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. 

5 Women Goodgym runners went in a group run to Lynnwood Gardens. With spades the wonder women digged dashed and cleared soil and debri along the path to make it tidy and safe. John and Liz from Sustrans really appreciated our teamwork. strength and cooperation. Worked really hard in the dark with additional lighting.

What a perfect night for a lovely inside task!

On a bit of a bleak drizzly Sheffield eve we made our way to our old friends Regather to do some painting of the events space which will soon be put back into action which we're all looking forward to.

We met Jess and Rachel on site who got us up and running straight away with rollers, brushes and paint at the ready!

Some went for the tall stuff, some the small detail stuff, it was all appreciated by the team at Regather.

We were well looked after with cups of tea, coffee and the groups fave hot chocolate made for the team!

After a decent sesh the painted areas were looking loads better and I'm sure it won't be long until a bunch of us are in there enjoying events to come!

Until next time, happy running! :)

On a sunny evening in Aigburth, Goodgymers united together from various locations to meet at the Sunflowers Centre. Jennifer and Joanna cycling 8.5k in total tonight and many running or walking. This was a task with a strong message of hope behind it. Sunflowers clearly want to show that they are vibrant, extending out into the community and bringing hope to the area for those affected by cancer. So in the back yard of the centre, there was mulch to do. Nobody was seedentary for very long! In two teams of four, working in slick efficiency, a blend of compost and mulch was fitted into each biodegradable pot. A perfect bed for each seed. With the greenhouse filled and every surface near Serena, Heetu, Eimear and Chris covered, we counted 430 pots filled. Over a third of the way towards the 1260 total.

Kudos to Joanna and Serena for hitting your fifth good deeds each this evening, great work. We’ll be back in a few months to help plant the sunflowers which be an incredible sight to see on Aigburth Road. So keep it on your radar and well done for your work tonight. P.S. You have voices like angels so thank you for the birthday song!