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Dundee Roadrunners
Meet the Roadrunners
This page contains Q&As with club members, where people can share their running stories. If you would like to be featured, please email the club at roadrunnersdundee@gmail.com.
George McKinley
Member since 2018
Hi, George! So, when did you start running and why?
I developed asthma in my thirties and a work colleague suggested running as it kept his under control.
I started doing a couple of short runs a week with him which helped and then after a while I was running longer distances and more frequently. Before I knew it I got carried away and was asking myself if I was mad to be considering entering a marathon...
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I had run the Templeton 10 the year before joining and everyone was very welcoming and friendly. I had just moved to Dundee so was keen to meet new people to run with, learn new routes and find out about other races.
What do you get out of the club?
Lot of things, but mainly the people I have met who I continue to run with in all weathers. It's nice to be a member of a group who have a common interest and don't think it is daft to go out running in horizontal rain or at crazy o'clock in the morning.
It is always fun going to races in a big group and see everyone along the way, DRR always have so many turning up for races, especially in the Grand Prix events, and the support is fantastic.
It is great to see runners progressing, putting in the work and continuing to get PBs. Recently some of the times achieved in various distances has been amazing and it's great to see the club consistently winning team prizes.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
A nice flat tarmac road with no wind.... guess I live in the wrong place for that!
What's been your favourite running event?
I have been fortunate enough to run the London Marathon a few times and really enjoyed that having watched it over the years on TV; the crowds are amazing all along the route.
I also run the Antrim Coast Half marathon every year as it is in my home town, it is fast and flat (see above) and the scenery is great along the way, though I don't always get a chance to enjoy it...
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Apart from finishing my first marathon which I thought would never end, it would certainly be running sub 3 for a marathon. The marathon more than anything takes training and preparation otherwise it can be a very long day...
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Lots - running into a lamppost breaking a tooth, face-planting when not seeing a bollard, and also getting lost on a long run with Marcus after getting dropped (standard practice). Long story short - I kept on running, expecting to see him round the next corner, while he was running loops waiting for me. We ended up 5 miles apart!
Any top tips for new runners?
The hardest part is getting out the door - arrange to meet someone for a run so you can't back out.
I probably wouldn't get out of bed for half my runs unless I knew there was someone waiting at the end of the road for me.
Hi, George! So, when did you start running and why?
I developed asthma in my thirties and a work colleague suggested running as it kept his under control.
I started doing a couple of short runs a week with him which helped and then after a while I was running longer distances and more frequently. Before I knew it I got carried away and was asking myself if I was mad to be considering entering a marathon...
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I had run the Templeton 10 the year before joining and everyone was very welcoming and friendly. I had just moved to Dundee so was keen to meet new people to run with, learn new routes and find out about other races.
What do you get out of the club?
Lot of things, but mainly the people I have met who I continue to run with in all weathers. It's nice to be a member of a group who have a common interest and don't think it is daft to go out running in horizontal rain or at crazy o'clock in the morning.
It is always fun going to races in a big group and see everyone along the way, DRR always have so many turning up for races, especially in the Grand Prix events, and the support is fantastic.
It is great to see runners progressing, putting in the work and continuing to get PBs. Recently some of the times achieved in various distances has been amazing and it's great to see the club consistently winning team prizes.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
A nice flat tarmac road with no wind.... guess I live in the wrong place for that!
What's been your favourite running event?
I have been fortunate enough to run the London Marathon a few times and really enjoyed that having watched it over the years on TV; the crowds are amazing all along the route.
I also run the Antrim Coast Half marathon every year as it is in my home town, it is fast and flat (see above) and the scenery is great along the way, though I don't always get a chance to enjoy it...
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Apart from finishing my first marathon which I thought would never end, it would certainly be running sub 3 for a marathon. The marathon more than anything takes training and preparation otherwise it can be a very long day...
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Lots - running into a lamppost breaking a tooth, face-planting when not seeing a bollard, and also getting lost on a long run with Marcus after getting dropped (standard practice). Long story short - I kept on running, expecting to see him round the next corner, while he was running loops waiting for me. We ended up 5 miles apart!
Any top tips for new runners?
The hardest part is getting out the door - arrange to meet someone for a run so you can't back out.
I probably wouldn't get out of bed for half my runs unless I knew there was someone waiting at the end of the road for me.
Mel Hayes
Member since: 2024
Hi Mel! So, when did you start running and why?
I've dabbled with running over the years, usually due to peer pressure from friends to do an event, which I then didn't train for and regretted my life choices the whole way round. I properly started running at the start of 2015. I was living in Caithness and my partner and I had split up, and suddenly I realised I didn't do anything on my own anymore and most of my friends were his family and friends. I also suddenly realised there's not a huge amount to do in the far north of Scotland (I'd been living there 3 years at this point). I joined North Highland Harriers on the recommendation of a colleague and it was the best thing I ever did (injuries aside).
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I moved back to Forfar (where I grew up) in 2023 and was running a bit, but was plagued with sciatic pain and couldn't walk properly. When I started recovering in 2024 I had put on a lot of weight and needed something to motivate me to properly get back into running again, but unfortunately the sciatic pain had other ideas! As I improved, my nervousness about coming back to a running club took over. When the club were looking for members for a new race committee I thought it would be a great stepping stone into motivating me to get back to sessions - which it was.
What do you get out of the club?
For me, the important thing for a running club to have is a sense of community and DRR has that in abundance. Club sessions motivate you to push yourself and run in a way that certainly I'd never do alone. The trail runs give you a chance to get to know people and start building friendships.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
Trails have always been my favourite thing, and I absolutely love to bomb it downhill.
What's been your favourite running event?
There's so many, and it really is hard to choose, but I'd have to say the 15 miler at the Illuminator which I did a few years ago. I went in under-prepared but there were miles of cool hills to bomb down by head torch in the dark. So much fun!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
In August 2019 a group of us ran the Great Glen Way over 3.5 days; 10 miles on the afternoon of day 1, then around 22 miles over the following 3 days. One of the best things I've done with an amazing group of folk, and I amazed myself by actually achieving it and managing to run all but the steepest hills.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Hmmm.... well I entered the Dramathon marathon in Speyside in 2018 and my training had gone brilliantly. A week before the run I tripped up over something in my house, wandering about in the dark (as you do). I thought my foot was a bit sore but convinced myself I was fine and managed a couple of easy runs before the marathon which were a bit uncomfortable bit manageable. I ran 8 miles of the marathon and I was doing really well but my foot was getting progressively worse. I realised around 8 miles I was seriously limping, and decided to stop and hobble the mile back to the last marshal I'd seen. He took me to the finish area and I could no longer weight bear. Turned out I'd been running on a broken foot. I was in a boot and on crutches for 9 weeks, unable to weight bear at all for 6 weeks, after that. Crazy what adrenaline allows you yo achieve!!
Any top tips for new runners?
Try not to worry about how fast you're running, honestly nobody in the club is thinking about how fast you're going, so the only person stressing about it is you. Find a club like DRR that's friendly and inclusive - it makes all the difference to your journey as a beginner.
Hi Mel! So, when did you start running and why?
I've dabbled with running over the years, usually due to peer pressure from friends to do an event, which I then didn't train for and regretted my life choices the whole way round. I properly started running at the start of 2015. I was living in Caithness and my partner and I had split up, and suddenly I realised I didn't do anything on my own anymore and most of my friends were his family and friends. I also suddenly realised there's not a huge amount to do in the far north of Scotland (I'd been living there 3 years at this point). I joined North Highland Harriers on the recommendation of a colleague and it was the best thing I ever did (injuries aside).
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I moved back to Forfar (where I grew up) in 2023 and was running a bit, but was plagued with sciatic pain and couldn't walk properly. When I started recovering in 2024 I had put on a lot of weight and needed something to motivate me to properly get back into running again, but unfortunately the sciatic pain had other ideas! As I improved, my nervousness about coming back to a running club took over. When the club were looking for members for a new race committee I thought it would be a great stepping stone into motivating me to get back to sessions - which it was.
What do you get out of the club?
For me, the important thing for a running club to have is a sense of community and DRR has that in abundance. Club sessions motivate you to push yourself and run in a way that certainly I'd never do alone. The trail runs give you a chance to get to know people and start building friendships.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
Trails have always been my favourite thing, and I absolutely love to bomb it downhill.
What's been your favourite running event?
There's so many, and it really is hard to choose, but I'd have to say the 15 miler at the Illuminator which I did a few years ago. I went in under-prepared but there were miles of cool hills to bomb down by head torch in the dark. So much fun!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
In August 2019 a group of us ran the Great Glen Way over 3.5 days; 10 miles on the afternoon of day 1, then around 22 miles over the following 3 days. One of the best things I've done with an amazing group of folk, and I amazed myself by actually achieving it and managing to run all but the steepest hills.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Hmmm.... well I entered the Dramathon marathon in Speyside in 2018 and my training had gone brilliantly. A week before the run I tripped up over something in my house, wandering about in the dark (as you do). I thought my foot was a bit sore but convinced myself I was fine and managed a couple of easy runs before the marathon which were a bit uncomfortable bit manageable. I ran 8 miles of the marathon and I was doing really well but my foot was getting progressively worse. I realised around 8 miles I was seriously limping, and decided to stop and hobble the mile back to the last marshal I'd seen. He took me to the finish area and I could no longer weight bear. Turned out I'd been running on a broken foot. I was in a boot and on crutches for 9 weeks, unable to weight bear at all for 6 weeks, after that. Crazy what adrenaline allows you yo achieve!!
Any top tips for new runners?
Try not to worry about how fast you're running, honestly nobody in the club is thinking about how fast you're going, so the only person stressing about it is you. Find a club like DRR that's friendly and inclusive - it makes all the difference to your journey as a beginner.
Jon Ireland
Member since: 2025
Hi Jon! So, when did you start running and why?
I’d never really been a runner but over the years I would go running on and off, mainly to improve my fitness level and I would do the odd parkrun here and there; it was always part of my fitness routine so to speak. Since joining DRR I’ve started to enjoy running more and I’d say now that not only am I doing it for fitness, but also because it’s quite enjoyable.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I joined because two of my friends (Lindsay Darling-Brackenridge and Laura D-B) suggested and encouraged me to join. If I’m honest, I’d let an event in my life take over and I wasn’t keen to do anything, let alone join a running club, however, the support and encouragement from both Lindsay and Laura to get out and meet new people led me to joining the club. Since doing so it has helped both my physical and mental health improve.
What do you get out of the club?
I enjoy the social aspect of the club, the chance to meet new people who are not only friendly but are also supportive. Even when you feel that you can’t take one more step there’s always someone willing to offer encouragement. I also quite like the challenge, having only started this year I still find some of the routes quite difficult, especially anything involving the Law!
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I’m partial to a flat, 5 to 6 mile run in the countryside. Hills are, and always will be an enemy of mine, I’m not ashamed to admit it! Unless it’s downhill of course, I love them then.
What's been your favourite running event?
I’ve only really been to the Camperdown handicap one, I found that quite hard but did enjoy it. I do intend to sign up for others soon, however planned procrastination does tend to creep in, I’ll do it though, tomorrow maybe.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I’m not nor have I ever been a great runner so I’d say my greatest achievement would definitely be comfortably running 5 or 6 miles, which is something I probably would never have done hadn’t I joined the club. I’m aiming to improve on this and sign up for some events in the near future.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Before joining the club I would attend the odd parkrun, and these would usually be organised around events such as stag dos, so I’d say getting back to the hotel at 5 in the morning after drinking all day then waking up to do a parkrun probably wasn’t the best idea. Worst 34 minutes of my life! There’s also the day I thought I’d explore whilst running and ended up in a field because the path gradually ended, then having to run through a couple hundred metres of thigh high crops to get back to the road, I’d come too far to turn back!
Any top tips for new runners?
Keep going, it gets easier I promise!
Hi Jon! So, when did you start running and why?
I’d never really been a runner but over the years I would go running on and off, mainly to improve my fitness level and I would do the odd parkrun here and there; it was always part of my fitness routine so to speak. Since joining DRR I’ve started to enjoy running more and I’d say now that not only am I doing it for fitness, but also because it’s quite enjoyable.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I joined because two of my friends (Lindsay Darling-Brackenridge and Laura D-B) suggested and encouraged me to join. If I’m honest, I’d let an event in my life take over and I wasn’t keen to do anything, let alone join a running club, however, the support and encouragement from both Lindsay and Laura to get out and meet new people led me to joining the club. Since doing so it has helped both my physical and mental health improve.
What do you get out of the club?
I enjoy the social aspect of the club, the chance to meet new people who are not only friendly but are also supportive. Even when you feel that you can’t take one more step there’s always someone willing to offer encouragement. I also quite like the challenge, having only started this year I still find some of the routes quite difficult, especially anything involving the Law!
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I’m partial to a flat, 5 to 6 mile run in the countryside. Hills are, and always will be an enemy of mine, I’m not ashamed to admit it! Unless it’s downhill of course, I love them then.
What's been your favourite running event?
I’ve only really been to the Camperdown handicap one, I found that quite hard but did enjoy it. I do intend to sign up for others soon, however planned procrastination does tend to creep in, I’ll do it though, tomorrow maybe.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I’m not nor have I ever been a great runner so I’d say my greatest achievement would definitely be comfortably running 5 or 6 miles, which is something I probably would never have done hadn’t I joined the club. I’m aiming to improve on this and sign up for some events in the near future.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Before joining the club I would attend the odd parkrun, and these would usually be organised around events such as stag dos, so I’d say getting back to the hotel at 5 in the morning after drinking all day then waking up to do a parkrun probably wasn’t the best idea. Worst 34 minutes of my life! There’s also the day I thought I’d explore whilst running and ended up in a field because the path gradually ended, then having to run through a couple hundred metres of thigh high crops to get back to the road, I’d come too far to turn back!
Any top tips for new runners?
Keep going, it gets easier I promise!
Gaynor Thomson
Member since 2024
Hi Gaynor! So, when did you start running and why?
In 2023. I decided to do the Great Scottish Run for charity, for a cause very close to my heart. I had six months to train and was not sure what that would bring! I had always kept fit when I was younger, doing karate, and swimming for my local club so was happy to give it a go. The thought of leaving my cardio and weight sessions at the gym was appealing as I felt like I wasn’t getting much back!
As soon as I laced up my new running trainers for my first training session I felt excited! It didn’t take many runs to realise that I loved running and the feeling of freedom and fun that goes with it!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After a while of training solo I started to think about running with a club. It wasn’t until I ran the Templeton 10 that I decided to contact the Roadrunners. Seeing so many from the club there and watching the team spirit made me want to be a part of it!
What do you get out of the club?
I love the Tuesday sessions and lately the Thursday Reps. I also enjoy participating in some of the club races. The longer ones tend to be my favourite. I like the different routes that we get to run and also the chats after. It’s also great to learn from people who have been running for much longer than me!
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I definitely feel more at home doing longer runs and really enjoy marathons. I have run Edinburgh Marathon and the Glasgow half twice. I love getting my music on and getting into my zone! The atmosphere is fun too! It’s also encouraging to see my time get gradually better!
What's been your favourite running event?
The club ten mile route has been my favourite club running event so far as it was fun and flat and fast! I really enjoyed it and was happy with my time.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I would say my biggest achievement for me has been my recent marathon time which was 3:49! I had hoped for 3:30 but the rain held me back a bit this year!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
The daftest thing I’ve done on a run well…anyone who knows me a bit from the Tuesday sessions knows NOT to ask me for directions! I’ve a habit of not checking the route and hoping for the best! As such, I have now got a bit of a reputation!
Being sick near the end of the Edinburgh marathon was also not one of my finer moments! Taking too many gels is definitely not good! Stopping to be sick over a wall and having a stranger rub my back before telling me "it happens to the best of us, on you go!" I felt too relieved afterwards to be mortified!
Another daft thing would be wearing road shoes to a cross country 5k at Camperdown for my first DRR race! Needless to say I got a few strange looks and a rubbish time!
Any top tips for new runners?
My top tips for new runners is to trust the process and not expect too much too soon!
Pace yourself and know when to push yourself!
Expect there to be some runs that aren’t fun but know that the next one will be better!
Have fun and enjoy getting better and faster!
Hi Gaynor! So, when did you start running and why?
In 2023. I decided to do the Great Scottish Run for charity, for a cause very close to my heart. I had six months to train and was not sure what that would bring! I had always kept fit when I was younger, doing karate, and swimming for my local club so was happy to give it a go. The thought of leaving my cardio and weight sessions at the gym was appealing as I felt like I wasn’t getting much back!
As soon as I laced up my new running trainers for my first training session I felt excited! It didn’t take many runs to realise that I loved running and the feeling of freedom and fun that goes with it!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After a while of training solo I started to think about running with a club. It wasn’t until I ran the Templeton 10 that I decided to contact the Roadrunners. Seeing so many from the club there and watching the team spirit made me want to be a part of it!
What do you get out of the club?
I love the Tuesday sessions and lately the Thursday Reps. I also enjoy participating in some of the club races. The longer ones tend to be my favourite. I like the different routes that we get to run and also the chats after. It’s also great to learn from people who have been running for much longer than me!
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I definitely feel more at home doing longer runs and really enjoy marathons. I have run Edinburgh Marathon and the Glasgow half twice. I love getting my music on and getting into my zone! The atmosphere is fun too! It’s also encouraging to see my time get gradually better!
What's been your favourite running event?
The club ten mile route has been my favourite club running event so far as it was fun and flat and fast! I really enjoyed it and was happy with my time.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I would say my biggest achievement for me has been my recent marathon time which was 3:49! I had hoped for 3:30 but the rain held me back a bit this year!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
The daftest thing I’ve done on a run well…anyone who knows me a bit from the Tuesday sessions knows NOT to ask me for directions! I’ve a habit of not checking the route and hoping for the best! As such, I have now got a bit of a reputation!
Being sick near the end of the Edinburgh marathon was also not one of my finer moments! Taking too many gels is definitely not good! Stopping to be sick over a wall and having a stranger rub my back before telling me "it happens to the best of us, on you go!" I felt too relieved afterwards to be mortified!
Another daft thing would be wearing road shoes to a cross country 5k at Camperdown for my first DRR race! Needless to say I got a few strange looks and a rubbish time!
Any top tips for new runners?
My top tips for new runners is to trust the process and not expect too much too soon!
Pace yourself and know when to push yourself!
Expect there to be some runs that aren’t fun but know that the next one will be better!
Have fun and enjoy getting better and faster!
Charlene Junkin
Member since 2021
Hi Charlene! So, when did you start running and why?
In January 2018, my friend needed an extra person for her relay team for the Belfast marathon in May. I reluctantly volunteered to run the shortest leg of four miles. I didn't think I could possibly run any further, but at least there was enough time to train (yes, I believed I needed four months to train for a four mile run). I realised I wasn't actually that bad at running, and the next year I ended up running the entire marathon (P.S. I wouldn't recommend going from not running to running a marathon in one year).
Over the years, I've come to appreciate running for the joy of it rather than just training for specific things!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I moved to Dundee in 2021 and didn't know anyone here. I had been wanting to join a running club for a few years so this was my opportunity!
What do you get out of the club?
I love the community feel of being in a club, I've met many wonderful inspirational people, and I love that I now have fellow "crazy" people to go on runs with. I love that it's encouraged me to do all sorts of running events I wouldn't have known about otherwise. And I haven't been in a while, but I've always loved Thursday reps!
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I like a pleasant paced run around the park in the sunshine, or up a hill for the views. I've been lucky enough to always live close to some great hills. Some of my favourites were Queenstown hill (Queenstown, New Zealand), Mount Eden and One Tree Hill (Auckland, New Zealand), Cavehill and Divis Mountain (Belfast), and I also enjoy a nice run up the Law (Dundee!).
Running around Central Park in New York City was also pretty cool, it felt pretty surreal just to be there!
What's been your favourite running event?
Glen Clova half marathon is beautiful, as is Glencoe half marathon. I also had such a fab time this year at the Gagie Farm Backyard Ultra!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Probably Edinburgh half marathon. I had done a lot of half marathons previously but always got tired by mile 10/11 and stopped to walk. Edinburgh was the first half I didn't lose the mental battle and I got a time I was pretty proud of (1.38.21). I didn't think I'd be able to hold a pace like that for so long!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
In 2022, the Hartley Relays landed the day after a Halloween party I attended... I was very hungover and spent much of the morning throwing up, but I didn't want to let the team down so I showed up anyway. I actually ran surprisingly fast miles but spent the time in between curled up in a ball feeling sorry for myself!
Any top tips for new runners?
Not that speed is everything, but I only started getting faster when I actually ran my easy runs at an easy pace 😊 not injured = more miles).
Also, buy proper running shoes, it's so worth it!
Hi Charlene! So, when did you start running and why?
In January 2018, my friend needed an extra person for her relay team for the Belfast marathon in May. I reluctantly volunteered to run the shortest leg of four miles. I didn't think I could possibly run any further, but at least there was enough time to train (yes, I believed I needed four months to train for a four mile run). I realised I wasn't actually that bad at running, and the next year I ended up running the entire marathon (P.S. I wouldn't recommend going from not running to running a marathon in one year).
Over the years, I've come to appreciate running for the joy of it rather than just training for specific things!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I moved to Dundee in 2021 and didn't know anyone here. I had been wanting to join a running club for a few years so this was my opportunity!
What do you get out of the club?
I love the community feel of being in a club, I've met many wonderful inspirational people, and I love that I now have fellow "crazy" people to go on runs with. I love that it's encouraged me to do all sorts of running events I wouldn't have known about otherwise. And I haven't been in a while, but I've always loved Thursday reps!
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I like a pleasant paced run around the park in the sunshine, or up a hill for the views. I've been lucky enough to always live close to some great hills. Some of my favourites were Queenstown hill (Queenstown, New Zealand), Mount Eden and One Tree Hill (Auckland, New Zealand), Cavehill and Divis Mountain (Belfast), and I also enjoy a nice run up the Law (Dundee!).
Running around Central Park in New York City was also pretty cool, it felt pretty surreal just to be there!
What's been your favourite running event?
Glen Clova half marathon is beautiful, as is Glencoe half marathon. I also had such a fab time this year at the Gagie Farm Backyard Ultra!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Probably Edinburgh half marathon. I had done a lot of half marathons previously but always got tired by mile 10/11 and stopped to walk. Edinburgh was the first half I didn't lose the mental battle and I got a time I was pretty proud of (1.38.21). I didn't think I'd be able to hold a pace like that for so long!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
In 2022, the Hartley Relays landed the day after a Halloween party I attended... I was very hungover and spent much of the morning throwing up, but I didn't want to let the team down so I showed up anyway. I actually ran surprisingly fast miles but spent the time in between curled up in a ball feeling sorry for myself!
Any top tips for new runners?
Not that speed is everything, but I only started getting faster when I actually ran my easy runs at an easy pace 😊 not injured = more miles).
Also, buy proper running shoes, it's so worth it!
Augusto Barrenchea
Member since 2024
Hi Augusto! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running around age fifteen as part of training for other sports, mainly football. A lot of our sessions included five to eight kilometre runs, and I really enjoyed those—especially running with my teammates. I’d also go out for solo runs now and then, or runs with friends and family. (All of my mum’s siblings have run for as long as I can remember, so I was lucky to grow up doing sports around them.)
I kept running for years, mixing it with other activities like weightlifting, swimming, and biking. I even took part in a few 10Ks in my hometown, but I never pushed beyond that distance.
I stopped during COVID and found it hard to get back into it. I gave it a few tries, but kept getting injured. What really got me back on track was when my good friend Joaquín Corvalán Azpiazu took me out for a run in Dundee—I haven’t stopped since!
Why did you join Dundee Road Runners?
After that run with Joaquin around Dundee, where we had perfect weather and a great time by the riverside, he invited me to a DRR session that same week—and I didn’t think twice. That was in March 2024.
I remember that first session well. It was a short 6K, everyone was really friendly, and the energy was fantastic. I was especially inspired by Joaquin and a few others who went on the long-distance route and somehow got back before I’d even finished the short one (haha).
That first session left a big impression. Everyone was so welcoming—a really nice mix of ages and experience levels. The session was well organised (I think Lorraine Dunbar and Jacqueline McCulloch were leading that day), and I left feeling genuinely inspired. It gave me the push I needed to get back into running properly.
What did you get out of the club?
First and foremost—people. It was great to meet so many lovely folks through the club. I moved to England in November 2024, but I’m still in touch with DRR members, follow many of them on Strava, and draw inspiration from the long runs and races they’re doing.
The other big thing was structure. Before DRR, all my runs looked the same—just pushing hard for 5K or 8K every time. Through the club, I learned about different types of sessions: intervals, long reps, short reps, elevation training—and proper warm-up drills, which I’d never really done before (probably one of the reasons I kept getting injured!).
I also lost my fear of long runs. Before joining, I couldn’t imagine going beyond 10K. But hearing my peers casually talk about half marathons and marathons made it feel much more achievable—and actually exciting.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I mostly stick to road running—that’s where I spend most of my time. But I really enjoyed the track session we did with DRR in 2024. I hadn’t been on a track since school, and it brought back good memories. I’ve done a few more since and definitely want to keep it going.
When the weather’s bad or I’m short on time, I’ll hop on a treadmill at the gym. It’s a different feel, but still a great workout.
Trail running is something I haven’t tried yet—but who knows, maybe one day!
What’s been your favourite running event?
After a few months training with DRR, I knew I needed to sign up for a race to keep the momentum going. In August 2024, I ran my first half marathon—in my hometown, Lima.
After all the hills in Dundee and the parkruns at Camperdown, running a flat course in Lima felt great (those hill sessions really paid off, haha). It was my first time covering that distance, and I finished feeling like I still had more in the tank. I also got to run alongside some school and uni friends, which made it even more special.
What’s your biggest achievement as a runner?
At the moment, I’d say the Miami Half Marathon. I ran it in February this year, and it’s been the toughest run I’ve done by far.
A few days before the race, I came down with the flu (or COVID? I’ll never know). I had a fever for a couple of days, and although I felt better by race day, after just 5K my heart rate shot through the roof—and I wasn’t even pushing hard. The heat and humidity didn’t help either. I seriously considered pulling out, but I’m really glad I pushed through.
What’s the daftest thing you’ve done on a run?
Not much to report during races—I haven’t done many, and I usually try to be organised and get everything ready the night before.
But I do remember a track session last May that I definitely overdid. I hadn’t been on a track since school and got a bit too excited. I gassed out after the first few laps and really struggled through the rest.
Afterwards, my phone was nearly dead, so I decided to jog back into town with whoever was heading that way. Lucky me—I joined David, Michael, Adam, and Mairi. I could tell they were taking it easy because they were chatting like they were out for a walk. Meanwhile, I was trailing a few steps behind, trying to keep up with the conversation and catch my breath! I was praying to see a street I recognised so I could stop the pain (haha). Once I did, I broke off and ended up in Five Guys—completely wiped out but very happy with a massive burger.
Any top tips for new runners?
If you’re heading out solo for a long run, a couple of things help keep me motivated. First—music. I always have a playlist ready so I don’t need to fiddle with my phone mid-run. Also, if you find loops boring (like I do), try point-to-point runs. I like planning a route from point A to point B, so I have to run back. In Dundee, one of my favourites was starting at Riverside, crossing the bridge to Newport, and retracing the route home. It makes the run feel more like a little journey.
Another thing that’s helped me avoid injuries is strength training. I’ve been hitting the gym regularly and focusing on leg sessions—deadlifts, squats, Bulgarian split squats, and calf raises. I’ve also found Garmin’s strength workout tracker surprisingly useful for keeping track of progress.
Hi Augusto! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running around age fifteen as part of training for other sports, mainly football. A lot of our sessions included five to eight kilometre runs, and I really enjoyed those—especially running with my teammates. I’d also go out for solo runs now and then, or runs with friends and family. (All of my mum’s siblings have run for as long as I can remember, so I was lucky to grow up doing sports around them.)
I kept running for years, mixing it with other activities like weightlifting, swimming, and biking. I even took part in a few 10Ks in my hometown, but I never pushed beyond that distance.
I stopped during COVID and found it hard to get back into it. I gave it a few tries, but kept getting injured. What really got me back on track was when my good friend Joaquín Corvalán Azpiazu took me out for a run in Dundee—I haven’t stopped since!
Why did you join Dundee Road Runners?
After that run with Joaquin around Dundee, where we had perfect weather and a great time by the riverside, he invited me to a DRR session that same week—and I didn’t think twice. That was in March 2024.
I remember that first session well. It was a short 6K, everyone was really friendly, and the energy was fantastic. I was especially inspired by Joaquin and a few others who went on the long-distance route and somehow got back before I’d even finished the short one (haha).
That first session left a big impression. Everyone was so welcoming—a really nice mix of ages and experience levels. The session was well organised (I think Lorraine Dunbar and Jacqueline McCulloch were leading that day), and I left feeling genuinely inspired. It gave me the push I needed to get back into running properly.
What did you get out of the club?
First and foremost—people. It was great to meet so many lovely folks through the club. I moved to England in November 2024, but I’m still in touch with DRR members, follow many of them on Strava, and draw inspiration from the long runs and races they’re doing.
The other big thing was structure. Before DRR, all my runs looked the same—just pushing hard for 5K or 8K every time. Through the club, I learned about different types of sessions: intervals, long reps, short reps, elevation training—and proper warm-up drills, which I’d never really done before (probably one of the reasons I kept getting injured!).
I also lost my fear of long runs. Before joining, I couldn’t imagine going beyond 10K. But hearing my peers casually talk about half marathons and marathons made it feel much more achievable—and actually exciting.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I mostly stick to road running—that’s where I spend most of my time. But I really enjoyed the track session we did with DRR in 2024. I hadn’t been on a track since school, and it brought back good memories. I’ve done a few more since and definitely want to keep it going.
When the weather’s bad or I’m short on time, I’ll hop on a treadmill at the gym. It’s a different feel, but still a great workout.
Trail running is something I haven’t tried yet—but who knows, maybe one day!
What’s been your favourite running event?
After a few months training with DRR, I knew I needed to sign up for a race to keep the momentum going. In August 2024, I ran my first half marathon—in my hometown, Lima.
After all the hills in Dundee and the parkruns at Camperdown, running a flat course in Lima felt great (those hill sessions really paid off, haha). It was my first time covering that distance, and I finished feeling like I still had more in the tank. I also got to run alongside some school and uni friends, which made it even more special.
What’s your biggest achievement as a runner?
At the moment, I’d say the Miami Half Marathon. I ran it in February this year, and it’s been the toughest run I’ve done by far.
A few days before the race, I came down with the flu (or COVID? I’ll never know). I had a fever for a couple of days, and although I felt better by race day, after just 5K my heart rate shot through the roof—and I wasn’t even pushing hard. The heat and humidity didn’t help either. I seriously considered pulling out, but I’m really glad I pushed through.
What’s the daftest thing you’ve done on a run?
Not much to report during races—I haven’t done many, and I usually try to be organised and get everything ready the night before.
But I do remember a track session last May that I definitely overdid. I hadn’t been on a track since school and got a bit too excited. I gassed out after the first few laps and really struggled through the rest.
Afterwards, my phone was nearly dead, so I decided to jog back into town with whoever was heading that way. Lucky me—I joined David, Michael, Adam, and Mairi. I could tell they were taking it easy because they were chatting like they were out for a walk. Meanwhile, I was trailing a few steps behind, trying to keep up with the conversation and catch my breath! I was praying to see a street I recognised so I could stop the pain (haha). Once I did, I broke off and ended up in Five Guys—completely wiped out but very happy with a massive burger.
Any top tips for new runners?
If you’re heading out solo for a long run, a couple of things help keep me motivated. First—music. I always have a playlist ready so I don’t need to fiddle with my phone mid-run. Also, if you find loops boring (like I do), try point-to-point runs. I like planning a route from point A to point B, so I have to run back. In Dundee, one of my favourites was starting at Riverside, crossing the bridge to Newport, and retracing the route home. It makes the run feel more like a little journey.
Another thing that’s helped me avoid injuries is strength training. I’ve been hitting the gym regularly and focusing on leg sessions—deadlifts, squats, Bulgarian split squats, and calf raises. I’ve also found Garmin’s strength workout tracker surprisingly useful for keeping track of progress.
Claire Thornton-Granville
Member since 2019
Hi Claire! so, when did you start running and why?
I started running at school. I mainly did track stuff. 100 and 200 metres. My dad was in the army so I've grown up watching him being really sporty; I guess it's in the blood.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I joined DRR after cutting Lynne Gibson's hair. We'd been talking about it for a few haircuts, and I was nervous about joining at first but I'm so glad I did.
What do you get out of the club?
I get so much out of the club. I love a Tuesday night where I can catch up with the gang and have a good laugh. I also love the racing side of it. I've learnt so much about pacing myself; knowing when to push for the PBs or when to take it down a peg if it's not feeling right.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I really enjoy the longer runs. 10 miles plus. Yet I get caught up in the chaos of 5ks and 10ks. I can pace myself better on longer runs.
What's been your favourite running event?
It has to be the John Muir Way ultra. I've caught the ultra bug!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Again, JMW ultra. This year I knocked 43 mins off last year's time. I asked Michael Mitchell to run with me and he paced me well. I was so chuffed. My poor toenails not so much: I lost four.☹️
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
That would be at Crieff 10k. I was running way too fast through a really rooty section and it turned into a sharp downhill. I couldn't stop my legs so ended up sliding on my heels down the hill towards the bloke in front. I was yelling to him so he jumped into the grass and then I nearly took out a DRR. I shot out the bottom of the trail and jogged off like nothing had happened. I could hear Lynsey killing herself laughing behind me.
Hi Claire! so, when did you start running and why?
I started running at school. I mainly did track stuff. 100 and 200 metres. My dad was in the army so I've grown up watching him being really sporty; I guess it's in the blood.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I joined DRR after cutting Lynne Gibson's hair. We'd been talking about it for a few haircuts, and I was nervous about joining at first but I'm so glad I did.
What do you get out of the club?
I get so much out of the club. I love a Tuesday night where I can catch up with the gang and have a good laugh. I also love the racing side of it. I've learnt so much about pacing myself; knowing when to push for the PBs or when to take it down a peg if it's not feeling right.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I really enjoy the longer runs. 10 miles plus. Yet I get caught up in the chaos of 5ks and 10ks. I can pace myself better on longer runs.
What's been your favourite running event?
It has to be the John Muir Way ultra. I've caught the ultra bug!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Again, JMW ultra. This year I knocked 43 mins off last year's time. I asked Michael Mitchell to run with me and he paced me well. I was so chuffed. My poor toenails not so much: I lost four.☹️
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
That would be at Crieff 10k. I was running way too fast through a really rooty section and it turned into a sharp downhill. I couldn't stop my legs so ended up sliding on my heels down the hill towards the bloke in front. I was yelling to him so he jumped into the grass and then I nearly took out a DRR. I shot out the bottom of the trail and jogged off like nothing had happened. I could hear Lynsey killing herself laughing behind me.
Rikki Gillespie
Member since 2024
Hi Rikki! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running as I was coming towards the end of my time playing football in 2022. I had always kept fit so instead of going to training and playing on the weekend, I went for jogs and really got the bug. I also have type 1 diabetes and it’s really amazing how much running helps to control my sugar levels throughout the day if I’ve been for a run.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
Having done a couple of events, I had seen and spoken to a couple of Roadrunners at them and thought that being a part of the club sounded really good. Coming from football and being part of a team, it did feel a bit strange doing everything solo for a while so the thought of being at events/club nights with people was appealing.
What do you get out of the club?
I get a lot of things from the club. Firstly the social aspect at the events with loads of Roadrunners there is great. Secondly, I get a lot of inspiration seeing so many people run so well, and seeing what may be possible one day is very inspiring.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I enjoy all types of runs and really try to appreciate just being able to get out and put one foot in front of the other. I do particularly enjoy an easy jog on the trail not too far from my house, especially the day after a slightly harder run. I may enjoy this too much as a few others from Arbroath started to take the mick that I go that way too often. (I think at one point, Strava pointed out that I'd gone that way 82 times in 90 days.)
What's been your favourite running event?
My favourite event is Valencia Marathon. I have done it twice now and I'm doing it for a third time at the end of this year. It's a great city, and having heard so much about the race via podcasts etc, experiencing it for myself I just couldn’t believe how good it was. Since I’ve stopped playing football I have dived headfirst into running and watch a lot of it, and I just couldn’t believe how many professional runners I saw whilst over there. It got to the point where I think I was annoying my wife pointing everyone out and telling her their PBs and what training methods they follow..poor karla! Luckily, I'm going over with Ewan Duthie from the club this year, so he will have to put up with me for a few days. On my shakeout run the day before the marathon last year, I bumped into Kenenisa Bekele, and it was quite embarrassing how much of a fan boy I turned into when I asked him for a photo.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
My biggest achievement.. it's probably getting out of bed at 5:30am every day to get my run done, so I can get to work for 8:30am and spend my nights with my son. Some mornings are harder than others but I'm sure as everyone knows, once you’re out the door it doesn’t take long to feel good for getting up.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I’ve done a few daft things. Falling flat on my face at my first DRR training session has to be up there. But, most recently (and sorry, it's a toilet story)...
The trail I mentioned before, well, I see the same woman walking her dog pretty much every day. This particular day, I couldn’t wait any longer, so as I passed her and said the usual “good morning”, I kept running a few minutes, checked it was clear and pulled off to the side. Well, to my astonishment she must have been stuck for time this day and had not gone to the end of the trail. Instead, she turned back to find me in a position nobody should witness at 6am. We now say good morning to each other with a bit of a smile/embarrassment.
Any top tips for new runners?
For new runners, I’d say the same as what many others have said..if you enjoy your running then take time when you're out to appreciate it, and try not to be too hard on yourself if a run doesn’t go to plan (I think I'm talking to myself here as well).
Hi Rikki! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running as I was coming towards the end of my time playing football in 2022. I had always kept fit so instead of going to training and playing on the weekend, I went for jogs and really got the bug. I also have type 1 diabetes and it’s really amazing how much running helps to control my sugar levels throughout the day if I’ve been for a run.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
Having done a couple of events, I had seen and spoken to a couple of Roadrunners at them and thought that being a part of the club sounded really good. Coming from football and being part of a team, it did feel a bit strange doing everything solo for a while so the thought of being at events/club nights with people was appealing.
What do you get out of the club?
I get a lot of things from the club. Firstly the social aspect at the events with loads of Roadrunners there is great. Secondly, I get a lot of inspiration seeing so many people run so well, and seeing what may be possible one day is very inspiring.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I enjoy all types of runs and really try to appreciate just being able to get out and put one foot in front of the other. I do particularly enjoy an easy jog on the trail not too far from my house, especially the day after a slightly harder run. I may enjoy this too much as a few others from Arbroath started to take the mick that I go that way too often. (I think at one point, Strava pointed out that I'd gone that way 82 times in 90 days.)
What's been your favourite running event?
My favourite event is Valencia Marathon. I have done it twice now and I'm doing it for a third time at the end of this year. It's a great city, and having heard so much about the race via podcasts etc, experiencing it for myself I just couldn’t believe how good it was. Since I’ve stopped playing football I have dived headfirst into running and watch a lot of it, and I just couldn’t believe how many professional runners I saw whilst over there. It got to the point where I think I was annoying my wife pointing everyone out and telling her their PBs and what training methods they follow..poor karla! Luckily, I'm going over with Ewan Duthie from the club this year, so he will have to put up with me for a few days. On my shakeout run the day before the marathon last year, I bumped into Kenenisa Bekele, and it was quite embarrassing how much of a fan boy I turned into when I asked him for a photo.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
My biggest achievement.. it's probably getting out of bed at 5:30am every day to get my run done, so I can get to work for 8:30am and spend my nights with my son. Some mornings are harder than others but I'm sure as everyone knows, once you’re out the door it doesn’t take long to feel good for getting up.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I’ve done a few daft things. Falling flat on my face at my first DRR training session has to be up there. But, most recently (and sorry, it's a toilet story)...
The trail I mentioned before, well, I see the same woman walking her dog pretty much every day. This particular day, I couldn’t wait any longer, so as I passed her and said the usual “good morning”, I kept running a few minutes, checked it was clear and pulled off to the side. Well, to my astonishment she must have been stuck for time this day and had not gone to the end of the trail. Instead, she turned back to find me in a position nobody should witness at 6am. We now say good morning to each other with a bit of a smile/embarrassment.
Any top tips for new runners?
For new runners, I’d say the same as what many others have said..if you enjoy your running then take time when you're out to appreciate it, and try not to be too hard on yourself if a run doesn’t go to plan (I think I'm talking to myself here as well).
John Tierney
Member since 2016
Hi, JT! So, when did you start running and why?
I was late to running, 2012 to aid a change to a more healthier lifestyle. I started running with the dogs under the cover of darkness after some shocking New Year photos indicated I needed to lose weight. I went down to Grassy beach and ran-walked it initially at dusk, and then progressed to the hillier Baxter Park which was beside where I lived. In the summer of 2012 my brother-in-law encouraged me to enter the Stromness Shopping week 10k. Quite a hilly route but nevertheless I was surprised by how well I did, and started to enter more races after that.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After completing the Templeton Trail race in 2015, I was chatting to Lynne Gibson who spoke about the benefits of joining the club, especially as I was planning to run my first marathon the next year. I was invited along to join members on the Sunday long run. The first one I did was on a rather wet morning and involved running through a flood on a country road. I wasn’t deterred and soon regularly attended the SLR. I was advised not to join until the following February as there were so few races left. So, I joined up the next year and my first race as a member was the Forfar multi terrain half marathon. This also involved some flooding though it didn’t put me off as I have completed it several times since.
What do you get out of the club?
The club gave me a structure to improve my running and the confidence to tackle new challenges and improved my times. Without being a member of the club I would never have gone on to complete multiple marathons and several ultra marathons. The camaraderie and support from members within the club is wonderful. The strong friendships developed with other club members is an ongoing reward and possibly the reason I ran ultra marathons!
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I tend to enjoy longer runs, the buzz of competing in a big city half or marathon is amazing, but I equally enjoy the challenge of a more rural or hilly route these days. Bagging a few Munros on a run seems to be a new trend.
What’s been your favourite running event?
My first marathon the St Magnus marathon in my homeland will always be special as it was such an achievement to complete. However my favourite has to be the Venice marathon; it’s so amazing to run over the bridge to Venice and then run past some of the most famous sights of the city. London Marathon of course is also amazing.
What’s your biggest achievement as a runner?
Getting a sub 3:30 marathon on my second visit to Venice is the one that I would class as my best achievement.
What’s the daftest thing you’ve done on a run?
I think the daftest thing was forgetting to take my phone when I was training for Dundee marathon in 2015. Out on a long run, I picked up an injury and had to walk home from the Ferry. An important lesson learnt.
Any top tips for new runners?
My top tips would be just get out there and enjoy it whether with a friend or running solo. Mixing up locations and terrain helps work different muscles and hinders boredom that comes with repeating the same route.
Don’t compare yourself to others focus on your own goals and achievements, whatever they might be.
Hi, JT! So, when did you start running and why?
I was late to running, 2012 to aid a change to a more healthier lifestyle. I started running with the dogs under the cover of darkness after some shocking New Year photos indicated I needed to lose weight. I went down to Grassy beach and ran-walked it initially at dusk, and then progressed to the hillier Baxter Park which was beside where I lived. In the summer of 2012 my brother-in-law encouraged me to enter the Stromness Shopping week 10k. Quite a hilly route but nevertheless I was surprised by how well I did, and started to enter more races after that.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After completing the Templeton Trail race in 2015, I was chatting to Lynne Gibson who spoke about the benefits of joining the club, especially as I was planning to run my first marathon the next year. I was invited along to join members on the Sunday long run. The first one I did was on a rather wet morning and involved running through a flood on a country road. I wasn’t deterred and soon regularly attended the SLR. I was advised not to join until the following February as there were so few races left. So, I joined up the next year and my first race as a member was the Forfar multi terrain half marathon. This also involved some flooding though it didn’t put me off as I have completed it several times since.
What do you get out of the club?
The club gave me a structure to improve my running and the confidence to tackle new challenges and improved my times. Without being a member of the club I would never have gone on to complete multiple marathons and several ultra marathons. The camaraderie and support from members within the club is wonderful. The strong friendships developed with other club members is an ongoing reward and possibly the reason I ran ultra marathons!
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I tend to enjoy longer runs, the buzz of competing in a big city half or marathon is amazing, but I equally enjoy the challenge of a more rural or hilly route these days. Bagging a few Munros on a run seems to be a new trend.
What’s been your favourite running event?
My first marathon the St Magnus marathon in my homeland will always be special as it was such an achievement to complete. However my favourite has to be the Venice marathon; it’s so amazing to run over the bridge to Venice and then run past some of the most famous sights of the city. London Marathon of course is also amazing.
What’s your biggest achievement as a runner?
Getting a sub 3:30 marathon on my second visit to Venice is the one that I would class as my best achievement.
What’s the daftest thing you’ve done on a run?
I think the daftest thing was forgetting to take my phone when I was training for Dundee marathon in 2015. Out on a long run, I picked up an injury and had to walk home from the Ferry. An important lesson learnt.
Any top tips for new runners?
My top tips would be just get out there and enjoy it whether with a friend or running solo. Mixing up locations and terrain helps work different muscles and hinders boredom that comes with repeating the same route.
Don’t compare yourself to others focus on your own goals and achievements, whatever they might be.
Ernesto Bonafé
Member since 2023
Hi Ernesto! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running when I joined Dundee Roadrunners in November 2023. I was looking for regular exercise, and running seemed to be a good option. Until then I was doing a bit of football, basketball, tennis, badminton, swimming, cycling, and the gym…but I knew that for aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, running was the mother of all sports. The problem was, I thought, that ‘only’ running was boring. DRR proved me wrong.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I was brought into the club by Joaquín Corvalán Azpiazu, a great runner and friend from Chile. His passion and enthusiasm convinced me to try, especially after we had some fun playing tennis together. Upgrading my status from club guest to member was largely thanks to the role of tail runners, especially Phil Gillespie, Iain Luke and Josh McKay, who during my first weeks ensured that I would not get lost in the dark and would eventually reach the finish line. Then I opened a Strava account and found that other’s activities can help as a friendly reminder and wake-up call, which I like.
What do you get out of the club?
Having lived in several countries in continental Europe (Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, France and Spain) my next challenge was living and integrating in the UK, as I accepted a job offer in Dundee. DRR has helped me a lot with this, showing me British/Scottish culture at its best.
Let me explain briefly.
1) The creativity is overwhelming. There are many summer and winter routes, as well as club races, such as the Twin Peaks, Clatto, Handicap, Santa and the Galaxy run, so the fun is continued throughout the year. Short, long and hill reps, which alternate weekly, are also very creative. Recent reps in Victoria Park were branded the Three Gates of Hell. I’ve heard that trail runs can be quite adventurous as well.
2) Everything is very well organised, thanks to the amazing volunteering work of committee members, marshals, and coaches: Ged, Morag Taggart, Jacqueline McCulloch, Lorraine Dunbar and Matt Buck.
3) The spirit and determination of the DRR community is inspirational. A cold, windy and rainy winter night will certainly not deter a dedicated runner.
4) An atmosphere of inclusiveness and camaraderie is present all the way; before, during and after each run. Everyone, of all ages and abilities, from Dundee to any part of the world, is welcome. Tail runners ensure that no one is left behind, literally.
5) Individual effort and excellence take centre stage. Each runner pursues their own set of PBs, milestones, and even a marathon agenda: Loch Ness, London, Manchester, Chicago, Berlin, Valencia... Some even run ultras! Individual performance is celebrated at the Annual General Meeting and Christmas Dinner. To conclude, before coming to Dundee I knew about friendly and lively British pubs (local ones and overseas in Mallorca). Thanks to DRR I have discovered and embraced a wonderful angle of the British/Scottish society and culture.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I enjoy all types of runs from reps to 4 miles and 10 km, especially once they’re finished! While running I like to take deep breaths and enjoy the views around me, in scenic places like Camperdown, Clatto, Tentsmuir, Wormit, Forfar, St Andrews, and Crieff. I hope to keep adding to the list of beautiful and inspiring places to run. I am also about to expand the types of runs I do, which I hope I can still enjoy.
What’s been your favourite running event?
I have no favourite running event, they all make my day. For me it was very exotic to run in a golf course in Craigtoun Country Park during the Fife Midweek Series. For most of that race I paced a runner from another club, who I managed to pass at the finish line. I like when I get some energy left to do the final sprint. Another special event for me is parkrun, where hundreds of people meet on Saturday morning to start the weekend with a 5km run, sometimes followed by a coffee, with Dave Martin, Manu Alderete, Marvine Chrispine and other buddies.
What’s your biggest achievement as a runner?
My biggest achievement so far has been to become a runner. There is always a good reason (excuse) not to do it, so the fact of tying my shoes and going out for a run is an achievement worthy of celebration. Beyond this running routine, I have signed up for my first ever half marathon on 5 October in Glasgow, and I have started building miles with Claire Thornton-granville and Lynsey Langlands to get ready. Glasgow is a very vibrant city, and I am looking forward to taking part in the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run 2025.
What is the daftest thing you’ve done on a run?
Entering a private garden and disturbing the quiet evening of a couple was a pretty daft situation. Lost in the same garden I found Josh, who apparently had made the same mistake as me. The landlord was surprised to find us both in his property and the explanation that we were following a poorly marked route was equally surprising to him.
Another daft thing that happened on that same day (it actually happens to me quite often) was to somehow underestimate the effort required. This came as a brutal shock when, emerging from the forest, I saw in front of me the Hill of Tarvit to be climbed. At least I was not wearing a cotton T-shirt, which is another daft thing that I usually do.
Still another daft thing was to carefully study the Tuesday 4 mile route and then follow the 6 mile one by mistake. I ran with Leon and Daniel Fields, and I was astonishingly faster than David Webster, who was tail running. The last daft thing (for now) is not to wear the club vest in group photos, except when I borrowed it from Rebecca Garside and Keirra Small. After the Crieff 10km, I ordered my own!
Any top tips for new runners?
I can share top tips that worked for me as a new runner. I did not care at all about time, pace or distance. Considering that the body needs to exercise, and the brain needs to get oxygen, running is fit for purpose and the benefits clearly outweigh the effort (pain?). Many Instagram gurus are right when they say that running helps to improve your lifestyle.
Another tip is to keep in mind that the first 10 minutes might be more difficult, until you reach your own cruising speed. For me the key is to run with others, as I get the energy of a team sport.
Finally, I normally do not listen to music when I am running, but Adele’s lyrics sometimes come to my mind asking myself: Should I give up? Or should I just keep chasing pavements? The right approach to running is certainly the latter because, even if it leads nowhere, running is still magical.
Hi Ernesto! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running when I joined Dundee Roadrunners in November 2023. I was looking for regular exercise, and running seemed to be a good option. Until then I was doing a bit of football, basketball, tennis, badminton, swimming, cycling, and the gym…but I knew that for aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, running was the mother of all sports. The problem was, I thought, that ‘only’ running was boring. DRR proved me wrong.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I was brought into the club by Joaquín Corvalán Azpiazu, a great runner and friend from Chile. His passion and enthusiasm convinced me to try, especially after we had some fun playing tennis together. Upgrading my status from club guest to member was largely thanks to the role of tail runners, especially Phil Gillespie, Iain Luke and Josh McKay, who during my first weeks ensured that I would not get lost in the dark and would eventually reach the finish line. Then I opened a Strava account and found that other’s activities can help as a friendly reminder and wake-up call, which I like.
What do you get out of the club?
Having lived in several countries in continental Europe (Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, France and Spain) my next challenge was living and integrating in the UK, as I accepted a job offer in Dundee. DRR has helped me a lot with this, showing me British/Scottish culture at its best.
Let me explain briefly.
1) The creativity is overwhelming. There are many summer and winter routes, as well as club races, such as the Twin Peaks, Clatto, Handicap, Santa and the Galaxy run, so the fun is continued throughout the year. Short, long and hill reps, which alternate weekly, are also very creative. Recent reps in Victoria Park were branded the Three Gates of Hell. I’ve heard that trail runs can be quite adventurous as well.
2) Everything is very well organised, thanks to the amazing volunteering work of committee members, marshals, and coaches: Ged, Morag Taggart, Jacqueline McCulloch, Lorraine Dunbar and Matt Buck.
3) The spirit and determination of the DRR community is inspirational. A cold, windy and rainy winter night will certainly not deter a dedicated runner.
4) An atmosphere of inclusiveness and camaraderie is present all the way; before, during and after each run. Everyone, of all ages and abilities, from Dundee to any part of the world, is welcome. Tail runners ensure that no one is left behind, literally.
5) Individual effort and excellence take centre stage. Each runner pursues their own set of PBs, milestones, and even a marathon agenda: Loch Ness, London, Manchester, Chicago, Berlin, Valencia... Some even run ultras! Individual performance is celebrated at the Annual General Meeting and Christmas Dinner. To conclude, before coming to Dundee I knew about friendly and lively British pubs (local ones and overseas in Mallorca). Thanks to DRR I have discovered and embraced a wonderful angle of the British/Scottish society and culture.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I enjoy all types of runs from reps to 4 miles and 10 km, especially once they’re finished! While running I like to take deep breaths and enjoy the views around me, in scenic places like Camperdown, Clatto, Tentsmuir, Wormit, Forfar, St Andrews, and Crieff. I hope to keep adding to the list of beautiful and inspiring places to run. I am also about to expand the types of runs I do, which I hope I can still enjoy.
What’s been your favourite running event?
I have no favourite running event, they all make my day. For me it was very exotic to run in a golf course in Craigtoun Country Park during the Fife Midweek Series. For most of that race I paced a runner from another club, who I managed to pass at the finish line. I like when I get some energy left to do the final sprint. Another special event for me is parkrun, where hundreds of people meet on Saturday morning to start the weekend with a 5km run, sometimes followed by a coffee, with Dave Martin, Manu Alderete, Marvine Chrispine and other buddies.
What’s your biggest achievement as a runner?
My biggest achievement so far has been to become a runner. There is always a good reason (excuse) not to do it, so the fact of tying my shoes and going out for a run is an achievement worthy of celebration. Beyond this running routine, I have signed up for my first ever half marathon on 5 October in Glasgow, and I have started building miles with Claire Thornton-granville and Lynsey Langlands to get ready. Glasgow is a very vibrant city, and I am looking forward to taking part in the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run 2025.
What is the daftest thing you’ve done on a run?
Entering a private garden and disturbing the quiet evening of a couple was a pretty daft situation. Lost in the same garden I found Josh, who apparently had made the same mistake as me. The landlord was surprised to find us both in his property and the explanation that we were following a poorly marked route was equally surprising to him.
Another daft thing that happened on that same day (it actually happens to me quite often) was to somehow underestimate the effort required. This came as a brutal shock when, emerging from the forest, I saw in front of me the Hill of Tarvit to be climbed. At least I was not wearing a cotton T-shirt, which is another daft thing that I usually do.
Still another daft thing was to carefully study the Tuesday 4 mile route and then follow the 6 mile one by mistake. I ran with Leon and Daniel Fields, and I was astonishingly faster than David Webster, who was tail running. The last daft thing (for now) is not to wear the club vest in group photos, except when I borrowed it from Rebecca Garside and Keirra Small. After the Crieff 10km, I ordered my own!
Any top tips for new runners?
I can share top tips that worked for me as a new runner. I did not care at all about time, pace or distance. Considering that the body needs to exercise, and the brain needs to get oxygen, running is fit for purpose and the benefits clearly outweigh the effort (pain?). Many Instagram gurus are right when they say that running helps to improve your lifestyle.
Another tip is to keep in mind that the first 10 minutes might be more difficult, until you reach your own cruising speed. For me the key is to run with others, as I get the energy of a team sport.
Finally, I normally do not listen to music when I am running, but Adele’s lyrics sometimes come to my mind asking myself: Should I give up? Or should I just keep chasing pavements? The right approach to running is certainly the latter because, even if it leads nowhere, running is still magical.
Shona Candlish
Member since 2022
Hi Shona! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running as part of my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, but came to love it when I was at university. I started getting into racing when a friend asked if I'd keep her company when she ran the Mull 10k. It sounded like a great trip so I thought I should probably put some proper training in!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After training during Covid with the Wee County Harriers (Mon the Wee County ), I knew I wanted to find a new running club when I moved. And coming along to DRR helped with both my navigating around a new city and getting to know some folks here.
What do you get out of the club?
I love coming along on a Tuesday night after a busy day at work for an easy, chatty run.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I really enjoy road running! That said, I also love feeling like I'm going to be blown away on gusty coastal runs, or getting to run by the beach at sunrise, too.
What's been your favourite running event?
This is a tough one. Alloa Half Marathon will always be a favourite for me - running along the Hillfoots Road is the epitome of home for me. The run at the end of the NYD Triathlon in Edinburgh was also pretty great - I had completed a Marcothon in the December so to cap the triathlon off with a loop of Arthur's Seat on a brilliantly sunny but cold morning was really satisfying. And then there's the Loch Ness Marathon with lovely small crowds in each village dotted along the loch every few miles.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Going sub-60 on my 10k was a big milestone, especially as I hit it right before we went into our first COVID lockdown and it felt like the world was closing in around us. Getting my sub-2 around Alloa, however, was really major because I hit that PB and had a great time out on the course while doing it!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Yeah... running without glasses or contact lenses for a while was not my smartest idea! I also ran the Amsterdam marathon with a few bananas and some apple juice as my breakfast. I've done a lot of pre-race fuel learning since then, that's for sure.
Any top tips for new runners?
Run for a fun time, and the fast times will come (if you want them to). Remember a mile is a mile (or a 5k is a 5k etc etc), however fast you walk / jog / run it. And if you're running more than 10k, take some water - they would have given it to you at a race!
Hi Shona! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running as part of my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, but came to love it when I was at university. I started getting into racing when a friend asked if I'd keep her company when she ran the Mull 10k. It sounded like a great trip so I thought I should probably put some proper training in!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After training during Covid with the Wee County Harriers (Mon the Wee County ), I knew I wanted to find a new running club when I moved. And coming along to DRR helped with both my navigating around a new city and getting to know some folks here.
What do you get out of the club?
I love coming along on a Tuesday night after a busy day at work for an easy, chatty run.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I really enjoy road running! That said, I also love feeling like I'm going to be blown away on gusty coastal runs, or getting to run by the beach at sunrise, too.
What's been your favourite running event?
This is a tough one. Alloa Half Marathon will always be a favourite for me - running along the Hillfoots Road is the epitome of home for me. The run at the end of the NYD Triathlon in Edinburgh was also pretty great - I had completed a Marcothon in the December so to cap the triathlon off with a loop of Arthur's Seat on a brilliantly sunny but cold morning was really satisfying. And then there's the Loch Ness Marathon with lovely small crowds in each village dotted along the loch every few miles.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Going sub-60 on my 10k was a big milestone, especially as I hit it right before we went into our first COVID lockdown and it felt like the world was closing in around us. Getting my sub-2 around Alloa, however, was really major because I hit that PB and had a great time out on the course while doing it!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Yeah... running without glasses or contact lenses for a while was not my smartest idea! I also ran the Amsterdam marathon with a few bananas and some apple juice as my breakfast. I've done a lot of pre-race fuel learning since then, that's for sure.
Any top tips for new runners?
Run for a fun time, and the fast times will come (if you want them to). Remember a mile is a mile (or a 5k is a 5k etc etc), however fast you walk / jog / run it. And if you're running more than 10k, take some water - they would have given it to you at a race!
Graham Robertson
Member since 2019/2020.
Hi Graham! When did you start running and why?
I started running when I found out I was going to become a dad and it gained momentum from there. I was motivated to try and be more healthy so I could enjoy my time with my daughter. I still don’t actually consider myself a runner when I see the speed some of our fellow members can move!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
Honestly? Peer pressure! Shaun Anderson had been inviting (being polite) me along for a while before I gave in. I had met Shaun through playing Korfball (don’t ask) and we had become friends through this. We had been running for a while together before I joined. So in short, it's Shaun’s fault!
What do you get out of the club?
I find this different depending on the day of the week; friendship, motivation, stress relief, and exercise. The benefits are endless for me, and a huge part of my continued membership.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
Define enjoy? I’d have to say that for me the run itself can be very difficult/challenging, but the satisfaction at the end is the reward. If I was forced to choose, a chatty run with no real pressure would be my choice.
What's been your favourite running event?
I’d have to say London Marathon this year. I was fortunate to get in via the ballot after years of saying I would never apply. While being one of the hardest things I have ever completed, the atmosphere and energy which accompanied it is so difficult to describe. A lifetime experience achieved and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Surviving! Ha ha! A couple of things which for me personally mean a lot, completing 12 half marathon races in 2024, and navigating the marathon.
I am also proud to have raised some money for various charities through running, in particular running the Bristol Half last year in memory of a work colleague who we sadly lost to the horrible BiPolar disorder. Being able to run with her family on the day, raising awareness and money was so much more satisfying than a t-shirt and a medal.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I think we have had enough poo stories so for me it would be driving to Glasgow Half to discover that I had not packed my running trainers so had to run in a normal pair.
Any other stories are a complete fabrication of the truth!
Any top tips for new runners?
As the marketing folks at Nike would remind us “Just do it”!
So many people think they will not be fast enough or will not be able to finish, my response to that is "who cares?!"
Surround yourself with good people who make you feel good about yourself, and leave the rest behind.
Author Mina Samuels wrote “our running shoes have magic in them. The power to transform a bad day into a good day; frustration into speed; self-doubt into confidence; chocolate cake into muscle”.
Hi Graham! When did you start running and why?
I started running when I found out I was going to become a dad and it gained momentum from there. I was motivated to try and be more healthy so I could enjoy my time with my daughter. I still don’t actually consider myself a runner when I see the speed some of our fellow members can move!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
Honestly? Peer pressure! Shaun Anderson had been inviting (being polite) me along for a while before I gave in. I had met Shaun through playing Korfball (don’t ask) and we had become friends through this. We had been running for a while together before I joined. So in short, it's Shaun’s fault!
What do you get out of the club?
I find this different depending on the day of the week; friendship, motivation, stress relief, and exercise. The benefits are endless for me, and a huge part of my continued membership.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
Define enjoy? I’d have to say that for me the run itself can be very difficult/challenging, but the satisfaction at the end is the reward. If I was forced to choose, a chatty run with no real pressure would be my choice.
What's been your favourite running event?
I’d have to say London Marathon this year. I was fortunate to get in via the ballot after years of saying I would never apply. While being one of the hardest things I have ever completed, the atmosphere and energy which accompanied it is so difficult to describe. A lifetime experience achieved and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Surviving! Ha ha! A couple of things which for me personally mean a lot, completing 12 half marathon races in 2024, and navigating the marathon.
I am also proud to have raised some money for various charities through running, in particular running the Bristol Half last year in memory of a work colleague who we sadly lost to the horrible BiPolar disorder. Being able to run with her family on the day, raising awareness and money was so much more satisfying than a t-shirt and a medal.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I think we have had enough poo stories so for me it would be driving to Glasgow Half to discover that I had not packed my running trainers so had to run in a normal pair.
Any other stories are a complete fabrication of the truth!
Any top tips for new runners?
As the marketing folks at Nike would remind us “Just do it”!
So many people think they will not be fast enough or will not be able to finish, my response to that is "who cares?!"
Surround yourself with good people who make you feel good about yourself, and leave the rest behind.
Author Mina Samuels wrote “our running shoes have magic in them. The power to transform a bad day into a good day; frustration into speed; self-doubt into confidence; chocolate cake into muscle”.
Tim Heilbronn
Member since: August 2015
Hi Tim! So, when did you start running and why?
I actively avoided all “organised sport” at school and firmly believed that the words “enjoyable” and “run” couldn’t possibly appear in the same sentence! But I was always active; enjoying skiing, and as a keen, very fast walker. Richard Toller will say that there is not a lot of difference between my walking and running speeds…and this was certainly true going up the Sidlaw Hills on the “ABC” MNTB (Monday Night Trail Blazers) route, one of the first times he encountered me! It wasn’t until 2015, after a few years of doing the 54 mile Cateran Yomp, in aid of The Soldiers Charity, and being the fastest Mixed Team with Jackie Heilbronn, that I decided at the age of 58, in order to get round faster, we at least needed to jog more of the flat and downhill sections, and should do more training.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
As part of our plan to be joggers, with no real intention of becoming runners Jackie had heard about parkrun, through a work colleague at the University, and had sorted us both with barcodes and promised that we would attend the coming Saturday. Saturday arrived…and it was raining when we woke up, so we stayed in bed! Of course we hadn’t realised that “it never rains at parkrun”, and would dry up by 9:30am! Anyway, Jackie got thoroughly told off by her work colleague on Monday, and the following Saturday we finally made our debut, achieved a respectable time (though it would take me a few weeks to “conquer” Gourdie Brae, and I still recall the joy of the first time I managed it!), and went along to the Wildlife Café afterwards. To be sociable, we joined a group of cheery looking people at an outside table, who turned out to include Simon Knox, Jacqueline McCulloch and Lorraine Dunbar, who asked us if we knew about the Dundee Roadrunners. They were such good “evangelists” that I agreed to go along to the Club’s “Auchterhouse Hill Race” the following week as a Guest, and after a) being made so welcome, and b) not coming last (quite!), we both signed up. The Club was a lot smaller at that time, and I remember John Mill being delighted that our joining the Club took them over the 100 mark. It has been great to see the Club grow and become ever more inclusive since then.
What do you get out of the club?
Some newer members may be going Tim… who???…as I haven’t been to Tuesday and Thursday training for quite a long time, and rarely do any races (I turn 69 next birthday…not that that should be an excuse seeing the amazing running of the likes of Malcolm Forbes…huge respect!), but I still love doing MNTB, particularly as part of the Team leading the monthly “easier group” on the Third Monday.
What I have really got out of the Club though has been all the friendship, encouragement, and enthusiasm from some truly inspiring individuals over the past ten years.
But the best thing was actually being able to “give something back” running “TiGers” for a few years before COVID. brought an end to it. This “Transition Group” Programme, originally introduced and run for its first year by Simon Knox, before Jackie and I took it over for a few years (with help from Linda Craddock, and Douglas Stirling and Gail Stirling), took groups of about a dozen new (or newly-returned) runners from 5km to 10km over a 12-week or so period, building both their stamina and confidence. This “peer support group” encouraged so many people, and was, I think, one of the best things the club ever did, and in part led to the much greater inclusivity we see today.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
“Sociable” ones for me now…5km to 10km…at a more relaxed, non-competitive pace, particularly on trails, and if I can bring my dogs (Haggis and Spud) to help pull me along, even better! I used to enjoy half marathons, but only did one marathon (Paris) as part of my bucket list when I hit 60…which I decided was enough!
What's been your favourite running event?
This has been mentioned by others in the past…The Tour of Fife series of different events over a week. The camaraderie was just amazing, and enabled some great competition between Jackie and I…she, of course, always beats me hollow on good surfaces, but I could win back points by beating her on more “technical surfaces”. It was all down to the final day, when we were neck and neck on points, and (as Simon Knox, then Club Secretary, reported in his daily roundup) “a year’s worth of washing up duties is at stake in the Heilbronn household”. Sadly I managed to pull my back and had to drop out of the challenge. My one and only chance ever to possibly beat her!
I also absolutely loved some “mixed” events I did with DRR friends - Lu Lita, John McIntosh and Rachel Toth, doing a combination of 10km runs with obstacles! Total Warrior; Beast at Banchory etc. A wonderful way to embrace your inner child; and an awful lot of mud!!!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Despite saying I prefer shorter distances, I was good on keeping going, and loved doing the 54 mile Cateran Yomp during a seven year period from 2012, normally being the Fastest Mixed Team with Jackie, but my finest moment being the overall Fastest Team, accompanied by a very patient Elaine Omand (her having a “relaxing run” after doing a marathon the week before to take “the edge” off her, so I could, kind-of, keep up) in 2017, when Jackie had torn her rotator cuff and was off running.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Errrm…actually signing up to a race!
Shortly after joining the Club in late August 2015, and getting a few PBs at Camperdown parkrun, we heard about “The Templeton Ten” that was taking place in a few weeks at the beginning of November. How hard could it be, we thought, to double up from a 5km to a 10km? So we signed up. It was a few weeks later, with the race fairly imminent, that we discovered that it wasn’t ten KILOMETRES…it was ten MILES!!! There were a few gulps about what we had let ourselves in for, and a “steep learning curve” for the training (and an even steeper hill in the run up to Auchterhouse and beyond!), but we survived, and loved doing both it, and enjoying the legendary DRR refreshments that followed.
Any top tips for new runners?
Thinking back on our first, failed attempt to get to parkrun, and something we used to tell the TiGers: “You’re going to have a shower when you get home, so just consider any rain your ‘prewash’ and enjoy it!”
“The hardest distance is the six inches between your ears! You NEVER EVER regret doing a run.”
Hi Tim! So, when did you start running and why?
I actively avoided all “organised sport” at school and firmly believed that the words “enjoyable” and “run” couldn’t possibly appear in the same sentence! But I was always active; enjoying skiing, and as a keen, very fast walker. Richard Toller will say that there is not a lot of difference between my walking and running speeds…and this was certainly true going up the Sidlaw Hills on the “ABC” MNTB (Monday Night Trail Blazers) route, one of the first times he encountered me! It wasn’t until 2015, after a few years of doing the 54 mile Cateran Yomp, in aid of The Soldiers Charity, and being the fastest Mixed Team with Jackie Heilbronn, that I decided at the age of 58, in order to get round faster, we at least needed to jog more of the flat and downhill sections, and should do more training.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
As part of our plan to be joggers, with no real intention of becoming runners Jackie had heard about parkrun, through a work colleague at the University, and had sorted us both with barcodes and promised that we would attend the coming Saturday. Saturday arrived…and it was raining when we woke up, so we stayed in bed! Of course we hadn’t realised that “it never rains at parkrun”, and would dry up by 9:30am! Anyway, Jackie got thoroughly told off by her work colleague on Monday, and the following Saturday we finally made our debut, achieved a respectable time (though it would take me a few weeks to “conquer” Gourdie Brae, and I still recall the joy of the first time I managed it!), and went along to the Wildlife Café afterwards. To be sociable, we joined a group of cheery looking people at an outside table, who turned out to include Simon Knox, Jacqueline McCulloch and Lorraine Dunbar, who asked us if we knew about the Dundee Roadrunners. They were such good “evangelists” that I agreed to go along to the Club’s “Auchterhouse Hill Race” the following week as a Guest, and after a) being made so welcome, and b) not coming last (quite!), we both signed up. The Club was a lot smaller at that time, and I remember John Mill being delighted that our joining the Club took them over the 100 mark. It has been great to see the Club grow and become ever more inclusive since then.
What do you get out of the club?
Some newer members may be going Tim… who???…as I haven’t been to Tuesday and Thursday training for quite a long time, and rarely do any races (I turn 69 next birthday…not that that should be an excuse seeing the amazing running of the likes of Malcolm Forbes…huge respect!), but I still love doing MNTB, particularly as part of the Team leading the monthly “easier group” on the Third Monday.
What I have really got out of the Club though has been all the friendship, encouragement, and enthusiasm from some truly inspiring individuals over the past ten years.
But the best thing was actually being able to “give something back” running “TiGers” for a few years before COVID. brought an end to it. This “Transition Group” Programme, originally introduced and run for its first year by Simon Knox, before Jackie and I took it over for a few years (with help from Linda Craddock, and Douglas Stirling and Gail Stirling), took groups of about a dozen new (or newly-returned) runners from 5km to 10km over a 12-week or so period, building both their stamina and confidence. This “peer support group” encouraged so many people, and was, I think, one of the best things the club ever did, and in part led to the much greater inclusivity we see today.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
“Sociable” ones for me now…5km to 10km…at a more relaxed, non-competitive pace, particularly on trails, and if I can bring my dogs (Haggis and Spud) to help pull me along, even better! I used to enjoy half marathons, but only did one marathon (Paris) as part of my bucket list when I hit 60…which I decided was enough!
What's been your favourite running event?
This has been mentioned by others in the past…The Tour of Fife series of different events over a week. The camaraderie was just amazing, and enabled some great competition between Jackie and I…she, of course, always beats me hollow on good surfaces, but I could win back points by beating her on more “technical surfaces”. It was all down to the final day, when we were neck and neck on points, and (as Simon Knox, then Club Secretary, reported in his daily roundup) “a year’s worth of washing up duties is at stake in the Heilbronn household”. Sadly I managed to pull my back and had to drop out of the challenge. My one and only chance ever to possibly beat her!
I also absolutely loved some “mixed” events I did with DRR friends - Lu Lita, John McIntosh and Rachel Toth, doing a combination of 10km runs with obstacles! Total Warrior; Beast at Banchory etc. A wonderful way to embrace your inner child; and an awful lot of mud!!!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Despite saying I prefer shorter distances, I was good on keeping going, and loved doing the 54 mile Cateran Yomp during a seven year period from 2012, normally being the Fastest Mixed Team with Jackie, but my finest moment being the overall Fastest Team, accompanied by a very patient Elaine Omand (her having a “relaxing run” after doing a marathon the week before to take “the edge” off her, so I could, kind-of, keep up) in 2017, when Jackie had torn her rotator cuff and was off running.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Errrm…actually signing up to a race!
Shortly after joining the Club in late August 2015, and getting a few PBs at Camperdown parkrun, we heard about “The Templeton Ten” that was taking place in a few weeks at the beginning of November. How hard could it be, we thought, to double up from a 5km to a 10km? So we signed up. It was a few weeks later, with the race fairly imminent, that we discovered that it wasn’t ten KILOMETRES…it was ten MILES!!! There were a few gulps about what we had let ourselves in for, and a “steep learning curve” for the training (and an even steeper hill in the run up to Auchterhouse and beyond!), but we survived, and loved doing both it, and enjoying the legendary DRR refreshments that followed.
Any top tips for new runners?
Thinking back on our first, failed attempt to get to parkrun, and something we used to tell the TiGers: “You’re going to have a shower when you get home, so just consider any rain your ‘prewash’ and enjoy it!”
“The hardest distance is the six inches between your ears! You NEVER EVER regret doing a run.”
Jackie Heilbronn
Member since: 2015
Hi Jackie! So, when did you start running and why?
I used to run at school and for the school team doing 400m, 800m, and cross country in the winter months. The school playing fields and cross country route was very near to Girdleness lighthouse in Aberdeen, so it was very bleak, wet and windy. I don’t how we survived back in the 1970s without trail shoes and proper running kit; it was shorts all year and a T-shirt, and if it was cold we were allowed to wear our school jumper to keep warm! I used to do extra running practice in the Duthie park trying to improve my speed and stamina; maybe I was slightly competitive even back then! When I left school I gave up running and did more swimming and yoga as exercise. I tried to persuade Tim over the years to come running with me but he always said he had flat feet and dodgy knees so he couldn’t run. We then got involved with The Cateran Yomp; we got faster at walking then decided to take up jogging to improve our Yomp times, and the running started in earnest.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
As Tim said in his interview, having sat with some DRR people for post-parkrun coffee they persuaded us to give DRR a go. I didn’t go to the Auchterhouse hill race; I let Tim test the waters and report back. We then joined and immersed ourselves into Tuesday and Thursday training sessions, the Autumn handicap, Galaxy runs and MNTB (Monday Night Trail Blazers); it was good fun. We should come along more often!
What do you get out of the club?
The social aspect, the community spirit and encouragement from others. I worked alongside Chris Earl; initially encouraging him to come to parkrun and join DRR. Chris then encouraged me to set my sights higher and challenge myself. This is when I started working harder with my training, pushing myself to go faster and to dig deeper to achieve Platinum and Diamond Standards.
Since taking early retirement, I have been training more during the day on my own and less on club evenings but I still enjoy going along to races as part of DRR, also helping out as a tail runner, especially at MNTB.
What types of runs do you do?
I used to really like trail running until I fell at the Illuminator night time trail race in 2016, tearing my rotator cuff in my right shoulder, which required surgery and nine months out from running. I am now more cautious on trails and have taken up more road running. Although I do still mix and match my running, as Tim prefers trails.
What's been your favourite running event?
As many people have said, The Tour of Fife. It was so much fun having Inter & Intra club battles for point-scoring over the five events. Could you get one point ahead of your nearest rival, or even your husband?! It was also a fantastic social event too.
I am currently enjoying doing various Island half marathons as something different from the local races; any excuse to have a weekend away in the campervan, visiting places we have not been to before. Isle of Harris half has been the best so far with its stunning scenery.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
After five years of trying to get a ballot place for Berlin Marathon with John McIntosh, we finally got a place to run it in September 2022. This was intended to be my ONE and ONLY marathon; that was until I got a Good For Age (GFA) FV60 time! Lynne Gibson had said if you ever get a GFA you must use it, so I did, which has lead me to running London, Chicago & Boston Marathons and achieving a GFA time at each one.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
As Tim mentioned, our mistake was thinking Templeton 10 was a 10K race, not 10 miles; we have never done that again…that was a definite rookie mistake. These days, I definitely look at distance, elevation and previous results, especially FV60 times to see what to expect from races that I am thinking of entering.
Any top tips for new runners?
Become consistent with your training, do the rep sessions and find a running buddy. When you have a running buddy, you make commitments and you stick to them because you don’t want to let your running buddy down, this definitely helps you get out the door for a run.
Hi Jackie! So, when did you start running and why?
I used to run at school and for the school team doing 400m, 800m, and cross country in the winter months. The school playing fields and cross country route was very near to Girdleness lighthouse in Aberdeen, so it was very bleak, wet and windy. I don’t how we survived back in the 1970s without trail shoes and proper running kit; it was shorts all year and a T-shirt, and if it was cold we were allowed to wear our school jumper to keep warm! I used to do extra running practice in the Duthie park trying to improve my speed and stamina; maybe I was slightly competitive even back then! When I left school I gave up running and did more swimming and yoga as exercise. I tried to persuade Tim over the years to come running with me but he always said he had flat feet and dodgy knees so he couldn’t run. We then got involved with The Cateran Yomp; we got faster at walking then decided to take up jogging to improve our Yomp times, and the running started in earnest.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
As Tim said in his interview, having sat with some DRR people for post-parkrun coffee they persuaded us to give DRR a go. I didn’t go to the Auchterhouse hill race; I let Tim test the waters and report back. We then joined and immersed ourselves into Tuesday and Thursday training sessions, the Autumn handicap, Galaxy runs and MNTB (Monday Night Trail Blazers); it was good fun. We should come along more often!
What do you get out of the club?
The social aspect, the community spirit and encouragement from others. I worked alongside Chris Earl; initially encouraging him to come to parkrun and join DRR. Chris then encouraged me to set my sights higher and challenge myself. This is when I started working harder with my training, pushing myself to go faster and to dig deeper to achieve Platinum and Diamond Standards.
Since taking early retirement, I have been training more during the day on my own and less on club evenings but I still enjoy going along to races as part of DRR, also helping out as a tail runner, especially at MNTB.
What types of runs do you do?
I used to really like trail running until I fell at the Illuminator night time trail race in 2016, tearing my rotator cuff in my right shoulder, which required surgery and nine months out from running. I am now more cautious on trails and have taken up more road running. Although I do still mix and match my running, as Tim prefers trails.
What's been your favourite running event?
As many people have said, The Tour of Fife. It was so much fun having Inter & Intra club battles for point-scoring over the five events. Could you get one point ahead of your nearest rival, or even your husband?! It was also a fantastic social event too.
I am currently enjoying doing various Island half marathons as something different from the local races; any excuse to have a weekend away in the campervan, visiting places we have not been to before. Isle of Harris half has been the best so far with its stunning scenery.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
After five years of trying to get a ballot place for Berlin Marathon with John McIntosh, we finally got a place to run it in September 2022. This was intended to be my ONE and ONLY marathon; that was until I got a Good For Age (GFA) FV60 time! Lynne Gibson had said if you ever get a GFA you must use it, so I did, which has lead me to running London, Chicago & Boston Marathons and achieving a GFA time at each one.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
As Tim mentioned, our mistake was thinking Templeton 10 was a 10K race, not 10 miles; we have never done that again…that was a definite rookie mistake. These days, I definitely look at distance, elevation and previous results, especially FV60 times to see what to expect from races that I am thinking of entering.
Any top tips for new runners?
Become consistent with your training, do the rep sessions and find a running buddy. When you have a running buddy, you make commitments and you stick to them because you don’t want to let your running buddy down, this definitely helps you get out the door for a run.
Arron Small
Member since: 2024
Hi Arron! When did you start running and why?
I’ve always been very active and played lots of sports such as football and golf, and trained a lot doing CrossFit and Olympic weightlifting. At work one day, two work friends were talking about doing the Edinburgh Half Marathon and convinced me to sign up too. I was playing a lot of indoor football at the time and thought I was fit enough to get around no problem. However, I quickly learned on the day that I wasn’t as fit as I thought. After that I decided to put in a bit of training and started going along to parkrun regularly.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After going along to a few parkruns and wanting to get better at running, I thought about joining the club for a while but had always been anxious about coming along. My work friend, Mike Heron (who had also done the Edinburgh half) told me he used to be a member of DRR, and assured me I would love it. So I took his word for it, signed up as a guest, realised I had nothing to be anxious about, and I’ve never looked back.
What do you get out of the club?
The biggest thing would certainly be the same as most people and it’s the camaraderie. I do enjoy running on my own sometimes, however I would much rather run with others so it’s great getting to run with friends on club runs, as talking certainly takes my mind off the tiredness.
Since joining the club I’ve ended up signing up for so many races, trying a little bit of everything. I don’t think I would’ve done this on my own and it’s really helped me push myself a bit further.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
My favourite runs would be the shorter stuff (it’s in my name), speed sessions, the reps on a Thursday, and races. However, as I mentioned before I love going out with everyone and having a blether so most weeks you will find me on Tuesday and Sunday runs talking nonsense.
What's been your favourite running event?
Parkrun will always hold a special place in my heart; it’s probably where I really got the bug for running with trying to improve my 5k time every week. I also managed to rope my wife Keirra Small, and my dad into running, by dragging them along to parkruns with me, and eventually into the club too. I love doing as much parkrun tourism as possible and getting to run with Keirra and my dad.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Manchester Marathon 2025. This was my second marathon, my first being Loch Ness Marathon in 2024, where I got an injury just over halfway through and had to hobble to the finish. After I finished Loch Ness, I was really disheartened and instantly wanted to have another go at the marathon.
I signed up for Manchester and right from the start I was nervous at the thought of something going wrong again. I put in a big training block and talked to anyone who would listen to me about marathon training and Manchester. I’m sure Keirra was demented at the mention of marathon training.
The race day itself was very warm and sunny, and this brought about more nerves, but I trusted my training and got round in one piece. The sense of relief and happiness was priceless.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Too many to mention. I’m sure Keirra would take great joy in telling you of all my misfortunate toilet stories, but I'll keep this clean.
My most recent fiasco occurred during the club's Twin Peaks race. (The aim of which is to run from the Union to Balgay Observatory and the top of the Law and back, with each runner free to choose their own route). Despite putting the route on my watch, I got lost at the top of Balgay Hill. Running through the woods down a steep slope on the edge of the hill, I arrived at what seemed to me like a 100ft drop (probably only about 6ft). David Webster was running past on the path below as I came tearing down, and must have witnessed some sort of Tarzan-style leap from the trees.
Any top tips for new runners?
If you’re a new runner, just try and get out there and enjoy it. Everyone is so supportive and wants you do well. Try as many different races, types of running and everything the club has to offer, and get as much fun out of it as possible.
Hi Arron! When did you start running and why?
I’ve always been very active and played lots of sports such as football and golf, and trained a lot doing CrossFit and Olympic weightlifting. At work one day, two work friends were talking about doing the Edinburgh Half Marathon and convinced me to sign up too. I was playing a lot of indoor football at the time and thought I was fit enough to get around no problem. However, I quickly learned on the day that I wasn’t as fit as I thought. After that I decided to put in a bit of training and started going along to parkrun regularly.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After going along to a few parkruns and wanting to get better at running, I thought about joining the club for a while but had always been anxious about coming along. My work friend, Mike Heron (who had also done the Edinburgh half) told me he used to be a member of DRR, and assured me I would love it. So I took his word for it, signed up as a guest, realised I had nothing to be anxious about, and I’ve never looked back.
What do you get out of the club?
The biggest thing would certainly be the same as most people and it’s the camaraderie. I do enjoy running on my own sometimes, however I would much rather run with others so it’s great getting to run with friends on club runs, as talking certainly takes my mind off the tiredness.
Since joining the club I’ve ended up signing up for so many races, trying a little bit of everything. I don’t think I would’ve done this on my own and it’s really helped me push myself a bit further.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
My favourite runs would be the shorter stuff (it’s in my name), speed sessions, the reps on a Thursday, and races. However, as I mentioned before I love going out with everyone and having a blether so most weeks you will find me on Tuesday and Sunday runs talking nonsense.
What's been your favourite running event?
Parkrun will always hold a special place in my heart; it’s probably where I really got the bug for running with trying to improve my 5k time every week. I also managed to rope my wife Keirra Small, and my dad into running, by dragging them along to parkruns with me, and eventually into the club too. I love doing as much parkrun tourism as possible and getting to run with Keirra and my dad.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Manchester Marathon 2025. This was my second marathon, my first being Loch Ness Marathon in 2024, where I got an injury just over halfway through and had to hobble to the finish. After I finished Loch Ness, I was really disheartened and instantly wanted to have another go at the marathon.
I signed up for Manchester and right from the start I was nervous at the thought of something going wrong again. I put in a big training block and talked to anyone who would listen to me about marathon training and Manchester. I’m sure Keirra was demented at the mention of marathon training.
The race day itself was very warm and sunny, and this brought about more nerves, but I trusted my training and got round in one piece. The sense of relief and happiness was priceless.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Too many to mention. I’m sure Keirra would take great joy in telling you of all my misfortunate toilet stories, but I'll keep this clean.
My most recent fiasco occurred during the club's Twin Peaks race. (The aim of which is to run from the Union to Balgay Observatory and the top of the Law and back, with each runner free to choose their own route). Despite putting the route on my watch, I got lost at the top of Balgay Hill. Running through the woods down a steep slope on the edge of the hill, I arrived at what seemed to me like a 100ft drop (probably only about 6ft). David Webster was running past on the path below as I came tearing down, and must have witnessed some sort of Tarzan-style leap from the trees.
Any top tips for new runners?
If you’re a new runner, just try and get out there and enjoy it. Everyone is so supportive and wants you do well. Try as many different races, types of running and everything the club has to offer, and get as much fun out of it as possible.
David Baird
Member since: 2022
When did you start running and why?
I tried running a few times but mainly went to the gym or cycled, however after our first child was born I wasn’t finding the time to do either and had also swapped the cycle commute for driving as it now included a nursery drop-off. After putting on way too much weight my decision to run was purely based on the calorie burn per hour and the fact it was a cheap (lol) and easily accessible way to get fit.
Soon after, I signed up for the 2021 Dundee Half Marathon and started running more regularly.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I enjoyed running with a local Run Talk Run group doing 5k on Monday nights, but as I was signing up for races and doing longer distances a few Roadrunners I had met were encouraging me to come along to the club nights.
What do you get out of the club?
There’s a really great group of friendly people in the club which makes getting the training in so much easier than doing it alone, especially when running up some hill on a cold, dark, Monday night in the middle of winter, getting hammered by horizontal rain.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
A bit of everything. For social runs I prefer going on a trail run but for racing I prefer road races between 10k - half marathon distance.
What's been your favourite running event?
Allan Kettles' Gagie Farm Ultra is one of my favourite events since joining the club. I love the change from normal races and more social aspect starting each lap together and just trying to manage more laps than I did the previous year.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Managing to get the results for a bronze standard last year. Especially the Tay Ten 10 mile race.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
On a frosty November morning in 2020 having only done 5k and the occasional 10k runs I thought 'how hard could a half marathon be?' After running it in 2h 15m, I arrived back home exhausted, only to realise I had no house key with me and no mobile phone. I ended up lying on a frosty sun lounger in the garden, dehydrated and cramping. for about an hour till my wife got home to let me in.
Any top tips for new runners?
Just get signing up for races as soon as possible. The atmosphere of a race is perfect for pushing yourself, regardless of your pace. Also, ignore how you feel on the day and just get to the start line. Some of my best results have been on days when I have felt ill or slightly injured, but just pushed through and focused on the getting to the finish line.
When did you start running and why?
I tried running a few times but mainly went to the gym or cycled, however after our first child was born I wasn’t finding the time to do either and had also swapped the cycle commute for driving as it now included a nursery drop-off. After putting on way too much weight my decision to run was purely based on the calorie burn per hour and the fact it was a cheap (lol) and easily accessible way to get fit.
Soon after, I signed up for the 2021 Dundee Half Marathon and started running more regularly.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I enjoyed running with a local Run Talk Run group doing 5k on Monday nights, but as I was signing up for races and doing longer distances a few Roadrunners I had met were encouraging me to come along to the club nights.
What do you get out of the club?
There’s a really great group of friendly people in the club which makes getting the training in so much easier than doing it alone, especially when running up some hill on a cold, dark, Monday night in the middle of winter, getting hammered by horizontal rain.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
A bit of everything. For social runs I prefer going on a trail run but for racing I prefer road races between 10k - half marathon distance.
What's been your favourite running event?
Allan Kettles' Gagie Farm Ultra is one of my favourite events since joining the club. I love the change from normal races and more social aspect starting each lap together and just trying to manage more laps than I did the previous year.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Managing to get the results for a bronze standard last year. Especially the Tay Ten 10 mile race.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
On a frosty November morning in 2020 having only done 5k and the occasional 10k runs I thought 'how hard could a half marathon be?' After running it in 2h 15m, I arrived back home exhausted, only to realise I had no house key with me and no mobile phone. I ended up lying on a frosty sun lounger in the garden, dehydrated and cramping. for about an hour till my wife got home to let me in.
Any top tips for new runners?
Just get signing up for races as soon as possible. The atmosphere of a race is perfect for pushing yourself, regardless of your pace. Also, ignore how you feel on the day and just get to the start line. Some of my best results have been on days when I have felt ill or slightly injured, but just pushed through and focused on the getting to the finish line.
Marcus Sheridan
Member since: 2018
Hi Marcus! When did you start running and why?
I started when I first moved over from Ayr to Arbroath after my teaching post-grad in 2016. I just ran a few 5ks and 10ks by myself. I used to play Gaelic football and handball in Ireland and it was strange not having a sport to play anymore so I just did what I could to keep somewhat fit.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I signed up for a marathon and had never run anything more than a half before. I felt a bit clueless in how to progress so hoped I could learn something from more experienced runners. I remember showing up to my first Sunday run; a 16 miler. There was only 3 members there; Roy McKandie, Graham Christie and Scott James. They were so encouraging and really gave me confidence in completing the marathon.
My lasting memory of that run though was thinking that I had done so well to keep up with the lads before finding out that Scott had already run 5 miles beforehand as he was training for an ultra which I found completely ludicrous at the time!!
What do you get out of the club?
I would say it’s mostly camaraderie but that’s not strictly true. I’ve always been fairly competitive and have always been involved in sport since I started playing Gaelic football aged seven. I love being pushed to get better and that’s probably what I’ve loved the most about the club. There’s always been someone a little bit better than me. I love trying to close the gap and make progress. Just look at what having the likes of David, Nick, Robbie etc has done to raise the standards of the club in recent years. When I first joined I always thought it was pipe dream to go under 3 in the marathon and if I did eventually break that time that would be me completing my running career! However, seeing how others in the club have smashed this barrier has motivated me to constantly update my goals.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
All of them. I’ve been injured so much in recent years that I now constantly try to appreciate every run that I can complete pain-free! Sometimes when I find myself getting completely caught up in hitting times and paces, I like to go back to the hills and trails and forget about all of that stuff.
In the past year I’ve really started to enjoy my 6am runs with club stalwarts Alison and George. It can be such a great way to start the day and chat rubbish (my 2nd favourite hobby.) Making morning plans with mates means that I’ve no choice but to crawl out of bed in the morning and shuffle with my eyes half-shut towards the Balgay gates. This all started in the dark, wet, miserable mornings with the head torches lighting the way. As Robbie Dunlop would often say: “Winter miles, summer smiles.”
What's been your favourite running event?
There’s a few that come to mind here. I’ve recently run the Silverknowes Scottish National 5k champs. It was such a buzz running in a stacked field. It felt like being part of a stampede from start to finish which I oddly loved.
One of the most stunning races I’ve taken part in is the Lairig Ghru which is just over 26 miles. I’ve raced this 3 times now. I got horrible heat stroke the second time which I blame on trying to keep up with the Rodney brothers!! After that horror show, I had to sign up again just to redeem myself!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
It was probably my 5th marathon where I managed to not get sick crossing the finish line for the first time. My spewing put me in the medical tent after #4. I really do love running, I swear!!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
When I turned 22 I was living in Galway with one of my best mates. I woke on the morning of my birthday after having a few drinks the night before and decided it was time that I ran a half-marathon. How hard could it be? I’d ran 10km before and was sure it couldn’t be much tougher. So we decided we would do an out and back run to Bearna, a wee village along the coast. When we reached the half way point, both my legs began to cramp. I tried to continue but eventually had to flag down a taxi to bring me home. Mortifying!
Any top tips for new runners?
Ask for advice.... but ignore most of it.
I honestly think that most of running is about trying things out, seeing what works for you and trying not to get caught up with what everyone else is doing.
Hi Marcus! When did you start running and why?
I started when I first moved over from Ayr to Arbroath after my teaching post-grad in 2016. I just ran a few 5ks and 10ks by myself. I used to play Gaelic football and handball in Ireland and it was strange not having a sport to play anymore so I just did what I could to keep somewhat fit.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I signed up for a marathon and had never run anything more than a half before. I felt a bit clueless in how to progress so hoped I could learn something from more experienced runners. I remember showing up to my first Sunday run; a 16 miler. There was only 3 members there; Roy McKandie, Graham Christie and Scott James. They were so encouraging and really gave me confidence in completing the marathon.
My lasting memory of that run though was thinking that I had done so well to keep up with the lads before finding out that Scott had already run 5 miles beforehand as he was training for an ultra which I found completely ludicrous at the time!!
What do you get out of the club?
I would say it’s mostly camaraderie but that’s not strictly true. I’ve always been fairly competitive and have always been involved in sport since I started playing Gaelic football aged seven. I love being pushed to get better and that’s probably what I’ve loved the most about the club. There’s always been someone a little bit better than me. I love trying to close the gap and make progress. Just look at what having the likes of David, Nick, Robbie etc has done to raise the standards of the club in recent years. When I first joined I always thought it was pipe dream to go under 3 in the marathon and if I did eventually break that time that would be me completing my running career! However, seeing how others in the club have smashed this barrier has motivated me to constantly update my goals.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
All of them. I’ve been injured so much in recent years that I now constantly try to appreciate every run that I can complete pain-free! Sometimes when I find myself getting completely caught up in hitting times and paces, I like to go back to the hills and trails and forget about all of that stuff.
In the past year I’ve really started to enjoy my 6am runs with club stalwarts Alison and George. It can be such a great way to start the day and chat rubbish (my 2nd favourite hobby.) Making morning plans with mates means that I’ve no choice but to crawl out of bed in the morning and shuffle with my eyes half-shut towards the Balgay gates. This all started in the dark, wet, miserable mornings with the head torches lighting the way. As Robbie Dunlop would often say: “Winter miles, summer smiles.”
What's been your favourite running event?
There’s a few that come to mind here. I’ve recently run the Silverknowes Scottish National 5k champs. It was such a buzz running in a stacked field. It felt like being part of a stampede from start to finish which I oddly loved.
One of the most stunning races I’ve taken part in is the Lairig Ghru which is just over 26 miles. I’ve raced this 3 times now. I got horrible heat stroke the second time which I blame on trying to keep up with the Rodney brothers!! After that horror show, I had to sign up again just to redeem myself!
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
It was probably my 5th marathon where I managed to not get sick crossing the finish line for the first time. My spewing put me in the medical tent after #4. I really do love running, I swear!!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
When I turned 22 I was living in Galway with one of my best mates. I woke on the morning of my birthday after having a few drinks the night before and decided it was time that I ran a half-marathon. How hard could it be? I’d ran 10km before and was sure it couldn’t be much tougher. So we decided we would do an out and back run to Bearna, a wee village along the coast. When we reached the half way point, both my legs began to cramp. I tried to continue but eventually had to flag down a taxi to bring me home. Mortifying!
Any top tips for new runners?
Ask for advice.... but ignore most of it.
I honestly think that most of running is about trying things out, seeing what works for you and trying not to get caught up with what everyone else is doing.
Jacqueline McCulloch
Member since: 2002
HI Jacqui! When did you start running and why?
I started running in early 2002 as my friend persuaded me to enter a mountain marathon with her. We were both hill walkers and she was also a runner, but running never really interested me. We were hill fit but I felt I needed to increase my fitness in preparation for this event so she took me out running, or should I say I plodded along behind her. For the event we had to navigate around Loch Katrine and The Trossachs over two days; reach check points in a specific order; carry all our food and gear, and camp overnight. It's still physically the hardest thing I've done. We were delighted to come 3rd overall and 1st ladies team in our category.
I've always loved the outdoors and nature but I wasn't really into fitness until I started working. I played hockey for the school team but I chose Latin as a subject to get out of P.E. classes!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I discovered that running helped my hillwalking and I was able to walk and talk at the same time. The more I ran the more I enjoyed it so I decided to go along to DRR one night and give it a go. I was really nervous but I was made to feel very welcome and I've never looked back. My first race was Templeton 10 in the November and I honestly didn't know what I was letting myself in for. I wore too many layers but I got round and the feeling when I crossed the finish line was overwhelming. I've kept the big, baggy long-sleeved cotton T-shirt from that race as a souvenir.
What do you get out of the club?
Camaraderie, encouragement, support, but most of all friendship. I struggled in the early days on Thursday training sessions but Charlie Anderson, one of the coaches for a number of years, took me under his wing and encouraged me to keep coming along. I'm very lucky to have several close friends I've made through DRR;
they've supported me through some difficult times. It's a privilege to work with Ged as part of the coaching team and give a little back to the club that has given so much to me.
What times of runs do you enjoy?
I like a mixture of road and trail, and a distance of around ten miles. I love parkrun, I find it sets you up for the weekend and I've made so many friends there. I don't often
run on my own but I always appreciate a solo run as I find it gives me time to daydream and space to clear my head.
What's been your favourite running event?
That's an easy one, my one and only marathon in 2016. A group of roadrunners entered Paris marathon that year; we trained together through the winter months and travelled to Paris along with family members who supported and cheered us around
the route. Their support on the day was fantastic and the whole event was so well organised. Some of us stayed on for a few days afterwards to see the sights and enjoy the food and wine.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Running the Dundee Half Marathon in 2009 and to my total surprise achieved 3rd Female Veteran. That was a shock when my name was called out and I've got a lovely wee trophy to show for it. I also won the club's Autumn Handicap that year in their 25th Anniversary year. That was special too.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I went to Blood Donors one morning then ran in the early evening with friends. It was a very warm day and when we got to the end of the run I felt totally spaced out, Lorraine Dunbar was talking to me and I heard every word but I couldn't reply. Gill Hanlon was quickly summoned and I was laid out on the grass with my legs elevated for a few minutes. I recovered quickly once I had a some water, food and rest.
Any top tips for new runners?
1. Increase your mileage gradually; don't do too much too soon.
2. Just do it, often the hardest part of a run is putting your running shoes on and getting out the door.
3. When you're finding it tough on a run or in a race, just remember every step forward is a step nearer the finish.
HI Jacqui! When did you start running and why?
I started running in early 2002 as my friend persuaded me to enter a mountain marathon with her. We were both hill walkers and she was also a runner, but running never really interested me. We were hill fit but I felt I needed to increase my fitness in preparation for this event so she took me out running, or should I say I plodded along behind her. For the event we had to navigate around Loch Katrine and The Trossachs over two days; reach check points in a specific order; carry all our food and gear, and camp overnight. It's still physically the hardest thing I've done. We were delighted to come 3rd overall and 1st ladies team in our category.
I've always loved the outdoors and nature but I wasn't really into fitness until I started working. I played hockey for the school team but I chose Latin as a subject to get out of P.E. classes!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I discovered that running helped my hillwalking and I was able to walk and talk at the same time. The more I ran the more I enjoyed it so I decided to go along to DRR one night and give it a go. I was really nervous but I was made to feel very welcome and I've never looked back. My first race was Templeton 10 in the November and I honestly didn't know what I was letting myself in for. I wore too many layers but I got round and the feeling when I crossed the finish line was overwhelming. I've kept the big, baggy long-sleeved cotton T-shirt from that race as a souvenir.
What do you get out of the club?
Camaraderie, encouragement, support, but most of all friendship. I struggled in the early days on Thursday training sessions but Charlie Anderson, one of the coaches for a number of years, took me under his wing and encouraged me to keep coming along. I'm very lucky to have several close friends I've made through DRR;
they've supported me through some difficult times. It's a privilege to work with Ged as part of the coaching team and give a little back to the club that has given so much to me.
What times of runs do you enjoy?
I like a mixture of road and trail, and a distance of around ten miles. I love parkrun, I find it sets you up for the weekend and I've made so many friends there. I don't often
run on my own but I always appreciate a solo run as I find it gives me time to daydream and space to clear my head.
What's been your favourite running event?
That's an easy one, my one and only marathon in 2016. A group of roadrunners entered Paris marathon that year; we trained together through the winter months and travelled to Paris along with family members who supported and cheered us around
the route. Their support on the day was fantastic and the whole event was so well organised. Some of us stayed on for a few days afterwards to see the sights and enjoy the food and wine.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Running the Dundee Half Marathon in 2009 and to my total surprise achieved 3rd Female Veteran. That was a shock when my name was called out and I've got a lovely wee trophy to show for it. I also won the club's Autumn Handicap that year in their 25th Anniversary year. That was special too.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I went to Blood Donors one morning then ran in the early evening with friends. It was a very warm day and when we got to the end of the run I felt totally spaced out, Lorraine Dunbar was talking to me and I heard every word but I couldn't reply. Gill Hanlon was quickly summoned and I was laid out on the grass with my legs elevated for a few minutes. I recovered quickly once I had a some water, food and rest.
Any top tips for new runners?
1. Increase your mileage gradually; don't do too much too soon.
2. Just do it, often the hardest part of a run is putting your running shoes on and getting out the door.
3. When you're finding it tough on a run or in a race, just remember every step forward is a step nearer the finish.
John Bryceland
Member since: 2024
Hi John! When did you start running and why?
April 2020, just a few weeks into the pandemic, the BBC News reported that the London marathon was being cancelled and many charities were expected to lose out so were encouraging viewers to participate in a ‘local’ 2.6 mile challenge and fundraise. I’d always loathed school sports day and had never ran but thought I’d give it a go so I decided to run over the bridge from Dundee to Fife and back everyday for a week and ended up raising around £350 for National Deaf Children Society. I remember it being very tough and feeling relived when it was finally over, but something ‘clicked’ and although I didn’t run again for many months, I sporadically returned to running whenever I felt I needed some mental space. It was a very unexpected and surprising discovery as I’d always thought the benefits would be physical, not psychological…yes, I felt tired and sore, but strangely it made me feel very happy too!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I was cajoled and coerced into it! I discovered a thing called parkrun a couple of weeks before Christmas 2023. I turned up ready to beat a hasty retreat, expecting a field full of athletes, however I was warmly welcomed by strangers, one of whom turned out to be Ian Clark. The next week he spotted me again and offered to pace me so I could make my first sub 30 minute, I was almost dying by the time I finished but it was the best early Christmas present getting me around in 29:38! As I attended over the coming weeks Ian introduced me to Brian Dunbar, Michael Mitchell and Ron ‘Hill’ Fraser who all played in their parts in persuading me along to the Spring Handicap, under the guise of ‘it’s the same as parkrun, but in reverse’ all conspirators conveniently forgetting to tell me that it’s also a little longer too. When I finished and eventually recovered that was me hooked, everyone seemed so genuinely friendly, welcoming, and interested in how I’d got on, I went home that evening with sore legs, got my bank card out and signed up on the clubs website.
What do you get out of the club?
Meeting like minded people, genuinely friendly and supportive individuals that I would never have had the good fortune to cross paths with otherwise. First time I went to parkrun I knew nobody, now there’s often at least one club member no matter which nearby parkrun I end up going to. I also really loved going up to the Inverness Half Marathon earlier this year, on the ‘club bus’, feeling like part of a team. The camaraderie and sense of belonging is not something I’d anticipated and is really nice when it’s so abundant and freely given by so many club members. I’m not able to get along to club training sessions as often I’d like, work and life generally gets in the way however I’m hoping to make time and pop along more regularly soon, especially when I’m seeing all those updates on Strava.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
That’s kinda tough, I always thought road running as that’s how I started, but since parkrun I find I do quite enjoy the trails too, so much so that I’ve signed up to a trail running weekend festival in Wales in July…which is like absolutely nuts for me! I seem to be planning actual holidays around running events now, which feels more than a little insane to me, yet here I am, doing it! Next holiday to be planned is Spain in late October, coincidentally the same time as I lucked out and got a place in the Valencia Half Marathon.
What's been your favourite running event?
Until a couple of weeks ago, it would be the Edinburgh Mens 10k in October 2023, my very first ever organised running event where I ran for National Deaf Children again. It was so surreal, people were cheering for me, shouting my name, taking selfies with me, it took a good while for me to realise they knew my name because it was printed on my bib and that not everyone was going to run wearing a kilt. It was doubly special as my mum and daughter were waiting to cheer me at Princes Street Gardens. That was my very first ever medal I received for anything my whole life, so it was handed straight to my mum after I finished where it’s still on her key ring now. I suppose even after recent events down South that event is always going to be very special to me.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Without a shadow of doubt it has to be taking part in the London Marathon a few weeks ago. The original email inviting me to take part in November while I was in Angola I thought was a scam, I followed up on the reminder email to ‘check’ and subsequently discovered it was genuine, the words I shouted and screamed can’t be typed here! . The training during those dark, cold winter months, when I definitely couldn’t be @r$ed, the build up, the pressure of fundraising, people at work talking about me and describing me a ‘runner’ (surely they’re just winding me up and having a laugh?) then the realisation that I probably should have trained more as four months turned all too quickly into four weeks, then only four days, then…I’m getting off the tube at Greenwich and walking with thousands of others towards the start of an event I could never have imagined would be for me, something in my life, that sort of stuff only happens to other people…doesn’t it? How my life has changed in such a relatively short time, crazy, brilliant and loving it, but still crazy!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Ermmm, turned up? Apart from that, probably stopping to kiss and hug my mum whenever she’s been at the side of a route to support me and getting cheers from other runners, time with my mum is more important than my ‘time’.
Any top tips for new runners?
Don’t start off too fast! It’s better to run what you can and walk what you can’t and take part, than be like everyone else who is sat at home or in the pub doing nothing. A mile is still a mile no matter how long it takes. But most of all, running is a privilege, many would love to do what we do, so get out there and run like nobody is watching and enjoy yourself!
Hi John! When did you start running and why?
April 2020, just a few weeks into the pandemic, the BBC News reported that the London marathon was being cancelled and many charities were expected to lose out so were encouraging viewers to participate in a ‘local’ 2.6 mile challenge and fundraise. I’d always loathed school sports day and had never ran but thought I’d give it a go so I decided to run over the bridge from Dundee to Fife and back everyday for a week and ended up raising around £350 for National Deaf Children Society. I remember it being very tough and feeling relived when it was finally over, but something ‘clicked’ and although I didn’t run again for many months, I sporadically returned to running whenever I felt I needed some mental space. It was a very unexpected and surprising discovery as I’d always thought the benefits would be physical, not psychological…yes, I felt tired and sore, but strangely it made me feel very happy too!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I was cajoled and coerced into it! I discovered a thing called parkrun a couple of weeks before Christmas 2023. I turned up ready to beat a hasty retreat, expecting a field full of athletes, however I was warmly welcomed by strangers, one of whom turned out to be Ian Clark. The next week he spotted me again and offered to pace me so I could make my first sub 30 minute, I was almost dying by the time I finished but it was the best early Christmas present getting me around in 29:38! As I attended over the coming weeks Ian introduced me to Brian Dunbar, Michael Mitchell and Ron ‘Hill’ Fraser who all played in their parts in persuading me along to the Spring Handicap, under the guise of ‘it’s the same as parkrun, but in reverse’ all conspirators conveniently forgetting to tell me that it’s also a little longer too. When I finished and eventually recovered that was me hooked, everyone seemed so genuinely friendly, welcoming, and interested in how I’d got on, I went home that evening with sore legs, got my bank card out and signed up on the clubs website.
What do you get out of the club?
Meeting like minded people, genuinely friendly and supportive individuals that I would never have had the good fortune to cross paths with otherwise. First time I went to parkrun I knew nobody, now there’s often at least one club member no matter which nearby parkrun I end up going to. I also really loved going up to the Inverness Half Marathon earlier this year, on the ‘club bus’, feeling like part of a team. The camaraderie and sense of belonging is not something I’d anticipated and is really nice when it’s so abundant and freely given by so many club members. I’m not able to get along to club training sessions as often I’d like, work and life generally gets in the way however I’m hoping to make time and pop along more regularly soon, especially when I’m seeing all those updates on Strava.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
That’s kinda tough, I always thought road running as that’s how I started, but since parkrun I find I do quite enjoy the trails too, so much so that I’ve signed up to a trail running weekend festival in Wales in July…which is like absolutely nuts for me! I seem to be planning actual holidays around running events now, which feels more than a little insane to me, yet here I am, doing it! Next holiday to be planned is Spain in late October, coincidentally the same time as I lucked out and got a place in the Valencia Half Marathon.
What's been your favourite running event?
Until a couple of weeks ago, it would be the Edinburgh Mens 10k in October 2023, my very first ever organised running event where I ran for National Deaf Children again. It was so surreal, people were cheering for me, shouting my name, taking selfies with me, it took a good while for me to realise they knew my name because it was printed on my bib and that not everyone was going to run wearing a kilt. It was doubly special as my mum and daughter were waiting to cheer me at Princes Street Gardens. That was my very first ever medal I received for anything my whole life, so it was handed straight to my mum after I finished where it’s still on her key ring now. I suppose even after recent events down South that event is always going to be very special to me.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Without a shadow of doubt it has to be taking part in the London Marathon a few weeks ago. The original email inviting me to take part in November while I was in Angola I thought was a scam, I followed up on the reminder email to ‘check’ and subsequently discovered it was genuine, the words I shouted and screamed can’t be typed here! . The training during those dark, cold winter months, when I definitely couldn’t be @r$ed, the build up, the pressure of fundraising, people at work talking about me and describing me a ‘runner’ (surely they’re just winding me up and having a laugh?) then the realisation that I probably should have trained more as four months turned all too quickly into four weeks, then only four days, then…I’m getting off the tube at Greenwich and walking with thousands of others towards the start of an event I could never have imagined would be for me, something in my life, that sort of stuff only happens to other people…doesn’t it? How my life has changed in such a relatively short time, crazy, brilliant and loving it, but still crazy!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Ermmm, turned up? Apart from that, probably stopping to kiss and hug my mum whenever she’s been at the side of a route to support me and getting cheers from other runners, time with my mum is more important than my ‘time’.
Any top tips for new runners?
Don’t start off too fast! It’s better to run what you can and walk what you can’t and take part, than be like everyone else who is sat at home or in the pub doing nothing. A mile is still a mile no matter how long it takes. But most of all, running is a privilege, many would love to do what we do, so get out there and run like nobody is watching and enjoy yourself!
Gillian Gibson
Member since: 2018
Hi Gillian! When did you start running and why?
I’d tried running a couple of times as an adult and never really stuck with it. By the time my second child came along, I was desperate to find a way to exercise that was inexpensive (how delusional was I?!) and I could fit in around a busy job and two children.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I managed to complete C25K in 2017, and did the 10km at the Great Scottish Run, whilst my partner Ben Gibson did the Half. A few months later, I saw an advert shared on Facebook for the TiGers - a 5 to 10k “transition group” that the club was running from January 2018. I signed up for that thinking it would be a great way to get a bit quicker, whilst running in a group, which I felt I’d benefit from.
What do you get out of the club?
When I first joined, I really valued the accountability of turning up to club sessions. More than that, though, the people really make the club; I’ve met lots of lovely people through DRR. Post pandemic, life kind of got in the way a bit and I found working from home made it quite easy to not come to training. I’d use kids activities as a bit of an excuse to not run; Ben was marathon training blah blah blah (I’ve a whole list of excuses that are pretty flimsy). I was still very much involved in the committee which has been a good way to stay part of the club whilst being less active! Through this, I found my way to officiating, and whilst I’ve kind of fallen out of love with racing, I really enjoy the delivery of races. I get loads of enjoyment out of helping out at the cross country events over the winter months, and late last year I got involved in the new DRR race committee.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
5-10km on the road is my thing. I’ve done a few half marathons and I’ll never say never to a marathon, but if I’m really honest with myself, 10km is probably my favourite distance. Now that I’m back running, I’m really enjoying four/five mile runs listening to a good podcast (I probably look a bit unhinged as I run along, cackling away!)
What's been your favourite running event?
Like others have said, the Tour of Fife was an amazing event. I was lucky enough to do it in 2019 and had such a great time; the DRR race camaraderie was on another level!
Knowing what I know now in terms of organising a race, I can really appreciate how much effort must have gone into staging an event with five races over five days in five different locations across Fife.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I don’t think anything beats the high that I felt when I finally broke the 30 minute barrier at Camperdown parkrun. I’d been pretty close a few times, but during the TiGers programme, Tim Heilbronn very kindly offered to pace me round and I didn’t get just under 30 - I got 28:41, and by the end of TiGers was sub 27. I was more chuffed with that, than the first time I went sub-2 in a half (so thanks again Tim!!)
Later that year, Ben, Lewis (our then 9 year old) and I did the Beveridge Park 5k in Kirkcaldy. I’d managed to get my PB down to just over 25 minutes and was looking to get sub-25 by the August race. As I ran up the final hill, all I could think of was Jackie Heilbronn's advice of a balloon pulling my head up from one of the TiGers sessions running up some of the horrible hills off Arbroath Road and to drive up that hill. I ended up with a new 5k PB of 23.54. Nearly seven years later I’m still to beat that time so thanks must also go to Jackie for all her technique tips and encouragement.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
There was one Tuesday run, maybe 2022 when it was really warm and not that many of us turned up. I decided to head off on my own shorter run. I duly set off through the uni campus out onto Perth Road. I ended up taking a spectacular tumble outside DCA. I started the 'trip' on the cobbled driveway to what was the old Clydesdale Bank and actually landed somewhere in the vicinity of the signage on the pavement outside DCA.
To add insult to injury, because my knee was a bit bashed up, the next day I decided to go for a bike ride instead, and went and fell off that too…..
Any top tips for new runners?
Don’t be put off thinking that clubs are elitist or just for fast runners. As a novice runner, I found nothing other than support and encouragement from DRR members. And if you’ve had a break and are coming back, it can feel daunting getting back to previous fitness levels. The pride took a bit of a dent on some of my early runs back this year but again, coming along to training and getting that encouragement from fellow members, old and new, has been great.
Hi Gillian! When did you start running and why?
I’d tried running a couple of times as an adult and never really stuck with it. By the time my second child came along, I was desperate to find a way to exercise that was inexpensive (how delusional was I?!) and I could fit in around a busy job and two children.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I managed to complete C25K in 2017, and did the 10km at the Great Scottish Run, whilst my partner Ben Gibson did the Half. A few months later, I saw an advert shared on Facebook for the TiGers - a 5 to 10k “transition group” that the club was running from January 2018. I signed up for that thinking it would be a great way to get a bit quicker, whilst running in a group, which I felt I’d benefit from.
What do you get out of the club?
When I first joined, I really valued the accountability of turning up to club sessions. More than that, though, the people really make the club; I’ve met lots of lovely people through DRR. Post pandemic, life kind of got in the way a bit and I found working from home made it quite easy to not come to training. I’d use kids activities as a bit of an excuse to not run; Ben was marathon training blah blah blah (I’ve a whole list of excuses that are pretty flimsy). I was still very much involved in the committee which has been a good way to stay part of the club whilst being less active! Through this, I found my way to officiating, and whilst I’ve kind of fallen out of love with racing, I really enjoy the delivery of races. I get loads of enjoyment out of helping out at the cross country events over the winter months, and late last year I got involved in the new DRR race committee.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
5-10km on the road is my thing. I’ve done a few half marathons and I’ll never say never to a marathon, but if I’m really honest with myself, 10km is probably my favourite distance. Now that I’m back running, I’m really enjoying four/five mile runs listening to a good podcast (I probably look a bit unhinged as I run along, cackling away!)
What's been your favourite running event?
Like others have said, the Tour of Fife was an amazing event. I was lucky enough to do it in 2019 and had such a great time; the DRR race camaraderie was on another level!
Knowing what I know now in terms of organising a race, I can really appreciate how much effort must have gone into staging an event with five races over five days in five different locations across Fife.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I don’t think anything beats the high that I felt when I finally broke the 30 minute barrier at Camperdown parkrun. I’d been pretty close a few times, but during the TiGers programme, Tim Heilbronn very kindly offered to pace me round and I didn’t get just under 30 - I got 28:41, and by the end of TiGers was sub 27. I was more chuffed with that, than the first time I went sub-2 in a half (so thanks again Tim!!)
Later that year, Ben, Lewis (our then 9 year old) and I did the Beveridge Park 5k in Kirkcaldy. I’d managed to get my PB down to just over 25 minutes and was looking to get sub-25 by the August race. As I ran up the final hill, all I could think of was Jackie Heilbronn's advice of a balloon pulling my head up from one of the TiGers sessions running up some of the horrible hills off Arbroath Road and to drive up that hill. I ended up with a new 5k PB of 23.54. Nearly seven years later I’m still to beat that time so thanks must also go to Jackie for all her technique tips and encouragement.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
There was one Tuesday run, maybe 2022 when it was really warm and not that many of us turned up. I decided to head off on my own shorter run. I duly set off through the uni campus out onto Perth Road. I ended up taking a spectacular tumble outside DCA. I started the 'trip' on the cobbled driveway to what was the old Clydesdale Bank and actually landed somewhere in the vicinity of the signage on the pavement outside DCA.
To add insult to injury, because my knee was a bit bashed up, the next day I decided to go for a bike ride instead, and went and fell off that too…..
Any top tips for new runners?
Don’t be put off thinking that clubs are elitist or just for fast runners. As a novice runner, I found nothing other than support and encouragement from DRR members. And if you’ve had a break and are coming back, it can feel daunting getting back to previous fitness levels. The pride took a bit of a dent on some of my early runs back this year but again, coming along to training and getting that encouragement from fellow members, old and new, has been great.
Laura McMahon
Member since: 2023
Hi Laura! When did you start running and why?
I completed C25K in 2018/2019 to get a bit fitter and was a member of the club’s 5k - 10k transition group (the TiGers), but could never really get into a groove and packed it in shortly thereafter.
After a few years hiatus, I set myself a goal of running a half marathon in 2022 and have been running pretty consistently since then (touch wood!).
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After training solo for around 18 months, so many people said to me that I’d get a lot of benefit from running with other people, and I decided to take the plunge and come along to a Tuesday night run at Clatto.
What do you get out of the club?
Definitely the community; the benefit of others' experience, and inspiration. Running on my own, I’d often feel a little awkward at parkruns and races as I didn’t really know anyone, and it’s so nice to have a chat before, during, or after runs.
I don’t get to training as much as I’d like, but have made great friends through the club and feel very much part of things through going to races and other events, as well as all the Strava support.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
Roads runs, preferably flat…
I have tried hard to like hills and trails, but I just don’t think I have it in me. I will keep trying though.
What's been your favourite running event?
Probably the London Marathon; I entered the ballot on a whim, still being pretty new to running and thinking I had no chance. To train for that without really having the first clue what I was doing and finish with a sub-4 was huge for me. The atmosphere was amazing and it definitely spurred me on to do more.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Probably Chester Marathon last year - I’d found training a real challenge and it was tough on the day, but definitely a huge sense of achievement to PB - especially as there were hills!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I don’t know about daftest, but the most dramatic would be during my recent (abandoned) marathon training block. I wasn’t feeling great but decided to push on and get my 22 miles done. Fast forward twelve painful miles later and I’m crying on the bus home from Arbroath.
Any top tips for new runners?
I still feel like a bit of a newbie, but I’d say enjoy it, be kind and patient with yourself especially when you feel like things aren’t going to plan (easier said than done) and stretch and strength train. I try my best to do the first two, but the third is still a work in progress…
Also, keep your easy runs easy!
Hi Laura! When did you start running and why?
I completed C25K in 2018/2019 to get a bit fitter and was a member of the club’s 5k - 10k transition group (the TiGers), but could never really get into a groove and packed it in shortly thereafter.
After a few years hiatus, I set myself a goal of running a half marathon in 2022 and have been running pretty consistently since then (touch wood!).
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
After training solo for around 18 months, so many people said to me that I’d get a lot of benefit from running with other people, and I decided to take the plunge and come along to a Tuesday night run at Clatto.
What do you get out of the club?
Definitely the community; the benefit of others' experience, and inspiration. Running on my own, I’d often feel a little awkward at parkruns and races as I didn’t really know anyone, and it’s so nice to have a chat before, during, or after runs.
I don’t get to training as much as I’d like, but have made great friends through the club and feel very much part of things through going to races and other events, as well as all the Strava support.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
Roads runs, preferably flat…
I have tried hard to like hills and trails, but I just don’t think I have it in me. I will keep trying though.
What's been your favourite running event?
Probably the London Marathon; I entered the ballot on a whim, still being pretty new to running and thinking I had no chance. To train for that without really having the first clue what I was doing and finish with a sub-4 was huge for me. The atmosphere was amazing and it definitely spurred me on to do more.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Probably Chester Marathon last year - I’d found training a real challenge and it was tough on the day, but definitely a huge sense of achievement to PB - especially as there were hills!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I don’t know about daftest, but the most dramatic would be during my recent (abandoned) marathon training block. I wasn’t feeling great but decided to push on and get my 22 miles done. Fast forward twelve painful miles later and I’m crying on the bus home from Arbroath.
Any top tips for new runners?
I still feel like a bit of a newbie, but I’d say enjoy it, be kind and patient with yourself especially when you feel like things aren’t going to plan (easier said than done) and stretch and strength train. I try my best to do the first two, but the third is still a work in progress…
Also, keep your easy runs easy!
Gillian Sangster
Member since: 2013
Hi Gillian! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running after having my boys, in about 2011, when I was about 40. I hated cross country at school, but I played hockey and badminton, and cycled everywhere. After I had the boys I felt like I needed to lose a bit of pregnancy weight, feel a bit fitter and get out into the fresh air.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I was encouraged to join by other Camperdown parkrun run directors, the training times suited my working hours and I liked the idea of coached sessions.
What do you get out of the club?
To start with, I was at pretty much every session. I went to lots of races with club friends. Now I’m not at so many sessions but I still love the coached sessions on a Thursday. I turn up at random races and try to do as many cross country races with the club as I can.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I like everything!! I do like a little adventure every now and then, but I’m happy running anywhere; long, short, fast, slow, on-road, off-road – it's all good. And now I do a lot of running after a swim or bike ride!!
What's been your favourite running event?
So many!! I loved the Lhairig Ghru, the Loch Ness Marathon, the London Marathon, the Tour of Fife. I loved racing for Scotland in Ireland. But my all-time favourite, which unfortunately didn’t run this year, was the iconic ladies-only Smokies 10 mile race in Arbroath – a really special race. I hope it makes a come-back.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I did quite well when I was running fast, so had a few wins and a few Scottish championship medals. I’m quite proud of the silver at the Scottish marathon. Running for Scotland Masters was also pretty cool. And winning the Lhairig Ghru. I’m really happy with my PBs across the distances. But that's all in the past!! These days my biggest achievements are all about taking part and enjoying the running, the fresh air, and the people.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I don’t really do anything daft, I’m Mrs Sensible - I generally just enter daft events, but back in the day, when I was relatively fast, I raced the National Cross Country...with my DRR vest on back-to-front!! There are many photos of it, so I can never be allowed to forget.
Any top tips for new runners?
We are in a very privileged position to be able to get out there and put one foot in front of the other. So enjoy it!!
Hi Gillian! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running after having my boys, in about 2011, when I was about 40. I hated cross country at school, but I played hockey and badminton, and cycled everywhere. After I had the boys I felt like I needed to lose a bit of pregnancy weight, feel a bit fitter and get out into the fresh air.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I was encouraged to join by other Camperdown parkrun run directors, the training times suited my working hours and I liked the idea of coached sessions.
What do you get out of the club?
To start with, I was at pretty much every session. I went to lots of races with club friends. Now I’m not at so many sessions but I still love the coached sessions on a Thursday. I turn up at random races and try to do as many cross country races with the club as I can.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
I like everything!! I do like a little adventure every now and then, but I’m happy running anywhere; long, short, fast, slow, on-road, off-road – it's all good. And now I do a lot of running after a swim or bike ride!!
What's been your favourite running event?
So many!! I loved the Lhairig Ghru, the Loch Ness Marathon, the London Marathon, the Tour of Fife. I loved racing for Scotland in Ireland. But my all-time favourite, which unfortunately didn’t run this year, was the iconic ladies-only Smokies 10 mile race in Arbroath – a really special race. I hope it makes a come-back.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I did quite well when I was running fast, so had a few wins and a few Scottish championship medals. I’m quite proud of the silver at the Scottish marathon. Running for Scotland Masters was also pretty cool. And winning the Lhairig Ghru. I’m really happy with my PBs across the distances. But that's all in the past!! These days my biggest achievements are all about taking part and enjoying the running, the fresh air, and the people.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
I don’t really do anything daft, I’m Mrs Sensible - I generally just enter daft events, but back in the day, when I was relatively fast, I raced the National Cross Country...with my DRR vest on back-to-front!! There are many photos of it, so I can never be allowed to forget.
Any top tips for new runners?
We are in a very privileged position to be able to get out there and put one foot in front of the other. So enjoy it!!
Michael Mitchell
Member since: 2017
Hi Michael! So, when did you start running and why?
I played a lot of sports when I was at school: cricket, football, tennis, golf and even rugby! Most of these sports involved running to some extent, so I would also enter the school cross country championships. In 1984, aged 15 and inspired by the Los Angeles Olympics, I decided to enter a half marathon which was in Anstruther (the East Neuk 10k predecessor). Health and Safety was a bit different in those days, and my training was really just playing other sports. I ran 1 hour 23 minutes and I’ve never bettered it. I still have the pink strip of paper in my parent’s house with my time. However, running (even though I liked it) was never my main sport, and it wasn’t until 2005 when I worked at AEGON in Edinburgh that I started running regularly with a small club formed by work colleagues, mainly just to keep fit.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I had always enjoyed doing the small races around North East Fife, and found in 2016 that I was starting to get involved in good race ‘battles’ with Simon Knox. During the Tour of Fife that year Simon invited me along to Dundee Roadrunners. I was a bit apprehensive of going to a much bigger running club and it took me six months to finally attend my first club training night. That was in January 2017, and I’ve never looked back since!
What do you get out of the club?
I’ve always liked the camaraderie within the club after a race or a training session, and there is plenty of friendly chat and encouragement. Being a member of the club committee has also allowed me to get involved with the running of the club which I enjoy being part of.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
All of them! Quite hard to answer; when I’m running with company I really enjoy the Sunday Long Runs (SLR) as there is always good chat and time just flows by. Training for the ultra marathons solo, I love being out in the country or on coastal paths with hard packed trails and just taking in the scenery: for me it is therapeutic, especially if I’ve had a long week at work.
What’s been your favourite running event?
Another tough one to answer, sooo many races! It would have to be The West Highland Way Footrace from Milngavie to Fort William. The build-up to the race and being on the start line in the dark at Milngavie train station with a head torch on is like being ready to be launched into space. Then to begin a mad explorative journey up to Fort William over all sorts of terrain and undulations is the most unbelievable experience. The atmosphere of the event: the friendship shown by competitors, support crews, and volunteers alike is second to none. Being at the final presentation, which starts immediately after the 35 hour cut-off, seeing the final finisher being presented with their glass goblet by the winner of the race is for me the defining spirit of running.
Notable mentions to Inverness Half Marathon, Strathearn Marathon and Bennachie Ultra.
What’s your biggest achievement as a runner?
Completing the Triple Crown in 2024. That’s the Highland Fling, West Highland Way Footrace and Devil o’ The Highlands in the one calendar year. Whilst I had done all these ultras more than once, I hadn’t done them all in the same year in the 16 week window that the races take place. I recorded my slowest time for each individual race and definitely had quite a few moments when things were getting derailed: a heavy fall in the Fling with seven miles to go and a crushed can of Red Bull dribbling down the back of my shorts; West Highland Way the support car needed to be diverted on a three-hour trip and my heart sank; and doing the whole of the Devil with a cracked rib. For the West Highland Way I will always be thankful to Alison, Jane and Jim for their support in getting me through to the end.
What’s the daftest thing you’ve done on a run?
I went for a run with my sister Claire in a forest in Lossiemouth. Claire had given me her car keys to carry on the run and as we were finishing and approaching the forest car park, I pressed the fob to unlock the car doors. Claire had a red car (that’s my basic car knowledge), but there were two red cars parked beside each other. When I got in the front passenger seat, I got an almighty shock when a voice from the driver's seat said ‘You’ve got in the wrong car’.
Any tips for new runners?
Try to diversify your runs, mix up road running with some trails and elevation to keep things interesting and strengthen the legs.
Hi Michael! So, when did you start running and why?
I played a lot of sports when I was at school: cricket, football, tennis, golf and even rugby! Most of these sports involved running to some extent, so I would also enter the school cross country championships. In 1984, aged 15 and inspired by the Los Angeles Olympics, I decided to enter a half marathon which was in Anstruther (the East Neuk 10k predecessor). Health and Safety was a bit different in those days, and my training was really just playing other sports. I ran 1 hour 23 minutes and I’ve never bettered it. I still have the pink strip of paper in my parent’s house with my time. However, running (even though I liked it) was never my main sport, and it wasn’t until 2005 when I worked at AEGON in Edinburgh that I started running regularly with a small club formed by work colleagues, mainly just to keep fit.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
I had always enjoyed doing the small races around North East Fife, and found in 2016 that I was starting to get involved in good race ‘battles’ with Simon Knox. During the Tour of Fife that year Simon invited me along to Dundee Roadrunners. I was a bit apprehensive of going to a much bigger running club and it took me six months to finally attend my first club training night. That was in January 2017, and I’ve never looked back since!
What do you get out of the club?
I’ve always liked the camaraderie within the club after a race or a training session, and there is plenty of friendly chat and encouragement. Being a member of the club committee has also allowed me to get involved with the running of the club which I enjoy being part of.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
All of them! Quite hard to answer; when I’m running with company I really enjoy the Sunday Long Runs (SLR) as there is always good chat and time just flows by. Training for the ultra marathons solo, I love being out in the country or on coastal paths with hard packed trails and just taking in the scenery: for me it is therapeutic, especially if I’ve had a long week at work.
What’s been your favourite running event?
Another tough one to answer, sooo many races! It would have to be The West Highland Way Footrace from Milngavie to Fort William. The build-up to the race and being on the start line in the dark at Milngavie train station with a head torch on is like being ready to be launched into space. Then to begin a mad explorative journey up to Fort William over all sorts of terrain and undulations is the most unbelievable experience. The atmosphere of the event: the friendship shown by competitors, support crews, and volunteers alike is second to none. Being at the final presentation, which starts immediately after the 35 hour cut-off, seeing the final finisher being presented with their glass goblet by the winner of the race is for me the defining spirit of running.
Notable mentions to Inverness Half Marathon, Strathearn Marathon and Bennachie Ultra.
What’s your biggest achievement as a runner?
Completing the Triple Crown in 2024. That’s the Highland Fling, West Highland Way Footrace and Devil o’ The Highlands in the one calendar year. Whilst I had done all these ultras more than once, I hadn’t done them all in the same year in the 16 week window that the races take place. I recorded my slowest time for each individual race and definitely had quite a few moments when things were getting derailed: a heavy fall in the Fling with seven miles to go and a crushed can of Red Bull dribbling down the back of my shorts; West Highland Way the support car needed to be diverted on a three-hour trip and my heart sank; and doing the whole of the Devil with a cracked rib. For the West Highland Way I will always be thankful to Alison, Jane and Jim for their support in getting me through to the end.
What’s the daftest thing you’ve done on a run?
I went for a run with my sister Claire in a forest in Lossiemouth. Claire had given me her car keys to carry on the run and as we were finishing and approaching the forest car park, I pressed the fob to unlock the car doors. Claire had a red car (that’s my basic car knowledge), but there were two red cars parked beside each other. When I got in the front passenger seat, I got an almighty shock when a voice from the driver's seat said ‘You’ve got in the wrong car’.
Any tips for new runners?
Try to diversify your runs, mix up road running with some trails and elevation to keep things interesting and strengthen the legs.
Fíona Canavan
Member since: 2018
Hi Fíona! So, when did you start running and why?
I probably first went for a run when I was 16/17, to keep fit for Gaelic football during school exams when I couldn’t commit to training. I ran verrry sporadically and probably no more than 5km for a good few years. I eventually signed up to Edinburgh Half in 2017 and maybe did one long-ish run and a few 10kms as training, but didn’t quite get the buzz after finishing it. It was really only after joining DRR that I started to enjoy running!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
My partner Marcus had signed up to the Dublin marathon in 2018 and he joined looking for company on his longer runs, as I had absolutely no desire to spend my Sunday running upwards of 25k (at the time, anyway!). He mentioned that I might actually enjoy club training so I went along to a short rep session on the Riverside pitches. It was 30 second reps on grass, so I was right at home given my Gaelic football background - it was exactly like a pre-season training session.. except that it was sunny, warm and none of the coaches were yelling at you to run faster.
What do you get out of the club?
Pals! Joining a club not long after moving to a new city is a great way to meet lots of people instantly. DRR’s friendly reputation holds up. At my first session, Alison McNeilly and Jennifer Massie immediately introduced themselves - and we’re now good friends. As someone not from here, the club is the source of most of my good friends in Dundee!
I’ve also been privileged/foolish enough to join the committee, and enjoyed contributing to the running of the club for 4 years. I still lead MNTB runs; whether leading or just running, these are my favourite club nights.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
My ideal run is about 2-4hrs long, off road somewhere hilly, either solo or with pals. Luckily, if I want company, I can usually find that amongst the DRR gang. It’s nice to be able to say “anyone fancy a hilly run, about 25-27k with 1000m or so of elevation?” and get a “yes!”.
Getting up some bigger hills in summer time is the best way to spend a sunny day, usually hiking most of the way up and running/sliding down.
What's been your favourite running event?
National XC championships in Falkirk - so many people of all ages running and the best atmosphere! But generally all XC. You’re not running for a time, or a PB, you are running to place as high as you can on the day and beat as many people as you can. Training and racing XC during the winter really makes you strong for whatever races crop up in the spring and summer.
I come from a team sport background, and I love that the team aspect really counts in cross country. Even if you’re having a bad run, often you have to grind it out for the sake of the team, and when you finish you don’t feel like its been a total waste of time.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I think running the Cateran Trail ultra last year was probably the biggest.
At 90k, it was as a big jump in distance from the previous 60k that I’d done so there was a lot of unknown. But I had put in a decent training block, reccing the route, without overdoing the mileage, and worked a lot at nutrition, practicing up to 100g carb/hr.
I’m probably mostly satisfied with how it all came together on race day. I started the race without being tired and overtrained, and my fueling strategy seemed to work well as I never really died a death and was running properly right to the end. I really enjoyed the experience from start to finish - it being a local race meant that there were some friendly faces spectating! I also managed to come home first woman, which was the icing on the cake!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Probably twisting my ankle quite badly 18km into the Lairig Ghru race in 2020 and finishing the race. For the uninitiated, it is 43km and it only begins to get technical around the 16km mark.
Recently, I got a bit lightheaded on a short easy trail run about 3k from the car. It was a busy spot, so I asked the next group of people I saw whether they had any sweets or chocolate, which does the trick. For some reason they only had orange juice and chicken wings - which I happily availed of to get back to the car in one piece!
Any top tips for new runners?
1. Take your time building up the distances you run. You don’t have to immediately jump into marathons and ultra marathons, even if it’s tempting!
2. Sort of contradicting the above, it’s also sometimes good to try something that scares you or something where you’re not sure if you’ll finish. I was so terrified going into the Glenshee 9 a few years ago, and it’s still one of my favourite race experiences (even the climb up from the road, IYKYK).
3. Eat! Anything longer than 90mins I bring food or a gel, and I usually bring one to reps. And if you do plan to do longer things, mainlining sugar for hours on end will in fact keep you going.
Hi Fíona! So, when did you start running and why?
I probably first went for a run when I was 16/17, to keep fit for Gaelic football during school exams when I couldn’t commit to training. I ran verrry sporadically and probably no more than 5km for a good few years. I eventually signed up to Edinburgh Half in 2017 and maybe did one long-ish run and a few 10kms as training, but didn’t quite get the buzz after finishing it. It was really only after joining DRR that I started to enjoy running!
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
My partner Marcus had signed up to the Dublin marathon in 2018 and he joined looking for company on his longer runs, as I had absolutely no desire to spend my Sunday running upwards of 25k (at the time, anyway!). He mentioned that I might actually enjoy club training so I went along to a short rep session on the Riverside pitches. It was 30 second reps on grass, so I was right at home given my Gaelic football background - it was exactly like a pre-season training session.. except that it was sunny, warm and none of the coaches were yelling at you to run faster.
What do you get out of the club?
Pals! Joining a club not long after moving to a new city is a great way to meet lots of people instantly. DRR’s friendly reputation holds up. At my first session, Alison McNeilly and Jennifer Massie immediately introduced themselves - and we’re now good friends. As someone not from here, the club is the source of most of my good friends in Dundee!
I’ve also been privileged/foolish enough to join the committee, and enjoyed contributing to the running of the club for 4 years. I still lead MNTB runs; whether leading or just running, these are my favourite club nights.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
My ideal run is about 2-4hrs long, off road somewhere hilly, either solo or with pals. Luckily, if I want company, I can usually find that amongst the DRR gang. It’s nice to be able to say “anyone fancy a hilly run, about 25-27k with 1000m or so of elevation?” and get a “yes!”.
Getting up some bigger hills in summer time is the best way to spend a sunny day, usually hiking most of the way up and running/sliding down.
What's been your favourite running event?
National XC championships in Falkirk - so many people of all ages running and the best atmosphere! But generally all XC. You’re not running for a time, or a PB, you are running to place as high as you can on the day and beat as many people as you can. Training and racing XC during the winter really makes you strong for whatever races crop up in the spring and summer.
I come from a team sport background, and I love that the team aspect really counts in cross country. Even if you’re having a bad run, often you have to grind it out for the sake of the team, and when you finish you don’t feel like its been a total waste of time.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
I think running the Cateran Trail ultra last year was probably the biggest.
At 90k, it was as a big jump in distance from the previous 60k that I’d done so there was a lot of unknown. But I had put in a decent training block, reccing the route, without overdoing the mileage, and worked a lot at nutrition, practicing up to 100g carb/hr.
I’m probably mostly satisfied with how it all came together on race day. I started the race without being tired and overtrained, and my fueling strategy seemed to work well as I never really died a death and was running properly right to the end. I really enjoyed the experience from start to finish - it being a local race meant that there were some friendly faces spectating! I also managed to come home first woman, which was the icing on the cake!
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
Probably twisting my ankle quite badly 18km into the Lairig Ghru race in 2020 and finishing the race. For the uninitiated, it is 43km and it only begins to get technical around the 16km mark.
Recently, I got a bit lightheaded on a short easy trail run about 3k from the car. It was a busy spot, so I asked the next group of people I saw whether they had any sweets or chocolate, which does the trick. For some reason they only had orange juice and chicken wings - which I happily availed of to get back to the car in one piece!
Any top tips for new runners?
1. Take your time building up the distances you run. You don’t have to immediately jump into marathons and ultra marathons, even if it’s tempting!
2. Sort of contradicting the above, it’s also sometimes good to try something that scares you or something where you’re not sure if you’ll finish. I was so terrified going into the Glenshee 9 a few years ago, and it’s still one of my favourite race experiences (even the climb up from the road, IYKYK).
3. Eat! Anything longer than 90mins I bring food or a gel, and I usually bring one to reps. And if you do plan to do longer things, mainlining sugar for hours on end will in fact keep you going.
Eve Martin
Member since: 2023
Hi Eve! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running in May 2023 as I wanted to create some healthier habits for myself. I used to race bikes as a teenager at a national level but had to quit for health reasons. I struggled to find a sport that brought me the same satisfaction as cycling and found myself in limbo, where all I was really doing was working. I went for my first 5k along Riverside and realised running was super fun.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
Family friend Gail Stirling got wind of the fact that I'd been for THREE runs then insisted I came along to a DRR session. It was somewhat of a baptism of fire because it was 6x400m hill reps at Balgay, but I kept coming back, so I must have got some enjoyment from it.
At this point, I had only lived in Dundee for a year, and didn’t really know anyone, so the opportunity to meet new people was also very appealing to me.
What do you get out of the club?
I've made some friends for life that I now often run and socialise with outside of the club. Also, I had really missed the team element of cycling and DRR has a massive sense of camaraderie which matches that of a cycling team.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
If I'm running alone then I love to do intervals and threshold stuff - I love to listen to some music and focus. If I'm in a group or with a friend I love just yapping on an easy run - I’m a big chatterbox.
What's been your favourite running event?
York 10 mile race. It was my first race back after a pretty serious injury. While I had been back running for a while, coming back to racing was always going to be tough mentally, due to concerns of something going wrong again. In the end, it went as well as it could have in a 40 mph wind! I got to run in a city I had lived in for 4 years, but never ran in, saw old friends and my mum along the route, and walked away with a new PB. The decorations and medals were also pink, which is always a winner for me.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Probably the Glen Clova Half Marathon in 2023. As a track cyclist (velodromes), I'd always put myself in a box of not being a ‘climber’ and I had been warned that the course was going to be challenging with all the undulation. It was my second half marathon and I set myself a big goal of under 1.40. Somehow, I dug in and managed a 1.35 and got my first ever running prize with Alison and Hannah, as first women's team. I didn’t stop smiling for days.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
It wasn’t really on the run itself, but when I had to pull out of the Manchester Marathon, my friend pinched a shopping trolley from B&M (naughty because I work for Morrisons) and pushed me to where I could get a taxi to the hospital. I couldn't put any weight on my left leg and was not capable of hopping the mile to the nearest open road. I kept my head down the whole time, it was mortifying. It felt so dramatic at the time but it turned out I had a pretty serious injury that left me on crutches for over a month, so looking back, not that dramatic.
Any top tips for new runners?
Running is amazing, and can take you to so many cool places, but the likelihood is that at some point, there’s going to be a period where you can’t, whether that’s due to injury, illness, or something else. It’s important to have other hobbies outside of just running, as it can help to ease the feeling of boredom when you go through a rough patch. Also, when you do go through one of those, things will get better. Also, stretch.
Hi Eve! So, when did you start running and why?
I started running in May 2023 as I wanted to create some healthier habits for myself. I used to race bikes as a teenager at a national level but had to quit for health reasons. I struggled to find a sport that brought me the same satisfaction as cycling and found myself in limbo, where all I was really doing was working. I went for my first 5k along Riverside and realised running was super fun.
Why did you join Dundee Roadrunners?
Family friend Gail Stirling got wind of the fact that I'd been for THREE runs then insisted I came along to a DRR session. It was somewhat of a baptism of fire because it was 6x400m hill reps at Balgay, but I kept coming back, so I must have got some enjoyment from it.
At this point, I had only lived in Dundee for a year, and didn’t really know anyone, so the opportunity to meet new people was also very appealing to me.
What do you get out of the club?
I've made some friends for life that I now often run and socialise with outside of the club. Also, I had really missed the team element of cycling and DRR has a massive sense of camaraderie which matches that of a cycling team.
What types of runs do you enjoy?
If I'm running alone then I love to do intervals and threshold stuff - I love to listen to some music and focus. If I'm in a group or with a friend I love just yapping on an easy run - I’m a big chatterbox.
What's been your favourite running event?
York 10 mile race. It was my first race back after a pretty serious injury. While I had been back running for a while, coming back to racing was always going to be tough mentally, due to concerns of something going wrong again. In the end, it went as well as it could have in a 40 mph wind! I got to run in a city I had lived in for 4 years, but never ran in, saw old friends and my mum along the route, and walked away with a new PB. The decorations and medals were also pink, which is always a winner for me.
What's your biggest achievement as a runner?
Probably the Glen Clova Half Marathon in 2023. As a track cyclist (velodromes), I'd always put myself in a box of not being a ‘climber’ and I had been warned that the course was going to be challenging with all the undulation. It was my second half marathon and I set myself a big goal of under 1.40. Somehow, I dug in and managed a 1.35 and got my first ever running prize with Alison and Hannah, as first women's team. I didn’t stop smiling for days.
What's the daftest thing you've done on a run?
It wasn’t really on the run itself, but when I had to pull out of the Manchester Marathon, my friend pinched a shopping trolley from B&M (naughty because I work for Morrisons) and pushed me to where I could get a taxi to the hospital. I couldn't put any weight on my left leg and was not capable of hopping the mile to the nearest open road. I kept my head down the whole time, it was mortifying. It felt so dramatic at the time but it turned out I had a pretty serious injury that left me on crutches for over a month, so looking back, not that dramatic.
Any top tips for new runners?
Running is amazing, and can take you to so many cool places, but the likelihood is that at some point, there’s going to be a period where you can’t, whether that’s due to injury, illness, or something else. It’s important to have other hobbies outside of just running, as it can help to ease the feeling of boredom when you go through a rough patch. Also, when you do go through one of those, things will get better. Also, stretch.
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