Run plus evening runner Helen Scieracki appeared in a post earlier this year after securing a podium finish at Warsaw half marathon. I felt that made her a perfect contender for our “Getting to know…” feature. Don’t worry Helen is not defecting to a running club who wear green! She has a friend who lives in Cornwall and went out with her and her club – Hayle Runners – when she stayed over.
When did you get into running and why?
For many years I did karate and maintaining a good level of fitness was always very important to me. I made many friends over the years and during this time we would go to 3 /4 karate lessons a week. In addition to these training sessions we also went to circuit training classes and to warm up we would go for a run first. This is when love for running really started.
I was fortunate enough to work for the company who made the medals for the London Marathon and so got an automatic place in the London Marathon. This was before running became so popular.
In total I have completed ten marathons, eight London, one Dublin and one Birmingham Marathon. None of these particularly quickly! I’ve also completed numerous 10k’s and half marathons! To be honest, I’ve lost count!
What’s your next event?
Hence, having been running with SE Fitness for a number of years now I’d like another go at the marathon distance. 2019 has been a good years running for me at various distances, and so I’ve decided to enter the Chester Marathon which is on 6 October. Would anyone like to join me?!
Favourite SE route?
Bracebridge 45. It’s a lovely route running through the trees.
5k, 10k, half or full marathon?
Half Marathon.
What’s your best event – the one that you would recommend?
I have a couple of favourite events! I’d recommend The Dingle Marathon for its amazing views out over the Atlantic Ocean, although it’s not an easy run! More recently I completed the Warsaw Half Marathon and almost got a PB. It’s reasonably flat, well organised and a lovely city to run through. My run in Warsaw was made special as a very good friend of mine ran with me. Not only did we enjoy running together we also had a great weekend.
Winter or Summer?
Either! That’s the great thing about running.
Best nutrition tip if you have one? Jelly babies or sports gel?!
Staying hydrated but not overdoing it either. Gels work for me, especially when the miles get into double figures.
Best treat for after a long run?
A few drinks (alcoholic of course!) and eating exactly what my taste buds are craving without feeling guilty!
I couldn’t get through a run without…….
a pair of running shoes!! Haha!!