A short history of Macclesfield Harriers Athletic Club

Although the club can trace its roots back to 1897 and perhaps earlier, it was more recently reformed in 1945 immediately after the Second World War. In the next 20 years the club flourished mainly in road and XC running, although T& F matches were also held. After a dip in support, the club re emerged in the 80’s when again the club boasted extremely strong runners for both marathon and half marathon running. During this time some very impressive T&F records were also set even though the club had no track and trained at local schools. Being close to the peak district hills, the club has always had a strong fell running section, which continues today.

In the 90’s after a lot of fund raising, and working with the local council, a successful lottery funded bid was achieved to allow a permanent 8 lane T&F facility, complete with purpose built clubhouse, sited behind the leisure centre. This came into use in 1999; and since then the club has fully developed a multi disciplined T&F approach, competing successfully in three different leagues. This has been achieved without detriment to other disciplines i.e.; road, XC and fell running. We can host high quality road races - the Macclesfield half marathon is in its 8th year, which is centred on the track, and we are able to put on XC races again using the facility as its focus. Since 1984 the club has published a quarterly magazine, and now along with most other clubs boasts a comprehensive web site with a very active forum.

We work closely with local primary and secondary schools, and our future aim is to provide a multi use indoor training facility alongside the current track.