Alex’s Tough Mudder for TBTC and CALM

Hi all,

My names Alex. I am 20 years old, currently studying on a year abroad placement in Valencia from Cardiff University. 

As some of you may know, I was not exactly the most fit pre lockdown. But over 12 months and a lot of hard work later; I have managed to lose over 3 stone and have taken-up a newfound passion in running. Attached is the beginning of my new "passion", running just 1.91km in 27 minutes in early March of 2020. My most recent run, on the treadmill (the gyms in Valencia are open), I managed to run 5km in 25 minutes. 

But this is all by-the-bye, but some context for some people who might have seen this and scoffed at the idea of me completing this. For those of you who are unfamiliar; the Tough Mudder is a mud and obstacle course run. Running this race with my two lifelong mates Charlie Bonser and Luis Griffin, we have chose the hardest option... a 10 mile run with 25 obstacles. Some step up from my longest yet being merely 5km, but a distance that will push all three of us to our limits.

Taking part in this run has been in my mind for some time now, the problem being I would actually have to get off the sofa and get my arse in shape if I was to complete it. Having begun this process (but by no means finished); this year seems like my best shot at finishing it yet. 

Although the thought of being healthy enough in four and a half months time to run a 10 mile race is brilliant, the cause behind it is what's most important for us lads. I believe Charlie and Luis will be running on behalf of their own charities too but I'd quite like to tell you a bit about the two of mine, which I hold close to my heart. 

Firstly, The Brain Tumour Charity. This one is very close to home with a relative of mine being diagnosed with a Medulloblastoma last summer, a type of brain tumour that is very common in children. I would like to raise money for the charity but also raise awareness of the awful impact this disease can cause. Even if I can just raise a little money; it will help fund the research for potential treatment and cures and also support all those who are tragically affected by any form of brain tumour. 

Secondly, CALM or Campaigning Against Living Miserably charity. Another charity held close to my heart. Everyday it is so hard being a suicide survivor for myself and my whole family. But we managed to stick together and fight through it. Sadly there are many suicide survivors who cannot and also those who see suicide as their only way out. These feelings are so rife at the moment if you just take a minute to analyse the statistics. This run is for all those people, to let them know there is light at the end of the tunnel and there will always be better days. 

This run will be difficult and physically demanding, but nowhere near what the poor children and adult sufferers of the awful reality of Brain Tumours or those who are living miserably will face on a day-to-day basis. They are the real heroes.

Any donations are greatly, greatly appreciated. I will cover the cost of the ticket off my own back to ensure the most money possible goes towards these two outstanding charities. Whatever money raised I will be splitting 50/50 between the two. If you would like to regular updates, let me know. If there is enough demand I will post regular updates on progress on my Facebook and Instagram (attached).

Thanks a lot for reading,

To Matt and Dad,
I love you a lot and this run is for you guys. My Facebook Instagram