Pickering Running Club

Vanessa says:

Hi my name is Vanessa and I joined Pickering Running Club as a jogger but am now a runner (but jogging is ok). I had spent the previous couple of years walking/jogging around the streets of Pickering and the Moors at Rosedale but never really getting any better, faster or fitter and couldn’t see how I could improve. Not only has my fitness level increased but I have also made friends that I would never otherwise have met.

The club accommodates all ages, sizes, abilities and so if you fancy a hard work out, then there will be someone on your heels, alternatively fancy less of a run and more of a chat, then there is certainly that option available.

The summer runs have to be my fav, going to places that you otherwise wouldn’t think of going to, and of course there is the customary drink at the end - by the way mine is a Guinness!

What I have found really refreshing is how everyone at the club is willing to share their experiences (and they have had some!!),  training plans and more.... don’t like driving in the snow – text Steve and your personal taxi arrives, fancy a drink with the girls then call Karen.....

I know it is scary to come along the first time (well I was), but give it a go it is certainly well worth it.

Vanessa

Malcolm Hadfield says:

Hi. My name is Malcolm and I live in Malton and run with Pickering Running Club. I am known for two things. The first is being the slowest runner in the club, and the second is being the slowest runner who has ever run with the club. That makes me very popular with everyone because if I am running you're not going to be the last runner.

Seriously though, I always wanted to be a runner but thought that I would never be able to do so. But I joined the club 4 years ago and although I had to work at it the club was fantastic with me and very supportive. I now do the York District Road Race League 10K races and have become involved in some of the other activities with the club which include an annual skiing holiday, running weekends and a whole host of other interests. My latest roll is being coupled with injured runners who have been instructed to only run very slowly so they have to stay at my pace.

So if you think the club is just for Olympic athletes you couldn't be more wrong but if you are a good runner there are plenty of good runners in the club so you could say we cater for all levels. What I can tell you is that I don't think you will be last.

Best Wishes Malcolm

Peter Winter says:

You might think that I’m not enjoying the run in this photograph, but this was taken after a 1500M swim in open water and a 40K bike ride. I was then getting close to finishing a 10KM run. I then cheered up considerably when I successfully finished this Olympic distance triathlon. Running is actually the event I do best in and enjoy the most.

Before joining Pickering Runninig Club, I had dabbled in short “sprint” triathlons including just 16 lengths of a swimming pool, but never had the confidence to buy a wetsuit and go for something more ambitious. A club gets you to meet like-minded people who then encourage you to take that step further. The fact that other people you know are training for the same event does give you that extra motivation to cycle / swim / run that little longer. Longer bike rides are that much more enjoyable with people you can con into buying you a coffee half-way round.

So, my advice to any strangers reading is this: Join us, you won’t regret it!