Running For A Reason: Brighton Marathon 2026 Podcast With Olivia Harman

In the latest episode of the Don't Forget Your Gels podcast, Tim Rogers sits down with Olivia Harman, a first-time marathon runner who is taking on the Brighton Marathon to raise funds for Scoliosis Support and Research. Olivia's inspiring journey from a diagnosis of scoliosis to training for a marathon is not only heartwarming but also a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

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• The Motivation Behind the Marathon

Olivia's journey began when her husband suggested she consider running a marathon. Initially resistant, she realized that the only reason she would undertake such a challenge would be to support Scoliosis Support and Research. This charity holds a special place in her heart, as she has lived with scoliosis for many years. After learning about charity spots available for various marathons, Olivia chose the Brighton Marathon, which is conveniently located just 20 minutes from her home.

• A Personal Battle with Scoliosis

Olivia's experience with scoliosis is deeply personal. Diagnosed at a young age, she faced years of uncertainty and pain before seeking medical advice. It was during a massage that she learned about her curved spine, leading to further investigations. Despite the challenges, including a potential surgery that was ultimately deemed too risky, Olivia found solace in running. "It was painful at the start," she shares, "but I loved it. It changes your mindset and makes you really strong."

• The Importance of Training

With the marathon just five months away, Olivia understands the significance of a solid training plan. She emphasises that having a goal like this helps keep her motivation high, especially during the colder months when many runners might hesitate to head out. Olivia's training involves a combination of long runs and maintaining her half marathon distance, ensuring she is well-prepared for the marathon. She engages her husband and their dog in her training sessions, making it a family affair.

• The Benefits of a Running Club

As part of her training, Olivia joined the Seaford Striders, a local running club that provides a sense of community and support. She highlights the social aspect of running with others, stating, "It's really friendly, and everyone just encourages each other." Olivia appreciates the flexibility of joining different pace groups, allowing her to push herself or take it easy based on her needs. The camaraderie extends beyond training runs, with club members organizing social events like pasta parties to fuel their marathon training.

• Facing the Nerves

With the marathon approaching, Olivia admits to feeling nervous about lining up at the start line. However, she views these nerves as a sign of pushing herself out of her comfort zone. Olivia uses music to help calm her pre-race jitters, finding that it allows her to zone out and focus on the task ahead.

• Summary

Olivia's journey to the Brighton Marathon is a powerful reminder of resilience and the impact of community support. She is not only training for a significant personal achievement but also raising awareness and funds for a cause that has profoundly affected her life. Key takeaways from her story include the importance of setting goals, the transformative power of running, and the value of community in overcoming challenges.

Have a listen here

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