Kieran Gaywood

Real Miles, Real Minds: Why I’m Taking On the Cheltenham Half Marathon

We talk a lot about physical fitness, but for me, running started as a way to clear my head.

During my early days at university, I went through a pretty rough patch with anxiety and my mental health. It’s a struggle I know all too well, and one I’ve watched many close friends and family members go through, too. When things felt overwhelming, I started running. It became my escape, my routine, and my therapy.

Now, I’m taking that personal lifeline and turning it into something bigger. I’ve officially signed up for the Cheltenham Half Marathon, and I’m doing it to raise vital funds for Mental Health UK.

Some of you might remember that back in November, I cycled 100km and raised £450 for Movember. That opened my eyes to how much of a difference we can make when people come together. But this time, I wanted to push myself even harder.

My running journey actually started quite recently, back in October. My very first 5K took me 39 minutes. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with the sport becoming a regular at Parkrun, heading out for runs with friends, and slowly improving  my PBs. Today, my 5K PB is down to 21:30.

In April I did my first half marathon with a time of 2:10:00. But for my first official race, I’m looking to beat it with a time of 1:50:00.

I want to prove what’s possible when you focus your mind and put in the work. By this time next year I aim to complete my first full marathon!

How You Can Help

I'll be tackling the streets of Cheltenham solo, but I can't do the fundraising part alone. Mental Health UK does incredible work supporting people when they need it most, ensuring no one has to face depression, anxiety, or isolation by themselves.

If you are able to donate, even just the price of a coffee, it would mean the world to me and keep me moving through the tough training blocks ahead. If you can’t donate, sharing this post is just as valuable.

Thank you for the support, the encouragement, and for being part of this next chapter. Let’s see what these legs can do.