Striders of Croydon is an athletic club based in Croydon, Surrey. The club can be found at the Sandilands clubhouse, conveniently located next to Lloyd Park. The club offers a range of activities and training sessions for runners of all abilities.
The main club run takes place on Wednesday evenings, starting at 7:30 pm. This run caters to all standards, and everyone is made welcome. To ensure inclusivity, the club has a long-standing policy of frequently turning back to pick up those running at the back of the pack. This allows runners to feel supported and ensures that no one will be left behind.
In addition to the main club run, there are other training options available. On Sundays, there is a run at 8:30 am, with the choice of a 60-minute or 90-minute option. Usually, there are two pace groups, but occasionally a third group is formed, depending on the availability of run leaders. Runners are encouraged to keep an eye on their emails for more details on the Sunday runs.
For those interested in speed training, Tuesday evenings offer speed sessions. This provides an opportunity for runners to work on their speed and improve their performance. Additionally, there is a social run on Fridays, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for runners to enjoy their training.
Striders of Croydon encourages new members to join the club and offers a trial run for those who would like to try a few runs before committing. To book onto a trial run, individuals are asked to contact the club in advance via email.
In terms of events, the club participates in various races, including cross country races, the Croydon Half Marathon, the Switchback 5, the Men's and Women's Surrey League, and the Surrey Road League. The club also competes in track and field events and has a team in the Southern League. Striders of Croydon also organises the annual Owen Trophy and Sandilands Cup events.
The club keeps its members informed through its website and social media platforms. Regular updates are posted on the website, including race reports, club records, rankings, and the training schedule. The website also provides information about the club's history, how to find the clubhouse, and how to join. Those interested in joining can fill out a membership form and find details about subs and renewals.
Overall, Striders of Croydon is a welcoming and inclusive running club in Croydon, providing training and support for runners of all abilities. With a range of training options and participation in various races and events, the club offers something for every runner.