Christine Inch
How did your running journey start?
I’d been a bit of a couch potato at school but at age 25 a friend from work wanted to start “jogging” to loose weight after having a baby. I felt sorry for her going out on her own so dusted off my Hi Tech trainers that had been in the attic for years and went with her.
What were/are your main/favourite distances?
Nowadays probably 10K. Used to enjoy half marathons but think the shorter stuff suits me better now.
What would you consider your greatest personal athletic achievement, and what did it mean to you?
My London marathon PB of 3:27 set the year before my 50th birthday. I maintain that women are like a good wine – they improve with age. Other achievements include winning several individual and team Essex county medals as a V35 & V45.
How did/has your approach to running change throughout your career?
Still my approach is to chat and have a good time but, thanks to Bob & Pete, have forced myself to do some track training & quality stuff which has helped my fitness and I guess times.
Favourite race you’ve seen and why
World Champs in London 2017 watching Mo Farah & Usain Bolt in their last track competitions
What injuries have you had, how did you treat them, and how did it affect you mentally?
Oh gosh where do I start! Many, especially as I have got older. It’s tough mentally to come back time after time but it is a case of taking it slowly, not expecting too much too soon and adjusting expectations if necessary. It takes sheer grit and determination to bounce back each time though.
What was/has been your number one challenge throughout your career, and how did you overcome it?
I would say being patient enough to take time out when injured or ill (not that I’m great at it!). It’s tough getting injured during marathon training and making yourself rest without being too paranoid about how many miles everyone else is doing.
What is your number one piece of advice?
Lots of water and food before, during and after races