Meet The Team
Coaches & Leaders
Sue McPherson
- Coach & Leader in Running Fitness
- Guide Runner for Visually Impaired
- Track Official
- Field Official
- Level 3 Emergency First Aid
- Personal Trainer
- Gym Instructor
- Vets League Athlete
I’ve loved running since I was 13, when I first started competing at County level in the 100m and 200m, and I continued racing through my early 20s. After taking some time away, I returned to running with a fresh perspective and a new challenge in mind — exploring longer distances from 5K right through to the half marathon.
As my love for running grew, so did my desire to give something back. In 2019, I qualified as a Run Leader through UK Athletics (LiRF) and began leading training sessions with my local club. Supporting others, celebrating their progress, and sharing the journey has become one of the most rewarding parts of my running life.
This naturally led me into a career helping people improve their health and fitness. I qualified as a Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer, and since late 2021 I’ve been guiding individuals towards their own personal bests. Whether it’s through one-to-one coaching, Couch to 5K programmes, or improvers sessions for those ready to take the next step, I love helping people grow in confidence and ability.
Running and fitness have taught me the value of consistency, perseverance, and — most importantly — community. I’m passionate about sharing that positive experience with every runner and every client I work with. Whether you’re just getting started or aiming higher than ever before, I’m here to support you, encourage you, and help you move forward with confidence.
Vinay Joshi
- Peer & Run / Coach Leader Mentor
- Coach & Leader in Running Fitness
- Guide Runner for Visually Impaired / Hard of Hearing
- Track Official
- junior parkrun Event Director
- parkrun Run Director
- Mental Health Champion
- Level 3 Emergency First Aid
- EA DBS Verifier
- Northamptonshire Sport Couch To Coach Funding Panel Member
I first stepped into running in 2018, hesitantly joining a local club that offered beginner sessions for people who had never run before. I was nervous – self-conscious about being the slowest and largest runner in the group – but my fears quickly melted away. I found a community that was welcoming, encouraging, and full of like-minded people who wanted to get fitter in a fun, relaxed environment.
Completing that beginner course was just the beginning. I soon found myself running 3–4 times a week, and I discovered a deep joy in helping others start their running journeys, just as I had been supported.
I wanted to give back, so I trained and qualified as a Run Leader Assistant, then as an England Athletics Leader in Running Fitness, and more recently as an England Athletics Coach in Running Fitness. I also have the privilege of guiding visually impaired and hard-of-hearing runners.
Today, I lead my own groups and support others across Northamptonshire, working on community projects with Northamptonshire Sport to help more people become active. I have been Run Director at Irchester Country parkrun and am co-Event Director at Croyland Park junior parkrun.
I've also set up running groups specifically to support those experiencing mental health challenges or trauma, creating safe spaces where they can be active without stress or pressure.
I am a Run / Coach Leader Mentor supporting other Run Leaders and Coaches in their journeys, a peer support Mentor for new Run Leader Mentors, and I am proud to serve as an England Athletics Track Judge, Time Keeper, and Starter.
Running has transformed my life, and my passion lies in helping others grow through theirs – whether you're taking your very first steps or chasing a personal goal as a seasoned runner. I hope to inspire, support, and guide you every step of the way.
Karen Goka
- Leader in Running Fitness
- Guide Runner for Visually Impaired
- Mental Health Champion
- Level 3 Emergency First Aid
I fell in love with running way back at 15. Watching others run inspired me to give it a try, and I quickly discovered just how much fun it could be! Life got busy with work and family, and running sometimes took a backseat—but that little spark never went away.
Signing up for 5Ks and 10Ks helped me stay on track and made running feel like a rewarding part of my routine again. And honestly, running with friends is the best motivation—you’re more likely to stick with it, and it’s way more fun to chat and laugh along the way.
Joining Abbey Joggers has been such a joy! There’s nothing better than cheering each other on, celebrating every milestone, and building friendships while doing something that makes us feel amazing. Whether you’re just starting out or getting back into running, we’d love to have you along for the journey—it’s always more fun together!
Rachel Ilsley
- Leader in Running Fitness
- Guide Runner for Visually Impaired / Hard of Hearing
- Level 3 Emergency First Aid
Mental Health Champions
Our Mental Health Champions are volunteer members who help promote mental wellbeing through running. Their main aim is to encourage open, supportive conversations about mental health, help reduce stigma, and connect people with the mental-health benefits of running and are able to signpost people to professional services and resources when needed.
Below left to right: Chris L, Julie M, Julie S
Chloe
Harshit