Leader’s Blog April ’24 – Ed Shakespeare

Each month, we’ll be sharing the stories and insights of our group leaders. If you are interested in giving leading a go, talk to your group leader at club, or email hello@hydeparkharriers.co.uk we have tonnes of resources to help you, a library of running routes, training sessions and support.  

This month we’re chatting to Ed Shakespeare who often leads groups 1-7 on a Tuesday evening. 

How did you get in to leading? 

I used to lead in a previous run club, so when I saw an invite for HPH leaders, I got involved. It also provided an easy way to give something back to the club.  

What do you love about leading? 

I really enjoy facilitating events that motivate people to get out. It’s also a good excuse to vary the group that I run in – I usually choose to take any group that’s looking for a leader, so I end up meeting new people and planning a wide variety of routes.   

Do you have any interesting or creative ways of leading? 

Looking for green spaces is always popular with people, especially in the summer. 

What would your advice be to anyone thinking about starting to lead? 

It’s really really simple – anyone can do it! And there’s the added incentive that you get to beat the signup rush on Spond… 

Do you have any specific stories about leading you’d like to share?  

I just like to remember that we almost always get good feedback, even when it may seem a run/route was subpar, so it’s always good to keep in mind that your effort is greatly appreciated by members!  

Ed’s final thoughts on leading are that “It’s a simple job, and helps the club deliver sessions for so many people, so if you’re at all tempted, give it a go!” 

Thanks Ed for your thoughts on leading and for regularly volunteering to lead group sessions!  

If you fancy giving leading a go, talk to your group leader at club, or email hello@hydeparkharriers.co.uk and we’ll get you started.