I started running on a treadmill, and now I’m about to undertake the biggest challenge of my life and celebrate my 60th by running the length of Britain in aid of Humanity Direct.
I haven’t always been a runner. In fact, I spent most of my life working at a desk, which led to the typical sedentary lifestyle. After years sitting at a desk job I knew I had to dramatically change my lifestyle. So, on January 4th, 2014, I decided to make a change. It started with a simple goal: lose weight and get fit. After months of treadmill sessions, I joined Parkrun, and I was hooked. From there, I gradually moved from 5kms to 10kms and eventually to half marathons.
But it wasn’t until 2016, when I ran my first London Marathon, that I truly caught the marathon bug. I followed a generic training plan and felt absolutely fit & ready when I came to the start line but my race didn’t go as planned — I had a stitch that lingered for almost half the race, throwing me off my time. On my way home, feeling dejected, I texted a dear friend explaining my disappointment, he responded “never mind, you’ve now got a PB to beat.” That was a lightbulb moment for me & I’ve been chasing the longer distance events ever since.
Lands End to John O’Groats was always one of those “mystical” challenges that seemed out of reach. That is, until late 2021, when I saw a Facebook post by Rat Race promoting their new Run Britannia event – a distance of 1634 km – over a 1000 miles of hills, mountains, moor and valleys.
Could I undertake such a distance? Was I silly for even contemplating it? After all I would be turning 60 in three years time, but what better way to mark it than doing something extraordinary?
One winter morning in December 2021, while out on a pre-Christmas run, I shared my crazy idea with John Houston, an experienced run leader for Play in the Wild UK & fellow Handy Cross Runners club member. I mentioned my madcap idea & asked whether he thought I was up to it (I was really unsure at this point). Coincidentally John had arranged for the group to meet Carla Molinaro (Hoka runner and current holder of the ladies world record for running Lands End to John O’Groats). When I told I was planning to run it in five weeks she replied ‘I could walk it in that time’!
This really made me think it over and for the next three weeks I woke up every morning weighing up whether I really could do it. At the same time my resolve grew stronger until one morning I woke up knowing I had to do it and feeling like I can do it! The next task was to get the approval of my lovely, supportive wife. After six weeks of discussing the logistics, costs, and time away from home, she gave me the green light.
My journey to taking on longer distances hasn’t been smooth sailing. I’ve faced plenty of physical challenges, especially in the early years. I started running on my own, learning through trial and error. It wasn’t until mid-2018 that I joined Handy Cross Runners, which was a game changer. The camaraderie and support I found there kept me motivated and inspired to go further than I ever thought possible. I’d also overcome a serious motorcycle accident at the age of 17, which left me with a badly damaged foot. Thankfully, it hasn’t stopped me from pursuing my running goals — though I’m always mindful of how far I push myself.
Like any runner taking on a challenge of this magnitude, I have my fears. One of the biggest concerns is how my body will hold up. No matter how much training I do, there’s always the risk of injury. The other fear, of course, is the inevitable exhaustion. Running day after day, on a tight schedule, is bound to take a toll. That said, I’m fortunate to have an experienced coach, Lewis Hawkins, by my side. He’s helped me prepare both physically and mentally for this race, and I trust his guidance. I’ve also had brilliant treatment from physical therapist Juliet Lock at the Practice in Thame. Along with the support of the Rat Race team and the motivation of friends and family, I’m confident I’ll make it to the end.
My secret weapon is music! I always do mental maths when I’m running to keep my mind occupied; how long you’ve been running, how far to go….. but sometimes that can creep into doubts about pace and whether I’m going to reach the next mile etc. I’ve tried podcasts and audiobooks but they did nothing. On one particular race when I was feeling tired and anxious I tried Thin Lizzy (my brothers force fed me the music when I was growing up). The anxiety drained away and I went on to easily finish the race. So now I use Thin Lizzy whenever the going gets tough.
I’m really looking forward to embarking on an event for which I’ve been preparing & training for 3 ½ years. I can’t wait to take in the glorious scenery of England, Wales and Scotland, and enjoying the camaraderie of my fellow runners, crossing the finish line at John O’Groats and, along with my supporters, having made a difference to the lives of some Ugandan Children & their families.
The support of my family, friends, employer, Vectaire workmates and friends from Handy Cross Runners club. Like the majority of people in the UK, I believe in helping others and personally support a few charities on a regular basis. As a runner, I spend a reasonable sum of money entering events throughout the year so its great that I can now combine two things by entering the wonderfully run XNRG events, knowing my entry fee goes to Humanity Direct. I like the fact the charity gives children in Uganda, who don’t have access medical care, the operations they need. The stories shown an the website are very moving & I think it a privilege that I – or anyone – can make such a big difference for such a relatively small entry sum. The effort made by those involved in the charity inspirational & I would love to play a small part in their success.
Bob Yates is running a series of ultra marathons starting on January 4th in preparation for Run Britannia on May 30th. You can keep up to date with his progress and donate by visiting his fundraising page here.
