Interview with Run Leader Tracey

How long have you been running with ICR?

I started doing parkrun in 2015 but wanted to do more and was finding it hard to motivate myself to go running alone. I saw ICR on Facebook and decided to give it a go. I started running with ICR in October 2017 and did my first 10k in February 2018 - I would never have had the confidence or belief to do that on my own. I was very unfit and started running initially because my husband did parkrun and was encouraging me to go along. I soon found I really liked it (well, mostly!).

How does running make you feel?

Running gives me a sense of achievement and also a sense of wellbeing. Going for a jog with just my music for company helps me put things into perspective. I have to confess to being a bit of a bling collector though, which has also motivated me to keep running! Having not done the beginners course I was nervous about going along for my first free run but everyone was so welcoming from the beginning.

What inspired you to become a RL?

I love being a run leader; knowing that I am able to support women on their exercise journey, even if just to talk through things while doing so. (I do talk a lot though so if anyone has me running next to them and would prefer to run in silence do tell me 😁!) I am generally quite confident but remember how I felt coming along to my first free run and want to do all I can to make everyone feel welcome.

Being a run leader is also a great way to make new friends and it doesn’t matter whether you run a 25 minute 5k or 50 minute 5k: if you have a desire to support women on their running journey you will be a good run leader.

How do you combat front-door-itis? 

I do suffer with front-door-itis, like anyone, but once I get out I usually enjoy myself. I find it helps if I have a specific goal to aim for - a race to train for, or just knowing if I don't go out the team will be a run leader down.

What's your favourite ICR route/training session?

My favourite routes are out and backs. I tend to do my run leading at Needham Market and free runs in Ipswich. Gradually getting used to the routes in Needham Market! 

What’s next for your running journey?

I am 50 this year and have set myself a massive challenge - I am going to run the SVP 50! When I started my running journey four years ago that wouldn’t have even been on my radar as something I would ever do. As for joining a running club? Hell no - all those fit, fast runners making me feel inadequate?! That is why I love ICR: whether you run marathons regularly or struggle with 5k, everyone is so supportive.

I have a very active (and insane) husband who has done all sorts of crazy things including ultras, multi-sport events and this year is going to Africa for the Marathon Des Sables! While he encouraged me to start running, I continue because the sense of achievement for me personally is huge.