A BOROUGH marathon runner will face the ultimate challenge next month when tackling the world famous London Marathon.
For Dorridge resident Paul Lamaison, Sunday (April 24) will mark his second full marathon after previously completing the Edinburgh marathon in 2009.
However this time, the 42-year-old will be raising funds and awareness for his employers chosen charity – NSPCC.
A team member at Salesforce by trade, Paul will join nine colleagues for the marathon as they aim to collectively raise £50,000 for the charity that helps combat domestic abuse to children in society.
As part of his job requirement, Paul must complete seven days of charity work each year – and he has previously completed the London to Paris cycle ride, a mini triathlon and helped out at Kenilworth’s Dogs Trust.
However 2016 will bring a fresh challenge as Paul will fulfill one of his childhood ambitions when lining up at the start-line for the London Marathon.
The father-of-two told The Observer that his training preparation has gone well and he’s hopeful that the £50,000 target can be reached.
He added: “It’s been a while since I last completed a full marathon but my training is going well and we have an achievable team target of £50,000 – which we’ve raised nearly £38,000 already.
“I’m looking forward to running through the crowd, people have told me it’s an amazing experience and it will keep you going through the final few miles.
“I took part in plenty of physical activities when I was younger from rowing to body building and I enjoyed it.
“A couple of people have dropped out with injury but I’ll be wearing my name with plenty of pride.”
Paul admitted that this may be his last chance to complete a marathon and he’s hoping to grasp the opportunity with both hands.
Paul said: “I’m excited and I’m getting on a bit now so it may be my last marathon.
“I tend to complete a physical challenge each year – a good time will be great but what’s most important is that we have fun and raise some money for the NSPCC in the process.”
To help Paul and his colleagues raise £50,000 for the NSPCC, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/salesforcelondonmarathon2016
