This year, 15 remarkable people are running the London Marathon for Oasis. In this series, we’re sharing short interviews with some of them about why they’ve chosen to take on the challenge in support of our work.
Tell us a little about yourself
My name is Phat To and I’m an Account Director for a technology company called CDW. I’m based up north in Worsley near Manchester. When I’m not running I’m usually training and coaching at my local gym or doing other functional fitness competitions.
Why are you running the London Marathon for Oasis?
I’m running for Oasis because their work supporting women, children and families feels genuinely life-changing and worth every long run, blister and early alarm. If I’m going to put myself through 26.2 miles, I want it to mean something bigger than just a medal.
What’s your pre‑marathon breakfast?
My morning coffee and some carbs will be my go to – so bagel and bananas are my best friend with plenty of water, electrolytes and gels too during the race. All whilst having a bangin’ playlist to listen to to get myself pumped.
What’s your strangest running habit, superstition or training hack?
I’m a creature of habit so I’ve literally run the same path consistently every time without fail. I know that if I can do it slightly quicker each time then I’ve improved overall!
What’s the hardest part of marathon training for you?
The long runs when motivation disappears halfway through and it’s just me, my thoughts, and the very loud question why am I doing this again? Also up north it’s very cold and rainy so that doesn’t help at all.
What keeps you going on the days you really don’t want to run?
Remembering why I signed up, the people backing me, and the fact that future-me will always be glad I went even if present-me is sulking while putting trainers on. And of course, it’s London Marathon. The one that we all need to do especially if it’s our first one!
What’s one thing you wish supporters knew about marathon training?
It’s not just the race day but it’s months of early mornings, tired legs, and showing up even when it’s inconvenient. Every bit of support really does carry you through those unseen miles.
What’s on your running playlist?
Well before my marathon training I had a running playlist which consisted of songs from Linkin Park, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Macklemore, Rage against the Machines, Limp Biscuit, Nirvana, Drowning Pool, White Stripes and a few others of similar genre. Recently I’ve started listening to more House/Dance music and Rap/Rnb. I would imagine with a marathon I would be cycling through all genres throughout the run!
