Name: Ian Stevens

Joined Redway Runners: 5 January 2013

We go on the run with our members and we find out a bit more about them – which we thought would be great to share, this time it is with Ian Stevens who is leaving us shortly as he is on the move but hopefully the green tee will be out running in pastures new and maybe back in Milton Keynes for visits

Thanks Ian

19 January 2017

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CLUB

• When did you start running and when did you join Redway Runners?

My daughter dragged me to parkrun in October 2012. I then ran with Pagnell Pacers for nine months. I decided to join RR as I’d heard they did different sessions and entered events.

Being part of Redway Runners has been one of the best things I’ve ever done. Group running is primitive, hunter-gatherer stuff and makes me feel alive: running in the fresh air, enjoying the different seasons. We are lucky to have this beautiful environment all around us in MK. In RR there are so many different people. In conversation with others, I know that for some of us it’s been life-changing. We all face challenges in our lives and the club is a sanctuary – as it has been for me – so I have great empathy and respect, especially for those having a hard time.

• Tell us about your first time? (with Redway Runners)

It was a Monday night social. I was nervous but Martin introduced me to a couple of people and I felt on top of the world.

• When and who do you run with in the club?

Monday social, Wednesday morning, Thursday social and Sunday. There are so many people I run with – too many to name. Just love the company and the banter.

YOU

• Tell us your history of running?

At 17 I ran 4.39 for a mile at school – my quickest. After that it was all downhill!

• What is your running ambition?

I hope my times just get slower, more slowly.

• Why do you run?

To maintain my mental health and enjoy the company of others.

• What would you do if you were not running?

Restoring a TVR V8s, or a Gilbern Invader.

• Who have you see while running?

Thomas Plant (Bargain Hunt); and Mike Bushell. Both at Blenheim 10K in different years.

• Favourite place to run?

Martin’s Sunday run from Newport out through Lakes Lane.

• What do you love to see while running?

Herons – and children out running with their mums and dads.

• Funniest running moment?

Sunday run last year, a vicar kindly braked to let us cross a road, not realising how many we were. As we crossed, Len Vaughan casually remarked to him: “Busy day?” I thought it was hilarious.

• What is your favourite running track and film?

Forrest Gump.

• Favourite running photo

This was at Marston Forest 5k – my first competitive race in 2013

 

• Who would be on your wish list to run with?

Eddie Izzard, Dame Kelly Holmes, Dave Brubeck Jnr.

• What do you think about when you run?

Herons and fast cars.

• What type of running do you prefer and why?

Fields and woodland.

• Love or hate loop backs?

Love a loopback.

RACE/EVENTS

• Favourite race distance and why?

I’m happy with the half. It doesn’t dominate your life beforehand but is a real achievement.

• If you could choose anywhere in the world to run, where would it be?

New England.

 

Photo below is from Blenheim 10k in 2014