Member of the Month, January 2026
Oscar Phillips-Barrett
For our first Member of the Month of 2026, we’re celebrating a Harrier who has become a true pillar of the club, Oscar Phillips-Barrett. Oscar’s a familiar face to anyone who attends our club runs, known for his pacing and technical advice, and the support he shows to the club and his fellow members.
Meet Oscar
Oscar’s one of our most dedicated support runners. Whether he’s helping his fellow members navigate the longer routes or coaching them through challenges of hills, he brings a calm and considerate presence to the group. He’s the type of Harrier who checks in on teammates and is always willing to offer a hand to anyone in need.
Drawn to longer routes (and bigger hills)
From the start, Oscar has been drawn towards the longer, more demanding stuff. Over time, that has turned into proper days out in the hills, travelling around the country to take on routes with more distance, more elevation and more technical terrain, often in our white kit.
Recent Ultra Highlights
Oscar’s last year or so has included some serious endurance efforts.
December 2025:
He took on the Winter Wanderlust Ultra – 50km with 810m elevation gain.
September 2025:
He tackled the 13 Valleys Ultra, 5 Valleys – 58km with 2,147m elevation gain.
December 2024:
He competed in the Hurtwood 50k, 52km with 1,226m of elevation gain.
Not to mention the other events he entered, too, including the Maidstone Half and several parkruns.
Volunteering and support
A special mention too for transporting, storing and helping out with our race kit for club events. It is one of those behind the scenes jobs that makes a huge difference, and Oscar quietly gets it done.
Q&A with Oscar
Where are you from, and where do you live now?
I grew up in Cranbrook, and now live a short stumble from the club house! I used to drive past the Harriers thinking you were all nuts…funny how things change.
What’s your occupation outside of the club?
I’m a project manager at a civil engineering company. In short, we fill up big holes like tunnels, mines, and old pipes. It’s fascinating what goes on under our feet!
What do you love most about running / swimming / cycling?
I love how freeing all three sports are, especially when life gets tough. With the added benefit of feeling the healthiest I’ve ever been; all whilst out in the countryside having a laugh with other people doing equally mad escapades.
What’s the best thing about being a part of the Harriers?
The level of camaraderie and encouragement. It’s the reason I even continued running in the early days. I feel like you really get out what you put in, and the opportunities are abundant.
What’s your best sporting moment?
It’s worth noting I was in no way sporty growing up, and it wasn’t until my 30s that I started moving with any purpose. So although I’ve done more challenging things since, I’m still very proud of summiting Snowdon, and running the Rhyd Ddu path – which ultimately led to my penchant for running hills, and encouraging others to do the same!
What song do you play when going for a personal best?
Brief Encounter by High Contrast. Drum & Bass is always the answer!
What’s your post-race treat?
I’m mildly ashamed to say…a bucket of chicken all to myself.
Thank You, Oscar
Congratulations to Oscar Phillips-Barrett, our January 2026 Member of the Month. Support runner, ultra enthusiast and a proper steady influence in the club. If you see him at club run, thank him for the tow up the climbs and ask which trail you should try next.
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