Before I start, the .22 miles is definitely worth noting!

Anyway, after signing up for the 2016 Birmingham half as a way to force myself in to getting fit, I have foolishly decided to enter the 2017 Birmingham Marathon AND Velo Birmingham (a 100 mile bike ride). These fall within 3 weeks of each other in September / October of next year and I thought this would be a good opportunity to try and raise some money for charity. It is worth noting that at the time of writing this, I haven't actually completed the Birmingham half and I am blissfully unaware of just how horrific a full marathon will be. It is also worth mentioning that I find running incredibly boring!

I have set myself an initial target of £ 2000, which might appear to be overly ambitious however I am confident that I can raise even more and this is partially inspired by recent events.

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to coach a group of young adults with varying disabilities at Warwick University. Prior to their arrival there was no indication of what disabilities they may have and I would readily admit that I was nervous at the prospect. Needless to say, there was no need to have been and I can genuinely look back at it as being one of the most rewarding and humbling experiences I have ever had. 

Collectively they were by far the most determined and appreciative bunch of people I have had the pleasure of being on a tennis court with. It was incredible to see how much they enjoyed the experience and how determined they were to achieve success in any set task. For me, it highlighted just how much we can take for granted in everyday life and the plethora of opportunities which are available to the majority of people. The Tennis Foundation aims to provide opportunities to those who perhaps wouldn't normally be able to play tennis, for a vast array of reasons, and I can only see that as a positive thing.

The determination of the group on that day makes me believe that it is possible to achieve anything should you set your mind to it and as such I hope to smash the initial target of £ 2000 especially given the fact I have over a year to do so!

I really hope that you are able to support me in doing this, I generally don't do these fundraising things but this is a fantastic charity and has amazing people such as Jordanne Whiley who, at the time of writing, is 5th in the ITF Wheelchair Tennis Rankings, as examples that anybody can play tennis and be successful.

Thank you!