THE SAPPHIRE RUNNING ZONE RUNNER STORIES

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY IN THE LONDON SUN AND A FUNDRAISING TARGET SMASHED!

With a marathon as part of her training programme, back in December, Melissa had a different approach to traditional training and it really worked. With £3000 already raised her approach to fundraising also really worked, so it was no wonder her London Marathon adventure was so special. 
Here's Melissa's Just Giving page if you'd like to make a donation.
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
 
London Marathon, running, training, fundraising, race day, nutrition, support, community, advice, experience
 
Summary
 
In this episode of Runner Stories, Tim Rogers interviews Melissa, a dedicated runner who recently completed the London Marathon. Melissa shares her experiences, from the emotional highs and lows of race day to her training journey and the importance of community support in her fundraising efforts. She emphasises the significance of preparation, nutrition, and the overwhelming atmosphere of the marathon, while also offering valuable advice for future runners. The conversation highlights the joy of running and the impact of collective support in achieving personal goals.
 
Takeaways
The London Marathon is an unforgettable experience filled with emotion.
Training consistency is key, but don't be too hard on yourself.
The atmosphere and crowd support can significantly boost morale during the race.
Using technology, like headphones, can help stay connected with supporters during the marathon.
Nutrition strategies should be tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Fundraising requires early planning and effective communication with supporters.
Emails can be more effective than social media for fundraising in a work context.
It's important to focus on finishing rather than achieving a personal best in challenging conditions.
Community support plays a crucial role in achieving fundraising goals.
Future races should be approached with a balance of excitement and respect for the challenge.
 
Sound Bites
"Worlds apart from Valencia!"
"The crowds were just so loud!"
"It felt really smooth and good."
"The last little boost I needed!"
"The goal should be to finish!"
"Everything was textbook!"
Chapters
 
00:00 The London Marathon Experience
03:03 Training Journey and Preparation
06:09 Race Day Emotions and Atmosphere
09:01 Navigating the Course and Support
12:04 Nutrition and Hydration Strategies
15:06 Fundraising Journey and Community Support
17:59 Advice for Future Runners
20:59 Looking Ahead: Future Races and Goals

IT WAS NEVER IN DOUBT; MATT HAS A MEMORABLE DAY IN LONDON.

Matt trained well and fundraised well and that means one thing - a day packed full of positive memories. While the heat added a few minutes onto his time it just didn't matter. He loved every part of his training and it all went perfectly to plan on the day. 
Here's Matt's Just Giving page if you'd like to make a donation.
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, running, training, race day, fundraising, scoliosis, London marathon, runner stories, personal journey, sports
 
Summary
 
In this episode, Tim Rogers speaks with Matt, a participant in the London Marathon, about his unforgettable experience running the race. Matt shares insights into his training journey, the challenges he faced on race day, and the emotional highs and lows of completing the marathon. He also discusses his fundraising efforts for Scoliosis Support and Research, offering tips for future runners and reflecting on his aspirations for future races.
 
Takeaways
Matt had an incredible experience running the London Marathon despite the heat.
He had to adjust his race strategy early on due to weather conditions.
The support from the crowds was a significant motivator during the race.
Matt's training went exceptionally well, with no injuries leading up to the marathon.
He found the first half of the race to be exciting and full of energy.
The mid-race struggle was challenging, especially in the heat.
Matt used headphones in the last 10 miles to help him focus.
He was careful with his nutrition, avoiding new products on race day.
Matt raised funds through social media engagement and live videos.
He plans to continue running and aims to improve his marathon time.
Titles
Matt's Marathon Journey: Overcoming Challenges
From Training to Triumph: A Runner's Story
Sound Bites
"The crowds were amazing, it was just unreal."
"I loved every second of the training and structure."
"I was part of the new Team Green initiative."
"The first half was buzzing, I was going well."
"The crowd really gets you through that last bit."
Chapters
 
00:00 Matt's Marathon Experience: A Day to Remember
02:58 Training Journey: Highs and Lows
05:58 Race Day Preparations: From Expo to Start Line
09:14 The First Half: Energy and Excitement
12:00 Facing the Challenge: The Mid-Race Struggle
15:09 The Final Stretch: Pushing Through Pain
18:03 Crossing the Finish Line: Emotions and Reflections
20:51 Fundraising Journey: Engaging Supporters
24:04 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations

SUCCESS ALL ROUND: AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY AT THE LONDON MARATHON FOR MICHAEL!

Michael only got his London Marathon entry from Kidney Research UK in January this year, but he still managed to raise over £3500 and have the day of his life at the London Marathon 2025. His sub 4 hour time capped off a great campaign, with some innovative fundraising ideas and lots of new friends made at his local running club.
Here's Michael's fundraising page if you'd like to sponsor him.
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
 
London Marathon, running, training, fundraising, race day, charity, marathon experience, running community, race preparation, personal achievement
 
Summary
 
In this episode, Tim Rogers interviews Michael Woodward about his experience running the London Marathon for Kidney Research UK. Michael shares his journey from training highs and lows to the excitement of race day, the challenges he faced during the marathon, and his successful fundraising efforts. He reflects on the support from the running community and the impact of the charity on the event, as well as his future plans for running more marathons.
 
Takeaways
Michael felt ecstatic after completing the marathon, achieving his goal time.
Training for the marathon had its challenges, especially balancing family and mileage.
The social aspect of running with a club enhanced the experience.
Race week was filled with excitement and anticipation.
The atmosphere on race day was electric, with crowds cheering for runners.
Navigating through thousands of runners was a unique challenge.
Michael's fundraising efforts exceeded his initial target, thanks to social media and corporate sponsorships.
The support from the charity and spectators made a significant difference during the race.
Michael plans to continue running marathons and has already set his sights on future races.
The experience of running the marathon has inspired Michael to raise more money for charities.
 
Sound Bites
"The lowest point was the mileage each week."
"It just made it such a social event."
"Manners don't cost anything."
"It's caught hold of me."
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to the London Marathon Experience
02:59 Training Journey: Highs and Lows
05:50 Race Week Preparations
09:00 Race Day: The Start and Initial Feelings
11:59 Navigating the Race: Challenges and Highlights
14:58 Fundraising Success and Strategies
17:56 Post-Race Reflections and Future Plans

DESPITE HIS INJURY CHALLENGES STEPHEN BATTLED TO A GREAT TIME IN LONDON!

Stephen had his fair share of injury challenges during his training, including a fall in a warm up event that led to badly bruised ribs and a bad knee that needed a cortisone injection a few days before the London Marathon...and there was the heat on race day. No worries, he still battled through to a great time and smashed his fundraising target!
Here's Stephen's Just Giving page if you'd like to make a donation.
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
 
marathon, training, fundraising, race day, nutrition, challenges, running tips, Stephen, London Marathon, Scoliosis Support
 
Summary
 
In this episode, Tim Rogers interviews Stephen, who shares his experiences running the London Marathon for Scoliosis Support and Research. Stephen discusses the highs and lows of his training journey, including injuries and setbacks, as well as the excitement of race day. He emphasises the importance of planning, nutrition, and adapting to race conditions. Stephen also shares insights into his fundraising efforts, highlighting the significance of early engagement and targeted communication. The conversation concludes with reflections on lessons learned and the future of running and fundraising.
 
Takeaways
The atmosphere of running a marathon is unparalleled.
Training can be unpredictable with injuries and illnesses.
Planning is crucial for race day success.
Nutrition strategy is essential during the marathon.
Fundraising requires early and targeted efforts.
Personalized communication can enhance fundraising success.
Mental preparation is as important as physical training.
Long runs are vital for building confidence and endurance.
Adapting to race day conditions is key to performance.
Future races may require innovative fundraising strategies.
Titles
Running Through Challenges: Stephen's Marathon Journey
From Training to Triumph: A Marathon Story
Sound Bites
"It was a fun day."
"It's just about planning."
"You need to get in early."
"People are very receptive."
"We live to fight another day."
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Marathon Challenges
03:11 Training Journey and Setbacks
06:00 Race Day Preparations
09:01 Race Strategy and Nutrition
12:03 Fundraising Efforts and Strategies
17:00 Lessons Learned from the Marathon
19:55 Future of Running and Fundraising

A MEMORABLE DAY IN LONDON AND A HUGE FUNDRAISING RESULT!

Riley is a fundraising superstar who developed a raffle that has helped him raise £4400 so far for Scoliosis Support & Research. Combine that with the day of his life in London on April 27 and watching his football team, Crystal Palace win an FA Cup Semi-Final the day before and this was a time in his life he will never forget.  
Here's Riley's Just Giving page if you'd like to make a donation.
If you'd like to follow in Riley'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
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 the homepage.
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
 
London Marathon, Scoliosis, fundraising, running, race day, training, nutrition, personal story, marathon experience, charity
 
Summary
 
In this episode of the Runner Stories podcast, Tim Rogers interviews Riley James, a standout fundraiser for Scoliosis Support and Research, who shares his experiences leading up to and during the London Marathon. Riley discusses the emotional highs and lows of race day, the challenges of training, and the importance of nutrition and hydration. He also highlights his successful fundraising efforts through a raffle and reflects on his personal journey with scoliosis, aiming to inspire others. Looking ahead, Riley expresses his desire to continue running and exploring new opportunities in the sport.
 
Takeaways
The London Marathon is a dream-like experience.
Training can be mentally challenging, especially with injuries.
Race day conditions can differ significantly from training.
Adrenaline plays a huge role in marathon running.
Nutrition and hydration are crucial for performance.
Fundraising can be creatively approached through raffles.
Personal connections to causes can enhance motivation.
Running can be a transformative experience.
It's important to enjoy the journey, not just focus on time.
Future running opportunities are abundant and exciting.
Titles
Running for a Cause: Riley's Marathon Journey
From Training to Triumph: The London Marathon Experience
Sound Bites
"It feels like you're living a dream."
"I think I got nutrition spot on really."
"The crowd will carry you through it."
"Don't rule anything out."
 
Chapters
 
00:00 The Excitement of Race Day
03:06 Training Journey and Challenges
05:59 Race Day Experience and Strategy
08:54 Nutrition and Hydration on the Course
11:56 Fundraising Success and Raffle Strategy
14:59 Personal Connection to Scoliosis
17:48 Future Running Aspirations

LUCY TAKES ON LONDON 2025 AND COMES AWAY SMILING!

Lucy is one of the lucky few to get a ballot entry in the London Marathon 2025 and she made the most of it. Having undergone scoliosis surgery twice she wanted to raise funds for Scoliosis Support & Research and started with a target of £500. A few weeks later she has raised nearly five times that figure and had the day of her life on April 27. Listen to her marathon experiences.
Here's Lucy's Just Giving page if you'd like to make a donation.
If you'd like to follow in Lucy'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
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 the homepage.
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
 
scoliosis, marathon, charity, running, training, fundraising, London Marathon, personal journey, inspiration, health
 
Summary
 
In this episode of the Runner Stories podcast, Tim Rogers speaks with Lucy, a runner who participated in the London Marathon to raise funds for Scoliosis Support and Research. Lucy shares her personal journey with scoliosis, her training experience, the challenges she faced leading up to race day, and the overwhelming support she received from spectators during the marathon. She also discusses her successful fundraising efforts and the importance of sharing her story to inspire others. Lucy concludes by reflecting on her future running goals and the joy of being part of a charitable team.
 
Takeaways
Lucy was diagnosed with scoliosis at 14 and had two surgeries.
She was inspired to run the marathon after watching her dad.
Training for the marathon was both challenging and enjoyable.
Running with friends and family made the training process special.
The race day atmosphere was electric, with immense crowd support.
Hydration and nutrition were key to her race strategy.
Lucy raised over £2,300 for Scoliosis Support and Research.
Sharing her personal story helped her connect with donors.
Being part of a charity team added to her marathon experience.
Lucy plans to continue running but will take a break from marathons.
Sound Bites
"I have scoliosis."
"It was overwhelming."
"I felt very much part of the team."
Chapters
 
00:00 Lucy’s Journey with Scoliosis
02:35 Training for the Marathon
06:35  Race Day Experience
11:08The Atmosphere of the Marathon
16:03 Crossing the Finish Line
20:00 Fundraising Success
24:06 Inspiration and Future Goals
 

THE DREAM BUILD UP. WILL LONDON 2025 BE THE DREAM DAY?

Jade's London Marathon 2025 training and fundraising has all gone to plan and even a bit of 'Runner's Knee' didn't hold her back. With £3400 already raised can she combine an unforgettable day with £4000 for Cornwall Hospice Care? If you missed Jade's early training and fundraising stories you can hear them on Episode 1.
Here's Jade's Just Giving page if you'd like to make a donation.
If you'd like to follow in Jade's footsteps and run your next event for Cornwall Hospice Care, or you're interested in one of the charity's London Marathon entries, email Jade -  jhugo@cornwallhospice.co.uk 
To find out more about Cornwall Hospice Care head to https://www.cornwallhospicecare.co.uk
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 the homepage.
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
 
Running, marathon, training, fundraising, injury management, mental health, community support, race preparation, personal growth, Cornwall Hospice Care
 
Summary
 
In this episode of the Runner Stories podcast, Tim Rogers speaks with Jade, who is preparing for the London Marathon while fundraising for Cornwall Hospice Care. Jade shares her journey from training for her first organized race, the Falmouth Half Marathon, to managing injuries and building a supportive community. She discusses her fundraising strategies, the importance of mental preparation, and her plans for running after the marathon. Jade's insights provide valuable lessons for both novice and experienced runners alike.
 
Takeaways
Training for a marathon requires a gradual build-up of mileage.
Injury management is crucial; listen to your body.
Joining a running club can provide support and motivation.
Incorporate strength training and flexibility exercises into your routine.
Practice with electrolytes early in your training.
Mental preparation is as important as physical training.
Fundraising can be approached through multiple channels.
Personalising your fundraising page can increase donations.
Community support plays a significant role in fundraising success.
Post-marathon, it's important to maintain fitness and continue running.
Titles
Running for a Cause: Jade's Marathon Journey
From Novice to Marathoner: Jade's Story
Sound Bites
"It's my very first proper race."
"I do like wearing headphones."
"I reached £1,500 really quickly."
Chapters
 
00:00 Journey to the Falmouth Half Marathon
02:56 Training Insights and Overcoming Injuries
06:07 Marathon Preparation Tips
09:06 Fundraising Strategies and Success
17:55 Race Day Anticipation and Mental Preparation
25:51 Future of Running Post-Marathon

THE IT BAND CURSE - A COMMON RUNNING INJURY. SIAN BATTLES ON TO LONDON

Sian's training had been going so well. She followed her training plan to the letter, run the hilly Run Falmouth Half Marathon in Cornwall, got to 16 miles on her long run and then it struck -  a knee twinge developed into the dreaded IT Band problem; 'Runner's Knee' as it's known. Will she able to get on to the start line in London?
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 the homepage.
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
 
London Marathon, Cornwall Hospice Care, running injury, fundraising, marathon training, race day, runner stories, Sian George, Tim Rogers, marathon journey
 
Summary
 
In this episode of the Runner Stories podcast, Tim Rogers speaks with Sian George about her journey leading up to the London Marathon for Cornwall Hospice Care. Sian shares her training experiences, the challenges she faced, including an injury, and her strategies for race day. She also discusses her successful fundraising efforts and the emotional rollercoaster of preparing for the marathon. Sian emphasizes the importance of flexibility and support during this journey, highlighting the significance of achieving her goals for charity.
 
Takeaways
Sian's training has been a roller coaster experience.
The Falmouth half marathon was a significant milestone.
Injuries are common and can be frustrating for runners.
Sian's injury may be linked to her training intensity.
Physiotherapy has provided positive feedback about her marathon prospects.
Fundraising efforts have exceeded expectations, raising over £2,500.
Planning and early bookings are crucial for successful events.
Flexibility in race day strategy is essential due to injury.
Emotional support from friends and family is vital on race day.
The ultimate goal is to complete the marathon and raise money for charity.
 
Titles
Running Through Challenges: Sian's Marathon Journey
Injury and Resilience: A Runner's Story
Sound Bites
"I ran 16 miles today!"
"I plan to walk at the worst."
"Book as early as you can."
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Sian's Marathon Journey
02:57 Training Progress and Challenges
06:01 Injury and Its Impact on Training
08:58 Physiotherapy and Recovery Insights
11:46 Adjusting Race Day Expectations
15:02 Fundraising Success and Strategies
17:47 Final Preparations for Race Day

TAPER TALES AND FUNDRAISING INNOVATION: MATT'S READY FOR ACTION

The taper is always a strange experience. After weeks of intense training, suddenly it all slows down. In Episode 2 Matt talks us through the challenges of dealing with the last 3 weeks of marathon training and also gives some great fundraising tips that could make a real difference to your fundraising efforts. He has had a great build up to the London Marathon 2025 and is ready for action! If you missed it here is a link to Episode 1.
Here's Matt's Just Giving page if you'd like to make a donation.
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
 
running, marathon, taper, nutrition, fundraising, mental health, community support, race day, training, advice
 
Summary
 
In this episode of the Runner Stories podcast, Tim Rogers speaks with Matt, a runner preparing for the London Marathon. They discuss the challenges of tapering, the importance of long runs, nutrition strategies, and the mental aspects of training. Matt shares his fundraising efforts for Scoliosis Support and Research, his future running goals, and offers advice for new runners. The conversation highlights the community support and personal growth that comes with marathon training.
 
Takeaways
The taper period can feel strange and challenging for runners.
Long runs can be mentally taxing, especially in warmer weather.
Nutrition and hydration are crucial for race day performance.
Fundraising can be enhanced through community engagement and creative strategies.
It's important to enjoy the running journey and not stress too much about fundraising.
Listening to your body is key; don't push through injuries.
Building a supportive network can help with both training and fundraising.
Using social media to share progress can motivate donors and supporters.
The atmosphere on race day is invaluable; consider whether to use headphones.
Setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories can boost confidence.
 
Titles
Navigating the Taper: Insights from a Marathon Runner
Long Runs: The Mental and Physical Challenge
Sound Bites
"It's hard, really, yeah."
"It's all about the running now."
"It's a strange sensation."
Chapters
 
00:00 The Taper Experience
02:54 Long Runs and Training Insights
05:56 Nutrition and Race Day Preparations
09:00 Fundraising Strategies and Community Support
12:00 Future Goals and Reflections
14:48 Advice for New Runners
17:59 Mental Preparation and Race Day Nerves
 

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! A CHALLENGE COMPLETED, BOTH ON AND OFF THE ROAD

Frank White set himself a challenge, to run 3 half marathons in a month for the Young Lives vs Cancer charity. He started with his local half in Bideford, then took on Bath and finished off with London Landmarks, one of the UK's biggest. How did he get on and how did his fundraising go? 
You can listen to Episode 1 here 
To help Frank raise a little bit more head to his fundraising page here 
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 the homepage.
PODCAST NOTES
Keywords
 
running, half marathon, fundraising, race report, personal best, London Landmarks, training, race day, charity, athlete
 
Summary
 
In this episode, Tim Rogers interviews Frank White about his recent running challenges, including three half marathons in a month for charity. Frank shares his experiences from each race, detailing the differences in atmosphere, support, and personal achievements. He discusses his race day preparations, pacing strategies, and fueling techniques, culminating in a personal best at the London Landmarks Half Marathon. Additionally, Frank reflects on his successful fundraising efforts for Young Lives vs Cancer and shares his future running plans.
 
Takeaways
Frank ran three half marathons in a month for charity.
He achieved a personal best of 1 hour 54 minutes.
The atmosphere at the London Landmarks was unmatched.
Pacing strategies were crucial for his success.
Proper fuelling made a significant difference in performance.
Frank's fundraising efforts exceeded his initial target.
He plans to continue participating in half marathons.
The support from friends and family was invaluable.
Experiencing iconic landmarks while running was surreal.
Frank is considering training for a full marathon next.
Titles
From Half Marathons to Personal Bests: Frank's Journey
Running for a Cause: Frank's Fundraising Challenge
Sound Bites
"I was aiming to try and get to 15"
"I got a PB hour 54 seven seconds"
"I upped my target again and upped it to 750"
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode
02:52 Frank's Half Marathon Challenge
06:12 Race Experiences: Biddeford, Bath, and London Landmarks
09:07 Preparation and Carb Loading for Race Day
11:46 The Start of the London Landmarks Half Marathon
14:55 Pacing Strategy and Early Race Dynamics
18:08 Navigating the Course and Iconic Landmarks
20:55 The Atmosphere and Crowd Support
23:48 Fuelling Strategy During the Race
27:02 Favorite Moments and Landmarks During the Race
30:04 Finishing Strong: Achieving a New PB