I used to think that marathon runners were crazy people. Now, after completing eight (or nine) myself, I KNOW they are crazy. Therefore I'm happy to admit I'm a little bit crazy too, but - hopefully - in a good way. My first marathon - Lochaber (nr Fort William in Scotland) took me 5 hours and 20 minutes to run in 2009. I might have been the last to finish that day. In 2012 I achieved my personal dream of completing a marathon in under 4 hours, by running Belfast City Marathon in 3 hours and 57 minutes. 

Marathons are not easy. My taking part in them hasn't changed that opinion one iota. Participation has acted merely to reinforce that view. Most of the marathons I've done have left me bruised, battered, and emotionally fragile for many days after. Other runners, with more natural ability than me, are broken by them. A lot of coaches think that 26.2 miles is probably 6.2 miles too far. A few people make them look effortless, but in private they will admit there is little that's 'fun' in running a marathon. I've always enjoyed challenges that take me out of comfort zone, and stretch me. I believe that we all need to do this to grow, and find our new personal limits. If we can do this while helping others, so much the better.

I've always wanted a shot at running the London Marathon. I'm delighted that Mosaic have given me the opportunity. This will be my first, and, quite possibly, last appearance on the start line there, so I want to make the most of it. I'm also thrilled that my wife Liz will be sharing the experience with me, on her first ever marathon distance event. We hope to run down the Mall, up to the finish line, hand in hand. Follow us, and see if we can make this dream a reality on April 24.