Each week, we shine a light on one runner from the FLOCK community. Our members come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds, goals, and levels of experience, and that is exactly what makes this trail running community so special.

Tell us your name and a little about yourself?

I’m Scott, a Level 4 member of FLOCK. I first fell in love with the outdoors through hiking, climbing, and mountain biking. I’ve always struggled with self-image, my mental health, and a lack of belief in what I can achieve, but getting into running has been a huge part of changing that perspective.

​How long have you been trail running with us?

I’ve been a member for about six weeks now.

​What is your running background?

I’ve been running for five years. My brother, Andrew, introduced me to the running side of the outdoors after his 40th birthday and a trip to Chamonix. He went through a tough time back then, which led him to question his lifestyle, and his shift in perspective rubbed off on me. When I first started, I was seriously overweight and struggled to run even 100 meters. However, I persevered, drawing inspiration from my family and YouTube channels like Run 4 Adventure. Since then, I’ve achieved things I once thought were impossible, including the North Downs 50k, the Serpents Trail 100k, and 65k of the Lakeland Trails.

​How did you feel before your 1st FLOCK run?

I was definitely nervous. Mainly because there were new people, and I was worried about fitting in and where my running level would sit within the group.

​Were you nervous about anything when starting trail running?

My main worry was my pace. Although I can run far and do ultra distances, I’m not very quick, so I was anxious about how that would translate in a group setting.

​What has been your biggest challenge so far in your running journey?

I’ll be honest—I’m not in a “perfect” place yet. My biggest challenge is that I am still carrying extra weight and working through old habits. However, I am currently restructuring my approach to running, focusing on becoming quicker and more efficient as I move forward.

​What are you most proud of since joining FLOCK?

It has kept me accountable. Even without speaking to anyone directly about it, surrounding myself with positive, like-minded people at all different stages of their running journey puts everything into perspective and has encouraged me to let those old, bad habits go.

​How has your confidence changed over time on the trails?

It’s growing all the time. I’m picking up and learning little bits from everyone in regards to technique, which really helps.

​What do you enjoy most about being a part of our trail running community?

How friendly everyone is! Flying solo is rewarding, but being part of the Flock is what turns a lonely pursuit into a shared purpose.

​Do you have a favourite trail running memory, route, or moment?

I don’t have one particular favourite moment yet, but I love learning new trails. I like to think of it as expanding my horizons.

Flying solo is rewarding, but being part of the Flock is what turns a lonely pursuit into a shared purpose.

QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS

• Early run or evening run? – Morning runner
• Hills or flatter trails? – Prefer hills (gives me an excuse for a walking break 😉)
• Favourite season to run? – Spring & Autumn
• Go-to post run treat? – The Cadence Cafe in Cocking does an amazing avocado and feta on sourdough 👍🏻👍🏻
• One word to describe FLOCK? – Amazing!

What would you say to somebody that is considering running with FLOCK?

“If you are new to running or have been doing it for years, come and join some amazing people, running on the best trails in the South Downs National Park 👍🏻. You don’t know what you are capable of until you try it. “