RUN FOR WILDLIFE Secret World fundraiser and Volunteer, Nicholas Van Dorp


Early in 2010 I began training for a half marathon and still remember how hard I found it to run just half a mile to start with! I just about managed to stick to a training plan and then in the summer decided to find a charity to raise funds for which is when I discovered Secret World. As it happened there was an open weekend at this time so I was able to go along and really see what it was all about. After spending some


happier for it and the sense of achievement when completing an event and successfully raising sponsorship is fantastic.


The fundraising


time at the centre and talking with staff and volunteers I decided that this was the charity for me and felt that funds raised would be well used and make a real difference to the welfare of animals cared for at the centre.


I soon started getting sponsorship pledges in and discovered that many people were interested in and supportive of the work the centre does. Through this support and encouragement I got back into my training with renewed enthusiasm and started building up the miles. Unfortunately I then picked up an injury three weeks before my event but after a check-up from a specialist decided to continue anyway and successfully ran the whole race.


After some recovery time I resumed my training and have now just completed a full marathon in Wales to raise further funds for the centre. I would recommend running to anybody thinking about it, even if you feel you are not fit enough you will be surprised how much you can improve. I started slowly and am now 4.5 stone lighter, far fitter and


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the long miles and steep hills of the marathon gained motivation by thinking about the many animals we look after and the positive difference that Secret World makes to their lives.


Are you interested in running for Wildlife?


Secret World has places for the Bristol Half Marathon taking place on Sunday 11th September 2011. For a registration form please email debbie@secretworld.org or contact the fundraising team on Tel: 01278 783250


For events taking place in your local area please visit the Runners World website www.runnersworld.co.uk where you can choose from a variety of different runs. You can enter many events online and set yourself whatever challenge suits from a 5K amble to a full marathon. Whatever challenge you choose, we would love to hear from you so we can help you ‘Run for Wildlife’!


co-ordinators at Secret World are incredibly supportive and there are now many running clubs around that have beginner groups to help you get started. I now also volunteer at the centre and during


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