Stride magazine - Autumn 2013

Autumn 2013

the jogscotland magazine

jogscotland.org.uk

WIN! High viz jacket and tights from Run 4 It Four page special: One Big Weekend Inspiration: From misery to marathon for Margaret Cross training: Aquafit plus‌ the best autumn running events for your diary

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contents 04

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

contents Warm-Up – Fraser Murray

06

Scottish Slimmers

26

News and Events

08

28

jogscotland Dunfermline 10th Anniversary

10

Race Preview - Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run Fantastic 50

30

Smokies 2013

11

In Shorts

32

Great Women’s 10K

12

Cross Training Aquafit

34

Race Directory

13

Awards

36

Inspiration Margaret Wright

15

Race Review Peterhead Running Festival

38

One Big Weekend

18

Jog Leaders’ Update

39

Race Review The 100th Inverness Parkrun

22

Cool Down

40

WIN! WIN! WIN!

42

Mini Strides

24

sponsors and funders

Front cover photograph: Lewis, Struan and Lara Calder at Edinburgh One Big Weekend ©Lesley Martin www.lesleymartin.co.uk

Designed and Printed by

Meet the Jog Crew 05

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Meet the Jog Crew

Billy Mitchell Head of jogscotland

Ann Davidson Programmes Co-ordinator

Sue Gyford Digital Communications and Press Officer

billy.mitchell@ scottishathletics.org.uk

ann.davidson@ scottishathletics.org.uk

sue.gyford@ scottishathletics.org.uk

07801 634198

0131 539 7341

0131 539 7350Winning is not everything, but the effort to win is.

Jog Scotty The Jog Dog! Mascot of jogscotland

Main Office

Membership Department

jogscotland@ scottishathletics.org.uk

membership@ jogscotland.org.uk

0131 539 7341

0131 273 3003

Stride – the jogscotland members’ magazine Editor: Sue Gyford sue.gyford@scottishathletics.org.uk Designer: Simon Gray, 3-56 Media Ltd Contributors: Fraser Murray, Sue McPhail, Maria Gracie, Margaret Wright, Joan Munro.

Photographers: Lesley Martin, www.lesleymartin.co.uk (front cover, pp15, 20, 31), Kate Sutherland, (pp38,39), Janet Gyford (p41).

Other photographs submitted by jogscotland members and supporters.

Published four times a year by scottishathletics. Copyright©2013 Scottish Athletics Ltd.

www.jogscotland.org.uk

www.twitter.com/jogscotland

www.facebook.com/jogscotty

Warm-Up 06

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Warm-Up: Never too late In each edition of Stride, a guest contributor shares their love of running…

Fraser Murray of North Merchiston jogscotland tells us how his 70-year-old dad inspired him to get fit after a lifetime of unhealthy habits.

My journey to health and fitness began in the spring of 2010 with a phone call from my Dad. While we were chatting he mentioned that the caravan park we often visited on the West Coast of Scotland was holding a small triathlon event at the end of the summer. He said in a fairly light-hearted manner that it might be a good idea for us both to take part, and with that the seed had been planted.

The more I thought about this upcoming event the keener I became, however I knew that I had a lot of preparation to do. A recent hillwalking day out with a friend had made me acutely aware that I was nowhere near as fit as I had been in my younger days. Years of overeating, over drinking and far too little exercise, all combined with long working hours (mostly sitting at a desk) had resulted in my weight peaking at 17½ stone. I was also less healthy than my Dad who was almost 70 years of age. But if my Dad (himself a marathon runner in his younger years) felt able to take part in this event then I was determined to join him.

The time had come to eat less and drink less. This was not as hard as I expected as I really put my mind to it. I quickly learned the simple lesson that “if you don’t buy it, then you don’t eat (or drink) it”. Pretty much overnight I completely cut out all crisps, biscuits and chocolate. I ate only three

healthy meals a day with no snacks in between apart from the occasional piece of fruit. By reducing my alcohol intake I immediately started to feel better and this also helped to kick start the new me.

Next was the exercise. My bike came out of the shed and I really enjoyed getting back to my cycling. I started swimming once or twice a week and this was quite difficult, however as it was such a small part of the event it didn’t really bother me. My biggest challenge by far was to get running, something I had tried on several occasions previously but had never enjoyed. Even very short distances were very hard and left me feeling exhausted and with negative thoughts such as “I am just not a natural runner!”

Somehow, I managed to keep at it and I ran at least three times a week. Gradually my weight reduced and the running became easier. I remember one night (after about seven or eight weeks) getting home and realising that I had been running with thinking about it, and instead of feeling exhausted I felt mentally relaxed and physically energised. By the time of the event I was someone who really enjoyed running. I completed all three sections of the triathlon and my times were respectable for my age group - I really felt great.

No need to stop now I thought, and later

Warm-Up 07

below Members of North Merchiston jogscotland at the Edinburgh One Big Weekend, including Norrie Wood (far left), Jog Leader Nan Mollison (2nd right) and Fraser (far right)

That year I joined my local jogscotland group – North Merchiston in Edinburgh, run

by Nan Mollison. Nan is a fantastic group leader who takes a real interest in all those who come along and provides so much inspiration to runners of all abilities. Being new to running, I enjoyed just being with other runners and found sharing stories to be helpful and motivational. A regular runner in the group is Norrie Wood - Norrie is in his 70s and regularly completes 10Ks in less than 60 minutes. “I want to be like that when I am his age” I found myself thinking.

Anyway, skip forward to May 2013. I am now 50 years old and weigh 12 ½ stone five stone less! I love running and have several 5Ks, 10Ks and a couple of half marathons under my belt. I recently joined Nuffield Health and Fitness and the money I save by buying less alcohol and junk food easily covers any membership costs. There are a few events in my diary (including Tough Mudder) and, for me, this is one of the best ways to remain focused and to maintain the same lifestyle. I can’t always make it along to the jogscotland group as often as I would like, but I go when I can and Nan keeps in touch with encouraging e-mails.

Thanks Dad for the initial challenge, thanks jogscotland and Nan for the support, and thanks to the many other runners I see and meet, all of whom motivate me in one way or another. I look forward to the next stage of my journey and I hope that these words will provide some inspiration to others who may need some encouragement.

News and Events 08

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

News and Events

above Maurice, Lachie and The Bear mascot of the 1970 Commonwealth Games

Great Edinburgh Run Challenge

Run’n’ Park anniversary

jogscotland took second place in the Club Challenge at this year’s Bupa Great Edinburgh Run on July 14. Places are awarded to running groups for the times of their first seven women and seven men to cross the line. Challenge winners were Shettleston Harriers, with an average time of 38:04 among their top runners. jogscotland’s top 14 averaged 51:31, giving us second place. The news means we will receive a number of free places for next year’s event, and we’re talking to race organisers Nova International about distributing these. Congratulations to everyone who took part, whatever your speed!

The Run’n’Park event in Balloch Country Park marked its first anniversary on June 29th. The free, friendly, informal 5K is organised by West Dunbartonshire Jog Leader Maurice Donohue, and takes place at 9.30am every Saturday morning. The anniversary was marked by the arrival of a special guest race starter – Commonwealth Games gold medal winner Lachie Stewart, who lives in nearby Bonhill. Maurice said: “It was great to have Lachie Stewart at the event as it was very fitting that he used to run and train himself within the park, so it really was a sense of inspiration to all the Run’n’Park participants.”

Perth Kilt Run Jog Scotty joined hundreds of runners in Perth on August 10th for the 2013 Perth Kilt Run.

Find out more about the event at www.runnpark.leaguerepublic.com there is no registration, no fee, and no official recording of times – runners just turn up and take part.

With more than 1,300 kilted runners taking part in the race, the official World Record of 1,089 was smashed – though the unofficial record of 1,757, set in Ontario, Canada in June, remained out of reach. Scotty did his bit, taking part in the mascots’ race that kicked off the day, alongside Baxter Bear, Hairy MacKilty and SuperSaint.

Parkathon

above Scotty meets members of Jog Cowdenbeath at Perth Kilt Run

above Strathclyde runners at Parkathon

A dedicated team of runners based around Strathclyde parkrun - including jogscotland's own Moira Nicol and John Smith – marked the longest day this year with a fantastic challenge dubbed The Scottish parkathon. To celebrate and

• The global parkrun movement reached a new milestone on August 3rd, when it hit 40,000 participants. Meanwhile, UK parkrunners can now order their own plastic barcode cards if they’d like something more durable than home-printed ones. Visit www.parkrun-barcode.org.uk for more information.

Run With Richard Double leg amputee and Paralympic Gold medallist Richard Whitehead has been running through Scottish communities on his epic attempt to run a marathon a day, from John O'Groats to Land's End. He hopes to raise £1 million for Sarcoma UK and Scope with the run, which started on August 13th.

Local runners have been invited to join him each day by running a marathon, 10K or 5K along the route.

To find out more, visit www.richardwhiteheadrunsbritain.com, or donate £5 by texting RUN to 70107.

Andrew Murray Ultra runner Dr Andrew Murray has taken part in an epic trip across Kenya to find out what makes its runners so successful – and concluded that effort is everything! After running with, and talking to, some of the world’s greatest middle and long distance runners, he said: “Given Kenyan athletes are so dominant in middle and long-distance running, people assume there is a genetic link to success and that you have to be from Kenya or East Africa to be successful in these events.

“Neither myself nor any experts I spoke to can find any truth in this. There is no secret.

It’s about doing absolutely everything right, coupled with a determination to succeed.”

His trip, made with fellow endurance athlete Donnie Campbell, included runs up and down Kilimanjaro and through national parks and torpical rain forests.

The challenge was also intended to encourage people to donate old pairs of shoes to Running Across Borders, and to raise money for the African Palliative Care Association – see www.justgiving.com/RunningHighAfrica for more information.

News and Events 09

promote the growth of parkrun, they ran all 10 Scottish parkruns in a 24 hour period as “freedom runs”, which means they covered the parkrun route in their own time. Even more impressively, after completing the Strathclyde parkrun route at 2am, they then went back at 9.30am to do it again with everyone else!

jogscotland Dunfermline 10

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

jogscotland Dunfermline 10th anniversary relay

To celebrate ten years of jogscotland Dunfermline something special was required and that was precisely what Christine Garvie (one of the group’s original Jog Leaders) and her husband Jim came up with.

The relay joggers were then ferried to the first changeover point, cheering on their team-mates as they went by. Each changeover was met with terrific support and encouragement from those who had already completed their leg or were awaiting their turn. Even the light drizzle did not dampen spirits as joggers made their way round the route.

They organised a ten mile relay with teams of five joggers each taking on a two mile leg around the city of Dunfermline, taking in ten points of interests along the route, such as the Dunfermline Abbey and Carnegie Hall.

There were also a number of joggers taking on the challenge of the full ten mile route.

Once everyone had finished it was inside for hot filled rolls, a cup of tea and a quiz to test that everyone had paid attention to the historical and social aspects of the route.

Prizes for the winning team and individual joggers, spot prizes for participants and helpers and a lovely slice of cake rounded off the morning perfectly.

The event kicked off with an aerobic warm up, cheered on by the jogscotland mascot Jog Scotty. The Leg One joggers clutching their batons, and the individual joggers, were set off promptly at 10am to the music from Chariots of Fire.

Well done to all those who took part on May 12th and many thanks to the Jog Leaders and helpers who the made the event such fantastic fun!

Smokies 2013

Sue McPhail of jogscotland South Queensferry ran the Arbroath Smokies 10K race for women this year for the second time, and the experience inspired her to write this poem.

If you’d like to find out more about the event, visit www.arbroathfooters.com

1/2 MARATHON

S U N D A Y

Here my peace is: farmland, soft grey sky, Haul the hill in, step by steady step, Feel the thud of feet behind, ahead.

Horses lift their heads, surprised; A bright and trotting ribbon on their road.

Reel the miles in, sweat on skin, Time my pace to match my thudding heart.

The hill must end: we round a bend To see the road lead down, then swoop To meet a gate beside a massive farmhouse.

Children cheer us on, outside The bulk of stone, the browns of nearing spring, In postbox boots and happy zebra tights.

Beyond, the road at last begins to lead us Down the seam of trees, we lean towards our goal.

Marshals offer water, cool and sweet; We turn our feet, renewed, to reach the eight-mile mark.

Arbroath in sight, a promise that the road will level out, And roll us in to meet the finish. Save something for the end, To raise the pace, speed up across the grass And shave the last few seconds from the clock.

5K FUN RUN

9 T H

5K TEAM ATTACK

M A R C H

2 0 1 4

E A R LY B I R D E N T RY AVA I L A B L E

w w w . i n v e r n e s s h a l f m a r a t h o n . c o . u k

Supporting

Ardler Running Ladies 12

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Ardler Running Ladies – Great Women’s 10K Ten members of Ardler Running Ladies took part in the Great Women’s 10K Race along with morethan 7000 other women on Sunday 12 May. The Ardler Running Ladies is a group supported by the Dundee Healthy Living Initiative. We are a mixed abilities group, but each of us running had our own personal challenges and having an event to work towards spurred us on, encouraging each other and training together with the group support makes all the difference.

The atmosphere on the day was terrific with music, pipers and bands playing and local people lining the streets to cheer everyone on, shouting out our names, which were printed on our numbers, and helping us to get through.

Before the race there were a lot of nerves and feelings of excitement and then afterwards lots of pride and smiles and hugs at the end. Each of us admitted at tough points during the race saying to ourselves “Why am I doing this?” or “Never again…”, but it’s all forgotten about when you feel that sense of achievement at the finish line. We all agree that there is something special about being part of a group where there is mutual support and encouragement.

Here are some snapshots of comments from the ladies:

“Feeling tired but good had a really fab day with a great bunch of ladies and Ian…” (Bus driver, photographer and a lot more) “So nervous at the start, but enjoyed it..”

“Absolutely loved it, couldn’t do it without the support of the Ardler Running Ladies..”

“Improved my time, so much fitter than last year, thanks to Ardler Running Ladies..”

“For me, the best bit of the day has been the support of the other group members. We’ve laughed, helped each other overcome nerves and celebrated each other’s achievements…”

“Magic day, great fun, again we all made it, lots of happy smiling face from Ardler Ladies, great to see...”

We also have to give a special mention to Jane and Irene our newest group members who started with our walk jog programme and recently completed their first race at the Running Sisters Monikie 5K. Well done!

by Maria Gracie

The Ardler Running Ladies are a testament to women coming together. There is no pressure to take part in races, but some of us do catch the bug! Everyone gains in different ways from being part of the group; keeping our weight under control, staying healthy and fit; maintaining our mental wellbeing and not to forget the social element. Some of our members go on to become Jog Leaders to help others progress in the group, others move on to running clubs and we know that there are people who have left, but now see running as part of their lives, and we view that as an achievement.

We want more women to join our group and feel the benefits, so please come along we will be happy to see you.

For more information please call the Dundee Healthy Living Initiative on (01382 832863).

You will then be put in contact with a Jog Leader from Ardler Running Ladies.

Race Directory 1 September

22 September

Bella 5k and 10k, Bellahouston Park, Glasgow

Cumbernauld 10k, Cumbernauld

Moray 10k, half marathon and marathon, Elgin

Scottish Gas 5k and 10k Road Races, Granton, Edinburgh

14 September

Roadblock Run 10k, Edinburgh

NTS Crathes half marathon, Crathes Castle, Aberdeenshire

Pitlochry 10k, Pitlochry

Golspie 10k and 3k Fun Run, Golspie

29 September

15 September

Linlithgow 10k and Fun Run, Linlithgow

City of Stirling 10k Road Race and 2k Fun Run, Stirling

5 October

Turbine 10, (10k and 4k Fun Run/Walk), Baillie Wind Farm, Shebster, Thurso Kilmacolm 10k and half marathon, Kilmacolm

Dyke 10k, Dyke, Forres

Linda Norgrove Valtos Peninsula 10k, Uig, Isle of Lewis Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run 10k and half marathon, Glasgow Strathcarron Hospice 10k, Denny Atlantis Leisure half marathon, Oban

There’s an event for everyone, go to www.jogscotland.org.uk/events for full details.

Race Directory 13

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Race Directory 14

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Race Directory cont’d 12 October Cowalfest 10k and 5k Fun Run, Dunoon 13 October Aviemore 10k, half marathon and Mile Fun Run, Aviemore Giffordtown 5k Road Race,

By Ladybank, Fife 27 October Jedburgh 10k and half marathon, Jedburgh 3 November Winter Warmer 5k and 10k, Holyrood Park, Edinburgh Run with the Wind 10k, Whitelee Wind Farm, Strathaven 9 November

Free parkrun events every Saturday at 9.30am at: Cramond, Edinburgh Strathclyde Park, Lanarkshire Pollok Park, Glasgow Tollcross Park, Glasgow Callendar Park, Falkirk Eglinton Country Park, Irvine Beach Esplanade, Aberdeen Bught Park, Inverness Craigtoun Country Park, St Andrews Camperdown Park, Dundee And

Glen Clova half marathon, Glen Clova Hotel, Angus

Park’n’Run, Balloch

17 November

www.parkrun.org.uk

Fraserburgh half marathon, Fraserburgh There’s an event for everyone, go to www.jogscotland.org.uk/events for full details.

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Inspiration – Margaret Wright Margaret Wright once struggled to squeeze in to size 28 clothes and hid her unhappiness as she put herself through a series of yo-yo diets.

But two-and-a-half years ago she plucked up the courage to join jogscotland Chryston. She is now training for her second marathon, and – most importantly – is much happier and healthier.

Here she tells us her story in her own words.

I had been morbidly obese all of my life, aged 10 weighed 10 stones, aged 11, 11 stones, at 12 I was 12 stones. And so the weight piled on, a stone a year until the age of 16. Then the yoyoing began. Lost a bit, gained it back plus some. There lies a long story of what I now can confirm was an adult life of misery.

I was always the big girl with the big smile that was hiding how I really felt inside. I was miserable with low self esteem, etc, getting to the point at 21 and a half stone, where it was safer to go to work, come home, sit on the couch with trips to the kitchen for junk food and wine. Then to bed, and so the routine went.

At Christmas 2008 I went to a family get-together and had nothing to wear that fitted - and I mean NOTHING. I put on size 28 clothes and I was bursting out of the seams. I had to have the usual photo taken, and that day was the last straw – I decided there and then life was going to change.

That was easier said than done. I struggled for the next year and a half with a popular national diet plan, where you can eat or drink anything as long as it is within the points limit: Being that size meant a lot of points. I did OK for a bit, then struggled to keep on track. Still determined, I looked into other options.

In August 2010, with the agreement of my GP and after some blood tests, and with a BMI of 50 at that point, I started The Cambridge weight loss plan. The weight came off at a fabulous rate, and apart from initially getting used to the plan, I started feeling great.

Inspiration 16

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Inspiration continued…

above Margaret at her heaviest

above Margaret with members of jogscotland Chryston

Within five months I was feeling that I wanted to get active. I listened to people at work and decided to hide up at the back of a very large Zumba class, and really enjoyed it. I joined North Lanarkshire sports centres and tried a few keep fit classes, trying to find what I enjoyed.

One Saturday in March 2011 went to a Zumba class and saw an advert for Jog Scotland Chryston, starting a new block on 22nd March - which was my Dad's 81st birthday. So off I went, never having never even run for a bus. I felt totally freaked with all the running tights and hi-vis vests etc – I just wanted to about turn and run away. I am so, so glad I didn't. The support and camaraderie is second to none - what a great bunch of people.

In February 2012, my Dad had major heart surgery, which he recovered very well from. I decided to run my first half marathon at Alloa to raise funds for British Heart Foundation. That kept me going to get round the distance. What an experience that was - I just felt on top of the world, and felt I could now do anything I set my heart to.

Our Jog Scotland Chryston group went to Campbeltown for the Mull of Kintyre Half, and what a weekend that was, we just had a laugh from the start to the finish. Truly a great bunch of people.

Over the summer of 2012, I was looking forward to my 50th Birthday in January 2013 and wondered how I would celebrate it. I knew that I wanted it to include running in some form: a marathon. “That’s it,” I thought: “I’m going to run a marathon to celebrate a healthy half century”.

So one Saturday morning over a coffee after Falkirk parkrun, I said to my friends Helen and John Munro, that I was going to run a marathon - one only - so it had to be a good one. They told me of a few in Europe early in 2013. The earlier the better as I wanted it as close to my birthday as possible. So Barcelona it was going to be. My husband Alastair was going to run it with me, so our Hal Higdon Novice 2 training plan started on 12th November 2012. We followed the plan almost to the letter and ran all of our training runs out doors in snow, wind, ice, and rain. We really had a great winter of running.

Now I did say I was going to do one only. But during the training I realised I enjoyed the long slow runs. So even before Barcelona was ran, I was secretly thinking in my head where next – but I wanted to see if we could actually go the distance first.

Inspiration 17 above Running the Edinburgh One Big Weekend with friend Avril McKinney and after the event with other members of jogscotland Chryston

What an experience in March this year. The whole weekend was just so special. I met girls from Scotland I had been introduced to on a facebook group, I had photos taken with runners from Argentina, Holland and America. The marathon experience was just fantastic. It was an extremely well organised race which made for a great first marathon experience.

So where next? It had to be Loch Ness. We love that part of Scotland, so it just makes sense, and 29th September this year will be marathon number two.

I was asked to take part in the Kintyre Way Ultra Relay this year, which was something different again, and I was up for a new challenge. I ran a very rocky, pebbly, slippery 9.5 miles along a beach.

That gave me a bit of a taster and would really like to enter D33 (33 miles) next year.

Over the last two years I have met so many new friends of all running abilities. Running has given me a new life I’ve never had before. I have gone from sitting on the couch, self esteem too low to make friends, to meeting up with others both to run and to socialise.

At the start of 2013 I really began to think how far I’d come in less than 2 years with jogscotland. All of the Jog Leaders at Chryston are extremely supportive and have an all-inclusive attitude to new runners. It doesn’t matter what your level is when you walk through that door, they will help to encourage you to get to where you want to be.

I decided I had got so much from jogscotland that now it was time for me to give something back. I decided to do the Jog Leaders Course and started Jog Leading in June. I just love encouraging new runners, and I am looking forward to seeing the new people in our group reach their own running goals.

One Big Weekend 18

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Hundreds of runners enjoyed fabulous weather on August 3rd and 4th to take part in the first ever jogscotland One Big Weekend running festival. Over a packed two days, 5K challenges were held in Aberdeen, Perth, Edinburgh and Glasgow, with jogscotland members and others coming together to celebrate our love of fitness and friendship.

Ten-year-old Mia Keogh, who was first in the junior race, said afterwards: “I just love running!”

ABERDEEN

Trainee IT Support Technician Lee Wright, who organised the team, said: “The race was a first for many of the participants and it provided a great opportunity for our staff to mix outside work, increase their fitness and know they were doing their bit for an excellent cause. Many of the participants are now looking for their next challenge!”

The action kicked off in glorious sunshine on Saturday morning on the Beach Esplanade in Aberdeen, with hundreds of runnners, ranging from joggers trying their first ever 5K, to more experienced racers. below left Craig Stirrat, who was taking part in a jogscotland 5K for the fifth year running

Also taking part were a team from Plexus Ocean Systems Ltd (pictured above).

Their Healthy Working Lives group are currently working to try and raise £5,000 for the charity Friends of the Special Nursery, the charity which supports Aberdeen’s neo-natal unit. A team of 16 runners signed up for One Big Weekend, and set a target of £1000 – by the time of the event, they had actually doubled that!

On Saturday evening the action moved to North Inch in Perth – a run which showed just what a family event One Big Weekend is. While young Rose Ryan won the Junior Race, her dad Duncan came second in the 5K, just behind 16-year-old Kierr Miller, who previously coached Rose! Her brother and sister Gregor and Iris also took part.

Duncan said: “This was a great family event and so well organised. I am a keen runner and take the kids to many races so this was their chance to take part and shine. Which they did!”

Kierr added: “This is my first ever race win and to win on home soil makes it even more special. I’m so happy! I’m so pleased Rose won the Junior race as I’ve coached her before as part of my voluntary work towards my Gold Duke of Edinburgh”.

One Big Weekend 19

PERTH

One Big Weekend 20

EDINBURGH With a start line view of the Castle and a route through the stunning Botanic Garden, joggers enjoyed a real treat of a 5K in Edinburgh. Spanish friends Andres Leon Santos and Andres Lices achieved a 1-2 to win the race, but there were winners throughout the pack as many took part in their first-ever 5K and enjoyed the great atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.

Sr. Lices, who had travelled to Edinburgh to visit his friend, typified the camaraderie of the day when he said: “I can’t believe we came 1st and 2nd! This has made this stay extra special. I had intended to cross the line ahead of him but that wasn’t meant to be today - but we’re still friends!”.

There was also another impressive family effort, with places 1 and 2 in the Junior race taken by Lewis Calder, 7, ahead of his brother Struan, 8 - their sister Lara,

above Andres Leon Santos and Andres Lices with their trophies

was also in the race. Their mother Julie said: "They've got the running bug! It was lovely for the family to do something together. Running is such a great sport and today's weather in Edinburgh really helped."

Perhaps our farthest-flung OBWers were Americans Richard and Barbara Nelson (pictured below, top left). Originally from Florida, they currently live in Spain, and were visiting Edinburgh on holiday.

Barbara said: "I came to Edinburgh on an ancestry tour last year and I wanted my husband to come and visit - we're runners, so we looked to see if there was a run, and we were delighted to see this!"

Another runner who enjoyed her day was Lianne Swadel, who said: "I really enjoyed it - it's beautiful to get a chance to run through the gardens, I really enjoyed the lovely route - it's nice and green and the smells going round the Botanics were great too! I would recommend anybody to give it a go.”

The weekend's finale at Bellahouston Park saw Shazad Hakeem, 34, from Rutherglen, race to the finish line first.

He said: “I signed up for the Gold jogscotland membership as I wanted to enter this race and it was included as part of the package. I didn’t expect to win as I was up against some very good runners and I came fourth last year. It’s an amazing feeling crossing the line first I’m buzzing”.

The first woman to cross the finish line, and in third place overall was Kirsty Wooff, 22, who commented: “I entered with my dad as a bit of fun. We wanted to get fit and set ourselves a target and this event looked like the perfect opportunity to do both. I am very proud of myself”.

Margaret Wright of Chryston jogscotland (see page 15) won places at the event when she responded to an appeal on facebook for people who would share their story in the media and help us to inspire others to take part.

She took the opportunity to bring along her friend April McKinney, who was running her first 5k.

Also enjoying the day was Morgan Hetherington, who ran the 5k for Make a Wish Foundation. Waiting for her at the finish line, her mum Julie said “I am so proud of her. I’m hoping to get a picture of her but I’ll probably be in tears when she gets here.” below Julie and Morgan Hetherington at the finish line

One Big Weekend 21

GLASGOW

Race Review 22

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Race Review – The 100th Inverness parkrun The sun shone, the buzz was amazing, and the pipes were playing as 207 parkrunners set off for 3 laps of the Bught Park in Inverness on Saturday 27th July, the 100th Inverness parkrun! The organisers were hoping that 100 would turn up – the biggest previous number of runners was 86 and the average 57 - so the turnout was massive!!

In all, 32 jogscotland members took part– there would have been more, but a number were on holiday and couldn’t be there. Two youngsters, Sergio Thomson (7) and Hope Murray (6) whose parents took part, joined our jogscotland team. Nine jogscotland members achieved PBs – Stephen Hendry, Ewan Huc, Stewart Chalmers, Val Gage, Diana Mitchell, Susan Henderson, Elaine Grant, Linda O’Malley and Sergio Thomson.

I had my first experience of being an official ‘pacer’ – fortunately for a slow pace!

I jogged with a young woman who had just begun to jog in the past few weeks. She had never kept going for more than one mile and was really quite emotional when she reached the finishing funnel! I think I have persuaded her to join jogscotland!

Parkruns are great and a wonderful opportunity for jogscotland members to run in a free timed 5k event. After registering once, all you do is turn up on a Saturday at your nearest parkrun for a 9.30am start. Age is no barrier – the oldest runner on Saturday in Inverness was in the 75-80 category and the youngest six! The fastest time was 16.29 and the last runner reached the finishing funnel in 53.56 minutes. The piper was still playing when she came in to rapturous applause!

There was a celebratory cake in the Floral Hall cafe afterwards where old and young, fast and slow enjoyed each other’s company. Roll on event 200.....

by Joan Munro

CullodenRun 17.46k & The Culloden 10K

The Most Historic Run in Scotland - for Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland

Based at the historic National Trust for Scotland Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre

Sunday October 27th 2013

We are Scotland’s Health Charity events@chss.org.uk

0300 1212 777 www.thecullodenrun.com www.chss.org.uk/fundraising Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland and CHSS are operating names of The Chest, Heart & Stroke Association Scotland, a registered Scottish Charity Registration No. SC018761.

Registered in Scotland as a company limited by guarantee No SC129114

Mini Strides 24

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Mini Strides for Junior jogscotties Given the sack!

Scotty was well and truly given the sack on June 29 when he lined up with Snappy the dragon, Bluebell the cow, Cobblers the clown, Archie the hippo and Jock the miner to take part in the first ever Scottish Coal Carrying championships Mascot Race.

The mascots had to carry a sack filled with polystyrene ’coals’ over a 1K uphill course.

This was the hardest challenge Jog Scotty had ever faced and although he didn’t finish first (actually, he finished last, but we all know it’s the taking part that counts) he did a great job and made it to the end still holding his coal sack, unlike some others in the race, who dropped their coal sack and finished without it!

The mascot race was followed by junior races where children ran the distance carrying a 10kg sack of coal, the ladies race where competitors carried 25kg and the men’s race with sacks weighing 50kg.

The race even got a mention in the Scottish Parliament, where it was praised for being “a link to the rich coal mining heritage of the village”!

Walking, cycling, scooting and skating The vast majority of Scottish school children travel to school actively or sustainably, a new study has found.

The “Hands Up Scotland 2012” survey found that two thirds of children go to school on foot, by bicycle, on a scooter, by skates or by bus.

It means the Scotland’s youngsters are not just helping to cut emissions from petrol – they’re making themselves healthier and fitter as part of their every day routine.

Sustrans Scotland National Director, John Lauder, said: “We are pleased to report that half of all school children surveyed get to school under their own steam – by walking, cycling, scooting or skating. This is an extremely heartening statistic. In particular, scooting is very much in vogue at present and has become an increasingly popular method of travel.

“We can also report that there has been an increase in the number of children who ‘park and stride’ to school – in other words they are driven part of the way to school and walk the rest with their parent/guardian.

This is an optimistic indicator that parents are now considering the need for them and their children to incorporate active travel into their daily routines.”

You can find out more about the Hands Up Scotland survey at www.sustrans.org.uk/hands-scotlandsurvey-2012

Mini Strides 25

Jog Scotty visits Midlothian

TJ, a P7 pupil at Paradykes Primary School in Loanhead said “I enjoyed it as it was a really hard competition as there were so many schools taking part.”

On a blisteringly hot June day, Midlothian Active Schools Team held the final two Inter Schools events of this academic year.

Rachael, P6 at Paradykes said “I enjoyed it particularly because of the really good facilities and it was sunny.”

The Primary Athletics Championships saw large schools competing in the morning, while the small schools competed in the afternoon.

Provost Joe Wallace from Midlothian Council was able to take time out from his very busy schedule to attend for a short time in the morning, returning in the afternoon to present the trophy.

To the delight of the children who attended in the afternoon, we also had impromptu visits from Jog Scotty, as well as MacBear, the Midlothian Sport & Leisure mascot.

Some great times and distances were achieved by pupils, who varied in age from P5-P7.

Robbie from Newtongrange Primary School said "I think it was an amazing experience.

There were so many schools competing and we met lots of different people. The tug of war was challenging but we overcame it."

Ellie, also from Newtongrange said: “We trained really hard for this year and we did better this year. I had a load of fun but now I'm shattered."

The three top teams in the morning were: 1st Woodburn Primary School 2nd Mauricewood Primary School 3rd Paradykes Primary School The three top teams in the afternoon were: 1st Tynewater Primary School 2nd St. Andrew’s Primary School 3rd St. Luke’s Primary School

Scottish Slimmers 26

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

I got fit for my bridesmaid’s dress!

Name: Elaine Hamilton Occupation: Project Manager Height: 5’5” Class Manager: Jayne Taylor

Before Weight: 14 stone 2lb Dress Size: 18

Now Weight: 10 stone 7lb Dress Size: 10/12 3 stone 9lb lighter

Buying a pair of size 18 trousers for work, Elaine Hamilton, 36, hated shopping. “I had been trying to get fitter and lose weight for years, but always gave up and put the weight back on,” recalls Elaine from Glasgow, who has now lost almost 4 stone thanks to Scottish Slimmers and her new love of exercise!

When Elaine’s friend asked her to be a bridesmaid, Elaine finally had a reason to slim down for good. “My friend had bought me a fabulous dress in a size 16, but it just didn’t come near me.

I knew I had to lose weight now, or I would regret it forever”, she says.

“After getting married in 2010 my husband and I had enjoyed takeaways with wine and I had got into the habit of eating too many sweet treats,” says Elaine.

To look fabulous in the bridesmaid’s dress, Elaine also decided she wanted to tone up as well, “I had tried swimming before, but got bored so it never helped,” explains Elaine who decided to start jogging. “As the weight came off, I began to feel fitter and even started to enjoy exercising!” she adds.

“Four weeks before the wedding, I hit my target weight,” says Elaine, smiling, “and in the end my dress had to be taken in to a size 12!

“I’m never going back to how unhealthy I used to be.

I love being slim, fitter and healthier – and it’s going to stay that way!”

275-300g ciabatta loaf 4 tbsp low-fat pasta sauce 125g ball of half-fat mozzarella, sliced thinly 180-200g tin tuna in brine, drained 6 cherry tomatoes, halved 4 tsp capers 4 tsp olive oil black pepper no-Check salad to serve

Serves four 350 calories per portion 14 checks per portion 12 fat grams per person

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

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Scottish Slimmers 27

Ingredients

Perfect Pizza

Great Scottish Run 28

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Race Preview –

Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run 5 & 6 October 2013 will be another big year for the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run, as thousands of Glaswegians and runners from further afield take to the streets in Scotland’s largest city for their 10k, half marathon or junior and family events on 5 and 6 October.

Last year’s Olympic momentum led to an incredible 24,000 runners of all ages and abilities signing up for their chosen distance. This year, the introduction of live BBC coverage will add an extra incentive for runners to be a ‘star for the day’.

Runners can expect a fantastic atmosphere along a spectator-lined course in the city centre, for a rousing boost towards the finish line. Later in the day the main thoroughfares and the parkland stages attract large crowds as people look out for their loved ones and enjoy the entertainment on the day.

The brand new Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run courses will take runners along some of Glasgow’s best known streets and past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, iconic buildings and inspirational Commonwealth Games venues. Starting at George Square in the heart of Glasgow, runners taking on the half marathon distance will cross the Kingston Bridge on their way to the south of the city.

Some of the world’s best athletes and thousands of club, charity and fun runners

will get a flavour of what is coming to Glasgow in 2014, with the half marathon course passing no fewer than six Commonwealth Games venues and the 10k route including five.

As runners take on their challenge, TV audiences around the world will see some amazing pictures of the redeveloped Clyde Waterfront, before passing under the McLennan Arch to enter Glasgow Green and reach the tree-lined finish straight in the shadow of Nelson’s Monument.

There is still time to enter and prepare for making it around in a time you can be proud of.

If you want to get the whole family involved, take a look at Super Saturday and you’ll find there’s a distance for everyone.

From 0-5 years in the Toddler Dash, 3-8 in the Bank of Scotland Mini Great Scottish Run, 9-15 in the Bank of Scotland Junior Great Scottish Run and, finally one for all the family, the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run Family Mile.

Super Saturday will take place in and around George Square, which is the start line for the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run on the Sunday. There will be loads to see and do with ‘come and try it’ sports as well as entertainment throughout the day.

It's never too early to start and you're never too old to have fun!

Entries are open at www.greatscottishrun.com

Tiree 29

SCOTLAND’S BIGGEST WEEKEND OF RUNNING

IVE L E M I T BBC T S FIR ON

Fantastic 50 30

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Fantastic 50 There's nothing like a big birthday to inspire you to reach new goals, and reaching half a century is certainly worth celebrating. Here we meet two jogscotties who are marking their approaching 50th birthdays with exceptional sporting challenges.

No half measures for Maurice Maurice Donohue, Jog Leader for West Dunbartonshire jogscotland, turns 50 in January 2014, and decided to celebrate by running 50 half marathons during 2013.

He hopes his challenge will inspire others, and is raising money and awareness for the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH).

Maurice told Stride: “This is a personal challenge for myself - 50 Half Marathons to be completed during 2013 felt like a good goal to aim for, but more importantly, hopefully I can encourage and inspire men, women and children to achieve their own personal goals.

“With 2014 and the Commonwealth Games on the horizon, what better time to try and get everyone active?”

Maurice hopes to raise £1000 for SAMH by the end of the year, and is well on his way, with nearly £700 already pledged. You can donate at www.justgiving.com/ WDJOGSTERRUNNER The runs might all have been the same length, but they’ve been very different, he says: "At the start of the year, the first six runs were completed in freezing temperatures which was hard but the motivation was there as my challenge was made public for all to see. The body so far has held up well to the task and currently my half marathon runs are completed around the 1h50 mark.

"Over the last seven months I have had quite a few runners join me in some of the runs, which again helps with the motivation to complete the challenge. Finally going from one extreme to another, the very warm weather we have been receiving has also added to the difficulty of the challenge.

"My favourite half marathon that I have completed so far would be the Balloch to Clydebank Half Marathon, as it is my local event and it was good to get so much support from members of the public and from the all the running clubs.

"The half marathon which stands out as the most difficult was the Peterhead Half Marathon, with very warm weather and a route that had a few hills to conquer.

Despite being a hard course, the hospitality, organisation and kindness shown to me by the people in Peterhead was superb - a special mention to Stephen Bruce, event organiser and Chairperson of Peterhead jogscotland, for his support and generosity.”

• Run with Mo! Maurice is to host two "unofficial" training runs in Dumbarton and hopes as many people as possible will join him. You can opt for half marathon or 10K distances on September 22 and November 3 – visit wdjogscot.leaguerepublic.com for details.

SAMH operates a Mental Health Information Service from Monday to Friday from 2pm-4pm.

Staff and volunteers can answer general mental health enquiries, advise you on your rights and signpost you to local services – see www.samh.org.uk or call 0800 917 3466.

Super Susan’s half century Susan Stewart of JogPeebles is also approaching her 50th birthday with an impressive series of challenges.

She and her husband Alan are tackling 50 different sporting events in the approach to her birthday.

As well as marking Susan’s 50th, the couple also hope that their efforts will help persuade more people to sign the donor register, after Alan fell ill with degenerative kidney disease eight years ago. He spent time on dialysis, but three years ago received a kidney donated by his sister Kathleen - and is now in good health.

Earlier this year, Susan spoke to the Scottish Sun about their experiences. She said the benefits of Alan’s transplant had been instant: "It was like flicking on a switch. Now he's got his life back again, and, because we both know how important transplants are, we decided to celebrate our 50th birthdays with 50 sporting events.

After the Edinburgh event, Alan said: “It was great fun, I loved it, really, really enjoyed it. Fantastic route, the company was great and organ donation got promoted, which is one of our aims.”

Susan added: “Alan would not be here today if it wasn't for his transplant. Every day three people die while waiting for a transplant.

That’s a lot of preventable deaths and I’m proud to run to raise awareness of organ donation so more people sign up for the register.”

The couple run with Transplant Ambassador T-shirts, with a link to the organ donation register printed on the back, and Susan said: “It’s not about raising money for research. It’s about reminding people to sign up and save a life, and the more people who get the message, the better.

Alan and I both know the huge difference an organ transplant makes.

“We’ve both got our lives back and we’re eternally grateful to be able to do this.”

Sign the donor register "Alan was 50 in February but I'm not 50 until July next year, so we've a busy time ahead.

"We're not particularly competitive or sporty. We just aim for a personal best, and keep plodding away."

So far their challenges have included a charity skinny dip in East Lothian, the Hampden Kilt Walk from Glasgow to Loch Lomond – and the jogscotland One Big Weekend, where they took part in all four events! (pictured below)

Around 40 per cent of people living in Scotland have signed the NHS Organ Donor Register – which means there are many of us who are still not on the list, and there is a serious shortage of donor organs.

Kidneys were the first organ that doctors managed to successfully transplant, but as advances have been made they can also transfer the heart, liver, lungs, pancreas and small bowel, as well as tissue such as eyes, heart valves, skin, bone and tendons.

It’s worth noting that there is no cut-off age for donation, and organs have been successfully transplanted from donors in their 70s and 80s – the decision to use organs is based on strict medical criteria, not age.

To find out more, or sign up, visit www.organdonationscotland.org or call 0300 123 2323.

In shorts…men’s running 32

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

In Shorts… jogscotland and top running magazines Men’s Running and Women’s Running have teamed up to deliver the latest headlines, tips and gossip straight from their pages to the pages of Stride.

Men’s Shorts Check out the new issue of Men’s Running magazine, in all good stores and retailers nationwide.

Don’t miss the new issue of Men’s Running, the magazine that will improve your running, whether you’re a complete beginner or an expert.

If you want to be a better runner, you need to think about the 23 hours a day when you’re not running as much as the one hour when you are. Making small, easy to implement changes to your lifestyle – what elite athletes call ‘marginal gains’ – will add up to a healthier, happier, fitter and faster you. Coaching Editor Nick Anderson shares the tiny things the professionals do and how you can adapt them to fit your lifestyle.

Nick also explains how keeping a running diary can hugely improve the effectiveness of your training. As Nick says, “If you don’t record things, you’ll never know what led to that run being your best yet”. Even if you already keep a training log, Nick’s guide will ensure you are making the most of yours and recording the detail that will make all the difference to your performance, without wasting time on anything you don’t need.

Men’s Running Order your FREE copy today

Helping you improve your running

If you think you could benefit from joining a running club, but have never found the right one for you, our guide to alternative running clubs could be just what you’re looking for. Most runners who have joined clubs will tell you it’s the best thing they ever did, and took their running to the next level, so don’t battle on alone when you could have the support of a likeminded community.

We also have an indispensible guide to finding your ideal running weight. As endurance writer and author Matt Fitzgerald says, “A runner who weighs 160lbs has to muster approximately 6.5 per cent more energy to run at the same pace as a runner weighing 150lbs”. It’s not all about a quest to be as light as possible, however, so we have examined the best way to reach and maintain your own perfect running weight.

We also have the usual mix of tips on training and nutrition, plus the lowdown on the latest kit, including the fastest shoe you’ll find for under £60.

Keep up with all the latest by liking us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ mensrunningmagazineuk

The UK’s first running magazine just for men.

Whether it’s racing, losing weight, getting fit, looking for new gear and gadgets or reading the most eye-popping, inspirational stories from the world of running, we take pride in offering you all this and more in the only magazine dedicated to running men everywhere.

Try Men’s Running totally FREE. Text ‘Runner’ to 60300 to claim your FREE issue today Or call 0845 286 3067 & quote ‘Runner’

runners so that you can ease yourself in gently and also learn how to beat off-road fear and learn to love trail running.

Check out the new issue of Women’s Running magazine, in all good stores and retailers nationwide.

If you like the idea of getting a personal best at a race in the near future, find out where the ten best races are for PB potential and what makes them so fast and runner-friendly.

The magazine features an exclusive interview with nurse Donna Sharland who works in the cancer wing of a hospital and decided to take up running and complete the New York Marathon this November. Find out how Donna has gone from a complete beginner who convinced herself that she would ‘never be able to run’ to a confident runner who ‘has the bug’ and has already decided to do another marathon after New York. For her, running is ‘me time’.

Tackling hills can be a daunting task for the best of us but there are ways to make it easier and it’s also a valuable part of your training, says WR Coaching Editor Phoebe Thomas. Find out how to tackle them and use them to your advantage and you’ll soon find yourself feeling fitter and stronger.

Also find out in the issue how busy mum of two and speedy marathon runner Nell McAndrew got on in the Women’s Running magazine 10K race in Nottingham recently.

Nell was aiming for a 10K personal best and despite the long drive from London to Nottingham, arrived ready and raring to go.

Nell talks about motherhood and how important it is to make time for yourself when you want to run. ‘Mind you, I still feel guilty going out for a short run and leaving my baby at home with my mum’, she told the WR team.

Signed up for an autumn half marathon and starting to panic? Stay calm and enjoy your 13.1 mile journey with our lastminute half marathon training and race day tips which will get you to the start line raring to go.

Mind over matter is key here, so read our easy tips to boost your confidence.

Finally, if you’ve returned from holiday slightly heavier than you went and you’d like to get back to your race-fit weight, then find out how to lose half a stone in four weeks and get back to your previous form.

All this and more in the UK’s first running magazine just for women. Keep in touch with us at Women’s Running by visiting us online or on Facebook. Go to our website at www.womensrunninguk.co.uk

If you would like to take up trail running, find out where the best trails are for new

The UK’s first running magazine just for women.

Women's Running provides practical information and inspiring stories to help you achieve your running goals - whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner. Every issue of Women's Running has all the expert advice and information you need on how to improve your running plus detailed features on how to lose weight, tone up, improve your health and take care of your body.

Try Women’s Running totally FREE. Text ‘Runner’ to 60300 to claim your FREE issue today Or call 0845 286 3067 & quote ‘Runner’

Women’s Running Order your FREE copy today

Helpful. Friendly.

Accessible

In shorts…women’s running 33

Women’s Shorts

Cross Training 34

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Cross Training - Aquafit I’ve been very lucky and managed to avoid running injuries but I know a lot of runners rely on using the swimming pool when they are advised not to run. I thought I’d find out what kind of workout I could get from a pool session and signed up for ‘aquafit’.

I wasn’t too sure what I was letting myself in for but the fact that some of the classes were full and even had a waiting list suggested that this was a popular choice.

The class was advertised as “A safe and effective workout using the resistance that water creates. Equipment is used to increase intensity – suitable for all ages and fitness levels.”

I was introduced to Karen, the instructor who advised me that the session would be

by Ann Davidson

as demanding or easy as I wanted it to be.

I had a quick swim and then a large part of the pool was roped off for the class. The pool depth had been set to 1.2-1.3 metres meaning even someone as short as me (1.5 metres) could stand in the water and do the exercises without becoming submerged.

That was helpful.

We started with some gentle jogging on the spot, making sure we landed on our feet, not our toes. Karen then explained and demonstrated each exercise she wanted us to do. The acoustics of a swimming pool aren’t great and I felt sorry for her having to shout to make herself heard above our splashing and the poolside music. Some of the exercises were very familiar from my jogscotland session warm ups – gentle jogging, high knees, heel flicks. However I found I had to concentrate not just on doing the various exercises but avoiding drifting into the other people in the class, especially during exercises that involved moving from side to side or backwards as well as forwards. Being weightless in the water added a whole new dimension to the experience.

Cross Training 35

We then moved into a series of exercises using a noodle – a long foam tube. For these exercises we had to keep our feet off the floor so we were floating as we did squats, star jumps, ‘cycling’ and swimming type moves. I managed most of the exercises except one that involved holding the noodle down with my feet. I was just too buoyant and kept being tipped over as the noodle floated upwards. When I spoke to Karen about this afterwards I discovered that it was because of my (lack of) height. Too much of me was submerged and therefore weightless so I couldn’t exert enough force on the noodle. It was fun though!

We passed the noodles back to the poolside and finished the session with some gentle stretching exercises – similar to the ones we do at the end of jogscotland sessions.

After the class I had a quick chat with Karen. She explained that some of the aquafit classes used dumbbells as well as the noodles we had worked with. The equipment makes the exercises more effective but everything is at the pace you choose. The faster you work and the bigger

the moves you make, the harder the workout.

I was aware that working in water would increase resistance, making me work a bit harder and that the support of the water would reduce the impact. What I hadn’t anticipated was just how effective the exercises were as a core stability workout. I could really feel the effects the next day.

Unfortunately I wasn’t able to have a chat with anyone after the class as the fire alarm went off just as I was about to do that! I was really impressed with the response of the staff – there was no panic but they got everyone out of the centre very quickly and made sure all the swimmers leaving the pool were given a foil blanket so they could keep warm. The staff continued to make sure everyone was fine until the Fire and Rescue Service confirmed it was OK to go back into the building. By then it was time for me to collect my camera, thank the staff and head back to the jogscotland office.

Special thanks to the manager and staff at Drumbrae Leisure Centre and to the Aquafit instructor Karen.

Awards 36

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

jogscotland Awards 2013 We think that everyone involved with jogscotland deserves an award just for pulling on their trainers and taking part, but once a year we like to make a special fuss over some of the people who particularly deserve it.

jogscotland Jog Leader of the Year

This year’s jogscotland awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner in Glasgow’s Marriot Hotel on Saturday 26th October, but first we need your nominations.

Behind every jogscotland session are the Jog Leaders. They take the time to get to know their members, warm us up, cool us down, plan routes, celebrate our achievements – without them, jogscotland wouldn’t exist.

If you think your Jog Leader deserves special recognition, let us know by nominating them for this award. They could be an experienced Leader with many years of service to the group behind them, a recent addition to an established team, or a newcomer who has really made a difference to an area where there was once no jogscotland.

Awards will be presented in three categories:

jogscotland Jog Group of the Year

jogscotland Achiever of the Year Is there someone in your group who has really achieved a lot in the past year? Our Achiever of the Year award won’t necessarily go to the fastest or the fittest member of jogscotland, but to someone who has worked hard to improve at their own level. Their achievements might be related to fitness, or they might be someone who has really grown in confidence, or helped others on their own journey.

There is a huge variety of jog groups across the country: City pavement pounders, Highland & Island trail trotters; from the largest to the smallest, every group is unique, thanks to the people who turn out every week to take part.

Some excel at having fun, encouraging members and welcoming new members; some do great work for their wider community; some raise money for charity. Whatever the reason, if you think your jog group deserves recognition, let us know about it! You don’t need to be a Jog Leader to nominate your group – anyone can do it.

HOW TO NOMINATE: Nominations open on Monday 26 August.

All current jogscotland members and Jog Leaders can be nominated for awards.

To make a nomination, fill out and return the form at www.jogscotland.org.uk by Sunday 29 September 2013.

Awards 37

To inspire you as you prepare your nominations, take a look at last year’s winners. jogscotland Leader of the Year was Mike Dignan, of Muir of Ord jogscotland / Inverness Leisure jogscotland.

In a relatively short time, Debbie went from the beginners’ group at Glasgow FrontRunners to completing the Great Scottish Run Half Marathon. In that time, she had also trained as a Jog Leader and become a role model and ambassador for the club, which was set up for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender, or LGBT, runners. Having been a complete beginner herself very recently, the empathy and care she offers beginner runners was described as a “priceless asset” to the club. jogscotland Group of the Year was West Dunbartonshire jogscotland

Mike was a member of Muir of Ord jogscotland who became a Jog Leader because he wanted to repay some of the encouragement he had received.

His enthusiasm helped attract many new beginners and established runners, and he then decided to plug a gap in his home town, and set up Inverness Leisure jogscotland, which attracted an incredible 90 members to its first session.

Mike was praised by members as “hardworking, dedicated and inspirational”. jogscotland Achiever of the Year was Debbie Hill of Glasgow FrontRunners

The group had been in existence for 10 years, with some of the founder members still turning up every week. It included three septuagenarians, who regularly compete in 5K, 10K and half marathons, and inspire fellow members.

People were encouraged to aim for their own personal goals and one member described “an abundance of support at every level”. Each year, the group holds its own West Dunbartonshire Awards Night to celebrate the achievements of members. Since the awards night was begun it has raised £5000 for the Childrens’ Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS).

Peterhead 38

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Race Review: Peterhead Running Festival - half marathon This year’s Peterhead Running Festival saw hundreds of runners and supporters gather at Catto Park on June 30.

The Festival is organised by Peterhead jogscotland, with Chairman Stephen Bruce at the helm and huge amounts of support offered by the group’s Jog Leaders.

As well as the running, there were charity stalls and entertainment for the non-runners, and more than £9000 was raised between 15 good causes and charities. The day also includes the popular Shell-sponsored junior fun runs for primary school pupils.

Ann Davidson went along to take part in the half marathon: I knew this was going to be a bit different from other half marathons when we started running the wrong way around the track!

Once we left the track we joined a cycle path and started the climb out of

Peterhead. The lack of even the slightest breeze on the sheltered cycle path made the hot sun feel even more intense.

With the support of vigilant marshals we safely crossed a couple of major roads and made our way uphill to the first water station around three miles into the race - a very welcome sight.

By now the route was climbing sharply and every hill seemed to be followed by another, even steeper one. With no shelter from the sun this was hard going although the views across the Buchan countryside were beautiful. At one of the farms some cows were expressing their annoyance at the runners, presumably considering them a threat to their young calves. I was very glad of the big gate that was separating them from us!

The sign for St Fergus meant the next water station was close and I was extremely grateful to the marshal who insisted I take a bottle of water rather than a cup on such a hot day. Some very thoughtful person had prepared bananas to refuel the runners for the next stage of the race. Thank you, whoever you are.

By now I had passed the halfway stage and the long descent out of St Fergus was a

Peterhead 39

relief but I didn’t realize there were still more hills to climb. Before too long I was heading uphill again to rejoin the outward route for a short spell, arriving back at the first water station.

From there the runners were directed on to a recently top-dressed road. Although we had been warned about this before the race started it was still a fairly uncomfortable surface to run on. It was good to get back on to tarmac and a relatively flat stretch to finish although by then my legs were pretty well spent. As always, the last mile seemed much longer than all the others and I was delighted to see the marshal at the park

gate directing runners into Catto Park and on to the track, running in the right direction this time!

I can honestly say it was the toughest half marathon I’ve ever done. That said, I would recommend it and I would do it again, with a bit more hill training beforehand. Maurice Donohue, who was also running (see p 30) expressed it very well when he said “I haven’t seen so many hills since I last watched the Sound of Music!”

By the way - Ann is too modest to tell us, but she was placed second in her age group.

Congratulations, Ann! - Ed 2. Whether or not you are currently an active Jog Leader - ie. currently leading a group, or willing to do so when that's possible.

We are currently updating the information we hold on all our Jog Leaders, and we would be very grateful if you could take a moment to help us. We are checking every single Jog Leader record either by email, letter or telephone, and we’re asking you to contact us by email with the information below, even if you are a new Jog Leader: 1. Whether the details we hold on your record are correct, and any changes that are needed.

3. If so, which group/s you lead with.

To do this, please email jogscotland@ scottishathletics.org.uk with Jog Leader Update in the title and these three pieces of information in the body of the email.

Thank you!

To login and check your details, go to www.jogscotland.org.uk and use the login section at the top left of the page, as shown here:

Cool Down 40

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Cool Down The accidental marathon I never actually decided to run a marathon, but I seem to have done it anyway.

It just kind of snuck up on me. I’ve never had a burning desire to hang a marathon medal around my neck, but I did a half marathon in January, and then the Run Balmoral 15 mile trail run in April. After that, it occurred to me that most marathon training plans top out at round about 20 miles, so if I was ever going to do it, it might as well be this year.

I signed up for the Coniston Trail Marathon without telling anyone, thinking “Well, I’d better make sure I get a place, then I’ll decide whether or not to do actually it later.”

I never sat down and made the decision to do it – I just didn’t decide not to. My training was similarly haphazard, taking in the highs of a 27 mile training run (I just felt great and didn’t want to stop) and the lows of a dodgy knee that stopped me running at all for about a month before the event.

Nonetheless, I made it to the start line alongside Coniston Water on July 7th, and placed myself near the back of the friendly pack, where I found someone else doing her first marathon – and feeling as nervous as I was. Yvonne was sporting bandages on her knees rather like mine, and clutching her tummy.

“Oh God, my stomach’s churning,” she said.

“I’m from the Midlands, I’ve only practiced on canal towpaths. I’ve only run up a hill once.”

We consoled each other – neither of us had run for four weeks because of our knees – and Yvonne pointed out: “Have you noticed, everyone looks at your legs to see how much training they’ve done? God knows what they think when they look at mine….”

Even as she said it, I realised I was looking at the rippled legs around me, and down at my own. Well, at least my knees weren’t actually knocking together with fear.

As we set off, the nerves lifted and I was in a fabulous mood - the sun was shining, everyone was going at a gentle pace rather than racing off, and above all, I was incredibly relieved that I’d managed to get up for the 7am start.

We soon hit an undulating trail, and already I saw people walking the little uphills rather than running them. “Ahhh!” I thought, “I am among my people!”

I jogged along through leafy trails with others around me, feeling quite content. For a while.

But pretty soon a massive grump descended.

There was a lot more tarmac than I’d expected, which hurt my legs, and I was eagerly looking forward to the lap around the beautiful Tarn Howes, which I was expecting to appear quite quickly. It didn’t.

In fact, I was fairly sure for a long time that it wasn’t going to appear at all. Not only that, the roads were like a roller coaster – no gradual climb, just constant up and down and up and down.

On the bright side, as I’m slow uphill and fast downhill, I kept passing and being passed by the same people repeatedly, and within a few kilometres they felt like old friends.

“I thought this was eventually going to flatten out!” I gasped to a couple of women as we passed each other yet again. “What, in the Lake District?!” they laughed. I pretended to laugh with them.

Then I saw the 15K sign, and the storm clouds just lifted. I’d finally hit the steep track that was lifting me away from Tarn bloody Howes, I’d just had a cheery text from the one-woman-support-crew that was my mum, and I’d put my music on for the first time. At the sight of that 15K sign, I thought “RIGHT! Enough! Time to enjoy this thing…” and I did.

The roller coaster trails continued, but so did my good mood - even when I flew face first down one of the trails (well, flying’s faster than running…). I stopped to take photos, shoved my face and pockets full of jelly beans at the fuel stops, enjoyed the stunning scenery and tried not to think about how long I still had to go. From mile 20 onwards, our mettle was really tested by a sweltering hot, windless valley full of rocks and tree roots and bogs - one of which claimed my leg up to the thigh at one point. As I lay on my stomach, leg completely submerged, I was sorely tempted to just stay there indefinitely. But I reclaimed my leg, gritted my teeth and ignored my aches, and took comfort in the fact that even the faster runners were having to walk gingerly between the boulders. Finally, I caught sight of the chimneys of Coniston Hall, close to the finish – and then there was my mum, waving and snapping with the camera – and, finally, the sprint for the finish. And the biggest grin ever.

For once in my life I didn’t come away wondering what to sign up for next. Having accidentally done a marathon, I have no plans to complete an unplanned ultra or an absent-minded Ironman.

It’s lovely - I’m just enjoying doing whatever exercise takes my fancy – while immodestly wearing my marathon T shirt at every opportunity. Perhaps I did want to run a marathon after all.

By Sue Gyford

Cool Down 41

When Tarn Howes finally arrived, it was hard to believe we were only a third of the way into the race. My legs were tight, the crowds around me had thinned right out so I was running alone, and, and, and… well, you can fill in the gaps with whatever it is that goes around your head when you’re having a particularly huffy run. We’ve all been there.

WIN! WIN! WIN! 42

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

Be safe, be seen!

After our spectacular summer, it’s hard to imagine that the nights are drawing in, and soon those balmy, sunlit evening runs will be a thing of the past.

times you need to cross roads, dash along where there’s no pavement, or just to make sure you don’t surprise any unwary pedestrians as you whizz past them!

The darker evenings mean it’s time to make sure you have some high viz clothing on when you set out for your jog, whether you’re running alone or in a group.

Ideally, you should wear a fluorescent jacket or bib with some reflective material on. The fluorescent fabric will make you visible in low light, while the reflective areas will bounce back light from headlights and make you obvious to drivers.

Even during the day winter light levels are lower, so it’s a good idea to make a habit of running in high viz kit whatever time of day you go out. During your evening runs, even if you’re running beneath street lights, make yourself as visible as possible, for all those

As well as a jacket or bib, there is no shortage of other high viz accessories available that you could add – armbands, gloves, hats, rucksack covers - or if you’re feeling particularly stylish, perhaps all of them!

WIN! WIN! WIN! Thanks to our generous partners at Run 4 It, we are offering one jogscotland member the chance to win superb a Vizion Photon set from Ronhill, worth £138.

The set (pictured) features a high viz, water repellent and wind resistant jacket with integrated LED light system, and a pair of tights with super-reflective strips.

To enter our draw, just email sue.gyford@scottishathletics.org.uk with High Viz in the title and your name and a daytime contact number in the body of the email.

Competition closes at midnight on Sunday 29th September.

One entry accepted per email address.

#thebrightrunner PHOTON

PHOTON

JACKET & TIGHT

JACKET & TIGHT

Super reflective! integrated L.E.D. light system water repellent wind resistant

Super reflective! integrated L.E.D. light system water repellent wind resistant

jogscotland group finder

www.jogscotland.org.uk/local-groups With hundreds of groups across Scotland, here’s how to find your nearest one‌

1. go to www.jogscotland.org.uk/local-groups 2. enter postcode 3. find your nearest group 4. join in!

Local Contacts 43

jogscotland magazine Autumn 2013

VIZION PHOTON Jacket: £90 Tight: £48 Super reflective Integrated L.E.D. light system Water repellent Wind resistant

jogscotland jogscotland members members d discount iscount of of 10% 10% a applies, pplies, c checkout heckout c code: ode: J JS2013 S2013 F ree shipping shipping on all o rders ov er £50, £50, Free orders over or c collect ollect iinstore. nstore.