A local man uses his running app to commemorate a historic football triumph.
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In a remarkable display of creativity and passion, Stuart Marr, a 41-year-old bus driver from Westhill, has turned his fitness routine into a canvas for celebrating Aberdeen FC’s recent Scottish Cup triumph. Using the popular fitness app Strava, Marr has been crafting intricate designs while running through the parks and pitches of Aberdeen for the past five years.
His latest creation, a sheep holding the Scottish Cup alongside the letters ‘AFC’, commemorates the club’s long-awaited victory, ending a 35-year drought for the prestigious trophy.
Art on the run: A unique way to celebrate
Stuart’s artistic endeavors are not just a one-off; they reflect his deep-rooted passion for the Dons and his commitment to fitness.
He has previously created whimsical designs, including an elf, a guitar-playing Christmas tree, and even Santa stuck in a chimney, all while maintaining his running regimen. This time, however, the stakes were higher as he sought to honor his beloved team’s significant achievement during a 5km run at Hazlehead Park.
A momentous occasion for the city
The excitement surrounding Aberdeen’s victory over Celtic in a thrilling 4-2 penalty shootout has electrified the city. Stuart, who was unable to attend the match, found solace in his run, stating, “I still can’t believe it.” His inspiration was further fueled by the open-top bus parade that took place the following day, where an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 fans filled the streets to celebrate with the players. “There was a great buzz to the city yesterday,” he remarked, capturing the essence of the community’s joy.
Fitness and creativity intertwined
For Marr, running has been a dedicated pursuit for 25 years, and the integration of his fitness app has added a layer of creativity to his workouts. His previous designs have included a kilted figure to mark Scotland’s participation in Euro 2020 and a head with a brain for World Mental Health Day. One of his most notable pieces depicted the Covid virus being jabbed by a vaccination needle, showcasing his ability to blend fitness with current events. As he reflects on his latest tribute, Stuart hopes that the next celebration for the Dons will not take another 35 years to materialize. “I’d like to say a big thank you to the players and the Aberdeen team,” he expressed, with a hopeful glance towards the future.
