If you would like to sponsor Sam, you can support Sam here.
Can you introduce yourself?
I’m Sam Thurston, 42. I live in Swansea, South Wales with my partner and my dog, Mel. I enjoy being outdoors, taking coffee too seriously, bikepacking, dad jokes and running (obviously).
What’s you background with running?
I started running in 2023. I was first attracted by its simplicity, lack of kit in comparison to other activities I enjoy and its flexibility – you can run almost anywhere.
I continued after I found I enjoyed it! I liked the physical and mental challenge, running with others in an event, with my dog Mel or on my own in the woods.
This led me to signing up for the Swansea half marathon in 2023 which I (mostly) enjoyed. I entered a few other events and enjoyed each one in the different way, which led me to join my partner and her brother running and completing the Chester Marathon in 2024.
I really enjoyed the training through the autumn and it helped me realise how amazing the human body is!
What do you like most about running?
I enjoy the mental and physical challenge. Pushing my body to see what it can achieve. I always feel better after I’ve been for a run.
I enjoy being outside and running through beautiful spaces (when I can). It’s given me new perspective of Swansea literally and metaphorically.
What do you not like about running?
I often run on my own as I don’t know anyone who runs the same pace as me. So training in the dark British winter is sometimes a challenge, especially the shorter daylight hours and named storms!
What motivated you to take up this challenge?
From a personal perspective I’m motivated by the huge opportunity to take part in a fantastic event that raises so much funding for charities. It will be a unique opportunity to see London from a completely different perspective and to raise important funding for a cause that’s important to me.
Tell us what your link to the Field Studies Council is
I’m Sustainability Manager at Field Studies Council. I’ve worked for Field Studies Council for the most part of 10 years. Firstly, in our education centres as a tutor, then at our Head Office on education projects, including Nature Friendly Schools.
When people sponsor you, where will the money be going?
Donations will go towards providing financial support for young people to take part in a Field Studies Council experience through Grants for Schools, Young Darwin Scholarship or other similar initiatives. These initiatives support children and young people to have experiences with Field Studies Council that they might not otherwise be able to enjoy, for example reducing the cost for an overnight stay one of our locations.
Tell us why this cause is important to you?
Some of the most memorable experiences I’ve had delivering learning outside the classroom are when groups of children and young people are able to take part, despite financial barriers.
I believe that all children and young people should have access to first hand experiences that improve their understanding of the spaces and places around them, whether their local park, a nature reserve or their school grounds.
What’s your current training schedule for the London Marathon?
I plan three runs per week. One longer run (normally at the weekend) and two shorter runs, normally one faster and one slower. I try to integrate 2-3 hours of yoga each week to help with strength and recovery.
Has anything surprised you about the training process?
It’s easy to forget the amount of work required to prepare my body for the marathon. It’s been especially difficult the last few weeks as I’ve been ill and running very little, so hopefully I’ll be ready to get back into it soon!
How are you preparing mentally? Any specific training there?
To be honest nothing specific, the planning for race-day and training seems to help me manage any anxiety about the event. Focussing on breathing when running helps me to relax.
Any special food or meal plans?
I’ve trained myself through repetition to run with an (almost!) full stomach without getting a stitch. This really helps with the long runs, as it keeps me fuelled up.
I’d recommend anything with nut butter, oats and your classic, bananas.
Are you plagued by any injuries?
I have experienced problems with my right knee, but rest and yoga has helped recover and strengthen it. I’m hoping it won’t reappear!
Where do you find advice and support
My partner and dog Mel are the best! My friends have also helped, watching my friends run a marathon before I did my first one helped too. I even received energy gels for Christmas!
Any practical tips
Get creative and practice different approaches to what you’ll experience during the marathon. Try different foods, eating before or after (or during!) running. Experiment with different energy gels and nutrient dense foods. Find your perfect running shoes by having the patience to try lots of different pairs.
Treat yourself to a nice pair of running socks but always test them before the big day!
What’s your strategy on the big day
Put myself in the best mental place to enjoy it!
I’m going to set 3-4 targets for myself. The most important one is to enjoy it! I also have some timing goals which I’ll reassess as I get closer to the day.
And once you’re done how will you celebrate?
Rest, massage and delicious food!
I need to rest as I have a May Day Bank Holiday 10k the Monday afterwards!
If you could give a single piece of advice to new runners, what would it be?
Set simple targets, for example. If you’re experiencing low motivation to get out commit to running for 10 minutes. If after 10 minutes you don’t want to keep running, stop and go home. I’ve found after 10 minutes I always want to keep going, regardless of how I felt before I started!
A huge thank you to Sam for taking up the momentous challenge of running the London Marathon on behalf of Field Studies Council.
We are all behind you, cheering you on!
If you would like to sponsor Sam, you can find the link to do so here.