Are you aware that more people have completed marathons and half marathons in the last twenty years than at any previous point in history? By completing first the London Marathon and then the Great North Run, Joanna inspired Jean to follow her footsteps, almost literally but not quite, by completing these two historic races. Interacting with the sporting landscape is a personal interest as well as a professional commitment. We share backgrounds in education and public service. Our leadership, research and innovation skills have been developed in complementary sectors and we have a similar work ethic. We share an interest in sport and a commitment to the arts, heritage and education sector.