A series of four masterclasses in how to train and run better for the 2005 Reebok Bristol Half Marathon has been organised by Bristol City Council in partnership with race sponsors, Reebok and local running clubs.
Steve Cram, one of the world's most successful middle distance athletes, will be paying a visit to Whitchurch as a special guest to take part in the Reebok Masterclass on 20 July.
The sessions - one per month - are part of race preparations to ensure runners, whatever their level, get the most out the 13-mile event, which takes place on Sunday, October 2
Each masterclass will run from 7pm to 9 pm and consist of a panel of experts giving an overview session covering a range of topics, such as: fitness; performance; healthy life styles and race day preparations. A four to five mile run led by an elite runner and running club guides will follow these sessions. The masterclass will end with the chance to ask questions and get expert advice.
Panel experts include: Bud Baldaro, elite coach and UK Athletics marathon coach; Alan Storey, technical director for UK Athletics endurance running, Andy Graffin, former Olympic semi-finalist and Reebok sports consultant, Steve Brace, Olympian and winner of Bristol's first half marathon in 1989. Representatives from Bristol University's Sports Medicine Clinic and retailers, Sweatshop will also attend the masterclasses.
Bristol Half Marathon Reebok Masterclass Training Sessions
Non-club members are welcome to join the master class sessions. Registration will be on the night at the appropriate club from 6pm to 6.30pm. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.
Wednesday 22 June at GWR / Bristol Lawn Tennis Club
7- 7.30pm Overview: ‘Preparing for the Reebok Bristol Half Marathon’
Guests: Bud Baldaro (MC for the session), Alan Storey, Steve Brace, Andy Graffin Sweatshop,University Physiotherapist
7.30 - 8.30 Long Run (4 routes led by a guest & guide)
8.30 – 9 Questions & Answers
Wednesday July 20, hosted by Bristol & West AC at Whitchurch Sports Centre
Special guest: Steve Cram.
Main focus will be 'The next Olympics, elite performance and competition'.
Thursday, August 25, hosted by Bitton Road Runners at Oldland Football Club
Main focus will be 'Physical fitness and healthy life style'.
Monday, September 19, hosted by Westbury Harriers
at the University Sports Ground , Coombe Dingle
Main focus on 'Race day preparations'.
Councillor Simon Cook, executive member for health promotion and leisure said, ‘This is the first time we have organised a series of evening masterclasses. They are a brilliant way for would-be half marathon runners to gain first-class advice and guidance from some of the UK's top athletes and coaches. It is a real coup for Bristol to be able to welcome Steve Cram and our thanks must go to Reebok and to the local clubs for making this happen.’
Andy Graffin of Reebok added, ‘We are delighted to be working with Bristol to develop this series of masterclasses. The Reebok Bristol Half Marathon is one of the UK's leading road races and we want to build on its success to help athletes maximise their running potential and achieve their personal best.’
