I thought I’d share a quick email on my March in March challenge — now successfully completed, although not always gracefully!
The original plan, formed with the Royal British Legion in Bracknell, was a very sensible 10 miles. However, having completed that with weeks to spare, I made the classic mistake of thinking, “why not make it 100?” — and so the challenge escalated rather quickly.
What followed was a mix of enthusiasm, questionable decision-making, and a growing appreciation for comfortable footwear.
Highlights included:
Marching to and from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst for a meeting — because driving would have been far too sensible
Exploring Swinley Forest, where I can confirm the hills are both scenic and entirely unnecessary
A cultural interlude in Soho, proving that not all miles involve mud and mild regret
And of course, several “extra” miles courtesy of missed paths, which I’m generously counting as bonus effort.
The grand finale was particularly memorable. Having planned to finish in style over the weekend, I was instead introduced to a rather persistent cold. Undeterred (or perhaps just stubborn), I set out to complete the final miles feeling less than 100%.
The result was a highly technical walking rhythm best described as:
cough… step… cough… step… repeat…
After an hour and a quarter, the final miles were complete — not the longest walk of the month, but without doubt the hardest.
In total:
👟 101 miles completed
🤧 Countless coughs endured
🧠Several navigational “opportunities” embraced
All of this was, of course, in support of the incredible work you do. As Armed Forces Champion for Bracknell Town Council, I see how important that support is, and I’m proud to have played a small part in raising awareness and funds.
Thank you again for everything you do for veterans and their families — it’s genuinely appreciated.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to sit down for a while and reconsider any future “good ideas”.
