Charlotte Ellis is an unabating figure in the world of parasport, having proudly represented Great Britain in endurance events for over 10 years. Despite being discouraged from sports as a child due to sight impairment, Charlotte has stamped her name on the paratriathlon World and European Championships – as well as the World Para Marathon Championships where she ran a stunning 03:23:47 with a Guide Runner alongside.

This year, Charlotte is running the adidas Manchester Marathon for the second time in her career, with the aim of qualifying for the prestigious Paralympic Games, held in Paris in 2024. We spoke with the athlete and role model ahead of the big day on Sunday 16^th April.

How has your training been going in the lead up to the Manchester Marathon?

So far training seems to be going well. Many thing can happen on the day that could affect time, such as weather or illness and injury, but touch wood things are going OK. I am lucky that with the support of my amazing running club New Marske Harriers I have completed my training despite some icy weather.

2) With Paralympic qualification firmly in your thoughts, how are you feeling ahead of the event on April 16th?

I am really looking forward to the race, and to hopefully seeing the results of my training. I would like to achieve Paralympic qualification at Manchester and then build on that in the lead up to 2024.

3) What will your pre-race preparation look like on the day?

I like to be organised and always pack my kit from a list. I have the same race breakfast of overnight oats and wear kit that I have tried before. I will warm up with my guide Claire, try to stay relaxed and just implement our race plan.

4) What would Paralympic qualification mean to you?

I have been incredibly lucky to represent Great Britain in paratriathlon World and European Championships and to run at the World Para Marathon Championships. The Paralympics is the ultimate aim for athletes with disabilities and I would love to have the opportunity to run for Great Britain at the Paralympics. However, if I do achieve this, it will be as a result of the encouragement, support and help of many people – from my parents, wider family and friends and the numerous guides over the years.

5) Are you looking forward to running what you’ve previously described as your favourite marathon?

I am really excited about running Manchester marathon and this will be my second time running the event. It is a great course with fantastic support and really friendly runners. I am also looking forward to having an awesome time with my fantastic guide Claire. There will always be tougher moments in a marathon, but the atmosphere in this city will really help with managing that.