Meet the Member – Christine Ritchie
When we approached Christine to take part in our Meet the Member slot, she responded with, “there must be someone with a more interesting running story than me . . . ” That is just the response you would expect from this modest lady. It is most definitely not the case. Christine is a great club member – a regular age group podium finisher and always willing to help others on their training runs.
Over to Christine, to tell us a bit about what running means to her;
Q1: When did you start Running?
CR: I always enjoyed keeping fit by going to the gym and cycling – and even going for short runs round the block. Before I joined Macc harriers I did the Manchester 10k, very slowly, in 2012. I found it hard to train on my own but loved the race.
Q2: How long have you been a Macclesfield Harrier?
CR: I joined Macc Harriers in December 2014. My daughter, Kate, had been a Macc Harrier when she was at school so I knew Bob and Pauline. At a chance meeting with them they persuaded me to try the Wednesday D Group road runs. I thought it was the hardest thing in the world to keep up and am very grateful for the supportive loopers and leaders that kept me going. To get fitter I would repeat the Wednesday run twice during week and kept that routine going for the next few months until I was able to both keep up and then, amazingly, help loop back!
Q3: What has been your favourite race and why?
CR: The Congleton Half Marathon was my first club race. A couple of friends from D group helped me to build the miles up – thank you! I was amazed at how the longer runs helped with general running fitness and pace.
The Bollington Three Peaks Fell Race has to be a favourite – sunshine, great route followed by beer and chilli! Also the Wincle Trout Run for the river crossing and Bowstones Fell race for the fancy dress. I enjoy road and off-road races, and although the competitive side can be nerve-wracking initially, it really is just good fun.
Q4 – What does running mean to you?
CR: Fitness, fresh air, beautiful countryside, and conversation with great friends. I wish I had joined the Harriers when I was a lot younger but then running helps to keep me feeling young.
Q5 – Do you have a top tip for other runners?
CR: Run regularly with other like-minded people and always stick with a good post-run stretching routine.
*Anything else to add?
CR: Macclesfield Harriers is a brilliant running club – very supportive and super friendly – with a place for just about every pace. A great bunch of run leaders offer so many running options throughout the week that you could say members are spoiled for choice.