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Blazebuster

QUOTE - “As often happens with our Thursday runs in Comrie, the run descended into chaos with various sub groups dispersing across the countryside.”

We must change chaos in to order.

I start by saying I had a great time last Thursday, it was a beautiful night and the company was supportive & fun. Lara was so pleased to be able to run beside proper runners for a change.
Laughing

However, there is definitely room for improvement.
Here are my opinions/suggestions for debate:-

1. On Club runs no one ever gets left behind to run on their own.
2. No matter how many runners turn up, there has to be a designated ‘Run Leader’ who will look after the whole group.
3. We could easily split into ability groups with a designated ‘Run leader’ for each group.
4. We need to ensure a clear communication and understanding of intended run route at the start. ‘Run Leaders’ responsible for ensuring everybody within their group stays together and arrives at designated stops.

So here is a hypothetical run / proposal for next Thursday (Names used for presentation purposes only).
11 runners turn up, route over ‘Shaky Bridge & Maam road suggested.
Looking at the members who’ve turned up, it is decided to split into two ability groups.
Phil Tipping to be designated ‘Run Leader’ for group 1 (the fast runners)
Simon designated ‘Run Leader’ to baby sit group 2 (the slow runners)

The ‘Run Leaders’ agree for both groups to meet at the junction of the road & path next to ‘Shaky Bridge’ – Then top of the hill at Maam Road – Then above Lechkin Farm where the path meets the road.

Group 1 heads off for the Balmick Farm road route to Shaky Bridge.
Group 2 heads straight past the school & up the path past both cauldrons.
All Meet Together next to shaky Bridge.

Group 1 then runs up Maam road and up round the Monument.
Group 2 runs up the Maam Road but not up the Monument.
All meet at the top of the Maam road.

Both groups run down the hill to Dunira and up to join road.
All meet up where path meets road.
Both groups run TOGETHER back into Comrie as one single unit.

This allows us all to run together as a united club, but, lets the stronger runners, run further & faster than the less able.

The above is just an example, there are loads of circuits within circuits in and around Comrie and Crieff.

I am not trying to rock the apple cart and spoil anybodies fun, the above is open for debate and your own suggestions. The confusion & chaos must be addressed.

I look forward to your responses.
Wink

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Simon · Joined: 29 Sep 2007 Posts: 36

I think that in theory that is a great idea George. It does depend on who and how many turn up. I am not being negative and if we have similar numbers to last week ( which was an excellent club run ) then there is no reason why your idea would not work. I do agree that no club members should be left on their own, on club runs and the faster runners should take turns in running at a slower pace ( no bad thing if you ask me )
Unfortunately as I am away this Thurs I will not see if your plan is put into action. I would certainly agree that we have to give it a go, as we as a club need to encourage more runners out on our club runs.( and seeing a clean pair of heels fading into the distance every time is not very encouraging)
Another plan for encouraging participation might be a drink in the Royal after our Thurs runs to help make them more social !

Allan · Joined: 29 Sep 2007 Posts: 123

good idea for the run leaders- we could even get yellow bibs with L on the back and everyone takes a turn leading a group- good for all. That way everyone will be encouraged to run outwith their comfort zones- fast to slow and slow to faster.

the drink at the Royal could also be incentivised i.e. first finish pay for the drinks!!

Is anyone running the Pollok 10k on Saturday?

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