Well COVID put paid to my original plans of running VLM 2020. I ran the virtual around Rutland Water, and I've spent a few months on the injury bench too. But I'm back and my place got deferred thankfully to VLM 2021 in October. I'm so excited to finally be running in London, and I'm going to try my hardest to get another Good For Age time.

There is no charity other than a dog rescue that could honour these 2 amazing men more. Both animal lovers, I know they would totally approve. Plus I'm honoured to raise money for such a wonderful cause, as those who know me and my collection of rescues will realise. 

I've left the previous wording below as it tells the story of my journey.

I wasn't going to ask for sponsorship for this. However, recently I have lost my dad and my brother-in-law. I couldn't think of a better motivation to get around the course than the memory of two utterly fantastic, kind, influential and strong men. 

In truth I probably shouldn't be running it. Since qualifying for the marathon, I have done a lot more running, including a few ultra marathons, and am now paying the price and struggling with overuse syndrome, aches, pains, strains and niggles all over. I certainly won't be anywhere a PB for this marathon, but it will be a feat in itself just to get around it by crawling, walking, hopping, or whatever else it takes. I have thought very hard about deferring, but I am taking it a week at a time and will try my hardest to get around. 

However, I am now determined to raise money for the one cause that was always close to my dad's heart, and of which I know Billy would approve too. Dad adored his dogs, and was so kind and compassionate with all animals that I'm not surprised he supported Battersea. Billy was a real dog lover too, in particular having a number of rescue staffies that adored him. 

Any and every little will help me to get around this course by hook or by crook, and would have put a smile upon the face of the one biggest influence in my life - my dad, my hero; and also of my mate Billy, who always looked out for me. 

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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