“Before accepting the challenge I had almost totally given up sports since COVID-19 and personally found running a very boring sport. However, once signing up for the Bath Half Marathon in 2023, I began to love every part of my training and journey.
“Running had all of a sudden started to feel so valuable to me as it started to rapidly improve my mental health. Additionally, I 
knew that any struggle I'd face during my training was irrelevant compared to the small amount of help I could provide to the children cared for by Charlton Farm by running for CHSW.
“I started my training in April and I attempted 5k every week and I also started going to the gym to build up my strength for the race ahead. As time went on, I managed to increase my weekend runs to 10k, which I felt extremely proud of. Not only this, I was able to increase my stamina in other ways such as participating in Taekwondo, which improved my overall fitness.
“Unfortunately my training for Bath Half took an unexpected turn when I badly sprained my ankle and was on crutches in the months leading up to the event. This really knocked my confidence and I was unsure of what the race had lined up for me.
“Despite the knock to my confidence I persevered with raising the sponsorship for the race. I did this by putting up posters in my school, publishing a video on my social media page, creating a ‘go fund me’ page, and I approached people face to face whilst also raising awareness of the incredible work CHSW does.
“On the day, as I passed the 8 mile mark, I felt my body went into shock and I could hardly move my legs. However, I persevered and I was able to finish the course in 2:21:08.
The feeling of relief was indescribable but I was proud to know I had achieved this to support local children and their families.
“Even though I will not be participating in Bath Half Marathon 2024 due to my Year 13 exams, I feel eager to run the next one and would definitely run for CHSW again. Whilst I am doing that, I will spur others on to come and have a go with me.”