TRALEE Born to Run’s hugely popular ‘Couch-to-5k’ programme finally came to a conclusion this week, as its participants completed their 5km graduation runs.

The programme started back in January, however just hours before the participants were set to undertake their final graduation run in March, it had to be called off as the first of Ireland’s lockdown restrictions were announced.

With the lifting of lockdown, the club was able to return to action and training for the couch-to-5k recommenced on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

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Lead mentor Ann O’Shea and her team of volunteer mentors put the participants through their paces using a gradual walk/run strategy which built up the runners’ fitness over the weeks.

The graduation runs held over the last week marked the culmination of the programme. In line with the latest draft of restrictions, they were split up over a number of nights allowing participants complete their final run around Tralee Town Park and cross the line as a fully-fledged runner capable of running 5km at their own pace.

“It’s a great achievement for all involved,” said chairperson of Tralee Born to Run JJ O’Connell.

“Training for the couch-to-5k was very fractured due to the Covid pandemic. We had a great start to the year, great numbers and we kept it going up until March when the restrictions came in and unfortunately we couldn’t have our final graduation night.”

“As soon as we got back, we got the couch-to-5k back up and running again. This is the completion of their hard work and effort and now they can celebrate their achievement. We had them split up into groups to keep in line with the restrictions. Well done to all, this is just the beginning of their journey with the club.” Scroll down for photos…