We at She Strides believe everyone should have the opportunity to run safely.
We want you to feel strong, empowered and achieve more than you believe you are capable of.
“I set up St. Pol Striders, women’s only running group 7 years ago after finding mixed groups too competitive. I realised we were growing rapidly because of the love and support the women gave each other, on and off the trail. If one falls, everyone is there to pick them back up. They are genuinely friends and fiercely loyal. They get competitive in races but will scream with joy when one of ours crosses the finish line. I wanted to take that into events and knowing what the ultra community is like, only strengthened that support for each other on the trails.”
Jilly Walstow, She Strides founder
Jilly Walstow
Jilly has been running for 13 years, She went from couch to ultra in 9 months and hasn’t looked back since. To date, she has run 95 ultra-marathons and 16 marathons. Jilly is happiest when on a trail somewhere…
During that time, she earned a degree in Psychology, as well as a diploma in psychotherapy and counseling, and a diploma in sports psychology.
She is a qualified run leader and run coach and is the founder of the women’s running club St. Pol Striders, which now has over 80 members!
In May 2025 Jilly became the first woman to run the Calderdale Way double, earning herself an FKT.
Iona Davidson
Iona is a speed demon and is happiest in a 10k and when she is at the front of a really fast race! But she has done 4 marathons so far and is training for her next one… Iona did finally agree to join Jilly in the ultra world and has completed 3 50k’s now.
Iona joined Jilly’s c25k group in Jan 2020 and whilst wasn’t regular, she did keep it up during lockdown. She has discovered a love of running and now works alongside Jilly training people to run fast as well as far.
Meet The Team
We have a wonderful team of volunteers and ambassadors who all help to marshal races, lead recces and support you through whatever you need, whether that be running related or just general life! Our women’s only events have entirely women only crew too.