Newcastle teacher Sam is running the Great North Run for SHINE
"I'm running for SHINE because I know the charity makes a difference for those children who need it in order to give them positive experiences and support their learning"
Sam Murphy, a primary teacher from Newcastle upon Tyne, is taking on this year’s Great North Run in support of SHINE.
Having spent over two decades in education, Sam says she sees “first-hand how situations beyond a child’s control can negatively impact their education”, which is why she chose to raise money for SHINE.
We caught up with Sam during a break in teaching and training to find out a little more about her and her challenge.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’ve been a teacher for over 20 years specialising mainly in Early Years and Key Stage 1. I’m also a proud mum of two children aged 8 and 6.
Why did you decide to take on the Great North Run and how are you feeling about it?
I’m getting older and so I’m running out of time! I’ve lived in the North East most of my life so I knew I wanted to attempt it, even if it was just one time!
I was initially feeling very nervous but managed 11 miles in training so I’m feeling much more positive and I’m looking forward to the amazing atmosphere.
Will you be running with anyone else, and/or will you have anyone supporting you along the route?
I’m running with my sister and some other friends who I have trained with.
I’ve got other friends dotted along the sidelines to cheer me on. I hope I manage to catch a glimpse of them!!
What, if any, is your past running experience and how have you been preparing for the Great North Run?
I started running well over 10 years ago. I did the Couch to 5k training programme and did the Race for Life. I didn’t run a huge amount when the kids were younger but got back into it and built up my stamina and the miles from there.
I’ve been training for the Great North Run since about January and started slow. As the months passed, I gradually worked up to 2-3 runs a week. It was difficult having to juggle work and childcare. However, I was able to run for longer periods and over greater distances and also be able to carry on a conversation whilst doing so (which I never thought I’d be able to manage!)
Why did you choose to raise money for SHINE?
Having worked in education since 2002, I’ve seen first-hand the barriers to learning that can occur. I also know how the education system is underfunded to provide for children who need it the most. I’m running for SHINE because I know the charity makes a difference for those children who need it in order to give them positive experiences and support their learning.
Do you have any aims or targets in mind?
My only goal is to finish it, whether I run, jog, walk or crawl over the finish line!
From all of us at SHINE: good luck, Sam! We’ll be cheering you on this Sunday, 7 September.