A NOVICE runner stunned his mates by completing a 10k course...at the age of 70.

Eddie McGuire, from Barrhead, only took up running six months prior to the event in 2009 but, by practising every day and pushing himself to the limit, he managed to complete the remarkable feat.

The 10k run, organised by the Men’s Health Forum, took place in Bellahouston Park, Glasgow, where Eddie whizzed round the course in an impressive time of one hour and 16 minutes.

At the time, the great-grandad told the Barrhead News: “It feels great to have completed the 10k and I am quite proud of myself because I didn’t think I would be able to do it.

“When I first started, it was really hard work but I started off by walking about a mile a day.

“When it got to the running, I just took it bit by bit. It was a gradual process.

“I have met people in the pub who say that now they are retired they don’t want to exercise, they just want to sit about but that’s not for me.

“I’m always doing odd jobs for the family. I can’t sit about the house. That’s why I got into the running.”

Eddie added: “Getting started is the hardest part but, once you are out the house and get going, you will really enjoy it.

“You can start off walking by taking out the kids, grandkids or even the dog to keep you company and just progress gradually.

“I would like to thank my family and the staff at the Arthurlie Inn and at the United Services Club, who have been brilliant in supporting me and backing me with donations.”

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