It was only a matter of time before my VIP status within the running community was recognised and rewarded. The reward for being a running VIP it seems is free drinks and food – I’m all kinds of down with that. Who isn’t? If you’d like to become a fabulous running VIP like me, here’s how you do it…

1) Run. Goes without saying really. We’re not talking breaking records or anything – that sounds far too much hard work. And judging by the shape and number of people in the VIP section last night, you don’t even have to run that far or that often. But run a bit so you can say with conviction “Yeah, I run.”

2) Give something back. Last night I’d gone to cheer a friend in the Great City Race, a 5K through London. I’d decided not to take part because my training plan called for 7 miles. But it being close to my office and for lack of better plans (oh yeah and being a great friend) I went to cheer him on. That’s true altruism. And karma loves a giver, so go and clap someone.

3) Look the part. If you’re going to go to the post-race VIP hospitality event for a race that you haven’t taken part in, it helps if you look like you have. I’d run 7 miles before my spectating duties commenced so was smelling and looking like a runner. However, don’t say things like “5K? I’ve run double that just to get here.” You need to reign that in – you’re important now. You have nothing to prove. Now help yourself to the free drinks.

4) Have important friends. I’d caught up with my friend at the finish and his team were being given their VIP hospitality wristbands. Handily they had one for me too. They were apparently properly ‘important’. But they were happy to take me along for the ride – canapes and all.

Stick with me, we’re going VIP!