Paisley runner wants Buddies to sign up for the town’s 10k race

Aug 6 2012 by Gavin McInally, Paisley Daily Express

A TOP Scottish runner has taken a dig at Paisley’s coach potatoes . . . and urged them to pull on their trainers for the town’s annual 10k race.

Distance specialist Gemma Rankin, from Paisley, only took up running three years ago but her athletics career has since gone from strength to strength.

She will be on the starting line for this year’s Paisley 10k event as part of her efforts to raise vital funds for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) Scotland.

And, with people of all abilities able to take part in the fun event, Gemma reckons there’s no excuse for missing out.

She told the Paisley Daily Express: “I would definitely say go for it. Whether you’ll be running, walking or a bit of both, it’s still a great experience and a great day out.

“Take it on as a new challenge and something a bit different. Don’t get caught up in times or the distance itself. It may seem scary at first but it can be done.

“I have no doubt that you will feel a great sense of achievement when you cross that finish line. You’ll be glad you made the decision to take part.”

The Paisley 10k takes place on Sunday, August 26, and there will also be a fun run for those who would like to tackle a shorter distance.

Gemma, who works as a customer services assistant, is hoping the Olympic Games will encourage more Buddies to take part this year.

She has won the 10-mile Scottish Championship for two years in a row and has also been selected to represent Scotland in international competitions.

Her personal best time for the 10k is 35 minutes and 34 seconds and she hopes to improve on her marathon personal best of 2 hours, 43 minutes and 8 seconds in Amsterdam in October.

Running also gives 27-year-old Gemma the chance to raise cash for worthy causes such as BHF Scotland.

She said: “I am lucky enough not to know anyone close to me who has heart disease but I’ve heard that two-thirds of women and 45 per cent of men do not exercise enough and that not being physically active enough can lead to heart disease.

“Heart disease is Scotland’s biggest single killer but we would only have to perform 2.5 hours of moderate intensity exercise per week for this to change and it doesn’t have to be running – it can be anything from cycling, swimming, yoga, zumba classes and circuits to walking or even gardening.

“I think it is extremely important that people are made aware of this and it is vitally important that money is continually raised to not only help people already suffering from heart disease but to support the prevention and diagnosis of future cases.”

To enter the Paisley 10k or fun run and start fundraising for BHF Scotland, contact local fundraising volunteer manager Carole Nicol on 0141 954 8542, send an e-mail to nicolc@bhf.org.uk or visit www.bhf.org.uk/paisley10k