After my last big run I felt like I wanted a bit of a change, and after doing a lot of bike-based training when I broke my wrist I figured a Duathlon might be fun!

It consists of a 10k run, followed by a 40k bike ride, followed by a 5k run. I've chosen an event which is completely flat and traffic free, running and cycling around Dorney Lakes, which was used for the Olympic rowing events - I figured this would be the most Ruthie-proof option for my first ever cycling event!

It's not going to be easy - I haven't cycled on an actual bike for years! - but I'm already 4 weeks into my training program and just acquired my first road bike, so I'm excited to get more familiar with riding as my training progresses.

I've decided to fundraise for the Ipswich Buddhist Centre who have been at the heart of my life for the last 15+years, and who are in the process of trying to buy a new centre. This will allow more people to come along and learn about Buddhism and meditation and maybe even transform theirs lives, in the same way my life has been transformed since coming across the Dharma.

I really appreciate any donations large or small, it all helps us to reach more people and that has a profound impact on the world.

Donating through JustGiving 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.