Angela Phillips Conquers the London Classics
Operations Administrator achieves one of the UK’s toughest fitness challenges
This week, we are proud to shine the spotlight on Angela Phillips, our Operations Administrator, who has achieved an extraordinary milestone – completing the London Classics Challenge. This gruelling trio of events includes the London Marathon (26.2 miles), Ride London (100 miles) and the Swim Serpentine (two miles open water).
From One Marathon to a Trio of Challenges
Angela’s fitness journey began more than twenty years ago when she first entered the London Marathon. “Originally, it was just to lose a bit of weight, do some running and get fitter,” she explained. “Then I got the bug for running and entered the marathon to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.”
Her first London Marathon became the springboard for something bigger. “I didn’t even realise there was a London Classics medal at the time. But I’m a medal freak – I love medals – so once I knew, I was determined to complete it.”
Training with Grit and Determination
Training for such demanding events required consistency and resilience. Angela ran four times a week, cycled up to 18 miles at weekends, and swam in open water two to three times a week, without a wetsuit, even in winter.
There were inevitable low points too. Angela recalls one particularly testing ride: “We were five hours in, and I was adamant I was not getting back on that bike. But you just have to dig deep and keep going.”
"In those really testing moments you have to dig deep and get into the right headspace to overcome your mental block.”
Finding Joy in the Journey
Despite the hard work, there were moments of joy and camaraderie along the way. “During the bike ride, my friend and I were 70 miles in on a warm day. The highlight was sitting on a BP forecourt with a can of Coca-Cola and a chunky Kit Kat!”
For Angela, finishing each event, and receiving the medal – was the true reward. “It was the final of a series of challenges I had to get through. To have successfully completed them all and gained the medal meant so much.”
"If I can do it, anyone can!”
An Inspiration to Others
Angela’s story is all the more inspiring because of where she started. “I was overweight, I smoked – I’m not your typical fitness person you imagine doing these events. But if I can do it, anyone can!”
Her advice for others considering a challenge is simple: “Don’t overthink it. Break the distance down, take it in your stride, and trust that you can do more than you think.”
What's Next?
Completing the London Classics hasn’t slowed Angela down. She has already signed up for the London T100 Triathlon and has her sights set on further endurance challenges once she has fully recovered from injury.
“I’ve already done three Ironmans and an 80k run. Next, I’d like to take on a 100k run – but first I need to let my body heal!”
Angela’s achievement is a remarkable example of perseverance, determination, and joy in success. Her journey reminds us all of the power of setting a goal and never giving up.