Fynn Valley Trail Run
I am what I like to call a 'socially shy person'. This I class as someone that constantly wants to socialise, but gets nervous about talking to new people and is rubbish at small talk. When I first joined Run for your Life I was incredible nervous about introducing myself to people - making small talk or even attending races by myself. I used to rely on my running buddy for everything - introductions - support at races - and bailing me out when I got in a pickle with small talk. A year and a bit on and I feel like a different person. The people I have met through Run for your Life have been so lovely, welcoming and supportive it has increased my confidence no end.
This increased confidence has opened up more opportunities for me so when work decided to grant us an additional day off I was excited to see that a fellow runer had created an event call the Fynn Valley Trail Run to try and encourage people to get together for a 9 -10 mile run. I noticed that I had previously met several of the people attending so I was brave enough to confirm I would be attending.
At 9am I drove to meet 10 other runners at Playford Village Hall. There were several people I knew, but was quickly introduced to a number of new faces. Everyone was super excited about getting a few extra miles under their belts before Christmas day.
Our route took us along the Fynn Valley out towards Martlesham and back - STRAVA route. The group naturally split into a good pace and I ended up relatively near the front leading the way. The route was really straight forward along the valley and we were lucky that winter here in Ipswich had been particularly dry. The ground was solid and the opportunity of sliding over in the mud was limited. Perfect conditions for someone who is still getting their ankle strength up! I still took it very easy ensuring that every step I took was on a sturdy area to limit a repeat fall.
The group had a good pace and it was a good speed to get a few extra miles on the ankle. The furthest I had gone since my accident was 8 miles so to increase it by a further 1 and a half miles was good for my confidence. I think I was nicely distracted throughout the run as we all discussed our Christmas plans, future race plans for 2017 and who would be attending any park runs over the Christmas period. A year ago I would have struggled to maintain a discussion all the way around a 9 mile run and now I found myself chatting away - asking questions and building up friendships with some really interesting people. I think making new friends who I don't work with has been really good for me. It allows you an outlet for stress by focusing on something completely different. Historically work has taken over alot of my time - with running in my life there is a greater balance and I certainly feel content. It was a lovely group of people to run with and I am pleased that I was brave enough to join them all.
I have now arranged a post Christmas trail run and I am hoping that just as many people come along.