ON THURSDAY evening, Harlow Running and Tri Club held a social run on to raise awareness around women’s safety when running, particularly during the darker months.

The event was held in support of England Athletics and the This Girl Can campaign, as part of the nationwide initiative “Let’s Lift the Curfew”, which encourages running clubs to come together and help women feel less restricted by the fear or dangers of running alone.

The run took place in Harlow Town Park and saw an incredible turnout, with over 70 people attending, a mix of current members and members of the public who decided to join us for the campaign.

A club spokesperson said: “With high-vis, torches and glow sticks, we ran through the streets of Harlow as a visible reminder that no one should have to feel unsafe while running.

“The atmosphere was incredible. Myself, Gail (Head Coach), and Andy (Men’s Captain) spent time speaking to the women who joined us for the first time, they all agreed how reassuring it felt to see so many people running together and how they no longer felt they had to run alone”.

Kate Dale, Director of This Girl Can, said: “Every year when the clocks go back, women everywhere see their world get smaller – not because they want to, but because they don’t feel safe going out after dark.

“Women’s safety continues to dominate headlines – an ever-present, stark reminder that this issue hasn’t gone away. 

“And these aren’t isolated stories; they reflect a daily reality that too many of us have accepted for too long. Let’s Lift the Curfew is our response to that: a collective stand that says ‘enough’.

“Women shouldn’t have to change their behaviour to stay safe; society should change the behaviours that make them feel unsafe. We’ll keep shouting about it until we see change and we want everyone to raise their voices with us. Because the more of us that speak out, the harder it is to ignore.”

The club spokesperson concluded: “We hope that by continuing to offer our friendly group runs, Harlow Running and Tri Club can play a part in helping women feel safer and more confident when out running.

“No one should ever feel their fun in exercise is limited because of safety. Our club is a community and together, we look out for each other!”