Update: It's now 2021 and after 2 rounds of marathon training I still haven't run it...thanks Covid! So here I am starting round 3 of marathon training - can I get 3 medals at the end? XD 

Original: It's official...I'm taking part in the London Marathon 2020?!...

Why are you running the London Marathon, I hear you ask...good question!  Two reasons...

Unfortunately, 4 years ago, my family lost a wonderful man, my uncle Stephen, to cancer. My uncle ran a couple of half marathons in his time, including The Great North Run and in previous years I ran a 10k in his memory as I thought it was a fitting tribute to him. For everyone that knows me...they will know that I'm a little bit competitive...therefore, running a half marathon in his memory wasn't an option, I had to take the chance to one up him and run the full marathon. I hope it will still make him proud, I miss him so much and I wish that he could be at the side lines cheering me on. 

I am also running it for an incredible cause. Over the past year and a bit, I've been lucky enough to be on the side lines of the last two London Marathons, cheering on our supporters, for the two charities I have worked for and it was beyond inspiring. I know I'm biased, because I'm lucky enough to work for them too, but ActionAid do an incredible job in supporting young women and girls in some of the world's poorest countries. They help prevent violence against women,  work towards eradicating period poverty and overall changing lives for good. I also work in the fundraising team, so thought I should have a go at putting my 'useful' fundraising tips and ideas to the test!

I have never undertaken anything quite as challenging as this before... 4 years ago I thought running 10K was hard. Therefore, I would be really really grateful for any donations, and definitely some huge support on the day - as I will 100% need it. I'm also running the Richmond Half Marathon on 15th September, which will give me only a small taste of what the London Marathon will be like - just run the half once more right? - easy!

Thank you so so much, lots of love Hannah xxxxx