Tasha is our Community Advisor and supports community-led initiatives, campaigns and events for Aspire and clients. She is the founder of Black Girls Do Run UK and is a qualified run leader. She is passionate about moving and community and loves nothing more than to witness moments when people connect, learn and grow.
Read on to find out about her driving force behind starting Black Girls Do Run, her tips to stay motivated and her running goals for 2023..
When did you start running and why?
I started running in 1998 on the treadmill and in 1999 I thought I would try running outside. I could not believe how hard It was but I loved It. The changing scenery, the weather, I was hooked. I entered and ran my first race in July of the same year and loved having an end goal to work towards and have not looked back since.
What was the driving force behind starting Black Girls Do Run?
Black Girls Do Run UK was started in my 20th year of running. Taking part in races and not seeing many black women at the start line of races was playing on my mind more and more and I wanted to make a difference.
Why do you think there’s been such growth in running communities over the last few years?
Running was one of the few sports that could carry on during the lockdown when all the gyms and studios shut their doors. As a result of more communities popping up, there’s better representation of different kinds of runners at grassroots level and the camaraderie within community groups.
What do you think are the biggest barriers in getting more people into running?
The biggest barriers are social, and cultural practices, beliefs, traditions and fear of failure.
What’s your favourite distance and running event?
My favourite distance is half marathon, and my favourite runningevent changes every year. For 2022, my favourite event was the TCS London Marathon and I cannot wait to line up at the start line again in 2023. My favourite half marathon is the London Landmarks Half Marathon – the entertainment all around the course is amazing!
What do you do when your motivation to run is low?
When motivation runs low, I tap into discipline, remind myself that consistency is my superpower, I remember my why, which is usually my upcoming races and that once I am out on a run I never regret it.
How do you typically start and end your day?
I start with a big mug of hot water and lemon and end excited to climb into bed thinking of what I am grateful for.
What’s the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?
Running advice: Run your own race at your own pace.
Life advice: Happiness is a choice and everything else is a matter of perspective.
What are your goals for the year ahead?
2022 was a big year for me where I ran the most races ever! There are fewer races for 2023, but a couple of big ones and a first. I’m running my first ultra-distance, race to the stones 50k, as well as London Marathon in April and a few others.
