Ran the Royal Parks half marathon the other day. Ben Fogle was the star turn, introducing and running the race. He said in his plummy tones: "Remember that when you get back into Hyde Park you have only gone six miles, so it's still seven or eight to go." Actually seven, Ben. Six and SEVEN is 13, not six and eight.
Which leads me to ask, why does Fogle get any TV presenting work? As a reality show contestant from several years ago, Fogle should surely be forgotten about by now. Yet he appears on the admirable Countryfile etc regularly. I know Countryfile is a retirement home for has-beens and never will bes, such as John Craven, Michaela Strachan and that ginger bloke who never fails to mention he has a farm, but wouldn't it be better with some decent presenters. Fogle can't even read a script.
The half marathon attracted 12,500 runners to raise money for the Royal Parks Foundation and other charities. They wanted more but in these times whatever you can get is a success.
And my time? 1.34. Worst ever, but at least I beat Fogle. And it was a lovely day. So let's look on the bright side.
