RACE DAY NEWS
The weather was warm and bright, with plenty of both sunshine and shade - ideal conditions for a road race. I think there must have been almost 30,000 people taking part. I started deliberately slowly and needed to watch carefully what other runners were doing, as some would swerve unexpectedly in front of me. After 2-3 kilometers I gradually increased my speed and was able to overtake many. By the middle of the race I had developed a good steady rhythm - and I chose someone ahead of me as a 'pacemaker,' - which worked well for a while.
For the last few kilometres I ran fairly strong, enjoying the atmosphere - and cheers from spectators along the way. I was not sure when the finish line would appear, but when it did I went 'all out' until I was over it. I then checked my watch and was delighted to see that I had achieved my target time of 74 minutes! A very big 'thank you' to all my sponsors.
This page will remain open for donations until one year after the race. Open Doors urgently need your help in 2010.
INITIAL 'LAUNCH'
Last year I took up running seriously - first by running a one mile event for Sport Relief - and subsequently ten miles for the Parkinson's Disease Society. I was diagnosed with PD five years ago; and currently have to take pills 5 or 6 times every day in order to be able to move normally!
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s the most efficient way to sponsor me: Open Doors With Brother Andrew will receive your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation. So please sponsor me today - and thank you for helping all those around the world who need our help so very, very much. Your contribution will be used where most needed. For an indication only, £10 could provide five Bibles for Chinese believers. Julian Hoerder
PS My next event will be The Great South Run on 25 October 2009 in Portsmouth (a ten mile road race) For more details please go to www.justgiving.com/julianoct25
