Jamie and I decided to run the first ever MK marathon over a few beers one evening. We felt that as born and bred MKers it's only fitting we should take part. 

I am sure we would have been joined in this insanity by my close friend Mark Stradling. But, devastatingly for all who knew him, Mark passed away six years ago aged just 26 from a sudden onset of acute Crohn's disease. As such, we would like to run this marathon and do something positive for other young people in memory of Mark. 

Rather than raise funds for the Crohn's and Colitus charity (which does great work) we would like to support a cause for which Mark was passionate about in life.

He loved watersports, particularly sailing, and was fortunate enough to learn to sail on large boats whilst at University. Both University and sailing as part of a team did wonders for Mark's self-confidence. We feel he would have liked to support others to learn to sail and improve themselves too. So after looking round for a charity we discovered The Cirdan Trust. (Named after the boat builder in Lord of the Rings - very fitting!) 

The Cirdan Trust specialises in enabling groups of young people, particularly those who are socially, physically or mentally disadvantaged, to experience the challenge and adventure of life at sea on large sailing vessels

We're not aiming for any world-record shattering times, or raising millions of pounds, we'd just like to finish in under 4.5 hours and make a small donation to a worthy charity in memory of a much missed friend.

Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page,

Paul and Jamie.

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