Club History

PLUMSTEAD RUNNERS was formed in early 1987 at a meeting in the Woodman P.H. Plumstead involving 10 local runners who met up to travel to races or met up at race venues. Most of us had already been meeting on Winns Common, Plumstead on Tuesdays and sometimes other days for training runs . Regular monthly meetings were held at Gallions Mount School. It was agreed that we would need a committe but that all members would share responsibilites and chores to maintain a balance among the membership that hopefully still exists today.

Meetings continued on the common sometimes in very bleak weather. Membership remained steady for a couple of years when it was proposed that we move to a sports club for training, meetings etc. Bexleyheath Sports club won. The area around Plumstead was considered but there was nowhere suitable unfortunately. Once into the new "Club" membership grew steadily and stays at around the 50-member mark.

During the early years many of the members running times were close which made training and races very competitive at times and we had moderate successes at races , Chatham 1/2 '88, Chelmsford 1/2 '88, St. Chad's 1/2 '86, '87, '88 ,and '89. The emphasis was on enjoying events and still is. We organise events but not all concerned with running , at various times on an informal basis we have done , white water rafting, dragon boat racing, canoe racing/sinking, go-karting, tennis, annual triathlons and other team events, in fact just about anything that comes along!

An annual disco, often fancy dress, is very well attended. We organise our own 10.5 mile and 10k Handicap races starting and finishing at the club and we take part in the Kent Sunday Cross Country League over 6-7 races through the winter months. We have had and continue to have members whose running successes have been outstanding and for many reasons.

It is hoped that members who have ideas for events, runs etc. will organise them and let the rest of the Club know it's not difficult. So please continue to turn up, organise, take part and an enjoyable past becomes an enjoyable future...............

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