Halfway through!!!

I am pleased to report that I am now over halfway through my challenge. On Tuesday I did my second two hours of table tennis at Cheltenham Premier Table Tennis club, which was my tenth sport ticked off the list! I feel quite happy with my table tennis escapades, I am now able to spin the ball and do a decent rally. I even beat someone in a little mini match too so had a small victory.

I am a one woman sports machine at the moment- I have started wheelchair rugby and have my final session on Saturday, I went diving yesterday and have 2 more sessions left (await a blog post with pics and maybe even a video in 2 weeks). I loved my first diving session and can't wait for next week. I should be doing sitting volleyball as we speak but it helps if you take kit to work if going straight from there...... (so will be doing it next week). I have also had contact from a local rowing club today too so from next Saturday I will be doing that too.

Just a quick update about what's going on with my Gold Challenge. Here's the usual bit, if you are able to sponsor me, even if it's just a pound as every penny helps. I am raising money for Dementia UK who support all affected by dementia and help fund Admiral Nurses (like me!!!) If you can sponsor me, you can do here. Thank you.

My Big Athletics Comeback!!

On bank holiday Monday I made my big return to the athletics track! Well, big return may be stretching it but I was definitely there! For the Gold Challenge you have to take part in 3 hours of training or a competitive event, so thought I would do a couple of athletics events. I haven't starting running yet so entered a couple of field events- shot put and javelin.

If you remember me from my athletics days (I hung up my spikes about 10 years ago) you may remember that I was rubbish at throwing, I have always had the upper body strength of a gnat and when it comes to chucking things I just have no oomph, but, I always enjoyed doing it.

Steve and I turned up to the Prince of Wales Stadium in Cheltenham for the Brewer Games and entered on the day. I was surprised how quiet the meeting was, events were multi age group, but still people were entered in every event. I have memories of the Spartan Open etc. where all the 100metres events had 4-5 heats with semis and finals and that definitely wasn't happening here! I'm not sure whether that's the sign of the times, the fact it was slap bang in the middle of the Jubilee weekend or because it was more of a 'fun' meeting with non championship events (1k etc.) and no medals. Saying that, the same old atmosphere was there with lots of support and cheering for every event.

My first event was the Shot Put. When I was young Shot was probably my least favourite of the field events. I don't think I had picked up a Shot since at least the under 17 age group- and that is many years ago now! All I needed to remember was to push the shot (not throw it away from my neck) and to walk out the back. My first two throws were legal and I got the very long distance of 3.92. My last 2 throws were no throws for throwing it away from my neck. I was happy with that- it's not long but it was a mark and that's what I came for!

After a couple of hours of spectating it was time for the javelin. I used to love javelin when I was younger, as I said above I was not 'naturally talented' at it, but really enjoyed it. Our competition consisted of under 15s up so were about 15 people competing so I didn't get a chance for a practice throw (but doubt that would have made a difference anyway). When throwing the javelin it has to land point downwards. I was very pleased that all 4 of my throws were legal. My throws weren't long- I got the grand distance of 7.93 but baring in mind my PB was on 10.28 when younger I don't think it was that bad (for me!)

I had loads of fun at the athletics track and I really got the bug to get into it again. I am going to start slowly jogging at the start of June to see if my knee tolerates it and Cheltenham Harriers have a series of open meetings in July that I am hoping to do a couple more events. I am also hoping to do a 5k park run before the end of my challenge too. There are also a couple of local clubs that look welcoming so I am determined to join and properly get back into it (it's got to help with operation size 8 wedding dress too!)

Next week I am doing my first rifle shooting session on Monday and have my final table tennis session on Thursday. I am waiting for lots of clubs to get back to me but I am hoping to squeeze another sport in next week- I am thinking it will be wheelchair rugby on Saturday but I am waiting for confirmation. Will let you know.


As usual- here is my usual plea! I am doing all these sports to raise money for Dementia UK. I am getting closer to my goal of £2012 but still have a little way to go. If you can help at all- even if it is only a pound please do. You can sponsor me here.  Dementia UK do amazing work helping people who are affected by dementia and improving quality of life. They support Admiral Nurses (like me) and help carers nationwide. Dementia UK is an awesome cause and every penny helps them.

More fencing and table tennis.

For my Gold Challenge this week I did another 2 sports sessions. On Wednesday I did another session of fencing. Don't you think I look rather fetching in all my gear? During this week's session it did take it's toll a little bit on my knee and I had to sit out of the free fencing at the end, but managed to do most of it and am learning more and

more. We have been learning different attacking and defensive moves and I am slowly getting used to all the parrying, blocking etc. The fencing beginner's course is really good, Cotswold Fencing Club run them a few times a year and they are a great taster to the sport. They are trying to make fencing more accessable as most people only get the oppertunity to do fencing at public school or university and they're doing a great job. The club is doing really well. It's my last week doing fencing next week (there is another week of the course but I am away with work so can't make the last week) so will have to make a big effort next week (and make sure that knee is strapped up well!)

On Thursday I went along to Cheltenham Premier Table Tennis Club (yes, I found it this time). The Club play in the sports halls of Cheltenham (was ladies) College, this one was in the junior school. I arrived exactly at 7pm and was a little concerned that there was only me and the coach there but within 10 minutes the hall was full. We had about 10 tables and they all had at least 2 people playing. There were a few seniors playing in a mini league and about 20 children playing too. I was surprised by the numbers there. I started off playing with the club secretary, even though I knew he was going very easy on me I was happy I was able to keep the rallies going and wasn't making a complete arse of myself. When he went off to play his league match I was left with the coach and got about an hour of 1-1 training. My earlier confidence was quickly gone when I realised how tough table tennis is. I managed to adequately do forehand and backhand serves and managed a few spins. He did try and help me do a return shot I can only call the 'swish' as that's what you do with your hips. I failed quite miserably. That's my aim for my next session, to master the swish. They're shut for half term next week so I'll be back for my final session the week after.

I have a few more sports planned for next week. Going to an athletics open meeting on Monday to do some throws (not up for running yet). Any athletes got any hints? It has been many years since I picked up a shot put, then on Wednesday I have my final fencing session. That will take me to 10 events- half way there! The next Monday Steve and I are going to do a session of rifle shooting, am quite excited about that. Over the last few days I have been emailing local sports clubs. I have contacted the kayaking, gymnastics and (gulp) diving. I am scared about doing diving but it will be a real achievment if I can do a proper dive by the end of it (from of course a lower board). Luckily 5metre is their highest as I wouldn't go near a 10metre!

As usual I have my little beg for sponsorship at the bottom. I am aiming to raise £2012 by the opening ceremony for Dementia UK, even if you can only sponsor me a pound it all helps.You can sponsor me here. If you don't want to sponsor me online you can tweet, FB me or email me at littlebethan@yahoo.co.uk and I can give you the details.

Thank you :-)

Badminton, boccia and failing to get to other sports.

I had planned for this week to be a very busy Gold Challenge week but it didn't quite go to plan so it ended up being a bit of a busy Gold Challenge week instead. I planned to go to table tennis on Tuesday evening with a local club, was quite excited as it is held in Cheltenham College in all of it's public school glory, but I got lost so didn't make it- but know where I'm going, so will be there next week.

On Wednesday I went along to Pitville Badminton Club and had an amazing time (even though my arm still aches). We basically spent the whole evening playing doubles matches. I lost every match but one of them went to a tie break. I still don't understand the rules of who serves when, something to do with left to right odd and even numbers..... maybe one day I'll get it. I had a great time playing with them and it is definately on the list to want to do when I have finished the challenge (only 70 days left eeeeekkkk).

On Thursday tea time I hopped on the train up to Bromsgrove to play boccia with the Bromsgrove Boccia Bears. I was really looking forward to doing boccia (and I know I have been blogging about it for a while). Boccia is similar to French Boules and was created for people with cerebral palsy and now anyone with a disability can play. There was a very big turn out and we split into 3 games and started playing. The basic idea of the game is that you're either on the red or blue team and you're given 2 balls in the colour of your team. The balls are hard or soft depending on ability/ skill (I had a soft balls because they're the easiest to play with) and someone throws the jack and the teams try and get their balls closest. My team ended up winning about 7-1 (would love to say it is something to do with my skill, but I was rubbish!) I had great fun at boccia, the whole group were really friendly and welcomed me (and didn't laugh at my terrible efforts). I am going to try and go back before the end of my Gold Challenge because I would love to have another go.

After Boccia on Thursday I rushed home to go straight out to fencing with Steve. We turned up only to find out that fencing is on a Wednesday (we went last Wednesday but for some reason thought it was on Thursday nights). FAIL. We'll to fencing after we see the Olympic Torch next Wednesday (will someone make sure we get the right day next week??).

Next week I will be doing table tennis Tuesday and Thursday (I will not get lost this time), fencing on WEDNESDAY (I will remember), and of course I am going to be inspired by the torch relay next week. I am also going to book a couple of rifle shooting sessions in the next few weeks to get another sport done.

As you know I am doing my Gold Challenge to raise money for Dementia UK, if you are able to sponsor me you can here. Thank you.

Foiled with fencing.

After a quiet few months while my knee recovered I am back on the challenge with fencing. On Thursday Steve and I walked round to a local secondary school to start our beginners course. Now, Steve was the captain of his school fencing club so he is not strictly a beginner so he took to it like a duck to water but I have a feeling I'm not going to be a natural fencer. I was a little concerned about all the lunging with my knee- my physio assured me that I'd be fine and with a few adjustments to my stance it held up really well.

It is a six week course and on the first session we learnt the basic stances, moving forwards and backwards, basic attacking and defending and we did a bit of sparring at the end. It was great fun and a really good workout- especially doing it in the armour and helmet.

I am in the last few months of my challenge now. I have to get cracking to get all the sports done by the Olympics but I will complete the challenge. Typically, lots of the sports clubs I have found seem to be on a Thursday evening so I think I'll be busy on a Thursday until my challenge ends. I have lots of sports in the pipeline and will keep you updated as I go along.

I have done so well with my fundraising so far, but as it's the 2012 Olympics I am determined to raise £2012 for Dementia UK. Please have a look at their page to see the amazing work that they do. If you are able to sponsor me, you can here. Even if it is only £1, it will be greatly appreciated.

I will post more about my fencing course as it goes on as well as my other sports (with pictures when I get a new Dementia UK T Shirt as my other one had a washing machine incident with a pair of red jeans!)

The day I ran at the Olympics.

Yesterday was my big day- I got to do my 100 metres in the Olympic Stadium. I got the opportunity to take part in the Gold Challenge Olympic Stadium Event for being a top fundraiser and getting over the £1500 sponsorship mark.

I had my knee operation almost 2 months ago now, and I was hoping 2 months post op I would be able to at least jog the 100 metres but unfortunately my 'recovery' isn't exactly going according to plan and when I saw the consultant 2 weeks ago he gave me the great news that I can chuck the splint in the bin and the bad news that I need to go back on crutches- so that's that's how I 'ran' my 100 metres, walking on my crutches.

Back to The Olympics. Steve and I got on a coach down to London yesterday morning and hopped (literally) on the tube to Stratford. It was great to get a first look at the Olympic Park, it is dominated by the stadium and has the swimming, water polo and basketball arenas near and also the Olympic Village. They are still doing work on it- but it looks amazing. When we got to the stadium my we got directed through the disabled access so we didn't have to queue (benefit of crutches #1) and Steve made his way up to the stadium and I made my way to prepare for my race. While waiting for my race I got to watch all the participants of the parade, and didn't freak out too much when the mascots came past (think Whitley Bay). I was in the top fundraising group and within our group the participants ranged from serious athletes, a man dressed as a rhino and a 5 year old girl. Each group was split into 2 (one race on back straight and one on front straight) and found that my race was me and the serious athletes. We got led into the stadium- into the warm up track first. The warm up track is inside and was massive! I hope that after the Olympics it holds some junior sports hall athletics competitions because it would be amazing for that. There were some very motivating helpers in the warm up area getting us warmed up- I had to politely decline the star jumps and lunges! We were then led out on to the track- there were about 20,000 people there so the atmosphere was amazing! We were led out to the back straight and the other group went first. After watching the rhino sprint I am relieved he wasn't in my heat.

Then it was time for my race. I obviously didn't do a crouch start as it takes me about 5 minutes to get up off the floor. The gun went and we were off. Well, from my view at the back it was a very good race with some good sprinters. Within about 20 seconds the rest of the race was finished (and I had covered about 20 metres) and all attention was on me! The crowd support was amazing and they got louder and louder the closer I got to the finish. I was on the big screen for the majority of my race so got loads of great support. The experience was amazing and I am so glad that I decided to do it. My aim was not to trip over and make it to the finish and that's exactly what I did.After my race we got our medals and Gold Challenge T Shirts and made our way up to the stand. I was able to watch the last few races and some of the entertainment before me made our way back home to Cirencester.

The whole day was an amazing experience and I am so glad to be given the opportunity. The stadium is awesome and the atmosphere was great. I have woken up today with aching arms from the crutches (hoping it's toning my arms up- benefit of crutches #2). I am exhausted but it was so worth it.The Olympic Stadium Event is over but I still have a way to go on my Gold Challenge.

Thank you to everyone who has sponsored me so far as you helped me raise enough to go to The Olympics! I have boccia (I have recently learnt it's pronounced botcha), shooting and maybe dinghy sailing in the next month or so and I am hoping to try sitting volleyball, goalball and wheelchair rugby when I have recovered a bit more. Of course there is still plenty of time to sponsor me if you haven't already. The challenge goes all the way to the Olympics. You can do that here.

It is for Dementia UK, an amazing cause.

Thank you again to everyone who has supported me- it is very very much appreciated

Sport Number 3. Archery

About 5 weeks I started ago beginner's archery course at Black and Gold Archers in Cheltenham. This was a 2 hour course weekly. Unfortunately due to my operation and my inability to get to Cheltenham on the bus I haven't been able to complete the whole course (6 weeks) but managed to do the first four sessions so did more than enough hours to complete what was needed for my Gold Challenge. I really enjoyed the sessions I did, and I was actually quite good** at it. We learnt how to score, the basics of shooting, how to string a bow and had lots of practice shooting. This is definitely my favourite sport I have done so far and would like to give it a go again. I am gutted I wasn't able to complete the beginner's course but I know there will be another in the autumn so if it's in my favourite couple of sports after I finish the Gold Challenge I will go back and do it. As you know, I am doing the Gold Challenge to raise money for Dementia UK who help improve the quality of life of people affected by Dementia. If you're able to sponsor me for my challenge you can do here. I'm going to book my next sport when my knee is feeling a little better (it's slowly improving) which will be rifle shooting and when it's even more improved I am thinking about doing wheelchair rugby. This scares me lots as it looks very hardcore, but looks fun too. Thank you. **wasn't horrendously bad.