Robert Moore began running in school cross-country but took a 32-year hiatus before a friend reignited his passion in 2007. Although he once aimed for a sub-four-hour marathon, he considers completing marathons—despite setbacks like a stress fracture—as his greatest achievement. He wonders if he might have one more marathon in him…
Robert Moore
Bristol Half Marathon 2024
Interview - November 2024
When did you start running/what got you into running?
I started running at school cross country. Then I left school and never ran again for about 32 years. Bernie Mundy got me back running in 2007 when he wanted to enter a works team in the Wells 5k. He was the one that inspired me to run and I used to always look up to him thinking I hope I can do what he is doing when I reach his age. (Think he is 9 years older than me. I have known of him since I was about 13).
How long have you been a member of Wells City Harriers for?
I have probably been a Harriers member for about 15 years?
What do you enjoy about the Wednesday evening group run?
The Wednesday group suited me when I was working but I prefer running in the mornings if possible, but I still like the Wednesday night to meet up with fellow Harriers.
What distance races do you enjoy running?
I prefer the half marathon distance best (on road, not keen on off road!).
Rob with his Half Marathon reward.
You are part of the 100 club at Parkrun. What do you enjoy about it?
I don’t particularly enjoy the run but like the comradery. And I know it’s good to get some fast running in!
Are there any standout moments during your
time at Wells City Harriers? (for yourself or other members?)
My stand out moments include completing five marathons (four at London - all through club places). These have also provided the biggest disappointment by failing to get sub four hours. I always did it in the training but on the day either injuries or the hot weather impacted the time. But I was glad to have finished them all.
Where is the best place you have run?
I like the Reading half marathon. I do it most years as one of my daughters lives there. It is the stadium finish that I enjoy! I am also pleased with my finish time of 1:40:08 a couple of years ago.
Rob finishing the Reading Half in 2022 in a time of 1:47:26
The best place is London for the marathons but I am doing Benidorm half at the end of November. I think that will be enjoyable.
Did you have a preferred running brand?
ASICS; they are easy to get. Just go over to Clarks Village and grab a pair.
Do/Did you participate in any other sports?
I don’t participate in any other sport but regularly watch football at Bristol.
What is your greatest running achievement?
The greatest achievement must be the marathons. I never expected to do one when I started running again and I am sure I may have one more left in me. In the 2014 London Marathon I suffered a stress fracture at mile 12 but still finished. That was painful! I was off work for about a month after.
Rob with his 2016 London Marathon finishers medal.
To view Rob's performances, visit his 'Power of 10' and 'Run Britain' profiles, by clicking on the images below.
Missed an interview? Click on the links below to Meet another Harrier.
Graham Goldsmid - January 2024
Sophie Nicholls - December 2023