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Malvern Buzzards Runner at the Buzzards Barkley Marathon race

Flying high at Malvern Buzzards RC

The club held various events during the crisis including the Buzzards Barkley Marathon.

When thrown a curveball in the form of Covid-19, Malvern Buzzards Running Club struck back with a series of activities during the lockdowns and afterwards. Their Buzzards Barkley race was particularly successful.

Formed in 2016, this community focused club caters for runners of all abilities who take part in trail and road races across the country, from 10K to Ultra. Club runs are organised via Strava and there is plenty of encouragement and support for new members and the opportunity to pick up tips from more experienced members. 

On 23 March 2020 the country went into the first national lockdown and running clubs had to pause their training sessions until further notice. Many put their creative hats on and devised ways to keep their members motivated and in touch with each other that helped with their mental as well as physical health. 

Malvern Buzzards RC arranged a race colours weekend, committee litter pick, winter solstice run and Strava art during lockdown. Post-lockdown has seen a summer solstice run, 39 members running in the Bromyard Round the Downs race, 4 members in the Milton Keynes Marathon, one completing the Thames Path 100 Ultra and the restart of the ‘Thirsty Thursday’ run that finishes at the pub. There was a strength & conditioning class for members and Project 60 min 10K and 90 min Half Marathon.

Taking pride of place was the Buzzards Barkley Marathon on Saturday 23 May involving navigation skills as well as running. Using the Barkley Book and Map participants had 6 hours in which to bring back as many pages possible from 40 books that were hidden on the trails. They relaxed with hot drinks and food at the post-race barbecue. 

Local businesses played an important part in the event, providing maps and booklets, slate finishers medals, snacks and spot prizes. The organisers are aiming for the 2022 event to be bigger and better than before.

Malvern Buzzards RC have adapted and thrived throughout the crisis and are positive about the future.  

Image courtesy of Sarah Turner (Press Officer, Malvern Buzzards).

 

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