What were you doing on 26 February this year? You may not remember, but here at Lindsays we certainly do.
Saturday 26 February 2022 saw the return of the Lindsays National Cross Country Championships – a red letter day for us. The last time the event took place was back in February 2020 before Covid-19 brought the world to a halt.
Celebrating the return of the National XC Championships with us were around 2,200 athletes from over 100 different clubs. They came from as far away as North Uist and Stornoway to compete at Falkirk’s Callendar Park.
A buzz in the air
The excitement at Falkirk wasn’t just about which clubs and runners were going to win after the 2021 hiatus. Much of it was about community – the gathering of different clubs, volunteers and runners, ranging in age from 12 to 70+.
There was also a sense of elation about the return to cross country itself, with many people telling us about the physical, mental and social benefits they get from club running. These benefits reach far beyond the track (or in this case, mud) into their job, studies and how they plan their life.
Our Chief Operating Officer Ian Beattie MBE, also Chair of UK Athletics, agrees, believing that lessons from the sporting arena translate well into the office: “I genuinely believe that lessons learnt in sport – such as focus, organisation and having short, medium and long-term targets – can be used to create healthier, happier and more efficient workplaces – and vice versa.”
In common with many of those at Falkirk, Ian also believes that the joy and self-belief people get from running can feed into other parts of their life. “Do not underestimate happiness,” he says. “It breeds success.” Yet another reason to celebrate the return of the Lindsays National XC Championships!
Ian Beattie MBE Chief Operating Officer
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