Bloggers on the run

8 02 2008

So far this blog has focused on one of the 30,000 runners in this year’s London Marathon i.e. me! But there are lots of other jogger bloggers among this year field, many of whom are raising funds for various charities.

To visit their blogs click here with your left hand while reaching for your wallet with your right so that you can hand over what is left after you have sponsored me. And if you only look at one other blog make sure it is this one





The mental marathon

8 02 2008

Without doubt long distances are run mainly in the mind.

Your lungs are balloons the day after the party, your legs have long turned to lead, and your heart sounds like an alarm clock in a biscuit tin, but if your mind tells you to continue, you will.

Only when the mind gives up, is it all over.

I really can’t describe the dedication and sacrifice that go into running a marathon, mainly because I haven’t completed one yet, but I do know that nearly 30,000 people conquer the mental demons to complete the 26 mile challenge every year in London alone.

Only now do I really appreciate their achievements.

But even these heroics are put into perspective by the accomplishments of the late Jane Tomlinson who completed many sporting milestones including at least two marathons, several triathlons, and a 4,200 mile gruelling bike ride across America in a seven year period after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

And she raised nearly £2million for charity in the process.

To achieve this while literally dying is astounding. Her mental strength and indomitable spirit are truly humbling.