Super-fit running grandad has competed every week for 53 years

Keith Redpath, from Wishaw, was inspired by runners he saw training in his local park when he was just a 10-year-old boy.

From that point, the 63-year-old athletics coach and engineer, was hooked and has been running in competitions across Scotland ever since.

This year he is currently undergoing intensive training, including weekly 5k runs and morning time trials ahead of the City of Edinburgh Running Festival (CERF).

The event, which takes place on July 1 at Meggetland Sports Complex in Edinburgh, will see Keith run in the mile event, which he has competed in since the festival began four years ago.

The grandfather-of-one said: “I have raced every week since I was ten years old and absolutely love it. I have ran 200m, 400m, 800m and 1600m in the past, pretty much all distances.

“In terms of my training regime, I’m not particularly strict on my diet, everything in moderation. As a coach however I stick to very intense and focused training. At my age you need to be strict on how you train and not spend hours running miles and miles.

“I’m currently stepping up my training ahead of the City of Edinburgh Running Festival which can get quite competitive. It’s one of my favourite races though as it’s very well organised.

Keith Redpath has competed in races for 53 years.

“You know exactly what time you will be racing which is quite unique in the racing world. I’ve ran the festival since it started four years ago, and can’t wait to get down on the track in a couple of weeks.

“Unfortunately I’ve not won in my heat yet, but hopefully this year is my turn.”

After his race at CERF, Keith is hoping to join his two children, a son and daughter, and grand-daughter later this year by moving to Australia.

Keith said: “I plan to emigrate to Australia to be with my family, so although my training is still pretty intense, I plan to start winding down shortly after CERF.

“Fingers crossed I can go out on a high but we’ll just have to see how I get on in a couple of weeks.”

CERF is Scotland’s newest running event and offers some of the highest prize money available in the UK.

Competitors wishing to take part in the 2016 CERF have until 19th of June 2016 to register at www.entrycentral.com