Richard Gahagan

Tell us about your first Freshwalks?

Glossop to Bleaklow, really enjoyed a long walk which had 4 seasons. It was a big group, circa 40 from memory and lots of great new friends made. When I think back of the people I either didn’t know at that point or have got to know much better many are now true friends.

How many have you now attended?

Approximately 10. I would have liked to do more but I was a slow starter, now I have made it a regular bi-monthly affair it is a fixture in the diary I wouldn’t miss.

Why do you come back?

It’s a real mix for me. Conversations about life and business I probably wouldn’t ordinarily have, definitely meeting people I wouldn’t have met otherwise and certainly not in one group. The fresh air and the views and the pub camaraderie are all highlights..

What’s your favourite route?

So far from a view perspective Edale/Mam Tor with the views of the Lake, but they are all good. Longendale is the best from a conversation perspective as it’s long and flat.

The one thing (food or equipment) you always bring?

If this was a tip the obvious would be decent boots (unless your name is Sam Jones), pork pie (if you’re Andy Fleet), but now it’s fresh clothes for the pub…

Favourite Freshwalks memory?

Genuinely too many to give one.

Has Freshwalks created a business success story or opportunity for you or a colleague?

Yes, received, given and referred lots of introductions.

Recommend three great people you have met on Freshwalks?

The obvious is MDP himself. Steve Bottomley, Martin Murphy. (Editor: “Shucks”)

How does Freshwalks challenge typical networking formats?

More quality time, more relaxed new conversations, great views and it’s healthy.

Freshwalks is a combination of exercise, networking, sharing knowledge and thinking time. How do you balance those components?

It happens naturally, very difficult to explain but the community spirit just allows it to happen.

Suggest one new place for us to go.

Monsal Head/Monsal trail/Bakewell area.

Sum up Freshwalks in 3 words.

Friends, headspace, fun.

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