InspiredToRun.co.uk

Back in May 2005 my boyfriend walked out on me, leaving me up to my eyes in debt. When I picked myself up again, I made a decision to do something to prove that I really could achieve something, not just to him but to myself. So I decided to start running. At first I would just run down the road to the park and attempt a lap. It was awful, I was gasping for breath and thought I was going to collapse! But I stuck with it and read stories of others who had struggled with the initial start process.

I decided to set a goal and entered myself for the Great North Run, running for Mind. Everyone thought I was mad as I had never been a runner. But I trained each and every week, struggling at every stage of the way, often crying with disappointment when I reached home. I carried on and ran a 5K for experience. On October 1, 2006 I completed the world's biggest half-marathon, the Great North Run in 2hours 32 mins and 19 secs!! Not a world record but when I crossed the line, not only had I come along physically but mentally I had come so far, hence running for Mind. I'd do it all again, as the buzz you get is just unreal and definitely recommended!!