Denis Paine, a determined runner from the Isle of Sheppey, marked his 91st birthday in an inspiring way by completing a 5km seaside parkrun on January 3, 2024. The event took place along the picturesque promenade at The Leas in Minster, showcasing Denis’s resilience, especially after a hip operation the previous year.
Despite the challenges posed by strong winds and bright sunlight, Denis finished the course and celebrated with a box of chocolates provided by the event organizers. He expressed his commitment to running, stating, “I’ll keep running until my legs won’t let me!” His dedication is evident; he has been a familiar face at the free Saturday morning runs since they began in September 2019.
From Cycling to Running
Denis’s journey into running is remarkable, particularly because he only took it up in his 80s. Previously an avid cyclist and motorbike racer, he decided to try running at the age of 83 after watching one of his daughters participate in a parkrun at Sittingbourne. “I used to cycle and motorbike race, but I’d never done any running until I was 83,” he recalled. Beginning with short distances between telegraph poles, he gradually built his stamina before officially signing up for parkrun.
This Saturday’s run was particularly challenging for Denis. “The wind was very strong and the sun was in my eyes,” he admitted, yet he remained undeterred. His commitment to fitness is shared by his family, as two of his three daughters, Karen Green and Angela Cruickshank, along with their brother-in-law, Martin Edwards, joined him in the birthday celebration run.
A Family Tradition and Community Spirit
Karen fondly shared how Denis initially joined the parkrun. “Dad would come to watch me taking part in the Sittingbourne parkrun and one day he said he wanted to have a go. We thought he meant he was going to walk it, but no, he decided to run – and he hasn’t stopped since.” The family has embraced the tradition, with Denis now rarely missing a week. The opening of the parkrun at The Leas was particularly significant for them, as it is conveniently located near their home.
Denis’s background as a daily cyclist is equally inspiring; he used to cycle to work every day, come rain or shine. His daughter noted, “He’s always been a bit bonkers. But he is an inspiration to everyone. They say if Denis can do it, so can we. There are no excuses.” His participation extends beyond parkruns; he has also competed in the annual Island Run.
The parkrun initiative was introduced to Sheppey by Steve Chalke, founder of Oasis Learning, who brought the idea to a community development forum. With the assistance of Kent Sport, the program was successfully launched, supported by the Minster-on-Sea Rotary Club, which covered initial costs.
Run director Tony Potter praised Denis, stating, “He’s been coming since the year dot. It just proves that you can take up running at any age.” The parkrun welcomes participants of all abilities, emphasizing that it’s not solely about running; many choose to walk, bring dogs, or push strollers. “It’s amazing. It’s like a huge family,” added Potter.
Saturday’s event marked Sheppey’s 254th parkrun. Volunteer Paul Murray highlighted Denis’s extraordinary commitment, noting, “Despite a broken hip earlier in 2023, Denis has returned every week for parkrun. He is unbelievable.” Denis explained his recovery journey after sustaining a hip injury in April 2023. “I have a pin in it now. My physiotherapist got me walking, and now I’m back walking and running. I’m gradually improving but it’s taking a long time,” he shared.
Denis continues to strive for improvement, aiming to beat his personal best of 33 minutes and 29 seconds. The parkrun course attracts international participants, with runners from places as diverse as Scotland, Canada, the USA, and South Africa. While participation is free, runners must register in advance and receive a unique barcode that is scanned on the day, ensuring their times are recorded and emailed to them.
Denis Paine’s story is a testament to perseverance and the spirit of community, inspiring others to embrace an active lifestyle regardless of age.
