The new decade is officially upon us and your monthly dose of Talk of the Tribe has officially landed. Kicking off 2020 is Worcestershire based Malvern Buzzards. Formed less than two years ago, the club now consists of nearly 200 runners who meet every day for a mixture of tarmac and trail runs.

Alongside their passion for running, the club is committed to supporting their local community. “Community is the first word I’d use to describe the Malvern Buzzards,” says club member Paola: “We support the Malvern Hills Trust with regular litter picks. It’s important to reduce pollution for our beautiful landscape - we want to run in a clean area and set a good example!”

Taking full advantage of their envy-inducing location within the Malvern Hills AONB, the club spends their weekends exploring new routes across the hills. It’s this area that the club has chosen as their favourite route, a 20k circular run stretching across the sprawling Malvern Hills. 

Club welfare officer, Marc, tells us: “The run starts from the Clock Tower and covers the scenic paths across the Malvern Hills - Worcestershire Beacon provides brilliant views as the highest point of the Malvern Hills. It’s also ideal to split into shorter routes mid-week, making it achievable for everyone.”

Captain of the Joust Team, Jack, says: “To get the most out of this route in winter, you’ll need a decent base layer to keep you warm, high quality resistant socks to prevent blisters and a good head torch - it can be quite a muddy and slippery route so be prepared!”

“The Malvern Hills are stunning throughout the year,” continues Jack: “You can breathe fresh air and spot a huge variety of wildlife, while still challenging yourself. There are wells along the route, so you can fill your bottle with fresh water or drink straight from there!” Paola agrees: "I only ran on roads before joining the Buzzards, but thanks to them I’ve discovered the beauty of trail running and got huge improvements in my strength and speed.”

And finally, what is the key thing that makes for a successful run for the Malvern Buzzards? “I’d say always respect the environment you’re running in,” says Jack, while Marc suggests: “Don’t push yourself too hard when you’re going uphill and remember to enjoy the landscape around you.” Club member Tracy says: “Combining picturesque yet challenging terrain with a lovely bunch of people makes for the perfect run.”

If you’re looking for a running club in the Worcestershire area, you can find out more about Malvern Buzzards on their website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. 

Has your club recently discovered a new route in your local area? Maybe your club is aiming to be more sustainable? To get involved, please contact us at hello@tribesports.com for your chance to be featured next.

Photo credit: Paola Sestito