On Saturday 13 June, I undertook a challenge to run between the two most iconic tennis venues in the country – The AELTC, Wimbledon and Devonshire Park, Eastbourne. The journey is 100km and I set myself 12 hours to complete it. I only decided to do the run a week before so had no time to train for it, but I was highly motivated to see it through.

I was running in support of 1 year-old Ottilie Rushby, who was diagnosed in May with a rare form of childhood cancer called neuroblastoma. She went to the GP for a routine check-up and her world was turned upside down. Ottie’s dad James is my cousin, best friend and lifetime Derbyshire doubles partner. Along with mum Sophie and brother Archie, the family have been so strong throughout this immensely difficult period.

Ottie is fighting for her life. She’s been given a 30-50% chance of survival. If she wins this first battle, she then has a 50% chance of future relapse with a lower survival rate second time. We’re all clinging to the hope that she can overturn the odds. It made my run feel like a walk in the park.

I completed the run in 11hr 45min, setting off early morning from Wimbledon and arriving early evening at Devonshire Park. I took a cross-country route, scrambling across fields, over stiles, through hedges, nettles, brambles, you name it! I also didn’t realise how many hills there are between London and Eastbourne! It was an adventure!!

While I was running, Ottie was getting hooked up to start her third round of chemo. Unbelievably, she continues to take it in her stride and remains upbeat. She’s an inspiration to us all. A FaceTime with her gave me the extra motivation to kick on to the finish line.

Jimmy and Sophie are aiming to raise £300k for Ottie to join a pioneering drugs trial in New York that will give her the best possible chance and also help kids in the future who are diagnosed with this wretched disease. I’m very grateful to all those who have already donated and humbled by everyone’s generosity. The link remains active for anyone still wishing to give to this live saving cause.

You can read about Ottie's story on the BBC website here.

You can listen to me speaking about the run on BBC Radio Derby here (scroll to 45 min).

Thank you,

Chris