Samantha's running journey

I began running in April 2023 after being invited to run Southampton 10k with my partner and his family. I initially signed up to walk it as I had tried couch to 5k previously and didn't enjoy running at all. About 4 weeks before the race, I ran 5k and was pleasantly surprised how much fitter I felt - likely helped from walking 170 miles across February, raising money for World Cancer Research Fund. I ran 5k a few more times and ran 10k twice before the race, completing it in an hour on the day. The buzz afterwards and receiving my first ever medal was an amazing feeling! I continued running and got hooked, finding it very helpful for my mental health and taking part in lots of events.
I entered the ballot for the 2024 London Marathon but wasn't very serious about it as I didn't think I would ever run a marathon. By the time I heard that I was unsuccessful, I had walked a marathon (The Moonwalk) and was enjoying running half marathon distance so I was determined to take part and applied for charity places. I was very fortunate to run for Family Holiday Charity and it was an amazing experience. I have since ran 2 ultra marathons and the original marathon in Athens which was incredible. Unfortunately I was unsuccessful in the ballot for London again this year but really wanted to raise some money for Thrombosis UK in memory of my Mum. She grew up in Yorkshire and some of her family live there so it seemed a perfect opportunity.

She is running the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon this year on Sunday 11th May. We can't wait to cheer you across that finish line.

Do you want to take on the marathon? Sign up below.