So this is the first time I am doing anything like this but I feel the end goal will be worth all the effort and hard work I am putting into this.

People who know me know that in my 20s I was very inactive. Though I follow football with a passion you would never see me play as I classed myself as semi retired. Though I had a degree in sports science you would never see me in a gym.

But as you get older especially when the big dreaded 30 birthday came I decided to get myself in shape when meant exercising more regular and looking after myself. 1 year on from that decision and I feel physically much stronger than I did in my 20s.

So I decided to test myself physically and mentally I have decided to run my 1st ever Half Marathon in Liverpool in May. The Usman in his 20s would definitely be shocked at this decision.

I am running with my work colleagues but I am looking to to raise money for a cause very close to my heart and as a Muslim I feel I can contribute to this cause.

I am looking to raise money towards the construction on my local mosque in Oldham, Jamiat Al Hadith, or Ross Street Mosque Reg Charity No:1143183 . We are in the process of building a new mosque and the construction is Mashallah going extremely well however any donations towards this is greatly appreciated.

I will log how my progress weekly with the aim to be marathon ready by May 20th.

For Muslims the building of a masjid or contributing towards it is one of the most virtuous forms of Sadaqah Jariyah (continuous charity) that Allah SWT has bestowed upon us. Sadaqah Jariyah will benefit the donor long after they have left this world. We urge you to take up this opportunity to invest in your Aakhira (the Hereafter).

Thanks for your support on this great cause