This month’s profile is a Dashers legend and our talented artist, Kerry Elliott. She’s managed to produce a self portrait this month – hope she doesn’t end up cutting her own ear off! If you haven't seen them, check out her amazing pet portraits on her FB page.
1. Do you have a nickname?
No nickname….. apart from the obvious shortening of my name to Kez or Kezza. I’m sure there’s lots I’m not aware of though….
2. What is your favourite piece of running kit/equipment?
My Aftershockz headphones and Garmin watch combo, allows me to listen to music stored on my watch.
3. What is your favourite race and why?
The Darwen Half Marathon: this was my very first half marathon when I was very new to running and the Dashers (2016). I loved the atmosphere, support, and the medal & beer at the end was a welcome bonus. And once you’re past the Crown & Thistle it’s all downhill….
4. Any pbs that you are most proud of? (race or distance)
not PB’s ….. but a few achievements that I’m proud of since I started running:
• Taking part in every Race for Life since 2012. Being guest of honour at the Blackburn event - sharing my story and starting the race off in 2017 was an amazing experience.
• completing the London Marathon in 2017 and raising over £1,000 for two breast cancer charities. My time wasn’t the best but I got round without too many tears.
• My parkrun journey: over 280 parkruns at 100 different venues. Always a great way to start the weekend.
5. What has been your worst running injury?
I’ve been lucky as I’ve had only minor strains and pulls; nothing too serious. It’s more medical issues that have thwarted my running.
6. Improving Dasher to keep an eye on?
Can I mention 2? Janet Greenhalgh with her marathon and other long distance treks. Usually one for the trails, she has embraced road running and found a new love of tarmac. Then there’s Sarah Marsden: she was always one to say she couldn’t keep running up Earnsdale or Tockholes Road without stopping but she has smashed both those hills, taking them in her stride, and going on to run her own non-stop club night group!
7. Where is the most exotic place that you have ever been for a run?
Exotic???? Erm….. you mean Darwen isn’t exotic…..
8. Highlight of your running career so far
Note to self… read all the questions before jumping in to answer. I think I have covered this in Q4. Other than that, starting running has been a highlight. I never thought I would EVER run, never mind complete 2 marathons.
9. Any hobbies we don’t know about?
I think most of you already know this. But for those that don’t, I have recently started drawing, and have been taking paid commissions for drawing people’s pets. I absolutely love this and have had really good feedback. I have a Facebook page for this…. If anyone is interested
10. Interesting fact about yourself
Not sure I’m very interesting, but I am qualified to Level 2 in sign language.
11. Most interesting job (past or present)
I have had the same job in a local high school for the last 22 years - science and design technology technician (which sounds more interesting than it actually is). Drawing pets is way more interesting
12. Dasher you admire and why
Jim Taylor- an absolute Dasher legend. Nothing stops this man; he is always out there running races and trying to beat his last race time. So supportive of everyone, and keen to encourage newcomers onto the fells no matter what their ability is. And his knowledge of the local area is superb; never a dull moment in Jim’s company.
13. Any future running ambition?
At the moment I would just like to get back to enjoying running. I have struggled for the past year and a half, it seems really hard to do an easy run, and I’m just generally struggling to get any motivation to just go for a run. Any tips appreciated!
14. Favourite song on your playlist to run to?
I have quite a mix on my playlists; anything upbeat. Some faves are: 4 minutes (Madonna/Justin Trousersnake) Work B!tch (Britney) and F@ck you (Lily Allen)
15. Which person, past or present, would you most like to run with?
Does Victoria Beckham run???? She must do, as she is teeeeeny. We could chat all things fashion and makeup; she doesn’t take herself too seriously and David could tag along
16. Best thing about the Darwen Dashers
Small & friendly, and always up for a beer
17. Any running (or other) superstitions?
No running superstitions, but I always look for a second magpie.
18. Your perfect, indulgent, post run meal
You can’t beat a Sunday roast with a proper sponge pudding and custard after.
19. One piece of advice for a new runner
Don’t do too much too soon. It’s easy to get carried away when the PBs are rolling in.
20. Sum yourself up in 5 words
Vintage, sweary, quirky, chubby & sarcastic
