Sophy and dash for darts ’24

Why did you sign up for the Doncaster City 10K? Have you ran before or are you embarking on a new challenge?

Every time I do the 10k I say ‘never again’ because I find the pressure of finding time to train really hard! However, I really did need a boot to get back into running this year, so this certainly helps. I ran the 10k for darts last year too, and feel that as Director of Fundraising & Development, I have no choice but to be a good role model and get out there. If I am asking other people to raise funds for us or donate, I should be actively fundraising myself too. It always feels like a new challenge each time I sign up for something like this, as I’m getting older and my body has various aches and pains that I have to overcome. I’m glad to feel motivated again, though, and I always feel so much better for getting out and doing some exercise.

Have you started training? What is motivating you to get out on those autumn runs?

Yes, I have to get into the habit of running more regularly or I’ll never get round the full 10k. It is a challenge to fit exercise round a full time job and busy family, so I try to get up and out early, but find it hard to get out of a warm bed – especially when it’s dark and miserable. I guess I’m motivated by the knowledge that I will feel better for having done it – I try to manifest the feeling of returning to the house and force myself to get those trainers on. I’m also motivated by the generous people who sponsor us – I’d feel awful if I let them down as they are so kind to donate for such an amazing charity.

Why are you fundraising for darts? What does darts mean to you?

I have worked for darts for 15 years and know how important our programmes are to Doncaster residents. Things are challenging for so many people, and not only do our artists inspire joy, curiosity and creativity in people aged 0-100, but they are highly skilled in improving people’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. We always say it’s ‘health by stealth’ – people are having such a great time, they don’t realise they are also improving their wellbeing as a result.

Have you been affected by any of our programmes? 

I’m always affected by people’s stories – whether a passing comment when I pop into a session – “Creative Directions has been a lifeline for me since my husband died three years ago” – or a more in depth case study where we discover that someone has genuinely turned their life around as a result of attending our sessions. The knowledge that so many people rely on our groups to get through the week drives me on to ensure they can continue.

At darts, we use creativity to express ourselves and help get stronger. Does running have a positive impact on your mood like this? Is that important to you?

Definitely! I never imagined I’d be ‘a runner’ and still find it funny when I hear the phrase. I run alone to get out into the beautiful landscape, or with a friend to catch up and feel connected. I run to empty my brain or think things through. I love listening to Adam Buxton’s podcast or Desert Island Discs and definitely feel better, stronger and more able to face life as a result.

For those in Doncaster unaware of darts’ work, what would you tell them? 

Get involved! Spread the work – there really is an opportunity for everyone. Even if it’s to find a quiet, welcoming and inspiring space at The Point to read a book or catch up on your emails. Our What’s On is full to bursting with opportunities to get creative, meet other people, build new skills, try new things etc. We have programmes in schools, in nurseries, in care homes, community centres and family hubs. We train artists, teachers, early years staff and health and social care staff. We work collaboratively with NHS, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, SY Music Hub, Schools, Universities, Cultural and Heritage organisations and many more. Come and talk to us!

Any words of motivations to those already signed up to the 10K?

It really is just a case of putting one foot in front of the other! It doesn’t matter how slow or fast you are – it’s about taking part. I’d definitely recommend the Couch to 5k app as a great way to build up your running stamina – I would never have started running without it. However, running is not for everyone and there are millions of things you can do to fundraise for darts. Now that we are on Just Giving, you can select darts as your charity of choice and set up whatever campaign you want – from bake sales to sponsored walks. If you are a business and are looking for a challenge for your employees, we’d love you to support us!

Take 2 minutes to support Sophy and keep our programmes running – donate here.