New Viceroy Jen Isaac tells us a little about herself: ‘Growing up I hated running, all types, short distance, long distance and anything in between….. I wasn’t particularly built for it and well, it’s hard!  I used to compete in swimming a lot as a youngster and also (rather averagely) in Tetrathlon & Modern Pentathlon and would dread the running element more than all of the others combined, I was no gazelle.

As I got older, as jobs got more demanding, as time out became more precious I found myself starting to slip on my running shoes more frequently and just head out the door.  It required no membership fee, no booking of classes and no particularly fancy or expensive equipment.  It was also a wonderful time to clear my head and focus on the important stuff.

So when I was asked if I’d like to run in the Paris Marathon last year on behalf of The Prince’s Trust, I gave a slight chuckle and shake of my head….. ‘a marathon?  26 miles? Er, you know I’d love to , but er’…… and before I had time to formulate a proper excuse, the form was in front of me, I was signed up, I was in.   What had I done!?  

But I did it, and it was hard – but I loved it.  I went on to run a further 2 official marathons last year qualifying for my first Ultra Marathon; Comrades (90km) in South Africa, which I ran in June 2014, again for the Prince’s Trust – I think I’m still recovering.   Having found that I’m stubborn enough and just about coordinated enough to run and swim in a straight line for a decent enough distance, my ultimate goal is to get the hang of the cycling element and give an Ironman a fair crack…. we can all have dreams right!?

I’m really looking forward to training with the club and very much appreciate the warm welcome I’ve received already – and the loan of a bike light, thanks Theo I haven’t forgotten!’

Welcome to Viceroys Jen.