My running began back in 2002/3 and to start with everything was going well. My first run was the Underwood Run and I instantly fell in love with the sport. Seeing as it was my first run, it became very special to me too and a few years later I was able to come home in first place. Since then, I have been fortunate enough to win a few races. Such as the Awsworth 5k, Double or Quits and Bramcote, among them.
I started my running journey with Heanor RC and later moved to Mansfield Harriers. There too I have had relative success. Winning the round Norfolk relays with my team mates and setting the course record on my leg (since been beaten) and in 2014 was part of the Mansfield Masters side which won the national relays.
However, since 2008 my love for running as been continuously blighted by injury. Just managing five 10ks in this time and this is what got me into coaching. I wanted to stay involved with runners, friends and the sport. So I booked on to firstly, the LIRF course then taking it further, by doing the CIRF and various one day/weekend courses. I've been very well supported on my journey with the likes of Pat Carlin (chairman, Mansfield), Richard Massey (head coach, Mansfield) and Dave Lisgo ( Mansfield/ Coach Notts Uni) all offering advice and help, if and when required.
With the injuries I started to bike and swim if I could. To allow me to train and get involved with Broxtowe Triathlon Club as it developed from an idea, to an affiliated club. This too got me interested in becoming a triathlon coach. Where I work as given me the opportunity to watch and talk to a few of the GBR coaches and I truly find this invaluable and learn so much. Again, this is something I love and like running, wish to gain more experience at.
It has been a great journey so far and to see the runners improve and more importantly enjoy what they do, gives you a great sense of satisfaction. I have learnt so much but still have so much more to learn. It is such a pleasure to be a small part of your running life and one I am eternally grateful, for you to allow me to be part of. Hopefully, we can continue to learn, grow, improve and enjoy, for many more years to come.
Hey there! I'm Darren and have just started my coaching journey with BERC's
I first started running in 2015 when I was approached by my good friends,to run the Robin Hood half marathon. It was in aid of there daughter who at the time was unwell and going through cancer treatment. I'd never ran before and nervously agreed to take part and raise as much money as I possibly could, to help them in their fight, against this terrible disease. So I started to train myself and after around six weeks, I was totally hooked. I loved running and have done ever since.
To date I have run numerous races, all of varying distances. On road, trails, country and fells. From 10k - 40- mile ultra-marathons. I hope to finish my 100 mile ultra next year. Obviously, enjoying fells, I do love running in the lake District and Peaks too.
For almost five years now I have been a qualified Leader in Running Fitness and have been part of a phenomenally successful local jog club, called Ilkeston Joggers. This was something I never even thought about doing but now thoroughly enjoy and it's become a massive part of my life. It as just kept on growing and on our best week we had 100+ runners attend and in 2020 we received the project initiative award from Erewash borough. The rest of the team and I were so proud and still really enjoy it.
I feel that moving up to coaching is the next chapter in my running story and look forward to learning and progressing with BERC.
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