Running
Cool Runnings is a social running group, with the emphasis on participation, self-improvement and fun in a pressure free environment. Not only do we regularly meet up for training, but we also hold regular socials ranging from the fortnightly Sports Nights at the guild to ice skating, the Christmas Meal and more!
The club is friendly, open and welcoming to its core so there will always be a place for everyone, no matter if you’ve just started running or are already a seasoned athlete. There will also be the opportunity to progress to the next level by moving into the main wing of the athletics club, for those who want to.
We also organise the Great Run Local at the Vale, a free, friendly run suitable for all ages, coordinated by some of the most friendly and committed volunteers in the running world!
How to get involved
Membership price is £36 which gets reduced to £26 in Term 2.
Please note that on top of the club fee there is a £16 fee that covers personal accident insurance when training or competing for the University, access to free cross-training sessions such as circuits and yoga, as well as a contribution to the costs of affiliation to various national governing bodies. This fee is only payable once so if you did decide to join a second club then you would not need to pay a second fee.
Training times & venues
Wednesday: Circuits (Slater Hall, Sport and Fitness), 6:30-7:30pm
Saturday: Circuits (Studio 1, Sport and Fitness), 4-5pm
Week A (weeks 1, 3, 5…):
Monday: Group Runs (meet outside Sport and Fitness), groups do various distances from 3-8km, 6pm
Friday: Track (meet outside Sport and Fitness), 6-7pm
Week B (weeks 2, 4, 6…):
Monday: Intervals (meet outside Sport and Fitness), 6-7pm
Thursday: Group Runs (meet outside Sport and Fitness), groups do various distances from 3-8km, 6pm
Successes and Achievements
- Grew to become the biggest participation club in the Uni at over 300 members!
- Dozens of PBs reached, including an amazing 7 first marathons and 15 half marathon PBs.
- First ever joint BUAC event at the Annual Dinner – over 100 attendees.
- New Runner of the Month set up to recognise significant achievements among members.
- Brand new Saturday circuits session implemented.
- New Great Run Local and Brunch for those Sunday morning runs
- 100% of surveyed members agree the club gives value for money.
Interesting facts
Cool Runnings is the participation wing of the Birmingham University Athletics and Cross Country club – our combined membership easily makes us the largest club on campus with over 500 members at the end of the last academic year.
The club takes in active part in running events, both by attending them and giving our members the opportunity to volunteer to help organise them.
We also work alongside the Great Run Company to organise the free Great Run Local at the Vale.
Key contacts
Head Coach: Ben Agnew
Club Captain: Dylan Whitaker
Notable Alumni
Amy Tansell, Mathematics (current student) – Great Birmingham 10k PB (despite high temperatures)
“Cool Runnings is more of a family than a club, whose commitment comes down to encouragement, no one is left behind.”
Oli Suchoparek, Economics (2018) – Warwick Half Marathon PB
“One of the best clubs I got involved with in my 4 years at Birmingham. Met so many interesting people and would truly recommend to anyone.”
James Horrex, Chemical Engineering (current student) – Transitioned into Athletics
“Cool Runnings was a fun and social way for me to get back into competitive running and come away with a newly found love for the sport.”
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