Great run veterans show off medals of success

Three runners who have been there, done that and quite literally got the t-shirt when it comes to the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run came together this week to celebrate the event’s ‘two months to go’ mark.

Glasgow boys Stewart Jameson, Drew Riddell and Martin Caldwell took to Glasgow’s Clydeside to celebrate having run an amazing 101 Great Scottish Run events between them since 1984 and to look forward to this year’s event taking place on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September.

With participants being challenged to be their greatest at this year’s Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run, astonishingly, the amateur runners from Glasgow have all taken part in the run without a break since the 1980s - clocking up an incredible 2,130 kilometres between them.

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More so, the gentlemen all took up running in their 30’s and 40’s, showing that anyone can take part, whatever their age.

Stewart Jameson, 71, said: “I remember watching the runners taking part in the first ever Great Scottish Run in Glasgow that was open to the public, and saying to my wife that I was going to compete the following year. When I laced up my running shoes for the first time to begin my training, I had no idea that all those years down the line I’d be getting ready to take part in my 37th consecutive race.”

Drew Ridell, 61, said: “I wasn’t a keen runner to begin with and it was my brother and his friend that had to talk me in to taking part in my first Great Scottish Run in 1984, however there is something really special about the event that keeps me coming back year after year and I can’t wait to compete in what will be my 35th event this September.”

Martin Caldwell, 66 and now living in Edinburgh said: “Every year the event just gets better and better. My neighbour suggested that I take part in 1988 and I’ve not looked back. Whether you are a serious runner or just keen to take part and keep fit, there is something for everyone at the Great Scottish Run.”

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The veteran runners have shown that setting yourself a challenge and sticking to it can get you far.

Martin continued, “I was 34 when I started running due to wanting to keep fit and healthy. I started off by setting myself small challenges around distance and time and this really helped me get to where I am today. And, even though my timings are getting slower as I get older, I always aim to beat the 1 hour 30 mark – having that challenge just pushes me through training and on race day.”

The runners also paid testament to the people of Glasgow, who they feel make the event what it is today.

Stewart added: “The Great Scottish Run is all about the people; the crowds cheering from the sides and the camaraderie amongst the runners. Just standing in George Square at the starting line, you know you will finish with the crowds of well-wishers and spectators willing you across the finish line.”

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The Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run is a two-day celebration of sport in the heart of Glasgow. The Family Mile, Junior Run and Toddler Dash will take place on Super Saturday, 28 September, while both the 10k and half marathon will be staged on Sunday 29 September. Up to 30,000 runners of all ages and abilities are expected to take part across the weekend.

The iconic run will once again be supported by Bank of Scotland, who this year are celebrating their eleventh year as partner.

For more information and to enter the bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run visit Great Scottish Run

You can follow the event on Twitter @GreatScotRun using #GreatScottishRun or Facebook