In early May last year I started a virtual Lands End to John O’Groats walking challenge. I wrote

This started because I wanted to do something to mark the final year of my 40s. I didn’t necessarily intend it to be a walking challenge. But an article in a newspaper, which I was using to protect the table while playing with clay stayed in my mind as I found myself wondering about it. I did a bit of research and discovered this one which started a few days after my 49th birthday. It has a map that gets updated with progress, sends me virtual postcards and, assuming I make it to (virtual) John O’Groats before the 1st of May next year then I get a medal.

As I now approach my 50th birthday, I can say that it worked. I’ve had a very active year and have finished 3 virtual challenges.

I’ve done:


So that’s 1533.40 miles I’ve logged in total. Or an average of 4.2 miles per day, every day of my 49th year. I’ve definitely been more active, and these virtual challenges have contributed to that.

Must admit, I’m feeling pretty pleased with myself.