A Scots mum has said running 5k with no clothes on was like “running with her own castanets.”
Inspiring Dawn Roden from West Lothian fell in love with running back in 2018 when she joined a local park run. She progressed from walking the route to routinely finishing with a huge grin on her face.
Now, after completing a lengthy run in the stark naked the 53-year-old has been nominated for Achiever of the Year at the jogScotland Awards.
On receiving her nomination, Dawn said, “I can’t believe it anyone would nominate me, let alone be a finalist. I am lost for words. And that’s not like me!”
JogScotland said it was clear that nothing, not even clothing, could slow down Dawn’s enthusiasm and “joy for life”.
A spokesperson for the organisation added: “Dawn Roden, an inspirational member of the Longridge jogScotland community, is the runner who proves that nothing — not even clothing — can slow down her enthusiasm and joy for life.
“This has been recognised with a nomination for the prestigious Achiever of the Year award at the upcoming jogScotland Awards 2024. The jogScotland Awards celebrate individuals and groups who embody the spirit of the organization, which promotes fitness, wellbeing, and inclusivity through running.”The Achiever of the Year category shines a spotlight on participants who have demonstrated outstanding personal achievement, overcoming obstacles, and showing dedication to their own health and wellbeing.”
Dawn became a motivational member of the Longridge jogScotland group, always “encouraging and smiling” while taking it at her own pace. JogScotland added: “She will admit she isn’t fast describing herself as ‘a plodder’ but she has the determination to just keep going.
“Having done a half marathon this year, she wanted a new challenge and decided to take part in a naked 5km as a sponsorship opportunity to raise money for the group.”
Taking place at an organised event in London in May, Dawn ran 5k naked, apart from trainers. Talking about the event afterwards she said: “Who knew naked bodies running were so noisy? It was like running accompanied by my own castanets.”
Whether she wins the award or not, Dawn has no plans to stop and has signed up for the Glen Ogle 33 Ultra Marathon – though has vowed to keep her clothes on for this one.
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