Richard Smith

Getting into the London Marathon in 2008 (4th time luck in the ballot) as an armchair fan thinking that I’ll give it a go.

5 – 10 miles, preferably cross country.

Any time I’ve been deep in the red during a race and endured the suffering rather than easing off. Doesn’t happen every time which makes it all the more special when I get through it.

I didn’t run with a watch when I started whereas now I’m a stat slave. I’m much more aware of how to prep and peak for races (I still get it wrong, though). I’m much more aware of enjoying a run for running’s sake now, when it happens, regardless of whether it’s a race, training run or one for fun – it used to be simply ticking boxes when I ran.

Probably either of Mo Farah’s 2012 Olympic golds, purely for being swept along in the moment.

Various tendon issues in my right foot and leg: Achilles, posterior tibial tendon and recurring extensor tendon issues. They all took time, rest and patience (hardly in abundance for a runner). Various conditioning exercises (which I didn’t turn into habit!) have been learned and forgotten along the way. Learning what my limits are, what the triggers are, recognising it early and how to manage ongoing issues have been key.

Trying to figure out what exactly I want to achieve and focus on. Although I know what I prefer, after 14 years, I still don’t know what I’m best at or what to maximise. Squaring that with my desire to try most things in running is quite tough.

A cliché one; but don’t forget to enjoy it. Any run. If a race goes badly, you’ll hopefully still have had good, enjoyable experiences along the way and fitness in the bank.