Heartbeat: Dinah takes on Urban Ultra-marathon London

November 4, 2019

Whilst the rest of us were still in our slippers on the morning of Saturday 5 October, one devoted colleague was already out in her trainers and raring to go, not simply to run a regular marathon, but to run a 55km ultramarathon.

Acting Director of Finance Dinah McLannahan is not averse to a challenge and every step of the 55km she ran stands in testament to her tenacity. Starting at the Woolwich tunnel in East London, Dinah joined some of the fittest runners in England to take on one of the toughest challenges.

Sharing her experience, Dinah said, “When I saw the opportunity for an ultramarathon, I jumped at the chance and began training. Along with raising money for charity, it’s a huge personal achievement.”

Dinah completed an arduous 15 week training programme in preparation for her biggest challenge yet. Almost two years to the day after arriving at the Trust, Dinah joined 280 runners in London and began her epic endeavour. Dinah ran the distance in an impressive 8 hours 13 minutes and raised over £1,200 in sponsorship!

Having travelled through nine boroughs, Dinah concluded in Richmond. Recalling her ultramarathon she said, “The last 12 miles were hard, but the first 24 were surprisingly ok! It was one of the best things I have ever done. There were some brilliant views and the course was never boring. I’m so proud and happy to have raised such a good amount for the charity. I skipped across the finish line, I was so delighted to finish. Only three bruised toenails too, so I’m glad it’s not summertime and I can cover them up!”