Sporting OAP Bob is up for top award
A Perth pensioner has been nominated for a top award for his sporting efforts.
Bob Strathie (72), who runs with FIT Together in Scone, only took up jogging in February at the age of 71.
However, he has come on leaps and bounds and has now been shortlisted for achiever of the year at the annual jogscotland awards.
Bob joined FIT Together’s beginner jogging group, having never been a runner before, although he had always been a keen walker.
He was keen to join the group and see what he was able to do, and he quickly rose to the challenge.
By May, Bob had taken on his first parkrun, and managed to complete the five kilometre course in just over 34 minutes - although he added he was too busy blethering to get an official time.
Since then, he has undertaken a range of challenges with FIT Together, including hill reps, fartleks and others. He has managed to get his parkrun personal best time down to 28 minutes 43 seconds.
Jo Stevens, jogscotland development officer, said: “We received so many nominations for this year’s jogscotland awards, but Bob’s was one of those which really stood out.
“Our whole ethos is to let people know that getting active is for everyone, no matter what your age, size, shape or ability.
“So for Bob to give running a try for the first time at the age of 71 - and take to it so well - makes him a brilliant example for anyone who thinks it might be too late to start running.
“We’re really looking forward to celebrating his achievements with all the other shortlisted nominees at our awards in Glasgow on November 23.”
Bob will need to see off competition from Lizzie King of Inverness jogscotland and Michael Mullan from Ready, Steady, Go Pitreavie to win the achiever of the year award. The jogscotland awards will be presented by guest of honour Paula Radcliffe.