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Should I wait until I’m fit before coming along?
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You need to be able to run continuously for about 45mins at 11 minute mile pace, about 4 miles. However, from time to time we set up a group for complete beginners with the aim of training them to run a 5k, if you are interested in this please contact Penny through our contact us page.
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Where does the club meet for each session?
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The club meets at the Southgate Hockey Centre (our clubhouse) within Trent Park unless otherwise specified. There is a large car park in the grounds and Oakwood Underground station is within walking distance.
See our How to find us page for full details.
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Can I just turn up on a club night?
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Yes. Just ask for one of the group leaders and we’ll go from there. We would strongly suggest you come on a Thursday or Saturday initially and ask for one of the leaders. You will need to complete and sign the “Visitors Form” before you run so make sure to turn up at least 15 minutes before the start of the session.
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Are the club night runs fast?
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The club has many members of varying pace so we have a number of different groups to cater for all abilities. On a Thursday night, each team leader will announce what they are doing at the start of the session, i.e. 7 miles at 9 minute mile pace, 10 miles at 7.5 minute mile pace, etc. We never leave any runner alone and always stay as a group.
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How do I know what my pace is?
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Ideally, you will take part in our monthly handicap on the last Saturday of each month, which will determine your racing (running?) pace. However, if you wish to join us for a few running sessions prior to the handicap, one of our team leaders will determine what likely pace you are by asking you specific questions.
We will always err on the side of caution by starting you off in a steady group. That means you could find yourself working your way up the groups during the next few sessions or feel right at home where you are. People join the club for different reasons; some may join to get faster and move up the groups, others will be happy to stay in the same group.
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Are there changing facilities at the Club?
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Yes, there are changing rooms, toilets and showers for men and women in the Southgate Hockey Centre that we use as our clubhouse. These changing facilities are available to members only whilst the bar is open to the public.
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Can clothes and valuable belongings be left in the clubhouse while I am out running?
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Yes, you can leave your bag/s in the changing room although this is at your own personal risk. We always advise people to leave valuables in the boot of their car and not in the changing rooms as they are not supervised.
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Is drinking water available at the Clubhouse?
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We advise people to bring their own bottled water. There is a water fountain at the clubhouse and the bar staff will provide post-run jugs of water on hot days. The bar sells tea, coffee, drinking chocolate, soft and alcoholic drinks, as well as toast and snacks.
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When and how do I join?
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You can try the club out for a few sessions first to make sure it’s right for you but you are unable to use the clubhouse changing facilities during this time. After three to four visits, you would then need to fill out the application form found here (hyperlink) (alternatively the application form can be found in the clubhouse) and post this to our Membership Secretary, together with a cheque for the membership fee. You will then be issued with a membership card.
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What kit do I need?
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You are required to wear a club running vest for any league races that you take part in. You can order and purchase these from Catherine Sheppard. We recommend that you also buy specialised trainers for running from a reputable running retailer.
During the dark nights it is essential to wear something bright and visible, Group Leaders have the right to refuse to take someone not properly attired.
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Does the club cater for triathletes?
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Yes, the club has a small but active Triathlon section who swim, cycle and run each week. Please see the Triathlon section for more details.
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I have children who are interested in joining the club. How old do they have to be and when do they train?
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The club has a Junior / Young Athlete section who take part in a range of training activities, please refer to the Young Athletes section of the website for more information.
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I have a question that is not covered here. Who can I contact?
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Please go to our Contact page and complete our simple enquiry form, your question will be directed to the most appropriate person for an answer.
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How much does it cost to become a member and what do I get for my money?
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Membership costs full members the quivalent of £2 per week.
There are significant discounts for students in full-time education and/or under the age of 21 and special rates for Junior members aged from 8-15 years.
Full details of our membership fees can be found on our Membership page.
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Membership fees include full use of the Hockey Centre facilities (excluding the fitness centre). This works out to approximately £0.50 per visit if you use the centre only on training days.
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Benefits of membership include:
- Running in company with like minded people.
- Mixed ability groups that cater for everyone.
- Access to qualified club coaches.
- Free monthly Handicap.
- Members only Aquathon.
- Free use of open water swimming training facilities in the summer.
- Club social activities including Dinner - Dance, BBQ, Quiz nights etc.
- Discounts from selected sports suppliers.
- Sponsored inter-club races and events.
- Discounted entry into UK running events.
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You can join throughout the year and the price is calculated pro-rata from the month you join.
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