MARK BENSON

How did you get into running?

I was a regular at the gym, but as is always the way, the friends I went with started dropping out. I was sat at home one day, scrolling through Facebook when I spotted a MileShyClub post about Couch To 5K but having never ran before I scrolled right past it. Something made me scroll back and the rest is history!

What is your favourite event and why?

My favourite MileShyClub event has to be the Silent Disco! Not much effort and an absolute hoot, if we ever do it again I seriously recommend it. But on a more serious note it would have to be parkrun. It’s just a brilliant event and even more special on one of our graduation days. To see so many new runners achieve their goals is so joyous and so humbling, especially if you've played a part in that journey. It’s just the best feeling!

Top tip for newbies to parkrun: Don't wear earphones, the gossip of strangers is far more entertaining!

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

When I'm not running (which isn't very often) I fill the rest of my time with fishing, family and the pub.