Our Leaders
Erika Fitzgibbon
Why / how did you get into running?
I was diagnosed with osteoporosis and put on medication to help with this in my early 50s. To also do something to strengthen my bones, I started jogging and joined a group from the women’s running network, but the group leader gave up and the group soon disbanded. After training to be a running coach I re-started the group. Unfortunately, we were let down by ‘the women’s running network’, the umbrella organisation. This is when I got together with some other ladies and founded Women Running Penarth. That was in May 2011. I love introducing ladies to running and especially doing the beginners courses.
What is your biggest running achievement?
My biggest running achievement has been completing the 6 Marathon Majors in 2024 despite needing 2 hip replacements during the pandemic.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
Run occasionally without a sports watch, just for the enjoyment of it.
Debi Richards
Why / how did you get into running?
I first got into running through a Couch to 5K programme, and from there my love of the sport grew.
What is your history with WRP?
I joined Women Running Penarth in July 2018 and have been an active member ever since, stepping into a leadership role in March 2020. In October 2023, I proudly took over as Chair of the club.
Which runs do you lead at WRP?
I currently lead the Wednesday Evening and Friday Earlybirds sessions, which I love for the mix of energy, support, and camaraderie they bring.
What is your biggest running achievement?
My biggest running achievements so far are completing the London Marathon and the Vale Ultra – two very different but equally rewarding challenges.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
When it comes to training, I believe balance is key. My number one tip is: listen to your body – a rest day is as good as a run.
Sue Lazarus
Why / how did you get into running?
Started running 2011 with my husband who was very patient with me. I was never
the sporty type, always the one finding excuses not to exercise, but something
clicked and I fell in love with running.
What is your history with WRP?
I used to watch this group of ladies in blue tops running past my office window,
chatting and laughing, looking like they were having a good time, that’s how I found
Women Running Penarth and began my running journey. I joined in September
2012, becoming a leader in November 2015, leading beginners, club sessions and
long runs, and Deputy Chair in October 2023.
Which runs do you lead at WRP?
I currently lead the Intermediates group on a Thursday Evening – a fantastic group of
ladies who inspire me every week.
What is your biggest running achievement?
Running the London Marathon in 2016, was a huge milestone, Since then I have
completed various marathons, an ultra-marathon and earlier this year I celebrated
my 60th Half Marathon just before my 60 th Birthday.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
Fuel your Performance – Think of food as fuel – lean proteins, whole grains, colourful
veggies, healthy fats and plenty of hydration. It makes a big difference in recovery
and overall performance.
Sarah Wymer
Why / how did you get into running?
I’ve been running on and off for about 20 years. There wasn’t a big life changing moment – it started gradually and in a fairly haphazard way. From what I could see it looked like a good way of keeping fit as it’s relatively inexpensive, easy to get started and could slot neatly into a busy life. Since joining the club I’ve got more interested, committed and now find myself signing up for events and scrolling through websites for running bits and bobs. At times life just gets in the way and I take a break but it’s always lovely to get running again.
What is your history with WRP?
I joined soon after we moved to Penarth in 2016. I wanted to put down some roots, put a bit more structure around my running, meet like minded people and make new friends. I completed the Welsh Athletics Leadership in Running training in December 2020. Not the best timing!
What is your biggest running achievement?
It’s so hard to choose – they’re all special in their own way. I love the excitement, crowds and enthusiastic support of the big events. I loved Swansea Half – it’s so pretty (and flat!) and I was a student there. Cardiff Half was wonderful as it’s home and there’s lots of support from family and friends. Complety different was the Castle to Castle in aid of Velindre. It’s 11 miles along the Taff Trail between Caerphilly and Cardiff Castles. Like me, I imagine everyone running had their own Velindre story –it was a privilege to be running and raising money for the hospital but it felt bitter sweet too. The route was really pretty, the WRP girls popped up along the way to support me and Alison Dacey, and Patrick was waiting for me at the end. It’s a lovely memory.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
If it’s feeling too much break the distance down into manageable chunks – step by step, the next lamppost, another mile, the next water station. I’ve found this works well in other areas of life too.
Claire Mott
Why / how did you get into running?
In 2022 I joined WRP beginners course as a New Year’s resolution to finally complete a 5K parkrun. Running never came naturally — I was inconsistent and often injured — but the beginners’ group changed everything. I caught the running bug, made amazing friends, and found a truly supportive network.
What is your biggest running achievement?
I went from completing my first parkrun to the Run 4 Wales 10K series to the Cardiff Half in my 1st year. I have continued to enter races both locally and further afield , and now I’m close to completing the SuperHalfs in 2026. In February 2024, I became a WRP running leader to help others on their journey too.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
Race-day fuel tip: peanut butter — perfect with porridge or in a Nutella sandwich!
Claire S-H
Why / how did you get into running?
Having been someone who “didn’t run” and clocking up many failed attempts to get running, I finally learnt how to run four years ago.
What is your history with WRP?
I joined the wonderful “Women Running Penarth (WRP)” with the aim of running a half marathon before I hit 60. Since achieving that milestone at the Cardiff Half, I have continued to run 10ks and half marathons, as well as becoming a Run Leader for WRP. Running has had such a positive impact on me, both physical and mental, it’s hard to remember what I felt like before.
What is your biggest running achievement?
I think my biggest achievement was that first Cardiff half. I lead the Monday Improvers group – I love being able to encourage other women to continue their running journey, if I can do it, then anyone can!
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
My top tip.. a banana One hour before the race start, Medjool dates, one every 5 miles plus a bag of ready salted crisps at the finish line!
Brydie Coles
Why / how did you get into running?
I first joined Women Running Penarth through their beginners course in September 2022. Running has not only improved my fitness, it gave me new friends and a huge lift in my mental wellbeing.
Which runs do you lead at WRP?
You will mostly see me leading a session on a Wednesday or a Sunday!
What is your biggest running achievement?
My biggest running achievement is completing my first half marathon 9 months after completing the beginners course – thanks to the support of Women Running Penarth I discovered what I’m cable of!
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
My number one for tip for new runners is “it’s not about how fast you can run it’s about the time spent on your feet”
Rachel Llewellyn
Why / how did you get into running?
I first discovered running after having my second daughter in 2022. A few friends were already part of WRP, and with a little encouragement (and a lift!) from Brydie one Monday evening, I’ve never looked back.
Which runs do you lead at WRP?
I now help lead our Thursday club sessions and am part of the Sunday team, supporting runners of all levels.What is your biggest running achievement?
I’m still working towards my greatest achievement, which is that I’ve completed 5 out of 6 SuperHalfs Half Marathons across Europe and I’m excited to finish the series in Berlin next year. I’m incredibly proud of what we achieve together as a club — the friendships, the milestones, and the shared determination that keeps us moving forward.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
My number one tip for every runner is hydration — it makes a huge difference. I’ve learnt that when I don’t hydrate properly, fatigue sets in quicker and hits harder, so it’s something I always prioritise.
Lara Stevens
Why / how did you get into running?
In my 20s I decided I wanted to run a half marathon (having never run before!) so trained with a family friend who had done one before. Running then became part of me. I love a run to switch off and get rather excited about off road/trail routes!
What is your history with WRP?
A year or so later another friend who was a member of WRP recommended I join the club. I’ve been a member of the club for I don’t know how many years and was asked to becoming a Leader about 5 years ago which was an honour. I usually lead the Monday runs and I am currently on a break after having my second child.
What is your biggest running achievement?
My biggest running achievement is running postpartum while on maternity leave and still breastfeeding. I started back with WRP club runs 12 weeks after my son was born and ran the Cosmeston Relay (5k) 5 months after giving birth and breastfeeding my son just before the start line.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
My number 1 tip for runners is to learn to pace yourself when you’re out for a run. It’s so easy to get carried along by music you’re listening to or the people you are running with and at times you can find yourself struggling to keep up. Learn to listen to your body and the signs that you need to pull back or can speed up a little. And don’t be afraid to ignore pace times if that’s what works for you, do what you need to do to enjoy a run. 💕
Susan Coffey
Why / how did you get into running?
I got back into running in 2019 and muddled through three Cardiff Half Marathons before joining WRP in October 2024.
What is your history with WRP?
The club’s hills, drills, and incredible support helped me train for the Brighton Marathon, which I ran in 2025 in memory of my aunt and uncle. What I love most about WRP is its inclusive ethos – welcoming women of all ages and abilities while offering expert guidance to help every runner thrive. This year, I completed the Leader in Running Fitness course and now co-lead the Beginner Group with Erika.
What is your biggest running achievement?
I also run and volunteer at Grangemoor Park Run, which is my favourite way to kick off the weekend.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
My top tip: keep it fun – enjoyment is the key to consistency. And the advice I should follow myself – do more strength training!
Sue Carter
Why / how did you get into running?
I got into running as a teenager and competed for county schools—it was more than just a sport; it was my passion. I trained intensively for five years until university life took over. Unfortunately, in my early 30s, after years of high-impact exercise, I needed operations on both knees and was told I’d never run again.
What is your history with WRP?
After 18 years of no running and feeling increasingly miserable, a friend challenged me to join the WRP beginners group. I honestly thought those days were behind me, but that one decision changed everything. I now lead the Improvers group on Thursday evenings and absolutely love supporting others on their running journeys.
What is your biggest running achievement?
My proudest achievement is simply being able to run again. Two years after joining WRP, I completed my first half marathon in Cardiff—something I had long admired in others and never thought I’d do myself.
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
My top tip for runners is to persevere with your dream. Build distance slowly, don’t fixate on speed, and rest when your body needs it. Never compare yourself to others—run for yourself, but always encourage and celebrate those around you.
Sarah Molyneux-Wright
Why / how did you get into running?
I tried time and time again to get into running for years with no luck! In Spring 2023 I became a mum, and wanted to have something to focus on just for me. I saw an ad to enter for a charity space for the Cardiff Half Marathon, and impulsively entered. That’s when the running began and I never looked back. I completed my first half marathon that October.
What is your history with WRP?
A few days after Cardiff Half Marathon in 2023, I joined WRP for my taster session (I think it was early birds, too!) I absolutely loved it, and attended regularly throughout my mat leave. Fast forward to Summer 2025, I completed my running Leaders course and now lead some sessions each week which is very rewarding. You may see me on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. I love sprints and Hills!
What is your biggest running achievement?
My biggest running achievement is completing Falmouth Half Marathon without stopping to walk up the mountainous hills. 1300 ft of elevation!
What is your no.1 tip for runners?
Always carry something sugary on you like a fruity chew, as it’s sometimes when you least think you’ll need it… you do!