A Dune Run Ron Ron
Tuesday, 02 March, 2010
ONE of the Constabulary's most accomplished runners is on her marks for the gruelling 150-mile 'Marathon des Sables' across the Sahara Desert in aid of two worthwhile charities next month.
Inspector Veronica ('Ron') Singleton, who is based at Police Headquarters in Welwyn Garden City and works as the Chief Constable's staff officer, travels to Morocco on April 1 in readiness to hot foot it across the desert for what is widely regarded as the 'toughest foot race on Earth'.
Ron, who lives near Bedford, will be covering 18 and 50 miles each day over the six-day event carrying her kit, food, cooking equipment and sleeping bag on her back. Her accommodation consists of communal bivouacs at each overnight camp.
With three months of rigorous training behind her, Ron admits that this year's tough winter in the UK not been ideal preparation for the 30-plus degree temperatures she will face in the desert.
Ron said: "I've got many years' experience of competing as a club runner and have taken part in 35 marathons since the early 1980s, but I don't think anything can really prepare me for the toughest physical and mental challenge I've ever undertaken."
Ron aims to raise £3,000 (£1,500 each for Cancer Research UK and the Salvation Army). She explained: "I've lost so many people dear to me through cancer, including my father, mother-in-law and sister so will be running in memory of them and with the aim of raising as much money as possible. I'm also passionate about the non-judgmental work that my other chosen charity, the Salvation Army, does for vulnerable people, especially the lonely, homeless, elderly and domestic violence victims.
"I know that money is tight for many at the moment, but any donations that people are willing to make in aid of these two fantastic charities would be very much appreciated."
To support Ron's efforts, visit:
www.bmycharity.com/V2/ronsingletonmdscancerresearch
and
www.justgiving.co.uk/ronsingletonmdssalvationarmy
More information about the Marathon des Sables can be found at:
www.saharamarathon.co.uk
