What an amazing start for Goodgym Ipswich!

30 runners, some supporters, spectators and an array of photographers - it seemed- descended on the University of Suffolk Waterfront building

After the formalities of posing for photographs (you at the back move a step to the right please!) for the local media and a welcome briefing Goodgym Ipswich was ready to launch it's inaugural run.

The tension got the better of Goodgym Trainer Ian and he false started before bringing everyone back for the official countdown by our specially invited guest - international transplant athlete and world champion Michelle Mitchell...... And then we were off running past the plush boats, early evening diners and the best view in Ipswich.

Goodgym Colchester regulars Chris, James had come along to lend their support with Colchester Trainer Angela who took up back marker duties.

We re-grouped a few times, including a quick sessions of squats for the quicker guys. Anyone entered in the forthcoming Great East Run had a small preview of part of the half marathon course on the run out along Wherstead Road.

Arriving at the Activ Lives Peoples Community Garden from under the railway bridge it looked like a small army was marching towards the gates! Our host Danny was waiting to welcome us with a quick briefing and outline of the task for tonight.

Splitting into three groups everyone dived in enthusiastically grabbing spades, forks, wheelbarrows and hoes. In 30 minutes a large brassica bed was weeded, another two massive beds dug over, weeded and barrow loads of debris cleared to compost. An enormous amount of works was done and everyone gathered for a team photo with the resident scarecrow., before we headed back to our new base.

Following the same route for our return, re-grouping involved some "Barrier" press ups. A short session of "easy & quick" interval runs between lamp posts along the riverside, was incorporated into our run back to the waterfront where we stretched out to finish off the evening as the light faded.

A wonderful night - Big thanks to our guest star Michelle for coming along to officially launch Goodgym Ipswich - apologies that I almost forgot why I had invited her! Michelle is an inspirational athlete and is keen to raise awareness of organ donation as well as support Goodgym.

Thanks also to University of Suffolk who are hosting Goodgym Ipswich - as a meeting point and with free use of the car park on a Monday evening. - Also to Suffolk County Council who are working in partnership with Goodgym to set up the Ipswich project.

Even bigger thanks to everyone who came on the run - it was a fabulous first one! We'll meet every Monday from now on 6.15pm ready to set off at 6.30pm at the Waterfront. Look out for details of next week's Group Run on the website and there is also a Goodgym Ipswich Facebook group that will become our social channel for info and chat!

Cheers Ian