For months now, our three women have been training hard for the ASICS Greater Manchester Marathon, battling with busy schedules and, in some cases, niggling injuries. So how did they get on? Christina Neal finds out

PHOTOS: JOSEPH BRANSTON & RICHARD BURNETT

MEET THE EXPERTS

Richard Coates, Full Potential

Richard is a UKA Level 2 running coach, who has been running since his teens. He’s supported the team through every aspect of their training.

fullpotential.co.uk

Gareth Pashley, ASICS

Gareth has been with ASICS for five years, as Category Manager for Running, working across PR and ASICS’ Elite Athletes. He’s ensured the team have got the most from their shoes and kit.

@gazzpash

Ruth McKean BSc, MSc, PgDip RD, ASICS

Ruth is a sports nutritionist and ASICS Pro Team dietitian. She prepares elite athletes for major events, but enjoys helping athletes of all levels realise their true potential.

@ruth_mckean

Sarah Connors, ASICS

On the ASICS Pro Team since 2010, Sarah is a chartered physiotherapist with 25 years’ experience. Now a mum of three, Sarah still practices, treating both elite and amateur athletes.

@sozzley

Stuart Holliday, ASICS

Stuart is a performance psychologist. In 2016, he was a Chimp Management mentor for two GB Olympic teams and now provides psychological training to athletes in golf and athletics.

@focusedmindcoaching

Instagram: @seeking_silver_linings

CAROLINE STAFFORD

Age 37

From Oakham, Rutland

Occupation Self-employed baker and owner of the-kitsch-hen.co.uk

Final race time 4hrs 6mins 38secs

Firstly, tell us about your marathon experience.

I loved it. The atmosphere was amazing and it was incredible to see so many supporters lining the streets and cheering us all on. I found the whole experience very emotional. I felt really choked up at about mile six as it suddenly dawned on me that I was running a marathon, and I took a bit of time to reflect. I expected tears at the finish line but I was so elated to have made it and so happy to see everyone, I was just full of smiles!

What were the best parts of the race?

There was so much support and the other runners were so friendly. I loved running in company and chatting to people. The course was flat which was great, as most of my training has been up and down the hills where we live.