Former Uni Blues player Tom Rankin, now based in Darwin, is set to cover some serious kilometres this weekend.  He takes up the tale...

Blue Bloods,

It has been a while…

I broke my arm in 2008 and simultaneously morphed into Forrest Gump. As such, I’ve lost about 15kgs since my playing days, gained the ability to run for extended periods of time in unbearable heat but unlike Forrest, still can't grow a beard (see pic at the link below)?!  My training regime in Darwin really heated up (pardon the pun!) in January 2010 and I’m set to race in the inaugural Dili Peace Marathon. Yep, 42.2kms of gruelling tropical bliss!?!?

The big run’s this Sunday and is in support of 8 local charities that have been chosen by the event coordinators.  I spent 10 days there last year and feel that Australia, as near neighbours, should get behind the people of this new nation who live in extreme poverty.

While I’m belting out more kilometres than an ambitious albatross, if you feel inclined, please follow the link below and share a bit of your wealth with some folk who'd make it go a long way.  Any amount will be greatly appreciated.

The donations are tax deductible and a receipt will be automatically forwarded to you upon payment. e="mso-spacerun: yes;"> 

Go to http://www.gofundraise.com.au/RankinT

Information about the event and nominated charities can be found at www.dilimarathon.com

Good running,

Ranks