Meet the Club Member: Elvira
Meet Elvira who competed at the London Marathon since we last caught up with her.
You are...
Elvira Gonzalo, member since August 2014
What brought you to the club
A former colleague, current friend and Serpie member used to show me pictures of her cross country achievements, which led me to tell her over and over again that she was crazy. After joining a charitable 5k run through work she invited me to run with the club. I then joined and started to enjoy the Wednesday social run. A few years later, and after running a couple of XC races last season, I’m now the one showing people the muddy pictures...
When you aren't running, you are...
Chilling. When I get the chance I love travelling (especially to sunny places).
The most challenging thing you have ever done
Running Brighton last year, my first ever marathon, was pretty tough (it felt like the hottest day in the past 30 years). After completing Brighton, I decided to register to run Athens (250m elevation). Not too bad considering I don’t think of myself as a runner.
Your favourite book
I love the film Race. It follows the journey of the legendary Jesse Owens, and the stories behind his coach and family, and is directed by Stephen Hopkins – it’s a great film.
If you could be an animal, you would want to be...
A dolphin! Dolphins have many qualities: they are very social and help with different animal-assisted therapies. Also, they are very clever.
What you like best about the club
The way it’s organised. It’s amazing when you think that it’s a club run by volunteers. There’s a great structure with the yearly trips, championships and weekly coached and uncoached sessions. The fact that everyone is welcome regardless of their ability is important as well.
Most unusual race you have ever done
The Hampton Court Half in March was an unusual one as part of the course was covered by snow. The last mile or two were on grass that was muddy and slippery... so much fun!
Your top training tip
Consistency is key – make the effort to go out rain or shine.
Your next big goal
Berlin Marathon in September
Something you have never told anyone else or that would surprise others
I walked an entire 5k race because my friends didn’t feel like running.
If you would like to be featured in our 'Meet the Club Member' series, please email me.
Eda Korkmaz
communications@serpentine.org.uk
Submitted: 9 July 2018