Race for Life 5km

Leading from the start

Last  Saturday, Nordic Walking instructor, Kay Speakman and several Nordic walkers "walked" the 5km (3 mile) course in Old Deer Park, Richmond.  The walk was a fund-raiser for Cancer Research. http://www.raceforlife.org/

Powering round the course

The 5 ladies, stylishly and appropriately attired in comfortable clothes and hats, started just behind the runners and joggers taking part in the event.  Keeping a steady pace, they overtook many who had set off too quickly.

Still holding the formation after 3 kms.

 As well as holding the camera, I also carried the water, as it was a hot day and it was important to stay hydrated.

Keep going! 100 yards to finish

The ladies kept up a cracking pace, finishing in under 46 minutes! That's 4mph pace!

Stretch those legs!

Well done to Kay, Caroline, Paulette, Ann and Gill!

If you want to support the charity, please go here - http://www.raceforlife.org/

Kay's website is here - http://www.pole2pole.uk.com/

If you want to prepare for a charity event, please get in touch.  Nordic Walking with us in Bushy Park has helped people climb Kilimanjaro, traverse the Jordanian desert and walk the Great Wall of China, as well as complete many local events such as this one.  People have been motivated by a desire to raise funds and make a difference.

Nordic Walking is a great way to get, and stay, fit, whatever your motivation.

Peter
07703-404-931

See Bambi when Nordic Walking!

One often-overlooked aspect of exercising outdoors, is the wonderful opportunities to observe nature.  This, in itself, is therapeutic.  Add to that, the all-over exercise of Nordic Walking and you have an ideal exercise regime: invigorating the mind and body at the same time.

 Recently, during walks in Bushy Park, some walkers have caught glimpses of new-season deer fawns.  But the mothers have been wary of letting groups of people with sticks approach.

 However, having walked regularly in Bushy Park, I think I am learning how to observe deer closely without causing them concern.  In other words, by approaching the herd carefully, or simply by sitting in their path for a while, the deer will walk by without  fear.

These photos show that you can get relatively close to wild animals, if you know a bit about their behaviour and habits.

Animals would not be as relaxed as this if they thought the photographer was a threat.

If you want to see similar sights and improve your fitness, please get in touch.  Nordic Walks take place most days of the week, and twice on Saturdays!

I look forward to hearing from you,

Peter

07703-404-931

Summer evening Nordic Walking

This week has seen RAIN in the area for the first time since February.  A tennis tournament at Wimbledon must be starting soon!

Velvet antlers

The good news for Nordic Walkers has been that the rain came in short bursts and we were still able to enjoy the lovely summer evenings in Bushy Park, without getting wet.

Some unco-operative swans at Diana fountain

The Thursday evening walks are delightful, as the park is quiet and peaceful.  Some of the sights demand that we break off from our exercise and just enjoy the moment!

Glowing Nordic Walkers

If  you would like to join us on Thursday evening (or another day.  We walk most days), please contact myself or colleague, Kay Speakman - http://www.pole2pole.uk.com/

Egyptian goslings at Osterley Park.

We have also visited and walked round Osterley Park, a National Trust property in West London.  Well worth a visit.

Deformed antler, taken in March

Back in Bushy Park, I've noticed a red deer stag with a deformity to its antlers.  The unusual growth may have been caused by damage to the antler as it was starting to grow.

Deformed antler this week

However, the antlers have continued to grow vigorously, albeit asymmetrically, as can be seen from the above photo. It remains to be seen if the antlers prove a hindrance in the rut, or whether the females are attracted to the different style of antlers...

Talking of the rut, baby deer are now being seen around the park. More photos of them next time, but here is a preview -

Red deer fawn

Nordic Walking is one of the best exercises around.  Not only do you get a workout for the whole body, you also get the benefit of the outdoors - fresh air, nature, greenery and conversation!

If you want to enjoy these benefits with us, please  call or email,

Peter

07703-404-931