Joe Collett - Athlete Ambassador
Have you always been into sport?
Definitely not! In fact, other than a short spell playing rugby at school, I didn't really do well at any sport and preferred playing music instead!
How did you first get into running?
A colleague at my old workplace had to drop out of a 10 km run and offered the place to me. I had no idea how far 10 km even was and I remember reading the advice in the race pack the night before and panicking when I read about how much training I should have done at that point! The race went ok though (I survived) and got hooked!
If you are interested in getting into running, Sundried's kit is suitable for beginners as well as seasoned athletes. We have both men's and women's options available.
What has been your favourite race to date and why?
So many great races but one that sticks out was Valencia 10 km. There was a group of us that went to do this and the marathon. The whole event was so well organised and the city was beautiful to run around plus, I got to meet some lovely people!
What is your proudest achievement?
At this point it would be the Manchester virtual marathon. I got up one morning and decided to give it a go (there was a certain amount of days that you had to complete it) and I finished in 5 hours and 21 minutes. I was so pleased to complete the distance with only a podcast and a bad wasp sting for a distraction!
Have you ever had any racing disasters?
Trimpell 20 miler. I started too fast and dropped one of my two gels. At mile 16 I really needed it and slowly but surely I completely hit the wall where my legs were absolutely exhausted and in so much pain. I was out on the course for so long that my partner and her friend ran back out to find me and escort me to the finish line!
How do you overcome setbacks?
I try not to dwell on bad sessions or races. At the end of the day these things happen and it's much better to look forward than back.
What advice do you wish you'd been given when you first started out?
Run your easy runs easy. Be consistent with your training and don't worry about what other people are doing. Concentrate on your own goals as that's all that matters.
What are your goals?
First and foremost, to complete a "real" marathon so I can experience the atmosphere. Then maybe try an ultra - although that depends on how the marathon goes!
Who inspires you?
Every other runner inspires me. Whether it's someone doing couch to 5k or someone training for their next ultra - if someone is pushing and challenging themselves then it makes me want to do the same.
Why work with Sundried?
Being ethical is important to me and that's why I'm a fan of Sundried. The fact that all of their gear is made from recycled coffee grounds or plastic is amazing. Plus it's vegan which is definitely important to me as well!
To hear more from our ambassadors and get free tips on workout plans and more, connect with the Sundried Personal Trainers on our app.
