Running with Tasha Thompson: Celebrating Diversity in Sports

Lace up those running shoes because we're diving into an awe-inspiring tale of passion, joy, and diversity in the world of sports. Say hello to Tasha Thompson, a runner on a mission to not just conquer miles but to make a lasting impact on the running community in the UK and beyond.

“I’ve been running for 24 years. Wow, so I started running quite a while ago!” Tasha exclaims with her infectious smile. “I started running in July 1999.” That year, Tasha decided to swap the cosy gym treadmill for the unpredictable running world outside. She was no stranger to the gym, where the treadmill had been her trusty sidekick, but stepping out that day, she encountered the harsh reality of outdoor running – “it's tough,” she recalls. The treadmill's predictability couldn't hold a candle to the thrill of running outdoors, though, feeling the wind on her face, basking in the sun, and soaking in the ever-changing scenery engulfed Tasha into the world of road running to the point that she now jokingly calls a treadmill a “dreadmill.”

The allure of outdoor running led Tasha to take the plunge and sign up for her first 5-kilometer race in 1999. Crossing that finish line and clutching her hard-earned medal was “all sorts of amazing,” she recalls with a glint in her eye. It was the kind of high that lingers, the kind that hooks you for life.

But Tasha wasn't content with just one race under her belt. She craved the challenge and purpose that came with training for longer distances. Half marathons and marathons became her new passion. The joy of committing to twelve weeks of focused training, all leading up to a triumphant race day, fuelled her passion for running. Fast forward to today – just days after she’s run the Ealing Half Marathon and a week before she’s running the Royal Parks Half Marathon – and that fire still burns bright.

One of the most remarkable facets of Tasha's story is her wholehearted dedication to fostering diversity within the running community. It all began in April 2019, triggered by a disheartening incident at a race where a marshal questioned the fact that she and a friend were taking part in the race and where there were notably few Black runners, especially Black women, at the starting line. In response, Tasha took action and founded Black Girls Do Run UK. What began as a humble Instagram page shared among friends quickly evolved into a vibrant and thriving community of Black women who share a passion for running. Their collective mission? To tackle the issue of underrepresentation head-on and enjoy running as part of a group of fun-loving women. Their approach is simple yet powerful. They organise group runs across various parts of London, creating a warm and inclusive network for Black women who want to explore the joys of running. It's all about breaking down barriers and making running an approachable and supportive endeavour for everyone involved.

That’s not to say it has all been smooth sailing. Tasha continues to face her fair share of challenges and has to navigate some common misconceptions. Some question why there is a need for a group exclusively for Black women in the running community, while others mistakenly see their mission as exclusionary. Tasha's response, however, remains rooted in patience and a commitment to education. She makes it clear their mission is not about exclusion but about creating a supportive space for a specific group within an underrepresented demographic. Their aim is to help these women build confidence and embrace a healthier lifestyle through running.

And the results of their efforts speak volumes. Just five short years after the group's inception, Tasha's eyes light up as she recalls some of her top moments. "This July, 14 women from the community started and finished the 50km Race to the Stones ultramarathon,” she exclaims. It's a remarkable achievement that demonstrates the incredible progress they've made. Another cherished memory is when a 25-strong cheer squad from Black Girls Do Run UK showed up to support the group's runners in the 2023 London Marathon. Decked out with big banners and the club's bright pink shirts, they filled the air with encouraging cheers. "I loved it!" Tasha recalls with enthusiasm. These moments are a testament to the strength and unity of the community Tasha has built.

Tasha's incredible journey serves as proof of the remarkable impact one person's unwavering passion and determination can have in the running world. Her story is a vivid reminder that running transcends mere distances; it's a force for dismantling barriers, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring others to take up the mantle. In an era where we celebrate the rich tapestry of diversity in sports, Tasha's narrative stands out as a beacon of hope. It vividly demonstrates that a captivating, inclusive spirit has the power to reshape the very landscape of running. So, let's hit the road and make each stride count, together.