Post GMR 2007 - Training continues ..... by Kitten

The story goes something like this…

I have been teaching Aerobics classes for well over 25yrs, and therefore always considered myself pretty fit for my age (48) - I actually found out later that I was far from fit in running terms!

Started plodding on the treadmill many years ago as a complete novice, two or three times a week, VERY VERY SLOWLY and consequently didn't really improve... 

In Summer 2006, my daughter Hannah (Babykitten) joined Sale Harriers Manchester so I ran out with the kids for a year or so, it was real fun but I gave up going when Hannah and my running buddy did, but at least I have kept at it!

February 2007 I signed up for my first Great Manchester Run, inspired by my best friend Caroline who ran it in around 53 mins in 2006, I thought WOW, I want to do that!

Stumbled across realbuzz upon entering GMR and soon became internet buddies with Martin H, Jamie B & Russell. Soon after Martin convinced me I should try a 10K race before the GMR so I entered a small local 10K and cracked the hour by seconds, with the help of Russell, I felt quite sick afterwards though!

GMR 2007 was a fantastic experience, I ran for Breast Cancer Campaign in 2007 following my Mum's partial mastectomy. My original target was to raise £100. Well in just over 4 weeks I stormed that and raised £679.00!!!!! I was so happy to have raised so much and I am forever extremely grateful to everyone who sponsored me. My Mum was over the moon and so I achieved my goal :-))

Anyway, I guess I caught the bug as I went on to do 8 more races throughout the year of 2007 - since then I've lost the racing bug simply because it hurts too much lol - one day I may take it a little more seriously, we'll see.

For now, I am happy ticking along and entering the GMR and the High Legh 10K where I'm usually the sub 60 minute running marshal, although in 2010 I've agreed to swop with the last runner marshal for a change.

End of November 2009 I was devastated by the sudden death of my best friend Caroline, so every step I now take is in her memory, I miss her terribly

At High Legh 10K friends will be wearing red ribbons as a tribute to Caroline, her closest friends and family will be wearing printed t-shirts on the day. Caroline ran the first High Legh 10K with me and often ran the route in training, lovely memories. I now train regularly with Caroline's Sister Lynsey and best friend Dawn which is fantastic.

Thanks for reading, If I'm quiet on here, you'll catch me on facebook, feel free to add me, I like having friends ...

Wendy Kearsley's Profile

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