Confessions of a Distinctly Average Runner
Running started as a way to make friends when I moved to a new country and I didn’t know anyone. I never expected it to become something so life-changing. What began with an old pair of trainers and a lot of self-doubt has turned into one of the most important habits in my life.
My first runs were tough. I joined a club in Cape Town called Run Walk For Life and was met with nothing but encouragement. Their simple mantra – one foot in front of the other – stuck with me. It turns out that’s not just good running advice; it’s good life advice too.
I’m not a fast runner. I’m not even a particularly disciplined one. But when my shoes are on and I’m outside, I’m in my happy place, whatever the weather. At the start, my only goal was to run 5k. It felt impossible. Then a friend said, “If you can run 5k, you can run 10. And if you can run 10k, you can run a half marathon.” She was right and since then I’ve run countless half marathons and even a couple of full marathons. If I can do it – so can anyone!
Running has taught me a few powerful lessons:
- You never regret a run (literally never – I challenge you to prove me wrong!)
- The only competition is with yourself – don’t measure yourself against others – there will always be people better than you. But do you know what? There will always be people worse than you as well. Just be you.
- Running in nature lifts your mood instantly.
- And most importantly – don’t overthink it. If you stop to think about time, weather, or motivation, you’ll talk yourself out of going. Just do it, because… see my first bullet point!
Working at Bath Academy is rewarding, but can be stressful. Days are busy, mentally demanding, and emotionally full. Running gives me a clean break. Once I’m moving, emails and deadlines fade, replaced by calm and clarity. It’s the best reset button I know.
I am currently training for my fourth Bath Half Marathon in March 2026 brings all of this together. Preparing for 21.1 kilometres requires consistency, patience, and belief – but not perfection! There are early mornings, tired legs, and plenty of doubt – but week by week, it adds up. Much like college life, it’s about pacing yourself and avoiding burnout.
Race day at the Bath Half is unforgettable. The atmosphere, the crowds, the shared determination – it feels like a community moving together. If you see me out on the course, Please give me a shout out – every bit of encouragement helps.
Rachel Read
Admissions Officer