On Your marks…get set…Crowe!

NewVoiceMedia account executive Andrew Crowe will be running the 26.2-mile Brighton Marathon on Sunday for Cancer Research UK. I chatted to him to find out about his progress so far and how he’ll be motivating himself on the big day.

Have you run marathons before?

Never, this is my first one! I’ve run a few half marathons and the Great South Run, and always wanted to challenge myself to a full one.

What made you decide to start running?

I just did it for fitness, but it helped that the Great South Run was right in front of my flat!

How do you plan to tackle this course?

I’ve got my pacing worked out for a four-hour marathon. The fact that I’m running for Cancer Research UK will really spur me on because it’s such a worthwhile cause.

Why did you choose Cancer Research UK?

I have friends and family who have been affected by cancer, so it’s a cause that’s close to my heart. I really wanted to help make a difference.

I’ve run for the charity before, but this is my first major sponsorship.

What do you do when boredom sets in?

Put the iPod on. I run without it until I get bored, then it gives me an extra boost. Thinking about the celebratory pint also helps!

What’s on your iPod?

My friend's a DJ so I listen to his podcast – there’s plenty of energetic RnB on there to get me going!

Have you ever completely annihilated yourself when running?

Yes! I was three miles from home a few weeks ago and didn't know how I was going to make it back as my legs completely gave way!

What does your training routine look like?

Short runs in the week with a medium run on Wednesday. Then a long run on Sundays. I've been running for a while but have really stepped it up since January.

Do you have any tips for anyone running a marathon this year?

Make sure you get the long runs in and pace yourself. If you go out too fast at the start, you'll pay for it in the end.

How much have you raised so far?

Just over £600 so far, and then it’ll be doubled through NewVoiceMedia’s matched funding scheme.

What's next?

I'd like to do another half marathon, but maybe I'll really enjoy this one and want to do more! I'm also going to do the Three Peaks Challenge in June.

Find out how Andrew gets on and sponsor him, here.