BELIEVE - was the word, the 'mantra', for running from Buckingham palace to Windsor castle, aka The Royal FKT, in aid of cancer research UK. In current COVID times charity sector is one of the hardest hit in UK. Hence, i wanted to do my bit to contribute to much needed revenue for cancer, a cause close to my heart. I chose 15th august because its the day when india became a free country. Hence, i want to take a small step to make this world free for cancer. My fund raising page can be viewed here - https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/running-from-buckingham-palace-to-windsor-castle
The Royal FKT route has always intrigued me given its studded with so many historic places. Particularly the section where it goes from runnymede, where magna carta was signed, the values of 'everyone is equal before law' is still so relevant. I was supported by my lovely wife on bike. It was a big challenge for her too as she never rode such a long distance. Also, we decided to go east to west ie Buckingham Palace to Windsor castle so that we can avoid travelling in public transport one way at the least so that we reduce the possibilities of any exposure to covid infection.
It wasn't an ideal start. While biking to start at Buckingham palace I got a hamstring niggle which would become a big issue later during run. I started easy and whenever I was trying to get into another gear my hamstring was getting painful and heavy. Kept going with consistent pace and after 50k it was a grind. I hit couple of big lows and legs were just not there, moreover it became increasingly humid. A quick dip in Thames after old windsor town helped and I pushed on further, repeating my mantra to myself. Finally, we made it to Windsor castle in 6:35:16.
My wife, radhika, was a massive crew support. We carried food with us and she held the pack for me while riding. We stopped twice at Richmond cafe and quick stop near runnymede park cafe to get some water. We crossed few bridges where i helped her by lifting our bike on stairs.
It was a great fun adventure together. it wasnt a best day for me and hence i would like to return at some point to better the time. until then i am pleased with the money we have raised for cancer research. Massive thanks to scott jenkins for creating this lovely route and giving very correct details.
Thanks. Jeev