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A special night of races aims to break down barriers to running on the track in a supportive party atmosphere.
It is hoped that people of all abilities will enter the Spike Night of the 5000s, with a series of graded races at Footes Lane on Friday 25 August to ensure everyone feels welcome.
Alongside that, the organisers are staging a Masters Mile for those over 50, stressing the physical and mental benefits of staying active later in life.
“The 5K distance is already popular and familiar, with hundreds regularly turning out for Parkrun or our own events through the year on the road or in Saumarez Park. This is a chance for people to continue their running journeys with all the benefits and challenges that running on a track brings,” said Guernsey Athletics’ Endurance Director Chris Gillman.
“There will be music and plenty of support and as the night goes on you get the chance to watch faster athletes battle it out. It will be an exciting and inspiring night. We really want to emphasise that this is an event for any ability, whether you are just finishing your first couch to 5k or a seasoned athlete there will be a warm welcome for everyone.”
It will cost £10 to enter the 5000m with refreshments provided.
The mile is a classic distance in running, and one that people will have grown up knowing.
It covers just over four laps of the track.
There will be free entry into those races for anyone aged over 50, with training sessions on offer to help get ready for the challenge.
“We would encourage people through to their 70s, 80s, or even 90s if they are keen to try the Masters Mile,” said Gillman.
“We know being active as we age helps people have a healthier fulfilling life and the Masters Mile wants to celebrate this. It also provides a focus to get active in the weeks leading up to it.”
The mile will be a different challenge for many runners so junior endurance coach and super veteran athlete Alun Williams will take weekly training sessions to help preparations.
“With a few targeted and specialised sessions athletes of any age, but especially those of us from older generations, will see a significant improvement in track times,” said Williams.
“Just getting used to running at speed on a track will be beneficial and we will be hosting sessions on Wednesday mornings from 8am to 9am and then 9am to 10am in the run up to the race. The focus will be on shorter, quicker runs. We’re also encouraging everyone to do the Guernsey Athletics’ Vazon Mile on Thursday 3 August.”
Pictured: Alun Williams.
The Night of the 5000s incorporating the Masters Mile begins at 6pm on Friday 25 August.
Athletes in the A and B races for faster runners will need to comply with World Athletics rules on shoes for the track.
Entry is open at https://data.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2023/GBR/nightof5k
Anyone interested in training for the Masters Mile should contact Alun Williams by emailing alun.williams@healthimprovement.gg or calling 07839 741223.
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