1929

23rd August.
Jim Crehan born 

1980s

Inspired by his son Jim (a county runner) and daughter-in-law Susan (1988 GB Olympic Marathon runner).
 Decides to take up running himself with the marathon as his first goal.

1984

St Helens Striders founded by Jim as a running and drinking club for ex-miners.

The club offered friendship, fitness, competition, and post-run pints at the local pub.

Mid 80s

Club grows from small ex-miner roots into an inclusive running community.

Jim, “Mr Strider,” leads 10-mile runs—often turning into 15–20 muddy adventures.

Known for eccentric training methods and huge endurance.

1985

The club officially recognised as St Helens Striders Running Club

The values of achievement, enjoyment, and inclusion in running are firmly established.

1980s–1990s

Jim competes in numerous marathons.

Takes up long jump, triple jump, and high jump after training at Ruskin Drive.

1990s–2000s

Creates his famous training routine at Bold Forest Park: running with bricks in each hand and his dog Judi by his side.

Breaks multiple British records in veteran long jump, triple jump, and high jump (age categories 60, 65, 70, 75).

2009 (Age 80)

At the Northern Veteran Championships in Accrington, Jim breaks more records.

Triple jump of 6.97m ranks 3rd in the world all-time list for over-80 athletes.

Today

The club has grown to around 200 members

The spirit Jim created—friendship, fun, and competition—still defines the Striders community.