Last year I participated in the Yorkshire Marathon and it was such a great personal achievement crossing the finishing line that I could not stop smiling for a week after. Now I find myself doing it again this year. I owe a huge thank you to Paul Sigsworth who wrote me a training schedule last year and being an experienced Marathon runner (he was the 6th ever Brit who finished the 5 big Marathons, New York, London, Berlin, Chicago and Boston!!)  gave me lots of fantastic advice no book would be able to tell you. He even ran a short stretch next to me and his words of encouragement got me through those very painful last few miles. Sadly,  Paul lost his battle against cancer earlier this year after having raised thousands of pounds for charity himself. Paul was a truly inspirational friend and support to so many.

After months of training and finding the time between family, young children and work of course I feel ready for the big challenge ahead and l will give my very best this Sunday. If I see any of you I shall try to smile!! In case you are not sure whether it is me: I will be  wearing my York Knavesmire Harriers running vest which is black and yellow, bib number is 1527. I hope to raise money for St Leonard's hospice again this year. Thank you so much for your support.

Nicole Lovett (or Nicole Kessen at Elvington Medical Practice) 

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