Student Interview: Jonathan Mullen

26 September 2013

Student Profile:

Name: Jonathan Mullen

Age: 17

Subjects: Sport and Business

Hi Jonathan, you are representing The Sixth Form College in the English Schools Fell Running Championships this weekend! How are you feeling?

I am feeling quite confident but it is a tough competition. I took part last year so I know how demanding it is, however I took part in a fell race last August and won so I am hoping that is a good sign!

How much training is involved prior to the run?

I train 6 days a week so I definitely have to be dedicated. My coach keeps training quite consistent and we usually do a mix of track sessions, steady runs and long runs. Steady runs help to build on my endurance and speed whereas long runs build on my endurance and strength.

How did your interest in running begin?

Whilst I was at Pensby High School I used to play Football- but was always criticised by the team for not passing the ball! I eventually realised it was not the sport for me and took up running on Friday evenings with the Pensby Runners. I started taking running more seriously when I was 15.

What inspired you to take more of an interest?

I had just got back from a run and turned on the TV- the Brownlee’s were running a triathlon in Madrid and I realised I wanted to do that one day too!

You mentioned that you won a Fell Race last August- have you had any more recent successes?

I raced on Tuesday (24/09/13) in the multi-terrain series and came 8^th overall but I was 1^st for the under 20’s group, for which I received a trophy. I also took part in the Endmoor 10K in July which is the hardest in England. I finished 6^th overall which was quite an achievement! I have also been county selected for running which has been an ambition of mine so I am really proud of that.

You are the favourite to win on Sunday- how are you handling the pressure?

It is quite a lot of pressure, however, I am just going to treat it like a normal race and do the same as I would normally do. I would be happy for a Top 5 place as they are selected for training to race in Europe which would be great- however anything in the Top 10 would be an achievement- it is a tough course!

How have you found the support at the college?

I have had a lot of support and encouragement from my sports teachers- they always ask me how I am getting on and often come along to support me at racing events. My sports teacher, Pat Riley, ensured I was signed up to the Schools Cross Country team which really helps with my training especially building up my endurance during the winter months.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I am hoping for a selection to represent Great Britain in running, which is something I am aiming for by the time I am 21. I would also like a selection for Great Britain in the age group triathlon. Career wise I am hoping to one day work with my Father at his Online Retail Company, however, until that day I will be concentrating on my running!

Jonathan is a runner for Liverpool Harriers and Athletics Club and will be racing in the club colour, Yellow, at The English Schools Fell Championships.

Good Luck Jonathan from everyone at The Sixth Form College, Birkenhead- we are sure you will have a fantastic race!