Link in Focus: Sam’s Half-Marathon

Link in Focus:
Sam’s Half-Marathon

Our member Sam is big into running, and the other day he ran the Basingstoke Half-Marathon – just for fun! We wanted to find out more about why he runs and what process he goes through when preparing, competing and after.

What inspired you to sign up for the half marathon?

The first one? A bet in a pub.

This one though is part of long-term training over the next two years though. Just jogging it to see where I’m at and get a longer run in at speed.

What is it about running that you enjoy?

Running is the only place I shut my mouth for more than 3 seconds. We all know I talk too much because my brain just never stops! Meditative, and testing.

Was there any specific goal in mind?

I’m not in shape to PB the half, I’ll aim for about 1:50 – 1:55 but it’s not imperative.

How did you prepare for the half marathon?

I run about 125 miles a month give or take. Training plan comes from my Garmin watch.

How do you stay motivated while training?

The best way to stay motivated in a group run is to follow a great butt. But as I run mostly solo, I just enjoy ticking off the sessions that my plan provides.

What is the hardest part of training?

Getting Eddie moving on slow runs. He’s great at speed but when I’m doing slower runs, he gets distracted.

How are you feeling about doing the half-marathon?

On the day I’ll get a bit swept up in the start line, that’ll amplify it all and make it a bit more of a thing. But until a couple hours before it’s not too much on my mind.

What was going through your mind during your half marathon?

Am I going to be able to hold this pace. Have I gone out too fast or slow. Am I running with good form. When will I run past someone handing out sweets.

Where there any memorable moments in the race?

There’s a long downhill section passed a country pub called The Fox, they were handing out half pints.

Did you hit “The Wall”? If so, how did you push through it?

See above, a beer works surprisingly well.

How did you feel after crossing the finish line?

Looked at stats, heart rate was good, run was comfortable, more relief than anything I’m on track.

When will be the next long distance run you plan to do?

Over winter I’m aiming to do about five miles every day. I’ll look at a specific marathon next year as another test. Maybe up to 45 mile depending on how I’m going.

Do you listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks while you are running?

I run in barefoot shoes, so I only ever listen in one ear if I do. The sound of my feet is the first indicator if I’m running well or not. Aside from that, normally Prince.

Jonny Robinson