Zoe’s Double Marathon Challenge for Charity

On Monday I wrote to some of my local business requesting donations so that I may hold Christmas raffles in order to raise money for Sense.  To be honest, I wasn’t feeling too hopeful.  When I phoned Sainsburys for a contact name to write to, I was told rather directly not to bother, as they were inundated with charity requests at this time of year and they would not be able to help.

Well, much to my delight and suprise, I arrived home from work today to find a very kind and generous donation from MARKS AND SPENCER - Gift Vouchers to the value of £50!!!  This is a huge motivational boost and I am now preparing to approach more businesses.

I must say, I headed back out the door this evening with a huge smile on my face and ran one of my best training runs in a long time.  Thank you Marks & Spencer!  :o)

Oh my. What have I got myself into this time? I tried desperately to shake off the idea of a double marathon for charity, but to no avail. The harder I tried, the more determined my Mind became. And did my Mind first consult what the Body thought? No. So here I am.

Following the Edinburgh Marathon in May, I am embarrassed to admit that I spent the following four months avoiding any form of running or exercise altogether. I believe the quote ‘you have to forget your last marathon before you try another. Your mind can’t know what’s coming’ is so very true.

Now with the first of my double marathon only five months away, it is time to start recovering some level of fitness. For the past four weeks, I have been hitting the gym for three sessions a week. I plan to continue working on my base level fitness in the lead up to Christmas and I will begin a marathon training plan in the new year.  Wish me luck and lots of support - I will need it.

On the 26^th April 2009, I plan to run the full London Marathon in costume!!! YES, costume!

Please help me with your ideas and suggestions. They will all be given full consideration. Ultimately, the ideal costume will take into account the following:

• Light weight
• Keep the hands free for movement
• Avoid material that is too thick, so it is breathable
• Easy access to the mouth for drinking and sports gels
• Allow ease of movement between the thighs to avoid chaffing
• Can we incorporate Sense’s orange wig?

Please visit my Costume page to leave your suggestions.