We all know that GoodGym group runs are all about teamwork. Little did we know that this week’s trip to Cody Dock would be struck by misfortune before we’d even got there, when Run leader Brahma suffered a nasty repeat of an ankle injury midway to the Olympic Park. The WhatsApp Task Force group sprung into action.

Fortunately, the Newham task force now includes 3 newly qualified run leaders, so we have an excellent plan B (not as good as plan A obvs), and whilst Alice, Kevin and Sharon were not expecting to get the chance to put into practice so soon the skills recently learned at Goodgym training camp and England Athletics run leader training, it was a grateful group of 16 Goodgymers who were happy to be practised on, including newbies Elena and Justine who we hope will come back when plan A is in operation.

Following textbook health and safety briefing, and all round intros, led by the able deputies, Sharon was presented with her 50 good deed t-shirt, and we set off on the well trodden route to Cody Dock. Teams were selected to vigorously remove some debris from the pontoon area, to re-arrange pallets (there's always lots of competition for this one), and for most of the group to continue the finest bench varnishing in the East End. This will be the place to come to shine your trousers for years to come.

All too soon, the varnishing was over, and after very (I mean, very) carefully laying out the rags which we'd been told would self combust if we didn't do it properly, the tireless crew raced the clouds back to the Aquatic Centre. The sacrifices of the tail runners were never more apparent than when the heavens opened whilst still en route. It was felt that a celebratory trip to the pub was in order, to celebrate the success of Plan B. The slightly damp but happy crew spent a pleasing time sending pictures of themselves and their drinks to Brahma, who in return sent us pictures of his ankle and a giant jar of Nutella. Hopefully we’ll all feel better in the morning.

This is Goodgym Newham. Team Goodgym Newham.

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