Paul Anderson – December 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
Since 2016
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
Light lager of some kind, such as San Miguel… And a pint of water if I’ve been running!
Favourite racing distance?
Definitely the Parkrun/5k. I also like marathons for their soul-cleansing potential, but I couldn’t do these frequently!
Favourite race/event?
Probably my first official race, which was the Birmingham Half in 2016. I’ll never forget how it was to step into a mass of eager runners for the first time on that day. The atmosphere was electric, but also terrifying and nerve-wracking… I was hooked.
Proudest moment as a runner?
Completing the Manchester Marathon last year in a PB time. I ran most of the race with Tim Ogbourn, which felt like great camaraderie. At the end I had to dig deep and managed to hang on and beat my target time. It was definitely a soul-cleansing experience!
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
The friendly reputation at Bournville Harriers precedes the club, as can be seen by the huge support we receive at local races. As an insider, I see the club as truly welcoming and inclusive. It also provides fantastic opportunities to stretch ourselves and exceed our own expectations!
Sara Hewison – November 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I have been a member for 5 years.
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
I drink Prosecco, of course!
Favourite racing distance?
Half marathon is my favourite distance.
Favourite race/event?
Great North Run is my favourite event.
Proudest moment as a runner?
London marathon, raising money for St Mary’s Hospice.
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
Bournville Harriers has the loveliest, friendliest most caring bunch of people I have ever met! We are competitive, but fair in everything we do! There’s something for everyone at every level.
Definitely the most welcoming club in the Midlands. The coaching team is phenomenal with expert help and advice. Everyone is and would be made welcome. An excellent club, and the only place to be on a Monday night!
Fiona Barker – October 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
Since joining the Beginners’ Course in 2016.
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
It depends on the day, but I love a decent cup of tea or coffee…
Favourite racing distance?
My favourite racing distance is the half marathon
Favourite race/event?
My favourite race/events are the Edinburgh Half and the Road Relays (for which I have a love/hate relationship!)
Proudest moment as a runner?
My proudest moment is struggling around the London Marathon with an injured knee but still raising £4000 for Mind.
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
It’s one of the most welcoming, non-judgemental and friendliest places I have found. Belonging to BVH held me so much during Covid lockdowns and I find so much support from those wonderful incidental running conversations.
People in BVH have been some of my biggest encouragers. When I was thinking about trying out for the Tuesday group, David Mountford said to me, “even though you don’t believe in yourself yet, I already believe in you.” Why would you not want to join?!
Tim Hodges – September 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I’ve been a member of BvH since 2016.
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
A British ale made with English hops
Favourite racing distance?
My favourite racing distance is 10k.
Favourite race/event?
My favourite race/event is BvH Leafy 10k
Proudest moment as a runner?
My proudest moment is running the Great North Run with my niece Ruby and raising funds for Breast Cancer Now
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
I’d tell them how welcoming and supportive our members are and how many different training and running opportunities there are during each week and season.
Jaeda Goodman – August 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
Since 2016
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
Wine or beer
Favourite racing distance?
I don’t really have a favourite; usually it’s whatever I did last as long as I didn’t do too badly!
Favourite race/event?
I really enjoyed the Grizzly this year, spectacularly beautiful, brutal and muddy, and it was a great atmosphere as it was one of the first big post-lockdown events
Proudest moment as a runner?
Probably finally getting under 4 hours after a few marathon attempts, but I’m also quite proud of winning the Marathon Talk competition to predict Tom Williams’ Comrades time – it’s one thing to have a fair idea of what fellow club members might achieve on any given day but another to manage it for a stranger!
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
It’s very friendly and welcoming and caters for all levels – also, teal eyeshadow is easier to pull off than orange or red!
Chris Hamlett – July 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I have been a member since 2018.
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
A pint of pale ale would be wonderful 
Favourite racing distance?
Favourite racing distance is probably half marathon.
Favourite race/event?
Aside from the Leafy 10k (obviously!), my favourite race I have done would be Ras Dewi Sant 10k (a wonderful costal path 10k in Pembrokeshire). Although the Disney Paris Half marathon I did in 2018 was amazing and I love running the Great Midlands Fun Run (8.5miler in Sutton Coldfield) as the support is fantastic.
Proudest moment as a runner?
My proudest moment as a runner was getting third place in the recent BUMS series and being voted Member of the Month.
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
I would tell anyone who is interested in joining BvH is that it is the friendliest, most inclusive club I know and the range of reps sessions and club runs means there really is something for everyone.
Richard Keep – June 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I joined in 2016, having started running through parkrun in 2014.
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
A non alcoholic beer
Favourite racing distance?
Probably 5k, anything over that seems very long
Favourite race/event?
It will take a lot to beat the Midnight Sun 10k in Norway, everything about it was very special. I’ll never forget all the support out on the course during my race, the amazing scenery and then getting to watch the marathon runners finish in the light of the midnight sun. I’m also partial to a bit of parkrun tourism, that’s always fun.
Proudest moment as a runner?
I think that this would have to be running my 5k PB at the Gatwick Runway Run, earlier this summer. I had been struggling with injuries for a long time before that and recovery seemed to be taking forever. On the day, everything just seemed to come together. I had a target of 17:00 in mind and somehow managed 16:35!
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
I’d tell them that no matter how quick you run or how long you’ve been running for, there will be others in the club at exactly the same level you. Whether their motivation is to run a certain race distance or just have an excuse to get out running and meet loads of amazing new people, then they’ll find a home at BvH.
Eleanor Pitcher – May 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
Officially a member since January 2021, but lockdowns meant I didn’t do anything until July 2021 
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
A Diet Pepsi/Coke or a black coffee haha
Favourite racing distance?
Ooo! I’ve only raced 1 10k and 2 half-marathons so I’m not sure. I’ll go for a half-marathon.
Favourite race/event?
I’m not sure if it’s a favourite race/event but XC Nationals was so cool to take part in and experience the mass start/atmosphere etc.
Proudest moment as a runner?
My proudest moments have actually been when I’ve paced friends to PBs – I don’t know why but I’ve always get so much more hyped and excited over helping them, than I have of my own!
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
BvH are the friendliest most lovely bunch of people, whether you’re fast or slow they’re just excited about other people trying out something we all love 
Rhian Littlewood – April 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I’ve been a member since 2014 – it feels simultaneously like yesterday and like I have been a member forever!
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
I am usually happy to accept a gin and tonic!
Favourite racing distance?
My favourite racing distance is half marathon! Long enough to feel worth travelling to but not so long that it takes over your life in preparing and recovering.
Favourite race/event?
My favourite race ever was Pembrokeshire half marathon which I did very recently. I haven’t done many trail races but this might have converted me – the views were incredible, there was no pressure on time and I just loved it. A close runner up is Man vs Horse – I was nearly broken by the last one but just loved how mad it was and the whole atmosphere.
Proudest moment as a runner?
Proudest moment as a runner is probably finishing my first marathon. I never thought I would run a marathon and my goals were (in order): finish; finish without crying; finish in 4 hours. I managed all three and remember just feeling so unbelievably proud. I also have very fond memories of team cross country races and certainly my proudest moments as a Harrier have been as part of our team events.
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
If someone was thinking of joining BvH, I would tell them that it will be the best decision they could make. No matter what your pace you will be able to train and run with experienced friendly runners, but more importantly you will make friends for life!
Charlie Hurd – March 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I’ve been a member since September 2019
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
Anything alcoholic
Favourite racing distance?
10K
Favourite race/event?
Sutton Park 10K
Proudest moment as a runner?
Winning Race for Life at Cannon Hill Park. Raised lots of money, with my work buddies & had a photo in the paper
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
It’s such a friendly, welcoming club. That encourages you without pressuring you. With so many lovely, genuine people. So glad I joined 😊🎽💙🏃♀️
Ian Reynolds – February 2022
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I joined BVH in 2017 after completing the beginners course.
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
A pint of IPA would be nice.
Favourite racing distance?
Most of my more recent runs have been 5k, but, I haven’t really got a favourite distance. I’ve been planning on building back up to 10k and even further. I’d like to have a go at an ultra, one day, if my body will let me!
Favourite race/event?
The Sutton Fun Run was always a favourite of mine in the past. More recent events have been Thunder Run and Equinox Run at Belvoir Castle. But, of course running around Bournville in my pyjamas has got to be up there. Who’d have thought I’d be doing that! I also enjoy participating in parkrun, whether at my local one or as a tourist.
Proudest moment as a runner?
There are a number of them, ranging from completing the beginners course and discovering that I could still run a “bit” and winning Fastest Beginner at the Killer Mile in 2017. To completing my first 10k training run, many years after I’d last run that kind of distance in my 20’s, to completing three laps in both Thunder Run and Equinox. And of course, winning this Member of The Month award.
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
BVH are a very friendly, inclusive, welcoming club. Whatever your level, you will always find help and encouragement. They provide the opportunity to develop your running in any way that you could want. Whether that be going for a social run or improving your running through the help and guidance of the coaches, who have a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Barrie Roberts – January 2022
It was a busy start to the year for Barrie – coaching twice a week, finishing off his CIRF coaching qualification, and representing Welsh Masters in the British Masters Indoor 3000m in Sheffield. Congratulations on being out first Member of the Month for 2022!
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I have run with Bournville Harriers from its inception – circa 2000.
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
If I am in the vicinity of the Bar, I may well be drinking a pint of ‘Atlantic.’
Favourite racing distance?
I have competed in distances between 100m and 26.2 miles. I don’t have a favourite distance, but I do enjoy middle distance running.
Favourite race/event?
I don’t have a favourite race/event ,but the London Marathon and the Great North Runs are very special events in which to participate.
Proudest moment as a runner?
My proudest moment as a runner? Winning the Annual School 1 Mile Race – circa 1960 Dynevor Grammar School,Swansea —— OR —— in more recent times, Winning the UK 800m indoor title at Lee Valley – circa 2014.
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
The benefits of joining a club, such as Bournville Harriers ,are numerous. eg. Camaraderie,Coaching,motivation,inside information. Joining a club will invariably improve your running + your physical and mental health.
Running as part of a club team, whatever your level of ability and performance, is likely to give you more inspiration and motivation than running on your own, and that can help you to dig deep and discover your potential. You can run for your club’s benefit, but also your own.
People run for all sorts of valid and legitimate reasons, and whatever distance or type of running you hope to do, Bournville Harriers can help you in your journey. Use of the Club can be a source of training partners.
We are well placed for those who live in and around Birmingham, a Commonwealth Games City, and have a reputation for being a friendly and inclusive seeking local club. Recently, we have had an influx of younger men/women join us. Members of BvH, and their distinctive teal/navy running vests, have been seen running/racing all over the UK ,Europe and the wider world beyond , in recent years. Do come and join us!
How did you keep fit and motivated during the lockdown period?
My motivation and fitness levels during ‘Lockdown’/ Pandemic were enhanced by being able to train/coach some very special ‘Bubbles;’ albeit, under the supervision of the BvH Coaching Team set up. The Head Coaches knew,in advance, what I was hoping/planning to do. Many of those who ran during Lockdown, are now running regularly as members of BvH. Indeed,it is wonderful that we have so many new runners join us in the recent past.
Nicola Mann – December 2021
Dedication to training throughout the autumn led to a string of excellent race performances including podium finishes at Wyre Forest and NICE 10k. All on top of regular club representation at Road Relays and Cross Country. Congratulations Nicki on earning December’s Member of the Month!
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I joined BVH in 2015 after completing the Beginner’s Course
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
It won’t cost you anything…..as usually drink tap water these days!
Favourite racing distance?
I used to love running ultras but after getting injured 18 months ago the physio advised concentrating on shorter distances. My favourite racing distance tends to change depending what I’m currently training for. Overall, I think my preferred distance is a Half marathon or 10 miler.
Favourite race/event?
This season I’ve enjoyed participating in the XC ….from the short 3km of Masters and National Relays, the 4 mile league races to the longer 5 mile Midlands champs and 5 and 7s. I like the variety and challenges the different courses pose.
There’s always great camaraderie being part of the team and representing BvH too, but also exciting as our Women’s team is going from strength to strength…both in participation and performance! Fab to see so many new members running XC for BvH.
Other races that stand out are Loch Ness Marathon and Pennine Barrier Ultra….a 50 miler which also includes the three highest peaks in Yorkshire. The scenery is spectacular in both ….making all those miles feel easier!
Proudest moment as a runner?
Completing 6 Ultra Marathons in 4 months in 2018 (including a couple of 100k events ), raising over £2000 for RSVP.
More recently, running big PB’s to go sub 47 in Goodwood 10K and a sub 1:43 in Derby Half Marathon.
18 months ago wouldn’t have dreamt it possible to get anywhere near those times.
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
Friendly, inclusive, supportive family of runners, with excellent coaching team to help develop as a runner and countless opportunities to get involved and participate in all areas of the club’s events/activities/coaching. Joining BvH certainly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!
How did you keep fit and motivated during the lockdown period?
I used lockdown to focus on other areas of health and fitness besides running. Working on strength and conditioning, losing some weight by eating more healthily. I also walked loads …exploring parts of Birmingham I’d never previously been to.
After returning from injury, I used strava to work on improving speed by challenging myself on different segments.
Jude Glynn – October 2021
Quite the October for Jude – representing the club in Midland and National Road Relays, Cross Country Relays, Age Category win in the NICE 10k, and a PB at the London Marathon nabbing a club age category record. A hard earned October Member of the Month!
How long have you been a member of BvH?
I joined BVH after the 2011 Beginners’ Course so I’ve been a member for over a decade now!
If you see me in the Pavilion Bar, you can buy me a…
Cider
Favourite racing distance?
… hmm…. I’m not convinced I have a favourite -I just love a good race!
Favourite race/event?
… so many to choose from ! Probably Thunder Run although London Marathon, Kenilworth Half & the Action Heart Tuff Un rate highly !
Proudest moment as a runner?
Crossing the finish line of last year’s London Marathon having absolutely smashed it ! Those twenty months of training actually paid off!! Being awarded Club Member of the Year is right up there too though.
If you were trying to entice someone into joining BvH, what would you tell them about the club?
Totally awesome club full of awesome people who I am privileged to train and race with and have as friends. The most inclusive club I’ve come across .
How did you keep fit and motivated during the lockdown period?
I ran every day in lockdown and stayed motivated with some virtual events – (not) parkrun, virtual WRRL as well as club events