You can do it – Hanna Tarver

You glance out the window and instantly turn away as the torrential rain stings your face. Running in the rain isn’t particularly fun, running in the dark or cold isn’t either but you’ve come so far and a little voice in the back of your head whispers- you can do it.

You run because you can, it’s an adventure; you start with a window of opportunity and finish with an extraordinary sense of achievement. You’ve pushed through pain and suffering, up hills, through mud, you’ve tested your limits and emerge stronger. You are an inspiration.

If you can do it, so can I. If I can do it, so can you. Impossible is nothing.

‘Never set limits, go after your dreams, don’t be afraid to push the boundaries. And laugh a lot – it’s good for you!’ Paula Radcliffe is one of my biggest inspirations; she has achieved what no other woman has, by holding the marathon world record. She has pushed through immense pain, ran thousands of miles but most of all loves what she does.

However I am also inspired by every runner I see. I admire their effort and determination and instantly wish I was out there running with them.  Jealousy grips you when you want to run, but guilt crushes you when you haven’t.

The determination and strength from 18 year old Kayla Montgomery captured me and provides huge inspiration.  She became one of the fastest high school runners in America despite suffering from multiple sclerosis. She has legs so she uses them- despite her condition blocking nerve signals meaning they become numb. Loss of control must be terrifying however she pushes through and competes relying on her coach to catch her, nothing gets in her way.

Why do you run?

A question we have all heard a million times before which has an infinite number of answers. A question asked by someone who is inspired by you.

We can do it.