Can Run Will Run: Warm smiles on a frosty morning

Getting ready: Listening to the Run Director at the start
of the first Cannock Chase parkrun.

Event: Cannock Chase inaugural parkrun
Location: Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
Date: 19/11/16

WELL, that was a cold ‘un – but what a great event! I was taking part in the first Cannock Chase parkrun.

When I looked out of the window before setting off and saw frost-covered cars and houses, I must confess, I had slight misgivings. It looked, well, pretty chilly!

And so it proved to be.

Frosted route: Runners make their
way to the start

But how could I miss the first parkrun in this beautiful setting?

Earlier in the year, I completed my first trail run - the Chase Challenge - staged by the brilliant Mash Running crew, and also took part in Stafford’s excellent first 10k a couple of months ago, organised by the council.

So the parkrun would make a fitting ‘trio of firsts’ for that area.

The idea for such a run has been around for a while. There’s actually a discussion on the subject in Runner’s World back in 2009!

But, at last, here it was in all its early-morning (shivering) reality!

There’s always a friendly, buzzing atmosphere at parkrun, but today this was enhanced by the sense of anticipation accompanying the new event. People were there to enjoy themselves and give their all. You could sense the excitement. Even the colourful running gear seemed more vibrant in the low November sun.

People milled around the visitor centre off Brindley Heath Road, checking their watches, easing through a few stretches, swapping parkrun stories. For some, this was their first

Final check: Nearly ready to go.

outing; others wore the coveted black t-shirt proudly proclaiming 250 parkruns!

A big strength of parkrun is that it accommodates people of all ages and abilities. You certainly don’t have to be some rocket-fast elite runner to take part!

We were eventually directed over to the start, in Marquis Drive. It was packed. But even with all that body heat, there was still a sharp nip in the air.

After the welcome by run directors Darren Mattocks and Ellen Williams, we were off. Despite being slightly icy underfoot in parts, it wasn't actually too bad.

Running on Cannock Chase is exhilarating, and this mixed-surface route did not disappoint. The course follows a smaller loop, then a larger one. You start on smooth tarmac, before turning towards more trail tracks through trees. There's a short downhill and fairly gentle slope, before you head back to the smooth tarmac for the second loop. You then follow marked trail tracks through beautiful scenery until eventually returning to the 'home section' and filtering onto grass for your final sprint (legs willing!) to the finish.

Colour run: Autumn hues add to the atmosphere.

The clear blue sky, shimmering autumn colours and sun at least trying to inject a little warmth into the event, were uplifting. There was enough variety to make it interesting for experienced runners, but gentle – yet still challenging enough - for others.

There was a great sense of satisfaction and achievement at the finish line. People were commenting on how it had been a ‘great run.’ One even remarked: ‘That was perfect!’

First to cross the line was Phillip Hilsdon, of Stafford Harriers, in 17.29.

But there was growing excitement as the numbers were clicked in: 100, 200, 250, 300, 375, 400 – almost like at an auction, the figure kept rising. Final count – 569 participants!

A fabulous turn out for this first event!

I understand that the finish tokens ran out and the team had to take down details by hand. That really is 'thinking on your feet.'

Finish line: Completing the run in style.

My home parkrun is Coventry, but I have links with Stafford and love running on the Chase. This wonderful new parkrun is now definitely on my running calendar.

The whole event wouldn’t be possible, of course, without the magnificent volunteers, and they did a fantastic job. It can be (and was) cold enough running, but when you’re simply standing at your post, guiding those runners and offering support, you can get chilled to the bone.

Despite the low temperature, there were warm smiles and encouragement all round.

So Top Marks Cannock Chase team, your efforts are much appreciated! A well-organised inaugural event, receiving a big thumbs up!

Here's to many more runs in this stunning location.