OK, I completed the half marathon, but it was hard going.

My inexperience showed as I started too fast and by the time I had run 3 miles I was shattered and wanted to stop. But I kept on going and was still making decent progress until about the 10 mile mark where I started falling apart. I had shooting pains in my right hip, then got a cramp in my right calf. I was needing a drink and just wanted to sit down.

I summoned the last of my energy and even managed a sprint finish, crossing the line in 1 hour 52 minutes and 10 seconds. My target time was 2 hours so I'm pretty happy to beat that.

At the time I said 'never again', but now the legs have recovered and I can walk again I'm thinking maybe I could beat 1 hour 45 next year...

Thanks to all who sponsored me, we've raised a good bit of cash. For anyone else, it's not too late!

You can read more at my blog, http://www.randomrantsandotherstuff.blogspot.com/

 

Cheers for dropping in. Here's the deal.

I am running the Aviemore Highland Half Marathon on Sunday 18th October. This is my first attempt at a race of this length and I have been training hard for it. I am hoping to raise a bit of cash for the race's official charity at the same time so if you can spare a few quid that would be much appreciated.

I'm going to be running over 13 miles which is going to be hard, but if you can give a little donation that's an easy way to make a difference to someone less fortunate than us.

Yeah, yeah, another charity scrounger looking for some of your hard earned. I know, but think about it and if you can spare a pound or two that will make a difference.

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 and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please donate whatever you can afford now.