Over 8 years ago, Charlotte (Char) and I met at UCLA where we had both walked on to (and had not long after walked off of) varsity Bruin athletic teams–cross country and swim for Char and myself, respectively. We stumbled upon the mutually beloved sport of triathlon, and were introduced at a UCLA Triathlon club event. After workouts, while eating large amounts of dorm food, we quickly became chums and decided to live together for the summer. That summer, Char and I formed the “Britters” club and enjoyed many a beach run, ocean swim, and delicious carbohydrate-rich meal. Our time together soon came to an end, however, when Char went off to explore South America and later returned to her home country. Yet, the bond that we created is still as strong as ever, and I was fortunate enough to catch up with Char on her recent holiday visit to the states. Her passion for athletics and drive to discover her best self inspire me. Without further ado…
Current place of residence: Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
Hometown/place of birth: Cardiff
Day job: Statistician
Favourite sports or hobbies (besides running): Playing my violin
Current (2016) race goal: To run personal bests in the 800m and 1500m
Best track event: 800m
Dream race: Olympics
Race mantra: Eek maybe I should think of one
When/how/why did you start running? I got in to running towards the end of high school, my teachers told me I had natural talent and I should give athletics a go.
Hardest workout you’ve ever completed: Oh gosh I’m not sure, although there are sand dunes near where I live in Wales and they can be pretty tough!
Most memorable training and/or race moment(s): I think my most memorable race moments are when I’ve run personal bests after lots of hard training and stagnation. It’s a really rewarding feeling.
Words of wisdom to someone considering training for their first running event: I think there’s a lot of pleasure and purpose to come out of training for a running event, and you’ll probably find life’s a bit more enjoyable along the way.
Something you’ve learned about yourself through running: I’m resilient.
Pre-race ritual or superstition: I need to get my eating right – if I’m hungry or full I panic!
Training tips: Focus on sessions
Training pet peeve: Long runs
Why do you keep running? To achieve my goals and because I enjoy the training mentality/lifestyle. My coach is also a massive inspiration for me.
What is something that you are known for? Doing lots of different things/having lots of experiences.
What does “Fuel” mean to you? Food that gives me sustained energy.
What does being “Fit” mean to you? I guess being in my peak physical form.
Pick one:
XC or track? Track
Solo or group training? Group
Chocolate or cheese? Cheese
Watch on your left wrist or right? Right
Morning or evening workout? Evening – I’m not good with mornings in general.
Hat or visor? Hat
Cheerios or Wheaties? We don’t have wheaties in the UK! I also don’t eat gluten so probably couldn’t eat them anyway!
Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate? Tea, unless it’s really good coffee.
Huge thanks to my lovely “Britter” friend for sharing these insights!