By Rory McKee
A SOCIAL running initiative in the Crawfordsburn area is gathering pace, with growing numbers of locals lacing up each week to enjoy the mix of fitness, friendship and fresh air.
The Go Run Crawfordsburn initiative is one of eight social runs in the wider Go Run NI programme – a community-focused network established by Athletics Northern Ireland which aims to bring people together in a fun and supportive environment, where, as organisers say, ‘it’s not about the pace but the people.’
Led locally by Julie Beckett, a personal trainer with a background in track and field, the Crawfordsburn group got underway eight weeks ago and meets on Monday evenings.
“We had 19 ladies turn up on the very first night,” Julie said. “There are people who run with us for the social aspect, and others who use it for recovery purposes. I haven’t put a label on it because we want to welcome all abilities of runners.”
Julie says the benefits extend far beyond just keeping fit and the strong sense of community from the group is already being felt.
“It’s really important to be able to get your head showered away from the pressures of home life,” she explained. “I know personally that between balancing work, cooking tea and being a taxi service for your kids that there’s not a lot of time for yourself.
“I received a message one evening from a lady to say how much it had meant for her mentally to be involved. So although getting fitter and stronger is all part of it, the benefits are far greater than that.”
Those interested in getting involved with Go Run Crawfordsburn can contact Julie via email at juliefunctionalfitness@gmail.com. Regular updates are also posted on social media, on both the Go Run NI Facebook page and at Julie Beckett Functional Fitness.
Plans are also in the works for a festive Christmas run, rewarded with mulled wine at the Old Inn in Crawfordsburn afterwards.
