John Gough, Director of Wolves “Jogged on the Tyne” in the Great North Run on Sunday 18th September in a respectable 2hrs 42mins in aid of the St Thomas Lupus Trust.
What is so remarkable about John is that he could not run anywhere up until 6 months ago.
Training with Richard
Back in December 2010, 62 year old John Gough said that he wanted to do something special next year. So he decided to speak to Richard Taylor his personal trainer. He said would like to take part in the Great North Run along with his fellow Wolves Directors all in aid of charity. There was only one problem the last time John did any running was at school over 40 years ago.
So when he asked Richard his thoughts on the matter and whether he should even contemplate it, Richard said "No." John asked "Is it because, I'm not fit enough, or is it my age." Richard replied "No, it's because you need to be disciplined, 100% focused. 13 miles is a long way. But, if you are serious, let's put you to the test." John's hectic schedule and social diary would be challenged. "If you can go without a drink for one month, then, and only then, will I train you." John proved that he could do it, and so began his training in March.
From learning how to run a mile and then roll on 6 months of intensive training with Richard, 2 ½ stones lighter, John has achieved the unthinkable. “At age 62, if I do this it will be the greatest sporting achievement of my life”.
John finally took part in the Great North Run.
He Did It!
Back in December 2010, 62 year old John Gough said that he wanted to do something special next year. So he decided to speak to Richard Taylor his personal trainer. He said would like to take part in the Great North Run along with his fellow Wolves Directors all in aid of charity. There was only one problem the last time John did any running was at school over 40 years ago.
So when he asked Richard his thoughts on the matter and whether he should even contemplate it, Richard said "No." John asked "Is it because, I'm not fit enough, or is it my age." Richard replied "No, it's because you need to be disciplined, 100% focused. 13 miles is a long way. But, if you are serious, let's put you to the test." John's hectic schedule and social diary would be challenged. "If you can go without a drink for one month, then, and only then, will I train you." John proved that he could do it, and so began his training in March.
From learning how to run a mile and then roll on 6 months of intensive training with Richard, 2 ½ stones lighter, John has achieved the unthinkable. “At age 62, if I do this it will be the greatest sporting achievement of my life”.
John finally took part in the Great North Run.
He Did It!
John with Emma (Sports Therapist) and Richard
Not only that, what John was unaware of was that 8 weeks prior, his wife asked Richard to help her learn to run in the hope of joining her husband one day. Amazingly, Helen also a non-runner lost 2 stone and surprised her husband by joining him in the Great North Run. It became a family affair when Tom their son replaced Steve Morgan due to an injury. "I was truly proud of them." said Richard. John said it was a great experience, and one that he will never forget. Well done!
