Running To Remember

17 AUG2011

Alastair McMurray, a 50 year-old oncology pharmacist from Stirling, is planning on running a half marathon a day during the month of September. What's more, Alastair plans to run each half marathon in under two hours and hopes to fit the majority in during his lunch-break.

Alastair, who describes himself as 'not a natural runner', only came up with the challenge in May this year after deciding he wanted to do 'something a bit mental'. He aims to work regular hours during the month of his challenge by running each half marathon either before going to work or during an extended lunch-break.

More used to playing football or tennis, Alastair's running career took off after a freak cycling injury during a triathlon, resulting in two prolapsed metal disks being inserted in his neck. The relative lack of neck movement running requires, he explains, was one of the first reasons he took to the track.

Since he came up with the September - 30 half marathons idea less than three months ago, Alastair has been running an average of 50-60 miles per week in preparation for this mammoth challenge. Due to work and family commitments - Alastair has three young children - he splits his training routine into two 15-mile runs at the weekend and shorter stints throughout the week.

Alastair's primary source of motivation, however, is the memory of his close friend and running enthusiast Pat Beausang, who died of leukaemia in 2009. Alastair will be fundraising for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research and also hopes to raise awareness about a subject that is often misapprehended. Alastair commented: "People think leukaemia is only a children's disease but it can also affect adults, Pat's drastic decline happened within three weeks."

During his month of half-marathons, Alastair will be taking part in the Great Scottish Run on Sunday, September 4. If you would like to donate and help Alastair reach his target you can visit his justgiving page.