Here we go... This will be neither my first nor, with any luck my last marathon, but it is a extremely special to be able to run in my adopted home town. Your sponsorship and support means the world to me, so thank you in advance  

I was introduced to the C&RT through Dan Ritsema, a senior waterway engineer and project manager from the Trust. In June 2013, GS sponsored a Community TeamWorks day to maintain a section of canal near Apsley. We painted lock gates, lay fresh gravel on the towpath and planted a small garden. I then discovered that within a quarter of a mile of my flat is the Paddington Arm, a 14 mile stretch of canal connecting Paddington Basin to the Grand Union Canal (which connects London to Birmingham). The canal is dotted with pubs & restaurants, with narrow boats meandering along and wildlife everywhere. The towpath adjacent to the canal is perfect for uninterrupted (and mercifully flat) training runs. Over the past few months, I have logged quite a few miles and quite a few hours along the canals and I can safely say that most people do not appreciate what an incredible asset we have right on our doorsteps. 

My training process has definitely been a bumpy one: two torn ankle ligaments in December 2013 (followed by a long hiatus from running), a fractured right radial arm bone and some sore muscles as my 6'6" frame got accustomed to long distance running. Having said that, I am still putting in 6 days a week of running/rowing/cycling/weights/Pilates(!) to prepare. The Altitude Centre has become a home away from home and The Sufferfest videos my new evening programming. One of my key tests will be the Chevron Houston Marathon on Jan 18th. 

My training plan:

http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/general/the-first-three-day-a-week-marathon-schedule/2493.html

https://www.altitudecentre.com/

Follow my progress:

http://www.strava.com/athletes/henry_howell