Quote Originally Posted by Hank View Post
It's an interesting question. I don't think for one moment that fell running is in anyway creating barriers to ethnic minority runners, and I'm sure most races/clubs/participants would genuinely welcome anyone in to the sport. But to just say 'the door is open, anyone can come in' isn't the same as encouraging participation.

The UK has a rich history of racism endemic in its society and predominately/all white institutions often won't look like very welcoming places to those of different ethnic backgrounds (even though those institutions aren't in any way racist and would welcome anyone). Sometimes a little pro-activity is needed, not only to open the door, but to say "Hey, come in, we'd love you to get involved!".

I guess in the case of fell running it's not through lack of willing, more no money/time/resource (thinking particularly of clubs) to reach out to different communities to engage them. If it were possible I'm sure there'd be plenty of folk willing to do it, and fell running's participants might become a little more diverse.
Good post. I’d add that encouraging people of all ages from ethnic minority backgrounds, as well as girls & women, would be a very positive step. Fell running is part of a rich tapestry of running disciplines & is also one of the most accessible in terms of cost (race fees being minimal in comparison to road counterparts). It’d be very healthy for the sport to encourage the next generation to take it up - vital, in terms of keeping fell running alive & relevant. Does the FRA have any such schemes?