Team “Great Bear” take part in Cardiff Race

Joining a field of over 6,000 runners at all different abilities, was our very own team of runners, ready to take on the sights of Cardiff Bay as they completed the Brecon Carreg Cardiff Bay 10km run.

L-R Richard McKeever (Procurement Manager), Jo Jones (Company Accountant), Jo Newell (Product Manager), Pippa Bowkett (Marketing Director)

The cool and overcast conditions would have provided ideal running conditions, if not for the brisk wind whipping across the Severn Estuary – providing a tough challenge for a couple of miles. Despite this, Team GB stormed across the finishing line with times ranging from 48 minutes to 1 hour 16 – a fantastic achievement. The Great Bear running group was set up to encourage all employees to take regular exercise to aid overall health and wellbeing.

For Jo Newell, the Cardiff Bay 10k was her first ever organised run, she says:

Completing her first 10k was a huge achievement for Joanna

“I have to say, I was nervous before the race – this was my first organised run and I didn’t know what to expect. I don’t think the freezing winds helped with my nervous shakes either! Once the race started however, I quickly warmed up and the atmosphere around was energising. The most challenging aspect for me was running up and down the Barrage – the wind was so strong! As I was running into the wind, the added resistance made it really difficult. Once I found my way past the 8km mark though, I started to pick up – with only 2km to go, I knew I could do it! At 9km I came around the bend behind the Millennium Centre to see my family – who had come to support me – and I felt elated. Their cheering gave me the boost I needed to keep up a decent pace for the final stretch. Approaching the finishing line was the most immense feeling! As I was crossing, I had the biggest grin and I didn’t stop smiling for hours afterwards. It was a very proud moment for me that only 10 weeks ago I began running and struggled with 3km – and here I was completing a 10km race! It was an enjoyable experience  –   and I know it won’t be my last”

Congratulations to everyone that took part!