Inspirational tales lead Gazette reporter Tomto lace up his running shoes

But, after hearing the tear-jerking stories of some of the runners taking part in this year’s Chestnut Tree House coastal 10k, I couldn’t help but be inspired.

That – combined with all the incredible stories at both the Olympic and Paralympic Games – led me to sign up to take part in this month’s run.

Now, to put things in perspective, the last time I ran any sort of distance, that was further than a simple dash from the car to the front door in a vain attempt to avoid the spells of lashing rain, was probably about two years ago.

So, with little more than two weeks to shape up for my first 10k, I may have bitten off more than I can chew.

I stepped out on Thursday morning (August 30) for my first tester run – only a mile or so. I thought it wouldn’t be too tricky. How wrong I was...

After a few hundred yards I was already spluttering and wheezing as if I had just completed two marathons – back-to-back and while pulling a car.

It was sluggish, ungainly, and a rather pathetic affair.

But I did complete it in a fairly average time of seven(ish) minutes.

However, I’m the sort of person who will keep trying, regardless of how disappointing my performance may be.

So, after finishing my second run, I’d managed to chip 15 seconds off my time.

I know I’m still only taking baby steps at the moment and I haven’t even attempted the full distance yet, but I’m on the right track.

I’m determined to complete the 10k. With my money paid, name on the list and microchip and race number issued, everything is becoming very real, very quickly.

Fingers crossed I – like the hundreds of other runners set to take part – will somehow pull it out of the bag... Hopefully.