UPDATE
Joe: Thank you so much for your kindness. I have exceeded my wildest expectations, achieving more than I could have imagined accomplishing even in good health. The run was tremendously tough, far too long, but full of enthusiasm and northern encouragement. I finished my debut half marathon in 1:46:47, carried by your support and memories of David and Frank's distinctive laughter. Thank you.

Hello,

In September, Ross and I will be completing the previously postponed, globally renowned Half Marathon; The Great North Run, on behalf of the charity, Mind. We are keen to raise as much money as possible and push ourselves as far as we can for this event. Joe will be in fancy dress.

For those who don't know, Mind is a mental health charity, providing support and advice to individuals tackling mental health problems. The money we raise will allow mind to continue improving services, raising awareness and promoting understanding of mental illness and ultimately, provide more people with the support they need and respect they deserve.

So, thank you.

Joe: Having never managed 13.1 miles in a single outing before and with ongoing knee and Achilles niggles, the Great North Run seems a good place to start (and likely end) my half marathoning career alongside 57,000 other people. To take part in an event of this scale has been an ambition of mine since well before lockdown, to do it in fancy dress and make people smile along the way will be a bonus. With all the impossibly difficult, horrible situations faced, loss of loved ones and enforced social changes, at times I have really struggled, full of anxieties and self-doubt that have been rather debilitating. Running in memory of my godfather, David, and uncle, Frank, I hope to look suitably silly, have a laugh and convince myself that I can exceed my own expectations. I hope with your help, the money we raise for Mind will help families and individuals who find themselves struggling to get the right support.

Ross: My training for this event includes two half marathons a week + strength training most days the weeks leading up to the race. It's my intention to really push myself for this event. Distance running has become a staple in my life over the past few years and has really helped me maintain and balance my own mental health and life. Unfortunately many people really do struggle with that balance, and now more than ever, given the isolation we have all had to endure through 2020, the conversation about mental health has really opened up, supporting Mind and those in need with mental health issues and bringing awareness to mental health struggles is something I have always wanted to do and hopefully we can really help Mind make a difference for those who may not have strength to help themselves!

The Great North Run - Sunday 12 September 2021 - 13.1 miles

We genuinely appreciate any support, words of wisdom, sugary
sweets, and/or donations you’re able to offer us and Mind.

Thank you for your support, and costume recommendations.

Joe & Ross