(B)race yourself for a British Picnic.

In the local running diary is the Tony Barnes Memorial 5 miler - organised by a local running group and set in one of our local parks -  its a very popular event. This year Bekah and Chris had signed up to take part. For Bekah this was her furthest she has run and for Chris it was a return to run events after a break of two years.

It had been very hot on our task on Monday and there was concern that it might be gruelling hot for the run - this wasn't a problem on the night as the temperature had plummeted and near winter had arrived again. I turned up beforehand to hang out and soak up the vibes of pre run- (always a chance for a chat to everyone as well). as well as offer my support.  The time before the run starts can be that strange mixture of excitement and nervousness and I planned to give a well meaning pep talk. However I got distracted by a.) being so excited at Bekah and Chris's imminent run and personal challenges and b.) seeing people to chat to. Before long the run started and the runners set off. Fortunately for everyone Miriam arrived and took to cheerleading like a true pro - it was such good fun to be cheering on with someone with equal enthusiasm. Then Miriam showed her trump card - her camera skills - we had situated ourselves somewhat by fluke that we would see Bekah and Chris 4 times in differing directions  - I managed to photograph the back of one of their heads despite lots of trying. Miriam caught them on each passing. Each time they passed they looked strong and gave us smiles and thumbs up - they both individually  paced themselves so well -  not running out of steam -  each finishing really strong and with a smile. We had NO doubt they would do well but I know they both exceeded their own expectations.

The thing about being there when people achieve their goals and succeed their goals is its a privilege  -  to witness the slight nervousness, the little doubt and then the euphoria - and that euphoria is infectious Miriam and I were grinning and jumping for them both.

At the finish line we were joined by Chris's friend Serena  who we soon found out is a Goodgym Sheffield member. So lovely to spend time with you - hope to see you again soon Serena.

Then what better way to end this evening but a picnic - we were all excited about Bekah's famous sausage rolls.. (she also had some vegan ones) as we stood around at the finish line  Chris uttered the magical words of 'where are the sausage rolls then?'  which was the cue to pick up our picnic bags find a spot by the beautiful Palm house and bring out our shared goodies for a feast... and what a feast.

We sat and ate and chatted and despite the weather which was overcast, windy and cold we managed to spend a considerable amount of time picnicking in the british 'summertime' . Whilst the sausage rolls were winning sausage rolls I have to say that for me Bekah and Chris were our winners. Well done to you both.

If you are inspired, enthused, in awe, motivated by all this talk of sausage rolls..... I mean running then why not meet us at the suitcases on a Monday evening.  We run to the task,  we welcome everyone.