If you’d have suggested to me back in 2019 I’d be attempting a marathon I would have laughed my head off and said no way.

As some of you will know my fitness journey started during Covid lockdown thanks to the inspiration of Joe Wicks, originally doing PE with Joe and then progressing on to his 90 day challenge and the bodycoach app. It did not only benefit my physical health but my mental health too. Lately I’ve fallen off the exercise wagon and am now back at my unfittest since the pre-covid days. Despite this I was still motivated enough to enter the London Marathon ballot as I have done every year since it resumed after Covid.

Previously I’d only had rejection (and have subsequently walked 3 Virtual London Marathons instead) but this year fate had something different in store especially as it also coincides with me turning 50 in the same year! I am one of the (un)lucky (I still haven’t decided which is true, I’m both excited and scared at the prospect) 1% to get a spot. As such it only feels right to give this opportunity the dedication it deserves and to attempt to run it and so training is already underway.

I’ve chosen to raise money for Holt & District Dementia Support as Dementia is something that has impacted my family. I’ve seen first hand the impact it has on not only the person suffering but also the friends & family of the sufferer. The charity is run by volunteers and has supported a large number of families over the eleven years they have been around. All of their services are free to those that use them so any donations are very important. You can read more about the fabulous work they do here https://www.holtdementiasupport.org.uk/

Wish me luck (I’m gonna need it)

Clare x