Brighton Here We Come!

Today, after work, I'm heading to Brighton with my folks in readiness for the marathon on Sunday. I think I'm actually looking forward to it.

I've made it to this point with no injuries and having hit most of my training sessions. In my final week I've stuck to my plan and run 19 miles in my taper, which was harder to stick to than I expected; I found myself wanting to run more! But I've put my faith in my coach, planned my kit, playlist and fuel and am clinging to my mantras and thoughts that I hope will pull me through any tough parts. There's nothing left to do except get to the expo, rest up, eat sensibly and run the race.

We're making a bit of a long weekend of things due to my stubbornness in wanting to stay in a particular hotel and their refusal to accept bookings for less than three nights, despite doing so last year. If my parents are going to take time out to support me I want to try and make it as pleasant an experience as possible. My parents are excellent supporters, they really truly are. Other runners have commented. I'm thinking of hiring them out.

Dad in action at Bacchus Half

Alex isn't running this year but I'm hoping she will be able to make it down to cheer me on. that would be lovely. I know that there's a huge contingent from RMR taking part and a few other friends, at least one of whom I'll meet up with. I will be running alone though because I have a goal in mind. Actually I have two, an A goal and a B goal. I won't share them but I'm going to give it my best shot.

Alex after last year's Brighton Marathon

I know that Team bear will be supporting me from afar and any texts, tweets or Facebook messages of encouragement would be gratefully received! On the off chance you would like to track my progress on the day my number is 11443 and you can see how I'm getting on via the Brighton Marathon app.

Of course the reason I'm running Brighton is to raise money for Hospiscare, the charity that supported my Aunt and my family during her final weeks. She will be forefront of my thoughts on Sunday and if I break down in tears along the course it's likely to be because of that rather than injury. This will be my third marathon. You may think this means it won't be a challenge, especially as I've done an ultra as well, but I can assure you it will be because of the goals I have set myself. I didn't set myself targets for my previous marathons, they were challenge enough in themselves just to get round, but I'm determined to give this everything I have.

If you can spare a few quid I'd still be ever so grateful for a donation to the charity via my JustGiving page or text VRUN86 £X to 70070. Hospiscare really do such wonderful work and they're small enough that the money will really make a difference.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me so far, whether that be through donations, helping me with my training, words of encouragement or a shoulder to cry on in the difficult moments. Thank you.