This summer Romax employees will be participating in the Snowdonia challenge. This involves walking 100 km in 3 days. Each of our employees shared how they are preparing for the challenge and what they find the most difficult. Here Alina shares her thoughts about the Snowdonia challenge.
Who are you, how long have you worked for Romax, and what does your job entail?
My name is Alina, I’m the Marketing Manager at Romax, and I joined last August, so I have been here for almost a year now.
What made you volunteer for the Snowdonia Challenge 2019?
I’m a beautiful scenery hunter. I love taking pictures and am planning to take tons in Snowdonia, let’s hope it’s not going to rain.
How would you describe your current fitness levels?
I began attending a gym regularly around a year ago, I also started training for Snowdonia a couple of months ago, so people who know me say that I’m fit for the challenge.
How are you preparing for the challenge?
In the gym, I train my back and legs to prepare for the challenge. I also walk home from work 3 days a week. I started with just 6 km a day, and last week I began to walk all the way through the foot tunnel under The Thames river. That way takes me either 10 or 12 km, depending on which foot tunnel I take.
Have you ever taken part in any physical challenges before?
This is my first ever challenge. I’ve never attempted any challenges before. I haven’t ran any marathons, and here I go signing up for a two marathon distance challenge!
Do you have any concerns/fears facing the 100kms in 3 days challenge?
Not having experience in any other challenges actually makes me nervous. I’m not worried about walking 30 km in one day, I’m much more concerned about waking up the next day and walking the same number of kilometres again. I also hope that my anxiety won’t bother me, because if it will it might make the challenge extremely challenging for me.
Do you have any plans to help you get through the challenge?
I’m pleased that so many of my colleagues are joining me. I know for sure that they will support me through all the way, and knowing that helps my nerves. I have also read quite a few blog posts where people share their experiences from previous years of The Snowdonia Challenge. Reading tips from people who made it through is really useful.
Is there going to be a luxury/personal item you will be taking with you?
I will have everything possible that will make me walk more comfortably. I have two pairs of shoes – trainers and hiking boots. I have also purchased walking poles, hiking backpack and my favourite protein bars that taste like a Bounty bar. I’m thinking of different possible scenarios and keep ordering other things that will help me to go through it. Feeling that I’m prepared 100% will definitely lower my anxiety.
What do you think will help the most you to complete this challenge?
I think the combination of training that I’ve been through, reading tips from previous attendees and of course support from my colleagues will help me. Knowing that some of my colleagues have run marathons, conquered the 3 peak challenge and Iron man challenges makes me believe that I will definitely be able to do The Snowdonia challenge. But if not, I know for sure that I will hear Robin saying “You can do it” and when people believe in you, you start believing in yourself too.
What is your favourite sports activity?
Cycling. I used to cycle a lot when I was a kid, and I still love it. My favourite saying was “Look, Mum, no hands.”
If you wish to support Alina’s walking challenge and help Porchlight to continue their fantastic work, please visit her fundraising page to donate: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AlinaAgarkova
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