Groups – details of each group are provided in Val’s weekly email. Groups are based on approx. parkrun timings, which should roughly determine speed maintained by run leader. Usual distances would be: about 5 miles for Gentle Jog group, 6 miles for Slower Middle group, 6-7 miles for Faster Middle group, and 7-8 miles for Pacy group.
Routes – each week’s start location is listed on the website, and is announced by email a week in advance, with some different venues in summer and winter. Generally off-road in summer, and on roads and seafront in winter. Leaders can announce their planned route on the Hoppers’ Hub WhatsApp group ahead of time, or explain it to the group at the start.
Start – leaders to identify who is opting to run in their group and provide brief details of the route (in particular, distance and if hilly!). Leaders to do a head count before setting off.
Breaks – leaders should ‘regroup’ the runners at regular intervals and check everyone is still present and OK. The speed of the group, and how spaced out runners are, can determine the frequency of the regroups. If some runners are ahead of the leader, they should stay in view of the leader to ensure they follow the correct route and don’t become totally separated. They should be made aware of the next regroup point in advance.
Phones – Leaders should carry a charged mobile phone or ensure another member of the group has one.
Accidents – In the event of an accident to a group member, the leader should ensure all necessary support is provided. This includes, if appropriate, communicating issues to other groups or group members via text/ WhatsApp/ direct call, or worst-case scenario, summoning help from emergency services (this is why carrying a mobile phone is important).