This year, our Managing Director, Jason Nettle, is taking on the mammoth challenge of running 12 marathons in 12 months, all raising money for Cancer Research UK, Prostate Cancer UK, Naomi House Childrens Hospice, and St Michaels Hospice. 

The first run is January 30th, and Jason will be joined by Managing Director Amy, and Financial Controller Virginia. Starting at our Liss branch and finishing at our Winchester Romsey Road branch, they'll be taking in some beautiful Hampshire scenery along the way! 

Keep an eye out on our website and social media pages for more throughout the year, but enough from us, here's what Jason has to say:

From 5K Struggles to 12 Marathons: Am I Mad?

Last year, I struggled to run 5 kilometres. Now, I'm about to embark on a challenge that even makes my knees rattle more than a well used lawnmower – 12 marathons in 12 months.

Yes, you’ve read that right. 

In the past, I've witnessed the superhuman feats of others, driven by worthy causes. Believe me, I'm no marathon runner. I'm more of a "enjoy a good Sunday roast" kind of guy so what could be more ludicrously ambitious than running 26.2 miles every single month for a year? I'm not exactly known for my athletic prowess or renowned for my gazelle-like grace.  The thought of running a single marathon is daunting enough, let alone twelve.  This, my friends, is not going to be a walk in the park but is in fact, a recipe for spectacular, self-inflicted pain!

The Garden Machinery industry can be a bit of a rollercoaster. At times the long hours, high pressure and too many coffee fuelled meetings can take their toll. Then out of season, let's not forget the dealer conferences. You know the drill: late nights, enjoying ourselves a little too much, propping up the bar a bit longer than we should and waking up the next morning feeling less than spring-like.  Let's be honest, traditionally, we men in the Garden Machinery industry aren't always the best at looking after ourselves.

This 12-marathon challenge is about more than just running; I’m hoping that it's a wake-up call for all of us. It's time to prioritise our health and well-being. Whether it's trading in some of those late nights for early morning exercise, making healthier food choices or simply scheduling that long-overdue doctor's appointment, let's make a conscious effort to take better care of ourselves.

Service Dealer will be allowing me to share monthly updates on my progress throughout the year. In these updates, I'll touch on various topics related to health and well-being as well as what I've been doing to keep myself on track. If, in the process, I can encourage even just one person to go and get a simple PSA test (a blood test to check for prostate cancer), then I will have achieved something truly worthwhile. Early detection is key, and it's something we men often neglect.

I'm raising money for four incredible charities: Cancer Research UK, Prostate Cancer UK, Naomi House and St. Michael's Hospice. These charities do amazing work both locally and across the UK.  I know firsthand how important their work is.

So, how can you help?

• Sponsor me: Every penny counts. You can donate directly to my fundraising page HERE
• Cheer me on: Whether it's at the side of a course or from the comfort of your armchair, your support will be invaluable. You can follow the story on our Facebook or Instagram pages! 
• Get inspired: Use my challenge as a motivator to get more active yourself. Maybe start with a brisk walk around the block, ditch the lift and take the stairs or join me

This is going to be a tough year but I'm determined to see it through. Hopefully, by the end of it, I'll be fitter, stronger and have made a real difference to the lives of others. Plus, maybe I'll even be able to run up a hill without gasping for air.

Wish me luck!

YOU CAN DONATE DIRECTLY AT www.justgiving.com/team/jasons-marathon-madness