Andy Ward

Stopsley Strider Club Member Profile
This months club member is Andy Ward, aged 67

University lecturer in Engineering Systems, and he describes himself as happily retired

Did you do sport at school?
No, I was hopeless

When did you start running & why?
I was inspired by the 1982 London Marathon but didn’t start jogging in 1985 when I was late collecting my car from the garage!

What made you come to Stopsley Striders?
Had heard of the jogging club and joined 1st June 1987

What is your favourite run/course?
Caddington to Pepperstock and then down the lanes to Kinsbourne Green, return via A1081, Stockwood Park, Aley Green and home (Caddington)

What is your best run?
Joined Striders in June 87, ran Luton 10 in September 87 in 80 mins taking 18.30 mins off my previous years time!

What was your worst run?
Paris marathon, not enough rest before the race.

What was your most memorable run?
The 5k World Aquathlon Championships 2013, Hyde Park

Do you like cross country?
Yes, I love it! Mud, pain and a good training effect

Grandchildren, swimming, biking, cooking, classical music, watching biathlon.

How many times a week do you run? 
2 or 3 depending on biking and swimming sessions

What is your average weekly mileage?
About 15 miles per week unless marathon training

Do you do speed work or specialist training?
I join in some speed work / hill sessions. Also gym for some weights and spinning classes

What is your favourite training session or route?
A “Brick” session of 23 miles bike to St Albans and back, then 4 miles run to Stockwood Park and back

When did you start triathlons 
September 1991 at Witham near Chelmsford

How did the first one go?
Eventually ok, but the 6 minute transition should have been on “Candid Camera” or “U tube” in modern times

Do you follow a diet regime before competing?
Yes, eat a lot and drink water (and a tiny glass of red wine)

Comfortable trainers

You are a “Fitness Instructor” what does this entail?
I was a Personal Trainer and Gym Instructor for 5 years helping people to develop a fitness regime. Now retired

What motivates you?
Then “Buzz” and atmosphere of competitions, camaraderie,  friendship and beating the youngsters!

Who is your hero?
My Nan, born to a large poor family in France. Worked very hard bringing up her family during WW2, but still had the energy and love to care for her Grandchildren.

What do you like about the club?
As I get older I appreciate the friendship and banter

What would be your advice to a new club member?
Listen to other club members and learn from their experience. Try different techniques in training and not in races. Learn from mistakes. Build up your own race distances gradually. Keep hydrated and ENJOY!

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