THE SAPPHIRE RUNNING ZONE RUNNER STORIES
All around the world runners are pounding the streets with many different aims and objectives. Some are running to get fit and others are training for an event. Many are fundraising for their favourite charity. Here we chat to some of those runners and share their goals and aspirations. Hopefully you’ll pick up something that will make your running even more fulfilling.
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Episodes
3 days ago
3 days ago
Ben Brindley is not your average runner. He's very fast, he's been impacted by mental health struggles and he spends hours running with a wheelbarrow. Due to the extreme stresses they face those working in the construction industry are four times more likely to commit suicide and they need support. That's what the Lighthouse, the Construction Charity does and Ben runs with his wheelbarrow to raise funds for them and to raise awareness of the problem. From 5km events to 'Everesting' (175km in 40 hours with 9405m of ascent!!) it's been a busy 18 months, with a world record attempt to come!
Check out Ben's instagram page https://www.instagram.com/brindleyrunner and support him on his Justgiving page https://www.justgiving.com/page/benswackyraces
For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
wheelbarrow running, mental health awareness, fundraising, charity events, construction industry, Ben Brindley, running challenges, community support, world record attempt, personal stories
Summary
In this episode, Tim interviews Ben Brindley, a unique runner from Derbyshire who races with a wheelbarrow to raise awareness for mental health in the construction industry. Ben shares his journey from a casual idea to participating in various races, including marathons and challenging climbs, all while advocating for mental health support. He discusses the logistics of racing with a wheelbarrow, the importance of community support, and his fundraising efforts for the Lighthouse Construction Charity. Ben also reveals his plans for a world record attempt and offers advice for others looking to combine running with charitable causes.
Takeaways
Ben Brindley runs races with a wheelbarrow to raise awareness.
The wheelbarrow symbolises the invisible burdens people carry.
Ben has completed various challenging races with the wheelbarrow.
He raises funds and awareness for mental health in construction.
The Lighthouse Construction Charity supports mental health in the industry.
Ben's fundraising is a mix of awareness and financial support.
He engages the community by sharing his journey on social media.
Ben's world record attempt is for the fastest marathon with a wheelbarrow.
He emphasises the importance of training with the equipment used in races.
Ben encourages honesty and authenticity in fundraising efforts.
Titles
Running with a Purpose: Ben's Wheelbarrow Challenge
Breaking Barriers: Mental Health Awareness through Running
Sound Bites
"I run many races with a wheelbarrow."
"The barrow represents the invisible load."
"I've done silly things with a wheelbarrow."
"I take people on the journey with me."
"Be honest about who you are."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ben's Journey
02:59 The Wheelbarrow Challenge Begins
05:52 Race Logistics and Safety
08:52 Mental Health Awareness and Fundraising
12:11 The Lighthouse Construction Charity
14:58 Fundraising Strategies and Community Engagement
18:09 World Record Attempt Plans
20:56 Challenges and Triumphs in Running
24:04 Advice for Aspiring Fundraisers
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Jeremy, a Cornishman living in north London, is no stranger to setbacks in his running career. Surgeries on both knees and two heart procedures would have been enough to end most people's running aspirations, but not Jeremy's. He still runs most days and shows us all that where there is determination and motivation it's still possible to deal with setbacks along your running journey.
For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
running, marathons, medical challenges, personal stories, fitness, training, overcoming obstacles, park run, race experiences, health
Summary
In this conversation, Tim interviews Jeremy Alford, who shares his extensive running journey, including his experiences with marathons, overcoming medical challenges, and the importance of training. Jeremy discusses his early days of running, the impact of surgeries on his fitness, and the lessons learned from various races. He emphasises the role of crowds in races and shares his aspirations for future running events, including park runs.
Takeaways
Jeremy started running at university, initially for fitness.
His first marathon was in Wolverhampton in 1987.
He ran the London Marathon in 1989, achieving his best time.
Jeremy faced knee surgeries that impacted his running.
He was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation in 2023.
After a catheter ablation, he has been able to return to running.
Running provides Jeremy with a mental space for thinking.
Proper training is essential for marathon success.
Crowd support can be both motivating and distracting during races.
Jeremy aspires to run marathons in Berlin and Seville.
Titles
Running Through Challenges: Jeremy's Story
From Marathons to Medical Surgeries: A Runner's Journey
Sound Bites
"I started running probably at university."
"I did that in three hours, 19."
"I had some knee surgery on my left knee."
"I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation."
"I would give myself time to acclimatise."
Chapters
00:00 Jeremy's Running Journey Begins
05:05 Overcoming Medical Challenges
13:10 Lessons from Marathon Experiences
20:02 The Role of Crowds in Races
23:31 Future Aspirations and Park Runs
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Aoibheann from Derry has scoliosis, but still managed to run 100km in a month during her 30 Day Challenge. She also raised an incredible £1000, a fantastic achievement, especially when you take into account everything else she had going on, including playing for her local football team!
If you'd like to follow in Isabelle's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, take on a 30 Day Challenge, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Will at will.thommes@ssr.org.uk You can find details of the 30 Day Challenges here https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/ssrvehome
To find out more about Scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk
Thank you.
PODCAST NOTES
keywords
scoliosis, fundraising, running challenge, awareness, community support, personal journey, health, surgery, athleticism, inspiration
summaryIn this episode, Tim interviews Aoibheann, a young woman who has raised significant funds through a 30-day running challenge while managing her scoliosis diagnosis. Aoibheann shares her journey from diagnosis to surgery, the challenges she faced during training, and the motivation behind her fundraising efforts. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, raising awareness about scoliosis, and the inspiring stories that keep her going. Avine's determination and athleticism shine through as she prepares for her upcoming surgery and reflects on her future aspirations.
Takeaways
Aoibheann diagnosed with scoliosis at age 13.
Her curve worsened during COVID, leading to the need for surgery.
She completed a 100 km running challenge in 30 days.
The challenge was inspired by friends running for charity.
Aoibheann raised awareness about scoliosis through her fundraising.
Community support played a crucial role in her journey.
She experienced little pain while being active despite her condition.
Raising funds helped her stay motivated during the challenge.
Aoibheann's family was instrumental in her fundraising success.
She aims to inspire others with her story and fundraising efforts.
Titles
Aoibheann inspiring journey with Scoliosis
Running for Awareness: Aoibheann's 30-Day Challenge
Sound Bites
"I have to get surgery now."
"I had no pain at all when I'm being active."
"COVID really set me back there."
"The running community is unbelievable."
"I would love for it to happen."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Aoibheann's Journey
01:30 Diagnosis and Progression of Scoliosis
03:28 The 30-Day Challenge: Motivation and Goals
06:05 Training and Balancing Life with Scoliosis
09:35 Raising Awareness and Funds for Scoliosis
11:41 Community Support and Personal Stories
18:04 Future Aspirations and Challenges Ahead
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Isabelle Hunter from near Reading in Berkshire only decided to take on her local Wargrave 10k in January as a New Year resolution. Two days later she'd passed her £300 target. Soon after she passed £500 and is now just a few pounds from £1000, with more than three months still to go until race day. She has shown that scoliosis won't stop her completing the event on what will be the 10th anniversary of the surgery and here she shares her determination to support the charity and how she has used her marketing and broadcast background to far exceed her fundraising expectations.
If you'd like to follow in Isabelle's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Will at will.thommes@ssr.org.uk Thank you.
To find out more about Scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
scoliosis, fundraising, running, charity, health, recovery, social media, marketing, awareness, support
Summary
In this episode, Tim Rogers interviews Isabelle, a scoliosis survivor who shares her journey from diagnosis to recovery and her current endeavour of running a 10K to raise funds for scoliosis support. Isabelle discusses the challenges she faced with scoliosis, including her surgery and the impact on her childhood sports activities. She highlights her fundraising success, having raised £920 for the charity, and shares insights on how she utilised social media and marketing strategies to engage her support network and promote her cause. The conversation emphasises the importance of community support and the power of social media in fundraising efforts.
Takeaways
Isabelle was diagnosed with scoliosis at age 12.
She underwent surgery at 14, receiving titanium rods in her spine.
Isabelle started running during lockdown to improve her fitness.
She is raising funds for scoliosis support through a local 10K.
Isabelle has raised £920 so far, exceeding her initial target.
Community support has been crucial in her fundraising efforts.
Social media, especially Instagram and TikTok, plays a key role in her campaign.
Using marketing skills has helped her effectively promote her cause.
Fundraising doesn't require large events; small efforts can yield significant results.
Isabelle aims to raise £1,500 by the time of the race in June.
Sound Bites
"I've raised unbelievably £920 already."
"I wanted to get into running in lockdown."
"I felt like such an imposter in January."
"I didn't do PE for so many years."
"I've got such an incredible support network."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Isabelle's Journey
01:52 Living with Scoliosis: Diagnosis and Treatment
04:46 The Road to Recovery and Running
10:06 Fundraising for Scoliosis Support
12:41 Marketing Strategies for Fundraising
20:29 The Power of Social Media in Fundraising
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Ash in North Wales is determined to get into running to help her lose weight and to rediscover the excitement of finishing a road race. Her first experience of this was at the massive City2Surf event in Sydney ten years ago and now it's time to feel it again, with some fundraising as well. She has started by completing a 30 Day Challenge at home and raised funds for Scoliosis Support & Research and now it's on to the next stage, a 10km road race in the north west in June 2025. Follow Ash as she tackles the challenges of day to day life and fitting in those all important training runs.
If you'd like to follow in Ash's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Will fundraising@ssr.org.uk. Thank you.
To find out more about Scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
running, fitness, charity, training, goals, mental health, injury management, family, motivation, accountability
Summary
In this episode of the Runner Stories podcast, Tim Rogers speaks with Ash, a newcomer to running, about her journey to take on a charity challenge and prepare for a 10K race. Ash shares her initial struggles with getting back into running, her training strategies, and the importance of setting achievable goals. She discusses the challenges of balancing family life with her running aspirations and emphasizes the significance of commitment and accountability in her fitness journey. The conversation highlights the mental and physical benefits of running, as well as the motivation that comes from participating in charity events.
Takeaways
It was a hard start, but rewarding.
Taking the pressure off myself helped me start running.
Injury management is crucial for beginners.
Setting achievable goals is important for motivation.
Running with family can improve mental health.
Consistency is key in training.
Finding a charity to support can enhance motivation.
Accountability helps in sticking to fitness goals.
Even small amounts of exercise can make a difference.
It's important to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
Titles
Ash's Inspiring Running Journey
From Couch to 10K: Ash's Story
Sound Bites
"It was a hard start, but rewarding."
"I want to get faster."
"You can always make time."
"It just clears your head."
"It's time to put myself first."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ash's Running Journey
03:04 Overcoming Initial Challenges
05:55 Setting Goals and Charity Involvement
08:57. Training Strategies and Injury Management
11:50 Balancing Family Life and Running
14:59 The Importance of Commitment and Accountability
17:54 Preparing for the 10K and Future Goals
21:12 Encouragement for New Runners
25:06 Conclusion and Future Check-in
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Ally Lewis from Southeast London is running the 2025 London Marathon for Scoliosis Support & Research. Everything was going according to plan until a dreaded knee injury, leading to the first of many visits to her local physiotherapist. Listen as Ally tells us how she dealing with this setback and the amazing story of her nephew who is inspiring her journey.
If you'd like to follow in Ally's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Will fundraising@ssr.org.uk. Thank you.
To find out more about Scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
running, marathon, scoliosis, charity, training, mental resilience, fundraising, injury recovery, motivation, personal story
Summary
In this episode of the Runner Stories podcast, Tim Rogers speaks with Ally, who is training for the London Marathon to raise funds for Scoliosis Support and Research. Ally shares her nephew's inspiring journey with scoliosis and the surgeries he has undergone, which motivate her to run. She discusses her training challenges, including a knee injury, and the mental resilience required to push through. The conversation also touches on fundraising efforts and the importance of sharing personal stories to connect with potential donors. Ally emphasises the need to stay focused on her goals and the support she receives from her family and friends.
Takeaways
Ally's motivation for running stems from her nephew's battle with scoliosis.
Training for a marathon can be a roller coaster of emotions and physical challenges.
Injuries can be frustrating, but they teach valuable lessons about patience and self-care.
Mental resilience is crucial in both running and life challenges.
Fundraising for a cause adds a deeper meaning to the marathon experience.
Sharing personal stories can resonate with potential donors and encourage support.
It's important to document the journey, including struggles and triumphs.
Finding joy in running can be achieved by mixing up routes and focusing on the experience.
Proper footwear and injury prevention strategies are essential for runners.
Staying focused on personal goals is key, regardless of others' progress.
Sound Bites
"He's like the strongest person I know."
"Training's been a roller coaster."
"I would absolutely ice it every day."
"I feel like I have to outsmart my brain."
"I think it just hits home a bit."
Chapters
00:00 Ally's Inspiring Journey: Running for a Cause
01:45 Training Trials: Overcoming Injuries and Setbacks
10:32 Mental Resilience: The Power of Motivation in Running
12:36 Fundraising Efforts: The Importance of Sharing Stories
24:02 Looking Ahead: Plans for Training and Fundraising
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Ali Jomehri from north London only took up running in his 60s and quickly rattled off four marathons, including three of the World Marathon Majors. A chronic asthmatic he credits running with transforming his health, with his dependance on inhalers a thing of the past. With his 80th birthday coming up next year he is still running regularly, with the local Park Run a weekly fixture in his diary and he is focused on doing one more marathon! Age is just a number. Listen and be inspired.
For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
running, marathons, health, asthma, fundraising, mental strength, personal journey, age, fitness, inspiration
summaryIn this inspiring conversation, Ali shares his remarkable journey of taking up running at the age of 60, overcoming severe asthma, and completing multiple marathons while raising funds for charities. He discusses the transformative impact of running on his health, both physically and mentally, and reflects on the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. Ali's story serves as a powerful reminder that it's never too late to start a new journey and that perseverance can lead to incredible achievements.
Takeaways
Started running at age 60 due to encouragement.
Overcame asthma through consistent running.
Raised £11,000 for charities through marathons.
Running improved physical health and reduced inhaler use.
Mental strength developed through marathon training.
Participated in multiple marathons across different cities.
The importance of community support in fundraising.
Running provides a sense of purpose and energy.
Plans to run another marathon for his 80th birthday.
Running is a unique sport that offers both physical and mental benefits.
Titles
Running Against the Odds: Ali's Inspiring Journey
From Asthma to Marathons: A Life Transformed
Sound Bites
"I started my run when I was at the age of 60."
"I collected 7,000 pounds for our lovely charity."
"Running for me, it removed the condition."
"It taught me so much about mental capacity."
"Running makes you a stronger person."
Chapters
00:00 Ali's Running Journey Begins
06:01 Overcoming Health Challenges Through Running
11:49 The Venice Marathon Experience
17:51 The Mental and Physical Benefits of Running
23:57 Looking Ahead: Future Marathons and Reflections
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Melissa Woodfield is taking on marathon number two on April 27th in London, in aid of Scoliosis Support & Research. Listen to her fascinating personal story and how she recovered from scoliosis surgery to take on one of the biggest marathons in the world. Her early approach to fundraising has paid dividends and she has already raised £2000. How much will she raise?
If you'd like to follow in Melissa's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Will fundraising@ssr.org.uk. Thank you.
To find out more about Scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
Scoliosis, London Marathon, running, fundraising, marathon training, community support, race day preparation, strength training, nutrition, personal stories
Summary
In this conversation, Melissa shares her inspiring journey of running the London Marathon for Scoliosis Support and Research. Diagnosed with scoliosis at a young age, she discusses her experiences with the condition, her transition into marathon running, and the lessons learned from her previous race in Valencia. Melissa emphasises the importance of race day preparation, community support, and effective fundraising strategies, while also highlighting her training regimen and the significance of strength training in preventing injuries. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of running for a cause.
Takeaways
Melissa was diagnosed with scoliosis at age 11.
She started running in early 2022 and quickly progressed to marathons.
Valencia Marathon taught her valuable lessons about race day preparation.
Pacing oneself at the start is crucial to avoid burnout.
Community support plays a significant role in motivation during races.
Fundraising for Scoliosis Support has been a rewarding experience for Melissa.
Sharing personal stories helps connect with potential donors.
Training for a marathon requires careful planning and nutrition management.
Strength training is essential for injury prevention, especially for runners.
Melissa feels fortunate to have had a good recovery from her surgery.
Titles
Running for a Cause: Melissa's Marathon Journey
From Scoliosis to Strength: Melissa's Story
Sound Bites
"I found Valencia absolutely awful."
"Don't get too sucked into the adrenaline."
"It's just about being on it."
"It's definitely a big motivator."
"I haven't really had any knee problems."
Chapters
00:00 Melissa's Journey with Scoliosis
02:57 The Transition to Marathon Running
06:05 Lessons from Valencia Marathon
08:59 Race Day Strategies and Preparation
12:04 Fundraising for a Cause
15:01 The Impact of Community Support
18:06 Training and Nutrition Insights
21:14 Strength Training and Injury Prevention
23:56 Final Preparations for London Marathon
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Stephen Johnson from southwest London is a keen runner and is taking on the London Marathon for Scoliosis Support & Research. His first marathon was in Barcelona, an experience that gave him plenty to think about. Losing seven toenails taught him so much about looking after his feet during a marathon and he shares this and many other stories on the first of three podcast episodes on his way to the finish in April.
If you'd like to follow in Stephen's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Will fundraising@ssr.org.uk. Thank you.
To find out more about Scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
London Marathon, Scoliosis, running, charity, training, fundraising, personal stories, marathon preparation
Summary
In this conversation, Tim Rogers interviews Stephen, who is preparing to run the London Marathon for scoliosis support. Stephen shares his personal journey as a runner, his motivations for choosing this charity, and the lessons he learned from previous marathon experiences. He discusses his training strategies, the importance of proper gear, and his approach to fundraising. Stephen also reflects on the impact of scoliosis on his family and the advancements in treatment over the years. The conversation highlights the mental and physical preparations necessary for marathon running, especially when running for a cause.
Takeaways
Stephen has been running for over 12 years, starting with park runs.
He chose the London Marathon to support scoliosis, a condition affecting his family.
Preparation is key; Stephen learned from mistakes made in previous marathons.
Training for the London Marathon includes long runs and proper fueling.
Choosing the right shoes and socks is crucial to avoid injuries.
Fundraising can be daunting, but starting early helps alleviate stress.
Personalising fundraising messages can lead to better support.
Stephen's sister's experiences with scoliosis highlight the importance of research and support.
Mental preparation is as important as physical training for marathon success.
The marathon experience is unique; each run teaches valuable lessons.
Titles
Running for a Cause: Stephen's Marathon Journey
Lessons Learned from the London Marathon
Scoliosis Support Through Running
Sound Bites
"I ended up in the medical centre Barcelona."
"It's important to get the right footwear."
"The marathon only really starts at 30k, doesn't it?"
"You just got to get out there and get to people."
"People generally do want to help."
"You have to force yourself not to go out too fast."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Stephen's Journey
01:52 Running Background and Motivation
05:15 Lessons from Previous Marathons
08:00 Training Strategies for London Marathon
11:20 Choosing the Right Gear
13:45 Fundraising for Scoliosis Support
22:06 Personal Stories and Impact of Scoliosis
25:40 Final Preparations and Mental Strategies
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Matt Bown from Derbyshire is running the London Marathon 2025 for Scoliosis Support & Research. His sister suffers from the condition and underwent surgery last year. Working shifts can always be challenging and with marathon training and fundraising to fit in as well Matt talks us through how he is finding a way to make it all happen. Training is going well and he is well on the way to hitting his £2000 target, thanks to great use of his fundraising page and social media.
If you'd like to follow in Matt's footsteps and run your next event for Scoliosis Support & Research, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Will fundraising@ssr.org.uk. Thank you.
To find out more about Scoliosis head to https://ssr.org.uk
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
marathon, training, fundraising, scoliosis, personal story, running, charity, motivation, mental health, fitness
Summary
In this conversation, Tim Rogers interviews Matt, who is training for the 2025 London Marathon while raising funds for Scoliosis Support and Research. Matt shares his personal motivation for running, which stems from his sister's battle with scoliosis and her recent surgery. He discusses his training regimen, the challenges he faces as a shift worker, and the importance of mental resilience in both training and fundraising. The conversation also touches on the emotional impact of his sister's condition and how it drives him to succeed in his marathon journey.
Takeaways
Matt is running the marathon for his sister who has scoliosis.
The atmosphere of marathons can be incredibly motivating.
Training has become something Matt looks forward to.
Strava can create pressure to perform during runs.
Listening to your body is crucial in training.
Fundraising can be challenging but rewarding.
Social media is a key tool for fundraising.
Honesty about struggles is important in sharing experiences.
Long runs should simulate marathon conditions.
Planning is essential for both training and fundraising.
Titles
Running for a Cause: Matt's Marathon Journey
From Scoliosis to Strength: A Runner's Story
Sound Bites
"The atmosphere is unreal."
"I do look forward to them now."
"I was always getting a PB."
"If she can do that, I can do this."
"I'm excited."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Matt's Journey
02:31 Motivation Behind the Marathon
05:08 Training Regimen and Challenges
10:14 Fundraising Efforts and Strategies
16:26 Personal Impact of Scoliosis
20:05 Long Run Experiences and Preparations
26:20 Looking Ahead to the Marathon