Our running roots

In 1998, Michael Groves, a popular and talented runner and cyclist, was tragically killed in a traffic collision. The following year Mike’s father, Alan Groves, organised a memorial charity race, with proceeds going to The Quidenham Children’s Hospice. Alan named it ‘The Mike Groves Run’. 

The race became an annual event and eventually gave the impetus and inspiration for Alan and his youngest son, Paul, to launch Coltishall Jaguars Running Club in 2004.

For 20 years Alan Groves remained our Club President with the Mike Groves race continuing annually, each year donating money to local charities, having currently raised in excess of £5000. The Mike Groves is now the central race in our 10K series,

A TRIBUTE TO OUR FOUNDER ALAN GROVES

In August 2024 with heavy hearts we said a sad goodbye to our Founder Alan Groves. Twenty years on from its inception, members past and present will agree that being part of this running club has had a big positive impact on many people’s lives and has created many lasting friendships, to which we owe Alan our thanks…

Alan was born in London in 1933. As a young man, he met his wife June, through a shared love of cycling. Following their marriage and their honeymoon on a tandem; they had a long and happy marriage.

Alan and June had two sons, Mike and Paul, and the family moved to Coltishall in Norfolk in the 1980s. Around this time Alan retired from work and enjoyed pursuing his interests. He was a keen motorcycle enthusiast and had a love for animals, especially dogs.

Alan was an active Chair of the Club for many years and enjoyed watching the Club grow. He took an interest in new members and always had time for a chat. Alan attended many of our races and liked to celebrate runners’ achievements with them.

We thank Alan for all that he did for our running club and we are proud to say his legacy will live on through Coltishall Jaguars Running Club.