Stride out with the Lakenheath Longstriders

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Eric Donner
  • 48 FW Public Affairs
As the New Year heads into its second month many individuals may find their New Year's fitness resolutions coming to an agonizing halt. The Lakenheath Longstriders, a local running group, can help individuals continue with their fitness goals.

According to Dee Steel, Longstrider member, running with a group helps keep all members focused on their goals.

"Running with a group encourages camaraderie and especially the motivation to get up and go, even in the rain or cold. The miles seem to melt away as you and your friends talk, solving the world's problems or venting over everyday stresses of life," Mrs. Steel said.

The Longstriders club is open from novice runners to advanced runners, and some events are open to families.

"The best thing about our running group is that everyone truly can run at their own level. We try to pick races that accommodate different distances. There are no rules. We have people join us on trips who just want to cheer us on," added Mrs. Steel.

The Liberty Wing running group not only promotes fitness, but also gives members the opportunity to travel.

Recently, the Longstriders traveled to Lake Balaton, Hungary. The runners completed a half marathon, 13.1 miles, on their own or as a two-person relay team.

The ladies of the Longstriders are training for their next event, a marathon in May in Keswick, England. According to Mrs. Steel, it is renowned as England's most scenic road race. Near woodland lakes, there are also 1.5 km and 3.2 km fun runs to accommodate those who want to make it a family event.

In the past, the Longstriders have also traveled to the Black Forest, in Germany and Nice, France.

For more information on the Liberty Longstriders, e-mail longstriders@ btinternet.com.