Having joined East London Runners for motivation during marathon training, Jacob Stevens then discovered there was a whole world of local races to enjoy and went on to become chair of the welcoming group
East London Runners was formed in 1982 – following the success of the inaugural 1981 London Marathon – when an informal group of fewer than 20 novices began meeting locally for training runs. By 1985, the group had grown to 120 runners competing in the London, New York, Berlin and Amsterdam marathons, and the Hyde Park Fun Run and Great North Run, among others.
Today, East London Runners prides itself on being a welcoming community that is open to runners of all levels, and while marathons remain as popular as ever, many people don’t realise that joining a club opens the door to a whole world of races. These inclusive events are affordable – or even completely free – and for runners of all paces.
August Bank Holiday marked the end of the summer season with the eighth and final race of the East London 5K and five-mile interclub series. Now, the local running community looks forward to a packed autumn and winter schedule. Club members get free entry to two main competitions: the local Chingford League featuring seven road and trail races across North and East London, and a Sunday cross-country league featuring five fun off-road races. Races across both leagues range from 3km to 10km.
Members also take part in various London, Essex and regional cross-country championships. Additionally, the club hosts its very own winter handicap race, which starts and finishes at Mill Plain and loops through Epping Forest around Oak Hill. Not only are these events great value, but they’re also welcoming and boast a thriving community spirit, often fundraising for local causes. They’re a fantastic way to keep active through autumn and winter while exploring beautiful parks and natural spaces. For mid-week training, casual and competitive runners alike come together for the club’s weekly social run, meeting on Wednesday evenings at Eton Manor Rugby Club. Runners join a group at a pace and distance of their choice and ability, with street routes exploring local areas through the winter.
In the lighter summer months, runs head into many local green spaces, including Wanstead Flats, Hollow Ponds and various parts of Epping Forest. The forest is also a popular destination for Sunday social runs. Organised among members, these often start on Derby Road and finish at a local coffee shop. Monday-night track at Ashton Playing Fields in Woodford is another popular session led by the club’s qualified coaches.
No matter your pace, distance or running goals, East London Runners has an activity to suit, along with support and camaraderie from the club’s 250 members.
New members are welcome and can try out the club’s Monday and Wednesday sessions for free. For more information, visit eastlondonrunners.org.uk
