In this episode, we explore Sophie Power's incredible journey from self-professed anti-runner to ultra-runner and advocate for women in racing. Despite her initial reluctance towards running, Sophie discovered a passion for it at 26, leading her to tackle challenges like the Marathon des Sables (MDS) with only nine months of training.
Her journey wasn't without hurdles, especially as a mother of three. Yet, Sophie's dedication to running while pregnant sparked global attention, inspiring women everywhere.
Fuelled by her experiences, she founded SheRACES, aiming to make racing more accessible for women, advocating for pregnancy deferrals, and breaking barriers.
Sophie's resilience shines through, overcoming setbacks like a coma and memory loss. Her story embodies the power of belief and perseverance. Listen to Sophie now to learn more about her remarkable journey.
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Show notes
Who is Sophie
Being an anti-runner
Not being sporty
Discovering running at 26
Being a good hiker and doing kick-boxing
Ready to take on a new challenge
Having 9 months to train
Going from zero to ultra
The planning and preparation for Marathon des Sables (MDS) in 2010
Doing her own research and putting previous experience in planning and logistics to use.
Enjoying running and why she does ultras
Looking to find herself again
Starting to travel and do adventures at the same time
Working long hours and running 20 miles max per week
Running while pregnant and why it was different every time
The photo that went viral
Not wanting to let her 3 year old down
Not wanting other women to be in her position
How She Races came about
Why races should have pregnancy deferrals
Wanting to reduce the barriers for women to encourage more women to race
Surveying over 2,000 women about their barriers and wanting to understand what events can change
Coming up with guidelines for races
Not having any free time
How people can support the work that She Races is doing
Also focusing on cycling and triathlon
Why women and girls deserve better
Running for Team GB and her ultra runner journey
Finding herself on the start line of the European championships in 24hr running
Taking running more seriously after turning 40 and having 3 kids
Training for a 24hr race
The mental side of the challenge
Recovery after races
Nutrition and fuelling herself during races and recovery
Being in a coma for 36 hrs
Dealing with short term memory loss
Going back to work too soon
Running with a prolapse
Mummy MOT
Emma Brockwell - “why did no one tell me”
How to connect with Sophie
Final words of advice
“Believe that you deserve it”
Social Media
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