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A Journey Through Time with Eileen Bartlett: From Plymouth to Gosport
This interview was originally published on 28th August 2016.
In our latest instalment of the Red Sofa Interview series, we had the delightful opportunity to sit down with Eileen Bartlett, a vibrant and inspiring member of the Gosport running community. At 72, Eileen’s journey is a testament to the timeless spirit of running and the community it fosters.
Who is Eileen Bartlett?
Eileen, a Plymouth native born at the end of World War II, moved to Gosport in 1991 and quickly fell in love with the area. Her journey back to running, which began in 1977 as a means to lose weight, has since evolved into a passion that’s as strong as ever. Eileen’s first race was in 1978 with the Plymouth Athletic Club, where she started her long and diverse running career.
A Diverse Running Career
Over the years, Eileen has completed an impressive 15 marathons across the country, showcasing her endurance and determination. She described herself as a “metronome,” highlighting her consistent and persistent pace. Her love for cross-country is evident, and while she’s dabbled in track and road racing, it’s the marathons that have captured her heart.
Gosport: A Place to Call Home
Eileen’s affection for Gosport is palpable. She praises the area for its beauty and the myriad of opportunities it offers for swimming, biking, and running. Since taking up residence, she’s become a local celebrity, known for her photography and active participation in parkrun, a national phenomenon that she wholeheartedly endorses.
The Social Side of Running
Eileen emphasises the social aspect of running, which has allowed her to meet wonderful people from all walks of life. She cherishes the sense of family within the running community, where age and background fade into the background, leaving only the shared passion for the sport.
Personal Favourites and Inspirations
When asked about her favourite film, Eileen didn’t hesitate to mention “The Shawshank Redemption,” starring Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins. She also has a soft spot for “Love Actually,” a film that has become a Christmas tradition for her.
Conclusion: The Everlasting Joy of Running
Eileen’s story is a powerful reminder of the joy and camaraderie that running can bring into our lives. Her journey from Plymouth to Gosport, from her first race to her latest parkrun, reflects a life well-lived and a passion that continues to burn brightly. As we wrapped up the interview, Eileen’s enthusiasm and love for running and her community were as evident as ever, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing what you love.
Thank you, Eileen, for sharing your inspiring story and for being an integral part of the running community.
