It is with a heavy heart and great sadness to share that the race has been cancelled, and entry into the westbank has been projibited due to the Corona Virus. i will still be sending the money over - and i will be updated on how the money is spent. See updates below. i have pledged to be back next year for the race! (I am running liverpool marathon instead)

(Please note: i will be withdrawing donations on the 10th of March. This is due to the 10 day processing - so please do not donate after the 10th! thank you!)

Hello!

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I will be running the Palestine Freedom to Movement Marathon on March 27th 2020.

I have had the privilege to run in some beautiful places around the word; My running journey began about 6 and half years ago due to a major life transition (funny how the run helps with things like that!). To date I have ran 30 full marathons and 4 ultras (including a 100 miler). This race by far, will be the most epic and highly anticipated.

Why? Because this race embodies something which i feel very passionate about, and i feel it fits with my personal values down to a tee. That is, social justice, human rights, equality - and just doing what feels like the right thing to do! The race is the cause!! Also, the added fact that its set in such a historically cool place - Bethlehem!!

The PALESTINE MARATHON 's mission is to convey a different narrative to what we are used to. Its one about the lack of freedom of movement, and adding value to the Palestinian tourism sector, culture & economy – and of course highlighting the effect of the Israeli’s Occupation on Palestinians’ freedom of movement.

I have chosen to raise money for a charity called The Hebron International Resources Network (HIRN).

HIRN is based in the west Bank city of Hebron and is run on a purely voluntary basis by a group of dedicated Palestinians and internationals. The basic aim of the organisation is simple; to serve those most in need. The organisation specifically targets communities that are underserved by support from aid agencies and NGOs due a to their fragile and temporary status.

HIRN provides practical solutions for threatened communities in and around Hebron and Bethlehem. They build and equip schools and homes, support community enterprises and individuals, provide solar electricity and other needs that might otherwise force people to leave their villages.

This small charity was highligted to me by a good friend and colleague. She put me onto the race and actively goes out to Palestine to support and highlight the cause and plight of the Palestinian people.

She spoke of the amazing work and having first hand experience of HIRN‘s use of the funds donated to them.

That it goes directly to the people. Which is why this page is crowdfunded as the charity isn’t registered, but are known.

This for me, is even more of a pull factor in wanting to raise money for them - as i am quite skeptical about how the money is distributed within bigger charities (having worked for 2 in the past).

You can check them out at:

http://hebronresources.org/

and also on FB.

I will keep this page updated on my progress. Training starts officially from Dec. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Regardless of political views, religious beliefs , race or creed - one thing i do know, is that runners are a unique tribe. Our passion for the run is the bridge that binds us!! And its with this in mind that i humbly request that you donate as little or as much as you can.

Thank you & One universal love!

(One love refers to the universal love and respect expressed BY ALL people FOR ALL people, regardless of race, creed and colour!!)