Club news

Ladies and gentlemen, let me tell you a story about a man who belongs to the Redway Runners. A man who comes from South Shields and found his way onto the paths of Milton Keynes. A member of 11 years, he paved possibilities for other runners. ‘The Legend’ earned his nickname from early days in the clubs infancy.

Every ‘legend’ has a story and this one belongs to Tony Daglish.

A runner’s story is a reflection not only of stamina on the road, but obstacles and perseverance of the mind. From marathons to mindset, ‘The legend’ believes life is what you make it. Achieving dreams is 100% possible. It’s all dependant on your desire to make them happen. This is on creating phenomenal success for himself. His inspirational words are a result of commitment. Proving to himself and others he’s supported that you can make it happen.

So where did it all start?

Since his school days, the Newcastle United fan often took his runs alone. (Listening to Judas Priest and Slayer for company). Had a brief jaunt with the South Shields Barriers for the social. He then made his way to live in a world of roundabouts, redways and grid systems. Milton Keynes introduced him to the fabulous Redway Runners. Joining to run with others and enjoy the company. Since becoming a member, his confidence and efforts soared as he improved. This was due to taking part in parkrun’s, races and club runs. A fond favourite remains the relays, of which he’s participated in many winning teams. A club full of wonders!

No doubt you’re wondering how the acquired nickname ‘The Legend’ came about? It’s a pretty cool story for the history of the club. The club originals including founder, Martin Lawrence, began training for a marathon. The training runs turned into what is now the Sunday Club run. A new run is born! What a legend and what a fantastic run to create. The nickname is a badge of honour for Tony and some of you will have run with ‘The Legend’. Could he have helped support you to a personal best?

He also set up the Wednesday morning club run around Woburn and Bow Brickhill with Jen Sangster. If you’re an early bird then this one’s for you.

Since parkrun started in 2010, he’s completed an astounding 505 parkrun’s to date. Winning seven and owning a personal best of an impressive 18:22.

Not to mention taking part in 213 different courses as a tourist. Kudos to you my friend, what a great way to see new places and enjoy what they have to offer in the best way you can.

The Great North run (13.1 mile course) has seen those running shoes cross the line an awe-inspiring nine times. We have to add on the 100’s of half marathons embraced and finished. Those are stat’s to be proud of.

Pushing himself further, he ran the Snowdonia marathon. Raising an honourable £1000 for the charity MK Carers. A generous and kind gesture to support those in need and maximising his abilities to do so.

During his time as a Redway Runners member, ‘The Legend’ was a torchbearer in the 2012 Olympics. A perk from his time working with Coca-Cola. Unfortunately, his stint was up in Lincoln, in a town called Legbourne. Many runners, alongside his co-workers and family couldn’t make the trip up north. Alas, all was not lost. On return to Milton Keynes, he used his torch bearing powers for the greater good. It saw a handful of Redway Runners in the NSPCC half marathon complete the race with pride and purpose.

Our club ‘Legend’ overcame a fear he’d being holding onto, thanks to the wonder of the green shirt community. Standing up in front of an audience. He explained his training plan ahead of the first MK marathon. Faced the fear. You see, with community brings opportunity. Opportunity to face our fears. To become a version of ourselves we always believes exists one day in the future, never now. Running freed Tony from his fear of public speaking. He can now help others from a space of freedom and confidence. That’s a fantastic personal win.

Upon sharing his story with us, Tony reflected on the friendships he made and the great races he took part in. His favourite club run is the 7.30pm pace run on a Tuesday night. The next adventure see’s him take on the Turin 10k in Milton Keynes. It’s fair to say he had some fantastic times with the Redway Runners alongside some darker times. He holds love and appreciation for his time with the club and those who understand his story. He chose to share this story to inspire others. Hoping they can see that through determination you can achieve your running goals.

Believe in yourself. Listen to your body. Learn from the better runners but also – those who may not be at your pace or level yet. You can learn from everybody, no matter what his or her ability.

Thank you to Tony AKA ‘The Legend’ for stepping up and sharing. There are so many aspirational takeaways that we can all apply to our own progression. Running is a rollercoaster, but with the support of others, it’s a more enjoyable ride.

Written by Michelle Bella

Do you have a story?

Do you have a story that the club would love to hear about or you feel you’d like to share?

From inspirational stories, to personal achievements, I’m looking for the next Redway Runners exclusive. It’s a great way to share your experience and advice with other club members.

Get in contact via email and I’ll be in touch with the next steps.