52 marathons @ 52

I have set  myself the challenge of running 52 marathons in 2014 starting in January. My aim being to raise as much money for the NSPCC as possible. This is following an inspirational exchange between myself and David Tait, a school rugby team mate. David suffered terribly at the hands of a pedophile. This led to a chain of events that nearly ended in him taking his own life. He was stopped in the nick of time on top of the cliffs at Beachy Head! Amazingly he found the strength to channel the negativity into a force for good and set about numerous challenges . I found out about his story purely by chance, surprised that I knew bloke on the telly on the Discovery channel one cold Sunday evening. 

He conquered Mount Everest on numerous occasions becoming one of the leading Mountaineers in the world and a shining torch for the NSPCC ,follow this link for David's story www.davidtait.com .

His story has led me to the question, what I can do to help? Particularly as I too suffered at the hands of one of these horrendous perverts at the age of twelve.  

David's story has inspired me to channel my horrible experiences into something positive too , thus my challenge has taken root. 

The irony is obvious. David and I both became big,strong aggressive rugby forwards who could very easily take care of ourselves, just but a few years after our horrible experiences.Unfortunately There weren't any efficient systems in place for victims in those days. Things have changed nowadays with the fantastic help of The NSPCC, thank goodness, but more help is always needed !

 As for my challenge I intend to run one marathon every week for a year . It sounds insane but the training has been going well and barring injury I will do it.  Back surgeon wasn't happy when I told him about this challenge but since starting training the back is immeasurably better! Back surgeon shmack surgeon! 

I have set up a Facebook page for news of each marathon and other information about the work of the NSPCC so have a browse from time to time page is called 52at52 in my page Nigel Bird

Logistically this is a bit of a challenge so initially I aim to run one organised marathon per month and three unsupported per month on my home patch, independently adjudicated , ice permitting. Should snow and ice cause issues then the old treadmill will be utilised . You'll be able to track me on the app 'Mapmyrun'. If you're interested you can download the app and track me live !

Suggestions  as to any other verification is welcome as are suggestions for fund raising mechanisms. For sponsorship ideas: you may like to sponsor me for a particular marathon,or sponsor me per marathon,or sponsor me for completing the challenge, any amount will be very gratefully received 

So now you have it, let's help the children who are too frightened to speak out for themselves ,

Many kind regards

Nigel 

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