Since during the covid pandemic where I was running every day or going to the gym I have really struggled to maintain an exercise routine whilst being at work.

There are number of reasons for this, lack of discipline, goals, relocations, health concerns & downright laziness. 

Anyway I can safely say I’m probably in the worst shape of my life. Now most might consider this an over the top reaction but if you know me you’ll know I have always had great stamina & determination aided by 20 years of competing at every sport you can think of at some point or another.

I have always been someone whose mental health aligns with the level of physical activity & output.

Hence why I have decided enough is enough, no more excuses - I have got 17 weeks to train, find that discipline, the runners high, achieve a challenging goal, get back in tune with my body & raise some money for a great cause.

While I will be raising money for MacMillan support, a fantastic organisation that has & will be a useful charity to many I know & love. This is also a by-product of a self development plan, in a cost of living crisis I do not think it’s fair to ask for people to donate just because I decided to complete a run so please feel no obligation, and those who do want to anything little would be great & appreciated.

This is about making a positive difference which will also keep me accountable & motivated to achieve this personal ambition of regaining my fitness, fire, resilience, great mental well being & achieving my first ever marathon but in typical Hayden style in my own unique way with an 8 hour ultra marathon - to cover as much as distance as possible!

I am also really excited to complete this at my local park from where I first grew up & went to school in Heaton Park, Manchester. As always thanks for all the love & support. Let’s go ❤️

This run will be in memory of my wonderful Nana Philomena Harrington & one of the most determined people I know who sadly passed away in 2019 after long battle with cancer. Also, to many close friends & family who have & are battling with cancer & the toll it takes on lives, Macmillan’s support & nurses offer incredible support so Macmillan is a great charity that can provide the help families need.

Thanks for supporting my fundraising. Macmillan gives people with cancer everything they’ve got. If you’re diagnosed, your worries are Macmillan’s worries. Macmillan’s doing whatever it takes. But without your help, Macmillan can’t support everyone who needs them.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe, JustGiving - they'll never sell them 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.