Barry Allman

I'm now 50 and started running with a group of friends when I was 43 (so running for 7 years). My very first event was the Liverpool half marathon (with very little training... what a laugh!). My second race was the Manchester marathon... even more fun... (I remember having to stop to use the toilets at a swimming pool - and getting a free Mars bar from the attendant). The idea of doing the Manchester Marathon was in preparation for the London Marathon, which we thought was longer!!! We were very slow (no change there then) but had lots of fun.

I joined my local running club, then in 2001 joined Horwich. Gradually I increased the level of my training and reduced my times. But my favourite session is still my rest day!

Highlight
Winning my very first sporting prize of any description - when I was 1st V45 at the Witton Park Trail Race 2004.

Favourite Race
The Snowdon Marathon just because it is SO hard and SO long........ you've just got to do it - it really hurts! The Lanzarote marathon is good too because they give out Coca-Cola at the feed stations, so even on a bad day it's good.

PBs

3k	11:30	Track
5k	19:48	Hollins Green, 2003
10k	40.12	Trafford 2006
10m	1:09.49	Leyland 2003
½ marathon	1:31:14	Chester 2002
marathon	3:36	Lanzarote 2004

Right now I'm working towards a sub 40 min 10k and a sub 1:30 half... it's only pain.