Q: Please attach a picture, doesn't have to be of you if you don't want - but tell us here: what is the picture about?
A: So, after completing C25K this was my aim- the Santa Run 5K for British Heart Foundation. I decided to fall off a kerb the week before so was half running, half walking/ limping around the run but I did it- and I was so pleased with my achievement. I raised £160 for the charity as well through sponsorship.
Q: Tell us a little bit about you!
A: I decided to start running last July, as I was finishing physio for a torn ligature in my knee (I fell off a kerb) and started C25K with my boyfriend. We got upto 20 minutes before he dropped out with flu, but I kept going. I signed up for the BHF Run to make sure I couldn't drop out.
I am partially deaf so balance and co-ordination can be a problem. If I trip I tend to over correct and go over. I have been saved on one occasion by a fellow runner, who saw me windmilling in run and offered me balance.
I am also an archery coach (Level 1), shoot a longbow and am a member of a cake club.
Q: How long have you been a runner?
A: Since July, 2017. Still not a runner- I plod on like a cart horse.
Q: Did you start running with a C25K programme? Why or why not?
A: I started with the BBC C25K, and after the App failed, I used the podcasts from Laura to do the runs. The structure helped me, and the fact I was doing small challenges at a time was a bonus.
Q: But what made you want to start running races?
A: Entering races means I can't stop- I have to keep going. Not done a race yet, but the first is coming up scarily fast (August 1st RAF Spitfire Run) then I have another couple this year.
Q: What's it like to run in your area?
A: Hilly. I live in Alton, at the bottom of several surrounding hills you don't notice until you start running. I run off road due to not being able to hear the cars coming behind me, so am off in fields or woods. There is the North and South Downs near the town, plus the Pilgrim's Way runs through the town. I often run to Four Marks before doing archery.
Q: What is your favourite race event so far? And why?
A: Not done any races yet- but the Santa Run was fun, and everyone was so supportive.
Q: What are your favourite mid-race snack, and post-race meal?
A: Mid run I have wine gums in my bag. After the run its normally ceral bars if at archery followed by a massive lunch or muesli. I do always make sure I have water and take SiS hydration tablets in them.
Q: Name a favourite running website (plus link, please!):
A: I don't tend to read running websites, except HealthUnlocked.
Q: What's next for you, running-wise?
A: My big focus atm is the Great South Run (10 miles) in October. I have approached a local paper to cover the fact I am trying to raise awareness for ATLA (atlalipreading.org.uk/) and lipreading and hearing loss in general. I am doing the run to raise funds for the charity (gldn.gg/f/Cathy-Runs-GreatS... ) but more importantly is the awareness. If I can change the perception of some people towards us deafies then I am onto a start- especially when its partial hearing loss and people come out with comments like 'you don't look deaf'. Also, the stigma around hearing loss which still exists is something I would like to try and break down further.
In March I am doing The London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise funds for a friend trying to buy an exoskeleton. I want to keep challenging myself but HM Is mad enough for me. Ideally I would love to do the Great North Run next year.
I blame the kerb, it moved.
Ju- Ju's story
Pinks story
July Challenge - Whatsapp's Story
