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Site last Updated: 24 September

Wellingborough & District A.C.

 

 

Member Profiles

This Weeks Member Profile
 

From Beginner to Marathon Runner!
Tracey Craker!

 

Could you briefly describe what you do for a living?

I am a Credit Controller working for a large fuel distributor company and only joined the company two months ago. I enjoy the challenges this job brings, solving customer queries and learning more skills/taking on more responsibilities.

 

Why do you run?

I needed to lose weight and a friend at work told me that the best way was to start running, and so I did about two years ago.

I found it really hard in the first few months and was close to giving up but I was determined to carry on. I have now lost three stone in weight; I feel fitter and healthier and have more confidence in myself.

 

You joined our beginners group last year! What made you join?

I was running on my own, running the same route/distance but my times were getting slower, I needed to get motivated and start enjoying my running again.

Through joining the beginners I made new friends and we all encouraged each other to do our best. The training plans set by Steve and Alan were varied which kept it interesting and fun!!

 

What do you like about Wellingborough & District?

A small friendly club with members who encourage you and always there to give good advice and tips.

 

Out of the races that you’ve done, which has been your favourite?

All the cross-country races, my favourite being the last one in Bedford with all the water crossings – excellent!

 

Which has been your least favourite?

I can’t say that I haven’t enjoyed a race, I do find them hard but afterwards I feel on top of the world!! (Tony – you can remind me I said that after my next one!!!) However, I am not in any rush to get back to long training runs around Pittsford Reservoir.

 

What made you decide to run the marathon?

I love setting myself new challenges to keep me motivated and I was determined to run one this year.

 

Very few of us knew that you were planning to run the Stratford Marathon, hence you did most of your training by yourself! What kept you going?

Knowing there was a large packet of peanut M&M’s waiting for me at home after my long distances!


On a serious note I knew if I was committed to my training I would be successful in crossing the finish line in hopefully a good time. Also my husband Steve supported and encouraged me whilst cycling along side me on my long runs carrying my water and jelly babies (he has his uses! :)

 

What has been you biggest achievement?

I started taking karate lessons back in 1995 for self defence and fitness. After grading for green belt, I entered competitions and in 1997 won the International Ladies Kumite (free-style fighting) trophy. The most I am proud of was being awarded my black belt in October 2002 after continuing the hard training.

My biggest achievement to date has to be completing my first marathon in Stratford.

 

What is your biggest goal / aim / race you would like to achieve in the future?

I would love to do a triathlon as the training would achieve a total fitness program and something new to keep me motivated.

I would also love to run in the London Marathon, fingers crossed for 2007.

 

Who most inspires you to run?

A few runners have inspired and encouraged me to do my best.

When I first joined the running club Steve and Allan helped me build a good basic in running and made it fun again.

Also Wilson gave me good advice and support leading up to my first marathon and Kirsty who has pushed me to do my best and trying to keep up with her has been a challenge.

 

Favourite food?

Peanut M&M’s

 

Most embarrassing running moment?

I’m sure there will be a time when I make a complete fool of myself but so far so good!!!

 

Previous Profiles

Tim

     

Tom

Tony

Tracey

Paul

 

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