Spotlight Chat: Friends Worldwide.
Part and parcel of many running clubs nationally, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to meet new people, who overtime become friends and much loved members through the mutual love of the sport.
Over the last 18 months or so, we have had the company of some new friends who have found a place with us in Shropshire and Worcestershire from some far reaching but some sadly difficult circumstances.
We are in awe of their compassion, gratitude and positivity. And are certainly in awe of their unbelievable running talent and ambition.
At the time of writing it is noted that two of our friends have now recently moved onto pastures new, and we will be keeping in touching providing support where we can.
Michael, Yohannis, Dean and Radhwan, with the support of members Pauline and Chris and many others have been able to join us on lots of ParkRuns and a few running events proudly representing in club kit. Some other of their friends have also accompanied them on some ParkRuns to support and share out the coffees and cakes. They have been able to turn up to training runs with us, and meet most of the club at the summer get-to-gether resulting in them forming strong part of our running family.
All four of the guys have consistent ParkRun times, with Michael often coming in first place most weeks. They are comfortable sub 20 minute 5K runners and have so much untapped potential!!! Being a part of our ParkRun routine has provided positive mental health, physical health and of course the opportunity to learn from and expand their networks.
With the support of Chris, Pauline and Sallie we are able to share a bit of their story with you. And like many of us we are missing their beaming smiles (and amazing times) at ParkRun already.
“In the Summer of 2022, we were all aware of the asylum seekers being accommodated in the area. People have sought to escape wars, oppressive regimes and persecution of various forms since time immemorial.
I volunteered to help them in whatever way I could, and only a week or so later some friends (Jan and Maria) appeared at Parkrun with some young men. Michael had no knowledge of Parkrun. He ran in whatever clothes he had, and apparently stopped twice, and came 5 th…… I offered to introduce them to members of local running clubs, and have also helped with their improvement of English, and other things like confidence and self esteem.
Pauline and I went to speak to the guys and volunteers, and we learnt that Parkrun is pretty much perfect for them as a positive activity which is free (as they get an allowance of just a few pounds a week).
We introduced the guys to CMRC members and Wonkey Donkey AC in Kidderminster when they came to Parkrun, and I asked around for any spare kit. The running community have been brilliant support, donating running kit and shoes, and offering loads of other help and encouragement.
A number of the guys are from African countries, and came here with nothing except the clothes they wore. They often had little to do, and often suffered from frustration and anxiety, so running was a useful pastime to consider.
Even though many of them have been in the UK for a year or more, they are not allowed to work until notified of their ‘leave to remain’, but a number of the asylum seekers, not just those who come running, have done various things for charities and in voluntary work in communities, which is allowed, and some have recently been able to go to college.
No surprises then, that when they came to club sessions they enjoyed them and have become some of the fastest members at Parkrun and other events. They have also benefitted from being amongst wider society, getting used to our societies, and the change of cultures, and the chances to practice their English.
They have been keen to go to different and bigger runs, but until recently they had only been to one other Parkrun at Severn Valley. Yohannis has been to the Forest of Dean Half marathon, then recently the Cardiff Half Marathon, which he greatly enjoyed was was an amazing experience. But it can be a bit difficult for everyone (I have discovered) to get everything to ‘work’. With meal times, transport, the time available, costs, considerations of safeguarding of the guys and various other things such as clothing to suit our weather.
Most members will have had the chance to meet the guys, and they have made good friends amongst the running and Parkrun regulars. CMRC have been marvelous friends to the guys, and have helped in many, many ways.
I have been able to learn a bit about the other cultures and it hasn’t been difficult at all getting to know them, they are funny, helpful and good company. They really enjoy their time with running club, and are proud to be wearing club colours.
Recently, Michael, Dean and Yohannis were able to run at the same event at Bridgnorth – something that they really looked forward to. They came 5 th (Michael), 9 th (Dean), and 14 th (Yohannis). I know it was a special event for them, and they have passed on heartfelt thanks for the support and friendship that have found here.
Recently one of the members has had his letter notifying him of his ‘Leave to Remain’ from the Home Office. This is mixed news. In this situation the individual can remain in the UK for 5 years, and can look for work, but the letter states that they then have 28 day to leave their accommodation, with no assistance to find work, negotiate the necessary paperwork, deal with the meetings and interviews, and find somewhere to live.
But this doesn’t detract from the enjoyment that the young men have gained from being with CMRC.
I think it has been the highlight of the year for them, and I know that members enjoy their company and wish them well”.
Sallie Shaw.
From all of us at CMRC we wish you all the very best for the future and whatever it holds for you may it be exciting and full of love! Hopefully see you at a ParkRun again soon and you are always welcome.
“People will seldom remember what you’ve said to them, but they will never forget how you made them feel”.
Got a story to share, an unusual or new event planned? Want to be featured in the next edition of Spotlight Chat? Drop us a message on the socials and keep in touch……..
As ever folks thanks for your continued support and happy running!