A list of the training times and groups are located on our performance page. Please note that the timings do vary dependent on your age group, discipline and the time of year.

Can I just turn up on a training night?

It is advisable to make contact in advance to determine the most appropriate training group and availability at the time. The club promotes 2 taster sessions to provide the athlete an insight into the club culture, training groups and competition opportunities.

Do I have to pay any fees in addition to my membership fee?

There are no additional fees to train however there may be additional costs for club travel or entry to certain events.

How do I register with English Athletics?

The club will automatically register 1st claim competing athletes with English Athletics. The club are unable to register 2nd claim members.

How do I change clubs?

Please refer to the instruction on the English Athletics webpage: https://www.englandathletics.org/athletics-and-running/athlete-registration/change-of-first-claim-club/

Our Club Ethos & Values

City of York AC is a local grassroots athletics club catering for everyone, from beginners to elite athletes, newcomers to veterans.

We offer high-quality, friendly coaching in a supportive and inclusive environment, giving participants the opportunity to explore all disciplines, including track and field, road running, cross country, trail, and fell running. We also have an established group for athletes with disabilities and run weekly training sessions in York for all levels of ability, starting from School Year 6.

The ethos of City of York Athletic Club is to be a welcoming, community-driven club that supports all ages, abilities, and disciplines. We aim to provide an enjoyable experience for all who contribute and compete, powered by a dedicated team of volunteers who are the heart of our club.

We are committed to the ongoing development of our athletes, coaches, and technical officials to ensure the club continues to grow and thrive.

City of York AC is also proud to be a registered charity (Charity No. 1191589). You can view our official listing on the Charity Commission’s website. This charitable status may be of interest to members and is also useful information for potential sponsors and supporters of the club.

Accessibility

The club is open to all and does not discriminate on race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, religious affinity, disability or mental health.

Sportsmanship

The activity of running and athletics should be enjoyable for their own sake with proper consideration for fairness, ethics, respect and a sense of fellowship with team members and competitors.

Endeavour

“The important thing in life is not the triumph but the fight; the essential thing is not to have won, but to have fought well.” - Pierre Coubertin, founder of the modern Olympics.

Enjoyment

Participation and involvement with our club should enhance peoples natural enjoyment of the sport both inside and outside of the competitive environment.

Dedication

We expect all members where possible to make a commitment to the club through volunteering at events it organises, supporting club management matters or team events.

About Us

Frequently asked questions

VOLUNTEERS WANTED - PLEASE GET IN TOUCH IF YOU CAN HELP INFO@CITYOFYORKAC.COM

Our Committee

Our club is run by volunteers and can only function through their support. No one person can be expected to take overall charge and responsibility. To ensure the continued success of the club and support of these volunteers, the club operates through a range of sub committees, each responsible for key functions.

A small group, the core commmittee, will be responsible for fulfilling key responsibilities that the club must fulfill, meeting 3-4 times per year and liaising as necessary with the sub committees. By necessity, the core commitee will include a treasurer, secretary, welfare officer and membership secretary and by its nature will rotate and change depending on the needs of the club. The key roles may also be shared responsibilities.

Chair - Ian Barnard

Ian is one of the owners of a successful local law firm, bringing strong leadership, governance and organisational experience. He became involved with the Club through his two children, who are thriving as athletes, giving him a clear understanding of the needs of young athletes and their families. He is committed to supporting the Club in a well-governed and athlete-focused way.

Vice Chair

Placeholder

Treasurer - Tony Walker

Tony has been involved with the Club for the past 18 months since his son joined as a U13 middle-distance runner, and his daughter has since joined. With over 20 years’ experience in Commercial Director roles in the medical devices sector, he is keen to give something back and help build on the strong platform established by the previous committee.

Secretary - Matthew Boxall

Matt joined the Club in April 2024 and values its strong sense of community and team ethos. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he has supported the Club as a coach, official and university liaison, and now serves on the committee as Club Secretary. He is excited about the opportunities for members to be involved and about the Club’s future.

Membership Secretary

Mike Raynes

Welfare Officer - Nigel Taylor

I am also a coaching assistant and recently qualified mental health champion.

I have been in this role with other clubs for several years now, previously been a club welfare officer within the RFL referees societies. I have also tutored welfare courses for the RFL.

I hope I can bring a lot of experience to the role.

I am here to help with any welfare issues, so feel free to speak to me when I am at track or reach out on the club welfare email address.

York Sport/York Uni Liaison

Matt Boxall

Equalities Lead - Kate Ghosh

I am delighted to take on the role of Equalities Lead, bringing over 20 years’ experience as a physiotherapist, a Sports Science degree and a military background. Sport has always been central to my life, with all four of my children actively involved, including George, who runs for the club.

Having worked with leading experts such as Steve Peters to enhance female performance, I am particularly passionate about supporting adolescent athletes and expanding opportunities for disabled and neurodivergent members.

I look forward to working with athletes, families and coaches to create an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their potential.

Welfare Officer - Chantal Lowson

I am one of the two Welfare Officers at City of York Athletics Club and a parent of two daughters who train and compete in cross country and track for the club. Being part of the club community has been very beneficial for them, and I am keen to give back. I currently work for a national palliative care charity in a management role within the national operations team, supporting frontline healthcare teams, where strong safeguarding and welfare standards are central.

I am passionate about sport and the positive impact a supportive club environment can have. In my teenage years, I was also a member of my local running club. In my committee role, I aim to help promote positive safeguarding and welfare practices across the club, working alongside the other Welfare Officer, the Inclusion Officer and the wider committee. Please visit the club safeguarding and welfare page if you wish to contact Nigel or myself.