Every summer, I carve out time during our family holiday in Swanage to squeeze in a few solo runs. It’s become something of a ritual — a way to reset, reflect, and reconnect with the coastline I’ve grown to love.
Table Of Content
But this year, something changed.
This year, I had company.
My oldest son, Eli (aged 9), laced up his trainers and joined me — not once, not twice, but three times.
A First for Both of Us
We started with a 5km run — steady pace, short walk breaks, a chance to explore the smaller Swanage hills together. I thought it might be a one-off. A little father-son outing before he went back to building sandcastles, swmming in the sea or playing games with his cousins.
But then came run number two. Another 5km, a lovely run along the sea front and backl. No complaints, just determination. He kept pace. Asked questions. Told stories. And I realised I wasn’t just out running — I was watching a moment unfold that I’d remember for a long time.
@chasethehare 🌄 Morning miles with the eldest! We hit the hills of Swanage Bay at sunrise — steep climbs, big smiles, and even bigger views. Nothing beats that father-son time with fresh air, early light, and tired legs 🏃♂️👦❤️ #DadLife #MorningRun #SwanageBay #TrailRunning #RunningWithKids #FamilyFitness #ChaseTheHare ♬ original sound - chasethehare
The Big One: Harry’s Rock
And then came the big one — the traditional 10km route I take each year, from the town to Harry’s Rock and back. It’s a mix of trail, coast, and some pretty punchy climbs.
This year, Eli said he wanted to join me. No persuasion needed.
We paced ourselves and pushed through every hill. The reward? Spectacular views, proud high-fives, and the realisation that Eli had just taken on over 120m of elevation gain — and nailed it.
@chasethehare Trail run to Old Harry’s Rock with my number one adventure buddy 🏃♂️🌿⛰️ Views for days, hills for miles, and memories for life ❤️ Nothing beats father-son miles on the Jurassic Coast 💪🌊 #TrailRun #OldHarrysRock #JurassicCoast #DadAndSonGoals #RunningAdventures #SwanageTrails #FamilyMiles #RunWithAView #ChaseTheHare ♬ original sound - Liam Conner
Why It Matters
Running has always been personal for me. It’s where I reset, push myself, think things through. But sharing that space with Eli this summer — seeing it through his eyes, cheering him on, and hearing his footsteps next to mine — gave it a new kind of meaning.
Not just miles, but memories.
And maybe, just maybe, the start of a tradition we can build on.
Have you run with your kids or shared a sport you love with them? I’d love to hear your stories too.
🧡 #FamilyRuns #RunningDad #SwanageMiles #HarrysRockTradition
No Comment! Be the first one.