What is it that makes your run special?
SJ: Our partnership with AUT Running Mechanics Clinic who lead our runs, map the routes and are also on hand to advise our adiRunners on all things running - from techniques to stretching.
PP: We offer a 5km run in the heart of Kingsland which is free to our members and local residents. You get to meet some cool people. All runs finish at the Neighbourhood Bar.
GR: The Rat Race is every Wednesday at 6pm from the Milford Cruising Club. It is a certified 5km every Wednesday all year round apart from the three-week Christmas and New Year break. Our event has real character. I use my Siberian huskies as marshals and on Mother's Day all the mums got a one-minute head start. Anzac Cookies for Anzac Day, dress ups for other special days and lolly scrambles are part of it all.
What is the best thing about being involved in a running club?
SJ: People get the opportunity to train with other like-minded people in a social setting. Clubs such as ours cater for all types of runners - we're definitely not overly competitive - those who want to run purely for the fitness and the social aspect and those who are training for something specific and want to push themselves extra hard.
PP: If you are lacking in motivation or training for a special event it is a great way to push yourself and work harder than you would if you run on your own.
GR: Hundreds of personal trainers for free. We cater for walkers as well and insist on reflective after dark. The organisers are volunteers and "also rans" and proceeds benefit the Takapuna Harriers Club. Some outstanding times have been set on the Rat Race course but safety and family participation are our priorities.
How long has it been going for and how many people do you attract each week?
SJ: Our adiRun club started in 2005, and at the moment we see around 70 runners each week.
PP: The run started in October 2011. We range from 10-30 runners every week.
GR: This is our 17th year but we have been going for almost 60 years as Takapuna Harriers. [We also have] a Brat Race for 18 years and under which is usually about one-third of the field up to 100 regulars. We welcome newcomers, especially overseas visitors and usually send them the wrong way, as Rats do - just joking!
How much does it cost and are there benefits to being part of the club (free drinks / podiatry training / physio / running tips)?
SJ: adiRun is completely free, we provide maps, drinking water and high visibility sashes in the darker winter months. Every new adiRunner receives a discount card to use in our adidas stores and we have a rewards programme for regular runners. The AUT Running Mechanics team are specialists in all aspects of running and support all of our runners who need advice on training.
PP: Our run is free. We also provide soft drinks. We offer free physio treatment at Active Physio off New North Road. I am also willing to offer lots of advice as an experienced marathon runner myself.
GR: It is $6 for Rats, $3 Brats (under 18) which includes a free drink (beer, wine, soft drink), we have a weekly $2 meat raffle, spot prizes and Rat Bag (booby prize). All results from the Rat Race are published on Cool Running website so runners can track their progress. You also receive free entry in Takapuna runs, socials and training groups.
Are there any special invitations / discounts for other bigger runs coming up?
SJ: At the beginning of the year we gave away 10 free entries to the adidas Auckland Marathon. At the marathon we will set up free VIP areas at both the start and the finish. adiRunners who complete 10 runs by the time the marathon comes around will get the VIP pass.
PP: We have a large group participating in the Tough Guy/Girl challenge [June 30] and Auckland Marathon and they are training hard together for that.
GR: We have flyers for other events available and let our group know of events that they can be building towards.
What is the age range like in this run - is it for the elite or runners of all abilities?
SJ: We have all ages ranging from as young as 11 up to those in their 60s, with a wide variety of abilities from beginners, like me, all the way up to professionals.
PP: We have a mix of all ages and abilities. That makes for a competitive and social environment.
GR: We have all sorts. From babies in a pushchair to runners who are around 80. We have people of all abilities so it is a great environment to get into running. Walkers start earlier but there is a cut off time. The records for the Rat Race are Male 14.33, Female 16.15 and Pushchair 19.98.
What advice do you offer people looking to get into a running club?
SJ: Just get out there and give it a try. Go somewhere where you can be motivated with a group of people or if you prefer to do it alone - go for it and walk, jog or run. Start off small, set small goals that way they are easier achieved. We know it's hard to head out in winter, but once the endorphins kick in, you'll be hooked.
PP: If you want to run but are struggling for motivation then a running club will certainly help. We offer free programmes, advice and an environment that motivates.
GR: Run or walk with your dogs, friends, children and grandchildren. You'll soon have your very own club. I have, although mine are huskies. If not, join a running club - you'll find it addictive. It makes the winter months fly by.
