Meet our 2023 New Balance x SportsShoes TCS London Marathon runners

Introducing our 4 New Balance x SportsShoes marathon runners for 2023. All from different backgrounds, running communities and levels of marathon experience, but what unites them? The TCS London Marathon 2023!

When it comes to running a marathon, we all have our individual reasons; maybe it’s your first 26.2 miles, a lifelong dream, maybe you’re dedicating your training to raising money for a good cause, or maybe, like our 4 New Balance x SportsShoes London Marathon runners, the atmosphere and energy London brings, is not something you want to miss out on. 

With only a few weeks left to go before the big day, we spoke to the fabulous four, Sahayl, Abi, Marvin and Juliette, to learn more about their London Marathon 2023 training journey. 

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1. Why do you run?

Abi
I run because it’s truly my happy place. Not only do I enjoy the physical aspect, but I find that even a short run can help me clear my head and give me a new perspective on things. Running has also helped me meet many like-minded people! 

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Juliette
There are so many reasons I run - for the freedom I feel, the fact it calms my mind and for the rush I get when I finish a tough session. I guess that's the beauty I've found in running: Not only can it take you to some amazing places and introduce you to some wonderful people, but ultimately it shows you that you are capable of far more than you thought was possible. 

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Marvin
I run because it is a journey that I find enjoyable. It provides me with the opportunity to explore new places and take on challenges, while also improving my mental health and well-being. 

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Suhayl
One day I decided that I was going to take up running and commit to it. What was meant to be a 30 minute weekend regime of “downtime” became one of my biggest passions and for the past year I have consistently ran half marathons every weekend, even during Ramadan! When I go for my run, I love the idea of putting my phone away, shutting myself off from the world, listening to podcasts and running as a free soul.

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Pictured: Abi

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2. Do you have any advice for beginner marathon runners?

Suhayl
My advice to beginner marathon runners is that the only limitations you have are those that are in your mind! Believe in yourself and you are halfway there! But passion without purpose is just a dream - find your passion!

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Marvin
Set achievable goals and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. The most important thing is to have fun and cherish the experience of completing a marathon. It’s your race!

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Juliette
I'd say that's my biggest advice for beginner marathon runners - don't neglect the strength work as that's what makes the difference particularly as the distances ramp up. Also trial your nutrition and kit as much as you can - nothing new on race day if you can help it!

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Abi
Don’t dive straight into any longer distance running. Ease yourself into increasing the distances you’re going and try to follow a good marathon training plan. Also, make sure you’ve got good trainers that will be super comfy and practical for all your Mileage.

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Pictured: Marvin

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3. Why are you excited for the London Marathon?

Abi
I’m so excited for the atmosphere. I’ve watched the marathon before and the energy is just electric, even for spectators, so I’m thrilled to see what that’s like as a runner!

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Suhayl
This is my first full marathon. What excites me the most is the rewarding feeling when running through the spectators and being cheered by the crowds. I find this a very humbling moment. I look forward to meeting all the spectators in this year’s London Marathon!

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Juliette
I think for me this marathon will be different to the other ones as this is the first time I've purely trained for a marathon distance. I'm going all in on training, sticking to strength and recovery too and I'm just really excited to see what my body is capable of doing. Plus, it's LONDON! It's going to be unique :)

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Marvin
I am extremely excited about the London Marathon because it is one of the most prestigious marathons in the world. As a runner, I have always dreamt of participating in this event and finally, my dream is coming true on April 23rd. I am eager to join the thousands of other passionate runners on the start line and experience the excitement of running in such a big event. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I cannot wait to make the most of it.

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Pictured: Juliette

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4. Tell us about your running community…

Abi
I honestly feel indebted to the running community as it has been the building block for some of my closest friendships. London can get quite lonely, especially if you move to the city without knowing anyone, and through running I’ve made some lifelong friends, with very similar mindsets and lifestyles as me. I like that it’s a purely supportive environment and no matter your ability or speed, everyone’s rooting for each other to run their best and stay fit and healthy. It’s a truly wholesome environment and I feel lucky to be a part of it.

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Suhayl
I run as part of a wider group called Muslim Runners. The thing I love most about being involved in this running group is that we are more than just a “group”, we are a global community, a family with members who are from all different walks in life and backgrounds. We all share a common interest and that is running. We want to see each other do well in our own running journeys. We are a support network who act as pillars to each other’s running journeys. Not only do we pick each other up, but we want to see each other succeed and surpass our own thoughts and beliefs in what we can do! It’s been absolutely amazing being part of this group meeting so many like minded individuals from across the world!

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Marvin
As the co-founder of District Run Crew, I am proud to be part of a community that shares a love for running. Our crew was established in 2020 and is based in the heart of Birmingham City Centre. Our running collective is made up of individuals with a common goal - to have a flexible and enjoyable running experience. Whether you are a beginner or a professional runner, all are welcome to join us. We run through the city streets, engage in meaningful and hilarious conversations, offer advice to each other, and end our evening with a well-deserved pizza and beverage. It can offer encouragement, support, and camaraderie, making the experience more enjoyable and less isolating on the other hand, it provides the community with a sense of accountability and motivation to stick to a training schedule or reach fitness goals

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Juliette
I run with Black Trail Runners and for me it's been pretty life changing. In the past I've always been conscious that I am often the only black or mixed face at mass event start lines, especially on the trails. I know the feeling of self-consciousness that comes with that, the feeling of alienation, of 'do I really belong here?'. At best, it's uncomfortable, at worst it makes you want to walk away. Now that's absolutely not to say that other runners and running groups aren't welcoming - I have a wonderful community of running friends outside BTR too who are so open to anyone and everyone joining their runs. However, the lack of visible diversity in running groups is a huge barrier to participation and is preventing some potential runners from even hitting the trails at all. BTR are looking to change all that by providing a space where ethnically diverse people can feel like one of many, rather than one of few. 

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Pictured: Suhayl

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Want to find out more? We've been busy collecting all the latest tips & expert advice for marathon training and race days. Our Marathon category lets you experience real in-the-moment stories as we dive deeper into Q&A with athletes, kit reviews, nutritional advice and so much more!