October’s star Dasher is club legend, Rick Marsden. Rick is a top, top bloke and one of those people who excels at everything he turns to – road running, fell running, darts, pool, disco dancing, karaoke…….. so annoying!
October 2026 Rick Marsden
1. Do you have a nickname?
As a child, I was called Mars Bar. Now I get called Rich, Tricky, Fat Lad, and of course, Dick!
2. What is your favourite piece of running kit/equipment?
I have to say my cheating trainers. They are amazing
3: What’s your favourite race?
The London Marathon. What a fantastic race. Such a great atmosphere, and the support you get around the course carries you through those last, tough few miles.
4: Any PBs that you’re proud of?
London Marathon 3h 23
Benidorm Half Marathon 1h 27
Hyndburn 10k (not so much the time but my first and probably only 1st place).
5: What has been your worst running injury?
No major injuries, just little calf niggles & muscle strains.
6: Improving Dasher to keep an eye on
David (Seddon) is flying at the moment but we always knew he had it in him. Jordi has also improved massively since he joined the club. He has thrown himself into parkrunning & fell running and is getting faster with every race.
7: Where is the most exotic place you have run?
Cuba is probably the most exotic and also the hottest.
8: Highlight of your running ‘career’ so far
That has to be meeting all of the Dashers – I have made some fantastic friends.
9: Any hobbies we don’t know about?
I am really into my pool and darts – basically any sport that you can play in a pub
10: Interesting fact about yourself
When I was doing well at Catering College I got invited to help cook for the Queen Mother at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle to celebrate her 100th birthday.
11: Most interesting job(s) past or present
I did Watch Repairing for 15 years – I just love tinkering with things.
12: Dasher you admire and why?
I do admire you all but Gareth Taylor, Simon Smith, Paul Conlon & Brian Morris have been great a great group. There is one more………….. Gareth’s Christmas +1
13: Any future running ambitions?
Only the one – to get a sub 3h Marathon.
14: Which song on your playlist makes you run faster & further?
I don’t listen to music when running but I do sing to myself.
15: Which person past or present would you most like to run with?
I’m happy running with the Dashers – they have got me to where I am today.
16: Best thing about Darwen Dashers.
A great bunch of people. All the support we give each other is fab.
17: Any running, or other superstitions?
No, I don’t believe in superstitions. Touch wood.
18: Your perfect, indulgent, post run meal
Curry or pizza and a pint Or a post-parkrun latte.
19: One piece of advice for a new runner
Just enjoy yourself and don’t take it too seriously.
20: Sum yourself up in 5 words
Fun, loyal, supportive, fat lad.
