When did running begin for you?
When I was at University. Second year came around and I became a lot more conscious that I was drinking and eating a lot, but not really moving a lot. One of my housemates had just started running, so we went together, running and walking our way around a short loop. I still remember the day I ran the whole thing. It wasn’t until I moved to London for my first proper job that I got into it more seriously. Again, I have a housemate to thank. She encouraged me to try run-commuting, which I loved. She also got me to sign-up for my first half-marathon, and from there I just kept it up.
Why do you run?
It’s my escape. If I feel stressed or low, it will always boost my mood. It also allows me to clear my head when I need the space to think- I’ve often come back having worked out the answer to my current problem. I also enjoy the fitness levels that it requires. I do a lot of cycling, but I never feel fitter than when I’m running lots. It means I can do loads of other active things without worrying if I’ll have the fitness- a recent go at Total Wipeout being a good example!
What race or moment in your running career holds the most significance and why?
Definitely the London Marathon in 2017. I’d been incredibly disciplined with my training, because I was scared I’d never be able to do it, and I’d invested a lot of time and energy. At 5km to go, I finally realised I was going to complete it, and it was a great moment. I also raised lots of money for the Stroke Association, which is a cause close to my heart, and I’ll always be proud of that.
Who is your running inspiration?
Not to copy Bill… but this club really does inspire me. I don’t attend as regularly as I would like, but I’m always welcome when I do make it, and I always get to hear about someone’s exciting new challenge. The passion, commitment and talent that the club has is really great, and they make me want to achieve more.
What event, past or present, would you like to take part in and why?
I’m not much of an event participant… so I’ll go a little off-piste and say an Ironman. I did my first triathlon this year and loved it. I’m keen to go to the next level, but an Ironman is little beyond my reach right now, but who knows what the future may hold?!
What golden piece of advice would you give to other runners?
Spend money on the right trainers. If you’re going to run a lot, then investing is so worth it to avoid injuries. If you get injured you won’t enjoy it, and that’s the whole point!
What’s next?
This year has mainly been about cycling for me and I have Ride London in August. I’ll probably sign-up for an Autumn half to ensure I keep up with my running. But I do have the small obstacle of my wedding in September to get out of the way first…
Who would you like to nominate?
Paul Sansom