Earlier this year, we met some colleagues who were taking on big running challenges in 2025. Let’s catch up with them now!

HOLLIE WILLIAMS – PEOPLE TEAM

Last Sunday 16 March, I ran the Zurich Barcelona Marathon, completing the race in a total time of 4 hours 19 minutes.

Flying out on Friday, it started to feel real as the nerves were beginning to kick in. Whilst I was eager to explore the city in between the time we arrived and the day of the run, I was conscious of saving the legs and ‘carbloading’ on pasta.

Sunday soon came around; the sun was shining with a great atmosphere in the air and I just wanted to get it done! My main goal was to stay consistent, enjoy the sites whilst running the course and cross the finish line in one piece.

With crowds cheering you on and the loud motivational music helping you throughout, the adrenaline kicked in towards the last few kilometres. The feeling crossing the finish is so overwhelming, it takes some time after to kick in what you’ve achieved.

For anyone considering signing up for a marathon, do it! It’s a great challenge to work towards and whilst time consuming, reflecting on the dedication and training feels even more rewarding.

Would I do a marathon again? If you’d ask me on Sunday afternoon, never again. But maybe another time, in another European city.

STUART PENNEY – NEW THEATRE CARDIFF

This April, I’m taking on the Brighton Marathon.

Training has been going well, although a house move last week has meant that I’ve swapped the long distances for lifting some heavy boxes.

As I’m now in the final 2 ½ weeks before the marathon, training is taking up a lot of time, as I’m now running much longer distances.

The days getting longer has helped with this. It’s much nicer to be running in the light, although I’m sure some Cardiff residents will be disappointed that the spectacular light show that is me running with a head torch is coming to an end.

I’m starting to get a bit of a buzz about it now, as we’re so close, and am pretty much at the point now where I just want to give it a go.

CONNOR HARPER – G LIVE

On 16 March, I braved the chill and took on another half marathon as part of my training for the big day (the London Marathon!), and I’m thrilled to share that I beat my personal best by an incredible 17 minutes and 32 seconds!

While the time I finish in has never been my main focus (just crossing the line is the real goal!), it’s reassuring to see the progress and to feel that the finish line might just be within reach.

Hoping Hollie had the best race in Barcelona, and sending Stu loads of luck for Brighton, but I don’t want to speak to either until I’ve done mine in fear of finding out how much it really aches…! 

If you are able to donate, anything is greatly appreciated, as I have a target of £2,000. https://2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/connor-harper