Once upon a time, (at the beginning of January), when investment banks existed and markets were digesting the impact of the August '07 liquidity crunch, a group of us decided it would be a "fantastic" idea to run the New York marathon in November 2nd for a charity called "Get Kids Going!" - a charity which provides sporting facilities and equipment for disabled children.

Roll forward the clock to the end of 3Q, and in an uncanny parallel to the world of investment banking, there were only two of us still standing - Marc (Boheim) and me. While we do not profess to have the same endurance or "quality" (in sporting terms that is) as Goldman or Morgan - (although if you want another parallel, Marc is probably more like Goldman and I am more like Morgan Stanley - although that's certainly pushing it a little...), we want to do our best to raise money for a good cause and are thus prepared to see this marathon through to its bitter and painful end.

We were planning to raise £10k, but like analysts' earnings forecasts, we have revised this down. We recognise that times are tough and markets in disarray - and we're certainly not banking on a Warren Buffett scale donation -  but every little helps - (£, $ or Euros).

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor us: Get Kids Going! 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.

Feel free to visit Get Kids Going! web page: http://www.getkidsgoing.com/homepage.html