My comment at dinner last night asking if anyone was coming to the Parkrun with me was met with surprising enthusiasm from my 2 sons. However the reality in the morning was that No 1 son preferred to sleep but No2 was up for it (literally).
This was his first Parkrun and he hadn't done much running since an operation on his foot this summer. However he completed it in 35 minutes and more importantly enjoyed it.
At one point I could hear his heavy footfall behind me in his leather trainers and he was speaking to someone on the way round who said they weren't the best for running. So we decided to do a trip to Sweatshop this afternoon not least because as well as a sale they give another 10% off for Parkrunners and we had a £5 token. The assistant couldn't have been more patient and helpful. She did a gait analysis then offered a range of shoes which suited his running style and his narrow feet. We came away with a pair and some socks.
While I was there I got a new pair for myself and had a chat with another Parkrunner who was also looking for a bargain. The assistant even was happy to put aside a pair of shoes for her until tomorrow when the special offer came into effect.
So a good experience all round. I even had a decent time at the Parkrun - not a PB but the best time since the clocks went back.