Flora Gunner
Age: 59
How did you first get into running?
After I’d had chemotherapy I put on weight and decided to try jogging around Kingsland where we live to try and get a bit fitter. I didn’t enjoy it much but Gary encouraged me to try a Park Run and join Croft Ambrey.
It wasn’t until I did my first proper race in the 2018 Summer Series with Croft that I started to enjoy my running. I was fitter by then and that made running much easier!
What’s a typical running week for you?
I run 2 or 3 times a week and usually cover between 30 and 35 miles. Typically this will be a couple of 10 mile runs and a longer run of around 13 miles. My favourite place to run is Hergest Ridge. I park in Kington and run up the hill. I don’t like running in forests very much. You get some fantastic views when you’re on Hergest.
What’s your most memorable run?
I think my most memorable run has to be the 42km Mammothan in the Shropshire Hills back in April 2019. Everything went wrong. I got lost and didn’t have enough food or water with me. I tried to contact the organiser and thought about pulling out. In the end I kept going and finished in 7 hours and 7 minutes. I learnt a lot on that run!
What’s in the diary?
Shobdon Wood – 15 May
Mynydd, Myfyr Hills – 4 miles/500ft. 4th June
Man v Horse – 22.5 miles, Llanwyrtyd Wells. 11 June
Coity Race – 5 miles/984 ft, Blaenafon. 18 June
Any injuries you’ve struggled with?
In 2019 I suffered pain behind my knee, my doctor said I have Baker’s Cyst. It didn’t stop me running. Luckily it’s okay now. Hopefully it won’t come back.
What do you most love about running?
I love going to different places and meeting new people. I also love practicing my driving when Gary doesn’t come with me!
What do you do for a living?
I work on a check-out at Morrisons in Leominster. I usually work Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. I sometimes work on the weekend if I’m not racing.
Who do you live with?
With Gary.
Have you any pets?
See above.
What’s your favourite Cornetto flavour?
I’m not very ice creemsy. I think I would choose Strawberry.