Sam Matthews
Brathay 10in10 Athlete
I’m Sam. A 36-year-old chap from Stoke-on-Trent. I’ve run the Brathay Marathon five times. I’ve wanted to tackle the “Ten in Ten” for the past three years. However, up until this year, I’ve not been brave enough to commit! I’ve realised that the Ten in Ten will always be in my mind so I need to give it a go.
My motivation comes from the wonderful and inspiring people that support and partake in my favourite marathon. Every time I’ve participated in the Brathay Marathon, I’ve felt the love and warmth of the people of the Lake District. The pure physical and mental challenge of running 10 marathons in 10 days is also motivating.
I’m inspired by a multitude of people including all previous 10 in 10 runners, Elise Downing, Team MND, Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield amongst many others. I’m keen to give further purpose and meaning to my life and this will be a big part of it. I’m at a crossroads currently in my work life. I’m seeking a career outside of Nursing. Having this challenge will provide a new focus and help to re-adjust the work-life balance! I’ve not been running long.
My first Marathon was on 26 April 2015 in Blackpool. I cannot say I’m a wholly committed or obsessional runner. I run when I want! I enjoy going to my local Shapes gym in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent participating in swimming and group exercise classes. This challenge is going to be beyond anything I’ve ever tried. I cannot recall having run consecutively for 10 days never mind 10 Brathay marathons in 10 days! I will need to call on all the support I can harness including Brathay staff and my fellow 10 in 10 runners. I’m desperate to raise as much money as possible for the Brathay Trust. There are so many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who are unable to fulfil their potential due to no fault of their own. I have seen the effect of poverty and disadvantage in Stoke-on-Trent and the transformative impact that charities like the Brathay Trust can have on people’s lives. The work that the Brathay Trust do for individuals and communities is immeasurable and helps individuals fulfil their potential whilst creating stronger community networks. Brathay put a strong emphasis on physical and mental health which is absolutely critical in my view. Put simply, children and young people are the future so we need to focus on supporting them as much as possible.
Experience
- 2023: London Marathon, ASICS Windermere Marathon, Ambleside 50K,
- 2022: Loch Ness Marathon
- 2021: ASICS Windermere Marathon
- 2019: Ladybower Trail Marathon, ASICS Windermere Marathon, Solway Coast Marathon, London Marathon
- 2018: Stoke on Trent Marathon, Hull Marathon, Chester Marathon
- 2015: Blackpool Marathon