Supporting u3a one step at a time
Clive, Charnwood u3a member, is one of two runners taking part in the London Marathon this April to raise money for the Third Age Trust. He talks about what led to him taking on this challenge.
Learning new skills with u3a
Since I retired last year, I have been an active member of u3a. I have enjoyed meeting others in the monthly talks. These are on a wide variety of topics. I have also joined active groups such a badminton and pickleball, which are sports I never really had time to engage in whilst working, and I am enjoying the challenges of learning new skills from the group organisers and members as well as keeping active and healthy.
Giving something back
u3a means to me a new chapter in my life, which involves embracing new challenges and opening up to new opportunities. Giving something back to the community and service to the local town is important to me. I believe in promoting the values of u3a to anyone who is unfamiliar with the organisation and emphasising the benefits and advantages of making new friends, learning new skills and keeping active in in retirement.
I am running for u3a because I believe in the values of helping older people to network, keep active and prevent isolation and loneliness. As an active member for the last six months, I can see the immense benefits of joining a wide variety of groups and interests. It allows opportunities to pick up new skills and knowledge and create a sense of wellbeing and purpose in later life.
The journey has just begun…
Currently my training plan is just beginning as I embark on building a running schedule which includes 5 runs a week. Typically, I will run 30 miles in a variety of short or long runs and easy or faster runs. I have completed a number of marathons previously and I do not take for granted the enormous challenges each time you train for a marathon of 26 miles and 185 yards.
I have often heard experienced runners claim; the 26 miles is the not difficult. It is the last 185 yards that are painful.
Clive will be running the London Marathon along with Sheryl, whose mother is a member of West Bridgford u3a. You can support Clive and Sheryl with a donation.