Marathon enthusiast runs out out of patience with the snow

Fiona Venner’s repeated marathon attempts have been foiled by bad weather both at home and across the Atlantic.

But now she is taking matters into her own hands, or rather her feet.

On Sunday, Ms Venner – along with eight running friends – will attempt to complete a 26.2-mile course around Leeds. They are calling the event ‘Ain’t Snow Stopping Us Now, the Marathon’.

Last February, when she turned 40, Ms Venner pledged to run the New York Marathon to raise money for Leeds Survivor Led Crisis Service in Halton, where she works. The charity offers support and counselling for vulnerable people with emotional, financial and other difficulties.

Ms Venner’s initial fundraising efforts last February was ruined by snowfall. Then last year’s New York Marathon was cancelled at short notice following Hurricane Sandy, after Ms Venner and a friend had already flown across the Atlantic to take part.

She entered last weekend’s Gloucester Marathon to replace the New York event, but that was cancelled due to snow.

To compensate, a friend gave Ms Venner her place in another race which should have been in York last weekend – but that too was cancelled due to the weather.

Ms Venner said: “I generally love snow but it has made my life very challenging over the last year.

“It looks very pretty but I have been very angry with it!

“I have bought some ice grips now, so even if it’s icy this weekend - or more snow is suddenly predicted - I am still going to run.”

Ms Venner wanted to complete at least one winter marathon to fulfil her pledge of running two races in a year.

She has already taken part in last year’s London marathon. Donations can be made at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/FionaVenner1 on the internet.