I will be taking part in the 37th MdS in April 2023 The MdS is a six-day ‘ultra-marathon’ or ‘ultra’ run over 150 to 156 miles (254 kms).

But it’s not just the distance that makes it the toughest footrace on the planet. The terrain is harsh – it will demand my respect. I will carry my pack, food and everything I need for the entire six day’s. I will bed down in communal tents sleeping eight in a bivouac village.

The long stage has become a legend in itself. I will run out in the Saharan morning, into the dusk and then the dark, and may not finish the 80+km (52 miles) until well into the next day.

BUT I want to compete in this inspirational event and raise money for an amazing charity and for a VERY Special little girl who truly inspires me daily!

Zoe my beautiful goddaughter has just turned 11 - Zoe and her twin brother Joe were born 16 weeks early. They were both very weak and sadly Joe died when he was only 2 days old. 

Zoe weighed only 1lb 8oz! She suffered lots of medical setbacks including a brain haemorrhage and numerous infections. She was only given a 30% chance of survival in those early weeks, but her tiny body fought on, and she grew stronger and stronger. After 4 months in hospital, she was allowed home weighing just over 4lb!

Zoe has Cerebral Palsy, learning difficulties and she is deaf. She is
physically disabled on the left side of her body, but she doesn’t let any of that stop her too much!! She takes on all sorts of challenges.

She dances in competitions with her dance school team and as she has recently performed in her first duet dance. 

She has recently competed a team swimathon and swam 1000 metres herself (50 lengths)!

She has completed a 5K race for life.

She has had a try at bouldering, kayaking, archery, football and she has recently taken up horse riding!!

There is no stopping this girl! She has so much strength and
determination and deals with her disabilities daily without complaining, constantly smiling and being the most awesome and inspiring young lady that constantly makes me PROUD! - This one is for YOU!

Scope have always supported Zoe and her family with advice and
information. The charity provided Zoe with a grant to part fund a specialised tricycle so that she can enjoy family bike rides and an iPad to help with her school homework (because she finds schoolwork really tough).

AND in everything I do "He Lives In Me" 

Stage 3 (25th April) it will be Paul's Birthday - We never got to celebrate his 37th - So racing in the 37th MdS Race will mean my mentor will be with me all the way! 💛