Opening words of wisdom.  

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page!  Seriously, THANK YOU, but why have I set myself this ridiculous challenge?  Well to answer that million dollar question read on... 

Why I am doing this?

Well, I have reached an age where I am no longer as fit as I used to be and I am certainly not getting younger.  Running has been a passion throughout my life and I see a goal to aim for as a positive step towards a healthier and fitter future.  By entering a 1/2 Marathon I am looking to reignite that passion again.  Running has also been a physical and mental support for me, and as I am putting weight on, and we live in an ever increasingly stressful world, I see this as putting 'savings' into the bank for the future.

In all honesty I need to do something about my health for the family and this is an attempt to curb the onset of old age, infirmity and to be in a position to throw (hopefully) grand children around.  Why the 1/2 marathon, well I have never been a distance fan, short and sharp races were always preferred, but for me a ½ marathon is a good distance to aim for and one that I can spring board from to do that ever elusive full marathon.  One day maybe … one day.

Why Yorkshire Cancer Research?  

We live in a world where all around there is illness and loss, where families are broken apart by many awful diseases.  There are many worthy charities and people ho help others, but the scourge of cancer affects up all and is close to my heart.  By raising money for YCR, and raising YCR's awareness, we can make a difference to many lives.  Why YORKSHIRE Cancer Research (YCR) and not just Cancer Research.  Well Yorkshire has some of the highest incidents of particular cancers that come from its industrial heritage, more so than anywhere else in the UK and YCR do amazing work both in White Paper research (Tamoxifen) as well as supporting the people of Yorkshire from the effects of cancer.  As my family are from and in the area, investing here will positively lessen the chances of cancer affecting those that I love, but it also invests back into the county that I love and call home.  

Why JustGiving and fundraising?

Fundraising, because it is important to have a goal and do something good,  Why JustGiving?  Well it is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.  Also I didn't want to have to chase you up.  LOL