W9R3 I did it!

[Gerry70]

I completed my final run this morning and I can't believe I've done it! I started this program because I couldn't run for a minute and now I'm running for 30 minutes; it's so amazing. The program is brilliant and for all those just starting out, keep going because it's fantastic. I am 45 next week and up until January this year I had been a smoker all my adult life and never done any exercise beyond walking my dog; so if I can do it, anyone can! I now need to work on my speed because I'm only covering about 3km in 30 minutes so I have a lot of work to do to get that to 5km. I don't post very much but I read the posts regularly and the positive encouragement and warmth from you all has helped me a great deal so a huge thank you, I couldn't have done it without you!

[gary_bart]

Congratulations. It really is hard to believe how impossible this all feels at the start, isn't it? I'm on my way toward that goal - but having to endure one of those days off without a run today - and I've reached the point where I'm starting to believe it's possible.

[Mat30 Graduate]

Congratulations!!

[jenman1 Graduate]

Well done, best thing I did giving up the fags in January. Like you I couldn't run for 60 seconds when I started the programme in April, just back from a 5 k run. Takes me about 37 mins, so don't worry about the speed . I graduated in June, I reckon ex smokers lungs probably have to work a bit harder. This running lark is a lovely healthy addiction. X

[Mary_O Graduate]

Congratulations! And a super well done on giving up smoking too.

[Kdollfraser Graduate]

Well done x

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the Graduate club, fellow runner.

[goonkeepgoing Graduate]

Congratulations. Keep running

[Ullyrunner Graduate]

Congratulations Gerry! I hope you are feeling really proud of your achievement!

[chalfont_chump]

Gerry, that is fantastic, you must be so proud of yourself. I am just a few weeks behind so can only dream what you must be feeling. This group really is amazing, I certainly could not have got as far as I have without them and I am sure it is the same for you.

Well done and thank you for posting your success, reading things like this makes such a difference to those still struggling through the program.

[Gerry70 Graduate]

Thank you to everyone for all your good wishes