I have a confession to make. I have now been running regularly for nearly five years and have not raised one single £ for charity. Yes, that's correct - despite having run two marathons, five half marathons and numerous 10k's, I have not once decided to use one of the things I love doing most of all to raise money for a good cause.

This seems even stranger given my fairly generous disposition, as well as the sheer number of charities that offer places for some of the world's greatest running events.

So why haven't I done anything? If I'm being honest, it's probably been down to fear – fear of failing to raise any money, fear of even asking for the money and above all, fear of failing to complete the challenge at all. I guess in many ways, I've always been a slightly selfish runner, preferring to simply concentrate on my training without any additional expectation and revenue raising pressures.

I'm delighted to say however, that following a short but persuasive conversation with Roger – Founder and Chief Executive of the Reasons Why Foundation - that's all change d. I've set aside these fears and have agreed to take part in the running leg of forthcoming Royal Windsor Triathlon alongside other supporters of the Foundation. Not only that but I'm combining my participation in next month's Brighton Marathon to help increase the fundraising potential.

This commitment has in some ways increased the pressure on me, however, it's also brought an even greater focus to my training and a clear sense that all those lonely miles and alcohol-free weeks will ultimately impact positively on someone else's life. That's a really powerful feeling and I can't wait to complete both events and raise as much money as possible. I still want to get the best time I can, but I recognise that my performance in either event is no longer the most important thing at stake.

Maybe I'm no longer such a selfish runner!

If you can please support our work and Olly's efforts by donating to his fundraiser.

For our 2019 Challenge we are doing the Royal Windsor Triathlon on Sunday 16th June.

Some of us are already training hard (and the rest of us are just about to start…) But we need your support. If you're feeling ambitious, there's still time to sign up to the Royal Windsor Triathlon and fundraise for us. Send us a message, sign up for updates here, and we'll help you get started!

If you don't think a triathlon is for you can still help. Please consider donating to some of the brave souls taking part and thus enable us to continue supporting people who've been through the criminal justice system. We'll be sharing stories and updates from all the triathlon participants on social media, so make sure you follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Below are a few testimonials from some of the people taking part. Please take a few minutes to read, share, and of course donate!

Louise & Sarah

Louise & Sarah have signed up to do the triathlon together - Louise is cycling and Sarah is running and swimming. They'll be training hard so please check out their story and donate here:
https://localgiving.org/fundrais…/Lou-n-Sar-Tri-for-Charity/

Florence

Florence has signed up to do the swimming part of the Royal Windsor Triathlon. It's going to be cold, wet, and very challenging. Florence has already started her intense training plan. Please read more and donate here:

https://localgiving.org/fundraising/swimming-at-the-windsor-triathlon/

Kathryn

Kathryn is our incredible Case Manager and has committed to doing the whole of the triathlon by herself. Kathryn has never run a triathlon before, so this is a seriously impressive undertaking. Please show her some support and donate here:

https://localgiving.org/fundraising/kat-1st-triathalon-for-therwf/