Update - 

As every person I know is aware in March 2023, following a really successful training programme I suffered an issue with my back involving some discs issues which caused all sorts of complications with my hip and mostly my leg. Whilst I am up and about and most certainly through the worst of it, I am still in pain with a labrum tear which given the nature of the injury and the extent of pain and potential risk the specialist has advised of no running until such time as they can determine the route cause of numbness and loss of mobility in certain aspects or my leg.

At the end of April, based on this advice I made the difficult decision to withdraw from the race and instead, to honour all those who supported me, sponsored me, cheered me and helped me through the running I have chosen to cycle 450km from North Wales to SSAFA HQ in London over the same period of two days that the rest if the team will be running the Azores on an indoor bike. 

The rest of the story stays the same.................................

For those who know me, know that keeping fit and helping others allows me to keep my demons at bay and to help others achieve things they never thought possible. I also know I am one of the lucky ones. The horrors of war have resulted in broken families, lost lives and people living within a constant struggle of their own mind, often through the guilt of survival. As a proud veteran it is my duty to protect and support those who need help in finding peace and moving on, this charity has proved time and time again that it can be done.

On the 20th May 2022  a team of 25 Veterans from all seven Household Division regiments have committed to taking on the 110km ultra-marathon across the volcanic island of São Miguel in the Azores. 

Our team includes veterans from their 20's to 70's who collectively have accrued over 70 operational tours serving all over the world including Northern Ireland, Cyprus, Bosnia, Kosovo, Somalia, Iraq, Afghanistan and Ukraine and all at some have been willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice and lay down their life for the greater cause. Many of the team are still learning to overcome the impact of war and with the continued help of SSAFA, we will work together to provide the much needed support for our Armed Forces community. SSAFA have continued to provide lifelong support for members of the Armed Forces and their families since 1885. Last year alone they helped more than 79,500 people in need ranging from Second World War veterans to young men and women who have served in more recent conflicts, I was one of these people. 

The world is cruel and I know first hand that money is tight but £1 is more than enough in showing your support to me during what I imagine will be the hardest thing I have ever done. (not least I need to lose 10kg)

Diolch yn Fawr pawb , time to hit the road. (but now the bike)