This month's spothlight is on a runner who has represented the club in all manner of races, broken her wrist, got lost and still smiled throughout! The legendary Michelle Boshier!

How did you first get into running and why?

I was watching the great north run on the television and wished that I could do that race; I decided to lose some weight then start running. I lost the weight and ran up and down my street, usually for about 5 mins, then each day I could feel myself getting better and better.

I kept going because a few people didn’t believe I would be able to finish a race and I wanted to prove them wrong and I did and I did the great North run.

Tell us about some races you’ve done in the past.

I’ve done a few races including the Darlington 10k which was my first race and I remember wearing the t-shirt for days as I was so proud! I do cross-country, fell races, road races basically I’ll do anything.

How much training do you typically do?

I try to get to the club sessions twice a week then run midweek and a longer run at the weekends.

Be honest do you enjoy training?

I do enjoy training especially when I’m training with friends and it’s raining or snowing,

What’s your current running aim?

I’m hoping to do the Para 10 with the backpack on under the 1.50 and also hoping to complete the hard moor 60 but it depends how my wrist is

My favourite race/distance/terrain.

I love running off road, probably 10 miles or over as I’m more of a plodder than speedy.

Which race performance are you most proud of?

I felt really happy and proud when I finished the Para 10 with my backpack on it was the hardest race but I loved every minute, the Lyke Wake Run is a close second as I would never have thought I could finish a 42 mile run.

Which race would you have to be forced to do?

It would have to be the croft circuit 10k, only because of the 3 laps.

What’s your idea of running heaven?

A run on a cold snowy day

Idea of running hell?

Any run in the heat

Any advice to newcomers?

Don’t be put off doing races by thinking you’re not fast enough, any race that you finish in any time is such an achievement.

What do you think is the best route into races for newcomers?

Having a chat with club members about difference races and maybe going along to a few races to see what they are all about. And that if you take part in an event it doesn’t matter how fast or slow you are. It’s about the taking part and doing your best.

What’s your favourite type of race?

I like fell races... when I don’t get lost and unusual races like the thunder run.

Best way to relax/reward after a race?

When I’m running in a race I usually think of a nice cold can of diet coke when I’ve finished.

You’ve challenged yourself to do many different events how do you manage to keep going?

I keep going because my son is autistic and running is such a big part of my life, it keeps me happy and clears my head when I get stressed! I look forward to my different races and feel great when I complete an event.

What is the best part of the club?

I’m going to have to say the people, I have made really good friends at the club and I’m so glad I joined.

Apple, water, banana or Mars Bar in your goodie bag?

Got to be the Mars Bar... I love chocolate!!!