How long have you been a member of Queen’s Park Harriers?
Six years I think!
What's the best thing about running?
Being able to eat cake without feeling too guilty! ...also, it's the getting away from everyday life, taking a long slow plod down the canal or river, either alone or chatting with friends.
What's your favourite running event?
So far...it has to be the London Marathon 2019 - the feeling of being part of such a mammoth event with huge crowds and electric atmosphere. Nothing can prepare you for the emotions you have to deal with on top of the actual tough race you've trained so hard for. The last 10km I spent wiping away tears every time I saw a Hoopster or family member shouting my name in the crowd! I ran the first half with Gildas which was great fun, I also happened to have got my Boston Qualifying time (yay yay!) and a day off mum duties, so all in all a great day....also, a muddy Cross Country on the iconic Parliament Hill Fields has to be up there for a favourite event.
What would you say is your greatest running achievement?
I would have to say running the Brighton Marathon 2017 one year after having my youngest daughter Jessie, but more specifically, training for it. Having two under-three-year-olds and working part-time made finding time for training very tricky, not to mention exhausting, as well as fitting it around breastfeeding and nap times. I had never intended to do it, but was heckled into entering the ballot at the Christmas Party, and got the place! The achievement was getting to the start line. I’m also pretty chuffed with my recent result in the Valencia Marathon!
What else do you do?
I am a Civil Servant, working for DCMS (Dept. for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport) which I love! When I am not running or working you can probably find me with my family in Queen’s Park, or on the sofa eating cold chocolate watching crime dramas.
Tell us something surprising about yourself that other members may not know.
I am a former GB international fencer, I have been British Champion and have two Commonwealth Gold Medals. I also sometimes get the bus one stop because I’m actually really lazy at heart. Thanks Jojo!
Would you like to be featured in our next Meet the Members feature? We'd love to hear from you! Simply submit your answers to the questions above, plus a photo and email to newsletter@queensparkharriers.org.uk
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