So, it's 69 days and counting until I'll be in London about to try to run 26 and a bit miles - so I basically have just over 2.5 days per mile! How did I get to this point??

Running a marathon was always one of those things I said I would do before I turned 30 and, there I was a few weeks back, closer to 41 than to 40, not really any closer to doing it. Thanks to my generous employer National Grid, not only do I have a chance to take part in what everyone says is one of the best sporting events in the world, I get to run for a fantastic charity - The Outward Bound Trust.

With the easing of Covid-19 restrictions and a sense of normality having returned, most of us are now beginning to move on with our lives. Young people, however, are still reeling from the effects of the pandemic. Increasing instances of ill mental health in our classrooms, fragmented connections and missed opportunities, if not addressed, all point to a concerning future trajectory of poorer educational and employment outcomes and overall poorer wellbeing for our young people.

The OBT run courses to take participants on a journey of self-discovery. They leave the familiar behind and head to the wild hills, lakes and lochs. They take on adventures, overcome challenges and learn about leadership, teamwork and resilience. Often these experiences can be life changing.

I was lucky enough to participate in courses similar to those run by the OTB when I was younger (abseiling and gorge-scrambling in North Wales) and believe strongly in the 2 main OBT priority areas:

1. Building young people's connection with and concern for the natural environment

2. Supporting young people in their journey to and within employment

This is where we come in. The OBT never let financial need stand in the way of attendance and over 80% of attendees receive funding to come on courses. In return for any donations you are able to make (which NG kindly double), I will do everything I can to give you full value for your donation. Not only by taking the opportunity seriously and training like a man-possessed (see Strava feed), but also by trying to provide a bit of fun along the way. The highest single donation wins the right to shave (in person) my beard to whatever design they like ahead of the race and I'll also try to mark fundraising milestones with equally daft forfeits :-)

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.