Gazette

A feel for running

By Kara Irving

3rd February 2010 02:00:08 AM

Brenda says her running makes her feel like a greyhound.

BRENDA Watts loves to run.

She trains four to five times a week, usually in three and eight kilometre bursts and most likely after a big day at work.

But despite her restricted training regime, Brenda still has her weaknesses.

“I love chocolate” she confesses “and junk food, too.”

In March the Catani based horse trainer will try and regain her two year title in the women’s four kilometre race a part of the Lakeside Fun Run, held at the Lakeside Estate in Pakenham.

“I’ve been running since my late 30s and now I’m in my mid-40s. The only reason why I (started running) was because one of my horses broke its splint bone and I was no longer able to ride,” Brenda said.

Having nothing to keep her occupied, Brenda started jogging 800 metre laps around her property. Once achieved, Brenda began entering - and eventually winning - local fun run events, including the Spring into Shape five kilometre series.

And with her husband competing in many of the larger marathons in the city, Brenda thinks it’s great that the Lakeside Fun Run began in Pakenham because she no longer has to travel an hour to city events.

“There must be so many people out there who think they can’t run but my husband has always told me to ‘run as you feel’ and now I feel I could run like a greyhound. Ever since I’ve been running I feel so much better.”

Each year the Cardinia Life YMCA event attracts an average of 400 participants and encourages people of all ages to walk or run in the four kilometre race or to brave the infamous eight kilometre event.

The first 200 entrants to the Lakeside event will receive a free T-shirt, with prizes awarded to those who place first, second or third in any category.

Registration for the Lakeside Fun Run will close at 8.30am on the 28 March with the race beginning at 9am.

For more information about the event call Cardinia Life on 5945 2888.