If you've ever smiled at the thought of competing in a marathon or a half marathon then now is the time to act on it.

 

That's the message from Peterborough resident Mike Hare, who went from never running a single step to competing in a half-marathon in the space of six months.

 

The Great Eastern Run 2008 will take place on October 12 and Mike, known as The Incredible Shrinking Man for slimming down from 28 stone to just under 13 stone in two-and-a-half-years, is encouraging residents to sign up.

 

Mike will be competing in the Peterborough half-marathon for the first time and wants others to do the same, whether it's the half-marathon at just over 13 miles or the fun run which is approximately 5km.

 

"Even if you don't feel you can manage the main race then set yourself a goal of doing the fun run which would be a great start if you've never competed in an event before," said Mike, 54.

 

"If you don't think you can do it then I am here to tell you that it is absolutely possible. It's one of those things that if you've ever entertained the thought of doing and thought it would be a good thing to do, then don't spend the rest of your life thinking it would be good, get out there and do it!"

 

Mike has been an inspiration to many and has already completed the 2007 Great North Run and this year's Flora London Marathon and Sleaford half-marathon.

 

However, up until two-and-a-half-years years ago Mike weighed 28 stone and had never run a single step in his life.

After a car accident, he started dramatically improving his diet, taking up walking as gentle exercise and then 18 months later he joined a gym. Prompted by a wager with his GP, a few months later in March 2007 he started to run.

 

Mike said: "If my story helps just one person improve their quality of life by taking part in the Great Eastern Run and by making the most of all the free support and training advice then I will be very happy."

 

For more information about Mike's incredible story, go to www.tism.co.uk or call 07803 753399.

 

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