In ‘Women in Sport’ I share the sporting stories of local women across Tameside and Glossop, but I have been yet to share my own little story and choosing to commit to running was the best thing I ever did.

I have always loved to keep fit, jumping from sport to sport and cruising through various gyms across the area.

Running was something that I always enjoyed, growing up with a family full of runners and often taking the time to explore the hills and terrains around Tameside.

Despite the love I had for this sport, I would often phase out of my regular running routine. However, when the first lockdown hit, I suddenly had no other way to keep myself active.

The pandemic left me with plenty of spare time to delve into running properly. I had all this free time to explore the training that suited me and discover my favourite routes.

On a whim one morning, I headed out for a ‘long’ run. I had no prior expectations of the distance I wanted to cover, my aim was just to run until I’d had enough. After pacing the pavements and travelling through various towns, I had reached 9 miles.

This was undoubtedly a turning point turning point for me. I now knew that I was able to cover respectable distances, albeit at a slow pace, and this provided me with so much confidence to run.

Following this, I signed up for the Great Manchester Run. This was back in February, and I am now in the final few days before I will face my half marathon on Sunday (26 September).

Signing up now feels like a lifetime ago but my training since that day has been nothing but enjoyable.

Feeling like I needed some structure, I joined East Cheshire Harriers and Tameside Athletic Club – which quickly became the second-best thing I ever did.

Pictured: All smiles after stage one of the Tour of Tameside.

The club is full of perfect runners. By this I don’t mean their athleticism, which is also extremely noteworthy, but instead people who are full of encouragement.

This support was just what I needed to ensure I stuck to my sport. I leave every session with a huge euphoric feeling knowing that I’ve completed a gruelling workout and enjoyed a friendly conversation while doing so.

My half marathon is now just days away and has crept up seemingly fast. I am beyond excited to step out on that start line, feeling the energy of the crowds filling the city.

The support felt at organised races is second-to-none. Hearing people cheering on your club or showing you the encouragement to keep going makes all the early starts and sore muscles worth it.

I’ve said that I’m not aiming for a specific time for my race, with it being my debut half marathon the goal is to complete it and just take it all in.

In doing my half, I will also be raising money for the British Heart Foundation. This is a charity that I have spent the last few years raising money for and one that holds a very special place in my heart.

They have continued to provide life-saving work despite the numerous setbacks thrown at them during the pandemic and I am beyond thrilled that fundraising events are now able to take place again.

You can visit my JustGiving page here.

Do you know an inspirational sporting woman in Tameside or Glossop?

Women in Sport is a weekly column which shares the incredible stories of ladies involved in sport across the area. We are always on the lookout for fresh stories to tell. To nominate someone for the column or get involved yourself, please email Katie on katie.catherall@questmedianetwork.co.uk. 

You can read last week's column here.

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