Back in December 2019, I spotted a simple notice taped to a lamp post in Penkridge: “Why not join us for Couch to 5K in January?”
I’d just retired, had zero running experience, but knew staying active mattered more than ever. I wanted to get fitter and lose a little weight — and like many, I made the mistake of thinking I should shed the pounds before I laced up.
Thankfully, I learned the truth: start first and the rest follows.
January slipped by. Then December came round again, the same flyers appeared… and then Covid hit and everything paused.
But I made a promise: as soon as Penkridge Runners returned, so would I.
April 2021 — My first session. Two memories stand out:
- Running with others was brilliant fun, even though most were far faster than me.
- Our coach ran beside me and said: “Keep coming, enjoy it — and one day you could be ready for a 5K.”
At the time? The idea felt laughable. But I kept showing up.
Fast forward to March 2024 and I crossed the finish line of my first 5K at Chasewater — pride and pure joy like I’d never known.
Since then, I’ve completed many more 5Ks… and in 2026, aged 73, I ran my first ever 10K — something I once thought impossible.
I’m not chasing longer distances now — just faster times. And honestly? Knocking a few seconds off a Personal Best feels every bit as amazing.
Why Penkridge Runners?
We’re all ages, all paces — from marathon veterans to absolute beginners.
No judgement, no criticism — just endless encouragement from leaders and members alike.
We celebrate every step forward, whether it’s your first lap or your latest PB.
Whatever your starting point — you belong here.
Eddie !
