How We Got Started
In 2013 The Great Run Company set up Great Run Local as a way of getting people active with fun very much at the forefront of the project, slowly GRL was set up in various locations across the country.
In 2015 it was decided to set up a GRL in Portsmouth and we were both asked if we would lead the set up and deliver a free volunteer led weekly event. On 16th August 2015 we launched the first run from Hilsea lido on a bright sunny day. For the first run we had 36 runners which we were pleased with, gradually over the coming months the numbers steadily grew with the help of Facebook but mainly word of mouth.
People enjoy the friendly non-competitive atmosphere and having a choice of either the 2k or 5K routes. Some found the 2K very useful to slowly build up their fitness, but it was more than that people made friends with other runners and we had all ages and abilities taking part over the fully marshalled course.
We have had several Couch to 5K join us and continue running after they graduated. The other benefit was people’s mental health as they had found somewhere that speed was not important walking from the start was encouraged.
The number of participants grew steadily and the sense of community was very evident with everyone encouraging each other and all playing their part in making it accessible for everyone to enjoy and look forward to.
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Our Mission
Run Walk Local Portsmouth Is for people of all ages & abilities to be able to take regular free exercise at whatever pace they decide in an atmosphere where friendships are made and nobody is excluded.
Our Events
Run Walk Local Portsmouth is a weekly free activity. The comment we hear time and again is “what a lovely supportive atmosphere and everyone is so friendly”.
We aim to make every week a community atmosphere where people feel comfortable in whatever they choose to do.
