Adam Smith is one of over 120 runners who will be taking on the 2018 London Marathon for Muscular Dystrophy UK. He tells us why he is once again taking on the incredible challenge and how he aims to break a world record in the process!
Why are you running the London Marathon for Muscular Dystrophy UK?
"I am running for MDUK because four members of my family have suffered from myotonic dystrophy: my brother (Doug), my mum (Janet), my uncle (John) and my cousin (Chris). Doug is now the only survivor. He is 48, wheelchair-bound and struggling with his arms and other functions. I have raised money for MDUK for a number of years now and have met a number of other people who’s family members are impacted by muscular dystrophy, and what really motivates me is the search for a cure and the funding to help disabled people with their everyday lives. When you realise that what happened to my brother could easily have happened to me (we both had a 50% chance of inheriting the disease from my mum), and how differently our lives have turned out, it really brings it home to you. Doing nothing was not an option for me!"
Can you tell us more about your World Record attempt?
"Hahaha! I have run as the Gnomerunner for a few years now, originally because we always go on holiday to Devon shortly before the London Marathon, and we always go to an odd but very charming Gnome Reserve. The two things got inflated in my friends’ warped minds and they challenged me to run dressed as a gnome. Things have now got out of hand and I am going to run in a ridiculous “gnome on a toadstool” costume (for those over 40, think Bernie Clifton). The toadstool is pretty big, and weighs 2.5kg! I applied to Guinness World Records to set a new world record for a new category of “Fastest marathon dressed as a gnome on a toadstool (male)”, unfortunately this application was turned down, as it was a bit niche! I re-applied and was accepted for “Fastest marathon dressed as a mythical creature" instead.
How is your training and fundraising going in the lead up to the event?
"I am in the fortunate position that I have done a number of marathons before, so I am pretty confident that the training will be fine (aiming for about 4 hours). No injuries so far, I just need to start ramping up the miles and lose the Christmas weight gain. Most of my fundraising tends to be donations from generous friends, family, colleagues and business contacts. Very little so far, but it always tends to be a little bit last minute for me. I have quite a few plans - a sweepstake for my finishing time, a swear box at work (always a winner), possibly a relay marathon for local kids in the village (great idea I have seen before, I will let you all know if this works), and a pub quiz. I often find it helps if you can persuade family and friends to take on a little of the fundraising burden - give them a target and let them get on with it; it helps to spread the load and reach different people."
If you have been inspired by Adam's story and would like to show your support, you can visit his Just giving page at the link below.