Introduction

People often ask me how Rise and Shine Runners came about—and, even more often, they ask how “good” a runner you need to be to join!

To clear up a few things straight away:

• No, I haven’t fallen out with Scarborough Athletic Club.
• No, we’re not part of Andy’s Man Club.
• And no, you definitely don’t need to run 5k in a “decent” time to come along!

The truth is simple: I just love running. As I’ve got older (and, yes, a little slower), I’ve discovered something even better than chasing my own times—helping other people discover running for themselves. There’s something deeply rewarding about seeing someone’s confidence grow with every step. That’s what this group is all about.

The Early Bird Run Crew Story

The roots of Rise and Shine Runners actually lie with the Early Bird Run Crew (EBRC), a community-based running initiative started in Harrogate in 2019 by Ben Davis.

Ben had completed a gruelling 500-mile charity run, and afterwards wanted to create something that combined three powerful things: movement, connection, and positive mental health. That’s how EBRC was born—an early-morning running crew for people of all abilities.

It didn’t take long for EBRC to spread beyond Harrogate, growing into a movement of people who got up, got out, and started their day with purpose.

When Ben’s 500-mile route brought him through Scarborough, he saw the perfect opportunity to expand. He reached out to Andy’s Man Club, knowing there was already a strong focus on mental wellbeing in the town. I was both a facilitator with AMC and a keen runner, so when the idea came up, I immediately volunteered to help get EBRC Scarborough off the ground.

My Running Journey

My own running story began back in 2006, when I nervously lined up for my first Great North Run. I loved it so much I haven’t missed a single one since.

The following year, I joined Scarborough Athletic Club (SAC). For well over a decade, SAC was a huge part of my life: weekly runs, committee roles, leading groups, and—most importantly—friendships that will last a lifetime.

But life changes. Andy’s Man Club meets on Monday nights, which clashed with SAC training. Then, just five weeks later, the first lockdown arrived and everything shifted again. As a Run Leader, I couldn’t just “tag along” anymore—I had to commit to leading a group of six, or not run at all. Around that same time, Cooper the rescue Labrador joined the family, demanding long walks and plenty of attention!

Add in retirement, a growing preference for morning runs, and the changing rhythms of life, and gradually my SAC attendance declined. My love for the club never has—but I found myself ready for something new.

EBRC Scarborough

On Friday 30 August 2024, the Scarborough branch of EBRC set off on its very first run. Thirteen of us gathered at The Sands, ran along the seafront, and turned around at what’s now become something of a landmark for us: the Rock Shop at the Harbour.

At first, we averaged around 10–20 runners. Then we added Monday mornings into the mix, and soon we were welcoming 25 or more. But what made it special wasn’t just the running—it was the community that formed around it. Post-run coffees, shared stories, encouragement when someone was struggling, and laughter that made 6:30am starts worth it.

Before long, a few of us who were helping to lead realised that if we had our own independence, we could take things even further—our own kit, extra runs, special events, and the flexibility to grow in ways that best served our local community.

And so, in July 2025, Rise and Shine Runners was born.

Rise and Shine Runners

We officially launched on 7 July 2025, carrying forward everything we’d loved about EBRC and giving it a fresh new identity.

The response has been nothing short of amazing. By mid-August, we were regularly welcoming around 50 runners every week.

We now have our own distinctive kit—made possible by our brilliant sponsors: Taylor’s Bar and Kitchen, Saint Cecilia’s Care Group, and The Craft Bar—and it’s been fantastic to see so many runners wearing it with pride.

We’ve also registered as a Community Interest Company (CIC), which means we’re a not-for-profit community organisation, fully focused on giving back. I’m joined by nine brilliant fellow directors, and our very first board meeting is just around the corner. Together, we’re brimming with ideas for how to grow Rise and Shine Runners into something even more special.

The best part? Our mission is simple: to share the joy and mental health benefits of running with as many people as possible.

When and Where We Run

Here’s what’s happening right now:

• Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 6:30am
• Meeting Point: The Sands, outside Taylor’s Bar and Kitchen
• Distance: Around 5k along the Drive
• Afterwards: Coffee at Me’N’U (Fridays only, as they’re closed Mondays)

We run an out-and-back route, which makes it flexible. You can turn around earlier, walk sections, or take it entirely at your own pace. The golden rule is this: nobody is ever left behind. Ever.

Our Promise

We want to be the most inclusive and welcoming running group possible. If you don’t feel that includes you, please tell us—so we can make sure it does. Everyone deserves a space where they feel supported, encouraged, and part of the community.

And Finally…

Just go for a run.

It’s not always easy—but it’s always worth it. Running can lift your mood, clear your head, and remind you what your body is capable of.

So whether you run alone, with Scarborough Athletic Club, a Run Together group, your gym’s running club, a local Parkrun—or, of course, with us at Rise and Shine Runners—just lace up and step out the door.

Better still, try them all. The more you run, the more you’ll find what works for you.

See you on the seafront.

— Shaun Tymon