Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. Why am I fundraising...?

School Of Hard Knocks use sport to tackle unemployment, crime and health. They work with individuals to help them take responsibility and take positive steps forward in their lives. The charity offers a number of different programmes, each tailored to its audience and principal aims. The constant factor is the methodology – controlled confrontation, challenging activities and a constant affirmation of self-worth and motivation. I have seen first hand how programmes help people:
- Grow in confidence.
- Take personal responsibility for their lives and actions.
- Experience the value of teamwork and diversity.
- Learn the value of respect: both of others and of themselves.
- Realise their own potential.
- Reengage with employment or education.
The flagship course is a high-impact and extremely challenging eight weeks for those who are not in education, employment or training. The ultimate aim is to get participants back into work or further education and to equip them emotionally for the challenges of the workplace.

Like all course participants, I am looking to challenge myself. Once I stopped playing rugby, I wanted to do something to keep myself fit - I am terrible at squash & golf, and started running for 'fun'. As anyone that knows me, this is a big push for me...I am not really built for running (more comfort than speed these days!), and need a focus & a purpose - run for good!

Therefore, I am looking to run the equivalent of 10 marathons this year (in recognised runs only, not training!) & am looking for your support...every penny will go to the charity, and in particular support its work across Scotland, which has seen programmes run across the Central belt to a wide range of recipients. This has taken me a few weeks (2 months?!) to decide upon and am still not really enjoying the pain of the run, but, as we stress to participants on the courses, 'you cannot change who you are by staying the same', so here it is...

260 miles, to raise £1300...£5 per mile! There will be spot prizes at certain times, and competitions throughout the year. I have started small, with some Parkruns and a 12k,and have more runs planned for months throughout the year...I wold be so grateful for your support (& encouragement!)... 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.