If i’d describe myself as a plant, I have a ‘care for’ label that reads ‘best kept outside’.
I crave the outdoors. As a trail runner, hiker, cyclist and avid snorkeller I am always in pursuit of adventure and find it difficult to say ‘no’ to any challenge.
From years of road running and completing five road marathons, I progressed onto trails and really found my escape. That led me to completing my first ultra last year (Race To The Castle) and signing up for my first 50 (May) and 100 (August) milers this year! 😳
A keen hiker, I have summited Ben Nevis twice and Pen y Fan once (until next weekend, when I am doing it again). I have also climbed some of the more ‘advanced’ peaks in Maine in the US. My motivation is always the view at the top 😉
You’ll regularly find me hiking along the Jurassic coast which is right on my doorstep. My favourite route is from Lulworth towards Weymouth and back. It has some pretty steep climbs, but when the sun is out the views are world class.
I find it criminal to live where I do in Bournemouth and not enjoy our coastline. So when I am not hiking or running, you’ll probably find me cycling along the prom. There is a cycle route that means in 10 to 15 minutes from my house, I can be cycling by the beach. My favourite time to do this is sunrise, but as I am a night owl that is rare.
If I dedicate a whole day to a ride, then I’ll start from my house, down to Bournemouth Pier, then go along to Sandbanks and get the chain ferry, then cycle out to Old Harry Rocks. The scenery on that route is stunning!
Melanie Campbell
