It has been 13 weeks since Lockdown! We have recently been able to enjoy some socially distanced group runs … It makes it a lot easier when you are running with friends. The session seems more like fun…
Here is Darrell’s lockdown running experience…..
Week 1-6
By Darrell Benge
2020 – There were lots of plans at the beginning of the year. I had several races in the schedule including my first half marathon in Milton Keynes and of course the clubs 10k, and was also looking forward to seeing this years couch to 5k group through to their graduation.
Our member Sue Parrish has been treating us to her weekly experiences whilst under lock down.
Chapter 8
By Sue Parrish
Monday 1st June at 07:00 am as promised to my son Scott we are out for a fantastic Monday run. Superb clear running conditions (you can’t get better than this guys), we headed up to “Maddy Woods” meeting the occasional dog walker and ensuring we “socially distance”. Certain I saw Rich, SRC approaching The Common for his personal run ?!
Blue skies and a beautiful poppy field to the right, we headed up to The Black Barn. Very dusty and hard mud conditions under foot – very grateful for my new padded running trainers!
Chose to attack the “huge hill” to my right – needs to be done due to “lockdown madness” and hills will improve PBs as Nick and Kevin advise me. My son will be doing the hill when he is ready. I am sending you a picture of me at the TOP of the hill. Woo Hoo!!
It was then all downhill from the woods to The Common. Very steady run down hill and a couple of trucks passed us throwing up the dust.
Back home for 09:00am – my son has improved his running and his mood has really uplifted. So great to see how the running is benefiting him.
Guys get out there, spoil yourselves and get a steady RUN for yourselves! Loving the green spaces and beauty of the Shrewton countryside.
Our member Sue Parrish has been treating us to her weekly experiences whilst under lock down…..
Chapter 7
By Sue Parrish
May 27th
Today (Tuesday) was a very amazing, scenic and enjoyable run for me and also a proud achievement!! I was woken abruptly at 07:30am by my next door neighbour conducting her “Boot Camp” Zoom Channel from her back garden decking! SO very loud!!!!
I planned for an early run as I knew it was going to be a “scorcher” of a day. My son who is 19, agreed to accompany me on my run – as he had invested in some running trainers and had wanted to join me for some time!
We left the house for a gentle “starter run” over The Common. However, we headed up towards “Maddy Woods”. The weather was kind with a cool breeze. Fabulous country views again and so peaceful, away from hysteria and everyday affairs!!
Scott did his best and I encouraged him to keep going, some sips of water and he wanted to head back!! NO I said we need to keep going, persistence pays off and Scott despite feeling it was tough – found some second energy and got into a steady stride.
We went all uphill to the Black Barn (I excitedly pointed out “my hills” which I like to run up as a challenge – he was shocked (so we circumvented them – this time!!) and we then turned left and went down the long grit hill towards the Common, passing a very keen runner heading briskly past us uphill with a cheerful “Hi!”
When we got home (1hour and 30 mins later), and some much needed cool down stretches in the garden) I could see that Scott had thoroughly enjoyed the run and his personal achievement! He was shattered – but it was great to see the beaming smile on his face. I think the green running spaces, fresh air and exercise definitely boost your physical and mental health. I really do benefit from these runs – it gives me some structure, routine and most importantly, “Me Time”.
He has worked SO hard over many previous months with University Studies/Design Projects and coping with the Pandemic – consequently, he has rested all day!!
The weather is going to be great all week guys – so enjoy it whilst it’s here!! Get out there early!! Kick start your day.
Our member Sue Parrish has been treating us to her weekly experiences whilst under lock down…..
Chapter 6
By Sue Parrish
May 16th
Today was the day for a “Get it Done” Run at 9:35 am
I ran from “Lockdown” to gain some much needed head clearance and essential exercise for myself.
I headed into the village and around Maddington Church and up to Maddy Woods. It was hot, and I social distanced from some dog walkers – all uphill to the barn on hard, dry ground.
Our member Sue Parrish has been treating us to her weekly experiences whilst under lock down…..
Chapter 5
By Sue Parrish
April 27th
Today was an early run out at 09:00am along the Common and the alternative way towards “Maddy Woods” with my daughter. It was very cool and quite grey skies.