Rebecca and Sam are two of our seven fundraisers running the Fitbit Semi Marathon de Paris (Paris half marathon) on Sunday 5 March.

We asked them why they were running to fundraise for Victim Support and what their top training tips are.

‘We’re Rebecca and Sam, and we work in the volunteering team at Victim Support.

‘We’re aiming to raise £1,000 for Victim Support’s national helpline, Supportline. It’s a free, confidential phone line that provides emotional support and can often be the first place a victim of crime turns when they desperately need help.’

So, how long have you been running?

Rebecca: ‘I used to run quite regularly but haven’t done any running for 18 months. So I’m starting from scratch!’

Sam: ‘I taught myself to run a few years ago — I was definitely not athletic before that! Since then I’ve worked towards little challenges. A half marathon is my longest so far and a little scary!’

What’s your favourite running route and song to run to?

Rebecca: ‘My favourite running route is down Regent’s Canal which is close to home, especially running past London Zoo which is awesome.

‘My favourite song to run to is ‘Earned it’ by The Weeknd, but actually any big ballad that makes me want to sing works for me!’

Sam: ‘Like Rebecca, I love running along the canal — it’s great to see the boats, watch the ducks and it’s very flat!

‘For songs, I need a beat or bass to run to — cheesy metal songs are great!

‘My favourite song is probably Slam by Pendulum. It makes me feel like I’m running in a thriller movie — anything to keep the legs moving.’

How are you feeling at the moment?

Rebecca: ‘It’s going to be a challenge to do the race and we’ve set ourselves a big fundraising target.

‘But Victim Support is such an important charity to us. To raise funds for such a vital service like Supportline is a real inspiration when tired legs or cold winter rain kick in!’

Sam: ‘We are also really excited about the opportunity to eat as many croissants as we can — for energy!’

If you’d like to join our team for the Semi Marathon de Paris, sign up for a free place by emailing fundraising@victimsupport.org.uk.