“I decided that I wanted to run this to raise awareness around dyslexia, as I was diagnosed with it at the age of seven,” says Hannah Niles in preparation for one of her biggest challenges yet.
For Hannah Niles the Bath Half-Marathon is more than just a physical test; it’s an opportunity to raise awareness about her battles with dyslexia, which has been a significant part of her life.
Initially, the goal was simple; to just complete the race for the young runner, but after seeing progress, she decided to push beyond her limits.
“I was initially just aiming to complete the race as I have never run anything this far before. But, once I was able to do a 10K in a certain amount of time, I decided to aim for a 30-minute sub and finish it”.
Nile’s choice to participate in the race became even more meaningful when she realised it was for a greater cause.
“My friend was the one who inspired me to run the half marathon with her, but when I knew it was for Charity I just knew that this was something I needed to do”.
She added: “I instantly knew that I wanted to race. I chose a charity that is really personal to me, ‘the British Dyslexia Association'”.
Her connection to the BDA stems from her own experience living with dyslexia, which she was diagnosed with at a young age.
Training for the marathon has been challenging, particularly with balancing her University commitments and running.
The new runner said: “I try and run three times a week. Monday’s and Thursday’s are my days off. It’s also my days off from University, so that works perfectly for me.”
Despite the harsh winter weather, including freezing morning temperatures, Hannah remained committed to her training.
She said: “I started training in October, and the weather was awful, which acted as a external challenge, and did effect my motivation at times. I was running in minus-five to five degree weather, which made it difficult to breathe and stay warm before and after training.”
Although she’s completed 5k and 10k races before, this half-marathon of 20k represents a new challenge.
“I have never run this far before,” Hannah admits.
“For me, it was the mind game of it all that was the hardest. I was a dancer for 16-years of my life, so my stamina and physical endurance was good. The challenge was more mental. I had to trick my brain into believing I could run this far, but it wasn’t easy.”
Running for a cause close to her heart is a powerful source of motivation for her, where she has raised £200 for the BDA.
We’re looking for an Events & Fundraising Officer to join our team and play a key role in supporting the dyslexic community. You’ll be planning and delivering high-quality events and providing administrative support to the fundraising team. This hybrid role involves one day a… pic.twitter.com/3kdmJi23vW
— British Dyslexia Association (@BDAdyslexia) March 14, 2025
She expresses: “As I am running for a charity that’s extremely personal to me, this acts as my main source of motivation. The support from my friends, family and even strangers has been humbling.”
With race-day approaching it promises to be an emotional experience for the 20-year-old. “My parents, cousin and friends are coming to watch me race, which is exciting. Knowing I have their support will push me more”, she admits.
Her dedication to both her physical training and cause she supports, Hannah Niles strength, resilience, and passion will carry her across the finish line, and she is ready for the challenge ahead.
