After the success of this year’s marathon fundraiser, Rita and Yara will be following in Ben and Nathan’s footsteps and running London Marathon 2027 to raise money for the club. This is an incredible undertaking that demands time, physical fitness, and mental resilience, and we’re excited to support them every step of the way. We spoke to Rita and Yara about their training plans and how we can get involved from the sidelines.
Tell us about your running experience so far
Rita: Running has been a key part of my training for several years, although latterly it’s been limited to 5km stints a couple of times a week. While competing is not really my thing, I enjoy the training, feeling fit and pushing myself to extend the limits of my capability. I first ran the London Marathon in 2005. Although I’m older, I am now much fitter than I was then, so I am looking forward to seeing how I do 21 years on!
Yara: I have always been an active person, and I like to try different sports! Running is the most straightforward and you can do it anywhere. I’ve been running for many years but nothing as challenging as this.
Why did you decide to run for Poplar?
Rita: I’ve been a member of the club for more than 10 years and it has become a significant part of my life. Running the marathon gives me a chance to give something back. On a personal note, the marathon will give me a challenge to push my limits in a year in which I will be celebrating a significant birthday. I’m aiming to prove to myself that age is a number not a barrier!
Yara: I wanted the opportunity to challenge myself as a runner but also to represent the club and show my appreciation and gratitude for being part of this community.
What’s your training strategy?
Rita: I am a believer that practice makes perfect. I like routine and order. A key point for me is to avoid injury and keep well! Luckily, rowing means that I already have things in place to help me maintain flexibility and build strength and fitness. I’m spending autumn building stamina and distance so I can comfortably run 10-12 km. After Christmas I’ll increase the mileage. I may even try running the marathon route before race day, so I remind myself what to expect.
Yara: I’ll be trying to balance my normal rowing training with weekly miles and increase that as I get closer to the date of the marathon. As I do more runs, I’ll have a better idea of times to expect and work around. I plan to train with good, upbeat workout music in my ears and dulce de leche on toast fuelling me!
What are you most looking forward to, and what do you think will be the hardest bit?
Rita: Finishing! From my memory of last time, going west on the highway with 5.2 miles to go was challenging. I will have to keep my eyes forward and resist the desire to go home! The support from the crowd is amazing, especially if it is a rain free day. All these people giving up their time to cheer the runners is a huge motivator and such fun.
Yara: Well, I will definitely be looking forward to fun and good vibes! I want to make the most of the day and enjoy every second. The hardest bit will be whatever conditions we get on the day, like if Mother Nature sends rain!
How can club members support you in the lead up?
Rita: It would be great if people could support the upcoming fundraising events! Please put the dates in your diary for fun, food and competition! Having strong support and encouragement on Marathon Day is indispensable, so please save the date, come along, and shout loud.
Yara: Everybody has been very supportive since day one. We welcome all ideas for fundraising and any amount that you can donate will be amazing. In the end, the goal is the same. Rita and I are just the legs for the campaign! Raise the roof!
Thank you to Rita and Yara for their efforts to generate funds for the club. Any donation, no matter how small, is gratefully received, so head to the JustGiving page here if you can contribute.
We hope to welcome club and community members at the following fundraiser events:
- Thursday 19 November from 18:00 Erg Challenge!
- Sunday 14 February from 12:30 Retro Games!
- Sunday 14 March from 12:30 Quiz and prize-giving!
Tickets are £10 per event: buy them here!
Club members enjoy a fundraising cake and coffee morning in the bar after training!
Make sure you are following the club Instagram to keep up with fundraising progress, and subscribe to our monthly newsletters here!