Meet Joanne From England!

Joanne Musik is from Blackpool, Lancashire, England, and we asked her a few questions about running:

Why do you run?

During my life I have battled with mental illness and the stigma attached. Last year things came to a crisis point after a bereavment. I didnt know whether I was falling down a dark abyss. So one cold morning I eyed my trainers, checked the weather and set off on my first run in years. I felt finally able to clear my head and just tune out. Since that first one I have suffered from hip injuries, tendanitis, planter flaciatis, but I never gave up. This year I have completed my first of hopefully many half marathons and signed up for a marathon next year. I can confidently say running saved my life.

Describe your favorite place to run.

I live on the coast of northern England, and the weather is usually cold, wet and windy. But I love to run along sea front watching the waves crash over and the feeling of being free.

What’s your go-to pre- or post-run meal?

I keep it simple whole grain toasted bread and peanut butter.

What makes you a badass?

The ability to never give up, and every footfall is an amazing achievement; if I can do it anyone can.

How will you celebrate Global Running Day?

Meet up with my running buddy, head out of a coast run, then toast our success this year with a hot chocolate and piece of cake.

Read all of our Global Running Day stories from runners all over the world here.