Lauren's Sheffield Half Marathon Story

What made you choose to sign up for the University of Sheffield team at the Sheffield Half Marathon and why? 

I clocked up some miles during the covid lockdowns after rediscovering my love for running. But as things got back to being more normal, running took a bit of a back seat. 

In 2021, I ran the Sheffield 10k as a student, raising money for The Archer Project. I thought the atmosphere was amazing - Sheffield really came alive! Fundraising for a local charity and taking part in the event itself really helped me feel a part of the Sheffield community. 

So, when the email arrived from the University about the Sheffield Half Marathon, I thought it was the perfect challenge, and a great incentive to carry on running through the winter months.

What does fundraising for Genetic Disease Research at the University of Sheffield mean to you?

Through my role at the University, I’ve gotten more of an insight into the amazing work that Sheffield is doing into researching Genetic Diseases. Seeing day-to-day how the money raised through fundraising is giving people hope is incredible, and I want to contribute towards that.

How do you feel about taking on this challenge? 

I feel a little bit nervous as I haven’t ran 13 miles in a couple of years, but I’m mostly looking forward to it! I know it will be a challenge but a really great day as well.  

I have managed to rope 3 of my friends into running with me too, which helps with the training! We’re doing a run a week as a group which has been very encouraging.

Do you have any advice for those who might be considering taking on a similar challenge for GDR?

I would say get involved and push yourself to do something you are slightly scared of. Don’t put loads of pressure on yourself to be able to run crazy distances straight away, just be consistent to start with. And if you can motivate yourself to get outside in January, it will get a lot easier from then on!