Paul Popham Running Club (PPRC) has announced a nationwide expansion across Wales, following growing demand and the continued success of its flagship Swansea running club. The rollout is being supported by partnerships with Freedom Leisure and Legacy Leisure, enabling the club to strengthen and grow its community-based running network across the country.
PPRC President and Popham Kidney Support CEO, Joanne Popham, is calling on runners and anyone looking to get fit in 2026 to join the club, highlighting the benefits of physical activity for overall wellbeing and helping raise awareness of kidney disease.
New clubs are set to launch at Freedom Leisure sites including Ystradgynlais Sports Centre, Brecon Leisure Centre, Maldwyn Leisure Centre, Bro Ddyfi Leisure Centre, Waterworld Leisure and Activity Centre, and Llandudno Junction Leisure Centre. Additional clubs will also open at Legacy Leisure sites – Cardiff International Pool & Gym and Cowbridge Leisure Centre – alongside a standalone club in Haverfordwest.
Kicking off the nationwide expansion, the Haverfordwest club will officially launch on 17 May, from Haverfordwest Cricket Club at 11.00am. The club will then run two weekly sessions: Wednesdays from 6.00pm to 7.00pm at Haverfordwest Leisure Centre, and Sundays from 11.00am to 12.00pm at Haverfordwest Cricket Club.
PPRC Haverfordwest will be led by Lucy Jamieson and Tom Hoare, who will deliver weekly sessions and offer guidance and encouragement to runners of all abilities. Both are experienced runners and are looking forward to supporting the club’s continued growth within the local community.
Originally launched in Swansea in 2016 by Popham Kidney Support, Paul Popham Running Club is now celebrating its 10th year, continuing its mission to help individuals of all abilities learn to run and experience the physical and emotional benefits of regular exercise. The partnerships with Freedom Leisure and Legacy Leisure will enable the club to reach even more communities, offering accessible training while supporting Popham Kidney Support’s mission to raise awareness of kidney disease.
Since its inception, Paul Popham Running Club has grown into a strong and supportive social running community focused on long-term health and wellbeing. Many members have gone on to take part in events including the Swansea Marathon, Cardiff Half Marathon, the London Marathon and Ironman competitions. The club supports runners at every level, from beginners progressing from zero to 5k, through to 10k, half marathon and full marathon training.
Freedom Leisure is a UK-based not-for-profit charitable trust dedicated to improving lives through leisure and cultural services. With more than 120 leisure, cultural and entertainment venues across the country, it provides inclusive opportunities for communities to become more active.
Legacy Leisure is a registered charity committed to providing inclusive, sustainable, and high-quality leisure services for local communities. The organisation ensures access to activities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, while reinvesting surplus funds into facility improvements and community-based initiatives.
Through its close links with Popham Kidney Support, Paul Popham Running Club also plays an important role in raising awareness and funds for those affected by kidney disease. £5 from every annual membership fee is donated to the charity, alongside additional fundraising through running events and club activities.
Joanne Popham, President of Paul Popham Running Club, said:
“For many years we have dreamed of creating a network of running clubs across Wales, reaching more communities and giving people the opportunity to experience the benefits of running.
“These partnerships with Freedom Leisure and Legacy Leisure are helping us make that vision a reality. As a club, we want to encourage people to prioritise their health. Regular exercise can play an important role in supporting their physical and mental health.
“The club is also a tribute to my father, Paul Popham, whose experience with kidney disease and his love of running, football and keeping fit in general, inspired its creation. Through every new club, we continue to honour his legacy by raising awareness of Popham Kidney Support and kidney disease, while supporting others on their own fitness journeys.”
Paul Popham Running Club is also seeking volunteer run leaders to support its expanding network. Volunteers will play a key role in bringing people together, supporting local communities and helping to raise awareness of kidney health across Wales.
Successful applicants will receive Welsh Athletics training and ongoing support from both Popham Kidney Support and Freedom Leisure.
