Robert Thewlis Athlete Ambassador
Robert started running to lose weight after his mother passed away. He talks to Sundried about the ups and downs of being a runner.
Have you always been into sport?
Nope! When I was younger, I absolutely hated sport. In 2016, my mum passed away and I vowed to change my life in her memory; I weighed nearly 21 stone. I hired a personal trainer, worked hard, and within 7 months I had lost 7 stone.
What made you decide to enter the world of running?
Having suffered with depression and anxiety after the passing of my mum, I needed a positive outlet. That turned out to be running! I decided to take part in my local Parkrun and it went from there.
What’s been your favourite race to date and why?
The Great North Run. The atmosphere is absolutely amazing and pretty overwhelming. The whole set up was absolutely spectacular and to finish in the top 50% of 43,000 runners was great.
And your proudest achievement?
Completing a half marathon within my first year of running. I set myself the challenge of completing a half marathon before I turned 27; I completed the English Half Marathon the day before I turned 27!
Have you ever had any racing disasters/your toughest race yet?
I attempted my first marathon in May this year. I went in to the race already injured but I was going to attempt it anyway. I managed to get to mile 13 but with a mixture of the injury and the 30 degree heat, I had to withdraw halfway.
How do you overcome setbacks?
Take some time away to recover and re-plan your strategy. Take it back to basics. After my marathon attempt, I took a few weeks away to recover and then started back with small distances before building back up to half marathon distance.
What is the best bit of advice you wish someone had told you before you started competing?
You are your own competitor! Don't worry about what others are doing.
What are your goals for 2019?
My main goal for 2018 was to complete the Great North Run which I completed. My goals for 2019 are to complete the Manchester Marathon in April and Endure 24 in June which is a 24 hour team race.
Who do you take your inspiration from?
I take inspiration from everyday people. People just wanting to make a difference in their life. Setting themselves goals and smashing them.
What do you like about Sundried and what’s your favourite bit of our kit?
I love the ethical value of Sundried which you don't find with many other companies. The prices compared to other activewear are well worth the money, mostly because you know exactly what has gone into making the product and that you are helping others by purchasing the products from Sundried.
