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I've been given the opportunity to run in the London Marathon this year which will be my 3rd time. I am very happy to be competing in this event as it is such a personal thing for me. I first ran London in 2008, i didn't know what to expect and had no idea of what i was letting myself in for. I so very nearly dropped out as I got injured at the 15 mile mark, but managed to find the determination and will power to limp to the finish. It took me 7hrs 35mins at my first attempt, then I had to hobble around on crutches for 2 weeks.

My god how things have changed since my early days of running. I done the London Marathon again last year in 2013, this time I was very determined but also very apprehensive at the same time. I was certain that the same thing would happen to me as in 2008. But 5 years older and wiser, I was better prepared and was going for a time of 4hrs something. I just missed out and finished in 5hrs 9mins and I managed to win my battle mentally about the fear of getting injured again.

Since May 2013 I have joined an awesome running club, (Chineham Park Running Club) and have improved quite a bit due to their support, club nights and training programmes. My PB for a half marathon is 1hr 47mins, I done this in Sept last year at Braemar. My goal is to finish the marathon in 4hrs 30mins. This is a very personal challenge for me and I'm determined to beat it, there is just something about this event that keeps dragging me back for more, even though it nearly crippled me in 2008. I love it, I love my club and I love running, it is part of my life now and I dont think I could do without it. It has been a lifestyle change for me as well and I'm reaping the rewards of putting in the effort to train and get out there and run.

As part of my training plan, I am also doing Bramley 10 which is 10 miles on 16th Feb, then I'm doing the Reading Half Marathon on 2nd March and the Fleet Half Marathon on 16th March.

It's all been a bit last minute but I saw the opportunity to run the marathon and raise money for a great cause, so i went for it. If you can sponsor me and help me raise as much money as possible for my charity it would be very much appreciated not only by me, but the charity as well. It doesn't matter how small your donation is, it ALL helps and will go towards an awesome charity. I wouldn't be doing this without your help and support, so thanks to you all in helping me acheive my goals.

Ray.