Dearest Friends, Family and Generous Philanthropists,

You’d be forgiven for rolling your eyes at the sight of another fundraising page from me quite so soon after 2023’s efforts. So to compensate, I’ve stuck by the principles of the sequel and we’re going, if not better, then certainly BIGGER than my first effort last year with more runs, more locations and a commitment to complete no less than 100 Miles of competitive running in 2024. Plan as follows:

1. VICTORIA PARK HALF MARATHON (10th March): First off, the Graham Family will be returning to Victoria Park on the 10th March, where Mum will be racking up another half marathon, this time with me in the engine room while Ivo pushes Rosie Jones in preparation for their own Marathon effort. Fast becoming a family tradition this one. 13.1 Miles

2. BRIGHTON MARATHON (7th April): Next, a trip to the south coast for the first Marathon of the 100. No one to share the running of this one with, but high hopes of eclipsing whatever time Ivo set here in 2019, and enjoying some beach beers afterwards. 26.2 Miles

3. MAVERICK PEAKS 40K RACE (1st June): Only right to incorporate some ups and downs into this challenge, so will be investing in a pair of XT-6s, and using June to take them to their two spiritual homes, the trails of the Peak District and the fields of Somerset. Expect posts about Bakewell tarts and visiting Pemberley. 24.8 Miles

4. RICHMOND PARK HALF MARATHON (20th Oct): Probably the most shameless filler of the five, but Richmond Park will be a mighty fine warm-up for Athens and hoping to have a strong crew along for this one too. 13.1 Miles

5. ATHENS MARATHON (10th November): The last one. The first (ever) one! The Ancient History student in me will be in dreamland here, and this one is going to be particularly meaningful for many reasons. Although I imagine my persistent running chat both online and in person might have lost me every remaining friend/follower by then, there’s big plans for this that will likely warrant its own page. So look forward to being spammed with that early Christmas card. 26.2 Miles

Of course, setting aside the fact that clearly, I’ve enjoyed my first Marathon and am asking you to sponsor what is rapidly becoming a pastime – most of you will be familiar with the importance of MS Society’s brilliant and tireless work to consign the awful disease to the dustbin of history. It means a lot to me to be raising money for this great cause, and to be kicking off the 100 miles with my dearest Mum in tow. I’d be so grateful for any and all support, both in sponsorship or in cheers if you happen to be passing through any of the areas above on race day(s).

Love,

Ludo