info@claphampioneers.co.uk

What We’re About and Our History

What We’re About

  • We believe that running can improve peopleā€™s physical and mental health, and supports a healthy lifestyle.
  • We aim to provide a supportive environment that can help people improve their fitness and achieve their goals.
  • Provide a running club that can help people feel part of a community.
  • Ensure that people of all running abilities have access to a friendly and supportive club.
  • Be an integral part of our local community.
  • Help increase the number of people in the area who are passionate about running, and staying fit and healthy.
  • Support our members with their running and fitness goals.
  • Ensure all our members feel part of a supportive and enjoyable community club.

Our History

Clapham Pioneers set up in 2008 by Tim Slee, son of Ian Slee, a passionate runner who ran not to break records or be the fastest but for the love of running and inspiring others to do the same.

In 2007 Timā€™s father Ian set up the Looe Pioneers in his hometown in Cornwall. Tragically, Ian lost his life to a brain tumour and in tribute to their inspirational founder Looe Pioneers incorporated Ianā€™s initials in lower case into their club logo PiONEERs.

Tim set up the Clapham Pioneers running shop in 2010, and associated running club, in memory of his late father. Sadly, after a number of years of tough retail trading the Clapham Pioneers shop shut its doors in 2012. Clapham Pioneers running club continued on, and is now run by a group of volunteers, ensuring Ianā€™s legacy lives on in Clapham.

Clapham Pioneers in an entirely not-for-profit organisation and all membership fees and invested directly into the club and its members.

Watch out for our distinctive orange vests dashing around The Common, join us and help a legacy live on!