About Cotswold Allrunners
Cotswold Allrunners was founded in March 2009 when a group of 20 runners had been meeting regularly through the winter at Stratford Park Leisure Centre in Stroud. It was decided that Stroud was ready for a new running club and so the club “Cotswold Allrunners” was formed. The name “Cotswold Allrunners” was devised through two very obvious channels. The first being that we were training and running in the heart of the beautiful Cotswolds and the second was that we were open to all runners, hence “Cotswold Allrunners”. Although a hint of american style name, we are the first Allrunners in the UK and hope that future running clubs follow our ideal of being inclusive in name as well as in attitude.
Our ethos at the club is one of enjoyment first, then challenges. That’s not to say we don’t run to our limits, it’s just that we make sure fundamentals are a priority, before we attempt otherwise. Walk before you can run, learn to run before you race.
“At first fitness holds you back, but once achieved the mind thinks you are ready to push yourself harder and faster, but the real key is to make sure the body is ready to run, even if the mind has been ready for some time.”
Simon Barnes, founder of Cotswold Allrunners
A word from the Chairman – Anthony Lax
“As a runner myself, I am honoured of chairing Cotswold Allrunners. This is a an excellent club for anyone who wishes to improve their fitness and running potential. The focus is on enjoying your running, but if you wish to pursue certain running goals, such as a 5k, a Race4Life or maybe a marathon, the support is there.”
What some of the members of Cotswold Allrunners have to say
“It’s a friendly fitness & running group of individuals who are enjoying getting out in the fresh air of the Cotswolds, whilst improving their healthy lifestyle and having fun!,”
describes Dinah from Dudbridge
“I don’t believe it. I have never been any good at anything. But now running is my thing! I love it! And apparently my coach says I have massive potential, which I am starting to believe now, 6 months after he said so“,
Alex Hughes from Stroud
“I‘ve always tried to keep fit, but running with Cotswold Allrunners makes staying fit one of the easiest option yet. The running groups are fun, friendly and welcoming“,
Bea, 59 from Stroud
“After sessions I feel tired but exhilarated. Nothing seems to hit the spot like running“,
Aimee. 32 from Stroud ** read her full story …
“The club members are really friendly and encouraging“,
Laura Stewart from Stroud ** read her full story …
“It’s simple, I love to run and I want others to experience what I do“
Dave Smith, assistant coach with Cotswold Allrunners
“Since I’ve joined the club, I’ve seen a huge improvement in myself, made good friends and there’s no greater motivation than that“
Liz from Stonehouse ** read her full story …