Members of a Kendal-based running group have run almost twice around the world.
The Jogging Pals, who organise coaching programmes and events, have just clocked their 700th runner.
And director Wayne Singleton reckons that, as most of those are on couch to 5k programmes, they will each have done an average of 66 miles – which totals 46,200.
The circumference of the earth is 24,901 miles.
“We are so proud of our runners, many of whom are taking up sport for the very first time,” said Wayne, a UK Athletics coach.
“Their motivation has been fantastic, and they have kept running through lockdown when all the coaching was virtual. It’s amazing to realise that they have collectively run almost twice around the world.”
The team organised their first real event since lockdown at the weekend, with a guided run from Ravenglass to Eskdale, returning on the iconic steam railway, La’al Ratty. It was the first in a series of Run Steam Run events which will take runners across Windermere, Ullswater and Derwentwater over the coming months.
During lockdown they organised virtual races, including a 10k which was entered by an American runner, Paul d’Elisa. Hoping to keep runners active by running 10k along the Lancaster to Kendal canal…or anywhere, the Jogging Pals offered a commemorative token to runners who emailed proof of the distance, and New Yorker Paul was one of more than 60 runners who took up the challenge.
There’s now a competition prize offered for anyone who signs up for an eight-week online personalised coaching plan. These can be tailored for any distance from couch to ultra running, and adapted for each runner’s profile, experience and circumstances. Those who sign up before the end of September have a chance of winning a £50 voucher to spend at Pete Bland Sports. Email [email protected] for details.
