Story
26th April 2010
Well it didn't turn out to be as hot as forecast, but it was still very hot at times. The last 9 miles were awful and only the thought and challenge of my 4 hour target time, and not letting people down, kept me going. The fact that some people had promised to double their donations if I achieved it also helped.
So I made it in 3:57:17 after nearly deciding to walk a number of times towards the end. The crowd was fantastic and it was great to see the Whizz-Kidz kids cheering us on at mile 23.
I would really like to thank all of you for being so generous - from colleagues, through to competitors and advisors, friends and family. We will raise in excess of £40,000, which I will double up to £80,000.
The money will make a real difference to the charity, which is fairly small, but does incredible work in improving the lives of disabled children - they really are very, very appreciative.
So that's it for the Marathon! Maybe a triathlon next, but I'll have to learn to swim first...
Nick
15th April 2010
Well with 10 days to go, I have managed to get most of the required training completed.
It was no fun getting up and running four days a week in the cold and frost, but apart from a heavy cold which laid me low before Easter I'm feeling OK. I've managed the requisite 20-miler, and honestly can't envisage doing another 6, but they tell me the crowd will lift me - depends how delirious I am by then! A massive thanks to all of you who have sponsored me so far - your generosity has been tremendous and I am delighted to say that I have already passed my initial target of £20,000. Don't forget that I am matching all donations, so if you still want to donate, the charity will get twice that amount. I'll let you know how I get on after the 26th. Thanks Nick ~~~~16th February 2010
After a lifetime of playing football (around 1200 matches) and six knee operations (well balanced – three on each knee) I have decided to temporarily hang up my boots for the 4th time. My comeback is already planned for August. The reason for this is that I have been nagged into entering the London Marathon by my PA, Debbie, who thinks I need a fresh challenge – 26 miles of cobbled streets! Training has started and - apart from being knocked to the floor by a 5 year old on a bicycle whilst training in Melbourne - is going reasonably well. The proceeds are all going to a really good cause; Whizz Kids, a charity that gives disabled children and young people the independence to enjoy an active childhood by providing them with customised mobility equipment, training advice and life skills, which makes an immediate and life-changing difference to both their lives, and that of their families. It’s a great cause, and one that I’m proud to support. If you need any further incentive to give generously, please note that I will personally match all donations given.Thank you,
Nick