How long have you been a member of Queens Park Harriers?
I joined in summer 2017, so it has been 7.5 years. It feels longer – in a good way. My main roles at QPH are in the coaching and governance/regulatory aspects. A passionate student of training theory, I plan and structure the senior track training sessions, so you can blame me for your Tuesday/Thursday evening exhaustion! I also help more generally with the coaching and competitions & racing volunteer groups. On the governance side, I research and draft the club’s constitutional documents, and ensure that the Club keeps on top of all applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
What's the best thing about running?
The mental and physical health benefits, definitely. My favourite runs are those with friends: running, chatting and putting the world to rights. I’ve spoken openly about having ADHD/ASD, as well as long term mental illness, and I have had neurosurgery that left me with permanent deafness in my right ear and permanent vestibular deficits. Running is a way of helping me come back to myself when life feels challenging. I also love the competition side, especially as part of a team. Winning team medals and trophies for QPH is a big motivator for me.
What's your favourite running event?
My favourite distance to race is probably the half marathon, but i enjoy any race with hills - the hillier the better!
What would you say is your greatest running achievement?
I'm proud to have twice qualified to run for England Masters, and running the best race of my life to win the England and British Masters half marathon title in 2022 was a truly special day. In a QPH vest, winning the Middlesex Masters XC in 2018 and 2019, which helped QPH win the female team gold too, also has to be up there.
What else do you do?
I work in the City as a solicitor, and my familiarity with drafting documents has proven useful in helping QPH with the governance and policy aspects of operating as a running club. Sport is my passion; I spend most of my spare time watching, playing, coaching, volunteering and talking about sport – any sport will do! In addition to running I love strength training, yoga and cycling. I have two cats who keep me entertained and 'help' with my work by sitting on the keyboard…
Tell us something surprising about yourself that other members may not know
I'm a classically trained soprano, and used to sing opera.
