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A Red Sofa Interview with Nick ‘Carts’ Carter
This interview was originally published on 11 November 2022.
Welcome back to our 545 Red Sofa Interview series. Today, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Nick, a pivotal figure in the running community and the co-founder of the 545 running group.
In a candid conversation, Nick shared insights into the origins of 545, his personal running journey, and what the future holds.
The Genesis of 545
The idea for 545 sprouted when Nick and a few others began running after work to decompress and plan for the next day. What started as a small group quickly blossomed into a community. “It started at 5:45 when the shop closed,” Nick recalls, emphasizing how the group became a space for friends and customers to connect and grow together.
Nick’s Running Origins
Despite not always loving running, Nick has been involved in the sport in various capacities throughout his life, primarily to stay fit for other sports. His journey took a significant turn when he started following his children, Harry and Charlie, to their races and training events. This led him to join the Athletic Club and eventually embrace running as a significant part of his life.
Favorite Races and Achievements
Nick shared his fondness for the Gosport Golden Mile, a race close to his heart due to its local roots and involvement with children. He also enjoys the Paphos 10K, which he sees as an “unfinished business” and a challenge he’s eager to conquer. Reflecting on his achievements, Nick modestly mentioned his near-qualification for the Junior Olympics in 1976, a testament to his lifelong dedication to the sport.
Running Preferences and Gear
When it comes to distances, Nick prefers shorter races like 5Ks, attributing his choice to a short attention span and a desire for variety. He also expressed a deep attachment to the Saucony Kinvara shoes, a nod to his son’s early sponsorship and the comfort they provide.
Beyond Running: Personal Tidbits
In a lighter part of the conversation, Nick shared his admiration for Margaret Thatcher and Clint Eastwood, his preference for Desperado beer and walnut cake, and his bucket list goal of running the London Marathon properly trained.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, Nick is focused on the Paphos 10K, aiming to excel in his age group. But beyond personal goals, 545 remains a significant part of his life. “It’s our other family,” he says, highlighting the group’s importance as a social circle and a community of like-minded individuals.
Conclusion
As the interview concluded, it was clear that 545 and running are more than just hobbies for Nick; they are integral parts of his life that bring joy, community, and a sense of accomplishment. His journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, and it’s an inspiration to runners and non-runners alike.
Thank you, Nick, for sharing your story and for being an essential part of the 545 family.
