Super Susan’s 33 mile run challenge
Mum of three only took up running last year
An Auchterarder mum-ofthree completed her first 33- mile ultra marathon at the beginning of the month after only taking up running last year.
Susan Ross (38), who works for Perth and Kinross Council as an acting headteacher, began running in 2016 and took part in the Killin event on November 4.
A member of Five Star Active, Susan was inspired to take up the sport to feel better about herself and raise money for a charity close to her heart.
She said: “I was sitting at home on a dark winter night feeling pretty depressed and rubbish about myself. I’d put on weight and generally felt unfit and unhealthy.
“My goal was I wanted to run a 10km for Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS), as my dad had suffered a major stroke a few years ago. He has learned to walk and swallow again but sadly he has not managed to talk since.
“At the finish line we got a medal which I gave to my dad because if anyone deserves a medal, it’s him.
“The first couple of miles I always find hard, but after the initial body shock I get a feeling of peace and freedom.
“My first 5km was really special as it’s when I realised how much I enjoyed the atmosphere of running with other people and the satisfaction of being part of a group.
“My first 10km, which was at the EMF, was my first large event and it was also the charity run for CHSS.
“My first half marathon, in Alloa, was a really fun day out and my first marathon was in Stirling. Need I say more? I ran a marathon!
“The Glen Ogle 33 was an amazing experience and I enjoyed most of it – I think I would even do it again. Being surrounded by likeminded people was really good as they just understand ‘ the madness’. “
Susan went on: “I was supported by the Five Star team during training and prior to the race with my nerves. Fellow team member Ian Murray ran alongside me and gave me moral support throughout the hours of running.
“The hills were especially tough but the section along the viaduct was particularly stunning. The pork pie at mile 22 and flat Coke at mile 29 were definite highlights!
“I’m not a fast runner but I seem to have the determination and endurance to keep going. I believe anyone is capable of running marathons and ultra marathons if they have determination.
“I’d like to run another couple of marathons and maybe one abroad – I’ve been looking at a few European ones. I really enjoyed the Glen Ogle 33... I think it’s possible I might do another one.
“It’s not easy, it sometimes hurts, but the sense of achievement, the ‘warm fuzzies’ and the feeling of peace and freedom make it totally worth it.”