All About Rose
ALL ABOUT ROSE
LOVES TO RUN: 5K to MARATHON
How did you start running?
I came to running in a roundabout way. I used to compete to a high standard in Taekwondo and then I broke my ankle, so I could not compete anymore. I was disheartened by it all, until I tried running for fun instead of running for cardio. That was when the obsession began and I have not looked back. I have still loved other sports (road cycling, climbing, netball, tennis, rowing) but nothing is as challenging or rewarding as running.
What is your most memorable running moment?
Nearly every mile of the Paris Marathon. It was my first marathon and it was the most beautiful sunny spring day. Paris is one of my favourite cities so combining my love of running with my favourite city was the perfect way to do my first marathon. I was so proud of myself and happy with my time.
Where is your favorite place to run?
Although, I live in a city, I love running in the countryside and try to as often as I can. My favourite place to run in Bristol is along the river Avon out of Bristol towards Bath. It is quiet, only the odd runner and dog walkers. It is beautiful all year round, even in the winter when it is so muddy you may as well be running through a pig sty.
Do you have a favorite distance to run?
Half-marathon is my favourite distance- its longer and more enjoyable than a 10k, but you do not have to plough as much time and effort into training as you do with a marathon. I am more of a cart horse than a race horse so the longer stuff suits me more. I think I have the potential to do much better over the half distance compared to 10 or 5km.
What is your favorite race memory?
During Paris Marathon at the 30km mark. I just kept thinking I feel good, and being so shocked by it. I was on my split and I remember thinking I have totally got this. I just felt so strong and confident in what my body was capable of. I wish I felt like that every time I ran!
What are your running goals for the future?
I would love to meet the qualifying standard for Boston Marathon 3.35. I would need to drop 11 minutes, but I am always positive and with a little hard work over the next few years – who knows! I would also love to run some more marathons – Boston obviously, Berlin, Copenhagen and Tokyo.
Like everyone, I would like to improve on my PB’s and continue to get so much out of it. I would also like to think I can turn as many people over to the dark side as possible!
How does a typical week of training look for you?
It varies massively. I am a PhD student researching sport and physical activity, so a good week could look like 40-50K with 2 days of weight training and perhaps a bike ride or Yoga. On the other hand if I have a lot of deadlines, like this week, it could look more like the odd turbo session while I read notes, or try to decompress in front of Netflix. These weeks are the worst! I think it was Haile Gebrselassie who said ‘A day without training is like a day without eating.’ I completely understand that. I feel malnourished, body and soul when I have not been able to run. Plus, I am a pain to be around.
Outside of running, what do you enjoy?
If I am not running, I will be outside, doing something active. I love walking, cycling, lifting weights, playing or watching some form of sport (netball, tennis, yoga, rugby, taekwondo). If I am not involved in playing or watching a sport it is usually because I am eating, cooking or reading.
What do you like to wear running?
As little possible! I live in fear of chaffing (though lucky to have never suffered from it) so I like to wear shorts or leggings and a tank top. I hate shoes that are built up and chunky and much prefer running in shoes that are minimal or zero drop. In the winter, I will wear some under armour and gloves if it is really cold but this is Britain so its rarely below freezing.
What are your favorite running accessories?
My Garmin – it revolutionised my training, allowing me to train more specifically by heart rate. Subsequently, I saw a big improvement in my times across all distances. My Salomon hydration pack has been essential on my longer runs 25k + and it is very rare I notice when I am wearing it. Apart from that I am fairly low maintenance.
What type of sneakers do you wear?
I love Saucony, and have not had a bad pair of their shoes. Saucony Kinvara 4 were the best running shoes ever made for racing or training – end of arguement. Kinvara 5 and 7 are okay but got bulky in their design and I prefer a minimal shoe.
For racing 10km/Half distance I love the Saucony A6, their light and minimal but have enough structure and support.
For short distances (5k) I love my Saucony Hattori’s, their light and almost feel like you are running with socks on.
When I am trail running it is my Inov-8 trail Roc 235, their essentially for most of my off road winter running as it’s so wet and muddy here in the winter.
What are your favorite foods?
Although, I am Vegan, it has not really stopped me eating most of the foods I love. If I had to pick something I could not live without it would probably be falafels, but I also love carbohydrates in most forms (pasta, potatoes, bread). Plus, I love anything that is spicy!
Do you have a motto?
If I had a motto it would be “Shut Up Legs” (Jens Voigt – German Pro cyclist) very useful at Mile 25 of a marathon or half way up Mont Ventoux.
Do you have advice for other runners?
No-one ever regretted going for a run.
Photography, courtesy of Rose Cross.
That Pretty Runner