Rabsons Runners: Bringing the Joy of Running to the Local Community
A new community running group, Rabsons Runners, aims to put fun, friendship and fitness at the heart of local life. Founded by a long-time runner with a passion for encouraging others, Tony West, wants to provide an inclusive and non-competitive environment where everyone, from beginners to seasoned runners, can enjoy the many benefits of running together.
For Tony, running has been a personal passion for over 25 years. Now, he’s turning that experience into something bigger: a chance to share his love of the sport and its physical and mental rewards with others in the community.
“I’ve been running myself for 25 years and feel it’s time to share my love of running and its many benefits,” Tony says. “I want to encourage anyone, whatever their ability, to run in a fun, friendly and non-competitive environment.”
A Safe, Supportive and Welcoming Space
Sessions are designed to be social and accessible, offering an encouraging atmosphere where no one is left behind. The focus is not on speed or competition, but on movement, connection and enjoyment.
“It’s about showing people that running isn’t just for the super-fit, it’s for everyone,” explains Tony. “Whether you’ve never run before or you’re coming back after a break, you’ll find support and friendship here.”
Easy to Join
Booking a session is simple. Westies Rabsons Runners is listed on the RunTogether website, a national platform designed for people looking for safe, structured running groups in their area. Participants can sign up online, choose a session that fits their schedule and join a local network of supportive runners.
Rabsons Runners will meet once a week, on a Sunday outside South Reading Leisure Centre 4-5pm, starting on Sunday 2nd November 2025.
A True Community Connection
Tony is no stranger to the local area, spending much of his time supporting community sport. “My son plays football locally, so I already spend a lot of time at the facilities,” says Tony. “It made perfect sense to build something here that could bring more people together through fitness and friendship.”
For more information or to book a session, visit https://groups.runtogether.co.uk/WestiesRabsonsRunners RunTogether website and search for Rabsons Runners.
Fancy a Social?
South Reading Leisure Centre has hot drinks available to purchase after your run - the centre is open until 6pm on a Sunday.