The morning was extremely hot, but my pace was good up until the 11km mark. THEN I hit the dreaded sand, things got a lot harder as this was the start of the last 4km, which was in direct sunlight.  At 36 degrees before 9am it was really tough going, but the sight of Elle (who took these photos – thanks Elle) cheering me on at the beach (11 ½ Km mark) and the thought of all of your kind messages and generosity in donations kept me going.  I am pleased to say that I didn’t stop running for the whole race.

I am very happy to report that I finished in 1hr30m26s.

I must admit, I had a little moment and a tear when I crossed the line. It was a very overwhelming experience to run for a great cause and achieve something so challenging in memory of someone you love.

Thanks so much to you all for your kindness and generosity, it really is humbling and I am sure that the Countess of Brecknock will be very pleased too.  Through your generosity, we have raised £1000.

Thanks once again.

If you would still like to do so, it's not too late. This page will be active until the end of December.

A little bit of history: My mum, Ann, was a very warm, loving, generous and courageous lady. She loved life and never backed away from a challenge (those of you who knew her will agree with this I think!).  However, at the age of 45 on 10 January 1997, she lost her fight with cancer whilst being cared for at the Countess of Brecknock hospice,Andover, UK.

Now we are 10 years on and I feel the overwhelming need to do something 'challenging' to celebrate her life. I therefore have decided to run this race in her memory. At the same time I would like to try to raise much needed funds for the Countess of Brecknock hospice, where Mum received the most wonderful care during the last months of her life.

http://www.countessofbrecknockhospice.co.uk/

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page. Please dig deep and sponsor me online.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Countess of Brecknock Hospice Trust will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

So please sponsor me now!

Many thanks for your support.