When Braintree resident Ellen Colebourne received a ballot place for the London Marathon in 2011, she didn’t for a second think that three years later she would have transformed into a fitness fanatic.
But that is exactly what has happened and Ellen, who is Sales Admin at Persimmon Homes Essex, is now gearing up for three energy-sapping challenges – all in the space of six weeks.
Ellen, who is 38, is taking part in a Duathlon – a 10 km run followed by a 45 km cycle and another 5 km run – in the coming days (14th September 2014).
The week later she will dig her trainers out again for the Oslo Marathon and then four weeks later she is heading to Ireland for the Dublin Marathon.
Once Ellen’s latest challenges are complete, she will have completed seven marathons in total.
Ellen, who lives in Braintree with her husband, said: “Three years ago I applied for London and to my surprise I got a place. I’d not run previously but managed to finish in four hours and 25 minutes, which I was delighted about.
“Last year I did the TransGranCanaria in Gran Canaria, where I was living at the time, which is one of the biggest trail races through mountains.
“I’ve also done the Dublin Marathon and go out and do 10km and half marathons for training.”
Ellen has applied to do the London Marathon again next year – but she has vowed that it will be her last marathon as the intense training is taking up too much of her time.
Persimmon has already pledged £200 towards Ellen’s chosen charities and she has set up a fundraising page at www.justgiving.com.
Ellen ran a scuba diving centre in Spain before she moved back to the UK in January.
She started her new job with Persimmon Homes at the beginning of July – and it’s become a bit of a family affair.
Ellen’s sister Sarah Grainger is a construction secretary with Persimmon – and her sister’s brother Stuart Grainger also works for the leading house builder.
Ellen said: “I’m really enjoying the job. Running the diving centre was hard work. It’s nice to do regular hours and to be able to switch off when at home. Paid holidays are also a bonus!
“My colleagues are organised and proactive and have really helped me with the transition.”
Persimmon Homes Essex has developments in Saffron Walden, Chelmsford, South Ockendon, Grays, Aveley and Romford. For more information please visit www.persimmonhomes.com.
