Age 48
How did you first get into running?
I’ve always enjoyed running. I remember at primary school being very proud of the fact that I could match the fastest boy in school over 100m. Though that didn’t last long once we moved up to the comp.
I was no good at distance running at all. I remember barely managing to complete 1500m at school, but I was usually part of the 100m sprint team.
Competition never went beyond a bit of school athletics for me though. At university I was more into climbing, canoeing and trekking. Later we did some Adventure Racing, but that was still before the concept of training had ever crossed my mind. On hearing that there would be veteran prizes I remember thinking that I couldn’t imagine ever being old enough to qualify for that!
More recently running has been about well-being for me. After lots of failure and heartache we finally gave up hope of becoming parents and I needed something to help me to feel like myself again. Greg had already gone back to running and at last I found it the perfect healer too. Running out in our glorious countryside and open air slowly brought back my confidence, self-worth and smile and joining a friendly club with all its social opportunities and events was the icing on the cake.
What’s a typical running week for you?
There’s no such thing really, it all depends on what’s coming up (or what I’ve just done) and how busy/motivated I’m feeling. Right now I’m taking a rest as I’ve done a lot this year and my hips are telling me they need a break.
What’s in the diary?
The only thing that’s actually booked is the Montane Lakeland 50 in July next year as I happened to win a place in their ballot. I’ve got a good for age place in the London Marathon too, but I’m not sure whether I’ll take that up yet.
What’s your Most Memorable Run?
I remember trotting down Cadair Idris in the pouring rain last summer, about 30km into an 80km race flooded with sensations of absolute joy. I was totally in the zone – that’s what they call the runner’s high I guess.
Any injuries you’ve struggled with?
I pushed it too far by adding some fast sections to a long run once – forgetting that I’m a veteran now. It stopped me running for 3 months at the beginning of lockdown and I’ve had various recurring hip and back pains ever since – thankfully they’re usually worst after a run so can generally be ignored.
What do you most love about running?
Being able to spend time in amazing surroundings with fabulous company. I prefer a relaxed run out in the mountains with friends any day over busting a gut racing, but I can’t seem to help engaging in a bit of that too.
What do you do for a living?
I’ve recently taken a job as a planner with Powys County Council (something I trained to do at University but haven’t been near for 20+ years) and Greg and I have a small speciality coffee roasting business too.
Who do you live with?
With Greg who you all know and Henry our creamy coloured tabby cat.
Have you any pets?
Just Henry.
Winter is on the way. Have you any film or TV recommendations?
I’m more of a book worm than a film buff, but I did enjoy the nostalgia of Top Gun Maverick on the big screen recently. The original was the first certificate 15 film I ever saw – while under age of course!