Victoria's Secret

No, not that Victoria's Secret.  Instead, the venue for run #2 of 40 was East Belfast's Victoria Park.  This is the location of the newest Parkrun to appear in Belfast following in the footsteps (literally) of the hugely popular Waterworks Parkrun in North Belfast.

The plan for this morning was an early(ish) departure to Belfast with Ben and Zack.  The running gear was laid out the night before which I'm fairly certain is an obsessive habit of most runners.  Everything was going according to plan when Zack decided not to run.  I was astounded to hear this 5 year old say that there was no point going.  He declared most of his top competition would be running in the International XC at Greenmount that afternoon??

This was a first for my eldest boy and as we waited on the start line, I was extremely proud that he was going to join me on this occasion.  The whistle was blown and off we went, 3 laps of the lake.  Our approach to the run was to follow a walk/run strategy.  We walked between landmarks such as park benches and then ran to the next point on the course and repeated this tactic.  Despite a cold wind, Ben ran well and maintained a steady approach until the last few metres when he shot off and beat me over the line.  The 'Fleming' competitive gene is alive and well!!

What secrets are found at the Victoria Parkrun?  Well, it's a beautiful spot nestled in an area with such industrial heritage.  Shorts aircraft factory can be seen alongside the route and of course the famous Harland and Wolff cranes towering over the runners.  The SS Titanic (it was ok when it left here) was built minutes away.  My thoughts turned to those involved in it's construction and the leisure time many spent with their families in this very park

There is also plenty for the birdwatchers, with an array of wildlife including Canadian Geese and the lesser spotted 9.20am Flybe departure to London.  The huge smile on Ben's face as the plane took off from the adjoining runway and flew above us was fantastic.

Afterwards, the famous Parkrun hospitality was on offer with free tea/coffee/juice, chocolate muffins etc on offer.  As I was about to get a coffee I was amazed to be greeted by a girlfriend from over 20 years ago!!  I'm not sure which one of us was more surprised to see the other at a running event.

Without wishing to embarrass Joanne and her friend Maxine, as highly skilled medical professionals they both work with individuals suffering from cancer on a daily basis.  As I drove home I was really heartened by the thought that there are many others like them.  Many who dedicate their lives to finding new treatments.  In doing so improving survival chances.  It would also be amiss not to mention the many nurses/volunteers/charity workers who work to improve the quality of life for everyone affected by this disease.

Only run 2 out of 40 but already this journey has been great - getting to run with family and friends (new and old).  Thanks to everyone today for their words of encouragement along the course and especially the great folk from Orangegrove AC.  You should be very proud of the support you give the Victoria Parkrun.

Have I missed something?  Oh yes - How did the run go?

Peter Fleming finished in FORTY minutes and FORTY seconds (just behind his eldest boy!)

Victoria Parkrun Results
Victoria Parkrun Info
Waterworks Parkrun Info
Results-Antrim-IAAF-Cross-Country

The Cheshire Cat (and dog) finish last....

Every family has a few traditions they follow each year.  Over the last few years since I started running, one tradition in our house remains strong.  Julie and the boys wave me off early on New Years Day as I make my way to Glenariff for Ballymena Runners Race Over The Glens.

Off I go armed with sandwiches to feed the hundreds of runners who also make this great race part of their new year routine.  Often I leave the start line with thoughts of setting a better time or beating a fellow runner to the finish line.  This 'scalping' of another runner especially a club mate allows for bragging rights until the next time at least.

This year I ran with probably my most loyal running companion, Max.  It may surprise you to know that Max is 56 years old, has white thick hair (all over), goes to the toilet outdoors and loves nothing better than sniffing lamposts.  This companion is my wee Westie dog, who knows the Glenariff course as well as most.

The intention was to hang near the back and then pick off some of the other runners who would tire in this stunning and surprisingly tough course.  The race started at noon and we set off on the downhill section.

Progress was slow and this was evidenced when both the paramedics who walk the course passed us both after 1.5 miles.  The sharp climb was next, bringing us both to the top of the Glen with views across to Scotland. 

The great thing about being held back by Max (who was out of shape a bit) is the people I met.  A couple of girls from one of NIs newest clubs Orangegrove AC.  They were both smiling broadly, an unusual reaction to this course and I was impressed by their festive cheer and enthusiasm.  At the half way point, I met Derek who does a wee bit of running mainly for charity.  He is involved with a charity in Ballymena helping those affected by addiction to gambling, alcohol, drugs etc.  It was evident that everyone runs for different reasons and that's what is great about this sport.

With just over a mile left progress was still a bit slow and we were coming down the last descent when Max made an unexpected detour (after Irish hares no doubt).  This meant that we were coming in last place, but as the snow began to fall and the finish line was near my thoughts turned to Narnia and the joy that it brings to those young children and their families dealing with cancer.

The finish line was manned by Dave, Tommy (awarded the MBE in this years honours list) and his wife Phylis.  These guys are real stalwarts of Athletics in NI and their dedication admirable.  A few wise cracks were made about drug testing as Max made another pit stop just before crossing the line.

Finishing last didn't matter, the smile on my face was broad.  Why?  My first event in 2012 was a super event with fantastic scenery and truly inspirational people.  1 down 39 to go.

Results - http://www.freewebs.com/raceovertheglens/Results/ROTG_2012.xls

Interested in competitive racing with your dog? - http://cani-cross.co.uk/