Blog archive

250 runners squared up at the start-line of the well-marshalled course, each with a number pinned to their vests. After a traditional starter's pistol fired (which made me jump as I was way too close to the shooter), the elite group soon sped off, leaving the rest of us languishing in their wake. Being in the Government Relations team at LOCOG, I did spot the clerk of the Media and Sport Committee in the Commons right at the front of the elite pack - I decided to let him win, of course. It had absolutely nothing to do with him being able to run so much quicker.

The race was full of people of all abilities, and while running down the hills was fine, the knowledge that we would shortly have to run up a similar gradient straight afterwards was daunting for those of us not lucky enough to be part of the elite. But the supporters were every bit as vocal for us as for the leading runners, so as you finally overcame the last hill and crossed the finish-line you still felt the same sense of achievement as the winners.

The race winner managed the tough 10km in an astonishing 32 minutes, and he collected his prize at a presentation outside of the Pavilion Tea Rooms where London 2012 had hosted consultation events back in the autumn as part of our moves to engage with park users and local residents.

Straight afterwards, a 2km fun run was held for those who couldn’t face the full 10 kilometers, so I stayed to shout them on as vocal supporters are such an important motivation. The 2km runners were mainly small children running together or with the occasional friend or parent. They were all grinning before they were out of breath – and clearly relished taking part, each wearing their official numbers with pride. 

It was great to see kids doing something different on a Sunday that didn't involve watching television – and if they felt the same achievement crossing the finish line then maybe we just glimpsed the next generation of UK runners for future Games being inspired. They will still be kids in 2012, but hopefully they will then come to see the Olympic and Paralympic magic that will happen here in three and a half years' time. Sport, young people and a stunning backdrop – well worth dusting off the old trainers for.