Why is it that most motorists seem not to like runners or joggers? Is it because they envy them having the inclination to get up and try to get themselves fit? I ask myself this many times as I try to cross roads on my early morning runs.
The worst offenders are the guys with fags hanging out of their mouths and beer guts hanging over their trousers. They look at me as if I'm the saddo. Maybe they are jealous because they would like to to do it but are addicted to that way of life.
Well, take note. A year ago I was one of those types – a 16st slob, although I didn't smoke. Then I saw the light and decided to do something about it. I slimmed down to 13st, took up running and felt 100 per cent better.
This year, I'm running in the London Marathon. Unable to get my own place, I have a charity place, running on behalf of CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young).
This is a charity very close to my own heart (forgive the pun), as I was born with a heart defect. A school medical picked this up when I was five. I was monitored until I reached the age of 13, when I underwent open-heart surgery. I am now 56 and have had the offending valve changed twice. This will be my first marathon.
So when those motorists pass me or try to knock me down, they should just pause for thought and let what I'm doing be an inspiration – If I can do it with a mechanical heart valve, so can they.
Oh, by the way, I am looking for people or companies to sponsor me in my marathon bid, with all monies going to help the charity CRY. If anyone can help, please contact me.
Paul-John Harris, 30 Glynde Close, Newhaven
