ARDROSSAN runner Stephanie Symington was bursting with pride after completing the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run with the whole of Glasgow behind her.

The 24-year-old, taking part in the event for the third time, ran the 10k last Sunday in accomplished fashion to raise money for Beatson Cancer Charity and Ayrshire Hospice.

Having lost dad Ian to osteosarcoma in July 2017, this year’s run was the latest of Stephanie’s tenacious fundraising efforts under the banner of Team Symington.

As well as giving further backing to the charities she also represented North Ayrshire in the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run Community Challenge, launched to get Scotland active.

Stephanie found the race more difficult than ever before but, in the celebratory atmosphere on the streets of Glasgow, she thrived.

“This year’s Great Scottish Run was so much fun,” she said.
“Last year was great too but somehow it felt much more tough this time round – I was shocked by that.

“The atmosphere in Glasgow is always amazing. I love that shop owners come into the streets, with strangers cheering you on and clapping you.

“On the start line I always just try and not get too excited. I just don’t want to use all of my energy right at the start.

“I was standing next to a couple of ladies dressed as flamingos on the start line – some of the costumes were great.

“I miss my dad more than anything and every day I am trying to make him proud - he was thankful for these charities too and that is why I keep raising money for them.”

Team Symington will this year once again field teams of fundraisers in the Supernova Run in Falkirk, the Santa Dash and the Ayrshire 10k for good causes.

Stephanie successful completed the “10 week to 10k challenge,” following a tailored training programme in the weeks leading up to the run.

Runners on the day were given access to sugar-based treats, helping them prepare for the run and Dame Kelly Holmes meeting them on the finish line.

Stephanie was grateful for the luxuries and blown away to get the chance to meet the double Olympic champion, encouraging her to take on the challenge again next year.

“Everyone isn’t motivated to run all the time and I can’t be bothered some days but what gets me through the tough ones is knowing I’m doing it for charity,” he said.

“Meeting Kelly Holmes was amazing. She was so lovely and really took her time to chat to people and get photos with everyone.

“I will absolutely go for a fourth race next year.”

Bank of Scotland is celebrating its 10th year as partner of the Great Scottish Run. For more information, visit greatscottishrun.com/community-challenge.