Hector is on his marks to be youngest at Great Run

Published on Friday 16 April 2010 10:43

THEY say you shouldn't run until you can walk. So little Hector Eccles is sensibly waiting until just after his third birthday before taking part in the Mini Great Edinburgh Run.

The toddler, from the Grange, will be the youngest participant when he starts the race in Holyrood Park, with his parents and big brother Archie, on Sunday 2 May.

He has been training by going to "little kickers" classes and "gym tots" sessions, and is confident he will be able to complete the 1.5km course.

Dad Nigel, who runs the games company Hubdub, said Hector had always been a very active youngster. He began walking at the age of just ten months, and now loves walking, running and swimming.

He was also encouraged by watching his father training for the race. Mr Eccles is running the 10km race in the morning, as well as the Chris Hoy half-marathon this weekend.

He said: "I was doing the race in the morning, and I thought it would be good for Hector to try it in the afternoon. He does really enjoy running around.

"He started walking early – I think having an older brother provided an incentive. And he's always been very active. We've taken him on longer walks, so I'm sure he'll have no problem with the course.

"I'm really proud of the boys. They are very excited about it and can't wait to get started."

He admitted he was surprised to find there was a minimum age of three when signing the family up for the race. Hector will celebrate his third birthday on Monday 26 April, just six days before the race.

Archie, five, a Sciennes Primary School pupil, will also be running the race with mum Lesley.

According to Mr Eccles, Archie's ambition is to be an Olympic athlete, although he has not yet chosen which sport. They are hoping that the boys' grandparents will be at the finishing line to cheer them on.

Lynsey Stephenson, who works for race organisers Nova International, said: "Hector is our youngest competitor this year and we are delighted to welcome him and Archie to the event. It's fantastic to see children of such a young age getting involved as it stands them in excellent stead for future fitness. Who knows, we might see Hector crossing the finishing line first one day."

More than 10,000 runners of all abilities are set to take part in the events, which organisers hope will be the biggest ever. The main Bupa Great Edinburgh Run will start in Holyrood Park, beginning and ending within sight of the palace, and is suitable for runners of all abilities aged over 15.

There is also a 2.5km Junior Edinburgh Run, which is suitable for youngsters aged eight-14.

• www.greatrun.org