Platform 51

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Categories: fundraising
Wednesday, 9 March 2011
Interview with Finola Wilson

We found out why Finola wanted to Run Wales for Platform 51

Ten years ago Finola Wilson was overweight and smoked. Last week she ran the length of Wales: 227 miles in a week. We spoke to her about her amazing challenge.

What made you decide to take on such an amazing challenge?

I don't actually remember the moment when I said that I was going to run Wales. I remember being inspired by Eddie Izzard (he ran 43 marathons in 51 days for Sport Relief). I had done a couple of ultra marathons (anything longer than a normal marathon) and I thought I'll see if I can do this.

What made you run for Platform 51?

I work for the Women's Running Network in Wales and run a power walking group that is all women. So I spend 99 per cent of my time with women. Also women's charities aren't really as trendy as other types of charities and I thought if I would be good to get some publicity and raise their profile. I googled women's charities and found out about Platform 51.

What was the hardest bit of the run?

The only moment of doubt that I had was on day one. I got lost around Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (longest place name in UK) and it added an extra two miles to the day. Inside I was dying and I thought 'how am I going to do this'. But I had a chat with my therapist, a drink and a snickers bar and felt better. You just have to think how much do I want this? And I really wanted it. Just do the next mile and try and ignore the whole thing.

How good was it to finish?

I really felt I finished the day before the actual finish when I saw the sea again. I ran down the road grinning from ear to ear, laughing. I felt invincible. I couldn't believe I'd done it!

What is your next plan?

I bought my husband a half marathon for Christmas. So we are doing the Forest of Dean half marathon in a couple of weeks. 

Andy McMenemy is doing 66 ultra marathons (31 miles) in 66 days and he has asked me to do the Swansea one.

As far as big plans there is nothing concrete yet. I don't really like to say because then I have to do it, but I would like to do a 50 to a 100 miler in one go.

What advice would you give to someone who is starting running or taking up a big challenge?

Give it a go. Sign up for something and worry about it later. You don't know what you can do until you try. So just give it a go.

Finola is only £32 off her fundraising target. Can you help her reach her goal? Sponsor Finola today.