A STUDLEY woman has finally been accepted to run the London marathon – after having her applications denied for the past seven years.
Hannah Osbourne first applied to run the London marathon seven years ago after her grandad Donald passed away from Leukaemia aged 89.
Keen to raise money for leukaemia charity Bloodwise in his memory, she applied to run the marathon – a dream she has held since childhood.
However, she was not selected, and despite applying every year for the next six consecutive years, she was unsuccessful every time – until now.
“i’m so excited to finally be doing this,” said the 32 year-old.
“I’ve been training ever since I found out – and I’m not actually nervous at all yet. I’m just looking forward to it.”
Having never really run before in her life, Hannah has taken to the challenge head on and has been working hard with a personal trainer to hone her running style and build up her fitness levels.
“I’ve not had much of a life outside the gym since I began my training, but I’m getting fitter, healthier and losing a bit of weight too, so I’m sure it will all be worth it.
“Most people who know me would never have expected me to got through with this – but I am determined to do it and to raise money for leukaemia research too.
“I know my grandad would be so proud of me and that I am raising money for Bloodwise so we can beat blood cancer one day.”
Hannah will be running the London Marathon on April 23, with her parents cheering her on all the way.
To support her and donate to the good cause, visit http://bit.ly/2o9S13o
