Birchfield Harriers is an athletics club, founded in 1877. Its home is at Birmingham's Alexander Stadium, England.
As well as allowing recreational runners they cater for all levels of experience up to and including Olympic athletes whether able-bodied or wheelchair-using athletes.
The Club's motto is Fleet and Free.
Contents
History
Founded in 1877, the Harriers were named after the Birchfield district of Birmingham. In June 1879, the club held its first annual athletics meeting at the Aston Lower Grounds, attended by 4,000 despite the unfavourable weather. In July 1881, they held their fifth Amateur Bicycle and Athletic Sports event.
In 1908 Archie Robertson was Birchfield's first Olympic gold medallist.
From 1929 to 1977, the Harriers were based at nearby Perry Barr, was Alexander Sports Ground, which, until its demolition in October 2025, still carried their badge, a running stag, rendered in this case in Art Deco style, carved in 1929 and attributed to William Bloye. Both venues were named for members of the Alexander family, who were prominent members of the club.
Pat Cropper was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her running achievements in the 1974 Birthday Honours. In 1993, Peter Radford served as Chairman of UK Athletics.
In the 2000 New Year Honours, heptathlete Denise Lewis was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). In 2010, coach Norma Blaine was made an MBE in the New Years Honours announced on 31 December 2010, for her services to athletics.
Tom McCook, a former athlete and club chairman, was the club's President from 2001 until standing down at the end of 2013.
Honours
British Athletics League, champions 1969, 1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
UK Women's Athletic League, champions 2011, 2012, 2016