The Remarkable Journey of Joe Aspinall: From Orphan to Record-Breaking Runner

Joe Aspinall’s life story is one of resilience, determination, and an unyielding spirit. Born in 1938 just outside of London in Ashford, Middlesex, Joe’s early years were shaped by the confines of a Catholic convent in Aldershot. Reflecting on his upbringing, he recalls, “My mother was all religion, religion, religion,” a sentiment that still resonates with him, revealing the emotional scars of his childhood.

A Childhood Shaped by Absence

Joe’s father was a mystery to him, a “skilled fitter” whose absence left a void in Joe’s life. Through his own research, he learned that his father had likely been called up for military service during World War II. “I’ve had little contact with any relatives, so I’ve always been on my own and pretty much become dysfunctional,” he admits. This sense of isolation defined much of his early life.

Despite the challenges, Joe found solace in education, particularly in geography and history. He also excelled in sports, especially cricket and running. Every Sunday, the children at the convent were allowed to make their way back from mass, a two-mile journey that Joe always completed first. “I was always the first one back for bread and jam and a cup of tea, so I became a decent runner, too,” he recalls with a hint of pride.

The Transition to Independence

Adoption never materialized for Joe, and at the age of 15, he was forced to leave the convent. With no family to take him in, social services placed him in a Working Men’s Hostel until he turned 18. His first job as a page boy at the Mayfair Hotel in Piccadilly exposed him to the world of hospitality, where he encountered generous American guests. However, lacking skills and direction, Joe soon found himself hopping from job to job.

Seeking adventure and a sense of purpose, Joe enlisted in the Royal Air Force (RAF) for nine years, opting for the longer commitment due to better wages. His time in the RAF included a full tour in Cyprus, where he was present during a significant explosion at an aircraft hangar, earning him a medal for his service. Reflecting on his decision to enlist, he muses, “If I’d been given a clerical job I would have stayed.”

Life After the RAF

Upon leaving the RAF, Joe faced the daunting reality of civilian life. “Having no family, I walked out of those gates for the last time and immediately felt lost,” he shares. With limited skills and connections, he took a job as a cellarman on Oxford Street. The financial cushion he had saved during his service soon led him into the world of gambling, which, while initially thrilling, ultimately took a toll on his health and stability.

Despite the chaos of his early adulthood, Joe was determined to prove his worth. In his 40s, he enrolled in a modular degree course at the City of London Polytechnic, achieving a 2:2 degree, a testament to his perseverance and desire for self-improvement.

Discovering a Passion for Running

As Joe navigated the ups and downs of life, he found a new passion in running. Entering a race with the Veterans Athletic Club (VAC) sparked a lifelong commitment to the sport. At 85, Joe proudly holds numerous age-related records, breaking barriers in club races and park runs. “I’m breaking records for club races and park runs,” he declares, his enthusiasm palpable.

Joe’s journey as a runner has not only brought him accolades but also a sense of community and belonging. He fondly recalls the camaraderie of a running club that formed at the Blacksmith’s Arms in Rotherhithe, where they would run across Tower Bridge. His collection of medals and race records serves as a testament to his dedication and achievements over the decades.

Embracing Freedom and Nature

In addition to running, Joe developed a love for long-distance walking, particularly in the Scottish Highlands. “I like the outdoors and loved the wildness of the Highlands… Being happy in my own company is probably the reason I never married,” he reflects. This appreciation for solitude and nature has shaped his lifestyle, allowing him to remain free and independent.

Now settled in Bermondsey, Joe enjoys the tranquility of Southwark Park, where he prepares for his weekly park runs. His routine includes warming up and stretching, a ritual that underscores his commitment to maintaining his health and fitness.

A Legacy of Resilience

As we conclude our conversation, Joe Aspinall stands as a remarkable figure—a testament to resilience and the human spirit. With a backpack filled with cherished mementos and a heart full of memories, he prepares to run home. “I think I’ll run home while the weather’s nice,” he says, embodying the very essence of freedom and vitality.

Joe’s journey from a lonely childhood to becoming a record-breaking runner is not just a story of personal triumph; it is an inspiration to all who seek to overcome their circumstances and embrace life with passion and determination. As he disappears into the distance, it’s clear that Joe Aspinall is not just running; he is racing toward a future filled with possibilities.