At 52, Jo Pavey remains one of British running’s most enduring and inspiring figures – a woman whose career has spanned decades, defied expectations and continually redefined what longevity in sport can look like.

And as anticipation builds for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, her perspective feels more valuable than ever.

Jo Pavey’s Commonwealth Journey

For many athletes, the Commonwealths represent a career milestone. It’s the chance to pull on your country’s vest, stand on the start line and compete on one of sport’s biggest stages. Few understand that feeling better than Jo. Across an extraordinary career, she has competed at five Olympic Games, won European titles and, perhaps most memorably, became the oldest female European champion in history when she claimed 10,000m gold at 40.

It’s a legacy that has made her one of the most respected voices in the sport. Even if, as she laughs, she was affectionately dubbed “granny” by younger athletes during her later championship years.

“I loved the banter,” she says. “They kept me going with their enthusiasm.”

That trademark humility is part of what has made Jo such an enduring favourite among runners of all ages. But behind the warmth is hard-earned wisdom – particularly for younger athletes preparing for major championships.

Her advice ahead of the Commonwealth Games is simple: don’t overcomplicate it.

“It’s all about thinking you’re going to go out there and give it your best,” she says. “Think of it like any other race. It’s fine to be nervous — that’s what helps bring out your best performance.”

For women preparing for their first major event, it’s a grounding reminder. Championship racing can feel overwhelming, but Jo believes the fundamentals remain the same: trust your training, stick to your routine and embrace the moment.

“Take a moment on the start line and think, wow, I’m here,” she says. “Be proud of that.”

It’s advice rooted in experience, but also in patience – something Jo feels is increasingly important in a culture obsessed with instant results.

For younger runners especially, she warns against comparing themselves to elite athletes and trying to mimic training volumes too soon.

“It takes years to build up to certain training loads,” she says. “You’ve got to give your body time to adapt.”

RUN:EA campaign

That gradual, consistent progression has been a hallmark of her own remarkable career, one built not on quick wins but on resilience, smart training and longevity.

It’s also why her role as an ambassador for England Athletics feels like such a natural fit.

Jo is fronting their new RUN:EA initiative, designed to support independent runners – those who love running but may not feel that joining a running club fits their lifestyle. And it’s a game-changer.

For many women, traditional club structures can feel intimidating. There’s often a perception that clubs are only for fast runners, or those happy doing track sessions at set times each week. RUN:EA is designed to challenge that idea, offering community, support and practical benefits without the commitment of club membership.

“It’s for people whose lives are busy,” says Jo. “Maybe they’re juggling everything, travelling a lot or just prefer to run independently. This gives them a way to still feel part of something.”

For £30 a year, members receive discounts on race entries, access to expert coaching advice, training support and brand offers – plus a digital platform that helps them connect with the wider running community.

For the many runners who’ve hovered over the “England Athletics affiliated” box on race entry forms and ticked “no”, RUN:EA offers a new kind of belonging.

It’s inclusive, flexible and designed around the realities of modern life. It’s something Jo believes is crucial if running is going to continue reaching more women.

RunTogether

But that’s only one side of her ambassadorial work: she’s also a passionate advocate for RunTogether, the nationwide programme helping people find friendly, local group runs.

Where RUN:EA supports independent runners, Run Together is about bringing people physically together – particularly those who may not yet feel ready for a traditional club.

“It’s brilliant for building confidence,” says Jo. “Some people want the social side of running but aren’t ready for an athletics club. This is a really welcoming way to start.”

Using the Run Together app or the England Athletics website, runners can search by postcode to find sessions nearby, with options tailored to different abilities and goals — whether that’s “Get Me Started”, “Keep Me Going” or “Challenge Me”.

Making running accessible to all

It’s a simple but powerful idea: meeting runners where they are; and that inclusivity matters. Because if there’s one thing Jo has championed throughout her career, it’s that running belongs to everyone. Not just elite athletes. Nor just club runners. Not just the fast. Everyone.

As the countdown to the Commonwealth Games continues, her message feels especially timely. Championships may showcase the sport at its highest level, but they also inspire participation at every level – from first-timers heading out for their first 5K to seasoned runners chasing new goals.

Jo embodies that bridge between elite achievement and everyday running.

She knows what it takes to reach the top. But she also understands the joy of simply getting out the door.

And that’s what makes her such a powerful role model. Not just because of the medals or records, but because she represents something bigger: consistency, courage and the belief that your running journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

Whether you’re dreaming of championship start lines or just building confidence on your local loop, Jo Pavey’s story is proof that the best running careers – and the best running relationships – are built over time.