On Sunday 2nd October 2022, I will be running a marathon. It is my first marathon. The London Marathon.

It has been observed that I run like an old footballer trying to run. In football I can rely upon years of experience to read the game, whilst younger, fitter players 'do the running'. In reality, I am not a runner, more a 'shuffler'. Records will not be broken.

I am running the London Marathon for two reasons.

Firstly, it may be madness, delusion, misplaced courage or possibly a decision I live to regret, but, in my 60th year, I relish the challenge (#60isthenew40 ?). I want to get round the historic course in the greatest city in the world. 

Secondly, I want to raise much-needed funds for The Outward Bound Trust, a charity that inspires young people to defy their limitations so they become strong, resilient and curious, ready for the challenges of life. After restrictions on the Trust's full range of activities during the pandemic, donations will enable disadvantaged young people from across the UK to attend a life-changing residential course at an outdoor centre.

I was fortunate to attend an Outward Bound residential course in Cumbria in my early-twenties, whilst on a graduate development programme. The experience was seminal, teaching me a lot about myself, about leadership, and about the effectiveness (or dysfunction) of teams. 

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.