April has seen our first full month “in lockdown” and without being able to meet and run. Despite this, the Earlswood Running Club spirit has been alive and well through our virtual activities and our Facebook group, ERC Virtual.

At the start of the month, we launched our Running Bingo challenge, with the aim of keeping us running and motivated in these difficult times. Squares ranged from “Redhill Common trig point” to “take a mid-run selfie”, and we have really enjoyed seeing everyone’s progress towards completing their card. At the time of writing, we have two members who have completed their card, ticking off all 25 challenges. A great achievement and a lot of running!

We also undertook a group challenge to “run” from our local Earlswood Lakes to Earlswood Lakes in Solihull. The distance between the two was 128 miles (206 km), which we covered in 22 hours and 38 seconds. Members ran and then submitted their distance and time, making this a really great group activity.

Spurred on by this success, we also got involved in the 2.6 challenge to raise money for The Children’s Trust in Tadworth. On Sunday 26 April, we pledged to run, jog or walk at least 2.6 miles and to donate at least £2.60. In total, we had 69 people take part, covered a total of 284 miles and raised £905.

Throughout the month, we have also been submitting pictures for our weekly “Tops In Isolation” competition.

It has been so fantastic to see so many members joining in with these virtual activities, and it really does help us all keep motivated and challenged. Of course, I miss the “real” running so much, and I am so looking forward to when we can get together again.

Until then, keep safe and happy running,

Kate x