Meet the Worcester City Runs Ambassadors: Laura Pitt
Meet Laura Pitt, one of our Worcester City Runs Ambassadors for 2025. Laura works at Worcestershire County Council, where she’s taken her passion for running into the workplace by leading a new weekly lunchtime ‘Desk to 5K’ running club.
Laura’s first began running back in 2016 and loved the freedom it gave her, but like many, she took a break during the pandemic when her running club closed and routines changed.
Fast forward to 2023 and a new four-legged friend gave her the push she needed to get moving again. “I rescued a 14-month-old cocker spaniel, and we started walking lots, especially hilly walks on the Malvern Hills. That gradually led me back into running.”
Since restarting in January, Laura’s progress has been remarkable. She completed a Couch to 5K programme again in April and now runs three times a week. “I’m feeling the benefits already. I’ve got more energy, I sleep better, and it’s helped my riding too. I compete with my horses, and being fitter has made a big difference.”
She’s now looking forward to the 10K at the Wythall and Hollywood Fun Run in June, a key milestone ahead of her Worcester City Runs debut in September. Clearly, she’s well ahead of schedule.
Laura is now helping others take up running too! She’s completed the Leadership in Running Fitness course and now leads a weekly ‘Desk to 5K’ group at work. “It gets people away from their desks at lunchtime. It’s not just good for your body, it’s brilliant for your mind too. You feel free.”
She’s also joined a local running club and enjoys running socially with others around Worcester. “You’ve done 5K before you know it, without realising,” she says. “It’s such a good way to meet new people and discover new routes in your local area.”
Working with Worcester Physiotherapy Clinic was another key stage in her running journey. “I’d never been to a physio before, and it was a real eye-opener. I learnt a lot about strengthening my calves and improving flexibility. It’s helped me stay injury free and made a difference to how I run.”
Her goal for September? At first it was just to complete the Worcester City 10K. Now, having spoken with her Physio, she thinks she should aim for under an hour.
Laura’s Top Tips for the Worcester City 10K
- Set small goals: Breaking things down into milestones makes the big goal feel achievable.
- Warm up and cool down: It really helps prevent injuries and keeps you feeling good after a run.
- Enjoy the feeling: Running makes you feel free. That buzz afterwards is like nothing else.
- Make running social: Find a running group or start one! Every run becomes more enjoyable.
Laura’s story shows just how powerful a bit of motivation and community can be. She’s gone from restarting her running journey to inspiring others to do the same.
Feeling inspired? Join Laura and thousands of others at the Worcester City Runs on the weekend of 13-14 September. Whether it’s your first race of your fiftieth, there’s a place for everyone on the start line.
Book your place now at www.worcestercityrun.com.
