A FITNESS fanatic who was able to combine her passion for travel and running is celebrating after completing her 100th marathon.

Caroline Jackson achieved the milestone on Sunday when she crossed the finish line at the Larnaca Marathon.

The 40-year-old travelled to Cyprus for the special occasion with her partner Paul Monaghan, who has also completed a century of marathons.

She said: "Originally, I wanted to get to 100 around my 40th birthday in September, but then I thought it would be nice to have two different things to celebrate.

"My parents live in Cyprus with my brother, so that is another reason why I wanted to do it. I wanted them to be there when I crossed the finish line."

"Although each race presents its own challenges, it is so rewarding when you do finish."

Her journey to the hundred club was by no means easy; with Caroline having to overcome a horrendous ordeal at the London Marathon in 2011.

She remembers collapsing less than two miles away from completing the race and being taken to hospital.

But she returned two years later and has since picked up three medals from the London Marathon.

Caroline admits the ability to travel all over the world has given her extra incentive to train hard over the years.

She added: "I have gone from 78 to 100 this year alone and last year I did 27 marathons.

"My first one was in 2011 and I have been able to go to at least 15 different countries since then.

"I enjoy the whole package of doing marathons. It is mainly for the travel I would say, as more than a quarter have been abroad."

Caroline, a member of Reading Roadrunners, met her partner in 2015 and their shared love of running has helped push them on to reach the magic ton.

"We have done most of our races together and we try to encourage each other," Caroline added.