Good company inspires George’s 1200km challenge
Monday, June 28th, 2021
When George Osborn took on the challenge of running 100k every month throughout 2021 to raise funds for us, he didn’t realise what a valuable part his friends would play in keeping his efforts going.
George, who’s a hugely valued ambassador and friend of the charity, was inspired to run partly to tackle the tedium of lockdown by a friend who motored through 1000 miles in 2020. It’s a commitment that’s proved unshakeable, even through the cold and rainy start to the year.
“When it’s a choice of either sitting indoors by yourself or sitting indoors by yourself on a different chair, going for a run was such a thrill that I was willing to tolerate running on an empty stomach on cold dark winter mornings.”
But his biggest motivation to persevere has been the support of his friends during his runs.
“It’s been a lovely surprise that so many have found time to tag along on runs with me. I feel like I’m in the middle of some weird friend relay – with me being passed from person to person to make sure I achieve my goal – it’s kept me inspired.”
Not that all his friends are quite in tune with his efforts. “Some of the people I play seven-a-side football with think I’m a lunatic for running to and from our Tuesday kickabouts. But when it adds 5km to the total each week, I find it hard not to.”
George has this advice for anyone thinking of embarking on a similar challenge, such as all his games industry colleagues who will be ramping up their London 10k training over the next few weeks.
“Find a schedule that’s healthy for you. You can’t achieve something like this if you injure yourself, so it’s important to find out what’s sensible for you as an individual. I aim to run every other day to give myself recovery time between activities. It works for me, but ultimately you know your own body and what you’re comfortable with so build a sustainable plan around that to keep yourself in good condition.”
Wise words, George, and huge thanks for taking on this epic challenge for us. We wish you all the very best in the coming months and we’re so glad that your fantastic friends are with you all the way. Well, until their legs give out at least.
You can support George’s push to hit his £1200 target here.
Below: George is looking forward to joining SpecialEffect’s #TeamLondon for the upcoming London 10k as part of his challenge. Places are still available to run either locally or with George at the event in London on Sunday 25 July.
