Samantha Morris

This will be the toughest running challenge I have undertaken in my 11 years of running, but knowing I am raising funds to help disadvantaged children and young people is truly spurring me on during training. As a single mum to my now 17 year old son; I am fortunate that he has had a fantastic upbringing thanks to a fabulous support network. I know not every child has this and as the lyric of a song says 'I believe that children are our future'. If what I do helps some have a helping hand with this thing called life it makes every mile of training and the challenge itself worth it.

At present I have finished 57 marathons and ultras. Highlights for me are finally achieving a sub-5 time at the Chester Marathon - the third time of doing that race. Another highlight is completing Leeds Endure 24, a 24 hour race where you attempt to run as many 5 mile laps as you can; doing 15 which equates to 75 miles.

My training for this challenge began in August. Every month I am doing a personal challenge. In August I ran 10 consecutive 10k's, in September 10x15k's, October 10x20k's and November 10x25k's. In December I plan to run 5k a day before increasing mileage in January to March, then resting some in April before taking on the challenge in May.

I am not a fast runner at all. I just do it. I make up for speed by having a positive mindset that believes anything is possible, BUT I will have to work hard to achieve this. I have never been so determined to succeed at something and although I am excited and terrified in equal measure, I will give it my absolute all.

Experience

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