To run or not to run

Training for a marathon is never easy, in fact quite often running the race itself can be far easier than executing a training plan. There are no shortcuts when it comes to building up strength, you have to go out and put in the mileage come rain or shine. I remember one Saturday morning going out on a long run in very cold icy conditions, when with about 2 miles to go the skies opened, the rain came and I was soaked to the skin, not much fun I can tell you.  I know some people say well it’s the taking part that counts so why train so hard and to a certain degree that’s true but actually the quality of the training determines the quality of the race. Why would you deliberately put yourself through the additional anguish that not training properly undoubtedly cause? My advice is to take it seriously and train, it will pay off.

Having said that training for me this time was difficult, so much so that three weeks ago I considered deferring my place until next year. I found out that the organisers in fact allow deferring (through injury or illness) up to a couple of days before race day. I decided to keep going and see how things progress. I have since ran the Reading half marathon and felt happy with the race, I ran well and completed the race in a fairly good time. So providing I’m able to keep on track with the remainder of the training, in five weeks’ time I will line up for my sixth London marathon. It’s exciting, it’s scary, it’s as daunting as ever but once I’ve done all I can to prepare, the rest I will leave to God.

This time I am running to raise funds to build a new parish centre to support the work of the benefice of St Nicholas Hedsor and St Mark’s Bourne End. Our vision is to have a facility that serves the community well and enables both churches to reach as many families in the area as possible.

If you feel inspired you can sponsor me here http://www.justgiving.com/RevJanetBinns1

I can do all things through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4 v 13.