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Calling all Bupa Great North Run hopefuls
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Name: Stuart Jones
Age: 24
Running history: Having only just come into the running world 2 months ago, i have quickly caught the bug and am looking to really improve on what has been a so far successful but rather haphazard training program. I competed in my first 5k a month ago, which was particularly satisfying as when i initially started i couldn't run a mile without finishing on my knees.
Reason for competing: 3 years ago my Grandma passed away having succumbed to Multiple Sclerosis after a long and painful battle. I am running in aid of that charity in the hope that by amassing a decent sponsorship amount i can help someone else who is suffering from the awful illness.
Target: Whilst i was hesitant to set any other targets but to complete the race, i had little choice when a number of my sponsors set me the target of completing in less than 2 hours and if i meet the target they will double the sponsorship.
Three years ago (I'm now 42) I took up some light jogging and set myself the goal of completing it again....to lay my own ghosts. I completed in under 2 hours which I thought was fantastic. Last year I ran slightly injured and finished in 1hr 48m which I would like to beat again this year.
I need the help to speed train as I run three times a week but cannot seem to train lightly....or even at pace. All my runs are the same (no matter how many times I read the advice in RW!) Don't get me wrong I'm quite happy with this but would like the help to shave some more off my time.
Whatever happens I'll enjoy it! I might get a bit knackered around mile 10; I might even get in the FLM this year!
There seems to be an awful lot of people where this is their first post?!
Why should i win this prize?
Quiet simple i spend my life training people to
1) lose weight
2) For health reasons
3) They are runners and want to improve. They all do including 1 that wins local races.
So i should win as for once it would be nice for someone to tell me what to do, just to see what it feels like from the other side
This is another first for me! I've not joined a forum before.
I've been running for about 2 years now and this will be my first ever half marathon. I entered the ballot as a bit of a dare. The challenge is daunting. But, I'm really excited about it. The furthest I've run so far is 6 miles. All my family think its a bit crazy, Indians (especially women) just don't do running but they're getting used to seeing me going out and a few have even started to go out walking. I run with my friend Laura and we put the world to right when we're out.
I've not had any formal training so it would be nice to have some professional advice. I've entered a couple of short races and usually come in at the back, but the buzz is amazing. I'd like to improve my speed.
My half marathon goal is to finish! but I want to run it rather than walk round.
I started running again in September 07 after finding this round faced heavy looking guy in my holiday snaps. Needing a goal I applied to run the Belfast Marathon which I had done in 3:52 four years previously. When I started again a 3 miles run and walk was hard work but I managed to build the mileage up slowly, watching some three stones and three pounds drop of was a real incentive. For Christmas my partner bought me a Garmin 305 which helped with my pace (Motionbased "Firesac"). I built up the weekly mileage to 50 miles, running on the road and treadmill.
My taper took place whilst on holiday as this was in Egypt I had to get up at 5:30am to run. I completed the Belfast Marathon in a PB of 3:27. I have kept at the running and have just completed the Lisburn Half Marathon in 1:36. I am now looking for another goal to keep me motivated, I also believe that I can still improve and as a 47 year old Fire Officer I have to plan my training around work. I would like to break 1:30 for the half marathon.
Name: Paul Thompson
Brief running history: I was 19 Stone and conned into training with the PE teacher at work! He entered me for Derby 10k in 2007 and ran me round to finish in the hour (59:58). That was it, before I knew it I was running the Arden 9, Christmas pudding 10 and this year my first half in Stafford(2hrs 20mins)! As if by magic I was also now 15 1/2 stone, which was handy for my wedding!
Reason why we should train you: The PE teacher has moved on and the weight is moving back! I have lost my mojo. I am trying to run but oddly miss the bellowing in my ear telling me to put it in and finish the race. I have found my comfort zone and have put down roots. I need a goal and a stick to get me there.
Half-marathon goal: I have two tiny little goals. Finish the race (Under 2 hours) and reignite the passion I had for running. Would also give me great material for an assembly!
Name: Alex Davis
Brief running history: I started running in 2005 when my friend persuaded me to run the Race for Life. My time that year was 47 minutes. I ran it two years and got the bug for running, and I joined Ashford and District RRC in 2006. At that stage I had never run further than 5k.
I have progressed so well with the club, and my PB for 5k is now 29:38. I really have the bug and try to run 20 miles a week. I have only completed one half marathon in 2:47 (Canterbury) but I am registered for the Hastings one in 2009 and I am aiming for a marathon. I have run a lont of 5k and 10k races, most recently the Bluewater 10k and I love the atmosphere of race day.
I love my running, it gets me out and about, and it helps counteract my obsession with all things Cadbury nicely!!
Reason why we should train you: Because you guys know more than me!!!!
Half-marathon goal: 2:30 or under would make me sooo happy!!!!
I would really like to nominate myself please?
I am 51 years old and only started running 18 months ago. Since then I have run 1,500 miles in over 20 official races in three countries, including my first half marathon in Orlando, Florida last December 1st. Time was 1.48 at first attempt.
I train 5 times a week, and run between 30 to 50 miles on roads, towpaths and trails. My main inspiration is now runing for Cancer Research UK and have so far raised £7,800 but have pledged to raise £50,000. You can see my fundraising page here www.justgiving.com/stephenauker
This year I ran in my home town where the great Ron Hill was competing and I was photographed on the finish line beating him by 2 seconds
The reason why I started running was a complete accident. I joined the gym to lose weight (I was 16 stone 2 lbs) and part of my CV work was on the treadmill. It eventually led me to try running out of doors, and eventually I registered for my first race (Blackpool because it was flat). I am now less than 12 stone.
Steve
Name
teven Bonera
Running History completed 1999 FLM. tried unsucessfully to get in again, rejected a good few times.
FLM 2003 this really helped me deal with my anxiety/stress and was amazing to know running is such a powerful way to destress and get clarity in your life. 2005 FLM
last race was Bristol half Marathon running for Steve Cram's Coco charity. PB for half marathon is 2hrs 13mins so I would like to see a 2hr time in the near future. few races planned to try a achieve that.
Why you should train me? I love the big buzz races and Great north run would be fantastic to run. I love to blog about my training to races as it motivates me greatly and you can see the improvements. Having a training schedule is the best way to achieve your goals P.S you owe me one, I ended up chatting to a Lucozade Sport rep for ages after Bristol. Gave him enough info to develop your products LOL
Lois McGrath
Age 43
I started running 9 months ago after a so called mate asked if I would like to do a 10K with her as part of our plan to get fit and thin. My first outdoor run was about 2 miles and I have never looked back. I am still amazed at how much I am enjoying it.
I now run about 25 miles a week and have joined a local club. I have finished two 10Ks and a half marathon. Finishing the half in under 2 hours was one of the most satisfying experiences of my life. Mate who lured me in has yet to start .
I would love to win the Great North Run prize. More to the point, I am tenacious and will work really hard to maximise the great opportunity to improve my running with the expert advice offered. In a year, by my own efforts, I am 2 stone lighter and running half marathons. With professional help I can be so much better.
I vote for long standing forumites JPenno and Farnie.
Whilst I appreciate it is a great prize, my OWN OPINION is that it should go to more frequent members of the site, rather than people who have just signed up to get their hands on a freebie.
My opinion only, don't shoot me for it.
Coops10, I won't shoot you,
I'm sure there are many people who use this site and forum everyday (me included) but don't make posts on the forum.
I've been here for well over 18 months but have only recently signed up.
I'm sure the amount of posts made will have no bearing on whether they will or won't be a winner.
Don't shoot me
Anyway, back to the nominations.
Brief running history: running has always been an important part of my life (early promise showing in Sunday school picnic day races). While I’ve done many sports in addition to “pure” running (rugby, softball, golf, triathlons, ect) the “gift” that is my ability to run has given me the platform of fitness on which I’ve been able to build other skills and experience my life to the full. Played Rugby for Scottish Borders schools in my teens. Ran 400mh for Scotland in 20s. Completed the Hawaii Ironman in 30s.Placed second in Challenger twice in 40s. Now looking for something to challenge me in my 50s. Best Half 1:15:03 (you can imagine how much I resent those 3 seconds) 1983
Reason why we should train you: Since being diagnosed with a heart condition a couple of years ago I am “under heavy manners” that half is as far as I can run (guess that rules our MDS as a challenge then). Recent halves have tended towards the 2 hour mark but this is more down to lack of focus. Undertaking this sort of regime would give me incentive to target the event (for no other reason than that I would not wish to embarrass myself before the RW population) and find out quite what I am capable of .
Half-marathon goal: Would like to threaten 1:30 then go on to threaten 1:15 again
Never rule out the old guy with baggy shorts and holes in his trainers.
Name: Katie Brown
I don't have to offer you a brief running history - that is all I have! Accidentally got into running in 2004 when at 21 I was clincally obese and trying to shift the weight. As it was lifestyle related, the weight fell off really quickly and so 6 months later, after a Race for Life 5k my running was less focused and fell into the background. Almost a year later I entered the Munich Half Marathon as a dare and crossed the line in 2 hours 33 minutes. Running was pretty much on and off until September last year when I entered the Hosforth 10k and remembered what I loved about it.
2008's goal was to run a race every month, I am on course so far having completed a 10k every month this year and and the Riga Half Marathon in May. I ran with my girlfriend so wasn't aiming for a PB - more to keep her going. Even so, got one of 2 hours 25. It looks like 10ks for the rest of the year with Leeds Half and the Great North Run as an exception.
And that is exactly why I would like to be trained. At 25, I play rugby, cycle and run (sporadically), but don't seem to be able to stick to a plan. So, I turn up to races - sometimes haven't not run for a month or two and then trott around. I have entered the FLM ballot and know that it is in me to run at least a 1 hour 50 half - I just need someone to show me how!
Name : Craney (nominating myself!)
Brief Running History : Been running since 2005, completed Liverpool Half Marathon in March 2006 in 1:50:21. Had niggling injuries over the past couple of years which has limited my running however I started again on 1st April 2008 and I have just completed the Liverpool Tunnel 10k in 48:34!I set myself a goal of completing it in under 50mins and yes I did it!
I am currently running varying distances 7.7 miles in 1:05:03, 4.8 miles in 0:37:30 and 9.1 miles 1:16:44
Reason Why You Should Train Me : I am a non-drinking, non chocolate eating running junkie who just loves running (apart from first 2 miles)! If you are looking for full 100% commitment to the 10 week training programme well I am your man……………………………….My challenge is to you RUNNERS WORLD and LUCOZADE to set me a training programme to achieve my goal of a sub 1:30:00 finish!
What an advert this will be for you……………………when I do it!
Can you do it RUNNERS WORLD and LUCOZADE…………..can you, can you? Have you got the BOTTLE then put your money were your mouth is and select me as one of your SUPER SIX, I dare you not to!
I will share every detail with you and we will make great partners………………………..!
Goal : To get picked to be in the LUCOZADE SPORTS SUPER SIX Team for the Bupa Great North Run 2008 and complete in under 1:30:00!
Total Words : 250 including theseName: Pete Sov
Brief running history: Started running seriously in year 2000 after giving up playing football. Have now done 17 marathons and many halfs, 10ks and Tri's.
My average routine every year is to do 3 or 4 marathons whilst trying to hold down a demanding job and keep some brownie points with the mrs. Other runs / events tend to help me do the marathons. Not sure what my half pb is - around 1.40-1.45 (a long time ago).
Reason why we should train you: At the time of the run I will be 45. My times have started dropping off but I have noticed training smarter rather than harder does have benefits. I would love some advice and guidance to help me prove that a smart sensible approach can help improve running, even as you age.
Half-marathon goal: 1.50ish
Name: Chris Taylor
Brief Running History: 2007 Four cross country 10k runs, 2008 One cross country half marathon (June) 2:39minutes. Average around 20miles a week.
Reason why we should train you: To inspire Mid Life Crisisers everywhere! Last year at 36 years old, I found I was about two stone overweight, I was unable to kick my 10 a day smoking habit and the pub was still a destination three nights a week.
With an increasingly active family I recognised I needed to change my ways. Some inspirational training could really accelerate my improvements, I think I have come along way, but I want to find out how much further I can go with the right support.
I have plenty of motivation and determination, but I still need to lose weight, my basic speed is pretty terrible and my base fitness is only just starting to come through, so far I have always trained alone and without training a plan, I just run.
Half Marathon Goal – 1 Hour 45 Minutes.
*pokes Coops in eye*
Stop it you naughty boy.....
Name: Lorna Gall, 37
History: Been running for 4 1/2 years . Started running because I saw the finishers at the glasgow half marathon 2002, in the pouring rain, being wrapped up in their foils blankets and thought it looked great fun. However I was 6 months pregnant at the time so had to wait a year.
So far i have completed 5 marathons with my best being 4 weeks ago in 3.56. I have run numerous halfs, 10ks etc. I run 5-6 days ( 35 - 45 miles) a week come rain or shine and have decided now to branch into triathlon and so am also squeezing swimming and cycling into a life that also includes family and work. Needless to say, my house is a tip and my kids think my trainers are surgically attached to my feet. (good job there is a treadmill in the garage)
Why train me: Because I am obsessed and am verging on compulsive when it comes to training. I will do whatever the schedule says. I would also love to put all my effort and energy in the right places. At the moment i train my wee socks off without getting a massive result to show for it. I am not a beginner but I am not super fast either. I am your bog average club runner who always is better than average in a race but never spectacular.
Goal: A pb would be nice (which would be sub 1: 48)
Name: Caroline Hutchings
Brief running history: Started running late last year. Did so badly, tore a calf muscle and damaged tendons before realising I needed orthotics and physiotherapy. Have since kept up manic determiation on recovery and strength and am running my first 10k in just over a week.
Reason why we should train you: My partner was hit by a car in Paris 3 weeks ago. He has serious head trauma. He is making an amazing recovery and I would love to raise a pot of money for the hospital that cared for him. Given the time and energy I am spending caring for him, getting over what has happened and working three jobs, my running is the only thing that keeps me calm and puts things in focus. I need help to keep on track with increasing my running abilities and keeping up my motivation so it doesn't drop while juggling everything else.
Half-marathon goal: To finish having given it the best damn try I can!
Name: Sophie Voller
Brief Running history: Started running about 2 1/2 years ago after watching a friend do the Bristol half marathon and thought that it looked like a really good idea! I had been going to the gym for years and ran on the treadmill for about 20 minutes but really didn't enjoy running outside and didn't think I was any good!
Ran the Reading Half in 2006 in 1:40 and loved it! Have been hooked ever since. Have now completed 6 half marathons with a pb of 1:31 and this year completed my first marathon at London (3:21)
I ran the Great North run last year and loved it despite finding it pretty tough as 3 weeks earlier I had dropped out of Bristol half at 6 miles and got taken back by ambulance! I was still determined to take part in such a massive event though, and had a fantastic weekend in Newcastle.
Why you should train me: I would really love to get under 1:30 for a half marathon and qualify for an elite place at London next year. Would be pretty good for an ex-fat kid who was last on cross country at school and teased for being rubbish at sport!
Name: Scott Hutchison
Brief Running History: Started running about 3 years ago, about 6 months after giving up playing football due to injury. The wife told me I was getting fat and had beeter do somehing about it. Started running at lunchtimes with friends from work and fell in love with it. I have ran several halfs before and did my first marathon at FLM this year quickly followed by my 2nd at Edinburgh.
Reason you should train me: I am struggling after training for the marathons to get my motiviation back. I have hardly been out or along club nights since Edinburgh and all I seem to do is feel sorry for myself and eat rubbish. Reading some other peoples reasons I feel I have a bit of a cheek applying for this as they have much better reasons. All I can sya is I want to fall back in love with running and I see this as an opportunity to achieve this.
Goal: A PB used to be my goal every race, this time however it is just to fall in love with running again and stop my wife nagging about me getting fat again.
I'm not going to threaten anyone over this but let's just say that if you don't pick Farnie, I know where you live!!!!
;-)
farnie who..................
Name: Jo James
Brief running history: I ran short distances (3-4km) for many years, then pushed it up a couple of years ago to do my first half marathon in auckland in 2007, followed by the London marathon this year. My favourite runs though are off road and I enjoy getting into a good 20km run along a beach, through the bush up a mountain and down a river more than anything, so I need to stay fit by road running to be able to enjoy such opportunities.
Reason why we should train you: Because after the marathon this year, and moving to the slightly less runner friendly environment of London (from NZ) I need something to keep me improving on the progress I'm proud of in the last year and half. My boyfriend is also training for ironman back home, so I need to put some hard work into my running if I'm going to ever be able to go for a social run with him again when he gets here! I'm only in the UK for the next 3 years, and in that time I want to knock off all the great running events across the country, and the Bupa Great North Run is definitely one of these! Most of all though, I'm tough, I'm committed, and I'm stubborn, so set me a training plan and I'll do it.
Half-marathon goal: I think I've built up the endurance now that I can treat this half marathon differently to the others in so much as it will be a race, rather than a distance to complete without dying. My previous half marathons have been around the 1:49 mark, I'd like to really put some speed work into this one and try to knock it off in under 1:40 if I can.