Marathon effort from Waterside man Ste

Reflecting on the run, Ste McClay said the Silverstone Half Marathon was probably one of the more difficult events he had taken part in, and not just due to do the 13.1-mile course either. He is now focused on the London Marathon and raising as much as he can for the cancer charity leukaemiaCARE.

“March 11 was the first hot day we have had this year, so many of the runners including myself found the heat, lack of wind and shelter difficult, having been training in much cooler weather,” said Ste.

“That said, the atmosphere was electric with everyone was boosting each others’ morale. However the feeling of elation on completing the course turned straight to nerves knowing the London marathon was double the distance.

“So, now another half marathon looms next Sunday, April 1, which is very much the final push before training starts to wind down before the big one. I initially cancelled this race due to a knee injury I picked up after the Silverstone Half Marathon, but as it seems to be okay after a two-week rest am ready for it,” he said.

As both of his parents died after battling cancer, Ste is running the marathons to raise awareness and money to help find a cure for the disease.

“I can’t stress enough the importance of leukaemiaCARE charity and the fantastic work they do for those affected by blood cancers and their families, every single penny is used well and truly makes a difference,” he said.

“I want to remember the difficult times my family have gone through, like many out there, while looking to the future,” the big-hearted Londonderry man said.

Those who want to help by making a donation can now also donate via text message. Simply text RRUN99 £amount to 70070 or visit Ste’s fundraising page at http://www.justgiving.com/stelondon2012 and donate there.

“This whole experience has been an eye opener for me and just goes to show that you can literally do anything you put your mind too. If I can do it, anyone can,” he said.