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The last time I undertook a formal run I stopped for a cigarette half way round. Thankfully I have since mended my ways. I no longer smoke and I cycle over 100 miles a week, but running is very new to me and I have just begun my "conditioning" training. I am very grateful to be given this opportunity to run for Mali. As I write I am 1 week and 6 runs into my training schedule and run at dawn with a soundtrack of Ali Farka Toure and the Super Rail band. This helps me keep tempo and reminds me of the vibrancy and warmth of the Mali culture, the people and the country. I am delighted to have the opportunity to run the marathon for Mali Development Group and Jeunesse et Developpement, the partner agency in Mali. I have been fortunate to see at first hand the work that J and D undertakes in Mali and see the organisation as an important example of how, at a local level communities can be supported to develop to improve the lives of the people who live within them and ensure better opportunities for future generations. As I run through the winter and through the aches and pains that probably come with the training, I will feel immensely proud to have this opportunity to contribute to the work undertaken for people of Mali, who matter and who benefit from the work and financial support provided through MDG.
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