Taking on the Basingstoke Half Marathon with Sherfield Park Runners

As a mid-pack runner, I’ve tackled a handful of half marathons; always challenging but always worth the sense of achievement at the end when awarded a medal. However, when I considered running the Basingstoke Half, I hesitated. It’s my home race, but it’s also infamous for its hills, especially around Farleigh Wallop. I wasn't sure if I was really up for it or if I was a good enough runner.

Then, Sherfield Park Runners offered free places to members willing to run for charity, which would mean raising funds for Sherfield Park Community Centre Association. With the club’s support, I decided to take on the challenge. Even better, two other SPR members of similar ability joined in, making training and race day feel like a true team effort. The club leaders also gave me great advice, helping me prepare both mentally and physically for the course so that I overcame my trepidation.

After a few weeks of hard training, race day arrived and it all paid off. Suddenly the hills didn't seem so hard as I took in the views and enjoyed the sense of community from local residents who turned out to cheer us on. Running for the club gave the event extra meaning and seeing club committee members marshalling along the course and familiar faces supporting us at the finish line made it an unforgettable, uplifting experience. With my fellow runners by my side and the club cheering us on, I crossed the line feeling proud, grateful and a more capable runner. And best of all, I helped raise funds for our community.

If you are considering taking up running or perhaps like me, running your first big race, the support and guidance I received from the club really did make all the difference in giving me the confidence to achieve my goal. https://www.destinationbasingstoke.co.uk/half-marathon/