Any new runners out there or have you recently moved to Cyprus? It can be difficult to start something new or find like-minded people to run with, especially in a new area, but look no further, West Coast Runners (WCR) will always give you a warm welcome. We are a small friendly club, all committed to enjoy running, we like to run anywhere from city streets to coastal paths and scenic mountain trails. Whatever your age or ability you will always find someone to run with and encourage you on your running journey. So, why don’t you come and join us on our weekly runs. We look forward to meeting you. See our Facebook page for the latest monthly schedule or contact Di on 97761015 or Gerry on 99926291 for more information.
The year has started relatively quiet relating to running events, however, Neil undertook his first Half Marathon of the year running for WCR.
Pervolia – Marathon/HM/10K, Pervolia, Larnaca:
The race took place on Sunday 25 January, Neil Bithell successfully completed the Half Marathon on a pleasant sunny morning in the village of Pervolia, it was the 29th edition of the Pervolia races. It was a fairly flat route with plenty of Marshals, arrows and water stations. Neil states that, “all was going well until surprisingly we turned at the 12km point, I was thinking it was going to be a different route back to the finish line, but this was not the case. It was another 12km back against a strong head wind, so we ran a 24km race. This was a bit of a shock to everybody and a challenging last 3km.” Neil and Karen had a pleasant weekend away. Well done Neil!
Cyprus Grand Prix – Strovolos HM/10K/5K, Strovolos, Nicosia:
Neil Bithell and Rita Leyland took part in the 2nd 10k race in a series of 5 Cyprus Grand Prix races at Strovolos on the 15 February. They were both carrying injuries, so no PB’s this time; even so they ran well and enjoyed the atmosphere. It was very hot and sunny for the time of the year. It was well organised with plenty of water and aid stations along the route. Plenty of refreshments afterwards, they also received a medal and a free tee-shirt. A good day was had by everyone and they are both looking forward to the next one. Well done Neil and Rita!
We are all looking forward to competing in a few big events, during the first quarter of 2026, firstly the TUI Cyprus Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k races which all take place on the 8 March. Once again, the 5k Sunset Run will be on Saturday 7 March commencing at 16.00 hrs. The TUI Cyprus Marathon is dedicated to the Marathon Legend, Stelios Kyriakides. We have several members training for these events and will be competing in the 5k, 10k, Half Marathon and Marathon.
Members of the club and family members also volunteer either for the Packing of the Goody Bags and giving them out to runners or as Marshals on the Marathon and the Sunset Routes. It is always challenging to provide the number of volunteers required due to the numbers of members taking part in the races, which in itself is excellent, but members of West Coast Walkers were up to the challenge! With several members, volunteering to undertake a Marshalling role on the Marathon Route. This is much appreciated!
Other events during this period which members are showing interest in are the Limassol Marathon Races, Run for Autism 5k/10k/HM and the Aphrodite 21k/10k/5k Races. It is the first time that a HM has been included in the Aphrodite races.
Monthly Handicap Series:
The Handicap commenced in January with the Base 5k Run which was well supported. There are 5 different events, such as, pace control and guess the distance, which are then repeated. It looks like there will be lots of friendly competition amongst members, vying for the coveted Handicap Trophy.
West Coast Runners on Tour:
Continuing our series of WCR on Tour, Eva Hughes headed over to the Cayman Islands to enjoy her Christmas holiday with the family. Eva has been a member of WCR since 2019 and regularly runs Parkruns in Doncaster. During her Stay in the Caymans Eva took part in the 5k Jingle Bell Run that is arranged as a fundraiser for the Cayman Islands Crisis Centre. The Cayman Islands Crisis Centre supports women and children who are affected by physical abuse in their homes. The sponsored run was on the 14 December, Eva’s son and grandson also took part. After the run there was a breakfast, raffle and participants received a goody bag. Around 400 people took part and it was well organised. Well done Eva. Let’s see where our members take us this year.
West Coast Walkers
Don’t forget we also have our walking group that meets every Monday morning. The walking group is increasingly popular and is open to anyone who enjoys walking, meeting like-minded individuals, experiencing walking along the coast and exploring in and around the Paphos area. We welcome all walkers whatever your ability, young and the not so young! There is something for everyone to enjoy. Please see the West Coast Walkers Facebook page for meeting places and start times.