Council Leader and staff are put through his paces ahead of Paisley 10K

Council Leader and staff are put through his paces ahead of Paisley 10K

Renfrewshire Council Leader Derek Mackay was put through his paces in a gruelling exercise bootcamp session as part of his training for this year’s Paisley 10K.

Councillor Mackay was joined by council employees Philippa Simms and Jamie Gardyne to have their fitness tested by Renfrewshire Leisure’s tough bootcamp instructors Neil Hutchison and Gordon Law.

The trio were made to run and sprint round the playing fields at Ralston Community Sports Centre before more sprinting with weights, boxing, and sit ups.

Councillor Mackay said: “I have done the 10K for the last few years in a row so I like to think I’m quite physically fit but these guys do not mess around. They literally scream in your face and really push you to work harder but it’s all good for your training. I really enjoyed it and actually wanted to keep going when it finished.

“It’s given me an extra push to start gearing up for the 10K in August. Last year I was happy with time my but this year I’m planning to beat that….now all I’ll need to do is imagine Neil and Gordon are shouting at me again!”

The Paisley 10K and fun run takes place on Sunday 29 August kicking off in County Square. The event, one of the flattest, fastest and easiest courses on the 10K circuit, is aiming to be the biggest in its 11-year history.

Philippa, Business Development Executive with Renfrewshire Council, said: “Last year’s race was my first ever 10k and this year my target is to improve my time. I run regularly with Jogging Buddies, which is really sociable and a a great way to keep motivated, especially when you’re a beginner. Running is a really good way to keep active and signing up for a race like the 10K gives you something to work towards. I really enjoyed the bootcamp although it did make me think I need to get fitter!”

This year registration has been opened up to allow groups to register together and the Fun Run will see even more colourfully costumed runners take to the streets.
Councillor Mackay added: “The 10K is one of Paisley’s most popular events and this year we’re hoping it will be bigger than ever. Being able to register as a group means you can sign up with your work colleagues, friends or family or if you’re part of a club you can sign up with your teammates.

Councillor Mackay added: “The council is committed to giving people of all ages and abilities opportunities to lead a healthy active lifestyle and the 10K, along with the huge range of activities and new facilities available, is a great example of that.”

The exercise bootcamps are one of a great range of activities on offer by Renfrewshire Leisure, one of the 10k sponsors, this summer to help runners get fit for the 10K.

To sign up for the Paisley 10K or fun run log on to www.paisley10k.com.

To find out more information on services offered by Renfrewshire Leisure log on to www.renfrewshireleisure.com.