There have been a few people present throughout our journey growing the running community in London. Organisers, leaders, partners... but what is a community without a story? For that, we turned to one of the best in the game behind the camera and all-round good egg, Adrian Varzaru, to snap every moment.

As part of our mission to Run Together, we wanted to highlight Adrian’s impact in telling the story of our running communities city-wide. So on a damp December evening, we popped the heating on and filled the cooler with drinks for a retrospective of Adrian’s (ongoing} photography project documenting run clubs throughout London.

But first, get to know the man on the camera and what this sport means to him.

Adrian, tell us a little about yourself

I’m a creative who happens to love coffee and running. The best combo, isn’t it? :)

How did you get involved in the world of running?

I've been running for many years on and off. I ramped up a bit more during COVID-19, and it has stayed since then. I'm running to keep my head clear, keep me focused, explore new places, and connect with like-minded people.

Tell us about your project to document Run Clubs around London?

I’ve been running with Runner Beans Club in Greenwich for about two years, documenting the group's growth and the relationships it has created. I started taking photos immediately after joining and have been doing that consistently every Saturday morning.

As a creative person, I initially found myself falling into the habit of taking similar shots. To challenge myself and keep things fresh, I decided to embark on this project. It involves exploring new routes, taking on new challenges, and meeting people. But also provide clubs with high-quality content to help attract new members and help them grow. After experiencing the amazing human connections at Runner Beans I was sure I would find even across London.

Having seen so many clubs, what does it mean to Run Together to you? Has your work changed how you view the meaning of running with others?

It’s about creating a shared energy, a collective purpose, and a sense of belonging. Having been immersed in so many running clubs and communities, I've seen how running with others can transform a solitary activity into something deeply communal and meaningful. It can sound pompous, but even a few words exchanged with a new runner can make their day. People run for numerous things, so chatting and running can forge many friendships.

You've been all over the world, what would you say defines the London run scene?

The London running scene is defined by its vibrant mix of culture, community, and diversity. But also how uniquely and easily can blend urban scenes with green spaces. There’s a plethora of clubs in London, I think this is common in the main urban areas. But I think the small clubs in smaller communities have a great impact on people.

Do you have a dream shoot? Race, location, person, group... anything!

Would love to document all the majors, my 7-star medal as a photographer if you like. But also get involved in projects like TSP and work with all the innovative brands in the running space.

Away from the camera, any goals for your own running? Who is your crew?

I would like to improve my half marathon time, be more consistent with my running, run a few races outside the UK,discover more countries through running and maybe clock 2500KM next year. And of course get even more run clubs involved in my project. My crew is still Runner Beans, but I can blend in and get the runner’s high from multiple sources. :)

Photography: Adrian Varzaru