Scotland the Nation that Runs - With Jogscotland

8 JUN2009

Jogscotland has reached a milestone by now being available to Scots nationwide. With Orkney coming on board recently, jogscotland now has trained Jog Leaders and jogging groups in all 32 local authorities in Scotland.

Jogscotland was started in 2002 by scottishathletics - with support from NHS Health Scotland, sportscotland and the Scottish Government's Healthy Living Campaign. jogscotland is a truly unique healthy living initiative that is leading the world when it comes to jogging. It has helped over 19,000 Scots improve their lifestyle through structured walking, jogging and running programmes tailored at all levels of ability from complete beginner up to people who will be training for organised races, 10ks, and 1/2 marathons.

To help the objective of getting Scotland known as a nation that runs, jogscotland in partnership with The Co-operative, have a nationwide series of 5k fun runs held through out June. Unique in the fact that they are run mid-week in the summer evenings, to avoid clashing with other running events, the 5k challenges visit five scenic locations throughout Scotland and focus largely on having fun rather than getting the fastest time. It is irrelevant as to whether participants walk, jog or run the 5k route, the aim is to get the local community out in the fresh air using their region's facilities and enjoying the benefits of physical exercise. Even the children are included in the fun with junior runs being held before the adult event.

Scottish comedian and radio presenter, Fred MacAulay will be running in the Glasgow 5k on behalf of Diabetes UK. Nine years ago, Fred's son Jack was diagnosed with diabetes, and Fred regularly runs on behalf of Diabetes UK to help raise the awareness for the condition. Fred says: "Like every parent I'm hoping that something can be done to help all children with Type 1 Diabetes, either to stop them from developing it in the first place, or to find a cure which means that there isn't a worry about their daily well being or the long term effect of poor blood sugar supply to their vital organs. By running in The Co-operative jogscotland 5k I hope to raise awareness of the illness."

The 5k series will be visiting Aberdeenshire, Inverness, Borders, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Alistair Currie, Manager of jogscotland said: "jogscotland works hard to develop opportunities for everyone to be active, irrespective of age or ability. The 5k series offer people the chance to get out within their local community and enjoy the summer evening, while increasing their daily level of activity."

"With entertainment, prizes, exclusive event t-shirt, medals and goody bags plus the welcoming and friendly jogscotland atmosphere, the Co-operative jogscotland 5k challenges are not to be missed."