When did you fall in love with running?
At school, I was one of the few kids to take pleasure in cross-country. But my running went on the back burner in my teens as I began living like a typical chef – i.e. drinking and smoking lots, and sleeping very little. It all changed when my daughter arrived, 23 years ago, and I decided to give up smoking. Like many other people, I was inspired by the London Marathon. I said to myself: ‘I’m going to run it one day, and run it well.’ So I trained like mad and got round in 3hrs 27mins. I was really chuffed. I’ve now run 20 marathons.
What does running give you?
Freedom. It’s a chance to be alone. My life is very busy and I’m constantly on the go. Running is a time to get away from all that. It’s peaceful and heavenly. When I’m running, I’m in another world.
Is it hard to fit in around the day job?
It can be a struggle but it is doable. A few years ago, I used to run a half-marathon distance at lunchtime, work until almost midnight, have five or six hours sleep, and then start again. It’s all about time management. Running is not two hours wasted; it’s time invested. Because when I’m running, I’m working through problems in my mind. I return physically tired but mentally refreshed.
Can running make you a better person?
Regular aerobic exercise certainly makes you think clearer. You’re calmer, more relaxed and in a better state to make decisions. Running also teaches you discipline. You have to say: ‘I’m dedicating this hour to running because my life can’t function properly without it.’
Where’s your favourite place to run?
I live near Clapham Common and do a few of my shorter, faster runs there. I really enjoy fartlek and interval work. I have a few favourite longer runs that either go through Battersea Park or along the Embankment – I still love to run alongside the Thames.
What do you eat before a marathon?
I always eat at the same restaurant the night before the London Marathon – Le Pont de la Tour. I don’t even have to book anymore; they know I’ll be there. I eat grilled Dover Sole, boiled potatoes and spinach, washed down with one glass of wine. When it comes to pre-race nutrition, my advice is to keep it simple: don’t try anything new.
Can you imagine your life without running?
No – I’ll keep on running as long as my joints will allow me.
