ME.

Ex forces of 8 and half years.. many goals , dreams ambitions and regrets.... but it’s all about the next decision that matters. 27 years old from Shropshire now serving in the emergency services. Love being outdoors and accept being indoors.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to achieve a better state of mind , fitness , I want to motive others as well as gain motivation... I want to live the story I have in my head. I want to belong , have a sense of community... but most of all , I want to make friends.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Outdoors sports , more running , tabbing , visiting new locations and also setting outdoor sporting challenges.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Fan dance both summer and winter each year. Do the trident. I’d like to do a triathlon and also set a world record in some form of outdoor event.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise that I aim to better myself every single day moving forward. Thriving on the positives , and learn from the negatives.

ME.

At the end of 2016, I was getting older, feeling sluggish, and weighed-in at 16.25 stone. I made a decision in January 2017 to set some apparently-ridiculous goals and then go achieve them. Push myself to where I thought my limits lay - and then grit my teeth and push through those limits. It wasn't going to be easy. It wasn't meant to be. That's the point. And, hey, whilst I do this thing – whilst I go on this journey – I'd try to help others: Raise funds and awareness for a number of charities close to my heart.

All the while, I'd hoped to raise funds at each and every step along the journey for my selected charities, the Cancer Clinical Research Trust and the Hyper Acute Stroke Unit in Charing Cross Hospital – They are both great organisations, doing fantastic work, supporting the causes they relate to, and helping many many people fight the illnesses and diseases life throws at them.

Thank you to all who've inspired me to start this journey - and to those who've supported me (oft-times unbeknownst to themselves through their quiet encouragement) - and to now continue journey!

As I'll no doubt keep telling myself many times along the way - it won't be easy, life isn't - but it did seem like a good idea at the time!

During 2017, I completed 10 challenges…

- A1EE Mount Leinster TAB, February 2017
- Regents Park BHF 5km, March 2017
- Great Ireland Run 10km, April 2017
- ICHC 150ft Abseil, April 2017
- El Juanar-Istan 18km Mountain Hike, July 2017
- A1EE SF Endurance 17.5km TAB, July 2017
- Dingle Half-marathon, September 2017
- QUEST Achill Adventure Race, 31km, September 2017
- Tough Mudder Obstacle Race, 10 miles, London South, September 2017
- Construction Rocks, Scala London, October 2017

And so far in 2018 I’ve finished the following…

- Brixton 10km, January 2018
- Richmond Park Half-marathon, February 2018
- QUEST Kenmare 50km Adventure Race, March 2018
- Great Ireland Run 10km, April 2018
- BHF Tower of London 10k Run, May 2018
- Para’s 10 P-Coy Challenge, Colchester, May 2018
- AEE SF Endurance TAB Summer Fan Dance, Pen Y Fan, July 2018

Writing this just reminds me of the Old Me...The guy who couldn't run 2km way back when. As I've always said: If I can do it, ANYONE can. If I can inspire just one other person to push their own boundaries and achieve what they only imagined in their dreams, then I'm happy.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Past and recent events and the twisting path of life have led me to understand that, despite what occurs and despite the vagaries of life's slings and arrows, the only way to improve oneself, move forward, be a better person, is to do that: Keep moving forward and try to DO ones best to BE ones best. Learn from ones past; Take what has been the best and build on it; Push forward and honour those who've inspired me by keeping doing what I do and strive to do it better: Strive to be better. When down, the only way can be up. When done, the only way is to do. Pick oneself up and get on with it. The challenges are over, the way-marked route has come to an end, the trails lead upwards and onwards into unmarked territory. Lead or follow? Perhaps both. Be inspired and, in doing so, perhaps try to inspire. Be the best version of oneself one can be: Or try to. I have failed to be my best me. This does not make me a bad person: It just means I can try harder, I can be better. I will try. I will strive. And I may succeed. I may not. But the struggle continues.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

This is all, after all, about the resilience of the human spirit, and frankly along the way I've had some very serious doubts about my own intestinal-fortitude (guts), balls, and resilience, and my ability to single-handedly see the series of challenges through. I've questioned my motivation for starting down this road. I've question for what, why, and whom I've been attempting this nonsense so late in life. I've had the most amazing close personal support in getting this going and to keep going thus far.

A massive amount of soul-searching, questioning, and re-consideration as to whether I will continue. The future is always going to be uncertain and life will always throw curve-balls.

Inspiration for this adventure came from many sources and one reconsiders the whys and wherefors. All I can do is remember past words of encouragement and put the head down and keep on going.

Not least, because so many have encouraged and inspired me to do this. Not least, because so many have generously donated to the fantastic charities. And not least, because I said I would.

Failure is not an option, I realise.

And therefore, training continues...

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

Remainder of 2018:
Dingle Half-marathon
Quest 60km Achill Adventure Race

2019:
Winter Fan Dance
Triathlon
Quest 12 hour Adventure Race
IronMan 70.3

Plus some other "fun" stuff!

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To strive forward. And help. And be good. Be better. Be the best Alan I can be. The challenges continue. The path leads on wards, and the final chapters remain to be written. Going to keep going. Need to keep going. Show what can be done. Show what my best really looks like.

Be inspired - and in doing so - hopefully inspire.

Honour the promises made and live up to my own expectations: Live up to the faith and belief others have placed in me.

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

I’m a 49 year old Grimsby lad who’s never really followed the crowds. I’ve always led an active life , mainly in the outdoors, but I’ve also studied various combat sports for many years. I live a fairly minimalist life materialistic wise , but I’m a very wealthy man in friends, family and acquaintances, I travel and explore at every opportunity. I’ve lost people a few times, including my best mate losing his like due to an assault 4 years ago, when something like this happens, we tend to reassess our life’s, mostly for the better. Myself and close friends have done many endurance challenges for charity, including running the length of Hadrian's wall over 2 tough days. I’ll be taking part in tough endurance challenges until I can no longer run or walk, ill then find some other way to take part . I always try and inspire and introduce people to a different outlook on life, and I’ve made some lifelong friends. 

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To inspire, lead, follow, change, point the way, motivate.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Ever evolving.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

I have many challenges I intend to lead and also take part in this year.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I will be the best I can be, I will lead, support and change people’s outlook on life and what’s important,

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

Ex military Royal Signals (TA). Work in the construction industry. Love the great outdoors and supporting the military brother and sisterhood from what ever servcie. Grandad flew for Bomber Command as a flight engineer on Lancs and my dad served with Auxillary Fire Service. Love pushing myself out of my comfort zone to see how far I can go even though my mind is younger than my body. But hell you're only on the ground once. Apart from that love my family unit, drinking beer, pushing myself and my soul mate. Certa Cito.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

As far as my body and mind will take me.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

To be honest none at the mo.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

To do something well out my comfort zone (2020 that is).

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

You are your actions.

ME.

Ex forces. Enjoy trail running and events like the PARAS 10 . Always looking for a new challenge. Just enjoy anything to do with the outdoors.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

At my age just going the distance without quitting is my goal.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

To become a little fitter and challenge myself.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Just to keep going and challenging myself against my age and to be one step ahead than my mates . ' I've achieved this over the weekend ' Sitting there with a beer on a Sunday afternoon and feeling chuffed.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I lack self confidence. This has not been an issue in days gone bye. I always think people around me are so much better. I've had a few set backs in my life and I would like to reverse this in my mind. Even old blokes need role models and guidance in their lives to achieve potential and not feel 'Spat Out'. I WANT THIS TO CHANGE.

ME.

I’m over 50 but trying to be under 30. Got into tabbing in 2017 after too many years playing and working in rugby.

Love the tabbing community, I’m not ex military but served in the merchant navy as a marine engineer.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Staying young!

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Pushing my fitness and mental strength.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Longer and more challenging endurance events.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Putting one foot in front of the other and not dying (just yet).

ME.

So I life in Hampshire with my amazing wife & 4 young boys! Qualified NCFE Level 4 Bushcraft, Survival & Wilderness Living Skills Instructor & Mentor working for 'Survival School' throughout the UK.

I love Hill walking Carrying weight! 'Bergen phys' and wild camping with my oldest boy!

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I've struggled with my mental health for a while now and found that Running and Bergen weighted walking and climbing has really helped So I want to inspire others struggling with mental health issues to get out and walk or run anywhere...

I also want to achieve a 'Selection pass time' on the AEE Fan dance race of under 4 hours!

And complete as many weighted Endurance events as I can..

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

My diet.... Healthy body healthy mind! You are what you eat!

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

So as before I want to achieve a sub 4 hour selection pass time on the AEE Fan dance race!

Inspire others with mental health issues to get outside, run, walk, climb even if it's on the stairs!

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Achieve my 2020 goals!! To help others...

ME.

Hi I’m Angie! Born in Essex. Living in Essex, but spent 8 years living in Australia and New Zealand. I’m soon to turn 50 so trying to better myself. I’m a mum of two and I work in my local supermarket. Love running and hiking. Loves being in the country. Potters about in my garden as love nature and watching the birds.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To be better than I was yesterday, or at least try!

Learning to stay true to myself.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Trying to get fitter and stronger. Joining challenges to help achieve this.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

I had lots of races planned for 2020 but covid-19 put paid to most of that. But I am still out running and tabbing as and when I can. Working to get stronger.

My race goal is to do a 100 mile challenge. 🤞 2021 is my year!

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Baby steps can reach great goals, so I’m never giving up! I also want to continue supporting all I know, and others on groups to achieve their goals! Working together can push you further than you thought possible.

ME.

At the start of this year I’ve been living a healthier lifestyle for some time. Coming out of a burnout in 2015 I’ve decided I needed a lifestyle change. So I began working to lose excess weight I was around 212 lbs at the time and not able to run 1.5 mile. At the time of writing this I’m much fitter than I was back then, yet I don’t feel I’m on top of my game yet. That became a reality when I found out I was way over my head in the 2018 Woodhouse route, regardless of conditions I wasn’t fit enough to deal with that route.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

This year I’d like to become a faster runner, get and feel fitter and give my mind the body it deserves. A lot of work went into strengthening me mentally over the last years, now it’s time to tighten the nut of the physical aspect.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Asking myself the question, what will I do this year to become a better version of me? Doing what I love doing the most. Running and participating in endurance events. Every bit of training will be done outside. Whether this is running or bodyweight training, it’s done outside. Rain, storm, hail, snow, locusts….done outside. Also, to become what I need to be a daily lifestyle change is needed. Being more mindful what I eat and drink. Fueling my body with the right stuff to have it do what needs being done.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

The plan for 2018 is as follows, I’ve signed up for a number of events this year. So far this is the line-up:

Hulten (NL) Run ‘n Gun - Winter Edition
Colchester Paras’10
Summer Fan Dance Double Tap (meaning doing the Fan Dance TAB on both Saturday and Sunday)
Hulten (NL) Run ‘n Gun - Summer Edition
Catterick Paras’10
Winter Fan Dance ’19 Double Tap (Woodhouse)

The last one not 2018 obviously….true, but it will be the test to see if all the training was enough. Plus maybe a number of local running events which I may do loadbearing or CF (clean fatigue). I’m looking to earn new personal bests on each event and move off the performance plateau I’m on right now. That means Sub 2:30 time for both Paras’10s and Sub 6 hour Fan Dance. Keeping in mind that the Saturday Fan Dance this summer is the inaugural FD for my wife and I’ll be right by her side speed will of lesser importance. I’m looking to be a fitter, faster and leaner version of the guy that woke up on New Year's Day by the end of this year.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

The mettle will meet the mettle in 2019 where I will hopefully get my Winter Fan Dance Woodhouse route revenge and this time go home with that coveted patch. The moral backbone of all of this consists of simple things, a healthy combination of a bit of banter and peer pressure from those that have the same mission as me. Understanding that alone you will go fast…together you will go further. There’s a couple of top athletes among them, these guys don’t intimidate me….they inspire me. That’s what I’m looking to do to, not intimidate or badger those around me with carpetbombings of social media updates. It’s not about “hey take a look at me running”. Hopefully the bug will bite you too and I’ll be running outside with you someday. Also I’m raising funds for the two charities I hold dearly, ABF the Soldier’s Charity and Support Our Paras. Helping reaching the original goal of the 100 Peaks Challenge.

ME.

Riding the ups and downs of life. Trying to learn what makes us tick. Keeping my hand held out to help others up and on to their values.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Sweat lots, laugh more. Learn a shedload. Keep my heart open. Every day incrementally better.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Incremental daily habits. Program minimum. Gold, silver and bronze standard.

100% mentality. If today I've only got 70%, how can I squeeze everything out of that 70?

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Squat marathon (done)

Burpee ladder

Rokman Gurkha challenge

Battle Miles Series

Rat Race Man v Mountain (postponed to 2021)

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Keep on keeping on. May not be pretty but still moving.

ME.

A Shropshire lad who loves being out and about in the countryside pushing myself to my limits.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To strive to be a better person in all aspects,physically and mentally and be involved with like minded individuals who have a love of tabbing ,trail running and distance events.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Giving up drinking which has had a detrimental effect on my life in many ways, exercising more to be able to participate in events.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Event goals for 2020 is a fan dance,paras 10,my first half marathon and to do some 10k loaded trail runs.

To take part in some black sheep events to build me up for the Wooler marathon, loaded which I failed to complete last year.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To promote tabbing and endurance events wherever possible and encourage others to take part.

To raise as much for charity as i can when competing in events.

ME.

Veteran of 16 years, married 18 years to a wonderful woman. Survivor of bowl cancer and lover of Mountains and the great outdoors in general.

Just getting fit again after the Big “C”.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

After beating the dreaded Big “C” my aim is to complete the fan dance in 2022.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Fitness, diet and lifestyle. Drink more water!

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

Paras 10 Arnhem this month, Ben Nevis later in the year and the Fan in 2022.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Tell my head I am not 20 and still in the military and recovered from a severe illness, but will still give maximum effort in every goal I set myself!

ME.

Not yet 50, Full time health care assistant .Started running at 40, could once do 25/30 miles, albeit badly. Lost fitness due to a reoccurring injury and being tired from work.

@cherylsp_ (tw)

Runtoexploremore (fb)

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Fitness, strength, endurance.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Eating better , drinking less, Hiking more, Doing weights.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

To reestablish running (have an ongoing ankle injury) or to become a good fastpacker. To cover 20/30/50 miles. Quicker and easier.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To keep going

ME.

Back in 2019 after a few jokes from my young nieces about my belly size. I decided to get on the scales and was shocked to find that I weighed at least 20stone, I don’t know exactly how much I weighed as they where only rated for 20stone. So I thought I need to do something about this and become a better role model for them. A work colleague suggested starting running, I have never been athletic and had never run. So in May 2019 we went for a run, to start with I couldn’t run for more than 1 minute straight. Recently I just completed a 16km run the furthest I have gone so far.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

A fitter and thinner me. Eventually I want to get my running distance up to a half marathon.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I am changing what I eat and more importantly how much. I am becoming more active as my job is desk based, I have started walking again as well as running.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

Mainly virtual events at the moment but the first is to complete 650miles running/walking in a year. Take on a few of the conqueror events but only logging the miles running. Once again do the ABF Operation Bletchley events in July already signed up for Cairo(30miles) but intended to add the Paris(100miles)once the first is complete. Then in October my first real event since the start of the pandemic Run Silverstone to see if I can beat my 10km time from 2019.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I am now 49 so to complete a half marathon by or in my 50 year.

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

I’ve been running since 2009, I started doing 10k mud runs then got into trail running, I’ve entered various races over the years including 10k half and full marathons and lately entered into the world of ultra running with finishing 2 100 milers in 2020.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to keep on running and going beyond expectations.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I train even harder and eat healthy.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

More longer races and multi day Ultra’s.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise that I’ll complete dead water multi day ultra.

ME.

In 2016 I was completing some research in mental toughness and recruiting participants. A tweet from Karl and that is when things got interesting! As a result of this tweet I started a part time PhD at Nottingham Trent University in Psychological Resilience in Extreme Environments which gave me the honour and privilege to undertake some research on resilience with the 100 Peaks Challenge Team.  This was a truly amazing experience and something that will stay with me for ever. I met some inspirational people doing great things in unbelievable locations. This experience ignited something inside me. Something that was already there. The ethos of the 100 Peaks resonated with me and is something I try to live by. I believe in hard work, in extending my comfort zone, pushing boundaries so that I am always learning and improving. I took a lot from being able to research the Challenge Team. The first was a desire to #GetOutside more. Second, was to push the boundaries of what I am currently capable of. So, after chatting with James Nicholson around the 100 Peaks camp he planted the seed that completing the Paras10 was possible. So, to practice what I preach (so to speak!) from a resilience perspective and to push myself I signed up and completed the Paras10 in September 17. This was another great experience. It was brutal but the hard work to train for it was worth it. I left everything on the course and was happy with my performance. Within 48 hours I was thinking about returning in 2018. I think Scott from Challenge Team said to me the once you start Tabbing it becomes addictive and I think he is right!     

My background is in sport psychology and sport coaching. I work in elite sport and in higher education at various institutions and I have my own sport psychology consultancy. From my experiences of working with and supporting high achievers I wrote and self-published my own book entitled the Journey on my musings around success and maximising performance. I was told it was difficult to publish a book so I went off and did it anywhere! It is amazing how much of the 100 Peaks ethos is embedded in journey to success.

I am originally from Burnley and now live in Sheffield with my good wife and my daughter. Sheffield is an ideal place to get out and be outside.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

For 2018 I am planning of returning to Paras10 in September with a specific target in mind that is going to push me, but it is achievable. With a friend of mine we are planning a mini adventure running from north Sheffield to Edale in the Peaks and then back again. I also plan to take part in the Black Sheep marathon in June. There will be other races and events being added!
 

ME.

Love of pushing myself, adrenaline junky.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I have done the Fan Dance twice and 10 + Paras 10’s and want to add to the list a Black Sheep Marathon.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Hopefully showing you can do anything if you try.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Continue with Paras 10’s and hopefully get to complete the Black sheep Marathon and Parachute with The Red Devil’s.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Finish everything I start.

ME.

I've always trained. Always over ate. Always beat myself up about things. Always want to do better.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Just to be the best version of Me.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Actually asking advise instead of trying to push through alone. Started listening to my body with a better diet

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

Got goals to achieve and times to set. Get a bit of self belief back.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I will be a better version of me and won't keep fighting the demons. I will win and believe.

ME.

I’m a former soldier, with the Airborne units, I teach self defence and I have recently joined the Gone Tabbing group. And never thought I would say this but enjoy the Tabbing. As its pleasure not pain as it was in the Army. I’m doing the Colchester Para 10 in May for Macmillan nurses And the Fan dance in May , over 32 years since I did the Fan dance. So looking forward to that. I’m 62 now so it will all be interesting, hopefully I’m going to help out the AEE staff in the future as I will be using my Motorhome , I will have a chat with them when I’m there. So see you guys soon 🏃🏼‍♀️☘️

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

The Para 10. Colchester. And the Fan dance this year.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I’m now Tabbing again, never thought I would ever do this lol. I’ve scratched up on my map reading again. It will be great to see the Brecon Beacons again.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

More of getting in the hills and hopefully helping out with RV s etc .

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To get at a good level of fitness and I’m now teaching Life and well-being at work, and I’m a Mental health first aider. So to improve on all of these things .

ME.

I am originally from Yorkshire, I'm a veterinary nurse and currently living in Suffolk with my husband Eddie. He introduced me to tabbing last year and I really enjoy being out in the countryside or in the hills. I completed the Summer Fan Dance last year (2019) CF and found it hard, exciting and emotional - especially at the finish when we were met by some of the guys from Gone Tabbing. I love meeting everyone and we use our motorhome as an R V point for refreshments and social.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Having done the Fan Dance and Catterick para's 10, I'd like to do Colchester para's 10 and Beauty and the Beast.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I am trying to change my life style to become fitter and better able to complete various challenges.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

I am currently doing the Eiger challenge. I plan to do Beauty and the Beast in April, Colchester para's 10 in May and possibly the walk across Wales in June. Then Eddie and I are hosting our own social/ tabbing event in July.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise to keep myself as fit and active as I can so I can continue exploring new areas - either tabbing or walking.

ME.

I'm Faz, I served as a Combat Medic in the British Army. I left in 2013 after being diagnosed with PTSD. After a few years of trying to battle my demons I attempted suicide In 2017. I was only stopped due to the quick reactions of a Police Armed Response Team.I realised at that point I had been given another chance really turn my life around and get the help I desperately needed. As part of my recovery, physically pushing myself as far as I can has helped me fight some demons.... The fight is daily, but I am now winning.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to inspire military veterans struggling to cope with poor mental health, fighting demons and generally transitioning back into civilian life to engage with services that will help them. I want others to see that pushing yourself to your body's limits also helps mentally to overcome huge hurdles.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I am going to get outside more. I am going to prioritise my days so that each decision I make is beneficial to my health. I am going to eat better, train harder, spend my time with friends and family. I am also going to remember the brothers and sisters who didn't make it home from war

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

My plan for this 2019 is to increase the miles I am able to run and tab.

Mountain marathon 
Mountain ultra
Black Sheep Marathon 
50 miles 
75 miles 
100 miles

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise myself that I will always keep moving. In whatever that might be. I will never stop improving. I will always be there for others. I will be happy and make others happy. I will do this for those that are no longer with me. My brothers and sisters I served with.

ME.

Happiest when I’m in the hills whatever the weather.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Increase my fitness before this years Cateran Yomp.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I would like to get out more.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

I have already taken part in the Cateran Yomp twice, completing gold and silver. Would love to take part in the Fan Dance.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To complete The Fan Dance.

ME.

Self employed Electrician, into walking/hiking/tabbing, also into target shooting.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to achieve the best person I can be, to help people who need a little push.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Cutting down on alcohol, trying to eat more healthier, getting more fitness in, and trying to enjoy life a bit more other than just working.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Plans for 2020, Paras10 Colchester and Catterick, hopefully the Fan Dance, and some Blacksheep Events.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To help others, and to get in shape mentally and physically for forth coming events, and to enjoy life.

ME.

Just over 13 years service in the British Infantry (RGJ) and left in 1999 so yeah I'm getting old now. After leaving the Army I started to become a fat civvy so started doing parkrun which then led to me competing for GB Age Groups in Duathlon racing at 2 European & 2 World Championships and then qualified for another Europeans until I had a complete breakdown at the end of 2018.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Finished with the fast events and looking to get more into the endurance events and slow down a little and not give up completely. I'm hoping to get back to where I love being (out in the hills) with like minded people who can help me on this journey and make a few new friends.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

A complete change of pace, event type and dragging myself out of my current comfort zone.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

The plan for 2020 is just to survive it and after not running at all in 2019 really to get back and complete 1000 miles in the year (20 miles left to go) and now start prepping for 2021 Winter Fan Dance CF and then Summer Fan Dance Load Bearing for charity (Once we were Soldiers).

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I will commit to my training and I aim to achieve as close to 3 hours as possible on the Summer Fan Dance and not be shit!

ME.

Ex forces, left the army with a lot more baggage than I intended to have.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To sort my head out and give my wife the life she deserves.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Attending combat stress and opening up boxes in my head that I’ve closed for a long time.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

To get my ducks in line.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To be all that I want to be

ME.

I have been involved on and off with endurance events since 2017, I have previous experience of tabbing and night navigation in a previous life so this is a case of prior knowledge fitting in with my current mindset and lifestyle. It also helps maintain my fitness for my employment role in which I do an advanced bleep test.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Build on knowledge base and improve fitness on the hills, train and associate with like minded people and help people where I can. In other words not only be a black sheep but be the alpha. I am in a leadership role and is developing mindset.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Increased fitness, setting goals and hitting the goals I set for myself during lockdown. Completed marathons, half marathons, ultra 100km. Will working around injuries.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

I am hitting my targets at the moment achieving good marathon times. I have an ultra marathon coming up, to keep improving.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise I will continue along the golden road, setting and achieving targets.

ME.

I have been tabbing since my early twenties, but took it up again more recently with AEE. During lockdown it focused my efforts on training and I started getting involved with EOF and be a black sheep to improve my efforts. I have mainly been looking at long distance events and have completed successfully in many including paras 10, lone wolf 100 and numerous others. My training takes place on my local trails and mountains but hope to increase this further afield.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

There are several events including the fan dance, black sheep marathons that I hope to be able to travel too increasing my times and overall fitness.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

My taking on a tier program to gauge my level as well training with others I can improve my base level and see where I am at.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

Keep improving and building on gains, train with like minded people. Competing and continuing improvement by setting my own bar.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Continue to build on the gains and learn from failures.

ME.

I’m a 40 year old infantry veteran of 3 tours in Afghanistan I’ve had my fair share of coping issues which I’ve helped by a fitness and family orientated lifestyle and a bloody good wife. Raced road cycling in time trials and hill climbs. Love getting out in the hills on foot with living in the peaks so close too kinder scout etc it’s a must when you’re blessed with that on your doorstep. Still enjoy shooting with my son. I also run and enjoy kickboxing with my son, I have two dogs which keep me sane 😂

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Have a proper go at kick boxing and do a fight. Hopefully aiming too save up too do a freefall course.Biggest achievement is I want too see my son grow up and be the man I hope he will and that he maintains the standards and beliefs he has from me as he has a big heart I love him very much.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

The changes I am making is too be lots more positive myself and too start too help others struggling like I have by teaching them and helping them adapt and overcome from the things I’ve learnt from my mistakes after becoming a civilian.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Do fan dance series. Have a proper kick boxing bout. Improve on myself as there’s always room too improve.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise I will aim too achieve being a more mentally strong person again after suffering mentally and to see my son be a positive strong kind person like he is doing and behold the values we have as a family.

AWAITING BIO.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

2 laps of Winter Nuts Challenge obstacle course race (OCR)
4 laps of Nuclear Oblivion OCR
The Unknown
OCR World Championships

ME.

Some 9 years ago In my mid 40s I realised that I didn't want to be overweight, always tired, unmotivated and probably heading for an early heart attack. fortunately I was inspired to get fit though a meeting with Floyd Woodrow, ex SAS. That started my long term attendance at the local British Military Fitness sessions, then entering trail running events, a couple of Paras 10, a half marathon and a winter Fan Dance in 2016. I backed off during 2017 due to some niggly injuries and have now set my sights on getting back on track in 2018.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

My aim for 2018 is to significantly improve my personal bests for the Paras 10 (2hrs 6min) and Half Marathon (2hrs 2mins), I'm setting my sights on 1 hour 54 minutes for both. Why 54? Because that's how old I am this year.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

I'm getting back to BMF more frequently and adding more clean fatigue running in to improve endurance and speed. I'm also working on a gym based strengthening programme. One of the local BMF centres is also running 8 weeks of Combat Fitness Test sessions during March & April which will be great TABing practice. Along the way I've entered a 10K Trail run in March, local 8mile Fun Run in June, multiple 10k's at the Thunder Run 24hours in July and then I can concentrate on Paras 10 at Catterick in Sept, followed by the Birmingham Half in Oct. If all goes well, another crack at the winter Fan dance in 2019 is in my thoughts. I have a need to better my Winter 2016 time. AND of course with the surname Lamb, being a black sheep is almost instinctive! 
 

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

When I did my first 5km in 2012 after being challenged to join an event through work by a colleague. I thought it would be a breeze when they added to that challenge that it need to be done within 30 minutes. Being an ex-serviceman, I scoffed at the thought of this taking anywhere near 30 minutes. However, when it come round to doing the 5km run, I set off at a heroic pace that I was used to from about 10 years before and subsequently finished the race throwing up my breakfast, but successfully coming through at 29:58 after a big push by my colleagues at the end to hit target! That was my wake-up call! From that moment I looked to change my lifestyle, do more exercise and generally get fitter. So later on that year we set a challenge to train for and entered the London to Brighton bike ride. That led to doing an OCR Wolf Run and joining the local park run, with the intention to do more OCRs in 2014. However, having the bit between by teeth, I entered the ballot for VMLM and to my surprise managed to get a place! So all training changed, the bike was hung up, the short distances were changed to a marathon training plan and the year of OCRs were put on hold by fear of being injured, although I did do a few like Judgement day and a few Brutal Run’s! The Marathon training lead to meeting a fantastic bunch of running heroes for ‘The Soldiers Charity’ and completing the London Marathon with a sub 4hr target in 3:52. This lead to further challenges like Paras 10, Fan Dance, London to Brighton Ultra, Bournmouth Marathon, Brecon to Cardiff half ultra and being involved with the 100 peaks charity events and training days to continue to promote the good work of ‘The Soldiers Charity’ but to also keep up the training to support the 100 peaks challenge in 2017. The 100 peaks ‘Brothers in Arms’ Wales section was my final event in 2017. I joined the team on the hills around Snowdon and Brecon, scaling up at a relentless pass around 16 peaks in 3 days, while supporting the transition of the true athletes on their cycle days.That was an epic few years and in my head I told myself I had had enough and needed a rest! That’s when things went downhill with regards to training, events and my mind set. I hadn’t done much if any training and avoided events from July 2017; I over indulged at Christmas and New Year, eating and drinking what I wanted and as a consequence my fitness dropped considerably, I gained over a stone in weight and my mind set was full of negative thoughts towards life in general, training and lacking motivation.
So at the end of January 2018; I had a few words with myself and joined British Military Fitness (BMF) to try and re vitalise my mind and body; that’s when Karl popped up with BE A BLACKSHEEP and having the opportunity to be involved with likeminded people again seemed like a life saver….The journey begins.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I’m going to concentrate on a single event ‘The South Coast Challenge’ and try to sort my head out in terms of having positive mental attitude! I’m going to do better at this event, than I did in the London to Brighton and finish within 15hrs. I will lose a few pounds more and hit my target weight of 68kg and tone up for my family holiday in August… Simple as that!

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Watch what I’m eating, I still need to shift a few pounds! Get back into eating the food I need for a healthy lifestyle and that fuels my goals. Attend a minimum of 2 BMF sessions a week and include more running in my training, while setting a training plan too. Overcome mental challenges and use the support around me to succeed, while being supportive to others myself.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

I may add some events, but at the moment The South Coast Challenge is all I’m signing up for initially.

Cranleigh Trail Marathon 2018 - Sunday 13th May 2018

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Be more motivated and motivating, as I was before 2017!

ME.

Retired Soldier, Cadet leader, D of E Coordinator, Pastoral Tutor, Cub Leader, School Governor, Vice Chairman of Local RBL, Mountain Bike Leader, Marathon runner, cyclists, walker, husband father , son. Occasionally there is some down time. But to get Me time, I get up and run before the family wake up, and then shower and go to work. Those early hours of running keep me fit , physically and mentally, by giving me time to banish the demons. I always say I will stop trying hard things when I grow up, 3 years from 50 this hasn't happened.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I am enjoying half marathons at the moment, but I am signed up for the Brighton full next April, and I want to do sub 4 after that who now's, apart from trekking the fish river canyon (Namibia) in 2020.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?: I need to change my nutrition and be slightly more scientific in my training, at 47 doing the squaddie thing of running balls out is still producing results, but the recovery is getting harder.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

Manchester half October 18
Brighton marathon April 19
Black sheep marathon June 2019

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Improve my nutrition and achieve a sub 4 marathon by the end of 2019.

ME.

Old punk. Love the outdoors, trail running, hills, books, maps, vinyl and anything analogue. Hate road running, texting, social media, computers etc. Loner, outsider…black sheep of my family in every way. Until the middle of last year I l had lived constantly with the black dog for about 25 years. After years of saying no to medication I finally succumbed and it has changed my life so much for the better.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

“..to be the best version of me..” as KR suggested. And do the things I want to do now, not put them off until never. The clock is ticking, but right now I’m lucky enough to be fit & healthy so need to make the most of it while I can. One criteria for becoming a black sheep is getting out of your comfort zone and running does that to me – I never find it easy, and the longer I run for the harder it gets, so I want to find out how far I can go.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I want to become 'a runner', and I want to do Ultras. Have done marathons, FD, Paras 10, 5ks, 10ks etc etc but still don’t think of myself as a runner - I’m just blagging it. I want to understand what I am doing and be a bit more scientific (but only a bit) in terms of prep, nutrition, hydration, navigation, training, pace times etc. May even buy some new, proper, kit. I am also binning ‘Load bearing’ and just going CF now. I know that’s not very hardcore but I’m a “bit scrawny” according to my wife and lugging a huge weight around (my Bergen not my wife) is killing my back.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

Train like a b*****d: Running, conditioning, Pilates. at least 1000 miles on trails. To return to the Woodhouse and actually finish it (managed to do 20 miles on it last time and still DNF…..work that one out! clue – I did go past trig 642 twice..)
To do the Suffolk Coastal Ultra in October
To do the Pilgrims Way Ultra (both days) in Feb 2019

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Just that I will get to the start line of these races, that's difficult enough. And then see what happens after that.

ME.

Back in January 2017 I took on my first Fan Dance! Not happy with my finishing time I entered myself into summer Fan Dance (Black Edition). 7 days before the event my mum passed away, I didn't feel I could pull out of the event because I had sponsor money for the 100 Peaks pledged if I completed the race. I was happy just to complete it that weekend but I knew I could have pushed myself bit harder. So I entered P COY Fan Dance. I Felt good through out the race and still had a bit left in the legs, but again deep down knew I should have pushed a bit harder. I then entered 2018 winter Fan Dance (Trident). The conditions that weekend were horrendous but all the training I had been doing on the weekends since the summer put me in a good place mentally and physically, pushing myself through that weekend was hard in those conditions! I Kept telling myself Failure is not an option and one thing that stuck with me throughout 2017 was the 100Peaks motto #dontbeshit and I didn’t want to be shit, I kept pushing through and finished 6th overall in the Trident that weekend with some pretty good times on the 3 Stages.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

To be a quicker, fitter and stronger runner/tabber.

Events I’m entering this year:

Summer Fan Dance (Trident)

P COY Fan Dance

Snowdon Marathon

Dragons Back

Ans I'm joinning fellow Black Sheep Tracy Purnell on her '40 at 40' and hoping to do the Brecon Beacons 10 Peaks and couple of others which are still in early stages of planning.

ME.

Hi I’m John, I’m 47 and live in Kent.

I have a keen interest in endurance events with a military theme.

I have just started Tabbing and have a keen interest in UKSF Fitness training and mindset.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I would like to achieve life goals, as i have lost myself over the last few years due to family & work etc. I would like to complete events like the Para10, The Fan dance and other endurance events.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I have been working hard on changes to my fitness, health and my mindset.

I have a list of goals I would like to achieve and I am making changes to my lifestyle and thinking to conquer these.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

I will complete the Para10 event in Colchester 2020.

I aim to attend the Fan dance winter event in 2021.

I aim to attend Black sheep events in 2021.

I have a keen interest in UKSF training and aim to attend some events in 2021.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise myself to be the best I can be and to give all my goals and challenges 100% of my time and effort to complete the most challenging events of my life.

ME.

In the words of a friend "I'm just a bawbag"
Trying to be the best I can be at life.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to find the limits of my mind and break them!! To that end I have come up with a challenge that on the face of it is beyond me, the goal is to build myself up physically and mentally until I can succeed, break that barrier and set a new level.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I train in the gym twice a week and walk/tab on the weekend. I'm going to scale back the circuit training and will focus on stair climbing and hill walking. My self imposed challenge is a marathon of hill reps up the nastiest hill in the peak district "Jacobs ladder". This will be hellish of that I'm sure.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

Easter will be my third crack at the World Coal Carrying Championship.
June Endure 24 - a 24hour relay race of as many 5mile laps as we can manage, I will be aided and abetted by 3 other black sheep on this one.
July Summer Fan Dance Woodhouse Route.
August Murder Mile - 2 mile hill race, 1mile up and 1mile back down.
September Paras'10 Catterick.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I will finish the Black Sheep Marathon and all my other events for no other reason than it will improve me as a person and hopefully make me a more rounded human being.

ME.

After being reasonably sporty, but nothing special, as a young man I found myself pushing 18 and a half stone in my early forties. Stress eating and poor diet after long working hours, coupled with too little exercise, were the main causes. Inspired by others, including members of the Black Sheep flock, I discovered tabbing (and started to run again). Completed my first load bearing Fan Dance in Summer 2018 followed by my first sub qualification-time Catterick Paras 10 in the September. Two weeks later my life turned inside out as my wife and I received a call from our wonderful daughter, 21 at Uni, to say she had experienced a funny turn which we soon found out was a bleed on her brain. In the days and weeks that followed she had numerous 'life saving' procedures and operations but, after a period of hope, sadly passed away.

NOVEMBER 2019 UPDATE:

"Having completed my 2019 goals (not the fastest but managed to get around) setting myself up for a big push next year - doing 20 in 2020, or words to that effect!

Want to complete 10 marathons - entered 3 city events (Manchester, Edinburgh and York/Yorkshire) and 7 trail (the Hardmoors 26.2 series in North Yorkshire).

Doing the 2 Paras 10 events and 6 Fan Dances through AEE and TSFE (2 Load bearing singles in the winter and 2 combos, Gemini and Black Edition, in the summer).

Biggest goal to complete the Black Sheep Beast in April. If I don't manage to get through the Stairway to Heaven in June (20 reps is a lot!) intrigued to see what the 'Dog Eat Dog' has in store in August?

Although I've come to realise that nothing will repair the void I'm experiencing after losing my wonderful girl, I hope that I can at least honour her memory by trying to make the most of every single day and being brave enough to push to my limits."

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

(As of April 13th 2019 - six months since my daughter passed) I want to find a way to, once again, love and value life. I want to learn to co-exist with the demons in my head and make my wife and son proud. I want to find motivation, optimism and self-belief emerging from the abyss. I want to honour and preserve the memory of our wonderful daughter in the hope that the story of her life and her legacy can bring comfort and purpose to others experiencing similar circumstances to ourselves.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I am going to rediscover a 'can-do' attitude. I intend to get my arse out of bed earlier on a morning before work to get my training back up to at least 40+ miles a week (running, tabbing and/or long distance hiking). I know I will still end up eating shite and drinking too much on occasions but at least I will burn it off.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

I plan to complete the Paras 10 at Colchester and Catterick (my eighth and ninth of these events). I plan to complete the Wharfedale 3 Peaks, the YOMP and the load-bearing Fan Dance Double Tap in July. I plan to participate in Black Sheep Events and complete at least the Black Sheep Half Marathon in June. Before this all happened my biggest aim for 2019 was to complete the LDWA 100. Although too late for this year I will endeavour to build back up to that or a similar event in 2020 or beyond.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To honour and preserve the memory and legacy of Cerys Elizabeth O'Boyle. To find the courage to once again live, love, laugh and roar. To find the mental strength to be the best version of me. To uphold and exemplify the core values of the Black Sheep Flock.

ME.

In 2012 I suddenly found myself weighing 12 stone at only 5ft 3inches tall, I was severely depressed, I never went out, I did no exercise apart from running the race for life once a year, it was just a token effort and used to take me around 50 minutes, walking a good portion of it. At the 2012 race there was a stand advertising military style bootcamps in my local park, so I went to chat the the man at the stand, and from there started to go to bootcamp. I was still far from fit, but through them ended up running the paras 10, clean fatigue the first time in 2 hours and nine minutes, 10 miles was by far the furthest I had ever ran in my life. In 2013 I did my first half marathon, 2014 my first marathon and never thought I would run any further than that. However come 2016 I got chatting to a looney by the name of Ian Yates at my local running club, who had just completed a 200 mile race across the country from Southport to Hornsea, and he was convinced that having done a good few fan dances by this point, I had it in me to do the same, so I signed up. I had to get at least oe ultra under my belt prior to the 200 so I signed up for the Chester Ultra 50 mile, and the Liverpool to Manchester 50 mile, which I completed in 13 hours and 59 minutes, and 11 hours respectively, far from the fastest times, but within the cut offs (only just by 1 minute for Chester) so come August I stood on the start line of the UGB200 in Southport wondering what the hell I had let myself in for, convinced there was no way I’d ever finish, but 99 hours and 53 minutes later I did, it was a lot of checkpoint chasing and I almost got pulled off at the next to last one, but I finished, in a silver position, but also in last position, and although I felt proud at the time, me being me, the pride didn’t last long, and I was soon kicking myself for just being a checkpoint chaser - this is where #BeaBlackSheep comes in…….

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

This year I want to do more than checkpoint chase, I want to do better, I will never be great, but I want to be the best me I can be, and know that I am being the best I can. I want to finish events and feel proud that I have done the best I can, not go home kicking myself because I know I could have done better. Finish a test week march or a Fan Dance and actually feel like I deserve that patch or trophy. Finish that race and not think to myself I only got that silver buckle because of the number of people who dropped out, who gets silver for being last? I don’t want to feel this way at the end of a race any more, when I see how far the like’s of Karl have come it inspires me, and I know that I can be better.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Firstly loose a few pounds, in the hope it will help me move a bit faster, stick to training plans properly, and be accountable - don’t complain about doing poorly when I haven’t put in as much training as I should have. Try to be more positive, throw away my beat myself up stick, and be proud once in a while.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

6-7th January 2018 Winter Trident, including Woodhouse Edtion Fan Dance - disappointed not to make the cut off for the 2nd ascent of Pen Y Fan and got pulled, but completed the High Moon and the Fan Dance on the Sunday.

13th January 2018 Bladerunner Ultra - Got pulled and number removed at the RV before the finish, but took the decision to continue off my own back, so got a patch and the Ladies masters trophy (as well as a bollocking off Ken Jones).

9th February 2018 Darwin Day Marathon - Marathon PB for me of 4 hours and 13 minutes.

10th March 2018 Chester Ultra 50 (DONE)

24th March 2018 Kielder Dark Skies Marathon (DONE)

2nd April 2018 Liverpool to Manchester Ultra 50 (DONE)

7th May Milton Keynes Marathon

13th May White Peak Trail Run

19th May Chester 100

28th June 2018 Pennine Barrier 50

7-8th July 2018 Woodhouse Trident

15th May 2018 Scott Snowdonia Marathon

21st July 2018 GB24

12th August - Rocky Horror Half Marathon

18th August 2018 THE BIG ONE - Race Across Scotland

22nd September 2018 Mt. Snowdon Ultra 50

7th October - Kielder Marathon

13th October - Hell up North

14th October Eden Project Marathon

ME.

Transplanted Brit now living in the US on a mountain in Pennsylvania with seven dogs and two red heads (my wife Alissa and step-daughter, Zoey aka 'The Ginja Ninja').

In 2020 I made some life changing decisions: losing weight, quitting smoking, and finally admitting I had a problem with alcohol so I quit that too.

I started tabbing, working out and dieting at the start of October 2020 and by February 2021 had lost 51 pounds.

When I set my mind to something I see it through, but it's been a lonely trek and groups like Gone Tabbing have been a lifeline to keep up the motivation levels with some competition and mixing up the challenges.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Physically, I want to get back to a 10-miler in 1 hour 45 with 35 pounds and enjoy the outdoors a lot more.

Mentally, I want to totally break out of the middle-aged funk of work, paying bills and life crapola and focus on my marriage, family and personal well-being a lot more than I ever have.

Generally, be a lot kinder and considerate than I have been and focus much more on helping others.

Life is too short.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Working out and tabbing are my #1 changes in my lifestyle that I have adopted.

I quit smoking and alcohol - I just asked myself if I was happier drinking or happier sober, and the answer is the latter.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

#1 10 mile tab with 35 pound bergen in 1 hour 45 minutes

#2 drop my weight further to 13 and a half stones(190 pounds)

#3 Run Currahee at Taccoa, Georgia where the Band of Brothers and the 506th Parachute Infantry were formed and trained.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise to be disciplined and train regularly, take this all seriously but with tongue firmly in cheek, and help and encourage those around me or who need it.

ME.

At the beginning of 2012 I was 16.5st (231lb/105kg), I'd stopped playing football, the one thing thing that had kept me relatively fit and I'd lost my brother. I was seriously overweight, extremely unfit and very depressed. I needed to make a change. I wanted to get back in clothes I hadn't for years, I wanted to run a mile that didn't take me 11 mins, when in my younger days, I could run one in less than 5! I wanted to deal with the grief of losing Lloydy in a positive way, in a way that would make him proud and in a way that he would have recognised as being his brother. I wanted to pay tribute to him in a way fitting of the man he was. I started eating better, researched events I could take on, started running properly and going to the gym, the obvious things, but the things that become so easy to discard when life takes over. So how do you push yourself, test what you're made of, find out what you're truly capable of? Think outside the box! For me, I loved running, I loved running with Lloydy and would often run with him when he was home from operations. Him fully loaded, me in normal run kit, and he'd still run at my pace! I found the PARAS'10, signed up, signed up 15 or so other friends and began to train, it was hard, harder than anything I'd ever done. But by the end of it we'd made a wonderful tribute to Lloydy, raised a lot of money for charity and got ourselves fit!

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

There is in reality so much! On a personal level, I want to qualify Good for Age for New York Marathon, which means running a sub 3:05 marathon. I want to complete the Abbott World Marathon Majors, with Boston and Chicago to come this year and London (x 3) and Berlin already bagged, I'll be two thirds of the way there! I want to take what we did with The 100 Peaks and really push that ethos on through 'Be A Black Sheep'. I want to create a movement that really does move people and help them become the best versions of themselves. I want ultimately to be a great dad to my littleman and be the dad and the role model he needs and deserves.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Despite everything I've achieved in the last few years, I'm still not where I want to be, there are changes I need to make to be better, I still need to fuel myself better when training and on events and to maximise the time I have, especially when it comes to strength training. The one thing I've noticed this year, is that without a Challenge as epic as The 100 Peaks to focus on, I've taken my foot off, and that mentality I need to sort. Whilst, I might not be preparing for something as demanding as that at the moment, I've let my standards slip and I know I need to rectify that. I shall be developing training and nutrition plans that mean I'm lighter, fitter and in much better shape come the events and challenges that I am focusing on. So over the next few weeks I will be analysing what I've done in the past and seeing where I can improve my all round physical and mental health.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

6th January Fan Dance Winter – Woodhouse Edition [COMPLETED] (admittedly aborted the idea of doing Trident due to conditions and injury recovery and with Boston Marathon in mind)!
10th March Chester Ultra
16th April The 122nd Boston Marathon (AWMM)
7th May Milton Keynes Marathon
9th June Endure24
18th August UltraGB The Race Across Scotland
23rd September L'etape London
7th October 41st Bank of America Chicago Marathon (AWMM)
& some secret stuff (at the moment) and Bears Adventures!

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

This is a difficult one, because really I will be just be trying to carry on what we've started and grow the projects we've created and as much as possible help others grow by in some instances becoming more active and in others give them support to help them realise their aspirations. That's what being a black sheep is all about, helping others become the best versions of themselves. 

ME.

I have always done a bit of running here and there but never taken it seriously before. Then in 2014 I went to cheer on my step dad Paul at the Para’s 10 in Colchester and I said to myself I would one day take part and a year later in 2015 I did. It took me 2 hours 22 minutes but I did it. After that I decided to carry on running and in 2016 went back to so the same race knocking 30 minutes off my time from the previous year, needless to say I was over the moon. That same year I took part in my first half marathon, certainly something I never thought I would do. In 2017 I was persuaded by my step dad to take part in the Para’s 10 but this time to TAB. Never in a million did I expect to do that but I did and in May 2018 I will be taking part in my first full marathon in Liverpool and the Great North Run and I firmly believe if it wasn’t for that first time at the Para’s 10, my step dad & the amazing and inspirational people I have met along the way, Karl included not only would I not have lost the 2 stone in weight but I would not of achieved any of the things that I have and will hopefully continue to do.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

25.03.18 - Colchester Half Marathon

15.04.18 - Derby 10k

19.05.18 - Liverpool 5k

20.05.18 - Rock n Roll Liverpool Marathon

30.06.18 - The Dambuster 10

14.07.18 - 5k Inflatable Obstacle Course Nottingham

09.09.18 - Great North Run

30.09.18 - Robin Hood Half Marathon

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

When I look back I realise I have achieved a lot I have a 5th Dan black belt in Jujitsu as well as black belts in other martial arts. I have a good job as school staff instructor for CCF at a good private school, I have 3 children and 6 grandchildren. The past 2 years I have had a huge focus on my fitness so lost 5 stone, joined a gym and managed to do the paras 10 tab, and Birmingham half marathon end of 2018.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

This year I want to do another half marathon with my aim being to run a full marathon by end of this year or following year. I also want to do paras 10 again as well as the fan dance.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

It's,a slow start because I injured my knee so I will start to build up my running miles each week along with my Bergen weight.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

For 2019 I am going to book paras 10, fan dance and a half marathon.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

A better time than last year's paras 10

ME.

I am a 43 year old self employed builder, husband and father of 1 daughter from Derbyshire. I’ve never been overly competitive but have always had a strong love for the outdoors. I love to challenge myself physically and mentally rather than take part in team sports. I was born in North Wales and my very earliest memories are of being up the hills and mountains with my father hunting and looking around mines or rebuilding dry stone walls which would funnily enough feature heavily in my future life.

I’m living around Derbyshire now and when I was at school I had no clear idea on what career I wanted to follow, like most teens I was more interested in chasing girls (trying to!!) and drinking my way through the years. I studied computer programming and graphic design which I enjoyed but the thought of sitting behind a desk didn’t really appeal to me, fortunately at the time my father needed help building some houses. As I’d been with him on building sites in Wales as a child and through the school holidays digging around in the sand pits or helping carry bricks it was a done deal. The rest is now history.

I’ve never been a terribly confident person. I’m not super outgoing and I’m not usually the first person to start a conversation and people can take this the wrong way. I can trace this back to a teacher at school who made me stand in front of a language class every week and badly recite French in front of my class mates pissing themselves laughing along with the pretty girls who we all tried in vain to impress in the playgrounds. It seems trivial to a lot of people and very petty in comparison to those who have had to deal with far worse circumstances but for me it set a seed I found very hard to stop growing.

I did various martial arts through the years. The discipline, training and lifestyle changes it brought always fascinated me. I never did brilliantly competitively but the fights I did boosted my confidence win or lose. I enjoyed the training side of the arts more than the fighting although this was down to my instructors not really being ‘fighters’ themselves and pushing more belts than anything to make money but at the time I was happy getting fitter and mentally stronger.

After years of training I had the chance to open my own club with my wife. It seemed like a dream come true but at first the thought of standing in front of a load of people instructing, let alone talking to them brought back the nightmare of my school life and I doubted I would be able to do it!! But slowly and surely each time at the classes I took warm ups or cool downs for our instructors as part of our instructor training or doing little bits of coaching I started to believe in myself and what I was doing.

Me and my wife ended up with 3 clubs which we ran as a part time business. At times we had 100+ students of all ages and walks of life. We held seminars with film stars and world class fighters and I stood confident and proud in front of them all. We had many, many times of happiness. We taught everyone from troubled children to terminally ill people. One of my proudest moments was helping a man who had Huntington’s Disease reach his black belt. The classes helped him so much he would have to walk in with the aid of 2 walking sticks but would then be able to walk for days afterwards without them because of the balancing and coordination exercises and the boost it gave his brain. We had kids that had never done anything physical in their lives and turned them into national champions.

My wife & daughter and all our students are the ones that gave me the confidence I have today.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Due to workload and family commitments we took the decision to pass on our kickboxing classes after teaching them 2-3 times a week for over 10 years. It was a very hard thing to do but we felt it was at the right time and we needed to spend more time being a family. Some nights I was literally finishing a job and driving straight to the classes to teach in my work clothes and then not getting home till 10.30 at night. I didn’t want the students to have to endure the stress of my work but I do miss the privilege of teaching terribly.

In some ways I felt I had outgrown the challenge of the classes. I know as a martial artist you never stop growing but I felt as though I had reached a limit. I considered the option of fighting competitively again but I believe I had left it a little too late and a change of scenery (so to speak) was needed. I entered quite a few races for fun over the years including some great mud runs. We took part in the Yorkshire 3 peaks challenge and a few years ago entered for the summer Fan dance and so began my re-love of the outdoors again.

My work can be very up and down and its difficult not to bring it home with me sometimes. Not knowing when the next lot of money will come in or how much can be very stressful trying to pay bills on time. When its good its good and when its bad its bad. I have been in some dark places because of it. I know family life has suffered from it and it and the amount of booze I consumed to try and get to sleep some nights was worrying me. I need to relax more at home and leave work at work. This is my number 1 priority change.

My wife lost her sister to cancer and recently her mum yet she remains the most positive and happy person I have met. I need to take her lead.

My confidence is still not where I would like it to be. I miss the privilege of being able to teach people and to pass on my knowledge. It helped my confidence immensely and I would like to pursue something like outdoor teaching further down the line as a hobby or part time job. I believe it would be my ideal choice of hobby or career change!

I am still training twice a week with a PT and I try and get out every weekend tabbing on the hills plus any running I can do in the week plus dog walking etc I want to keep it all up for my physical and mental health!! I have done 3 navigational courses this year and looking to do any more courses I can to do with the outdoors!

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Yorkshire 3 peaks (completed).

Summer Fan Dance (completed).

X-runner Wild Warrior (completed).

Winter Fan Dance (completed).

Point to Point 2019 (completed).

Various Navigation courses.

ML Training 2019/2020.

Winter Fan Dance 2020.

Black Sheep Marathon B&B 2020.

Any sort of challenge or adventure I can fit in!

MY PROMISE.

1) To keep up the training and keep the stress levels as low as possible, not to let it into my family life.

2) Have a decent ‘come down’ program for after a race. This year I took part and won the summer P2P for the load bearing category. I was on such a massive high during training and winning the come down was extremely hard. The stress of work again and not having something to aim for was a huge drop back down to earth for me.

3) Continue to go out into the hills as much as I can. I find the adventure of them exciting, peaceful, challenging. It almost takes me back to the place when I was a kid.

4) be the best father and husband I can be. I have a beautiful wife and daughter plus 2 Staffordshire bull terriers who never say no to a day on the hills. The positives in my life far outweigh the negatives and I need to focus more on them!

5) Learn French!

ME.

Father and family man who turned 50 this year - Keen mountaineer since my early 20s - Spends way too much time chained to a desk and screen.

I went through a very nasty divorce a little over 10 years ago and was a single parent for a little while. I remarried to an amazing woman and had two beautiful daughters. In that time my whole focus has been the emotional and financial stability of my family. My own interests have understandably had to be at the back of the coach all this time. I then lost my Dad to pancreatic cancer in 2018 and accidentally discovered the Paras'10 as a way to raise some money in his name as he was an ex-Para himself.

Getting into tabbing has changed my life. It has given me a focus and targets I never knew I needed, and it really feels like it keeps me sane at times. I spend way too much time chained to a desk and screen through work that I don't get out as much as I would like or should.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To be the fittest I have ever been and to be an example to my kids that if you want to be a better you then do it - It's completely in your hands.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

To CF and Tab more regularly.

To support others through encouraging friends and family to get into the hills (or just outdoors more.

To support the GT family by providing encouragement on events and to their posts.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

All the Paras'10 events this year and to get below 2 hours for the TAB

Summer Fan Dance

Anything else I can squeeze in around family commitments.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Maintaining my own physical and positive mental health will help me to support my family, friends and the tabbing community to the best of my ability.

ME.

I am a 43 year old Engineering Design Manager for a large Aerospace company. I am married to Callie and have an 12 year old daughter Emily. I am horribly unfit, but I made a decision 2 months ago to make a change from being stuck in the office for 12 hours a day, to get off my arse and get physical. So I went along to a running club in Milton Keynes and joined a Couch to 5Km and tomorrow 10th March 2018 I will attend the MK Park Run to try and run 5k in one go!!!

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I simply want to loose a stone in weight, my wobbly belly and my double chin!! Is a six pack to much to ask!

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Started running, changing my diet and hopefully more to follow.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

Not sure yet. Need to get past the 5km first!!!

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Loose weight, feel healthier and look trim....ish

ME.

I am (reluctantly) in middle age and a keen runner. In 2006 I walked across a inspection pit (short cut) and broke my knee in two places. It took me years to recover. I was born in a pit village near Arthur Scargill, but went on to university. I firmly believe that you cannot help the hand you are dealt but its up to you to make the best of it....

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Difficult to ascertain, but always a little further....

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I am upping my running speed gradually but not phased by events. I have learned that mental attitude more important than fitness so not thrashing myself too much.....

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

Fan dance back to back summer 2018, then all of the test marches then 'retire' to cycling/marathon running

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

If you want advice please ask. I got so much support from 100 Peaks (Black Sheep predecessor). I will have off days but that does not matter. Sometimes you run past people on the mountain and other days they run past you, accept it and accept we are not perfect and sometimes have off days......Don't push a bad position 'Top Gun' But remember, 'whilst you are staring at the Sun, the shadows always fall behind you' @ my business manager Gabs :)

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

Soldier clinging on to his job by the skin of his teeth after being diagnosed with testicular cancer 3 years ago. Clear now but body is now suffering with post op issues, fistula and kidney issues. Mental health issues.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

A better fitter healthier HAPPIER me. For the sake of my family.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Getting out and getting fit, running, walking, tabbing. Hopefully some long distance walks involving camping too. All to improve my state of mind .

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Coast to coast challenge. Hadrian's wall walk. And various distance runs.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

The Great North run. Full marathon.

ME.

I'm 27 years old and used to be fit and healthy. I used to play football regularly and used to enjoy other sports. I injured my knee and never got back my fitness or my shape. I put on a bit of weight and am not currently happy with the way I look and my fitness levels now and I am going to do something about it.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I would like to cycle the London to Brighton bike ride in June and in a good time. I would also like to be able to potentially run a marathon in comfortable time by next year. I would also like to be able to play a full 90 minutes of football without having to have a break or preserve my fitness.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I'm changing my diet and trying to eat less fatty and sugar heavy foods. I've signed up for the London to Brighton bike ride and will start training for that. I have also signed up for martial arts to build on my fitness and flexibility.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

My plan for 2018 is to complete the London to Brighton bike ride in a good time. I would also like to sign up for the London Marathon in 2019 and train for that. The new football season starts in September and I would like to complete a full pre season training programme and get back into playing regularly.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise myself that I will achieve a good time in the London to Brighton. I also promise myself that I will keep going until I am happy with my fitness and body shape.

ME.

After clocking up a personal best 817 running miles during 2016, a knee injury towards the end of the year ruled me out of participating at all in the 100 Peaks Challenge and led to a real slump in motivation during the majority of 2017 which saw me making far less frequent trips to the gym for strength work, pack in running altogether by October as I no longer got any enjoyment at all out of it and by the Christmas / New Year period tip the scales at close to 16 ½ stone which is the heaviest I've ever been. With hindsight, I should have seen sense and not taken part in the 2016 Kielder Marathon. Training had gone reasonably well, I was confident of beating my previous time, then race day came and I woke up feeling not entirely 100%. When I got off the coach at the start I felt worse and by 5k in I was already wishing it was over. I eventually staggered across the finish line in spot on 6 hours and no doubt planted the seeds for the injuries and burnout to follow. In 2017 I tried to get my motivation back for signing up for the local Morpeth 2 Newcastle marathon. Halfway through my training plan the event was cancelled and that really was the proverbial straw. My Granddad was a hugely influential figure in my childhood and I was particularly in awe of his time in the British Military. Whilst I wasn't able to follow him in to the Army I do try to live up to his legacy and pay tribute to the memories I have of him. To date I have completed both the Winter & Summer edition of the Fan Dance, Nine Paras10 events, 5 marathons and ¾ of an Ultra Marathon. The ultimate aim is to be able to call myself an IRONMAN. 

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE ?

My main focus for the next 12 - 16 months is on the 2019 running of The Wall ultra marathon, a one day 69 mile run from Carlisle Castle across the country to the Newcastle Upon Tyne Quayside loosely following the route of Hadrian's Wall. I first attempted this in June 2013 when I was far less experienced as a runner and, after following what turned out to be a highly inadequate training plan, I had to voluntarily withdraw from the race at the 52 mile checkpoint  when everything simultaneously seized up and finishing those last 17 mile felt about as likely as turning round and doing the same 52 mile back to the start. Since running my first 10K in 2011 I've run 30+ races since at The Wall is the only time I've crossed a start line and not crossed the finish line. Finishing those 69 mile will be a big personal achievement and put to bed 6 years of what if's.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING ?

Diet is the first change I am making, I am very aware that being 16st is not healthy for me and will not enable me to run 69 mile so I am taking more interest than I ever have done not only just in what I eat but in calorie count, when and how often I eat, effects on weight gain / loss and protein, carb, fibre content etc. In previous years, particularly during marathon training programs, I haven't got the balance right between strength training and running miles. Rather than self program my strength work I am following the Stronglifts 5x5 app sticking to compound lifts and three 45 minute sessions per week. On a similar note and in terms of running training, 2016 in particular I suffered from the effects of overtraining. Partially out of a reluctance to take rest days and partially due to a lack of confidence and a feeling than if I take some time off I'll have to work harder to get back to where I was, I would just keep running. I'm paying more attention to how I'm feeling both physically and mentally, 10 - 20 mins a day Headspace meditation, and adjusting or taking rest days if the signs of over-training start appearing. 

MY PLANS FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

2018 `is very much a training year for me. I didn't run at all between the Great Scottish Run on 1st October 2017 and my local Parkrun on 27th January 2018 so it is going to be a year of steadily building up the mileage and concentrating on bringing my body weight down. The first six months of 2019 will be spent following a Wall Run specific training plan up until the event itself. Beyond that, my focus will change slightly from running to triathlon in particular taking the plunge and starting open water swimming and developing front crawl technique. The plan is to complete the Slateman triathlon in 2020 then either Wales or Bolton IRONMAN, to be decided, in 2021. Separately to above, an ongoing in the background, I have a personal goal of joining the 1000lb club - in one session, lifting a combined 1000lb or above between single rep squat, deadlift and bench press. 

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I will follow both my strength and running training plans to ensure I am as ready as possible when I set off from Carlisle Castle but also, I wouldn't have managed to achieve what I have over the last few years without the help and support of many friends so I will do everything I can to help and inspire those around me and show that, if you put the work in, you can achieve your goals no matter how big.

ME.

Hill climbing pharmacist knocking on the door of 40!

Several half marathons and a 3 Peaks under my belt.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I refuse to grow old gracefully, I want to take the start of my 5th decade as an opportunity to push myself further. I want to take part in organised tabbing and running events with the Fan Dance firmly on my bucket list.

I need knee surgery to allow me to get back to road running so want to get that sorted in the next 12 months.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Joining groups of like minded individuals such as this, Gone Tabbing, Paras 10 and following AEE’s page.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

Arnhem edition Paras 10 entered.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I will always go one step further. I will not allow the Fan Dance or new PBs to remain a pipe dream.

ME.

Fairly fit(ish) 44yr old who loves trail running and generally getting outdoors.  I'm currently fitter now than I was in my early 20's and early 30's but for me that’s only half the story.  I feel I have come quite a long way from my younger days where the thought of running a 10k would be an insurmountable task and frankly terrified me, to where I am now (running the odd Ultra and completing SAS test week marches).   However, all that aside, as I get older I'm becoming acutely aware of the need to "look after myself" better.  I simply can't get away with eating rubbish, training whenever then rocking up to the events I want to do. Living at the foot of the Mendip Hills has made me realise my outdoor passion - trail  running!! I have completed quite a few trail runs and a couple of Ultra's (30mile distance). I can usually be found dodging angry cows while running around the beautiful Mendip Hills, and while it may sound melodramatic, I know my running days may be limited so I want to cram as much as I can in while I can.  For me, middle age does not mean sitting on my arse every night watching mindless telly, drinking beer, getting fat and slowly slipping into old age.  There are still many things to be completed by this middle aged slightly angry northerner!
 
WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

The plan for this year is a few more ultra's with a few "fun" events thrown in, building up the mileage and training for a 50mile (or maybe even more) race next year. The big challenge in order to do this is that I need to start looking after myself better, eating better, losing some weight and generally being the best version of myself that I can be.  The other main reason I want to do this is because, being an older dad, I still want to be able to go running about the mountains having adventures with Lucas as he grows up - he will be a moody teenager before I know it!. I love spending time outdoors with Sheena and Lucas and as long as I can combine my love of the outdoors with them two as well as participating in various challenges then I'll be a very happy man.
 
WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

The hardest changes I'm making is to cut out eating rubbish and starting to think about what I'm putting in to get the best out.  This might not seem hard but believe me I'm a man who loves crisps, chocolate and most of all beer! Getting the right balance of eating right, looking after myself and training to my maximum potential is my main goal going forward.  If I look after my body, it looks after me and then I can be the best dad / husband to Lucas and Sheena.  That’s a complete win-win in my eyes and remains foremost in my daily thoughts and plans.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

Watching my diet (my biggest struggle)!
Training well and looking after my body.
Balancing my trail running and outdoor activities with Sheena and Lucas. 
As many outdoor adventures with the man cub as possible!
Being the best dad and husband I can be (main goal).

EVENTS. 

Big Cheese fell race: 11th March 2018
Battle of Lansdown (OCR) 15th April 2018
Endure 24 (Team Bawbag) - Reading 9th June 2018
Ham Hill to Lyme Regis Ultra 7th July 2018
Mendip marauder Ultra (West Mendip Way) 4th August 2018

Dartmoor Marathon 1st September 2018 (TBC)

TWAC (Trail Weston Athletics Club) events:
Trig Point bagging in Western Beacons. Leading a day out bagging as many trig points as we can in the Brecon beacons.  Self-supported and self-navigated.

Trail Days out:
Dartmoor
Exmoor
Brecon Beacons
Dorset Coastal Path.

ME.

My life is like a bit of a Swiss army knife. I've lived in a few different countries. Now back in the UK.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to do a Fan Dance and make the cutoff time.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Increasing my fitness level. Eating better. Losing weight.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Increase my participation in groups like Gone Tabbing, increase my fitness and do a Fan Dance.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

My promise to myself is to get fit enough to do a fan dance.

ME.

I'm a Physics teacher at a 6th form college with a young family. Despite being busy, I've trained and completed many 10K races over the last 10 years as well as the 2019 and 2020 PARAS 10 miler and the 2019 Fan Dance.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Lately, I've lost some of my mojo for getting out and keeping fit. I'd like to get back to a decent level of fitness with the aim of eventually completing a marathon.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Get out for at least one 10K run each week and one hour of calisthenics training each week. Include running with weight to improve tabbing and race times.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Complete a marathon. Achieve faster times in the PARAS 10 and Fan Dance. Achieve faster times in 10K races.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise to be consistent. I will get out there more often, with weight, and keep going no matter how tough and I will get quicker - it will happen! The only thing stopping me, is me.

ME.

Police Officer of 21 years. Always kept reasonably fit. Married and proud Father of two. Three dogs. Live in Wark’s.

Had a bit of a meltdown last year re work and was off with anxiety/depression.

Got myself together again slowly. Started training together with a couple of mates who had been through similar. One an Ex Royal Marine so we started ‘Yomping’ building up the mileage and weight, chatting lots, getting stuff off our chests. Training for the COPS 30 miler, a collaboration between RM and COPs charities. I’ve raised about a grand and the events just been cancelled. Need to find a new focus for the sponsors but also for me and the boys.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

A similar length event to work towards and complete.

Kick on afterwards to something else, maybe longer, different.

Keep moving forward. Keep talking.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Being more honest with myself, wife, mates early doors before the shit builds up. Started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Very ‘in the moment’. Changed roles at work to put family (and me) first.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

As above re one of your events, maybe the 28th August one.

Keep learning with the BJJ.

Get onto the Firearms team at work.

Maybe do a 100 mile ultra next year.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

The first two as above.

The 3rds out of my control and not sure I want the 4th enough yet.

ME.

50 year old husband & father of 2 fantastic children that drive me on to try and be better each day. I retrained midlife to be an Osteopath to help others (6 hard years of studying and working. I qualified as an Osteopath in 2011) and now juggle a career as an IT Consultant and an Osteopath. I thrive on educating others to reach their full potential – I assist with coaching children’s Rugby & Swimming. I try and maintain my own identity and acknowledge we all have challenges that others do not see or know about, so judge no-one by their cover - know the person.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To remember that life is a journey and that the bumps only serve to help make us stronger and a better version of ourselves if we are in the right mindset. Our mind is an incredibly powerful part of our bodies and all too often we neglect our Mental Health and fail to achieve our best. I want to be mentally stronger and better version of me.

I want to complete the AEE Test March Series and continue with Aimee’s journey into hiking and tabbing in the hills along with her swimming and studies to hopefully pursue a career as a Doctor.

Train and race against Scott in a couple of triathlon’s as he’s now decided he can challenge the old man J Bring it on young man … you maybe a far better swimmer but I’m older, wiser and I will win J All the while trying to engage and support Scott with his GCSE’s which for a teenager with ADHD and an environment where there has been next to no schooling due to the Covid19 crisis is somewhat of a challenge!

So 2020 - I hit 50!!! After last year’s Double Brutal Triathlon, I decided I needed to find a way of finding my own identify again and want to train the whole body, therefore I’ve embarked on training for Sealfit Kokoro which will require all round physical fitness along with a tough mental attitude – date of attendance is to be reviewed due to Covid19 crisis.

Keep helping the swimmers of Folkestone Sports Centre Swimming Club achieve their goals, working with the rest of the awesome team of coaches and helpers that make the club an inclusive supportive environment.

Continue to help the ARFC youth teams where I can and continue working at surfing – still a life dream to surf smooth and efficiently!

All the while I want to see my children grow and flourish and reach their full potential - which is all I want for anyone - #bethebestyoucan

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Focusing on what is really important in life and ensuring that my family achieve their own goals as individuals - don’t follow or copy me be your own person with your own goals.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Help family, friends, work colleagues and patients achieve their goals and #bethebestyoucan

Various triathlon and tabbing/running events which circumstances and conditions allow.

Daughter – 2021 successfully completes her A levels and transitions into University studying Medicine.

Son – 2021 successfully completes GCSE’s to his target levels and progresses to his A levels.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise to give nothing less than 100%

ME.

25 years old and waking up every morning feeling 75 years old with slipped discs in my back and a dodgy knee from an old football injury but that doesn’t stop me being active and doing the things I
love! 2017 was a good year for me, going back to face my demons on Jacobs ladder and finishing the AEE Winter Fan Dance after a VW 2 years earlier, completed several 10kms and half marathons and finished the Asics Manchester Marathon, I bought my first house and even secured myself a new job!

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Escape the rat race and get out in the mountains more often. Improve self discipline and consistency with both training and eating healthy. Hit target weight before May. Improve both speed and strength and run a mile in under 07:30 mins. Spread the word about the benefits of exercise to improve mental health.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Breaking my targets down into small steps I will slowly adjust my lifestyle to create a balanced healthy life. The first focus is improving my diet, cutting junk processed foods and replacing it with whole natural foods my body will benefit from. As well as the diet I will be joining group PT sessions to improve my strength and conditioning taking part in 3 circuit sessions each week. Its time to
prioritise spending time out in the hills and mountains to improve both my fitness and mental health. The final change is learning to be consistent with diet and training will slowly help me nail each of my goals.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

It’s on nearly everyone’s New Year resolution to lose weight but this year I’m determined to lose the muffin top. Spending up to 60 hours a week in front of a computer dispatching emergency ambulances has caught up on me after nearly 4 years, my weight has gone through the roof and my waist line has expanded. I have signed up to a 6 week weight loss programme which encourages you to change your lifestyle rather than being a short term fad diet which includes a detailed meal plan and 3 group circuit sessions each week. The goal is to lose 20lb within the first 6 weeks of training which I’m currently on track with, then lose a further 10lb before my first half marathon in the spring. Start my new job as an Emergency Medical Technician which means 18 weeks in the class room learning whilst balancing training, dieting and making time to escape out in the mountains. After volunteering at the Edinburgh marathon festival a few years back its time to go back and run the course. I will be taking on the Edinburgh Half Marathon over the May bank holiday weekend with a group of mates. June is the time to crack my first trail race of the year! Salomon trail half marathon in the world renowned Coed y Brenin forest in Snowdonia National park. Now summer is over with it’ll be time to pack up the Bergan, load up the weight and prepare for the Catterick Para 10 race in September. After half marathons in both Scotland and Wales it’s only fair I finish with one in England and my home town of Manchester. I will be aiming for a PB in the Manchester Half marathon in October. These are only a few events I already have planned and I tend to spontaneously book races and
events as I see them whilst scrolling through twitter!

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To be consistent with my training and diet as everybody knows consistency is key! 

ME.

About me, hmmm? I love being in the outdoors, I enjoy taking part in tabbing events, ultra marathons, kayaking, walking my crazy hounds. I have trained in a few different martial arts over the years and am currently a second degree black belt in Tae Kwon to-do. I will be outside in the hills at every given opportunity.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I am always striving to be the best version of myself. I want to challenge myself and surround myself with like minded people.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I am constantly reviewing and resetting, but I never want to give up.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

So this year has gone a bit to pot in the way of events. I am taking part in the AEE challenges. As the ultra marathons I had planned are cancelled, I have set my own ultra marathon that I am doing in October, I'm also doing it to raise money for a wonderful humanitarian charity in Syria. I will be running the beacons 50 route on Friday the 30th oct and then the AEE blade runner route on sat 31st Oct. So 50miles then 50km. I've named it the beacons 50/50. All being well my aim for next year is to enter the dragons back ultra and complete my first nonstop 100 mile ultra.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise myself that I will raise as much money for my chosen charity and complete my own ultra, I find doing things solo a lot harder mentally.

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

I was quite fit until about 35 then had keyhole surgery on my knees twice, and then I could not run, I come from a military family background, I don't give up at all but I do need pushing and probably encouragement to do things.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To be as fit as I can at my age, mentally I am strong even though PTSD does not help, but physically.

I'm lagging behind so probably I want to balance the 2 out. Physically and mentally in tune with myself.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I have started tabbing and bike riding.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

To tab for 10 miles without breaking down and try to run.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Physically and mentally in tune with my life.

ME.

Welsh, Stubborn, and slightly unhinged, a true Black Sheep.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To inspire at least one person a year to change their way of life for the better.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Eating less moving more, reduced my weight from 14 stone to 13, heading for 12 stone.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Just completed the Woodhouse Trident, signed up for the Black Sheep Marathon, however my main goal for 2020 is to help others achieve theirs.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To help others, through inspiration and providing challenges via the Black Sheep running page.

ME.

48 years old. Married with teenage daughter. Working for Cardiff University libraries. Ex Customs NIS and Naval Reserve.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to average 100,000 steps per week for 2021.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Getting off my arse when the weather's bad.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

Walking locally at the moment, but planning the Thames Valley Mighty Hike and Snowdon Night Walk in 2022 when the plague lifts.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Better fitness, better self-discipline.....

ME.

2017 was a big year for me. I had recently become a full-time civilian again after 10 years as an army reservist, 2 years of training and preparation for the 100 Peaks Challenge was reaching it’s final stages, and I reached the landmark 50th birthday. While not super-fit I was capable of completing a marathon and an ultra marathon before the epic events of May and June. The 100 Peaks Challenge is well documented elsewhere, it’s enough here to say that in the days and weeks after it’s conclusion I felt a massive emptiness. I’ve had similar feelings after other events but after 2 years of eating, sleeping and living with the 100 Peaks in the forefront of my day to day life, I felt a massive void. After a satisfyingly fast Fan Dance in June, and a couple of cycle events towards the end of the year I kind of eased off on the training, losing a certain amount of fitness while putting on a bit of weight as 2018 approached.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

It’s not been a great start to the year. Illness in January was followed by an injury in February, delaying my intentions of regaining the ground I’ve lost over the last few months.
Personally I work best when I have set goals ahead of me. For that reason I have created a list of events I aim to take part in throughout 2018. As I write this I’ve just had my 51st birthday, and while I’m certainly not unfit there is work to be done. It’s no longer an option to eat and drink whatever I like, and still expect to perform to a good standard. While I could “wing it” in my 30’s and 40’s I now need to start looking after my body if I want to remain capable to performing at a level I’m happy with.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I'm currently around 14st. so need to lose a bit of weight if possible. Regular training and some minor diet changes will hopefully start to pay dividends.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

A list of events I’m currently planning to take on. There may be more, but these are confirmed.

25/3/18 Colchester Half (DONE)

15/4/18 Derby 10k (DONE)

13/5/18 Ride For Helen sportive - 65 miles

19/5/18 Liverpool 5k

20/5/18 Liverpool R’n’R Marathon

23/6/18 Black Sheep Marathon

30/6/18 Dambuster 10

21/7/18 GB24 Ultra

9/9/18 Great North Run

23/9/18 L’Etape London sportive - 117 miles

30/9/18 Robin Hood Half

7/10/18 Kielder Marathon

13/10/18 Hellrunner Hell Up North

24/11/18 Hellrunner Hell Down South

Beyond 2018 I am in the early stages on planning an endurance challenge for myself which I hope to complete in 2019 either solo or possibly with the company of a few black sheep along the way. I’ll say more when my plans are at a more complete stage.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To make the most of the time I have to train, and to appreciate the best gym in the world. It’s right there outside the front door.

ME.

51yrs old this year, working as a train driver for London Overground. Big fan of Beer Festivals and Half Marathons!

Served in the Parachute Regiment between 89-93.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

This year I'm hoping to improve my times at both Paras10 events, as well as doing my best in the Blacksheep events I'm taking part in, as well as tabbing a few half marathons along the way!

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Going to give up beer and eat and train sensibly!

Only joking! I'm never giving up beer!

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Some events I'm definitely doing are as follows;

Watford Half Marathon, Grit & Glory 10k, Grand Union Canal Half Marathon, Blacksheep Beast, Yorkshire Warrior OCR, Yorkshire Warrior Log Race, Paras10 Colchester & Catterick.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To train regularly, to try and Tab more half marathons than Beer Festivals and to have a laugh!

ME.

Ex Army now Mental Health Nurse ... got into triathlon and ultra running as a means to better manage my ghosts ..... healthy body healthy mind and all that.

Lucky enough to have a like minded partner , a mini ninja Japanese mountain goat of a woman who seriously knows how to keep going & going.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To maintain the ability to keep getting back up when life knocks me down and to push on further than before.

Work life balance is one thing but discovering what really makes you tick is priceless.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Still taking life one day , one week at a time, always learning & building even if it's with a few backward steps sometimes.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

2021 was full of promise but long covid kicked that it into touch .... hoping I can get back into enough shape to complete a few marathons , Paras10 & what ever else is within reach, am only tabbing (cf) each day with the dog but its a starting point toward more applied phys.

2022 is will be aiming to do Lakeland, some more Paras10 , perhaps some skyrunning.

2023 is for bigger and uglier .... DragonsBack and the like.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Never give up on myself or those around me & enjoy life a little more.

ME.

I'm a 38 year old road running currently fighting Prostrate Cancer, plus I am recovering from a heart attack back in August 2020. I served in the Royal Navy as a submariner and a very proud ex-matelot. by 2011 my weight had ballooned to 22st. My 3 year old daughter said I looked like Santa without the beard. I then took up running by September 2012 I had lost 4st and did my first 10K in a slow 57:54 I now only weigh 12st. I then did a charity challenge in 2013 where I did 13 x 10KM road races for the NSPCC with aim to set a personal best. I achieved this and raised several thousand pound for the charity.

Then in 2014 I went one better and did 13 x HM for same charity. I had doubled the amount I raised. That Christmas the charity used my childhood abuse story for their childline campaign. The campaign when viral and raised over £1.3 million for the charity.

I did my first marathon in April 2015 at London but then took on another charity challenge this time for the Sheffield Childrens Hospital racing 33 times in 23 weeks. During this time I won my first race, I then focused on getting faster and winning more races and have since 2015 won 22 races and masters gold medals. Past few years have been tough, my daughter in 2018 suffered a stroke aged 9 and then we found out she had been born with a heart condition, She was seriously ill for 18 months until she had her heart operation last November. She has made a full recovery and doing really well. I managed to tear one of my quad muscles last June that put me out till Jan of this year. I then start rebuilding only to get shock of my life when I was diagonsed with T2 prostrate cancer. Right now besides having to pee for England several times a night its ok and not doing anything. There is a plan of action in place should things change. I was then getting back to my best when out of the blue I had a heart attack in August. The cardiologists thing I had fat lump left over from when I was a big lad and it had caused the blockage. They said due to how big my heart is and how fit I am in meant I survived. Doing ok and on the road to a full recovery.

Social media I am on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as richhayesrunner. Let me know where best to sent you some photos.

There is more about me on my blog:

https://richhayesrunner.co.uk/about-me

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to stay fit and beat cancer but also continue to get faster. I want to run 100 marathons while I can. I still have dreams of competing in ultras and long distance events. I've always want to do some Endurance challenges like LEJOG. Plus would love to run in places I visited while was in the Navy such as the Falkland Islands. Main thing is I want to show people, that what happens in your life does not have to be an excuse but can be used to push you further.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Well my coach and I are using rest of 2020 to get mileage back up then once COVID allows to get back racing. My goals are still to run a fast marathon time and reclaim my medals. Main thing is I am having to adapt my running to make sure my heart does not relapse and with one eye on my cancer, regular blue tests and biopsies means we are one step ahead of it at the moment.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

At moment it depends on COVID but will race a road marathon in 2021 but first challenge I am looking at is a 6 hour event in March 2021 with aim to run the full 6 hours. Then it be a case of getting my track speed back and tackling some masters championship medals in the summer.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To always be the best version I can be and to show people that setbacks are not an excuse to quit. My mantra is every setback is just the start of another comeback.

ME.

Ex serviceman, been out for a while and focusing on being the best dad and husband I can be. Desperate to get back to a high level of fitness by running and most recently taking up rugby and the older age of 37!

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to regain a high level of fitness. I have ran a few marathons and a lot of half’s but want to eventually do New York with a sub 3:30 time.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Eat less of my favourite foods (all the bad things) train harder (as in train……then push it).

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND. No real plan, just get the miles in. Would like to get at least 500 in over 2019.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Wind, rain, dark sky’s or a mix of all I will get out with my little buddy Molly the dog.

ME.

I work front line with the emergency services, busy and tired like all my colleagues. My way to unwind is by hitting the hills, climbing and most definitely feel like a black sheep in the city I work.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Currently my BSc which i’m doing as a top up whilst increasing my fitness and well-being to enable me to achieve more goals, mountain tops physical and mentally.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Helping with more charity work, studying and fitness training.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Pen-y-Fan in August for the British Heart Foundation with colleagues.
BSc finished and further courses identified.
Finish the stack of books I’ve Bought.
Revisit and visit new places in the UK and abroad

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

As much as I possibly can whilst still being a good bloke..

ME.

Hi my name is Rob known to all as Stitch I live with my wife now in Blackpool. I am also an Ex-British Army Veteran I Joined Parachute Regiment back in 1979 And I did Selection in 1985.

I like to test myself and always push myself to do better, I love the Outdoors and wild open places I like Field Craft and Fell running and Tabbing distance with my Bergen over rough Terrain .I also love Endurance Events Like the PARA's 10 which I done Several to raise money for my fellow Veterans, But also as a personal Challenge to push to beat my previous times. Also the Fan Dance which seems to never change in the Mental effort required to keep pushing yourself to complete the course in the required time I like also to meet and chat with like minded people to Encourage and help those new to this type of Endurance Tabbing To all who wish to do this Stand out and shine and Remember Pain is just weakness leaving the Body....

Find me on Facebook Robert Taylor (Stitch) .

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

To push Harder to test my metal to Keep pushing myself, my mental endurance, my Physical endurance and to find my limits .

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

To Train Harder, to stay focused longer to push beyond my PTSD and to help all I can with people who suffer PTSD.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

To keep testing myself Both my Mental Endurance and my Physical Endurance Looking forward to 2021and Covid-19 permitting all the new Events yet to come.

And also to Raise funds for my Veteran Brothers in Arms.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To keep pushing Myself to do more and to go further and Achieve more

ME.

In 2018 I tragically lost my mum out of nowhere, suddenly she was no longer with us. Suffering with PTSD since childhood this took a huge amount of strength from within to deal with, I turned to alcohol which fuelled my childhood demons once again, after half a year of fighting myself something from within made me realise I hadn't fought for 30 odd years to gain strength of my PTSD for it to be taken right back to the depths. I promised myself December 2018 I would turn my life around and be the best person I could ever dream of. That journey one year later has been life changing .

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to prove no matter what demons we carry, we can train our mind and our body's to be the ultimate strength from within and aspire to any challenges we put Infront of ourselves no matter what . Help other people find there way and show just how good this world can be when you put everything you have into something your truly dedicated about and become the greatest version of you possible.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

I am making the change to create my body and my mind into something stronger than it's ever been. No backing down 110% into every step along the journey , I've changed my entire diet to a very balanced one leaning towards plant base, with literally a treat of meat once in a blue moon. Every training day and food plan has been monitored for results . This has served me well and helping me conquer my challenges and goals going from 84kg last year down to now 63kg and the most athletic build I've been since my teens/20s when I was boxing.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

My plans for 2019 were to start training and getting fit again, I started by signing upto the Cateran yomp, i trained from December 2018 upto the event in June 2019 where I came in with a gold finish and proved to myself I can achieve anything i put my heart soul and dedication into. Since June I've completed paras 10 catterick under the 1hr50 pass time, and around 8 other events to which recently I've started entering trail events between tabbing and starting to come in top finish positions so the year has truly been a success.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I promise myself and my mum god rest her soul that no matter the demons within or the PTSD I will continue to strive forward with training my heart out and becoming the most elite version of myself possible! I want to show we can live with PTSD and still achieve our dreams by becoming mentally and physically fit as possible. Heres to smashing down barriers and helping others achieve that dream 👊💪

ME.

46 year old who tries his best at whatever he pursues.
A family man who enjoys life outdoors with my wife and children, a person who wants my 2 boys to look up to and one day say my dad inspired me to try and pursue my dreams and goals.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to achieve things that inspire my 2 children to show them there’s no age limit to say you can push yourself to try (and fail).

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

To become fitter and healthier version of me.

MY PLAN FOR 2018 AND BEYOND.

World coal carrying championships
AEE fandance (summer edition)
Paras 10
World Beer keg carrying championships

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

To become a better me, the person I’ve always been inside but scared of showing.

2019 UPDATE

I achieved more than I thought I could in 2018 but with my 47th approaching quicker than I’d like, I’m still pursuing my target weight which is achievable after losing just over 3 stone in the last year so heading into 2019 to achieve my target weight. Having my wife on board and also wanting to lose weight and get fitter, the small goals we set are the stepping stones needed for the bigger goals.

What do I want to achieve:

Same as last year, inspire my 2 boys and encourage them in whatever they aim for. Showing them that failing is part and parcel of achieving. And if I can inspire others along the journey then I’ll accept that as a bonus.

What changes am I making:

Eat healthier, train smarter and stop smoking.

My plan for 2019 and beyond:

World coal carrying championships

Caphouse colliery coal race

Blacksheep Marathon

AEE fandance (summer edition)

Paras 10 (catterick)

Hellrunner (hell up north)

Blacksheep ultra

And hopefully a few half marathons

My personal promise:

To keep striving for excellence and to encourage and hopefully inspire others!

ME.

I am ex RAF Tactical Supply and left in the year 2000. I bimbled along the next 10 years or so a little bit lost with no clear direction and feeling as if I didn’t have a purpose. I got myself into a few challenges post 2010 but never really pushed myself. Then in 2016 I suddenly found myself in hospital. A combination of eating too much drinking too much and not looking after my bosy whilst still Trying to push myself to the limit. I was in hospital for a month with 22 pulmonary embolisms (blood clots) in my heart and lungs and was lucky not to have had a massive stroke. I was told by the doctors I would have massive lung damage and would never run or cycle seriously again. After a month on the depths of depression at this news I decided I needed to prove them wrong. So I signed up for a marathon, starter the couch to 5k where I had to repeat week 1, ten times and set myself off on my road to recovery. 10 months later i completed the Marathon and 2 months after that i completed my first weighted Fan Dance. A check up at the hospital then revealed most of the lung damage had been reversed with just a small section of my right lung still damaged. I'm now a teetotal, plant-based, runner and tabber, I run every morning at 5am and feel on top of the world.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to inspire others to get out of the rut. Its never too late to make the changes to bring out your true potential.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

After 1 year back on the beer after 2 years off following my illness, I am not determined to stay alcohol free. The freedom that the clarity of thought you have through total sobriety cannot be measured

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Taking part in the AEE test march series. I plan to Tab coast to coast next year and the draw of the Lands End to John o' Groats challenge is still calling.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Remain healthy and inspire myself and others to do the same. To offer help to others where I can.

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

Want to keep fit - enjoy the outdoors. Member of Gone Tabbing. Done various AEE, TSFE Events, OCR races and 2 ultras.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Improve fitness to to more endurance events, Improve mental fitness.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Training on a regular basis. Signed up to EoF.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Complete Woodhouse withdrawn at RV3, twice 😢

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Will train hard and dedicate 2020 for improvement and healthy eating.

AWAITING BIO.

ME.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

ME.

In 2014 my whole life changed when I made the decision to have a Husky pup called Asher! Due to his high energy levels I spent a lot of time outdoors walking, (which previous to this I sadly admit I did very little outdoor activities. Bringing up my children and running my own business, there just didn’t seem enough hours in the day. A quick trip to the local gym was all I felt I could fit in to keep myself fit).  I soon became board of the same local park walks, the same routes and paths. I started to adventure further and fell in love with walking the mountains and finding new places. When you have a passion for something you are certain find the time! In 2015 I rescued an Alaskan malamute called Marley who was 5 years old and that’s where our adventures began. We would walk for hours, explore new places and find new routes. I just wanted to spend all my time outdoors.

I have a competitive streak, so as I became fitter I started challenging myself, how quickly could I summit a mountain and then keep trying to beat my time. Push myself to see how many miles I could walk and how many mountains I could climb in a day. I’ve never really been a runner, I used to use a running machine in the gym before I started walking the mountains, but I felt that walking the mountains with Asher and Marley was more fun and challenging. The great outdoors is amazing! And free! Last year I started incorporating some trail running into my hikes and started to enjoy it. 

Three months ago I wanted to set myself a challenge. I wanted to raise money for my local mountain rescue team and celebrate turning 40 this year too. So I decided to set myself a challenge of running a 40 mile route.  My birthday was only 2 months away and early February, so the weather may not have been good to run on the day of my birthday, really didn’t want to run the mountains in the snow. Also needed time to train, how realistic would it be to increase from running 6 miles (which is about the longest I had run at this point without walking) to 40 miles! I had walked 20 plus miles in a day many times in the summer months, but running 40 miles was huge! So I set a date for the end of March, plotted my route, set up a just giving page and spread all over social media. I was now committed.  I researched training and nutrition plans and ran most days increasing my mileage. Within 8 weeks my long run days were 20 plus miles and I was feeling great! Making the commitment and knowing people where behind me made me dedicated to my training. I’ve really started to enjoy running, covering so many miles in such a short space of time and Asher loves it too! I’ve started to become addicted to the feeling I have when finishing my run. Gives me so much energy, confidence and makes me feel so happy! Running is great! I have surprised myself over the past few months of what I have achieved not only physically but mentally.  I have thought a lot more about my nutrition and fuelling my body correctly. Stretching more, looking after my muscles and practising yoga.

My 40 mile challenge is only a couple of weeks away and I want to continue trail running after this event. I want to continue with my long run days every week and increase my mileage even more. I want to improve my nutrition and become an even healthier and fitter me.  However it can be so easy to slip out of routine and make excuses when life becomes busy, you feel tired or the weather isn’t great.  People have inspired me and have motivated me at times when I am feeling less enthusiastic. Being part of the Black sheep family I know will encourage me to grow and find out what I really am capable of.

Please read Tracy's blog post about her recent Ultra Running Challenge 40 Miles for 40 Years!

ME.

I am a construction manager married with a 5 year old daughter. I have been involved in hiking since 1984 as a young cadet. I got involved in tabbing in 2014 when I completed my first AEE Fan Dance.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Improve my time on FD and undertake some of the other load bearing challenges when the COVID situation allows.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Change my eating habits and taken up running. Also introduced cycling into my training.

MY PLAN FOR 2021 AND BEYOND.

Build up my endurance to under longer challenges and hopefully complete a postponed trip the Switzerland in September.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Taking each day as an individual opportunity to improve. If today’s situation is changed by other commitments then tomorrow is another chance to get it right. To remain flexible enough if that day’s activity has been thwarted then undertake an alternative. But do something.

ME.

55 years old ....firm family man. I feel I didn't make the most of my younger days in regards to testing myself. Making up for lost time now....
Having done a few Fan dances (not quickly I must add) its now time for a new challenge before the ageing process gets the better of me.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Just to keep going and doing events for as long as possible and inspire my young son.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Ignore the people who can't see any point in me doing these events because I’m to old to win.

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Get on top of my game physically and mentally.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Just to crack on, get on with it and stop doubting myself.

ME.

I’m a 52 year old, living in West Yorkshire. I live with my partner and am about to become a grandad for the second time. I love the outdoors and spend as much time as I can outside. We’ve got 2 dogs who happily drag me about and keep me fit.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

Stay fit, healthy and happy. See more of the country, climb hills, Achieve credible times and tabbing events. Meet people with the same interests as me.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

Include dynamic training programmes such as circuits. Incorporating compound lifts to compliment my cv work.

MY PLAN FOR 2020 AND BEYOND.

Coaldale 10 peaks challenge

Yorkshire 3 peaks running

Yorkshire 3 peaks tabbing

Lyke wake walk

PARAS 10 Catterick

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

I’m the end it’s the experience and joy that’s the goal.