A true inspiration within the running community, Michelle Vaughan has raised expectations even higher after achieving her sub-3-hour marathon.

Dedicated, resilient and enthusiastic, East Cheshire Harriers athlete Michelle has transformed her life through running, and now she is achieving goals that many runners strive to achieve.

But it’s not been a straight path for Michelle, tackling obstacles and setbacks along the way.

Despite training incredibly hard, her confidence was at an all-time low ahead of the Frankfurt Marathon in October. For the first time, Michelle had to pull out of a race, her body just did not want to complete the 26.2 miles ahead of her.

“I cried my eyes out in Frankfurt, I was devastated, and I even said the words, ‘I am never doing a marathon again,’ I was so down.

“But within four days, I booked the Valencia Marathon as I knew I was fit and not injured. I did not want to pull out of the race again, as that was a habit I did not want to cultivate,” she said.

Heading to Valencia, equipped with a new sense of motivation, Michelle powered through the race to finish in a remarkable 2 hours 58 minutes.

“I cannot stop smiling, it felt amazing to finally get sub 3 hours, I cannot wait to get the tattoo I promised myself.

“I have reached the other key runner goals: sub 20-minute 5k, sub 40-minute 10k and sub 90-minute half marathon, but I was so worried that I might not reach my marathon goal.

“I am most proud that, as a 51-year-old grandma, I can show that age is no barrier, and you can still continue improving,” she said.

This implausible accolade has been well received by the Tameside running community, who have flocked to congratulate Michelle.

But no one feels more pleased than the wonderful athlete herself, who used her former knockbacks as fuel to succeed.

“I knew I would’ve done terribly if I had continued in Frankfurt, and it takes a while to recover from racing a marathon.

“Now I feel even prouder of myself as I have shown resilience, and I draw inspiration from people such as Gabe Grunewald, our situations are not comparable, but her legacy inspires me.”

The 51-year-old began running 13 years ago, aged 38. In that time, she has transformed herself from a heavy smoker to an inspirational athlete. Despite changing her physical attributes, the biggest change for Michelle has been in her mental wellbeing.

“Running helps me to set goals, gain confidence and, for once in my life, feel good about who I am as a person. Too many women look for external sources to gain self-esteem, but I think it’s better to generate your confidence internally.

“I also love the community at East Cheshire Harriers, the other runners are so supportive and it’s great to feel part of something within your local community.

“I am probably fitter than a lot of women my age, which gives me the energy for entertaining my gorgeous grandchild, nicknamed Flo Jo,” she said.

Being a real story on how sport can transform lives, Michelle would encourage all women to enjoy some form of movement if they can. She feels tons of gratitude for the fact that she can run, taking on mobility work every single day to remain injury free.

However, it’s not just running that she would inspire women to take up, even walking helps to alter endorphins within the brain.

“Walking is great to start with, any form of movement such as dance is amazing too.

“I used to really struggle with anxiety, but movement gives you freedom, a new community and dedicated time for you,” she said.

A proud member of East Cheshire Harriers, Michelle represents the club in a variety of races, including playing an integral role in team races, The squad has seen progression within the women’s side in recent times, but there is always space for more to run.

“ECH is a brilliant club to run for, you can choose road, cross country, track, or do them all.

“The women’s side still needs attention, as at times we struggle to get one team competing. It is definitely getting better, growing, and growing. More women mean more competition for team places and inspiration to keep improving.

“Our cross-country team is going to do extremely well this season, which is really exciting. Our men’s side is extremely competitive and they’re doing well across the board too,” she said.

It’s undeniable that Michelle is one of the most inspirational runners in the borough of Tameside. Her work to constantly improve the sport and strive for greatness while doing so is clear to see, making her an excellent candidate for ‘Women in Sport’.

Do you know an inspirational sporting woman in Tameside or Glossop?

Women in Sport is a weekly column which shares the incredible stories of ladies involved in sport across the area. We are always on the lookout for fresh stories to tell. To nominate someone for the column or get involved yourself, please email Katie on katie.catherall@questmedianetwork.co.uk. 

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