Running for Retrak: Week 7

This month I discovered the joys of the 5km Parkrun, something I touched on in an earlier post. A couple of weeks ago while in England, I joined the run in Braunstone – and was overwhelmed by the camaraderie and athleticism on show. From my prime position at the back of the field, I could admire the neon column of 150-odd runners of all ages – plus the odd dog and pushchair – as it snaked around the park. The fact I shaved a good three minutes off my previous best time, in bitterly cold and waterlogged conditions, is either testament to the power of team spirit or a suggestion that on previous occasions I might not have been trying as hard as I could. A little of both, perhaps.

Inspired by this success, and spurred on by a reader who got in touch, I contacted the organisers to see about setting up an event in Brussels. You won’t be at all surprised to learn that red tape, as ever, proves to be a stumbling block. “Before we start a Parkrun in any country, we need to create the company structure and put the people in place to manage this entity. Unfortunately, we are not ready to do this in Belgium at this time.” Fingers crossed, then, but in hope rather than expectation. 

So, in the absence of a weekly Parkrun, I’m considering joining a running group here, in an effort to improve my fitness and technique and benefit from a little friendly encouragement. If anyone knows of any Brussels groups who’d welcome an out-of-shape newbie, do let me know. 

I’m running the Brussels 20k in May in aid of Retrak. Huge thanks to all those who’ve sponsored me and helped me reach my fundraising target.