Lanzarote Testimonial - Adrian Kerr
What are your sporting interests?
Running.
What made you decide to go on the Serpentine Lanzarote trip?
I wanted to see what it would be like to have a dedicated week to my sport, try other sports and meet new serpies. A bit of winter sun is also an added bonus ☀️????
What were your aims before the trip?
My aim was to be open to explore new sports, get some running benefits and have fun.
Did you fulfil your aims?
Sure did. Every day was great fun and an eye opener into my sport (running). In particular run tech in the early mornings provided a real insight into technique, drills and keeping injury free (touch wood). It was organised as to be very inclusive regardless of ability, we all learnt something new about our running styles and something new. It also cleared the hangover ????
Were you able to train with other Serpies of similar standard?
There is such a good mix of standard and everyone is encouraging and supportive so you feel part of the group you are training with.
Were there a sufficient variety of sessions available to take part in?
There was a good variety which included: Ridge run, one of the best moments was looking out and seeing the shadows of the runners cast over the valley, which is a great way to start and finish the week;
The long run, it was the first time I’d run 20 miles and a great feeling of accomplishment afterwards standing in the pool with an ice cream;
The park mountains run, was spectacular and a great sense of comradeship on the run. Everyone looking out for each other;
The Frank Horwill memorial mile on the last day was special and great fun;
All of the run tech events and solo runs along the coastline;
The cherry on top was the mini tri also on the last day, (we entered as a team and it was the first time on a bike for me in over 20 years) which was well organised, good friendly competition and great fun.
What were the facilities like at Club La Santa?
The facilities were good, I shared with 5 great serpies and we had plenty of space (inside living space and outside courtyards) enough to host a few Serpies for drinks and nibbles (like a mini cheese and wine night ????).
As I said part of my aim was also to explore new sports and this was enabled at Club La Santa; cycling, swimming, paddle board, TRX, gym stuff, windsurfing, pétanque, swings, stretch & relax, the wellness centre and much more. The Club La Santa app was really user friendly and great for booking classes and events.
Would you have any tips for anyone going on the trip for the first time?
Top tip: washing powder as kit has a unique aroma after a day training in the sun. You can either take travel clothes wash with you or they sell it at the shop for use at the laundrette. Or there is a laundry service ????♂️
Don’t worry about meeting people, it’s a really positive and inclusive atmosphere and Serpie group.
Generally I would say, go with an open mind and make it your own. You can do as much or as little as you want (think pic’n’mix). It’s your time and holiday so enjoy every moment, be it training, post training drinks or relaxing by the pool.
Can you sum up your Club La Santa experience in one sentence?
Sun up to sundown and beyond.