In this episode of The Parkrunners Podcast, Catherine Stenson chats with Tom Sharples (@tom_tries_running), who went from never running to finishing the London Marathon after a work colleague dared him to enter the ballot — and he surprisingly got a place first time.

After crossing that finish line, Tom wanted to keep the running habit going… and that’s when he discovered parkrun. Starting at Hampstead Heath , Tom found the routine, community and mental reset he’d been looking for — and what began as a simple Saturday habit “accidentally” turned into a huge challenge: completing all 66 parkrun events across London and Greater London.

Together they talk about community, confidence, and why running can be such a powerful boost for mental fitness — especially for young men — as well as Tom’s mission to help more people simply try running, without pressure or perfection.

In this episode we cover:

• From non-runner to London Marathon finisher (first ballot attempt!)
• How to maintain the running habit after a big goal - discover parkrun!
• Discovering parkrun at Hampstead Heath — and why it stuck
• The London/Greater London Challenge: completing all 66 venues
• Simple tips for new runners (and why volunteering is a great way to start)

Sound bites:

• “If you run, you’re a runner.”
• “Parkrun is for everyone.”

Find Tom on Instagram: @tom_tries_running

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