Falkland
Trail Runners
FTR
1
1
SUCCESS STORY
OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The first step to fitness is the most important. Falkland Trail Runners
created their “Get Fit Falkland” scheme. This is based upon the proven
NHS “Couch to 5k” programme and encourages that first step.
We know the things that put people off starting to exercise. So we can help
those who want to, but are scared to, change their lives. We can help them
overcome inhibition and minimise fear.
There are a lot of “get fit” programmes. Many do a great job of getting
people active. But what then? What does the new athlete do when they’ve
achieved the relatively low-level goals of their chosen programme?
Falkland Trail Runners has implemented a structured approach to the
development process. Learning from best practice, individuals are
encouraged to progress to a level they want to achieve, at a pace they feel is
comfortable. Our “Transition Group” takes the new runner from an ability
to run 5km to being comfortable at double that distance. Then, along with
our more experienced members, they have the opportunity to learn more
about the technicalities of running, performance, different terrains, etc. We
try, in effect, to be the “Growmore” of running.
Inclusivity is a fantastic goal. Allowing everyone to be the best they can be.
But those who want to be the best must aim for levels that some others can’t
achieve.
For that reason, Falkland Trail Runners is developing programmes to help
those with exceptional ability and drive. To run faster, on the flat and hills,
for longer. Just as the club has enabled the training of jog leaders, it is also
investing in the development of new coaches for our members.
Photo: Gordon Donnachie
Since it was founded, Falkland Trail Runners has organised dozens of
events, each one building on the quality and reputation of those before it.
The discipline of trail running is exploding, not just in Falkland or
Scotland, but world-wide. Falkland Trail Runners emerged at just the right
time to take advantage of this latent interest in running through our natural
beauty.
They offer new events that challenge experienced runners while remaining
achievable by the ordinary person.
Most noticeable is the type of entrant and member. We seem to attract an
eclectic range of people. Skinny and overweight, young and old, fast and
slow, beginners and experienced club runners. And everything in between!
They come from all over Fife and throughout Scotland. And our trail
running events have provided an unexpected bonus. People come to run in
Falkland Estate, become enthralled by its beauty, then return with their
families. And when they return, they bring useful additional income to the
town’s businesses such as eateries and shops.
It would be easy to turn up to a local running club, have a nice run, a
chat with new friends, then head home.
Falkland Trail Runners takes another view. It wants to be part of the
community - to support the community and be valued by the
community.
Falkland Trail Runners organise several events each year. Some of the
proceeds go towards developing the club, but it also makes frequent and
generous donations to community causes, including:
Contributions towards the upkeep of trails in Falkland Estate
Donations to (e.g.) old folks’ Christmas meal
Support for Falkland War Memorial
over
7000
donated
Funds for the Friends of Craigtoun Country Park
Asssistance for charities nominated by our members
Co-operation and collaboration with other clubs and other sports
Support for the sporting and health objectives of
the Scottish Government
population
of Falkland
1180
Affiliation to, and proactive support for, the main
sporting bodies, e.g.
The Association of Running Clubs, scottish
“Get Fit Falkland” - a massively successful
programme that encourages couch potatoes to get active
Falkland
Trail
Runners
Get Fit
Falkland
244
172
members
members
Jim Close, Secretary, Falkland Trail Runners
5 Unthank Cottages, Freuchie, Cupar, KY15 7HS
01337 857635 | 07557 503588 | [email protected]