Founders Update, September Edition- The Month Ahead

Founders Lee Small and Ryan Trumpeter

A Milestone-Filled First Month for Black Country Runners

What an exhilarating start for Black Country Runners! As we wrap up our first month, we’re bursting with pride over what we’ve achieved and buzzing with excitement for what lies ahead. From launching our website to celebrating a race win, our club is quickly becoming a vibrant, inclusive community for runners of all backgrounds in the Black Country. Here’s a look at our milestones and what’s in store for the month ahead.

Milestones

Our First Month of Existence

It’s only been a month since Black Country Runners hit the ground running, and we’re already making waves. The passion and energy from our members have laid a solid foundation for a club that’s all about community, support, and the love of running. We’re thrilled to see our vision coming to life!

Website Launched

Our official Black Country Runners website is up and running! It’s the perfect place to find event schedules, membership info, and resources for runners of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just curious about joining, the website is your one-stop shop for everything BCR. Visit us online at www.blackcountryrunners.co.uk

Our Own Flag

We’ve got our very own Black Country Runners flag, proudly waving at our events! It’s a bold symbol of our unity and spirit, and it’s already become a recognisable marker for our club. Look out for it at our next run—it’s a rallying point for our community.

Kit and Gazebo on Order

We’re gearing up for our events with custom Black Country Runners kit and a branded gazebo on the way. Soon, you’ll see our members sporting matching gear and gathering under our gazebo at races and meetups, adding a professional and vibrant touch to our presence.

Co-Founder Lee Small’s Triumph

A massive congratulations to our co-founder, Lee Small, for taking first place at the Sandwell Valley Parkrun in his age category! Lee’s victory is a shining example of the dedication and talent within our club. His achievement has inspired us all to push harder and celebrate every milestone together.

30 Members Strong

Our WhatsApp group is thriving with 30 members and growing! This lively space is where we plan runs, share tips, and cheer each other on. It’s the heartbeat of our club, connecting runners across the Black Country and fostering a sense of belonging.

An Inclusive Community

Black Country Runners is proud to be a club for everyone—women, children, and men of all ages and abilities. We’ve welcomed brand-new runners who’ve never laced up before, and it’s been incredible to watch them take their first steps with us. Our inclusive ethos ensures there’s a place for everyone, no matter where you are on your running journey.

Mr. Motivator’s Support

We’re absolutely thrilled to have the backing of the legendary Mr. Motivator! His infectious energy and positivity align perfectly with our mission to inspire and uplift. His support is a game-changer as we grow our club and encourage everyone to get moving.

The Month Ahead: Big Plans for Black Country Runners

With our first month behind us, we’re charging into the future with bold plans to keep the momentum going. Here’s what’s on the horizon:

Regular Runs: Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays

Our group runs continue every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, welcoming runners of all levels. Wednesday evenings are ideal for shaking off the midweek blues, while our weekend runs let you explore the Black Country’s scenic trails and parks with the crew. Check our website or WhatsApp group for times, locations, and details. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or just want to enjoy the fresh air, there’s a run for you.

Kit Delivery

Our custom Black Country Runners kit is set to arrive this month! Get ready to see our members rocking their new gear at runs and events. The kit will not only boost our club spirit but also make it easier to spot each other in a crowd. Our gazebo will also be delivered, giving us a dedicated space to gather at events and create a welcoming hub for our community.

Preparing for Cannock 10K and Half Marathon

We’re gearing up for the Cannock 10K and Half Marathon, a major highlight for our club! Members are training hard to tackle these races, and we’ll be there to cheer each other on. Whether you’re running the 10K, the half marathon, or supporting from the sidelines, this event is a chance to showcase our club’s spirit and strength. Expect to see our flag flying high and our gazebo set up as a meeting point for runners and supporters alike.

Aiming to Register with England Athletics

To take our club to the next level, we’re working towards registering with England Athletics. This step will open up new opportunities for our members, including access to official races, training resources, and a stronger presence in the national running community. It’s a big milestone, and we’re excited to make it happen in the coming month.

Let’s Run the Black Country Together

As we reflect on our incredible first month and look to the future, we’re filled with gratitude for every member of Black Country Runners. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and camaraderie are what make this club special. Whether you’re a new runner taking your first strides, a seasoned athlete like Lee chasing victories, or someone who loves the social side of running, you’re part of our growing family.

The month ahead is packed with opportunities to run, train, and connect. Lace up your trainers, join our WhatsApp group, and check out our website for the latest updates. Let’s hit the trails, conquer the Cannock races, and build a stronger, more vibrant Black Country Runners together.

Here’s to an exciting month of running, community, and new achievements!The Black Country Runners Team