It sounds like a big task but starting from total beginners to completing a 3 mile race in just 3 months is exactly what has been acheived by 5 members of a Jog Derbyshire group. Deirdre Westwood, Sarah Mawer, Catherine Weeks, Dawn Drury and Jenny Taylor embarked on this journey under the expert guidance of Jog Leaders Helen and Luke at the Rutland Sports Park and Sandiacre Friesland groups.

Over the 3 month period, through sheer determination, hard work, lots of fun and with the gentle guidance of Helen and Luke, the ladies experienced improvements in their fitness, general health, stamina and most of all, a change in body shape!

On the 27th of October 2009, the ladies set out on their first ever competitive race. The ladies had entered the Race for Heroes at Locko Park. Unforntuately, Jenny had sustained an injury and could not run, but she attended the event to support the rest of the team.

Over 200 walkers and runners set out on the 3 mile cross country course in beautiful sunshine. A fantastic atmosphere helped all the competitors on this challenging event supported all the way by Jog Leaders Helen and Luke who attended to cheer on the team. All the ladies completed the distance in impressive times of between 33 and 37 minutes.

After the event, Jog Leader Helen Smithurst said "Having seen them through their weeks of fun and fitness, it was a proud moment to see them all cross the finish line and reach their goal."

So what's next?.....The ladies and other members of the Jog groups at Rutland Sports Park, Ilkeston and Sandiacre Friesland Leisure Centre will be training for the Derby 10k in April. If you live in the area and would like to join the groups or find out more, please contact either Helen or Luke on 0115 9302033 for Rutland Sports Park or 0115 9490400 for Sandiacre. All groups are on Tuesdays and there are groups for all levels of ability from total beginner to advanced.