13 Half Marathons in 13 days in aid of Cardiac Risk in the Young

The 22nd May 2024 will mark the 13th anniversary of the passing of Emma, who passed away aged 16 in her sleep as a result of sudden cardiac arrest.

Emma was a beautiful and talented person. Her passion in life was hockey and I had the privilege of working with her for a number of years. Representing England, she scored a goal against Germany whilst competing in Valencia during the Easter holidays a few weeks prior to her death. She touched the lives of so many and is dearly missed.

Over the next 13 days, I will be taking on 13 half marathons (one a day) to raise much needed funds for the charity CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young). So, 13 days x 13.1 miles to mark the 13th anniversary.

Each day I will tackle a different route, covering at least 13.1 miles, including some established half marathon routes (such as the Royal Parks, London Landmarks, Battersea Park, Richmond Park and The Big half marathons), as well as some routes of my own. These have been designed to include some poignant locations, including St George's College, where Emma first learned to play hockey, Surbiton Hockey Club, with whom she enjoyed a hugely successful and all too brief playing career, Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre (home of England Hockey) and some familiar local rivals. Other routes will pass through the various locations used by my current club, London Wayfarers HC, to celebrate the many young people who participate in the sport today.

The plan is to try and run them all. However, after a fairly problem-free training year, two minor injuries and a bout of food poisoning derailed my training in April, so we will wait to see how it goes (and if walking is required at any point). Wish me luck.

Any/all donations, however small, would be hugely appreciated. THANK YOU!