Our story
Kirkby Milers AC began life in December 2014, starting out with just the two runners, James Warburton and Kevin Fisher. Originally named after a mile stretch of local pubs known locally as 'The Kirkby Mile' due to a love of socialising as well as running. Almost immediately they were joined by a couple of other local runners to enjoy running with no pressure, no elitism and most importantly have fun, something that is still at the core of the Milers to this day.
Quite quickly we found our group grew and we decided to host a weekly track session where we welcomed the experienced and fully qualified UKA coaches to the club. With the help of Paul and Claire Cope we decided to try a new format and host a family orientated track session, allowing parents to train alongside their children which helps create a family atmosphere. We try our very best to make athletics accessible to children, families and all abilities to give them the opportunity to stay active, grow in confidence and develop their personal skills. Word quickly spread and we now regularly have over 150 athletes spread across 3 adult groups and 2 junior groups on a Wednesday. Official club nights are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which are complemented by various organised group runs ran most days of the week. We compete in road running, cross country and athletics so there is something for all who come along.
You have probably seen us at most local events where we have been labelled as Kirkby Smilers due to all of our athletes being photographed with massive smiles on their faces. This is complimented by our amazing cheering squad and the support from our non runners. Our unique approach and friendly atmosphere led to us being nominated and winning the very first Club of the Year Award in the 2015 BTR Community Awards, beating clubs with over 30 years history and experience. This was followed up by winning the award for the second time in 2016.
If this sounds like the club for you then pop along to one of our sessions for a taster and warm welcome, we promise you will not be disappointed.
Quite quickly we found our group grew and we decided to host a weekly track session where we welcomed the experienced and fully qualified UKA coaches to the club. With the help of Paul and Claire Cope we decided to try a new format and host a family orientated track session, allowing parents to train alongside their children which helps create a family atmosphere. We try our very best to make athletics accessible to children, families and all abilities to give them the opportunity to stay active, grow in confidence and develop their personal skills. Word quickly spread and we now regularly have over 150 athletes spread across 3 adult groups and 2 junior groups on a Wednesday. Official club nights are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which are complemented by various organised group runs ran most days of the week. We compete in road running, cross country and athletics so there is something for all who come along.
You have probably seen us at most local events where we have been labelled as Kirkby Smilers due to all of our athletes being photographed with massive smiles on their faces. This is complimented by our amazing cheering squad and the support from our non runners. Our unique approach and friendly atmosphere led to us being nominated and winning the very first Club of the Year Award in the 2015 BTR Community Awards, beating clubs with over 30 years history and experience. This was followed up by winning the award for the second time in 2016.
If this sounds like the club for you then pop along to one of our sessions for a taster and warm welcome, we promise you will not be disappointed.
