Getting to know… Claire Chamley – Edition 12 
We’re back on the roads for this edition — meet Claire Chamley, proof that joining an athletics club doesn’t have to start with elite times or big ambitions. Sometimes it starts with a lockdown run group, a friendly nudge… and an ice cream van. 
“Since joining Woking AC, I’ve had a go at road racing, track and cross country. My favourite is definitely the road — usually a 5k or 10k. I didn’t start running until my mid-20s and joined a local social running group after lockdown. That was where I eventually met the legendary James McCloud, who suggested I come down for a taster training session. After a bit of encouragement, I went along and haven’t looked back since. I was initially really nervous and didn’t think I was good enough to be part of an athletics club, but everyone was so welcoming and I signed up almost straight away!” 
Since then, athletics has given Claire far more than fitness.
“Whether it’s pushing through a tough track session or a hard race, I’ve learnt that I can keep going even when I want to give up — and prove to myself that I can do hard things (and actually enjoy it along the way!).” 
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“I can do hard things.”
Sometimes a simple line says it best — and we think Claire might have just summed up what running really gives you:
an inner strength you didn’t know you had.
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“This is definitely helped by the amazing team — it doesn’t matter if you’re on the podium, getting a PB or just trying your best to finish a race, everyone cheers you on and celebrates your achievements.”
Post-race tradition? Simple: ice cream first, analysis later.
“After a race, I normally make a beeline for the ice cream van, followed by a debrief with husband Fraser and my fellow teammates.” 
Her proudest moment came last season.
“Coming second senior lady overall in the 2024 Surrey Road League and then winning the Senior Ladies Road Running award at the Woking AC awards. I’m definitely not the fastest in the club, but I always try to turn up to races and give it my all. It was so nice to have my personal achievements, commitment and consistency recognised. I proudly show my award to all friends and family that come to our house!” 
And when she’s not out running?
“Probably not a ‘fun fact’, but the other hobby I picked up during lockdown is cross stitch. I’m currently on my third project as each one takes me about two years! I just find it a nice way to relax on a Sunday afternoon — usually after a Sunday morning long run!” 
(Editor’s note: Claire’s story captures what running gives so many of us — confidence, resilience, and the quiet pride of knowing you can do hard things. We’ll let “legendary” James McCloud have his right of reply in a future edition.)