Athletics: Pair keen to jog memories of the people's marathons

By TERRY MADDAFORD

Kevin Ryan competed in an Olympic and three Commonwealth marathons, finished in the top 10 at Boston, Fukuoka and New York, and had a best time of 2h 11m 43s.

Not the smoothest competitor, Ryan was regarded by those who ran with him as a hard man who pushed himself to, and often beyond, the limit.

Kevin Taylor also sprang to prominence in the 1970s and 80s, walking at three Commonwealth Games and in the 1983 world track and field championships.

He, too, was a tough, never-give-in character.

Their competitive careers behind them, they turned their attentions elsewhere - Ryan moving to Boston and the New Balance shoe company and, later, around the world with Nike and adidas. Taylor set up a print/marketing company and then a desktop printing outfit.

Both have strong coaching backgrounds and, over the winter, promoted a 12-week series of road races at the Owairaka and Manurewa athletics clubs. They now have their sights set on a multi-sports day, including a marathon.

They want to encourage people into or back to running.

"I can remember the highly successful 'people's marathons' in the 70s and 80s," said Ryan, who is back in New Zealand after his last overseas stint, in Indonesia.

"They were about having fun. While there was a competitive edge, most competed for enjoyment. Some carried on and joined a club.

"Since I've been back I have been disappointed at the fall-off in the number of people running and, in particular, the drop-off at clubs.

"The winter series got them out. Some have joined clubs."

Taylor and Ryan have swapped their shoes for wheels and are regulars in veteran cycling events as they continue their planning and promotion for the December 2 Manukau Marathon and sports festival.

As well as the marathon (run or walk), there will be a half-marathon, 10km fun run/walk, a corporate relay, cycle races and a host of other sports at Hayman Park in Manukau City.

"We want people to get out and enjoy themselves," Ryan said.

"While the focus will be on the marathon, there are a host of other events to ensure a good day out."

There was already interest from overseas runners, keen to try what promised to be a fast 5km circuit, he said. The three major half or full marathons in Auckland from late October to early December are expected to attract at least 10,000 people.