Muddy Runners founder Kate Bone wins Unsung Hero Award

Kate Bone received the Unsung Hero Award at the England Athletics 2026 Regional Volunteer Awards. <i>(Image: England Athletics)</i>
Kate Bone received the Unsung Hero Award at the England Athletics 2026 Regional Volunteer Awards. (Image: England Athletics)
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A founding member of an Andover running club has been celebrated for her contribution to athletics.

Kate Bone, a founding member of Muddy Runners, received the Unsung Hero Award at the England Athletics 2026 Regional Volunteer Awards.

The ceremony took place at Silvermere Inn on the Lake in Cobham on Saturday, October 3.

Kate Bone received the Unsung Hero Award at the England Athletics 2026 Regional Volunteer Awards. (Image: England Athletics)

For over 10 years, Kate has played a key role in the running club, combining coaching, leadership and mental health advocacy.

Her initiatives have boosted participation, confidence and wellbeing among runners.

Beyond coaching, she has led various projects such as mindful running sessions, #LetsLiftTheCurfew activities and mental health awareness campaigns.

Her efforts have extended beyond her own club, providing support to other clubs, run leaders and community organisations.

As a run leader mentor and mental health ambassador, Kate has helped make athletics more inclusive and accessible.

England Athletics said: "Kate Bone has been a driving force behind Muddy Runners for more than a decade, combining coaching, leadership and mental health advocacy to improve the lives of countless runners.

"Her compassion, generosity and commitment to helping others ensure that athletics remains welcoming, inclusive and accessible for everyone."

The awards celebrate the exceptional work of volunteers in the athletics community.

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