The Carn Runners Christmas Party and Annual Awards Night proved to be a brilliant way to round off the year, bringing members together to celebrate not only another busy season of running but also the people who make the club what it is.
Held on Saturday evening, the event was a great success from start to finish. The atmosphere was relaxed, festive, and full of laughter — exactly what a club celebration should be. From the moment people arrived, it was clear the night was going to be a memorable one.
The food was excellent and very plentiful, keeping everyone well fuelled for the evening ahead, while the DJ kept the dancefloor busy and the drinks were certainly flowing. It was fantastic to see runners from across all groups enjoying time together away from training shoes and head torches, catching up, sharing stories, and celebrating the year’s achievements.
A huge thank you goes to everyone who helped organise and support the event, ensuring it ran so smoothly. These evenings don’t happen by accident, and they’re a reflection of the same teamwork and commitment that keeps Carn Runners thriving week in, week out.
Of course, the highlight of the evening was the presentation of the annual club awards, recognising effort, improvement, dedication, and the often unseen work that keeps the club moving forward. Every award reflected not just performances on the road or trail, but also the values that define Carn Runners — support, consistency, and community.
Here is a summary of this year’s well-deserved award winners:
🏆 Outstanding Achievement
• Steve Webb
🏆 Runner’s Runner
• Dawn Scallan
🏆 Most Improved Runner
• Tony Chapman
🏆 Club Person (Carnie) of the Year
• Janet Ritchie
🌟 Newcomer Awards
• Ricky Birch
• Rosie Chinn
• Antony Morvan
• Pam Nolan
🚀 Running Up Awards (for moving up a speed group)
• Rosie Chinn
• Susan Mercer
• Zoe Webb
• Charmaine White
📈 Step Up Award
• Mike Bawden — for stepping up as a run leader and committee member
🌬️ Golden Whistle Award
• Jan Watson and Sarah Choak — for their hard work as track session coaches
💻 In The Loop Award
• Gavin Pedley — for going the extra mile to improve the club website and social media presence
🩹 Kiss The Pavement Award
• Tony Chapman — for his spectacular fall at The Granite Way race earlier in the year
A special award was also presented to Janet Ritchie, marking an incredible milestone — her upcoming 550th race wearing a Carn Runners vest. A remarkable achievement and a testament to years of dedication, consistency, and love for the sport.
Congratulations to all the award winners — every one of them thoroughly deserved. And to everyone who came along, supported the night, or contributed behind the scenes, thank you. Events like this remind us that Carn Runners is about far more than just running — it’s about shared experiences, mutual support, and celebrating each other’s successes.
Here’s to another great year ahead. 💛💙
