West 4 Harriers

West 4 Harriers is a small and friendly athletic club located in Chiswick, London. The club welcomes individuals of all abilities, from beginners participating in parkruns to experienced ultra-marathon runners. Athletes at West 4 Harriers range in age from 18 to 60 plus, creating a diverse and inclusive community.

The athletic club has been recognised by local publications such as the Chiswick Herald and the Chiswick Calendar, demonstrating their active involvement in the community. Newcomers are encouraged to contact the club prior to joining their first run, ensuring that their details are recorded and that they receive a warm welcome upon arrival.

The club hosts three club nights each week, taking place on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. The meeting point is at Chiswick Cricket Club on Riverside Drive, conveniently situated near the river and Dukes Meadows. Monday nights offer an easy and sociable run covering a distance of 4–6 miles, providing prospective members with an opportunity to meet current members. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the club focuses on hill and speed training sessions, providing members with valuable opportunities to improve their athletic performance.

All running activities organised by West 4 Harriers take place in the local area, primarily on the towpath between Hammersmith and Kew or in Richmond Park during the summer months. During the winter, the club transitions to road running. Additionally, club members actively participate in races of varying distances both locally and internationally. Although there is no pressure to race, many new members find themselves caught up in the excitement and support of crossing the finish line with their fellow club mates.

Among the highlights of club events is a monthly club handicap race, featuring a 3-mile course in the summer and a 4-mile course in the winter. Furthermore, during winter, the club participates in the Surrey League Men's and Women's Cross Country League, providing an opportunity for members to engage in off-road running and score points for the club.

Prospective members are encouraged to attend a few runs with West 4 Harriers before making a commitment to join. The annual fee for membership is 35, providing access to a wide range of running and training opportunities throughout the year. For those wishing to race as a “West 4 Harrier” and be affiliated with the club, the annual fee increases to 52, which covers England Athletics membership. This additional fee grants members an EA number, which qualifies them for discounts on race entry fees and select running stores.

West 4 Harriers pride themselves on their involvement in cross country running. Specific information regarding the upcoming seasons can be found on the Men's and Ladies Cross Country pages on the club's website. The club maintains useful links to resources related to cross country running and athletics for the convenience of their members.

Overall, West 4 Harriers is a welcoming and inclusive athletic club in London, providing athletes with a supportive and friendly environment to pursue their running goals. With multiple weekly training sessions, numerous racing opportunities, and a vibrant sense of community, West 4 Harriers offers a compelling option for individuals seeking an athletic club experience.