Mum-of-three marking 30th birthday with fitness challenge

A PLUCKY mother-of-three has set herself a challenging fitness task to celebrate her 30th birthday.

Sarah Horsburgh with daughter Jess. Picture: contributed

Sarah Horsburgh, from Dunbar, is participating in 30 endurance tests throughout the year to mark the milestone – including Tough Mudder, Total Warrior, the Edinburgh Half Marathon and the Great Edinburgh Run.

Sarah, who is studying full-time to become an anatomy teacher, has already completed five events but has admitted the challenge is proving more difficult than expected.

All the money she raises will be donated to the Simpsons Special Care Baby unit at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

It’s a cause close to Sarah’s heart as two of her three daughters, who are all under the age of ten, were born prematurely.

Sarah said: “Your baby being born prematurely isn’t something you expect to happen, it was a really difficult time for us.

“At one point, we weren’t sure if Jess, my youngest daughter, would make it.

“The nurses and all the people that work there are great – if it hadn’t been for them I don’t think I could have done it.

“They are such a small charity and I hope I can raise a significant amount for them.”

Sarah, who is also a fully qualified personal trainer, said she was looking forward to participating in the Great Edinburgh Run this month.

She said it was one of her “easier” challenges and that she would enjoy taking in the sights of the city.

Sarah said: “The events closest to home are my favourite. I’m looking forward to the Great Edinburgh Run as all I have to do is run, there is no obstacles involved or anything.”

The Great Edinburgh Run takes place on Sunday, April 17, and will begin at the foot of Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park and finish in the same place.

A spokeswoman for the Great Edinburgh Run said: “This is an amazing opportunity for locals and visitors alike to take over the streets of the Capital and run past some of the city’s most famous landmarks.

“As well as historic streets and fantastic views, the course will be packed with entertainment, with everything from bagpipers and bands to Capital FM DJs.”

For more information about the event, or to sign up, visit: greatrun.org/ednews