The boring old fat guy came good!

[Malcy]

Well, today was the Great Edinburgh Run. First proper event since 1993 and yes, that makes 29 years of a gap. Started to lose a bit of weight back in January, found C25K at the end of February and graduated in May. Posted some stories about running in Oz when I visite my lad but have been pretty quiet on the blogs since then - just lurking, listening to read about other folks' experiences.

Anyway, I must get to the point.

I did the Great Edinburgh Run this morning. Flippin' cold! But ideal for running. I'd forecast a time of 30 mins for the 5k event but was surprised to be put near the front of the field. Once under way, I found myself overtaking one runner, then another and another and ... well, you get the idea. But I still didn't think I was going very quickly. I, in turn was being overtaken by others, bu that was OK - good for them. Got round without any real difficulty and headed home (via the food marquees as a bit of a treat to myself).

I've just seen the results ... and can hardly believe what I see.

131st overall. Wow! Time 27m 32s - not fantastic but a personal best. Woohoo!

THIRD placed in the 55-59 age group. How did I manage that? (OK so there were only 16 finishers in my age group. Even so, third is way better than I would have dreamed.

If you've ever read any of my "boring old fat bloke" posts, you'll know I'm a huge believer in the C25K progamme and how a mix of this and a change in diet can be life-changing.

Was 97kg, now 71. Was on high medication for blood pressure, now on half dose and hope to get the all clear to stop taking the pills when I see my GP again in a couple of weeks time.

Was reasonably fit despite my weight, but couldn't run for toffeen I am now good enough to have beaten almost everyone in my age group in a 'Great Xxx Run' event.

I've said it before and I'll say it again. THE C25K PROGRAMME WORKS! Just take your time, and when things go wrong (as they nearly always do) pick it up again when you feel the time is right. Enjoy the exercise and watch your life change.

[pingle Graduate]

Congratualations! Fantastic result! Fantastic time! Just fantastic!

[oona Graduate]

Well done, Malcy! Your blog is inspirational!

[Deryn61 Graduate]

Well done, that is a brilliant achievement!

(I was thrilled to see I had fourth place for my agerange at the parkrun I sometimes do. Then I noticed the number of females in the 50 to 54 age range was . . . . . four )

[AliB1 Graduate]

Good to hear from you! That's an amazing achievement, well done!!!!!

[Caz9 Graduate]

Great blog and an excellent result, well done you!

[magster Graduate]

Well done and what a great time!

[swanscot Graduate]

Well done - what a great time. Here's to your future running and continuing improvement in your health.

[Oldgirl Graduate]

Excellent time Malcy, I agree this running has changed my life for sure. I was always quite fit and active until 12 years ago then health and an accident changed my life style. Thankfully I didn't continue down the inactive road but got up off the couch and found the running route