New runners will soon start pounding the paths of Coate Water again. The Swindon Shin Splints running group is starting a free 10-week course for beginners on Saturday (28 Jan) and is always on the look-out for new runners.
The group was formed two years ago by Swindon Borough Council and aims to help runners of all abilities to improve and to train regularly and in particular to train for either the 13.1-mile Swindon Half Marathon, the five-mile multi terrain or the two-mile fun run.
More than 400 people have registered with the Shin Splints group since its inception and an average of 90 people were regularly taking part in the running sessions at Coate Water every Saturday morning at 8.45am last year. The group also attracted in excess of 50 people every Wednesday evening for its training run.
Ten mentors are always on hand to give out handy hints and tips on how to prepare for all of the three races at the Swindon Half Marathon event. The Shin Splints operate four sub groups including a rolling beginners’ group, so that people can join at any time throughout the year. This also applies to regular runners who want to join the group at any level.
Organised by Swindon Borough Council, the half marathon starts on the southern edge of Swindon and winds its way through some of the prettiest neighbouring villages, taking in outstanding views, which more than compensate for the undulating parts of the course the runners face before heading back into the town.
Cllr Keith Williams, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Corporate Services, said: “I’m really pleased the Shin Splints is continuing to go from strength to strength as I know a number of runners benefitted from the mentoring and friendship on offer from the group last year.
“Running is a great way to improve your fitness and the Shin Splints can help you achieve your goals. The group encouraged a lot of people to take part in the half marathon last year and hopefully even more people will take up the challenge.”
Anyone interested in joining the Shin Splints should just meet in the Sun Inn at Coate Water at 8.45am on any Saturday morning or call Cathy on 07977 915606 or through the Facebook page www.facebook.com/shinsplints