Great Western Runners was born out of a group of fit, and less fit, running enthusiasts who frequented (rather frequently)! The Myrtle Tree in Hotwells. The club was founded in July 1984 and affiliated to the Amateur Athletics Association (now UK Athletics) a month later. Based at Kingsdown Sports Centre for 15 years, it grew rapidly in membership.
Over the years the runners participated in three cross-country leagues, several road races and relays. The club also organised races and soon gained a valuable reputation for excellent organisation and worthy races.
Great Western Runners’ Club night base moved to the Bristol Lawn Tennis & Squash Club in Redland in April 1999. The Club feels that this change has been positive and appreciate the welcome they have received. They have continued to attract newcomers to the Club, many of whom appreciate the fact that they can do their leisure running with them without necessarily having to join a formally affiliated club.
The club nights on Wednesday, from 6.30 p.m. with group runs at various paces, and over various distances from four miles upwards, are always attended by squads of over 50 runners; sometimes as many as 70 participate! While running is often seen as a solitary activity, Great Western Runners show that it is also a group activity.
For your own comfort and enjoyment, we would expect you to be able to be able to cover a minimum total distance of 4 miles in 40 minutes i.e. 10 minute mile pace. Newcomers are particularly welcome on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.
Your questions answered!
Where can I find you?
We are based at Bristol Lawn Tennis and Squash Club, Redland Green, Redland, BRISTOL. BS6 7HF, reached via Redland Green Road. This is very close to the Downs.
What training do you do?
Our main training night is Wednesday, where we have group runs of 4, 6, 8 and 10 miles, but we also have other training nights on Mondays and Sundays. During the Summer we make best use of the local Parks and trails in the Forest of Avon, while in Winter we use a variety of well lit routes around the City.
Can I turn up or do I have to join first?
We welcome prospective members to meet and run with us before joining formally. You are welcome to come down and run with us before joining, just turn up and give your name to the GWR club member who will always be around the reception area to welcome and help you.
I am only looking to train for the Virgin London Marathon, how will I find others to train with?
Just ask! Many of those who attend, particularly on Wednesday evenings, are training for the Virgin London Marathon, so distances, and topics of conversation invariably move towards the marathon.
