A Great Run Local Family Affair
This year, Great Run Local Souter Lighthouse celebrated its 50th event and there have been many success stories along the way, none more so than the Henderson Family.
Jeff Henderson (pictured above), who began his Great Run Local journey at Gibside and Sunderland Mowbray Park, is now a regular face at Souter Lighthouse and celebrated his 100th run in 2018, completing 124 runs to date! That's a total run time of 50:40:10!
"It's the best way to start off a Sunday." says Jeff. "All standards are welcome and there is no elitist attitude which makes it a super friendly event. The volunteers are the best bar none!"
Each week, Jeff is encouraged by Brother Dave, who has been coming along to support Jeff since Great Run Local Souter Lighthouse launched in September 2017. He has sat on the side-lines, cheering on his brother in all kinds of weather, until four months ago…
On July 8th, Dave Henderson decided he would start taking part regularly in the 2k event. Since he embarked on his running journey, Dave has now completed almost 20 2k runs at Souter Lighthouse, with his time and fitness improving every week.
"I love coming to Great Run Local. It helps me to keep fit, lose weight and I meet some great people. I love coming every week to see if I can get a PB."
Dave Henderson (right) walking alongside dad Fred (left) at Great Run Local Souter Lighthouse
But just as he motivated his brother Jeff every week, Dave is not short of encouragement himself. He is regularly accompanied by his dad, Fred Henderson, who is a frequent 2k tail walker at the event.
"We love this run and really enjoy taking part as a family" says Fred. "We enjoy Great Run Local because of the friendly atmosphere, and that's down to the organisers, volunteers and the rest of the runners!"
And it's this community atmosphere and encouragement from the regular runners and volunteers that got Dave into walking and running in the first place – and of course, the support from his family!