So you’ve decide to run the Uganda Marathon (or half or 10K) this June… You’re been getting into your running routine, but you’re starting to realise those training runs can get quite lonely sometimes…
Or you can’t believe how the January weeks have flown by, and ‘Go for a first run’ is still on your to-do list…
Maybe you’re still thinking about signing up, and would like to know a little more?
Well, whether you’re seeking a social run, want to kickoff your training or ask a few questions, then this could be for you…
UGM parkruns are back!
After the success of last year’s UGM parkrun Tour, we are running training sessions again at parkruns. Last weekend we had a few 2015 runners at Dulwich parkrun, and this weekend we’re holding our first training session for our 2016 runners at another parkrun.
Where’s the training session this Saturday?
Our first official training session for the 2016 event is the Peckham Rye parkrun. It’s in Southeast London in Zone 2. For more specific directions, you can click here.
Who’ll be there?
The session is being hosted by Mark, our Mzungi champion. He’s a seasoned runner, who completed the 2015 marathon in an impressive 3 hours & 36 minutes. As an England Athletics certified coach and our running expert, he’ll be leading the session for our runners.
They’ll also be other UGM team members there and at least two former participants (myself & Mark) who experience the whole six-day adventure in Uganda. So it’s the perfect opportunity to ask questions, whether running, fundraising or trip related.
And of course, they’ll be 2016 runners there. So it’s the perfect chance to meet people who have signed up for this year’s event!
What is a parkrun, anyway?
It’s an initiative to organise free, weekly, timed 5K runs in pleasant parkland areas all over the world. Open to all abilities, whether junior, beginner or expert. The courses are marshalled by volunteers too, to keep you both safe and to record your time.
Why I love parkruns
My first experience of parkruns was last summer with the UGM’s parkrun Tour. I heard what some of the UGM runners were doing, touring the various parkruns within the M25, and even though I wasn’t based in London, I was keen to get involved and catch up with my fellow runners from Uganda.
So I got up early one morning and met the team at Old Deer Park, and I discovered how much I enjoyed parkruns!
In short: I love how the 5K course can either be a push for PB, or a gentle, social run as you chat to your fellow runners. There’s a great community feel and everyone is very friendly and supportive of each other’s efforts. It’s a good workout, but not too far, and doesn’t consume much of your weekend.
In fact, with a coffee and a catch up afterwards, I’d say it’s the perfect way to start the weekend. And if you’re signed up, you get your stats for each run sent to you, so you can track your progress.
‘I’m in!’ The schedule for this Saturday
Awesome! We can’t wait to see you there! Here’s the plan:
- 08:30- Meet at Café ‘on the Rye’ Peckham Rye, SE15 3UA
- 08:40- Group run & warm up before making our way to the parkrun startline
- 09:00- parkrun time! A timed 5K run- at your own pace. No rush!
- 09:45- Coffee and Q&A at a nearby venue
If you can, please let us know you’re coming via email, Facebook or Twitter, and then lookout for the UGM tshirts by the cafe when you arrive!
It’s my first parkrun- can I be timed?
Yes, no problem! You can sign up to parkrun here. Then just print off your barcode and bring it with you on Saturday. They’ll scan it at the finish line, and you’ll get your time added to your profile.
Ready, set, go!
If you’re register with parkrun & have your barcode (both only required if you want a time recorded), and you’ve dropped us a quick message to look out for you, then you’re all set.
We’ll see you on Saturday at 08:30 in Peckham Rye Park. We can’t wait to meet and get to know you, have some fun running, and answer your questions over a coffee! See you there!
I’m interested, but can’t make it… No worries! We’d love to see you at another session or at one of our upcoming events. Or if you’re London based, see you at Project Awesome on a Wednesday morning. In the meantime, feel free to get in touch!
