Our first community mission went swimmingly!

Six really was the magic number for GoodGym Leeds' first ever community mission! 6 runners helped 6 mini mermaids to run a 5k challenge after 6 weeks of training.

We met bright and early at Roundhay Park. We were all ready to dive in, and no one was crabby. Despite a few of us worrying if we were wearing enough layers over our seashell bras, and someone (* cough * Heather * cough *) breaking the most important rule of parkrun (don't forget your barcode!).

Once we were all assembled, each of us Mamma Mermaids were introduced to our Mini Mermaid partner. They were all very bouncy and ready to get their flippers going after spending 6 weeks learning how to ignore the Mini Sirens (negative thoughts), and embrace their inner Mini Mermaids. We didn't flounder about for too long and floated towards the start line ready to take on the 5k challenge!

"I prepared by eating lots of food and putting snacks in my pocket" Mei, an inspirational mini mermaid

Some of the girls took to running like a mermaid to water, and their Mamma Mermaids were struggling to keep up. Katie was paired with a particularly speedy 9 year old, who completed the course in under half an hour, an incredible time for a first ever 5k.

"I need a mini mermaid to pace me at parkrun every week!" Katie, GoodGym Leeds runner

The rest of the mini mermaids and their mamma mermaid helpers made their way round 3 laps of the hilly course by running, walking, skipping, and luckily no swimming. With the encouragement of the GoodGym volunteers, they all went for a sprint finish to end their challenge on a high.

Just as the final mermaid was making their way to the finish line it began to rain, and it really did start to feel like we were under the sea, but we all waited to cheer her and her Mamma Mermaid over the finish line. It was amazing to see them achieve such a magical accomplishment.

Once all the mermaids had collected their medals and certificates, it began to hail. That's when we decided it really wasn't better down where it's wetter and headed to the cafe for celebratory tea and scones.

We all agreed our first community mission was a great success, and can't wait for many more!