So how has it been, the week which included Friday the 13th? I would say pretty similar to the last, but not quite. For on Friday I had a visitor come and see me. A RAF Squadron Leader to be more precise. At first I failed to recognise him. Once he spoke though, and I looked a bit harder into his face I saw a boy. A nine year old boy to be exact, for that was the last time I saw him.. Sean Leach, the lad I played every summer with, the lad I played cricket with in the garden next to his Dad's farm. The true friend I lost touch with all those years ago had come to say hello.

Sean had seen a poster I placed in the Dining Hall, about The New Year's Day Half Marathon Challenge, and took it upon himself to find me. It turns out we are only working three hangers apart, yet never meet. We spoke for about five minutes, before he had to leave. We have promised to catch up over the coming week or so. I had always wondered where he had gone. I knew he joined the RAF at the first opportunity, straight from school, but never saw him since his family moved away whilst we were at primary school, both aged nine, some 38 years ago. Now that is how to make someone's day!

My rowing continues at a far pace. Saturday saw me pass through 1000 Kilometres, whilst my running total is now passing 750 Kms. Looking at the map I have completed Lands End to John O'Groats, and busy making my way down past Glasgow. Sunday morning saw me with bags of energy and so stepping off the rower after 1 Hour and 32 minutes , that was another 22 Kms completed. I do get a sore backside though.

I have decided on my next major fund raising day. The last Sunday of Jan I am going for 50 Kms, in 4 hours. That will be a fitting end to my challenge, as far as one off events go. My total distance of 2100 Kms should also be nearing completion by then, and if I get the timing correct it will actually be the final distance needed. So now I am staring to increase distance and stamina whilst still rowing every day.

Seriously, if anyone has training tips, or ideas on how to keep the numbness at bay it would be greatly appreciated. I am needed all the help I can muster some days. Let me know.

Bernie Heaysman

www.justgiving.com/bernie-heaysman