16:49:18, 03/04/21
So far, my wife and I have signed up for two charity events taking place this year: the Pilgrims Way Challenge 2021 and the 2021 London Marathon.
Pilgrims Way Challenge 2021Join the popular Pilgrims Way Challenge and enjoy the rural beauty of one of England’s oldest and least-trodden national trails. Starting from the picturesque village of Wye, nestled in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, follow the Pilgrims Way, through the scenic Stour Valley, to the historic cathedral city of Canterbury. Along the way you’ll pass through ancient woodland, rolling fields and charming villages, as well as a few challenging climbs through the undulating geography of the Garden of England.
The event takes place on Saturday, 19th June and is limited to 800 participants. Three distances are on offer: 25km, 35km and 55km (we're doing the 55km). Entry costs £30 (£45 on the day) and includes various goodies including an official t-shirt that walkers are encouraged to wear on the day. Running is being permitted for the first time this year, so perhaps we'll try to jog the long final descent into Dover!
I've always said that I didn't want to take part in a mass event, but everything else about the Pilgrims Way Challenge was too tempting to miss!
Find out more here:
https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/event/pilgrims-way-challenge-2021/2021 London MarathonFollowing the huge success of last year's Virtual London Marathon, a virtual event is again taking place - this time alongside the actual, real life race on Sunday, 3rd October. Same day, same distance, different place.
My wife managed to get both of us places. She will be travelling to London for the race and will attempt to run the distance. I will be doing my own marathon route along the North Downs Way (as I did last year) and try to beat my previous time by running some descents! I should stress that it is entirely acceptable to run or walk the London Marathon in any combination!
For the virtual event, a phone app tracks your progress, provides a commentary (which can be muted!) and confirms your distance and time.
I understand that entries for both the London event and the virtual version sold out very quickly, but perhaps others here have managed to secure a place (I know at least one fellow member did the virtual event last year too).
Find out more here:
https://www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com/If anyone has signed up for or knows of any other long distance charity events taking place this year, please share the news...