WHILE the wind and rain on Thursday evening made it a night on the couch for most people, over 50 runners from Born To Run Tralee Marathon Club braved the elements to complete their first ever 5k.

Kicking off at Áras an Phobail in Moyderwell, the latest recruits- who joined the club’s “Couch to 5k” programme in January- were presented with medals at the finish line, with the celebrations continuing afterwards with home-baking and a well-earned cup of tea to replace any lost calories.

One proud participant was Sarah Morgan from Ballyard, who was thrilled to complete her first 5k after signing up with the club as a beginner.

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“I have three small children, so I wanted to do something for myself, so I’ve really enjoyed it,” she told TraleeToday, “I’m delighted with tonight.”

For Shane O’Neill from Lee Drive, the “Couch to 5k” programme was a brilliant way to get back to running after a long break.

“I used to do some running five years ago, I’d managed a half marathon and then I had kids and it all fell apart, so I had actually tried myself to get back running last year using the app on my own, but it was no good; the group made such a difference,” said Shane, who hopes to aim for a 10k next.

For Beth Finucane, the programme was also a return to running after 15 years.

“I’ve wanted to start running for a long time, but I’ve got three little ones, so I haven’t had much chance,” she said, explaining that the group’s gentle pace was exactly what she needed.

And while weather conditions made the 5k challenging, she was delighted to complete it.

“I think I pushed myself, but it’s good,” she smiled. “It’s definitely easier to do it as part of a group.”

Speaking with TraleeToday.ie, club chair JJ O’Connell acknowledged that it was a big night for all of the “Couch to 5k” participants and for the club members who mentored them along the way.

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“We can all remember our first 5k and it definitely holds a special place within our hearts and I know a lot of people in the Born To Run club started out this way, being mentored through, getting their 5k, having a night like this, and in return coming back and helping more people,” he said.

“I think that’s the great ethos of the club, that everyone gives a help out and that no-one gets left behind. And we want to appeal to all people to keep coming down to training, keep turning up and keep having the sense of community and camaraderie within the club.”

For further information on Born To Run Tralee Marathon Club, follow on Facebook or visit https://borntorun.ie Scroll down for photos…