The Why !
Why I am Doing This?
Running has become one of the most important parts of my life.
It keeps me healthy, gives me time to think, connects me with nature, and, perhaps most importantly, brings me into contact with incredible people.
Over the years I have come to realise that almost everyone is carrying something. Sometimes it is a difficult run where your legs are tired, your energy is low, and you need to work out whether the answer is better pacing, better training, or simply taking on some food and water. Sometimes it is much bigger than that.
Life transitions, changes in relationships, grief, uncertainty, and the many challenges that come with being human.
I am approaching the end of a career that I have genuinely loved. At the same time, I feel excited and ready for a new chapter. That transition is both inspiring and unsettling. It means stepping away from something familiar and trusted and moving towards something that is still taking shape.
One of the phrases that has guided me for years is "Trust the Process" — a reminder I liked so much that I had it tattooed on my forearm, slightly larger than originally intended.
To me, those words mean that progress does not always happen in a straight line. Whether in running or in life, there are setbacks, doubts, and moments when the finish feels a long way off. But if we stay patient, keep learning, and continue putting one foot in front of the other, we usually move closer to where we want to be.
The Wainwright Coast to Coast feels like the perfect expression of that idea.
Crossing England from one sea to another will be a demanding physical challenge, but the real purpose is to create meaningful conversations.
Through One Question Across England, I want to ask people what helps them keep going when life feels tough, whether the challenge they are facing is relatively small or truly life-changing.
I am endlessly fascinated by other people's stories.
How they cope. How they adapt. What keeps them moving. What they have learned.
My hope is that this project becomes more than a running challenge.
I hope it becomes a collection of honest answers, practical wisdom, and shared experience that reminds us we are often stronger, and less alone, than we realise.
If someone reads these stories and finds an idea, a perspective, or a little extra courage to take their next step, then this journey will have been worthwhile.
Be Part of the Journey
This isn’t something to just follow — it’s something to be part of.
If this project resonates with you, you’re invited to get involved.
Whether that’s joining a training run, running a section of the route, or simply sharing your own experience — it all matters.
I’ll be organising relaxed, inclusive runs in the lead-up, and there will be opportunities to be part of the journey across England itself.
You can also share your answer to the question:
“When things have been really tough in your life, how did you find a way forward?”
Your story might help someone else more than you realise.