Member Spotlight: Rachel Walsh
Welcome to the latest edition of our Member Spotlight! This month, we are catching up with Rachel Walsh. Having returned to running during lockdown, Rachel has gone on to become one of our fantastic club coaches and was recently crowned the 2025/26 Hampshire Road Race League (HRRL) Women's Champion. From hitting impressive PBs to finding lifelong friends, here is Rachel's story.
The Rapid Fire 5
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How long have you been an Alton Runner? 6 years in September!
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Favourite race or route? Salisbury 10 mile - you get a t-shirt, too!
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Road or Trail? Always road, unless the trails are dry in the summer!
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Ultimate post-run snack? Flapjackery flapjack - if you haven’t tried it, you have to.
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Running in one word? Happiness.
The Deep Dive
What first got you into running? When Covid hit, I was on furlough from work. I used to run when I was 16 to 18, but I stopped when work got in the way. I started running again as a way to get out of the house and quickly fell in love with it. Then, I moved to Four Marks and decided to join the club.
What is your favourite thing about being a member of Alton Runners? The people are wonderful. I’ve met some amazing friends through the club and completed runs and races I never thought I could.
If someone was "on the fence" about joining a running club, what would you tell them? It’ll be the best decision you make. Take the leap!
Tell us about a running moment or achievement you’re particularly proud of. The Solent Half Marathon this year. I got a new PB, and the race just felt amazing from start to finish. It made every single cold and rainy training session worth it!
From restarting during lockdown to coaching others and becoming HRRL Champion, Rachel's journey shows just how far taking that first step can take you. Thinking about taking the leap yourself? As Rachel says: "It’ll be the best decision you make." Come along and join us for a session!