Swindon Lives: Pete Dewhirst - Half Marathon Special

This Half Marathon Swindon Lives special focuses on one of our photographers, and fitness fanatic, Pete Dewhirst.

How many times have you run the Swindon Half Marathon?

5 times I think it is and enjoyed every one of them.

What’s your Swindon Half PB and what time are you going for this year?

1.29 is the fastest and 1.34 my slowest however I am very proud of the fact that in my younger days I managed a 1.15.

As for this year, well, based on injuries and hospital visits I hope for around 1.50 but so long as I enjoy it I don't really mind.

Which Olympic athlete has inspired you the most?

At my age I have seen quite a few Olympics but I have to say Bradley Wiggins is just something else.

Are there any other sporting hobbies you enjoy in your spare time?

Yep, cycling, triathlons(Ironman) and duathlons.

Are you running for a charity? If so which one and why?

Not as yet, raised quite a bit for Cancer Research over the years, TeamTrueSpirit and Help For Heroes.

What advice would you give to other people training for a half marathon?

Two things really. Consistency is the key, try to run as much and as often as you can to get it firmly into your muscle memory and secondly believe in yourself and visualize crossing the finish line in the time you have set yourself.

How many days a week do you train?

Seven.

Do you run with any local running/fitness clubs?

Just started running with Shin Splints a week or so ago.

Where’s your favorite place to run in and around Swindon?

From Coate Water up through Chiseldon and then back along the cycle route back to Coate or the 1/2M course itself, it is a challenging but good route.

How will you celebrate completing the Swindon Half Marathon?

A good hot brew.