Right lads and lasses...

This year I am embarking on something a little bit different. 

I spend a fair amount of time in the gym, lifting weights, boxing and keeping fit...I've been through some serious physical and mental challenges in the last few years, most notably a number of spinal surgeries which included a big metal cage being fitted to hold me together. I've worked really hard to get myself to a point where I'm back to normal and now I'm READY TO GO!!

I've got two very different challenges that I want to complete this year...

Challenge One!
Great North Run - It's something I have done before but never with a 'time' on it or trained properly. I'm not a 'runner' and have only ever completed it on a base level of fitness....I even ran it once with a knackered spine (one of my less than intelligent ideas). Want to be on my Charity GNR team (includes a FREE gym membership until Oct 31st) LET ME KNOW!

Challenge Two!
As some of you know, I've been training as a boxer on and off for a number of years - but haven't had the chance to compete in any capacity due to injury etc. So, with the support of my coaches at Marden ABC - and provided I can be matched and they are confident that I'll be fight ready - I am hoping to have at least a couple of bouts repping the best boxing club in Tyneside.

Along the way I'll be doing all the training, keeping you up to date with progress and I'll be chucking in some other random things that you can hopefully either join me in, or laugh at me while I break myself.

"WHY!???"

MONEY!
I work for the charity YMCA in North Shields. From the outside its a gym and a cafe, but its also a home for up to 36 young people aged between 16 and 25...who, without us, would be homeless. It is a training cafe and kitchen and provides so many vital youth work and outreach programmes across the borough - which as we all know have been cut so brutally in the last few years due to 'austerity measures.'
We are a lifeline to so many, one that literally transforms peoples lives.
It takes a LOT of money to keep the charity running...We become a family for so many of our young people and I want to show them that they have people in their "Family" who are willing to go the extra mile for them. 
http://www.ymcanorthtyneside.org/

I also want to raise some cash for Marden ABC...a home-grown boxing gym that provides a place for people to train, learn and grow together. It's run by Dean Preston and group of amazing volunteer coaches who dedicate their time and skillset to the sport and the young people it. They have been a complete lifeline for me over the years and are about to have some vital work done on their building...Hopefully I'll be able to give them some cash towards their renovations. 
https://www.facebook.com/mardenabc/

I want to raise £2000. 
I know it's a massive task, but I know we can do it. 

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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.