Frequently Asked Questions

Who are West 4 Harriers?

Established in 1989, we firmly believe we are the friendliest running club in London.   

So is it just a social club? 

Far from it. Our members range from runners with the ability to run 2.20 marathons to the social runner who may only come down once a week.      

I am quite new to running. How fit do I need to be to join? 

It is best if you can comfortably run for approx. 30 minutes without stopping, with the ability to hold a conversation of some sort.

Question:

What is the best night for me to come down initially? 

Take a look at the training section on the website to see what suits you. Most 'newbies' come down on a Monday night first of all when we have a nice, easy social run. Some of our more serious runners use this as a 'recovery' after a hard run or race at the weekend.  

I have started training for an upcoming race? Will I receive advice?  

Some of our runners have more years experience than they care to think about so we are always happy to pass it on. There will be others who have recently started running for the first time so you will be able to run with people who have similar goals. We have a coach for each training night - Monday night's session is held by Pete Brown, Tuesday night is Jon Scott Francis and Thursday's sessions are set by Mark Critchlow.  

How much is it to join? 

The membership fee is currently £20 a year. You may also choose to race for West 4 Harriers. If so you would have to join the England Athletics Association which is an extra £5 a year (we do all the paperwork for you). This E.A. membership allows you reduced race entry fees and can also be used to receive discounts at some stores, such as Sweatshop.    

How do I join?

It is a good idea to come down a few times to ensure the club is for you. Once happy, simply fill in a form you can pick up at the club and hand to Pete Brown (club secretary) or Keith Simpson (treasurer).

What races do West 4 enter?

We enter many local events, supporting local clubs, some in the UK and also internationally. We run in the Surrey Cross Country League, with the men currently in Division 3 and the ladies in the top division. All abilities are welcome - the more the merrier.  

What social events can I look forward too?

As well as the usual Christmas Parties and summer BBQs, we are always arranging nights out for birthdays, anniversaries, births, pb's - in fact any excuse to meet up with our running buddies!   

Do you organise training weekends?

We do, but so much more. Twice a year West 4 decamp to the New Forest for some training, fresh air, relaxation and fun. We organise an annual trip to Lanzarote for an International Challenge week - normally 4 races, lots of other sports and more fun. Recently West 4 have been away to Amsterdam, Jersey and Norway for a marathon / half marathon weekend with new trips planned for possibly Berlin and Budapest. All of course with a bit of sightseeing thrown in. 

Who do I need to contact for more information? 

You can just turn up on any training night and ask, or you can e-mail keithsimpson67@hotmail.com

When can I start? 

No time better than this week.