Carol started running 21 years ago after being encouraged to join the Glastonbury Fun Run, which ignited her passion for the sport, and she joined Wells City Harriers shortly after. Her greatest running achievement was completing the London Marathon three years in a row, improving her time. Click to read more.
Carol Buckland
(First FV55 in the 200th edition of the Street 5K, December 2023)
Interview - November 2024
When did you start running/what got you into running?
I started running 21 years ago. A friend talked me and my husband into running the Glastonbury Fun Run and then he didn’t run it himself! A week before I said I wouldn’t run after Glastonbury, but I was hooked after the race!
Do you have a running 'hero' or someone that inspired you to run?
Paula Radcliffe was my running hero.
How long have you been a member of Wells City Harriers for?
I joined Wells City Harriers about 20 years ago.
What do you enjoy about the Wednesday evening group run?
I enjoy running with faster runners and running a variety of routes and terrain in the summer months. However, road runs are a definite favourite.
Chard Flyer, January 2024
What distance races do you enjoy running?
Half marathons were my favourite, but due to declining fitness and injuries, racing 10 km has been my longest distance for a year or two.
Carol (centre) pre-race at the Town Tree 10K, May 2024
Do you have a favourite local running race?
Glastonbury Around the Tor has to be my favourite. It was a shame it wasn’t on this year! I don’t particularly like Parkrun as it’s too short for me, so I run up and back making 8.5 miles if I ever do one.
Ford Abbey 10K, July 2024
Where is your favourite place you’ve ever run?
The London Marathon has to be my best place as there are so many landmarks on the course.
Do/Did you participate in any other sports?
I’ve done a few sprint triathlons, as I enjoy cycling too. I also enjoy yoga and pilates with the intention of preventing injuries!
What is your greatest running achievement?
My greatest achievement was running the London Marathon three years in a row, improving time by three minutes each race. My first London Marathon was one year after I started running and I was presented with the Wells City Harrier shield for best newcomer (I think!).
To view Carol's performances, visit her '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