Well 10 weeks to go and countdown has really begun.. I can now finally say I feel comfortable in the running blade.  Even though it still takes me 20 mins to settle into the socket, each time I put it on to run .I really feel all the hard work has started to pay off. It’s not till I take a min to recall the months of up’s and downs since January do I realise how far we have come as a team. I have learned so much about the body, how it all works and connects together , everything playing a vital role in my completing my challenge , from the mind to the feet  and its comparison to a machine, and like a machine all the components need to be looked after and serviced regularly. It’s also learning and understanding how it all works. From this you learn to respect your body. If you look after it, listen to it you will start to realise anything is possible with the right tools..On the 25th August I will compete in the Dublin 10 mile race … I am not looking for any time just happy that I have inspired a group of about 12  from the prosthetic clinic [IDS Cappagh  Hospital , Finglas Dublin ]  to run with me .For most of these it will be there first time entering such an event and a first to run 10 miles .Some have expressed a concern about slowing me up , but we will start as a group and finish as a group , This for me is to show as a team you can do so much more  For me it’s all about participation and the taking part.
                                                                                                                                                  Simon Baker

With training in full flight Simon is progessing exceptionally. He is committed as always and following the program with great detail and leaving no stone unturned. As mileage increses now, his stride pattern is comfortable and his running ability has become second to none. He has encountered a few small issues in the lower lumbar area as a result of changes having been made to the running blade. But these fine tunining moments were well and truly forseen. Simon has been using the pool in the University Arena to help create less impact on the joints and keep constant symmetry. With the re-introduction of serious core work in the gym , he is back on track and with the increased input of Orla Smyth, Sports injury therapist twice and three times a week, he is feeling the benefits.

Simon has also had the pleasure of meeting and running with Walter Bortz, who is 82yrs young and is on a mission to complete a 100 marathons before he is a 100yrs. Walter with his wife Ruth Anne, who is also 82, completed a full Marathon created by Derek Mackessy of the University Arena. Walter was accompanied along the way by Simon & Director of the University Arena Dave Mahedy. An inspiration and proof that fitness is key to lngevity and good health.