Hi! My name is John, and I'm one of run leaders with the Far Runners.

I started running back in 2017 after switching from a very physically active job to sitting behind a desk: unfortunately my eating habits didn't change to reflect this reduced activity and something had to be done!

If I'm honest, I didn't immediately fall in love with running and struggled, but I persevered and haven't looked back since. The Far Runners and all their support are one of main reasons I've stuck with it and now absolutely love it.

I first ran with the group in Jan 2020 but then 'something' came up, and this meant I didn't really get involved until 2021. I then became a run leader in 2022 and followed this by becoming a coach in 2023.

As a runner I prefer trail running rather than normal road running (you'll find a lot of us leaders enjoy running through mud!). 2022 was a big one for me, completing my first marathons and a 100km race, I've not looked back since. The physical benefits of running definitely make me feel less guilty when I'm stuffing my face with cake, or having that 'one' extra beer, but it's my mental health that I find running benefits most. There's nothing like getting out in the fresh air and countryside to clear the head, and we certainly have some cracking countryside round here.