Ron Hill clothing: Short History

Being a bit of an amateur runner myself I'm always on the lookout for new equipment and that led me to Ron Hill Clothing. I discovered that behind the brand was an extremely inspirational story and I felt compelled to write a short blog about it. 

Back in 1970, Ron Hill became the first ever Britain to win the Boston Marathon in a mere 2:10:30. Forty years later that time has only been improved by 6-7 minutes and you realize what a fantastic athlete Ron must have been.

Continuing his success in July of the same year Ron competed in the British Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh and became the first ever man to break the 2:10 barrier clocking a world record time of 2:09:28.

After completing a PhD in textiles Ron set up his own company having become convinced that synthetic fabrics would be ideal for runners.

His clothing company pioneered various products like wrap-over shorts, mesh vests, waterproof running jackets and reflective strips and all the standard athletic clothing we use today. He said: "I was running to and from work in the dark in winter and wondered what I needed to stay safe," and that's how Ron Hill clothing began. What an inspiration.

Now Dr. Ron Hill and sports clothing pioneer, Ron decided to sell his company in 1991 to the Peaco Group after the market became extremely competitive. But that didn't stop the brand under his direction from exceeding over £6million in sales at its peak, which of course is a mighty achievement by anyone's standards.

But how could Ron Hill Clothing continue without the man himself? Well, Ron was given the option to act as ambassador to his brand, a role which he continues to this day, and is oft involved with his old company. Just last year Ron Hill Clothing celebrated 40 years of business and Dr Ron Hill M.B.E is invited to an event put on by his old company in celebration of his work with the company and his achievement as an athlete.

Now almost 70, Ron has built up a running streak since December 1964, claiming to have never missed a day even after a broken sternum and complicated foot surgery. Before he turns 70 he aims to race in 100 countries around the world. If only we could be so determined.

Ron Hill Clothing Resources

Ron Hill.com (Official Site)

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