I was psyched up and ready to do my first Park Run today (13th anniversary apparently). My friend had mentioned doing it, so I had put it in my diary and was all set. I texted my friend last night but got no reply, then this morning she text back to say she had had a bad night and wouldn't be going.😕
Before C25K, the old me would have thought "lucky escape, I don't need to bother" but the new me was determined to give it a go. I got there in good time and had a brisk 5 minute walk before the newbies talk and then it was time to run! Three laps of the park. I had Jo on my phone, urging me on over my running songs; for some reason she helps!! At the end of the first lap I was thinking can I manage another two laps?! Before long, somehow I was half way and then just focused on the second half. I would not stop and walk even though at times I felt like it. Before I knew it I was on the final lap and heading for the finish line, I even managed a little sprint!! I am loving the feeling running gives me. Everyone today was so positive and the clapping helps to keep you going. After going through tough times; bereavements of both parents within 6 months of each other, I now feel a sense of wellbeing and fulfilment and know how proud they would both be.
I did it on my own and feel very proud! My time was 31:46 and I was the 62nd female and 12th in my age category of VW50-54!
All this from downloading the C25K app!!
Eternally grateful for what this has done for me! I've got my mojo back!!😊
If anyone else is thinking of giving it a go, don't hesitate, it's not easy but so worth it!
Written by
Lynnecanrun
Graduate
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That’s an amazing time!! Well done!! I have done my park run 3 times now. It’s a killer with 3 sets of stairs and the mud is covering my lovely running shoes. But I love it!! The support is fab. People who had already finished come back up the course to cheer on those of us who aren’t as fast. I love it. Xx
Ooh stairs! That's a doozy. We have a steep hill at ours near the end that I always walk up. A few times some of the people that have finished come to cheer people up and I feel obligated to try and run up it. There might be slight cursing under my breath on those days
Wow I don't know about Lynnecanrun maybe we should rename you speedy gonzalez.
So impressed, not only at your time, that you did it alone, what you've gone through and overcome you deserve to feel proud of yourself. I look forward to my first parkrun after graduation now.
Well done to you that’s a great time, I am on +1 week after graduating C25k and still can’t get 5k done in less than 34 minutes so good for you and for your determined spirit 😄. Hope your friend’s ok.
Fantastic post. It's really something when you stop and think about how C25K affects many aspects of our lives, from feeling more confident in your abilities, to new routines and friends at events and Parkruns, to our physical well being and mental health. Congratulations on your first Parkrun. I'm guessing you'll be back. Well done.
Oh well done that woman. I've not been brave enough to do Park Run yet (and the nearest one is an hour and a quarter away, which puts me off a bit), but it sounds a wonderful way to spend a Sunday morning. You've inspired me to have a bash!
What a lovely post Lynne, you ran a superb time. Respect for still doing it without your friend.😊
You have had a tough time this year by the sound of it, losing both your parents must have knocked the stuffing out of you. Its great that your running had given you a focus and something to help you through the hard times. They would be so proud of you and will always be with you cheering you on.xx
Thanks so much. This forum is fab! Such great support!
The running really helps me to banish any negative thoughts. I find it really helps me to focus on all the positives in my life, of which there are many. I miss my Parents each and every day but they are always with me in my heart and that keeps me going.
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Park Run Graduation!! 👊
W9R3 & Park Run = Graduation
First Park Run - disillusioned
First Park Run since 2018! 
First park run done!!
