At the start of the year, I set myself a New Year’s goal: to raise funds for CRY in memory of a young man who tragically passed away during my son’s university kayaking trip to the Alps. The impact of that loss remains with all those students, leaving a lasting impression.

With this motivation, I decided to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon. Prior to this, I had only ever run 10 kilometers once, the previous year, so this was a considerable step up. My aim was ambitious: to run the entire race without walking and to finish in under three hours. Throughout the cold and dark days of January, February and March, I trained alone. Winter running was tough, but I persisted, gradually increasing my distance and endurance with each session.

As race day approached, my nerves grew. However, on the morning itself, while travelling to the event, I found comfort in the company of others heading in the same direction, accompanied by their families. The event was extraordinary; the atmosphere was electric, and the support from the crowds was overwhelming. The experience was exhilarating and unforgettable.

I exceeded my expectations, raising a significant amount of money for CRY and completing the course in a time that was much faster than I had anticipated. Along the route, I was overcome with emotion, both laughing and crying as I absorbed the atmosphere and remembered the reasons behind my run. Seeing my family cheering for me at several points along the course added to such a memorable day.