Husband and wife team pair up for Purple Wave success

02 Mar 2018

On Sunday, 20 May, the Great Manchester Run is taking place, and once again the University plans to have its own start time and 3,000 staff, student and alumni runners

Teaching, Learning and Support Coordinator Kathy Morgan was part of last year’s Purple Wave and she ran with her husband Dave, who also works at the University.  Kathy and Dave met when they were both students here.

Kathy says: "I entered the race on a whim after my colleague dropped out.  Despite being active, as a non-runner I was initially daunted by the distance.  

"We juggled training with work and 2 young children, running in the evenings and at weekends.  Last year's race was actually the first time we ran together.

"The Purple Wave was really well organised.  There was a great atmosphere and the crowd support was amazing.  Finishing it and getting a medal was a massive sense of achievement."

Kathy has clearly caught the running bug as since then, she has participated in a number of races and joined Chorlton Runners.  As well as this year's Great Manchester Run, she is also running the Greater Manchester Marathon in April for the charity Mind and the Half Marathon in May.  

Here's Kathy's top tips for success:

• There are many training plans available online – pick one suitable for you and try to stick with it. SPORT Manchester has some guided plans whatever your ability.  
• Find a time to train that works for you 
• Vary your routes 
• Listen to podcasts, an audiobook or your favourite music  (turned down low/not noise cancelling headphones)
• Your trainers are really important - have your gait analysed at a specialist running shop to get the right trainers for your running style and a proper fit/size
• Think about building up to enter a Parkrun as part of your training – it’s local, really friendly and free
• Join a running club – the University has them or run with friends

Free places are available for members of staff who commit to raising £100 in sponsorship for Undergraduate Access Scholarships at the University, helping bright young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in Greater Manchester to access a world-class education. 

Discounted places are also available for staff running for other causes, or for none at all. These are limited to 500 places at £30 each and are available through the Sport Manchester eStore. All runners will also receive a free technical running shirt (RRP £19.99) to wear on the day. Sign-ups close on 23 March.

Kathy adds: "I recommend it wholeheartedly.  Running is for any age and all types of ability.  Challenge yourself, you never know where it might take you!"