Runner Spotlight Q&A with Sarah C

You’ve signed up for the Marathon Relay – what made you do it? Was it a burst of inspiration or a moment of madness?

Well if I’m honest I got somehow convinced into doing it against my better judgement! I said I would take Nadine’s place if she couldn’t do it – and look what happened there! I used to run years ago, did the Great North Run in 2001, so thought well it’s like riding a bike isn’t it, how hard can it be?

You’re running to raise money for YMCA Humber’s Youth Services, namely improving the facilities at Kent Street. Why do you think the work we do in the local community is so important?

YMCA Humber work helps local people at risk of homelessness to build stability, independence, self-confidence and resilience. We also provide mental health services and activities where people can learn to cope with anxiety, isolation, and other mental health issues. We also build a sense of community through youth clubs, community events, fitness and craft activities, creating welcoming spaces where people feel connected and valued.

Would you class yourself as a runner and have you done anything like this before? If not, why now?

I was a runner and did not realise just how long it had been, 24 years since last ran as I hated it then and stopped the instant, I completed the GNR. Since attempting to train for the York Marathon I have realised that I am categorically not a runner now!

What song is always on your running playlist? Any guilty pleasures we should know about?

My playlist is full of bouncy happy hardcore tunes, upbeat stuff to push me through the hate I feel whilst running – it doesn’t fully work but it’s better than not! I’m quite partial to a bit of cheesey pop, as long as it’s upbeat and bouncy!

How do you keep yourself going when your legs are ready to call it a day?

I don’t I honestly just give up! I’ve realised that I’m not a runner and should have left that in the past where it belongs. I’ve accepted that I will be walking my leg with maybe the odd little burst of a jog. But I’m ok with this and so are my legs.

What’s been your most memorable moment while out training? Good or bad!

Thinking that I could actually be a runner again and realising that no, no I can’t. 

Do you have any pieces of wisdom, mantras, tricks or treats that help you get out the door and on the road on tough days?

Currently no as I have given up. But I will get back out there later this month and push through the pain. I think now I have accepted that I will mostly be walking it will be better as I won’t be disappointing myself on a thrice weekly basis. The mantra then will be reminding myself once this is over I will never ever ever ever ever ever ever be putting myself forward for something like this ever again! 

What’s your go-to reward after a long run?

I do not know as I have not managed to achieve a long run. If I did it would probably be something naughty like a cream cake or chocolate.

What do you think the most enjoyable thing about this challenge will be?

Finishing my leg…. And raising money of course.

Why should people donate and support our fundraising?

So that we can make Kent Street even better! It is looking fantastic already but anything we can do to make facilities as good as possible for local young people the better.

How you can help