Member Spotlight: Nicola F
Welcome to the fourth edition of our Member Spotlight!
This month, we’re chatting with Nicola - a self-confessed "flail-dasher" who went from walking marathons to smashing a sub-4-hour marathon in Barcelona. From military wives' running groups in Rhode Island to "dinner conversations" with total strangers, Nicola’s journey is one of laughter, and a lot of Freddos.
The Rapid Fire 5
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How long have you been an Alton Runner? Since early 2022.
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Favourite race or route? Cross-country league events, with Chawton being my top pick. A special nod also goes to the scenic beauty of Man vs Coast (St Michael's Mount to Land’s End).
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Road or Trail? For racing, it’s the road, but trails for pure fun!
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Ultimate post-run snack? My snack game is elite: ice-cold Coke, Freddos (the entire family pack!), and ready salted crisps. It’s a celebration worthy of any distance.
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Running in one word? "Flail-dashing." It might technically be two words, but if you’ve seen me move, you’ll know why!
The Deep Dive
What first got you into running? I started by walking a marathon and a 100km event before discovering a love for running in Rhode Island, USA. A "kick" from my husband and a group of military wives propelled me into it. I’m actually celebrating my 10th "running-versary" later this year!
I was never sporty at school - coordination just wasn't my thing - and as a nurse, I used to joke that running would only panic the patients. No one wants to see their nurse sprinting down the ward!
What is your favourite thing about being a member of Alton Runners? Connection and encouragement. (Can I have two?!)
If someone was "on the fence" about joining, what would you tell them? There’s a place for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Running clubs really are all about inclusivity and friendship.
Tell us about a running moment or achievement you’re particularly proud of. Finishing the Barcelona Marathon in 2025 in under 4 hours. It was a way of proving and celebrating a return to health, and a reminder that 50 is the new 30!
Beyond the Finish Line
The "Dinner Guest" Incident
Those who know me know I chatter.. a lot. During the Alton Downland Challenge, I was happily running along with my husband, chatting away about what we should have for dinner. After a while, I turned to say something else and realised I wasn't talking to my husband at all! I’d accidentally left him behind and was having a full-on dinner consultation with a random bloke. Safe to say, I always wear my glasses when I run now!