Yorkshire Veterans' Athletics Association (YVAA)

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 Reflections on a summer of representing DDRC in the Yorkshire Veterans Athletics Association Grand Prix Race Series. I have never taken part in anything remotely like these races and have enjoyed the experience immensely, which I did not really anticipate when I decided to give it a go. I'm hoping that it might encourage a few more Dynamos to delve in next year. 

First of all, some background information for anyone who is not familiar with these races: There are 10 races, each one organised by a local running club. Each race is 8-10k and involves a significant amount of trail, often quite hilly. Every race has lots of prizes awarded for both genders in lots of age categories. 

To be a Vet you don't necessarily have to work with animals nor have been a member of the armed forces. Perhaps surprisingly you are a Vet if you are 35+ years old. I've been a veteran for 27yrs and never realised! 

Those are the facts, now for what has made it such good fun for me. Firstly, the friendly atmosphere and camaraderie that has built as the races have progressed. There are a wide range of abilities ranging from very seasoned runners to relative newcomers like me, but the courses challenge everyone and there is definitely a " we're all in this together" feel. This is hugely helped by everyone gathering in the clubhouse after the race for prize giving, tea (or beer) and cake etc. After a few races you get to know runners from other clubs whilst discussing how horrendous the race you've just completed was. I am from a team sport background and didn't expect a similar vibe from what I considered to be an individual activity. I have also really enjoyed the format which allows runners to compete in different ways. You can just turn up and complete the course and you still earn points for your club. Obviously the higher your position the more points you earn, but wherever you finish you contribute. You are then also competing against runners in your age category (everyone has their category pinned on their back). This has provided a massive incentive for me during races, especially when I see an M70 runner in front of me! I have to admit I also gain a sense of satisfaction in beating people who are a lot younger than me. Basically if you are a competitive person you can achieve something on a personal level whilst improving the Dynamo's position in the league tables. Of course being involved in races with other members of DDRC is always great, but this is enhanced by the fact that you are genuinely working together competitively as a team, pushing each other on. We are doing pretty well in the standings as a club, but I reckon with greater numbers next year we could compete towards the top of the league. 

I should also mention that there seems to be another competition between the clubs who host the races - that of putting on the best post-race "spread". Stainland have set the standard so far (a full on buffet, including vegan options) and I reckon the food will get better and better, another reason to consider joining in next year. If you like cake and trail running in fantastic scenery, enjoy the challenge of the odd hill or two and like the idea of being part of a dynamos team, then I strongly recommend these races. I'll definitely be signing up again! 

COME ON YOU DYNAMOS. If you have any questions, you will recognise some of the faces in the photos so just ask.