Runner aged 90 sets world best time for 10k in age group

A 90-year-old runner from North Lanarkshire is believed to have set a world best time for a 10k race in his age group.

Ian Winship completed the Cumbernauld 10k run on 13 September in one hour, four minutes and 37 seconds.

Winship, a former paratrooper, said he "stood greetin'" when he found out his time at the end of the race.

He said: "It's just unbelievable. Cumbernauld might be famous now because of me."

Winship, who lives in the town, said he was "delighted" with his time, though a little "wobbly" after the finish line.

Paramedics came and offered him a wheelchair, which the 90-year-old promptly refused.

Winship, who became a steeplejack after leaving the army, said he had a regimen of long walks each day to keep him fit.

He said: "I've got a purpose, I want to stay alive. If I sit in the house I'll vegetate. I must meet people."

The veteran of the Suez Crisis, who jumped into Egypt near Port Said in 1956, said his next challenge will be to "live to 100".

Winship took part in the community event along with his daughter Fiona Fleming and grandson Kyle Fleming.

Fleming explained that it was not the first time the "three generations" of runners had taken part in the race, but the family were nevertheless amazed by the grandfather's achievement.

He said: "He gets up every morning, goes to get his paper, goes to get his coffee. He does 20,000 steps a day. It's incredible."

Fleming said his grandfather has always told his family: "I run because it keeps me sane, keeps me fit and it keeps me out of trouble."

The 26-year-old runner, who placed third in the race, said his grandfather inspired him to take to the track.

He continued: "That's always stuck with me. Every time I see him running, that's what I think about.

"He lost his wife years ago, and I think it just keeps him going."

Scottish Athletics has said Winship's achievement is considered a "world best" in the M90 category rather than a "world record", as non-professional road running events are not recorded with sufficient precision.

While there are no professional organisations which officially ratify runs in the M90 category, there have been no reports of any 90-year-old getting a faster time.

A spokesperson for Scottish Athletics said they were "delighted to hear of Ian's great run".

"Athletics can be for life if that's what you want and performances like this one by Ian at 90 really are inspirational."

Kenneth Duffy, provost of North Lanarkshire, said: "My huge congratulations to Ian on his outstanding achievement at this year's Cumbernauld 10K event.

"What a hero he is! I'm sure everyone will be inspired by his determination, commitment and enthusiasm.

"To complete a 10k at 90 years of age is a remarkable accomplishment, let alone complete it in such an impressive time."

Geraldine Woods, convener of communities at the council, said: "Ian's performance at this year's event, along with his dedication and positive attitude, is an inspiration to people of all ages."