For some time I have wanted to partially follow in my father-in-laws footsteps and complete the Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town.  I say partially, as I am not sure I will do the race 10 plus times, once is enough ... for now. 

Two Oceans is a 56km (34.8m) Ultra Marathon set in the Cape, taking in views of both the Indian and the Atlantic Oceans, claiming to be the most beautifully set ultra marathon in the world.  I hope to be able to enjoy some of the scenery while enduring the challenge that comes with running that far in one day!

Completing this race is going to be a great reward for me, but I want to be able to use my achievement to make a difference to someone’s life.  And this is why I am getting in touch with you.

Poor parents in Africa often have to make hard choices.  Do they spend their tiny income on food or on their child's education?  Very often, it's the child's education that suffers.   Even in countries like Kenya where primary education is supposed to be free, the schools charge for books and equipment which parents have difficulty paying for. 

Missing school lays the foundation for a life of poverty.  This is one of the way Footsteps helps the children and families in Kenya.

One such child, Ambrose Ngugi, comes from a very poor family with 5 siblings.  So poor, that he and his two brothers decided to run away from home to look for food.  Ambrose was on the streets for years until this January when he was found by the Footsteps staff.  He was brought to the Sunshine Home where he is being well looked after.  Staff there have even managed to get him back into Primary School (Class 2). 

I would like to think that through my run, and your support, we will ensure that Ambrose not only completes Primary School, but is given the opportunity to then attend Secondary School.  For Ambrose, we can help build on a foundation for a life FREE from poverty.

 

Thank you so much for your help.  I will keep you all informed on how I got on with my challenge upon my return. 

 

Will Bisley