December Runner of the Month: Clemmy Cracroft

When did you join NBR and why?

I joined in February 2024 after being recruited by another member of the Women’s Grandmasters team who had noticed that I was unattached to a team and thought that I would be a good addition. It was the first time I have been head hunted! I was very honored to be asked and thought that being part of a team would be great in terms of keeping me accountable and motivating me to do even better. I also thought it would be great for meeting more runners and being part of a community.

In what ways have you been involved with NBR?

Unfortunately due to my schedule (I work for Delta) it is difficult for me to do any of the scheduled runs so I have to train on my own.

What do you do when you're not running?

I love travelling - seeing new places, experiencing new cultures and trying new food. Also like to play tennis if I get time!

How did you initially get into running?

I used to run a bit in the UK socially but only really got into running properly about 14 years ago when I came to the USA for work.  My friend’s brother in law was working for Schneider who sponsored the Paris marathon and she asked me if I would be interested in running it as she would be able to get me a bib.   Running a marathon had always been on my bucket list so I said yes. I ended up running a reasonable time and it all progressed from there.

What is your favorite race distance?

I have to say marathon as I love the challenge it brings and learn something new about myself every time I do one.

Best running memory?

Finishing the Boston Marathon in 2018 when the weather was brutal.  There was persistent freezing rain and 20-30 mph head winds the whole way around. Many people dropped out with hypothermia and it crossed my mind to call it several times but I was determined to get round. I don’t think I have ever been so pleased to see a finish line! My hands were so cold I had to get a volunteer to take my gloves off as I just could not move them. Now every time I am having a hard race I think of that race and it always gets me through as I know if I could go through that, I can go through anything.

Favorite running route in NYC?

I like doing a loop from LIC over the Queensboro Bridge, down the West Side Highway, back over the Brooklyn Bridge and through Williamsburg to LIC. Central Park also as well!

What has running taught you or changed about you?

It has taught me to be disciplined and never to give up even when things are really tough. This has translated into my general life as well.

Favorite post-race food? 

Having done quite a few races in Ireland, you can’t beat a Guinness and a cheese and ham toastie!

Favorite song to run to / that makes you want to run?

“Let’s Go” by Jaden Bojsen & Sami Brielle

Favorite running social media account?

I like Six Minute Mile as always packed with loads of good info, tips and gear recommendations

What do you think is the worst part about being a runner?

Sometimes finding the motivation to run in extremes of weather 

Best advice to running newbies?

Don’t do too much too soon and enjoy the journey!

Current running goal?

Looking forward to finally getting my sixth star in Tokyo in March. I am running for Make a Wish and hopefully getting a new marathon PB.

Any other fun running facts about you?

I have done a total of 32 marathons so far and on a streak of 10 for Boston.

Next
Next

October Runner of the Month: Lily Zaballos