By Georgia Garnett

Southwark Athletics Club enjoyed a strong start to the cross country season at the inaugural Metropolitan Cross Country League meet of 2024-25.

Yemane Gdey led the way for the men with his 46th place finish while Megan Catley-Davies took first place for the women with a 38th place finish.

Club chairman Mat Barber said: “It was a really good run, we had a great turnout with both a women’s team and a men’s team and it’s just going from here on out.

The club sit third in the Metropolitan Cross Country League men’s and women’s senior second divisions following the first race of the campaign at Claybury, north-east London, earlier this month.

Barber explained how the club attracted new athletes.

“We’ve been able to adapt to allow everyone to participate, no matter their abilities, we’ve worked really hard to make sure we’re welcoming to people,” Barber said.

“The track is a great, safe environment to really push yourself, so I really think we are a serious but friendly club at the same time.”

The club, which trains at Southwark Athletic Park in Surrey Quays, provides training and competition opportunities in cross-country running, sprints, jumping and throwing for athletes of all abilities.

They pride themselves on being a welcome space for all, regardless of their sporting abilities.

The club moved from London City Athletics to Southwark Athletics last autumn in order to have an identity that better represents the community it serves.

Barber added: “People see London City and it’s not clear where London City is – it’s not about the people who are actually in the area.

“We train at the Southwark athletics track at Southwark Park and many members live in Southwark.

“Emotionally we just feel more connected to it, it’s just that connection to the place that we thought we needed to highlight.”

The club remains open to new members, with taster sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm for £6.

Barber said: “Don’t let the fact that we’re an athletic club discourage you, don’t let the fact that we’re on the right track discourage you.

“We are open to everyone, regardless of age or ability, and they will find several people of equal ability with whom they can work and improve.

“That’s one of the key things about joining a club: you grow with other people rather than being alone.”

You can find out more about Southwark Athletics Club on their website and follow them Instagram @southwarkac.