Happy Orthodox Easter to everyone, hope the Easter Bunny came running your way, maybe twice this year as the Christian Easter was in April. Another good reason for us to get our running shoes on after eating all that lovely chocolate!!
It’s been a very busy time for West Coast Runners both here in Cyprus and in the UK. Several races have taken place over the last couple of months, and we share here a few thoughts from our runners.
London Winter Run – Karen Brand
We have several overseas members who join us on their many visits to Cyprus. One of those is Karen Brand who back in February took part in the London Winter 10km run in aid of Cancer Research UK.
After an early start on a chilly & overcast morning, perfect for running, the course took Karen & other members of her UK Club though the streets of London passing many famous landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Theatreland, City of London and St Paul’s Cathedral. It was a lovely atmosphere with drummers and choirs along the route to cheer everyone on. Karen really enjoyed the run and has already booked to take part next year. Well done Karen.
WCR on Tour
Continuing our series of West Coast Runners on tour – Louise Robinson-Georgiou recently went to Egypt on honeymoon following her marriage to Nick in November. Up and out early before the delicious “breakfast cakes” Louise completed an 8 km run. Well done Louise.
Lefkara 4km Vertical Challenge & 13km Country Run
Neil Bithell and Louise Robinson-Georgiou ran the 13km Lefkara Country Run in March which with a gradient of 475, most of which was on the last 2km, was brutal. Neil also completed the 4km vertical challenge the previous day with an elevation of 435. Both said it was tough but a very rewarding achievement. The organization was excellent with a good selection of refreshments after both races. This event was well supported, taking in the beautiful village and spectacular views.
Ayia Napa Half Marathon for Autism
Over 3,000 runners took part in this race over the different distances. The atmosphere was great with the weather being un-seasonally hot, but a lot of money was raised for this very worthy cause. Neil Bithell, Diana Henry-Ward and Ruth Poole took part and Neil achieved a personal best of 1.48.42. Well done Neil and to all runners.
Unfortunately, we can’t share all our photos here so please look at our Facebook page to see all our runners’ achievements and if you would like to join us at any of our weekly runs you will find our schedule there which is updated monthly together with an events schedule for races all over the island.
Of course it is not all about entering races, we are a small, friendly club that extends a welcome to runners of all abilities and beginners alike. Our Couch to 5k course is under way helping several people back into and starting their running journey. . If you would like to talk to someone, please contact Di on 97761015 or Gerry on 99926291. We look forward to hearing from you
West Coast Walkers
Our walking group have continued to meet every Monday morning at various places around the Paphos and surrounding areas.
One of the most exciting and enjoyable walks was to the Blue Lagoon. We met at the Baths of Aphrodite and walked along the coast to the Blue Lagoon and back. A lovely, gentle 10 km walk taking in all the wonderful views along the way. Afterwards everyone enjoyed a lovely lunch at Latchi harbour. This walk is one that will definitely be repeated at some point.
If you are interested in joining our walkers, please see the West Coast Walkers Facebook page for meeting points and start time. You will also see great photographs of all our walks.
