ABOUT US
What is OverRun Project?
OverRun Project is an award winning running club, dedicated to advocating mental health and wellness through the power of running.
Founded by Harry Higgs in May 2024, OverRun is a club united by the belief that running is not just about improving your physical health - it can dramatically improve your mental health too.
Our club runs are a judgement free space that encourage open and stigma free conversations; where runners can feel seen, heard, and supported.
How did OverRun Project start?
Our club founder, Harry, started his running journey in July 2023 by taking on his first Parkrun 5K. Harry has suffered with mental ill health for most of his life, from feelings of severe anxiety and OCD to feeling completely alone and at breaking point. Finding running gave Harry an outlet to release his feelings and take time for himself, a space where he could truly be the best version of himself without the negative demons in his head controlling him.
After speaking with other runners, so many of them were running to improve their mental health, but were too afraid of opening up to those around them through fear of sounding ‘weird’.
But what if there was a dedicated running club, whose mission was to champion mental health by creating a space where conversations flow freely, judgement is left at the door and the stigma is defeated once and for all?
Back in May 2024, Harry announced what he thought would be a little run club with that very mission; to advocate and defeat the stigma around mental health. He vouched that if the club could help just one person that was struggling, just one... that would be a job well done!
Why choose OverRun Project?
OverRun Project is free to join, and always will be. We believe that people should always have access to support without having to face the pressure of being able to afford it. Whilst running is a naturally competitive sport, our aim is to advocate mental health and raise awareness for those suffering in silence. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner or just starting out, OverRun Project is a club for all abilities.
In 2025, OverRun Project was awarded Kent Mental Wellbeing's Activity Group Award.
How do I join?
Joining OverRun Project is free, and always will be. To join our club, simply follow us on our social media accounts @OverRunProject. All of our club runs are posted on ‘RunTogether’, and can be booked via the app. RunTogether is a program ran by England Athletics.
MEET THE TEAM
Harry Higgs
Club Founder & Head Run Leader
Hey, I’m Harry. For me, running has always been more than just a way of keeping physically fit. Running has been a form of therapy and self care, a space where I can truly be at peace and focus on being the best version of myself.
For most of my life I have struggled with poor mental health, particularly anxiety and OCD. Founding OverRun Project has truly changed my life. Watching runners grow and come together to champion their passion for mental health advocacy has had a reformative power I could have never imagined.
Matt McCarthy
Ambassador & Run Leader
Hi, I'm Matt. I've struggled with various aspects of mental health since I was a kid and find the culmination of them can be overwhelming. I’ve found running a fantastic way to improve my mental health and has been my main focus since my wife passed away in 2022.
I joined OverRun’s ambassador programme to help the club grow, we support each other and it is no longer just a run club. I use running as a way of achieving things and putting purpose into my life by trying to run faster or further than I have before.
Emily Newman
Ambassador & Run Leader
Hey, I’m Emily! Running has become such an important part of my life. It gives me space to breathe, to think and to reset. Even on the hardest days, getting out and moving reminds me that I’m still showing up for myself and that’s something to be proud of.
Since joining OverRun, I have found a community where I truly belong, a group of people who understand me and lift each other; it has become a non-negotiable part of my week.
Jay Jeffery
Ambassador
Hello, I’m Jay. I started running just after lockdown. Like many people, I drank and ate far too much during that time, which had a negative impact on both my physical and mental health.
I joined OverRun in 2025 and immediately felt welcomed and supported. What I love most about OverRun is how it brings together people who would never realistically have crossed paths; It creates a real sense of community and connection.
As an ambassador, I hope to help continue that spirit, grow the OverRun family, and make sure everyone feels as welcome as I did.
OUR PARTNERS
OverRun Project is proud to collaborate and have worked with with partners, charities and local businesses who share our dedication to mental health advocacy through running. Together, we work towards creating meaningful initiatives and events that promote mental well-being in our community. Our partners play a crucial role in supporting our mission and expanding the reach of our runs, allowing us to make a greater impact in the realm of mental health and wellness.
