Stirling athletes and staff join rugby star Finn to launch family run

University of Stirling students and staff teamed up with Scotland rugby star Finn Russell at his old school this past week to help launch two new running events taking place in the heart of Scotland.

The 24-year-old fly-half was back on his old stomping ground at Bridge of Allan Primary School to launch the brand new The Thistles Great Stirling Family Run (20 May) and Great Stirling 5K (21 May) where he was joined by pupils and members of the local community, including representatives from the University’s men’s and women’s rugby clubs and sports participation team.

Both events will form part of a weekend of running in central Scotland alongside the inaugural Stirling Scottish Marathon.

The University’s scenic campus will be heavily involved throughout the weekend as it will host The Thistles Great Stirling Family Run on Saturday 20 May before forming part of the marathon course the following day.

Commenting at the launch, Finn said: “I’m delighted to return to my old primary school to help launch the Great Stirling 5k and The Thistles Great Stirling Family Run.

“It’s really important that kids are active from a young age, and this kind of event will help promote a healthy lifestyle.

“It is also pleasing to see Stirling host such a large event, with thousands of people taking part across the weekend it will really put the city on the map."

Cathy Gallagher, Director of Sport at the University of Stirling, said: “The University of Stirling is delighted to be involved in the inaugural Scottish Stirling Marathon and we look forward to cheering the marathon runners through our stunning campus on Sunday 21 May.

“Before that however, the opportunity for families and 5k runners to get involved on Saturday 20 May will be a fitting start to a fantastic weekend of activity in the city and I would encourage everyone to join in.”

The weekend of events, organised by The Great Run Company, is fully supported by Stirling Council.

The Thistles Great Stirling Family Run is open to children aged 3-13 years old. For the older children (9-13 years old) a dedicated wave will be available at the start. Children in the older category will not be allowed to have an accompanying adult with them.

After the event all children will be presented with a special medal, bottle of water and a snack to celebrate their achievement.

For more information, visit greatrun.org/stirling