Member Spotlight: Richard S
Welcome to the third edition of our Member Spotlight!
This month, we are catching up with our club Chairperson, Richard. A member since 2014, Richard’s journey has taken him from a "very unfit" start to completing marathons alongside his Dad and capturing some of the club’s most iconic moments through his photography.
The Rapid Fire 5
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How long have you been an Alton Runner? I joined in 2014.
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Favorite race or route? Emsworth Relay - running with friends is always more fun!
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Road or Trail? Trail.
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Ultimate post-run snack? Anything chocolate.
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Running in one word? Adventurous.
The Deep Dive
What first got you into running? I needed to get fit and thought running wouldn't be too difficult (I was very wrong and unfit to begin with). My dad, former chairman Philip, did a lot of running and was part of the club, so it felt natural to join too. I’ve not regretted it once; I've made so many friends within the running community and it's great to catch up with them at events.
What is your favourite thing about being a member of Alton Runners? The members, the memories, and the fun we have. I’ve been part of a few clubs and none have the same sense of community and friendship that Alton Runners does. Everyone wants others to do better and will help in any way. I’m also the club's volunteer coordinator for some of the London Marathon events. It always amazes me how willing people are to give up their time to show off what being an Alton Runner truly means.
If someone was "on the fence" about joining, what would you tell them? Do it! You’ll make so many lifelong friends and get fit at the same time.
Tell us about a running moment or achievement you’re particularly proud of. I've been fortunate to do many events, but my first marathon, the Thames Meander in 2016, holds a special place. I ran the whole thing with my Dad, which was special and stressful at the same time, as he was a seasoned marathon runner by that point!
Beyond the Finish Line
The "Driving Instructor" Relay
One of my favorite stories is from the Emsworth Relay. One year, we used a driving instructor’s car, and he had left all the signs on! While I was driving and he was running, we were traveling down country lanes with other drivers moving out of the way. They expected to see a nervous student driver, but instead, they saw four runners in a car laughing away and having the time of our lives.
Capturing the Club
I am incredibly grateful to the club for showing off my photos. I started taking photos after an injury kept me from running because I still wanted to be part of the club. My favorite shot has to be from the New Forest 10 mile in 2024, where wild horses decided to run right across the course!
Richard’s story reminds that Alton Runners is about far more than just your pace - it's about the friendships made, the laughs shared, and the way we support one another even when we aren't wearing a bib.
Ready to start your own adventure? As Richard says, "Do it!" Whether you want a target to chase or just someone to chat to on a social run, there is a place for you here. Why not join us this Tuesday?