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Paula Jones, Leader |
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| I am originally from Brighton but have lived in North Wales for 7 years. I didn’t start running until I was 50 after watching the Brighton Marathon, I remember standing near the finish line thinking I wish I could take part!!! Now, nearly 9 years later I am a Run Leader for Porth Eirias Runners. I am not a natural sporty person but I love being out with the group and I take great pleasure in supporting others on their running journey.
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Jasper McQueen, Leader |
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| I started running in 2019 after my wife had joined Porth Eirias Runners C25K program. I was inspired to try it myself but didn't think I would last a week as running had never interested me. I am happy to say I loved it and soon joined Porth Eirias Runners. I have since run a variety of races from 5k to a marathon…….everyone loves a medal and a T-shirt!!! Running with a group helped me gain greater fitness and a better understanding of pre and post run preparations, and it's just more fun running with a group. About 2 years ago I was asked if I would like to become a Run Leader, I jumped at the chance to give back the support I had received and help other runners on their journey to success. |
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Ann O'Connor, Leader |
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| I have been a member of the Porth Eirias Runners (PER) for a few years now and became a Run Leader just over two years ago. I'm in my mid-50s and certainly not a super fit, elite runner, but the group encourage and supported me on my journey. I feel so lucky to be able to run and socialise with people of all background and abilities, and I enjoy being able to give something back and encourage others to take that first step.
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Mark Evans, Leader |
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| I started running in 2020 @ 46 years young, doing C25K with Porth Eirias Runners. I didn't think I would last a week as I had tried running before on my own and did not stick to it, but I’m happy to say I now really enjoy running!!! I have since run a variety of races from 5k to a marathon. Running with the group has helped me find my pace and my love for running, it's much more enjoyable running with others and I have made so many new friends. About 2 years ago I was asked if I would like to become a Run Leader, I jumped at the chance to give back the support I had received and even ran a C25k course to help people find their love for running, it's amazing how we all think we can't run 1 min let alone 5k. I love being part of this friendly no pressure run club. |
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Natalie James, Leader |
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| In January 2023, I joined Porth Eirias Runners as a complete Couch to 5K beginner, aiming to get fitter and take a break from a busy lifestyle. What I discovered was a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community that made me feel at home straight away. With their encouragement, I’ve gone on to complete 5K, 10K, and even a half marathon—never quickly, but that was never the goal. It’s the uplifting atmosphere and mental health benefits that have kept me coming back. Now, I’m proud to give back as a group leader, supporting others just as I was supported. Joining this friendly, mixed-ability group has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. |
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Crazy Sue, Leader |
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| Hi, I’m Sue, I started running when I was 40 as part of keeping fit & well-being. I was soon addicted ! I was involved with Cross Country and was the Cross Country Manager for 3 years, I was also the Social Secretary for 3 years with my previous club. At this time I was running regular half marathons which was my favourite discipline, also lots of trail runs and 10 kms often getting placed in my age group. I even managed 2 marathons. After reaching a certain age I thought I’d hang my trainers up thinking I was too old!!! Bad decision. I felt I was missing out every time I saw someone running. I spotted Porth Eirias Runners on the promenade, they always seemed so friendly and had a smile on their faces so I thought I would look them up and give it a try. After a couple of years I was asked if I’d like to become a Run Leader. (LiRF). I felt so privileged to be asked and threw myself into the challenge. I am happy to pass on my experience and love of running to others. I feel it’s a healthy way of life and everyone can achieve their goal, whether it be walk, jog or run. Warm ups are important and I concentrate on technique and words of encouragement, I always make a session fun and engage everyone. Porth Eirias Runners are so supportive throughout thick and thin and strong friendships are made. Long may I run and pass my enthusiasm & support on and encourage others to join our happy group. Who knows at 65, I may manage a third marathon. You’re never too old. |
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Barry Palmer, Leader |
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I had been running solo on and off for 10 years, trying to maintain a level of fitness, while juggling a busy work and home life. The main benefit of running for me has been the positive impact on my mental wellbeing, its a fantastic way of unwinding after a busy day.
I always wanted to join a running club but felt intimidated to do so as I didn't consider myself to be a 'proper runner'. I then stumbled across the Porth Erias Runners group page on Facebook, they looked like a friendly, welcoming group, not intimidating whatsoever!!! So I took the plunge and joined the group in 2023. I can honestly say it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. The group have been so welcoming and supportive and I have made some great friends along the way. I was incredibly proud when I was asked to become a leader, especially as I was so new to the group. I hope I can help to make all runners feel as welcome as I did when I joined the group and encourage them on their running journeys.
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Ffion Bell, Leader
I’ve never been a natural runner despite giving it a go several times over the years. After countless gym memberships, I realised I wanted a more enjoyable, active, and social way to improve my fitness. I tried a variety of classes and clubs, but nothing quite felt right. When a very special friend, club leader Zara, introduced me to PER, I was incredibly nervous. However, after just a few sessions, I knew I’d found exactly what I’d been looking for. I’ve now been part of this amazing group for 18 months and haven’t looked back since.
It’s made a huge difference to my motivation, mindset, and self-belief. PER is such a friendly, supportive, and passionate community, and I’m so grateful for the way I’ve been welcomed and encouraged. It’s a real honour to now be a leader, and I’m excited to continue my journey while helping to support others along the way.
Alan Hackett, Leader
After a chance encounter in a Coop car park during September 2024 with a warm invite to come along for a trial session led me to joining and becoming part of Porth Eirias Runners. I Immediately felt comfortable and at ease in a friendly social group with support and humour along the way. I would have never progressed or enjoyed this running bug so much had I tried it by myself running alone. I hope I can assist and encourage my friends and fellow runners by being a leader and in a small way help our wonderful club to grow and develop
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