Short Strides Run Club

Summary of Group:

Short Strides Run Club (SSRC) is a vibrant and inclusive running group based at The Café at Ridgeway in Newport. Founded in August 2024 by Callum and Harriet, it began as a way to make friends through running and quickly became a mission to reshape how people experience the sport — putting fun, social connection, and community first. SSRC welcomes runners of all abilities, paces, and backgrounds, creating a space where everyone feels encouraged to move, connect, and celebrate progress.

We run on Wednesdays at 6pm and Saturdays at 10am. Both sessions are free, 5km, and open to all. The pace is relaxed, and no one is left behind — it’s about enjoyment, not performance.
Community is at the heart of everything we do. We regularly host charity events and fundraising runs, reflecting our ethos: "Short on Strides, Big on Community."

What sets SSRC apart is the atmosphere. From high-energy runs with music and smoke flares to casual pub crawls and post-run coffees (or pints), we believe running should be fun above all else. Whether you're chasing a PB or turning up for the good vibes, SSRC is here to keep you moving, smiling, and coming back for more.

This group is currently operating without a qualified run leader, but are engaged with the training programme and will soon have appropriately qualified volunteers.

TIMETABLE OF REGULAR ACTIVITIES

Day:	Wednesday	Time:	18:00 pm	Level:	Mixed
Location:	Ridgeway Café, NP20 5DE			Cost:	Free
Activity:	SSRC Wednesday			Gender:	Mixed

	The flatter route, but it still packs a punch! The SSRC Wednesday run is a chill 5km route starting at the Ridgeway Café and winding its way to the Ridgeway Pub. Perfect for runners of all abilities—whether you’re easing into the midweek miles or just here for the good vibes and company. Expect upbeat tunes, friendly faces, and a fun, supportive crew cheering you on the whole way. And the best part? You wrap it all up with a pint (or soft drink) at the Ridgeway Pub, celebrating some midweek wins.
Day:	Saturday	Time:	10:00 am	Level:	Mixed
Location:	Ridgeway Café, NP20 5DEV			Cost:	Free
Activity:	SSRC Saturday			Gender:	Mixed

	She’s hilly, but worth it! Our SSRC Saturday run is a slightly more challenging 5km route through the scenic Ridgeway area — perfect for mixed-ability runners who fancy a little extra push. Expect loud music, colourful flares, and a fun, supportive crew to keep you moving all the way up (and down). And the best part? These hills finish with a flat white and a sweet treat at The Ridgeway Café. You’ve earned it.

OTHER REGULAR ACTIVITIES

Beyond our regular runs, SSRC brings people together through a variety of fun and supportive activities. We host pub crawl runs for those who like to mix miles with laughs, organise group hikes to explore the outdoors, and regularly run charity and fundraising events to give back to the community. We also offer support for members training for races — from sharing tips to turning up and cheering each other on — because whatever your goal, you’ll never be doing it alone.

MEET THE TEAM

	Callum Watkins, Run Leader in training
	I am someone who thrives on pushing myself to the limit! When SSRC was founded, I had just ran my first marathon in Newport and was looking for a way to meet likeminded people. Fast-forward and I have just ran back to back marathons and love pushing runners to reach their potential in a postive, respectful (and fun!) environment. I also like complaining about running on TikTok!


	Harriet Baugh, Run Leader in training
	I only started running a couple of years ago - going from barely making it through a 5k to smashing two marathons! Running has genuinely changed my life. It’s not just about the miles; it’s about the people, the laughs, and the post-run chats. I’ve met so many amazing, like-minded friends through running, and I’m so grateful for that. As a Run Club leader, I’m all about making running fun, welcoming, and something everyone can be part of - no matter where you're starting from.

LOCATION