A Humble Beginning

James Finch joined the Cheltenham Running Club a little over a year ago, considering himself a beginner. His journey started with uncertainty, as he aimed to find his pace in the world of running. James recalls, "I didn't know what pace I was. I thought, well, I did this race 10 years ago, and I want to try and get to that." But a quick reality check revealed he had a long way to go to reach his past pace.

Breaking Records and Shattering Expectations

Fast forward to the present, and James is now celebrating the achievement of a personal record in the Manchester Half Marathon, surpassing his 10-year-old record by a remarkable six minutes. He confesses, "I honestly thought I would never get to that pace again. I thought like, you know, 10 years ago, it's too old, you're never going to get there."

Embracing the Racing Addiction

James's journey isn't just about speed; it's also about a newfound passion for racing. He shares how he got addicted to racing, participating in a multitude of local events, including Tewkesbury, Cleeve, and Forest of Dean, spanning distances from 10K to half marathons. He even ventured into major races like the Manchester and Chicago marathons, with the Valencia marathon and an Ironman in Italy on the horizon. James explains, "I've had to guess, I don't know, 40 maybe 45 races this year."

Preparing for Success

James's racing addiction is accompanied by meticulous pre-race routines. He emphasizes the importance of carb loading, pre-race supplements, and the game-changing impact of gels during races. James's advice on nutrition and race-day preparation is valuable for any aspiring runner.

Racing Strategies and Mindset

During races, James focuses on pacing himself and avoiding the common trap of going too fast in the early miles. He emphasizes that it's essential to run your race, stick to your own pace, and stay committed to your strategy. His experiences on the racecourse have taught him valuable lessons that he readily shares.

Racing Preparing for the Ultimate Challenge

As we look ahead to the upcoming Run to Paris event, James discusses how his current training routine, which includes consecutive days of running, swimming, and cycling, will prepare him for the four consecutive days of running in the event.

Conclusion

James Finch's journey is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, the right environment, and a growing love for running. His remarkable story continues to inspire, and his insights offer valuable lessons for both novice and experienced runners. As we follow James's journey, we can't help but feel motivated and eager to pursue our own running goals.