Charity relay to celebrate Newquay coach’s 20 years of helping runners

A one-mile relay race will raise money for local charities while celebrating a Newquay coach who has spent 20 years helping people of all abilities take up running.

The event will take place at Newquay Sports Centre on Wednesday (16 September) in recognition of Paul Wright’s two decades of leading interval training sessions for Newquay Running Club, formerly Newquay Roadrunners.

Teams of four will each complete four one-mile laps on grass. The event is open to people aged 11 and over, with fancy dress optional.

Registration opens at 5pm, followed by a mass warm-up at 6.15pm and the race at 6.30pm.

Entry is free, but teams are invited to make donations for local charities. Newquay Running Club has said it will match every pound donated.

People attending are also being encouraged to bring tinned or dried food for Newquay Foodbank. Money raised will also support organisations including Cornwall Air Ambulance.

Paul began delivering interval training in 2006.

Interval training combines periods of harder effort with recovery and can help runners improve both their speed and endurance.

Paul said his sessions welcome runners of different abilities.

“What I try to do is make sure, because there are all abilities there, that everybody is welcome,” he said.

“Everyone has respect for everyone else, whether they’re a good runner or a little bit slower. Everyone appreciates everyone else.”

Paul said he felt privileged that the club was recognising his contribution and thanked its committee and everyone involved in organising the event.

Newquay Samba Band will perform, while Newquay Hornets will provide a barbecue and bar.

Paul continues to lead interval sessions at Newquay Sports Centre on Tuesday and Friday mornings.

Press play to listen to Radio Newquay’s interview with Paul Wright...