Local runner begins his training countdown

It's fair to say that Ealing father of two, Richard Baker, likes a challenge. He completed the Ealing-half marathon in a fantastic 1hr.53m and is now in training for the London Marathon which he is hoping to complete in less than 4 hours.

The Virgin London Marathon takes place on April 21st 2013. It combines elite athletics, mass participation and record-breaking fundraising in one race.

The course is a gruelling 26 miles 385 yards long, passing through the streets of London from Blackheath to the famous finish line at The Mall.

This will be Richard's 5th marathon - but the last was eight years ago. This time he will be raising money for the charity Children with Cancer.

He says: '' I am lucky to have 2 healthy boys, but know that not everyone is so fortunate, so as I was approaching my 40th year I decided that I would run the marathon for the last time (I said this last time) for a charity that I have supported from a distance (raffle tickets and an annual donation) for some time.

''The London Marathon is always difficult for a few reasons, 1) the training is done mainly during the cold and dark winter months and 2) It's a long way - granted the same distance as any other marathon, but still, a long way.''

You can follow Richard's training schedule on Ealing Today as he will be sending regular updates.

Please support Richard:

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RichBaker

19th November 2012