12 Months of Running – October

We hate to admit it but there is a distinct change in the weather and the evenings are getting shorter. For some this means hibernating for the winter and retiring the running shoes. Not for us, its all the more reason to sign up to an event to keep us motivated.

Dublin Simon Fun Run

Kicking off October with a great event in the Phoenix Park, is The Simon Community Fun run  5miles or 8km (approx). A great run for anyone considering moving up from the 5k distance. The run starts on Chesterfield Avenue and heads around the back of the park before finishing on an uphill along the Kyber pass. But the hill is worth it. They have a great finish line with food stalls giving out samples and a great goody bag and medal.

Dublin City Marathon

We certainly don’t suggest signing up to this race in October as the training takes a little longer than the time you have left. For the first year ever the Dublin City Marathon has sold out which means it is going to be an even better event than ever. For most the training started much earlier in the summer and their long runs, recovery strategies and nutrition has taken over their life this summer. Completing a marathon is a wonderful goal to work towards and this month all the hard work will come to fruition.
It’s a long and winding road starting at Fitzwilliam Square,  heading across the River Liffey, up into the Phoenix park, through Castleknock and back to the park again before crossing back over the river through the south side of the city and finally finishing up at Merrion square.  It is certainly a great event to spectate and support. If you are free on the Sunday of the bank holiday, find a good spot along the route to cheer on all the runners. There is a fabulous atmosphere all along the route which culminates at the finish line.

You have not met better supporters than the Forget the Gym gang. Here are a few shots from  showing the true spirit of the Running Chicks & Chick Magnets over the years at Dublin Marathon. We will be out again cheering on our runners this October.