Natasha trains for 10k dash

Natasha King did not own a pair of trainers until this week – but now she is in training for the British 10k London Run 2010.

She drops her six-year-old daughter at school, and then runs laps of the local park, before starting work at St Joseph’s Pastoral Centre in north-west London. She teaches music and movement and arts and crafts and fine arts to adults with learning disabilities.

“Running in a marathon, even a mini one, is something I have never done,” Mrs King said. “I feel it is more achievable now than later. As the years tick by I feel a need to expand on my range of life experiences, and of course my levels of health and vitality.

“The main reason, and the one that makes the whole adventure worthwhile, are our students at St Joseph’s. They have helped to show me the meaning of humanity by ways of their acceptance, courage and strength, despite living with prejudice, misunderstanding, physical illness and isolation from others. The general positive regard and authenticity of spirit which exists at St Joseph’s Pastoral Centre is both comforting and humbling.”

Mrs King is hoping to raise money for the organisation, based in Hendon, which has two main areas of work: an activities centre for adults with learning disabilities, and an outreach service which supports families in the parishes in their spiritual and social life.

The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery will start the race on Sunday July 11 at 9.35am at Hyde Park Corner and finish close to the Cenotaph in Horse Guards Parade.
Mrs King said: “The run is my way of giving something back to the students.”

To support, visit www.justgiving.com/sjpc-10Krun-Natasha.