New runners graduate at their local parkrun in Kent

Twenty-eight people recently completed an eight-week Couch 2 5K beginners' course delivered by the Rebel Runners - Medway running group in Kent.

The sessions took place at Great Lines Heritage Park in Gillingham with all the runners completing the Great Lines parkrun at the end of the C25K course.  The course started in January and took place every Saturday with additional 'homework' runs during the week. The graduates faced freezing wind, rain and even snow, but that didn't seem to put them off!  The support and encouragement from the Leaders and volunteer members kept them coming back for more.

Jenny Baldock, Rebel Runners - Medway Group Leader said, "They've all done fantastically well and should be really proud of themselves. It's been very rewarding being part of their running journey and we really look forward to helping them build on their running over the coming months."

All the C25K graduates received certificates and medals on completing the course. This took place at their local Great Lines parkrun.

Lucy Tomlinson, Run Kent Activator said, "Many of our Run England registered groups here in Kent offer Couch 2 5k courses for beginner runners.  It's a great way to start running for people who are nervous or perhaps don't believe that they can run. Well done to The Rebel Runners - Medway for proving that anyone can take up running with the help and support of a Group. I'm sure their next C25K course will be just as popular."

Diana Wilks, graduate of the C25k course said, "Thank you for all your time, support and confidence for getting me through my C25k journey. I'm so happy to have finished the Great Lines parkrun in under 35mins".

Cassandra Whiting, another graduate added,"Thanks Rebel Runners for giving up your free time to get me through the last 8 weeks. I can't believe I've just run my first parkrun!"

If you'd like to join a beginners' running course in your area, please contact your local running group www.runengland.org/groups. For more information about parkrun events, please visit: www.parkrun.org.uk