Kertu Jukkum: running season begins with the Narva half-marathon
Amateur athlete Kertu Jukkum, who was born in Narva, has set her sights on running the half-marathon in the border city on June 1st. “It’s the best way to honor the memory of the world’s best grandmother, whose hometown was Narva,” she shares, explaining the significance of the date. Narva City Run, the largest sports event in Ida-Virumaa, brings together running enthusiasts from all over Estonia and abroad.
1. What’s your connection to Narva?
My twin sister and I were born in Narva Hospital. We also spent a lot of time at our grandmother Mammi's house on Joala Street. Many beautiful memories and unforgettable adventures are linked to the city of Narva.
2. Why did you choose the half-marathon instead of, for example, the 5-kilometer race?
I’ve been on a forced break from training for a while. With an endorphin deficit, I’m grabbing the best opportunities available. June 1st is the anniversary of Mammi's death, and running a half-marathon on that day is the best way to remember the world's best grandmother. It's also a good challenge, which pushes me to train more.
3. Have you run in Narva before?
Yes, I’ve done morning runs on the lovely streets of Narva several times. Additionally, my twin sister and I ran a half-marathon together in Narva once. It was the only time we ever ran together. It was her first and last half-marathon because an old injury flared up, and the doctor banned long-distance running. Mammi was with us in Narva back then, waiting with her traditional feast on Joala Street. This year, I’ll be running for my twin sister too.
4. What motivates you to stay active?
I want to be healthy and happy. If movement was a pill, it would undoubtedly be the best medicine in the world. In addition to better physical health, it improves mental health, work performance, and mood.
5. How do you avoid getting tired of training?
What helps me is knowing I’m registered for a race. It keeps me constantly motivated to go to training. When I lose focus, I think about the smile waiting for me at the finish line. That good feeling doesn’t take long to appear.
6. Are you running to achieve a specific time?
It’s too late to become an athlete, and running three seconds faster isn’t worth pushing myself too hard. I run for the joy of it, for better physical and mental shape. I like to think I’m collecting running views and smiles. The lively atmosphere of public sports events is a nice bonus.
7. Any recommendations in Narva?
St. Alexander's Church with its installations and views from the tower is worth visiting. Kreenholm is a must-see with a good guide! A trip to Narva’s "Venice" with its canals and boats is particularly exciting if you can connect with a local.
