This weekend sees the return of the Bognor 10k road race to my home town. Now in its 16th year the fast flat course provides a perfect opportunity for serious runners to achieve an elusive PB (personal best for the uninitiated!). The out and back route leaves West Park, takes runners in an Easterly direction on the seafront, leaving the prom to weave past Butlins and through Felpham village before rejoining the seafront for the last 5km. The race attracts runners from numerous running clubs in the South as well as local runners. A strong presence from local clubs, including Tone Zone Runners, Chichester Runners and Athletic Club and Sixth Dimension, can be expected along with terrific support from the home crowd. I love this local race and have taken part many times but my Tutoring commitments, with Future fit Training, will keep me from this year’s race. However I’ll be eagerly awaiting news of race times from clients, friends and running partners who will be taking part.
This year runners will be able to see the newly installed outdoor fitness equipment, known as “Flex on the Beach”, which covers a 5km trail on the seafront. It is hoped the fitness trail will encourage local residents, and visitors to the town, to be more physically active and take full advantage of the seafront.
Local running events, such as the Bognor 10k, are vital in promoting healthy activity within our communities. Involving the wider community through participation, support or sponsorship does much to encourage would-be exercisers. Children are not left out either but encouraged to participate in race day with two “fun run” events which take place before the main race. These runs are not races –no winners and losers – just an opportunity for the youngsters to get involved and enjoy the atmosphere.
I’m a regular runner on this route throughout the year and it is always noticeable, in the weeks following the Bognor 10k race, how many newcomers are out there running. So I’d like to take this opportunity to applaud those new to running. Many will be approaching this distance with the same trepidation experienced runners feel when undertaking a Marathon. Completing this distance for the first time will be a fantastic achievement for those runners and one they can justifiably feel proud of.
So “Good luck” to all runners, whether you are seasoned vets or recently inspired novices, for this year’s Bognor 10k road race. If you’re going along to watch the race be sure to cheer the runners on; it means so much to them and will really motivate them!
