Chris has battled through some serious life challenges, including cancer, but he's come out the other side in the best shape of his life. He attributes this to his new found passion for running, fitness and fundraising. Previously a junior elite runner and with a sub 3 hour marathon to his name, running took a back seat while life took over and the silent assassin, stress, became a real issue. On this podcast he talks about the need to find time for ourselves and the importance of prioritising our own physical and emotional wellbeing. It's an emotional listen.

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

• Running can be a powerful tool for stress relief.
• Chris's early running journey began in school.
• Injuries can be mismanaged, leading to long-term issues.
• A cancer diagnosis can serve as a wake-up call.
• Setting meaningful goals can drive personal change.
• Fundraising can be a motivating factor for challenges.
• Physical activity is essential for mental wellness.
• Self-care is crucial for overall health.
• Rehabilitation is key to recovery from injuries.
• Finding balance in life is important for well-being.

• Running Through Stress: Chris's Journey
• From Cancer Diagnosis to Fundraising Triumph

• "Running can help alleviate stress."
• "I was diagnosed with prostate cancer."
• "I decided to do a three-day challenge."

Chef Joel Mays III has been bitten by the running bug. He only started running in June 2022 and has already completed 3 marathons with Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. coming up next in October. On this podcast he shares his running journey with us, including what it's like to train in the heat and humidity of Dallas, Texas, as he heads to the London Marathon 2026, where he'll run for the Backcare charity.

You can support him by making a donation on his fundraising page here

If you'd like to follow in Chef Joel's footsteps and run your next event for Backcare, email Denice denice.loganrose@backcare.org.uk. She'd love to hear from you.

To find out more about Backcare head to https://backcare.org.uk

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

• Joel started running in June 2022 and quickly progressed to marathons.
• The community aspect of running is vital for motivation and support.
• Training involves detailed plans and adaptations to local climate conditions.
• Nutrition plays a crucial role in a runner's performance and recovery.
• Joel has completed 3 of the World Marathon Majors, New York, Berlin and Chicago.
• The Boston Marathon is a personal goal for Joel, seen as a 'unicorn'.
• Fundraising for charity races requires early planning and community support.
• Joel's experiences in different cities enhance his love for running.
• He emphasises the mental discipline required for marathon training.
• Running is a passion that brings joy and fulfilment.

• From Novice to Marathoner: Joel's Journey
• The Heart of Running: Community and Support

• "The people make the race."
• "I want to make this my home."
• "I want to run for fun."

Tapantosh Chakrabarty started running marathons in 2000 at the age of 50. 25 years later and he's still at it. With more than 30 of the Majors under his belt, the seven continents and many of the leading destination marathons ticked off, there is literally no stopping him. Listen to his marathon stories and his words of wisdom, as he prepares for his next events, including the 2026 London Marathon for the UK charity Backcare.

If you'd like to follow in Tapantosh's footsteps and run your next event for Backcare, email Denice denice.loganrose@backcare.org.uk. She'd love to hear from you.

To find out more about Backcare head to https://backcare.org.uk

For more podcasts head to https://www.sapphirerunningzone.com/podcasts. We have four channels, one on training support, another on fundraising, a third on runner stories and a fourth on events. If you'd to be the focus on one just let us know using the chat function on the homepage.

PODCAST NOTES

• Tapantosh started running at the age of 50.
• He has completed marathons on all seven continents.
• Running significantly improved his mental health and productivity.
• He developed the STAR training method tailored to his health needs.
• Unique marathon experiences include Antarctica and the Big Five.
• He has run 30 World Marathon Majors, including Boston and New York.
• Running has made his knees stronger, contrary to common beliefs.
• He emphasises the importance of listening to one's body while training.
• Tapantosh chose to support the Backcare charity due to personal experiences.
• He balances training between races to maintain fitness and prevent injury.

• From Bangladesh to Calgary: A Runner's Journey
• The First Marathon: Overcoming Challenges

• "I was looking for a challenge."
• "I got into running in 2000 when I was 50."
• "I ran 30 of the World Marathon majors."
• "Running is good for your health."
• "Running made my knees stronger."