What began as a way to cope with grief became a world record-breaking journey that’s taken Helen Ryvar across the globe — from sunrise runs in North Wales to volcanic trails in Fuerteventura and the ancient deserts of Petra.
A single mum of three and a self-described non-athlete in her youth, Helen’s transformation into a Guinness World Record holder for running consecutive half marathons is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
In this deeply personal episode, Helen opens up about the heartbreak that sparked her first streak, how running became her therapy, and the mental and physical resilience required to complete 1,000 consecutive half marathons — often starting at 4am. With races lined up from the Chester Ultra to international marathons in Malta and Brighton.
If you’ve ever questioned what you’re capable of, or needed a reminder of the strength that comes from simply showing up — this is the episode for you.
Tune in to hear Helen’s story of grit, growth, and running with purpose.
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Show notes
- Who is Helen
- 44 years old
- Single mum to 3 children
- Living in Wrexham in North Wales
- Getting into fitness before covid
- Starting running and running 111 consecutive half marathons and becoming the GWR holder for the achievement
- Running 1000 half marathons on her 2nd run streak
- Her early years and not being particularly sports and a little overweight
- Being more into languages and art
- Being punished and made to run
- Joining the cross country running team
- Receiving bad news
- Finding out her ex-husband had died
- Telling her children that they would no longer be able to see their daddy
- Being able to exercise and starting to run
- Finding her peace at 2 hrs - 2.15 mins running
- How the connection with nature saved her
- Finding a new rhythm and a way to clear her head
- Breaking the previous record of 75 half marathons
- Sharon Jesspo - South Africa (101 - half marathons)
- Submitting data to Guinness World Record for the 1000 half marathons
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