Sidmouth Running Club juniors received an inspiring visit from Olympian Jo Pavey MBE during their end-of-term session before the summer break.
Pavey, a distinguished Olympian, walked the eager club members through her journey, from grassroots running to life in an Olympic Village, which she described as very distracting with lots of food options.
She also took time to answer multiple questions and even offered the young athletes the opportunity to see and wear her hefty medals, including her Commonwealth gold.
The session with Pavey was not all motivational talk, it was also physical action as all participants took a brief run together.
Once back indoors, there was a recognising the young talent of the club and the awarding of multiple commendations to the budding runners by junior coaches Donna and Grahame Womersley-Westlake.
Jude and Freyja Carson were recognised as the most improved male and female respectively, followed by Marcus Wieffer and Flynn Lancaster, best loopers under 11 and over 11.
Christopher Witowski and Amelia Womersley were mentioned for most representation of SRC at events; Samuel Crompton for most encouraging; Hunter Ingram for most supportive and Emily Smith and Louis Bridges won recognition for best attendance under 11 and over 11 respectively.
Jack Westlake took home the chairman’s award with more awards recognising effort and positive contribution to the club for several students.
As the evening came to a close, the jubilant juniors watched awards being presented by not only their coaches but also by Pavey.
The club expressed sincere appreciation to the Olympian for taking time to spend with the juniors.
Grahame Womersley-Westlake, one of the coaches said: "Can’t wait to see what another year of running with these stars will bring!"
SRC also had its juniors taking part in active engagements outside the club's setting.
In another event, four SRC juniors braved wet conditions to take on the Pretty Muddy 5k run in aid of Cancer Research, raising an impressive £495.
Reuben Johnson, Amelia Womersley, Emily Smith, and Jude Carson comprised the quartet that faced and conquered a course filled with obstacles, finishing at different times and raising money while making memories.
The junior section is open to new members from September, with sessions every Wednesday evening.
Those interested in experiencing the world of running and being part of this energetic community can simply reach out to the club via their website.
Sidmouth Running Club, beyond fostering athletics and nurturing talent, enjoys an active presence in its community.
The club recently participated in the community flag project organised by Sidmouth School of Art, adding its flag to those brightening up the town.
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