THIS summer will see the first running of the Riverside Runners 10k charity race in St Neots.

Not only will the event mark the 25th anniversary of the Riverside Runners, but it was also raise money for The Hunts Post’s New Life Appeal, which raises money for the special care baby unit at Hinchingbrooke Hospital in Huntingdon.

The race, which takes place on Sunday, August 19, is open to everyone – no matter what your ability.

Here, in the first of our series of blogs, we will follow the progress of three women and now one man – all workers at Mick George, one of the sponsors of the event, as they prepare for the 10k.

INFORMATION: To enter the event, which is also sponsored by Circle Health and TriSportPlus, go online www.runnersworld.co.uk/events and search for events on August 19.

Meet the Mick George four.

There’s Victoria George, who is 24-years-old and is a sales account manager. Then there’s Julie Heading, a contracts administrator, who is 23, and Jolene Vinn – aged 29 (but 30 in a few weeks!) – who is a PA to Mick George himself, the company managing director. Joining them (maybe reluctantly) is Peter Kennelly, sales manager, age 34, who describes himself as the most unfit male at Mick George Ltd.

All four will be running the 10k in August and all three are sharing their pain, frustration and joy with Hunts Post readers as the event draws nearer.

Jolene’s Blog:

A FRIEND is training as a sports massage therapist and needed to practice so I couldn’t refuse when she offered to give me a free massage. Although it wasn’t quite as relaxing as an ordinary massage, I certainly felt the benefit when I went to the gym the next day. I actually managed several good sessions in the gym this week.

On Saturday morning I worked out for an hour and half and even ran back from the gym to my house. It felt great to be back out in the fresh air, especially as the sun was shining.

Fingers crossed for more sun this week, I really need to get outside.

Julie’s Blog:

The sun enticed me out this week ... but not in my running gear.

Not once have I managed to do any training and I’m sure I’ll notice the difference next week.

I’m afraid all the barbecues and beer gardens have led me astray this week as my friends and I make the most of this beautiful weather!

However, I have been doing a lot of horse riding in this great weather, out on hacks etc, so I’m hoping the gentle exercise has counted towards something and I haven’t set my self too far back. Guess I just need to get back in my trainers this week and find out!

I’ll let you know how I get on!

Victoria’s Blog:

Training is still consistent, however, I have reached a block at 6 km. I cannot seem to go any further so I have to slow down to a walk. I am also struggling with the recent hot, hot, hot weather. I really hope that its cool on the day otherwise I can see myself collapsing half way through!

Gym every night this week, I’m going to give it one final push and make sure that I have done all I can to prepare!

Pete’s Blog:

Had an early meeting in central London this week and when I arrived at Brent Cross tube station the car park was full. Undaunted, I found the next nearest car park which was about half a mile away, so an impromptu lengthy walk in shirt and tie ensued (there and back!).

Other than that, not managed as much as I had hoped. I watched the 2007 film Run Fatboy Run for some inspiration and my take on that is this: If Simon Pegg can run the marathon with just two weeks training so can I.

Don’t do today what you can put off until tomorrow!