Next up in the spotlight is Marcus Hooper. Marcus joined striders in 2012 and is a regular at training and races and is an all round top bloke.
Age
50
Occupation
I work in media sales for a publisher of trade magazines aimed mainly at the construction industry. This involves asking people nicely to spend their hard earned advertising budget with me, so I've developed a thick skin over the years! I've worked for the same company for 20+ years now and have met some great people over the years. It also gets me to some great places around the country so when my day is done there's plenty of opportunity to run, bike or swim before heading home.
Reason you started running?
I was never going to make the cut for the school football team so settled for the x country team instead, but really it was probably just a progression from hanging out with my mates back in the days when we'd cycle everywhere and play run outs. I am concerned with the level of activity in today's youth, but if you can get them out, then they find their own way....it's just the getting them out bit!
Favourite race distance?
Half marathon- the distance is short enough that you can give it your best but long enough to not have to blow a gasket. I've got down to 1.31 but so far that magic sub 90 mins still eludes me, but I've not given up yet!
Running goals?
I'm more into longer runs at the moment so times aren't that important. I loved the stampede last year and was entered in the Ridgeway challenge this year until it was cancelled.
How often do you train?
I aim for 4/5 times per week, depending on what's in the calendar. Rest days are as good as run days, in my opinion.
What motivates you?
I love being outdoor with great weather and scenery. I enjoy hearing about other runners experiences, which often lead me to my next run or race.
Most memorable race?
NYC marathon: Back in my teens I was a big Hip Hop fan so the idea of running through the 5 boroughs of this mecca and seeing all the places I'd heard mentioned on vinyl was amazing. The twin towers were still up when i ran it in and it seems strange now looking at the photos with them in it. I also took a disposable camera with me, which added an element of reality to the pictures.
It was my first ever marathon. I totally underestimated the distance and decided to take advantage of all the cake at mile 20, subsequently I suffered for the final push but the crowd are unreal and got me over the line.
Injuries
Other than the usual strains I've been lucky to get away with just a bruised ego.
Hobbies
I've always loved art, particularly caricature, landscapes and graffiti. I also really enjoy cooking.
Guilty pleasure
It's hard to beat going for a Monmouth coffee with my daughter. Also hanging out with Elvis....😉
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