In late 2011, over 2 years ago, I set myself a challenge to complete 12 half marathons in 12
months and raise as much money for Cancer Research UK as I could in the process. I can't remember exactly how the idea came about but I don't regret it one bit!
Originally, I set a target of raising £1,000 which I thought for one person sounded about right. Little did I know I would end up with over £2,500 raised for a great cause. I can't thank my friends and family enough for donating their hard earned money to this cause, it has made it all worthwhile!
The challenge ended up lasting 24 months in total due to me suffering a broken foot coupled with ligament damage in July 2012 after 7 races. This was a major setback and after 2 operations and a steady recovery period to make sure nothing else went wrong, I was back running by April 2013 and by September 2013 I was back to near full fitness and I managed to finish the final 5 races by the end of the year. Was a tad emotional managing to complete it all!
The 12 races contained 2 in Europe, 3 PBs, a third placed finish, running around a motor racing track, an extra one being pushed round in a wheelchair, one with 1,700ft of climb and one dressed as Santa! A decent selection and I would like to thank all the race organisers for putting on some cracking races! Also thank you to all those who came and watched or ran the races with me, it was a huge help having you all there to support me :) I won't name everyone because the list would be too long!
I think that sums it up in a nutshell, I have thoroughly enjoyed it! I am now training for Brighton marathon in April with a view to work on my shorter speed in the rest of 2014. Keep an eye out for my next charity adventure though, it will be more bonkers than this one believe me!
James
