Hello! And thanks for visiting my page.

I will hand in my PhD thesis on May 29th. Two days later I will run the Edinburgh Marathon.

The wisdom of this time frame seems questionable as the day comes ever closer... But now I've told everyone, so there's no backing out now.

In brief, 3 reasons to sponsor me:

1. It is for a very good cause.

2. I will buy you a drink (maybe more than one).

3. You will have done your good deed for the day. This will make you smile :)

In more detail:

The good cause in question is CAMFED, a charity providing education for young women in Africa. It is a very valuable cause, I'm sure you would agree.

Since, at the end of May, I reach the end (finally!) of a free education in the UK, it seems apt to raise some money for those without the same opportunities. You can read more about CAMFED on their website (uk.camfed.org), which includes the FT article where I first heard about the charity.

As most of you know, I've been running for years and years. First at Warwick University where I was president of the Athletics & XC Club and then in Exeter, where I have run for Exeter University and was women's captain for the South West Road Runners. All of that seemed a long time ago when I started marathon training...

I have never run a marathon and after a back injury 5 years ago I didn't think I'd ever be able to. I've not run in a team for 5 years (ah, the loneliness of the long distance runner) and I've not even been in a race for 5 years.

I know that most of you are students, so I fully understand that funds may be tight. Don't worry if you are unable to sponsor me. Or if you can only spare 50p, that'll help. Just bear CAMFED in mind if you are looking to raise money for a charity in the future. Of course, I can accept cheques and cash too. Let me know if you'd prefer to donate that way.

Thanks again for taking the time -

Kate

(Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: CAMFED International gets 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.)