I bought a new pair of running shoes (a striking blue Mizuno Wave Rider) in preparation for the marathon as well as to compensate for the grim weather I had to train in. Things went well at first, did a 20km run on a glorious Saturday afternoon along the west side of the beautiful Avon Gorge. Passed the magnificent Clifton Suspension Bridge and run almost up to Pill in the north. At the end, I had to run uphill from the bottom of the gorge up to the Suspension Bridge. This was just outside my body's limit and I suffered cramps on both calves as a result. Nevertheless, I was very satisfied with my progress post-run and thought at that time the London Marathon would be a piece of cake. Then Ai Seok, my lovely wife had to leave for 2 weeks on business to China, and I caught a cold. Training practically stopped for 2 week and that strong desire to run become non-existent. Questioning myself every few days - why oh why did I sign up for the marathon.
Of course, I have to remind myself, it was not for me but for a cause, for Bread & Life International and my beliefs we can do our little share of things to bless this beautiful world that we have inherited. In late April this year (1 week after the marathon) we will be travelling to Philippines to a little know village called San Isidro 45 mins by boat away from Delores the town which is 6 hours drive from Tacloban city. If you remember Tacloban was the city devastated by Typhoon Haiyan in Nov 2013. Conditions in San Isidro are basic and without any access with doctors and dentist. We will be helping out in 2 orphanages there and running medical and dental clinics there to support the orphanage and the folks there. Ps Fely runs the orphanages there and she has a remarkable story to tell. She fought and escape the hardship of her hometown, started a new life in Australia only to be led back to serve her people in this village which like many are in poverty, I am always inspired by such self-sacrificial acts to serve.
So I am loooking forward to resume my running and renewing my passion to help and serve people. I could do very much with your encouragement.
Drop me a line and even donate to my cause at: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/BLi_LM2017.
p.s. stay tuned for our LM2017 promotion video :)