Marathon man runs to top in only eight years (From Stroud News and Journal)

Marathon man runs to top in only eight years

DAN ROBINSON has completed his remarkable sporting journey from jogger to Commonwealth Games podium bronze in just eight years.

The part-time games teacher at Beaudesert Park School did not start running seriously until 1998.

Robinson said. "I got into it by accident. I was overweight, so I joined a gym and found I could run on a treadmill."

Another gym-goer, impressed at what he saw, suggested that Robinson try a local road race - he hasn't looked back. However, it has been a tough route to the top. He missed out on Lottery funding last year and at one stage seriously thought about quitting the sport.

Recent support from Stroud and District AC and a number of local companies has allowed Robinson to continue.

With the acclaim richly afforded to him, he will now be hoping further sponsors will come forward as he maintains a push for honours in the European Championships this Summer in Gothenburg and the Olympics in Beijing in 2008.

Robinson is acutely aware of the people around him that have backed him in his quest for glory.

He added: "My wife, Jess, has sacrificed a lot.

"I have been working part-time as a games teacher bringing in only half an income, while she has been working full-time as a surveyor.

"My family and coach have all been brilliant to me-I can't thank them all enough."

Robinson is due to return to Nailsworth next Monday, with mum Angela, dad Myles and brothers George and Will.

Meanwhile, Robinson is likely to parade his medal at the home of Forest Green Rovers.

John Clapp, a director of the club said: "Dan is a Forest Green fan. He did brilliantly and I will be contacting him to arrange a time for him to come and be our guest."