TWO members of a gym in Caerphilly are preparing to run their first marathon for the NSPCC.
Simon Blunsdon and Lianne Fletcher, who both attend the Creazione gym, will be taking on the London Marathon on Sunday, April 21.
Simon, a dad-of-two from Caerphilly, said he has wanted to run a marathon for a long time.
“It’s something that’s on the bucket list if you like,” Simon said.
“A marathon is an achievement and the London Marathon is the biggest marathon on the globe, it’s the one to do.
“The cream on the top is doing it for the NSPCC. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness, raise some funds and contribute to such a worthwhile cause.”
While the 47-year-old has run a half-marathon in 2006, this will be his biggest challenge yet.
It will also be a first marathon for Lianne, from Pontypridd, who has been training and taking part in fundraising activities alongside Simon.
Simon and Lianne are each aiming to raise £2,200 for the NSPCC and they have been holding a range of fundraising events, including a FitAthon at the Creazione gym on Saturday (March 9) which raised more than £400.
“I feel nervous about running in the London Marathon as it is my biggest challenge yet,” Lianne said.
“Mentally it will test me, although I believe in mind over matter. I have been running on and off for years but I have increased my training regime since signing up for the marathon.”
Jess Finnegan, Community Fundraising and Partnerships Manager at NSPCC Cymru, said, “Running a marathon takes a lot of dedication, and we are really grateful to Simon and Lianne for taking on this challenge in support of the NSPCC.
“We wish them and all those taking part in the event the best of luck.
“All money raised by people running for the NSPCC will go towards our vital work in preventing abuse and helping those affected to recover.”
To support Simon and Lianne visit: https://2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/simon-blunsdon
https://2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/lianne-fletcher
