On Saturday evening, at the Welsh Athletics and Run Wales Annual Awards evening, we had the opportunity to celebrate social running within the wider context of the world of Welsh Athletics. As always, it was a pleasure to see so many representatives of our Social Running Groups come together to support and celebrate the huge contribution our groups and leaders make to participation in running across the country.
Run Wales Leader of the Year
The amazing individuals who volunteer their time, skills and experience as Coaches and Run Leaders are the lifeblood of our groups, ensuring that everyone has a safe, suitable and enjoyable experience when they attend our sessions. It can be easy to forget that often, they are juggling their commitments to the groups with a multitude of other demands, yet they turn up week in, week out, full of enthusiasm and positivity to help us get the most our of our running. The Run Wales Leader of the Year award gives us the opportunity to reflect on those who have made a significant contribution to our journey and gone over and above to share the love for running within the local community.
Run Wales Leader of the Year 2024
Jon Hussey, Rhoose Runners
Jon received numerous nominations from members of Rhoose Runners, telling us about his passion and enthusiasm for all things running. In the words of one of his nominators – “Whether rain or shine, Jon’s energy and excitement for every run are palpable and contagious. His unwavering enthusiasm transforms even the most challenging runs into enjoyable experiences, inspiring everyone around him to push their limits and find joy in every step.”
Congratulations, Jon!
Run Wales Leader of the Year 2024 Shortlist:
Gruby Barrett – She Runs Cardiff 👉
“Gruby is inspirational, she quietly & with genuine kindness inspires, motivates & supports the group & individuals consistently. She is so welcoming of all abilities, she understands how & when to help & her advice is always pure gold. She helps many of us achieve our running goals.”
Geraldine Tucker – Cowbridge Moovers 👇
“Geraldine is the heart and sole of our running club. She’s an inspiration and such a motivator for everyone! A wealth of knowledge and always happy to help with form, training needs, socials and events. Her enjoyment and dedication to the sport has faltered for years and her passion really comes across when you talk with her. Thank you for improving so many people’s fitness and passion for the sport Geraldine!!”
Nominations in this category were also received for: Darran Moran (Vale Runners), Diane Hitchcock (BRF Running Club), Joanna Dee (Vale Runners), Josie Rhisiart (Mon Milers), Myfanwy Thomas (She Runs Cardiff), Nathan Dee (Vale Runners), Rob Campion (Campions Champions) and Sue Gershenson (Vale Runners) .
Run Wales Group of the Year
Everyone likes to think that their social running group is the best, and we love to receive the nominations for the Run Wales Group of the Year award to read exactly why you believe that your group deserves to win this prestigious award. This year, it has been a real treat to receive comprehensive nominations for two relative newcomers to the Run Wales family alongside the more established groups. We congratulate each and every group who was nominated and thank you for your support and dedication to runners of all ages and abilities within your communities.
Run Wales Group of the Year 2024: The Running Social
The Running Social in Caerleon was only established in February 2024 but has already inspired more than 100 people to join them every Monday and Wednesday for a social run and to get out and move. The initiative aims to engage everyone, from beginners to seasoned runners, ensuring that all participants feel included and valued.
Congratulations to the team at The Running Social!
Run Wales Social Running Group of the Year 2024 Shortlist:
“BRF is a great local running group that offers several sessions each week. The run leaders are friendly, social and encouraging and offer lots of support to every member. There are sessions offered to improve your skills and also regular sessions in a morning, followed by coffee and a chat. These sessions are great for anyone whether you are a seasoned runner or someone looking to get out and try to keep fit. Each session can also be tailored to individual needs and leaders are conscious to be aware of particular needs eg, injury or disability. We also run regular trips to undertake parkrun either local or away which are another good social event that gets people out and about.”
“Such a welcoming & supportive group to be involved in! Campions Champions is a family that takes your from a couch potato to a c25k or even further with encouragement and your own pace!”
Nominations in this category were also received for: Cowbridge Moovers, Mon Milers, She Runs Cardiff, and Vale Runners.
The awards night provides an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate some inspiring individuals and groups across Wales. However, we also recognise and thank everyone else in our sport and in our Run Wales community who continue to support so many people to experience the mental, physical and social benefits that running provides. We salute you all and look forward to receiving many more nominations for the next Run Wales Awards!