Having just celebrated our tenth anniversary
year, we decided to catch up with one of our veteran Just Walkers and find out
what it is about the day that keeps bringing them back.
We
caught up with 67-year-old James Kinsella, who kindly agreed to share his
poignant story that inspired him to take on the Just Walk challenge; one of sheer
determination, a big heart and an unwavering dedication to keeping on top of
his game.
“Just Walk seemed like the perfect fit”
Just Walk (JW). What is it about Just Walk
that first attracted you?
James Kinsella (JK). The main draw for me was
the rural setting; I grew up on a farm in Ireland, which has given me a love
for horses, farms and fields – it all holds a very special place in my life; my
memories. Just Walk seemed like the perfect fit.
J.W. The South Downs certainly does sound befitting;
how much of the beautiful scenery do you like to experience each year?
J.K. Well, I usually walk the 20k. This year [2017] though, I’ll be undertaking
the 30k for the first time – I feel it’s time to push myself a little further
now! Then the year after [2018] I’m going take the 40k challenge to celebrate my
70th birthday.
J.W. We love your enthusiasm James… just how many times
have you taken part?
J.K. So far ten times. I joined the first ever walk in 2006 and haven’t
looked back! This year will be my 11th Just Walk and I’m determined
to keep doing it for as long as I can.“Life is far too short; get out there and engage with the world”
J.K. When I became semi-retired, I started walking to stay fit, healthy and
active, but one of my biggest motivations is my grandson, Riley; he was born
with a cleft palette and had to go through lots of operations at a very young
age. Then, six years ago, he suffered a serious asthma attack and ended up in
intensive care at the Evelina Children’s Hospital in London. The care and
support their staff provided Riley and my family has made me eternally grateful
to them all, so fundraising for their charity is enormously important to me.
I’m
driven to give back to others, particularly my grandson, and that was spurred
on after the death my brother. An avid walker and mountaineer, he climbed
Kilimanjaro in Kenya years ago, but after collapsing, he passed away in a
nearby town. That made me realise life is far too short; you should get out
there and engage with the world.
J.W. Do you go with friends or family each year, or is
it a challenge you prefer to do undertake alone?
J.K. I usually attend the event on my own – I can be a little impatient,
which is why you’ll normally see me amongst the first 2 or 3 people. That said,
it is nice to find someone that matches my pace and rhythm along the way. Last
year I walked a large part of the route with someone else and at the end we crossed
the finish line together.
“Competition isn’t important; charity fundraising is what really keeps me going”
J.W. Impressive! You must keep fit to keep ahead of the
pack – do you use a clear training regime in the lead up to the big day?
J.K. Well, I walk all the time, usually 20 miles a week on average. But
leading up to the event itself I increase my distance every week, up to about
35 miles per week. It keeps my fitness levels in good condition.
J.W. Has your dedication to your fitness improved your
time over your 10 years of doing Just Walk?
J.K. My quickest time doing the 20k is about 3 hours and 20 minutes, though
I don’t do it to get a personal best. I always hope to knock off 5 to 10
minutes from my best time, but competition isn’t important; charity fundraising
is what really keeps me going.
“Training! It’s absolutely essential.”
J.W. Do you have any top tips for anyone who has just
signed up for this year’s event?
J.K. Training! It’s absolutely essential. If possible, start walking around
three months before the event, but certainly as soon as you can. Also, add in
hills to your route – they really do push you, particularly if it’s been
raining.
Also
– quality hiking boots! Mine are around £140. You must look after your feet and
keep them protected to avoid blisters. The right socks, too; good ones to
absorb sweat and give you the right support.
And
take lightweight, quality gear – you don’t want to be too weighed down on a
long walk.
On
the day, begin at a leisurely pace and get a good rhythm going. Most
importantly, enjoy it; the scenery, the wonderful people and all the wonderful
charities being supported. It’s such a positive day!
J.W. Thank you, that’s great advice! Finally, James,
could you share with us one of your best memories from the day?
J.K. A couple spring to mind; I remember seeing a mum who must have been
unwell with her 4 or 5 children, being taken around the course. Seeing them do
it as a family, supporting each other and supporting a wonderful cause - that
was really touching.
The
other has got to be the first time I took part in Just Walk. I am so proud I did
the first one and that I achieved it with so many happy memories. I surprised
myself that I was so capable; I wouldn’t, and haven’t, missed one since.
J.W. Thank you very much for sharing your touching story with us James, it’s
been an absolute pleasure. We look forward to seeing you once again on the 13th
May 2017!
J.K. And thank you too - I look forward to it!
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If
you would like to show your support for James’ 30k walk this May, head over to
his donation page and donate to the Evelina
Children’s Hospital.
For
more information on Just Walk 2017, including training advice, handy tips and
up-to-date event news, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
