Mark Cunningham never fancied himself a runner—in fact, he actively dodged it for years. But after reluctantly agreeing to run the shortest leg of a marathon relay, something changed. A few years later, he’s run two full marathons, hit his sub-4 goal, and become a steady presence in the CRC weekend long runs as well as being “Coach Mark” for our recent Couch to 5K Graduates. His story is honest, relatable, and a reminder that progress is often quiet… until you’re crossing the finish line.
How long have you been running? How long with CRC?
Approximately 3 years
What made you start running?
Now that’s a good question. I always hated running and refused to partake in any of the running events via work, marathon relay etc. It wasn’t until after years of asking that I finally decided to do the shortest leg. I hated it!! However, it was the kick start I needed and over the following few years I started to get more into running, slowly!!
What motivated you to take that first step into running? What was the biggest challenge you faced, did you have any low points, and how did you overcome any challenges you faced?
The biggest challenge was to get out through the front door. After that, it was my breathing, the stitch I got every time, having to start/stop, and not to mention sore joints & muscles!!
The low points were fighting the voices in my head asking me why was I doing this to myself. This, along with running on my own, were the biggest challenges I had. When I look back now, these were all overcome by joining the running club. To run with others is half the battle. From the date I joined, that was the time that I was able to kick forward on all aspects of my running journey.
Have you noticed any improvements in your fitness, mental health, or overall well-being?
100% my fitness levels have improved greatly and at present I’m probably fitter than I have ever been since I was in my teenage years. Getting out for a run in the fresh air is key to getting my head cleared and all the benefits that come with that.
What has been the most rewarding moment of your running journey so far? Have you made new friendships or connections through running?
The most rewarding has to be the improvement overall. At first I was weary of doing 5km and could never see myself doubling that to 10km and then from that to longer distances.
I have to say none of that would have been possible without the friends I’ve made since joining the club. I defo wasn’t getting there on my own. I’ll not confess to know everyone in the club but those that I do know are so friendly and encouraging. Many will be friends for life.
What is your proudest running achievement so far?
My proudest running achievement has to be crossing the line at the Belfast Marathon last May ‘24. I went from Mr. I’ll never ever do a Marathon to actually doing one and to top it off I achieved my goal of sub 4hrs. I’ll never live down the Mr. I’ll never do a Marathon but I’m quite happy about that as it means I now have 👍.
Then to go on and do a 2nd in the same year in Amsterdam was the icing on the cake. That one was a few minutes slower but the course did run 700m’s longer, well that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it 😉