Training Officer

JERRY SMITH

I started running in my late 40s when living in Manchester and my wife Jenny decided to do a Race for Life 5k, so I joined her for the training, together with our then 8-year-old daughter.

In 2003 we signed up for the first Great Manchester Run 10k, and in 2005 I joined what was then a new local running club Chorlton Runners. Later I had a spell with Sale Harriers before returning to Chorlton Runners. Over the years I've raced at distances from 1,500 metres on the track to trail marathons and it's fair to say I've enjoyed the competitive side!

I've also been lucky enough to qualify through the England Athletics Age Group Masters programme which allows older runners the chance of running in an England vest.

We moved to Bollington at the end of 2021 and joining the Harriers has been one of the best things I've ever done. I've found a hugely welcoming and friendly community who enormously helped my transition to a new home.

Last year I even did my first ultra marathon, the Gritstone Grind. I love living and running here and the Harriers group runs are always a delight. I started leading the Sunday Snoozers last year and I really appreciate how lucky I am to be able to run with such a lovely group in a beautiful location.

Mind you I haven't completely lost my competitive nature and I can still enjoy a burn up on a flat stretch of tarmac especially when there's an age category prize at stake!