WHEN it comes to running half marathons for the first time Kim Southerington could have chosen an easier baptism.
But t
he 34-year-old has made up her mind and so on Sunday, October 15 she will compete in the Oldham Half Marathon, regularly described as “one of the toughest halfs in the UK”.
It is the fourth and final part of the 2017 Milltown to Moors series which includes a triathlon, 7K and 10K races.
Having done the latter two events Kim, 34, is now running the 13.1-mile distance and pushing her boundaries in aid of Oldham Mountain Rescue Team.
“10K has always been my limit and I always said I would never do a half marathon,” she said. “I am not built for running; I am more of a swimmer.
“But for some reason – a moment of madness, maybe – I signed up for them all!
“Originally I was just running it for me but I saw Mountain Rescue were moving headquarters and looking to fundraise.
“I did the Three Peaks last year and I have got the walking bug as well so I thought it was a worthwhile cause.
“And if I ever need them I want to make sure they fully equipped and prepared.
“It’s going to be an effort and real challenge but running for a good cause will hopefully keep me going,” added Kim, a HR business partner. “I will be grateful just to finish.”
With over 1100ft of ascent the Oldham Half, starting with 600 runners from the new Oldham Leisure Centre at 9.30am, poses a great test.
Runners travel a hilly route that includes views of the Saddleworth villages and the moorland landscape of the Peak District National Park.
To support Kim and donate go online: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/kimsoutherington
To find out more about the Oldham Half or to sign up, go to: www.milltownraces.co.uk
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