The GRIT team couldn’t be prouder of our very own Jamie Wales for training, competing and smashing his first ever full marathon, in Manchester, last weekend.
Jamie joined GRIT in 2016 as a Junior Project Manager, rapidly working his way through the ranks, and was recently promoted to Client Services Manager. Jamie has always been driven and motivated to achieve his professional goals, even taking it upon himself to embark on further education with Open University studying Computing and IT, to improve his technical ability in delivering websites and offering first-class client servicing – ensuring a seamless blend between anticipating client requirements and briefing our developers.
When Covid-19 took hold last year, everyone was finding their own way to approach the unique challenges of the pandemic, Jamie threw himself into running after being inspired by his dad, who completed a half marathon at the same time.
Jamie said: “It’s funny, I was always considered the slow kid. I had no natural running ability. What I’ve learned during the past two years is that if you are consistent and look toward a goal, it’s really crazy what you can achieve.”
The Manchester Marathon is known for its famous flat route, and incredible atmosphere. It is the fourth most popular in Europe with over 25,000 runners. Jamie finished his first-ever marathon at an impressive time of 3hr 27min.
The Marathon took place on Sunday 10th October, which also happened to be World Mental Health Day. Exercise and running especially, are brilliant – and free – ways to get your endorphins pumping and protect your mental health. Setting challenges for yourself can be a great way to build confidence, which can have a positive overall effect on your wellbeing.
Despite the stereotype of developers working all hours fixing code on lots of screens in a dark room, the team is an outdoorsy bunch; you can find us cycling, running, playing golf and more… and we look forward to celebrating with Jamie when he returns to our Fine City on his achievement!