Matt Gover: From the sofa to 5K in 4 weeks…

It’s already been a rollercoaster of excitement and nerves and it’s only March!! Since agreeing to this challenge, I have felt overwhelmed at what sometimes seems to be my metaphorical Everest.  However, the preparation and support from my colleagues in Chichester Wellbeing and Graham Jessop in particular, has given me some confidence.  I’ve always been one to start things and then just let them disappear by the wayside.  With this, I have no choice, the half-marathon is going to happen and I’m going to be in it.

The first morning was inevitably the hardest; however I had planned my route and my stops.  The stops knocked my confidence and that really bothered me.  But I just carried on, in some sort of blind ignorance.  It’s pertinent that my route is across Tangmere Airfield, one of the most important airbases in the battle of Britain.  The early sun and mist is a striking backdrop, it’s reminiscent of courage, bravery and a never say die attitude. 

Gradually the stops became two and then I challenged myself to no stops at all! When I achieved this, belief started to bubble up inside me.  I then challenged myself to two laps, which is 5K and added a playlist to my armoury.  The 5k was gruelling, but the sense of achievement was incredible.  I strongly advise to get out in the morning, around 6.15am, there’s usually only dog walkers around and the solitude and adrenaline afterwards sets you up for the rest of the day.

Believe me, if you’re reading this and you think you can’t do this, you can.  I used to think like you.