Jonathan began running in February 2020 after a friend invited him to the Shepton Mallet Parkrun, and he quickly got hooked. He then joined Wells City Harriers in March 2023, enjoying racing various distances up to half marathons, and cherished experiences like cheering at the London Marathon, running in Budapest, and organising the Wells Festival of Running.
Jonathan Williams
The London Vitality 10K, 2023
Interview - July 2024
When did you start running/what got you into running?
In February 2020 a friend asked me along to Shepton Mallet Parkrun. I hadn’t run since my school days but decided to give it a go. I struggled my way round in around 35 minutes in a pair of tracksuit bottoms and some old Reebok trainers from the 90’s I found in the back of the cupboard. I was instantly hooked, and when lockdown kicked in a few weeks later I had plenty of time to get started on my new running journey.
How long have you been a member of Wells City Harriers for?
I joined Wells City Harriers in March 2023.
What runs do you enjoy the best?
I still have a real fondness for Parkrun and rarely miss a Saturday morning. You can make Parkrun whatever you want it to be, an easy jog or an all-out 5k time trial. I often don a pacers bib at Shepton and really enjoy helping people achieve a new PB.
What distance races did you enjoy running?
So far, I’ve concentrated on 5k,10k and HM distance. I’ve yet to attempt a marathon, the thought of all the training required is daunting. I’m turning 50 later this year and I’ve set myself the target of attempting one in my half century year.
Are there any standout moments during your time at Wells City Harriers? (for yourself or other members?)
The clear winner was being in the crowd at the London Marathon cheering on club members as they came past us. The atmosphere was electric, and although I’d been several times before to watch, it was another level of excitement to see my fellow club members who I’d seen train so hard, out there smashing their goals.
Where is the best place you have run?
I’m lucky enough to travel quite a bit for work and pleasure and always try to run whenever I’m away from home. I have fond memories of running the streets of Budapest at dawn on a beautiful cloudless morning. There is an island in the middle of the Danube that has a 3k purpose made running track around the edge with fabulous views of the city. That was a memorable run for me.
Do/Did you participate in any other sports?
I’ve been heavily involved in caving and cave-diving for the past 30 years. Surprisingly there are a number of similarities between running and caving, not least the ability to push on when things get physically and psychologically tough. Caving was also great training for cross country racing as being exhausted, cold, wet and muddy was already something I was well used to!
Did you have a preferred running brand?
Not really. I’m always keen for a bargain so tend to look at shoes and kit that are on special offer regardless of the brand.
What is your greatest running achievement?
Running the Bath Half Marathon earlier this year for sure. It was the first race I entered which I set myself a goal to aim for rather than just turning up and trying my best on the day. Nick Stevens and I followed the same training plan and lined up on the day with the same goal foremost in our minds. I was thrilled to finish 1 second under my goal time of 1:29:30, with Nick a just few seconds behind.
Bath Half Post Race, March 2024
You were part of the team that organised the 2024 Wells Festival of Running. What's it like being involved with an iconic race in the area?
It was great to work with such a great team of people to achieve a shared goal. There is a huge amount of work and responsibility involved, especially for the Race Director, which I hadn’t fully appreciated before. The event was a great success on the day, even the sun came out. It was motivating to see so many runners out on the course giving it their best shot.
Will you be involved with the 2025 race?
I’m always keen to do my bit, so if the organising team will have me back, I’ll be happy to help.
You have participated in many of the Somerset Series races in the past. What do you enjoy about racing locally?
I don’t think it matters whether it’s a big national race or a local 5k. For me, as a newcomer to racing, that feeling of standing on the start line full of expectation is still exciting. Since joining the Harriers I feel especially proud to race in my club vest.
Post Race Babcary 7.5 Mile, February 2024
What are your future plans for running?
After picking up an injury this spring I’m slowly building back up to full strength and am concentrating on my 5k time for the Street Series of races later this year. I’m also looking forward to representing the Harriers in the Gwent League again this winter, despite all the mud.
Gwent League, Pont-y-Pwl, March 2024
Why Wells City Harriers?
It’s great to be in a club with such a diverse range of runners. There really is something for all abilities. I’ll never be able to compete at the top level but the support and encouragement I’ve received from the club in my first 18 months of membership has been overwhelming. I’ve made many new friends along the way and hope to continue as a member for years to come.
To view Jonathan's performances, visit his 'Power of 10' and 'Run Britain' profiles, by clicking on the images below.
Missed an interview? Click on the links below to Meet another Harrier.
Graham Goldsmid - January 2024
Sophie Nicholls - December 2023