Aches and smiles in the Big Apple

Peter Sweatman ran the New York Marathon in November last year, raising more than £2,600 for the Meath. Here, he recalls the highs and lows of the big race: "I trained intensively - four times a week for nearly nine months - to compete in the Marathon, a course of just over 26 miles ending in Central Park.

"The first half of the race was amazing. I felt great for 13 miles because of all the training. Then, at the turn into First Avenue, a sea of heads as far as the eye can see, the going got tough. Luckily, a college friend ran alongside me around the 19th mile, keeping my spirits up when I hit 'the wall' - the stage when the body physically has trouble in processing energy to keep you going.

"I crossed the line in disbelief and amazement that I could still walk! The sense of achievement is second to none - I wore my medal with a huge smile for days afterwards. But going downstairs after a marathon is not a pleasurable experience!"

Peter used the online fundraising site 'Just Giving' to collect sponsorship. Since teaming up with the online fundraising tool almost two years ago, the Meath has received more than £7,800. The site enables users to create bespoke fundraising pages. They are also a good way of encouraging donations in lieu of wedding gifts, birthday and Christmas gifts.