Nick Whitley – Founder & Chair of Clarence Runners

I started running back in 2015 with one very clear goal: to get in shape for my wedding photos! Before that, I kept fit as a professional dancer, but running was a whole new challenge (and one where I didn’t have to worry about remembering the choreography).

Fast forward a few years and I’ve somehow gone from short jogs to marathons, triathlons (yes, even the Iron-distance ones), and ultra runs of over 50k. Turns out I actually enjoy running up ridiculously big hills and getting muddy on the trails — who knew?

Along the way, I realised the best part of running isn’t just the medals, it’s the people. I love encouraging new runners and showing that you don’t have to be fast to enjoy it — you just need to start.

That’s why I set up Clarence Runners and later Clarence Parkrun: to create a friendly, fun, no-pressure space where everyone’s welcome (and no one gets left behind).

When I’m not running or planning routes, I’m usually chasing after my two girls, who provide just as much training as any ultra.