In August last year I learned that my friend and mentor Val Edworthy had been diagnosed with cancer. She sadly passed away this March just 38 years of age leaving her husband Tom and two children. I owe so much to Val. There is no doubt in my mind that without her I would have quit teaching and left the career that has given me so much joy down the years. In her memory I have set myself the task of raising at least £1,000 by completing a number of challenges this summer.

-          On 27th May I competed in the 750m open water swim on the Olympic rowing course at Eton Dorney, finishing in 18:23. I then completed a timed 1.5km swim in the Highgate Ponds in 35:40.

-          On 16th June I completed the London to Brighton cycle ride in four and a half hours cycling time.

-          And on 8th September I completed the Run To The Beat half marathon in 1:55:38.

Any support you can give, either from the galleries, from your wallets, or simple encouragement will be gratefully received. Prior to this I had never ridden or run more than 10km, and only competed over 200m in the pool (in Year 7). I also hate general exercise and have a fear of open water!

In memory of Val, who showed me what can be done when you put your mind to it.

Ollie