Flora London Marathon 2008
With less than a month to go until the London Marathon, Radio 1 Producer Joe Harland clocked a personal best. Read all about in his latest blog here. Joe is running the Flora London Marathon for the Rainforest Foundation.
Meet us to cheer for Joe – and the Rainforest Foundation marathon team -- on Sunday 13 April at the Grapes Pub, 76 Narrow Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8BP. Nearest stations West Ferry DLR; Limehouse DLR.
We also caught up with two of the Rainforest Foundation’s other runners to see how their preparations were going.
For 26-year-old Vanessa Rogers, from Brixton, the London Marathon is a chance to see ‘what I’m made of’.
She said: "It was something that I always wanted to do. I think you have got to challenge yourself once in a while."
After a furious start – "three runs a week and cycling to work everyday" – Vanessa has slowed her training down slightly. But this means she can step up her fundraising. "I’m writing a big letter to bombard friends and family with."
And any advise for fellow runners? Be prepared to train hard, says Vanessa.
"You have to really want to do the marathon. People say it’s only 26 miles. But the training is a massive part. You have to dedicate 3 or 4 months of your life to it, week on week. You have to be prepared for mornings when you think ‘oh no not more running."
JustGiving
This year’s race will be Ian Scottings first marathon, and the 37-year-old from Sidcup is looking forward to the big day.
If only it he didn’t have to train during the coldest months of the year.
"It’s my first marathon. I’ve run 16 miles which was exhausting but I feel good and my pace is lifting. The thing with the London Marathon is that you have to train in the colder months, which is tough."
Ian’s girlfriend ran the marathon last year, and this year the couple are supporting eachother in their training and fundraising efforts.
"She asked me if I fancied it. I thought it’s for a good cause. I don’t like that the rainforest is being removed from our globe. And it’s also a good way to keep fit: two good reasons to sign up."
Ian’s fundraising is going well. "We had a gig in Charing Cross with a few DJs. I did a mulled wine event before Christmas, some cake baking at work and lots of friends and family are sponsoring me."
Ian recommends doing long runs on the weekend.
"It gives you the confidence and helps you get mentally ready. Don’t swig too much water, just sip. And make sure you have good trainers."
JustGiving
If you would like to take part in a run on behalf of the Rainforest Foundation, please look at the other options in our events section here.
