I first ran the Great North Run half marathon in 1983 and last ran what is now the world's biggest half marathon in 2003 - then left the UK to live overseas in 2004. I first lived in Washington DC, emigrated to Australia, and currently live in Dayton Ohio. 

Living closer to my country of birth seemed the ideal chance to take part in the race again, albeit with a nagging old spinal injury sustained in military service, and weak ankles!  

Then, in July 2018, my childhood friend of 44 years, Helen, died way too soon of ovarian cancer. The first half marathon I ever ran, the Great North Run 1983, was with Helen.  

It seemed the ideal chance to honour her life by raising funds for charities in the three countries I have a special connection with: UK, USA and Australia. 

I hope you will feel able to support me in my endeavors and honour the memory of a beautiful lady, wife and mother, who will be so missed by those she left on earth. 

Thank you. Nicky