A TORFAEN councillor and regular Pontypool Park Run volunteer has said she is already in training for the “fastest 10k around” – the Mic Morris Memorial race.

Cllr Fiona Cross, who represents the Coed Eva ward, said she was usually the one co-ordinating things from the sidelines at the increasingly popular Pontypool Park events on a Saturday, but called the Mic Morris run, which is predominantly downhill, the ideal opportunity to get her own running shoes on and unleash her competitive streak.

She wasted no time getting into the spirit on the weekend either, as she recorded a personal best of 25 minutes 49 seconds in Saturday’s park run, bagging first lady in her age category to boot.

She said the best part of the Torfaen 10k was that it appealed to all runners, from seasoned competitors to beginners.

“The Mic Morris race is great fun and easily achievable with a little training,” she said. I joined Pont-y-Pwl District Runners over two years ago and they've helped me train and achieve various races including the event in 2012.

“I never imagined I'd run for ten minutes let alone 10k. When I first started I couldn't run a mile but that all changed. I've since lost weight, quit smoking and have an effective stress management procedure.

“Running isn't a race against others but one against yourself. I strongly encourage people to sign up now and start training for the fastest 10k in Torfaen.”

Fellow Pontypool park-runners Samantha Hawksworth and Anita Mackertich-Sellick have also signed up for this year’s event, which the Free Press is sponsoring in a bid to attract 500 runners and make it the biggest one yet.

Ms Hawksworth called it her “favourite 10k”.

“Running has had such an impact on my life,” she said. “I feel fitter and healthier than I have for a long time. The Mic Morris race is a scenic run through Pontypool, and it’s for a great cause. What could be more motivational than that.”

Ms Mackertich-Sellick said: “After completing my first 5k and a few park runs I needed a new goal so I signed up for the Mic Morris run last year, and loved it.

“The icing on the cake was receiving my first ever race t-shirt and medal.”

The 2014 Mic Morris 10k race will be held on July 20 with 53 runners already signed up.

Application forms are available from Cwmbran Stadium and Pontypool Active Living Centre as well as Christine Philpott on 01633 628936

Alternatively email christine.philpott@torfaen.gov.uk

A Facebook page has also been set up – see ‘Mic Morris 10k’

Mic_Morris_10k_Race.pdf">Download the application form here