By Jane Coleman August 2026
Front Row, L to R: Unknown, Katie Jukes
Back Row, L to R: Janet Clift, Jane Coleman, Liz Coy, Suki Ali, Christine Wildhaber, Carole Lucas.
Brighton 10k, 1996, © Carole Lucas
When my partner and I moved to Stoke Newington we ran together in Clissold Park but soon decided we wanted to join a lesbian running club. Our friend Mary (Sista Mary!) told us about a run in Victoria Park followed by a meeting in the Duke of Welly, and that was it! Victoria Park Vixens was formed – runs, races, pub. This was a mixed running club and we wanted our own so we forwent a club room to run in Clissold Park, Lea Valley tow path and Hampstead Heath. Hackney Women Harriers was formed and led by our lovely President, Carole.
Very soon this became more than running three times a week. We started to race in London then branched out to all over the country. I personally didn’t race that much. I peaked in the Bath Half and after that was a regular supporter. Having cancer kept me from racing but I still enjoyed watching the London Marathon and Brighton Half, especially if it included us all staying in a Gay BnB!
I really enjoyed the social side of the club – the pub gatherings, Sunday morning cappuccinos at the Italian cafe on the Heath, house parties, karaoke and meals out. We also met up for Pride marches too. During Clause 28 it seemed more important than ever to stick together as lesbians. The ‘odd run’ in between was a lot of fun and we also supported each other through life’s trials and tribulations. It was only 10 years but we made lifelong friends and we share so many memories.
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