Virtual Spine Day 23

Distance Covered Today – 17.94 miles

Total Distance covered – 236.25 miles

Virtual

Very cold and bright day

Todays 18 miles is a comparatively easy day to reach the demanding but glorious Cheviots. The section is split into two clear stages: heathery moor with wonderful views but bog hopping skills required; and forests which have no bogs but few views either. Today there were plenty of bogs to contend with after all the rain and melting snow of late. The moors come first and include some enchanting stretches of purple heather in September, shame its January. But time and again I see my feet disappear into that squelchy, murky underworld we call bog. So the dramatic change to stony forest track roads was welcome, at first. But the monotonous pounding takes its toll and has me hankering after the soft, comfortable swamps. I just cant be happy 🙂

Reality

Snow for the morning turning brighter and colder later in the day

Run 13.66 miles – So we thought it was going to be a bright sunny morning but instead we started the run in a blizzard. Was actually really good to run on the fresh snow that had landed as we set out over the back roads to Kelbrook, down to Earby then along the old railway line to the old Thornton Station. Then it was up to Thornton village, out to Greenberfield Locks and on into Barnoldswick. The worst part was the canal section but before we knew it we were back in Colne with over 13 miles done. Not quick but definitely enjoyable.

Walk 4.28 miles – Was expecting an easy afternoon after my run but Linda had other ideas. After a quick lunch, it was out with her for a 4-mile walk. Great for the challenge but tough on the legs.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider sponsoring me for this mammoth challenge, it’s for an incredible cause and inspired by an incredible person in Laura Nuttall 🙂

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gd20in20

My motivation for this has come from a very special person called Laura Nuttall who in late 2018, was diagnosed with terminal multiple brain tumours at the young age of 18. Her determination and positive attitude to not only live her life to the full but also to help others as an ambassador for the charity is just incredible and I’m proud to join the fight in whatever way I can. You can read Laura’s story at the following link. Please be generous and help this great charity to raise much-needed funds for researching a cure.

https://www.facebook.com/DoingItForLaura/

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We’re set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can’t wait.

Virtual Spine Day 23