Hi all,

After completing the Manchester Half Marathon in 2025, I’ve decided to go one step further and take on a full marathon in 2026, because what’s the point in doing things by half, eh?

In all seriousness, over the last year I’ve realised how important it is for me to have something positive to focus on. Running has helped clear my ridiculously overactive mind, given me structure, and pushed me towards meaningful goals. Training for the half marathon kept my feet on the ground and my mind out of the clouds last year, and I loved it (not so much the last 5k though!).

When it was over and I didn’t have a challenge ahead of me, I felt myself drifting again. So signing up for the Adidas Manchester Marathon felt like the right next step, keeping these runs local (for now!) but doubling the distance and the commitment.

I’m running in support of Mind, a leading mental health charity in England and Wales. For over 70 years, Mind has worked to ensure that no one facing a mental health problem has to do so alone. It’s a cause many of us can relate to. We’ve all had tough moments, and sometimes simply understanding ourselves better can make a huge difference. Mind provides support, information, campaigning and training to help people get the help they need.

If you’re able to donate, I’d be hugely grateful. Even £5 goes a long way and will help me reach my £400 target.

Thanks so much for the support.

Joe