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Written by Kathryn Langan with contributions from Simon Lockers speech.
I was very privileged to be invited to ORCs 10 year anniversary and awards night on Saturday 18th January at the Branston Country Club.
From the moment I arrived, I was made to feel welcome and part of the club. Pre-dinner drinks were offered and snacks were provided via a tasty sweet shop.
Not before long I bumped into Stephen and Justin… I hardly recognised them out of their running clothes, they scrub up so well!
I had not met Simon before, so it was nice to have a chat with him and get to know him a bit better. We were discussing how ORC grew into such a big club. Simon then explained how it all started.
Simon had always kept fit whilst serving in the Marines and wanted to continue this when he was at home. Not fancying running alone, Simon decided to put a message out on Facebook on 4th January 2015.
“Hi all, I was just wondering if Overseal had any running clubs or if anyone would like to start running on a Sunday morning? All levels welcome, it's just an idea, let me know if you're interested as running is always better as a group”
Five people responded and turned up for that first run and one of the original members, Amanda Chandler, was there that evening. Celebrating 10 years with ORC and being the first ever female run leader for the club.
We were then all invited to take our seats to listen to the opening address from Simon, the Founder and Treasurer of Overseal Running Club.
Simon gave a very heart felt and inspirational speech, recognising everything that this club has achieved and become over the past 10 years.
It was lovely to hear how Jog Derbyshire had helped so much in those early days and how our ethos of promoting getting active outdoors and being inclusive was inline with the missions of ORC.
I’d like to fill you in on some of the amazing things this club has achieved over 10 years.
Participated in 1560 club sessions
Run in over 100 marathons and half marathons
Collectively run 498,000 miles (equivalent of going to the moon and back)
As a club raised over £100,000 for charity.
Raised money through the Gunby Gallop and Angels along the Trent
Supported the community with bucket collections and coffee mornings.
At the Great North Run last year, around 18 people, raised over £10,000 for different charities.
After the meal. We had a bit of fun with a quiz put together by Justin, called ‘Runner or Not Runner’, this was absolutely hilarious and set the mood for the rest of the evening.
We then went onto the very moving award ceremony, presented by Justin, where we heard inspirational stories from all the award winners. I’d like to congratulate everyone that received an award that night.
· Simon Locker – Appreciation Award for 10 years Dedication to ORC
· Justin Kirkham – Special Recognition Award for Unwavering Dedication to ORC
· Dave Rosser – Most Improved Male
· Joanne Lockley – Most Improved Female
· Marie Kirkham – Most Inspirational Runner & Above and Beyond
· Julie Vince – Runner of The Year
Finally, everyone put on their dancing (running) shoes and danced the night away.
They have a very dedicated committee at ORC, Simon Locker, Justin and Marie Kirkham, Stephen Turner, Wayne and Jane Pycroft, Laura Trig, Troody Howman, Stephanie Traynor, Andy Burton, Adie Kirkham, and Matt Davies.
I’d like to congratulate the committee and Overseal Running Club on everything that they’ve achieved over these past 10 years, this is exactly what Jog Derbyshire is all about - delivering safe, enjoyable and engaging sessions. Let’s see what the next 10 years brings…
I can’t think of a better way to finish off this article, other than using Simon’s own words.
“Overseal Running Club is more than just a space to run; it’s a community rooted in support, friendship, and a shared purpose.
Whether you’re an experienced runner or just starting out, this club has always been a place where everyone is welcomed with open arms.
It’s about encouragement, pushing each other to reach new heights and celebrating every step forward, no matter how big or small.
For so many members, this club has become a lifeline, a means to relieve stress, clear the mind, and enhance well-being, both physically and mentally.
The friendships we build here are strong, and the bond we share creates something far greater than just a group of runners.
It forms a legacy of perseverance, community, and inspiration that will echo well into the future.”
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