I started running in 2007 influenced by Nicky who had already done 5K and 10K races. My first race was Market Drayton 10K where we looked on in awe at all the “professional” club runners. I ran in a cotton top, tracksuit bottoms and no fancy Garmin to be seen.
In 2010 I moved up to Half Marathon distance at the Great North Run, again influenced by Nicky who ran it the year before.
Since then I have done many many races over the world 10K races, Half Marathons, Metric Marathons, 20 milers and Full Marathons.
During this journey Mr Crozier approached me at parkrun; he knew I was training for some half marathons and said why didn’t I come and run with LRC for company – no pressure to join. We really enjoyed it and joined LRC in 2014. The friendships we have created and camaraderie between members is great.
My favourite race distance is half marathon because I seem to warm up after 3 or 4 miles. I enjoy different races for different reasons – GNR Half for the red arrows and mass of people, Wenlock Half for its scenery, Ironbridge because of its local connections etc.
I became a Run Leader in September 2015 and really enjoy helping others to enjoy running and to achieve their goals. I love to pace others when they are trying to achieve a particular time whether at 5K, 10K or a Half Marathon. I’ve not paced a marathon though. I also love to marshal at races as another way to give something back. I often marshal or help with the finish area at parkrun but my favourite marshal stints are at LRC’s Fun Run or at LRC’s Beckbury race (of course).