Nell McAndrew
M00o93H7pQ09L8X1t49cHY01Z5j4TT91fGfrNell McAndrew says…
1. What inspired you to take part in the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon?
I love running and I am always trying to encourage others to get involved. It’s a great way to keep fit and healthy and support a charity at the same time. Last year I ran the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon dressed as a woodland fairy for Rays of Sunshine Charity. This year I am running in support of The Royal Parks Foundation.
2. What is your level of running?
I feel fitter now than I have ever felt. I feel like I am improving with age! I like to push myself. It can be hard trying to squeeze running in to my day around being a mum and working but it’s always worth it.
I ran 1hr 26mins last year so was really pleased. It was worth running fast to get to be one of the first in the queue for the post-race massage by Kim from Matt Roberts in the VIP tent!
I am always writing about how my training is going or about the various runs that I have taken part in on my website nellmcandrew.tv
3. How has training for our half marathon improved your health & well-being?
Running makes me feel better in myself, happier, more confident, de-stressed, helps me feel like I can cope with whatever happens, makes me calmer, more energised, improves my skin and I am hoping helps keep me looking younger in years to come!
4. What is your lasting memory from race day?
I started the race last year. Seeing all those thousands of people, a sea of people crossing the start line was amazing. There was a real buzz and excitement as everyone set off. The year before I took my mum and my son and after I had finished running we stood and cheered other runners, urging them to the finish line.
5. What do you remember seeing along the route?
It’s great how you got to see so many supporters cheering you on. Because the course winds round, you can get to see the same people cheering you on at different points. Great London landmarks as well.
6. How has running changed your life?
Running has definitely improved my life. I love feeling fitter, makes me a better mum and I plan on running still when I am 80!
7. What motivates you to get out of bed and train?
I have just completed a ‘Leadership in Running’ course with Run England which is part of UK Athletics as I am planning on starting my own running group very soon. I am always motivating myself and am looking forward to helping motivate other people to feel their best.
8. What are three things that make the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon stand out from other running events?
It’s the only race that will take you through London’s fantastic Royal Parks. It’s very well organised.
9. Why would you encourage people to take part and enter the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon and run for charity?
It’s a great feeling of achievement when you cross the finish line. It’s a great way to challenge yourself, a good family day out, great atmosphere, great way to see sights of London and the fantastic Parks that London has to offer. It will make you feel good, improving your health and fitness and helping others at the same time, supporting a charity that you are passionate about.
10. What is your top tip for race day?
Be prepared, get your kit ready the night before, eat well and not too late the day before, get up nice and early to have your breakfast so it has time to digest, make sure you pack warm clothes for after as you can get cold once you have stopped running, pack some good nutritious snacks for after.
Don’t race off at the start, pace yourself and enjoy the sights, the atmosphere and the support you will get along the course as much as possible.
I love running and I am always trying to encourage others to get involved. It’s a great way to keep fit and healthy and support a charity at the same time. Last year I ran the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon dressed as a woodland fairy for Rays of Sunshine Charity.
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