Firstly, a big thank you to everyone who has backed me so far. As things stand, I’m at £2237, which is a massive boost.

How can it possibly be only 74 days? I’ve just realised when I started out there were 154 days to go, I’m now more than halfway to the event. That’s scary!

If you wish to sponsor me, you can do so here

So, how have I been getting on recently?

This week has been a major breakthrough in my training, as my actual running times are finally reflecting my progress. Increasing distances hasn’t been easy, but I’m amazed at how resilient the human body is. The week started with intervals, and I tackled them around Wragby. Despite a bit of rain, they felt comfortable, and I even saw my Aunt drive by for a quick hello, which was a great boost. Seeing familiar faces is uplifting, even though I prefer running alone. However, with my longest training run reaching 20 miles, I may need some company for part of it.

The second run of the week was a milestone. Since completing the Couch to 5K, I’ve seen 5K as my base distance, with breaking 30 minutes being a big moment before. Running from my house in Withcall means starting uphill, so I had given up on beating my personal best, which I’d set on a flat course in Wragby. That’s why my midweek run shocked me—I set a new PB. The first kilometre was a solid 5:46, but nothing extraordinary.

Then, as I hit the flatter Bluestone Heath Road, something clicked. My legs felt stronger than ever, and I clocked times of 5:11, 5:10, and 5:03. I wasn’t intentionally pushing myself, but as the run was only five miles, I kept up the pace. My final kilometre was a 5:01, leading to a 26:06 5K—an unexpected and thrilling achievement. If not for the initial hill, I might have broken 25 minutes, a dream I now know is achievable.

Saturday’s run was an entirely different challenge: 14 miles, the longest I’d ever attempted. With Lincoln playing at home, I needed an early start. By 8:30, I was dressed, stretched, and running in the murky morning fog. My route took me past Belmont Tower, through Benniworth, South Willingham, East Barkwith, and around the Torringtons before finishing in Wragby. I slightly underestimated the distance, so I had to add an extra loop through Wragby to reach my target.

I carried energy gels and Jelly Babies, planning to take a gel at 10K and another at 20K. However, I surprised myself by running the first 16K—ten miles—without stopping, despite encountering some tough hills. It’s incredible how quickly the body adapts. I only needed one gel at 16K, and then I ran smoothly to the finish in Wragby Market Place. I didn’t even feel breathless, and when I arrived at my dad’s to shower, he was shocked at how composed I looked despite being drenched in sweat.

Not only did I complete my longest run, but I also smashed personal bests: my fastest half marathon at 2:05:25, six minutes quicker than the previous week, plus my best 10-mile and 15K times. The experience was a confidence boost, though I know pacing in London will be crucial to avoid a painful second half.

I learned two key lessons: my feet ached despite good shoes, so I must prepare for race-day discomfort. Also, proper running shorts are essential—mine caused painful chafing, which led to an uncomfortable night on Saturday. As I write this, I’m awaiting the delivery of elite athlete running shorts! Proper shorts for a proper runner, something I never thought I’d write.