Reminder
We are meeting on Saturday 2nd May in the George and Dragon, Tyldesley for a bank holiday pub crawl after 75 % of the blog voters stated that should be the next club's social night.
Meeting time 8pm but I'm sure some (you know who you are) will be there much earlier !
See Bob Stevens for more details.
About Us
Wednesday, 29 April 2009
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
My Marathon Experience - By Paul Jackson
Cragsy and I were both delighted to pick up our club places at the Xmas Do for this years FLM. How many times along the 26.2 did we rue that decision to take part?At 8am on Sunday I met Craig at Waterloo as we were both at the Blue start.The sun was getting hot and the tube train sweltering. At Blackheath we both commented on what a lovely day for a gentle stroll with the family, maybe a picnic and an ice-cream, and seriously questioned our sanity.I snook into Pen 1 where Craig was, having being denied access by the FLM Pen Gestapo, and we were very happy to be so close to the front.We convinced ourselves the best policy was to stay calm and work up to our intended race pace.The customary A&T handshake and then hooter went. Off we went at the speed of a thousand gazelles, despite our plan and we had to reign ourselves in a bit, bearing in mind the blazing sunshine. At one point Cragsy mentioned we were doing 6.10 min/miling, this was about the same time that the Runner's World official 7 min/mile pacer flew past us, weaving in and out of the masses (Isn't that what Runner's World tells you not to do in every issue?!- a word of warning to those considering following one at future marathons!)It wasn't long before we were feeling the effects of the sun and we were gelling up alot earlier than planned. My bald swede doesn't help matters in those conditions but I declined the temptation to wear a knotted hankie.Our 10k time was ok and we were settling into a rythm but before Tower Bridge we were both suffering more than expected.Once over half way, you can start the count down which helped psychologically and there was alot of shade to be found in the Isle of Dogs.I croaked last year between 18-20 miles and this was in the forefront of my mind as I pushed on towards the Highway and the approach to the embankment. Once on the embankment the crowds really push you on and everyone, at least once in their lifetime should experience it.My Dad was on a footbridge over the embankment and knowing he would be watching spurred me on more.I gave him a wave then gritted my teeth and pushed for the finish. I'd worked out that my target of sub 3.15 was out of reach but wanted to finish strong. The sight of the Union Jacks on the Mall was a real joy and I was totally elated as I crossed the line in 3.19:02.Real men don't cry they say but I was quite overwhelmed at the finish, probably more out of relief than achievement.I met up with Cragsy, but probably missed Jo as I as blubbing into my foil sheet.We both said 'never again!' then went off to meet our families. When I got home Sarah said 'I saw Nell McAndrew and thought you wouldn't be far behind her'...My real race plan had been rumbled. Well done to the bionic Pete, Steve, Criag and Jo.Thanks A&T for the club place and to everyone for their support and encouragement, but then again you wouldn't expect anything less from this fine club.Also thanks to my sponsors who helped raise more than £1200 quid for our wounded heroes. Until next time.....
Newton Le Willows Triathon - Written by Craig Bradbury
On a glorious Spring morning a record 5 Astley and Tyldesley members made the short journey to Newton-le-Willows for the first Triathlon of the season.First off was Eva,then Terry,then Bob and myself followed by Paul who could sadly only manage the Swim/Bike legs due to a lower leg problem.However he still produced amazing times which actually won his category for Swim/Bike.If he can regain full fitness in time for the Wetherby Triathlon in Three weeks he should do something very special. A Top Finish Paul !!
Terry showed that all his hard work through the Winter has paid off as he knocked an amazing Five minutes off the time when he did the event two years ago.{or was it due to the new Tri Suit he bought the day before !!} Bob finished a creditable third in his category despite not feeling A1 during the race due to a cold he developed mid week.
The performance of the day must surely go to Eva who was competing for the first time since being hit by a car whilst out training on her bike last Summer.Yet despite coming off her bike on a tight bend she still managed to complete the race, and with cuts and bruises she was still smiling afterwards.I would just like to say a big "thank you " to the three fellow competitors who rode straight past Eva after she came off her bike.They must be very proud of themselves.!!.
PAUL Swim 6.45 Bike 41.22
CRAIG 26th Swim 8.38 Bike 47.20 Run 28.16
Overall1.26.13
TERRY 48th Swim 9.20 Bike 48.52 Run 30.58
TERRY 48th Swim 9.20 Bike 48.52 Run 30.58
Overall 1.31.43
BOB 53rd Swim 8.22 Bike 48.23 Run 33.57
Overall 1.32.58
EVA 99th Swim 11.13 Bike 59.01 Run 40.46
EVA 99th Swim 11.13 Bike 59.01 Run 40.46
Overall 1.54.04
Sunshine, Spiderman and Paul Daniels - Must be the London Marathon - Written by Peter Chan
Well there are very few days in this country when you open your curtains and the sun bursts in and your heart sinks!!
After weeks of anticipation and build up for the athletes to be faced with around 60 degrees at 9am was a bit cruel, but excellent for the spectators of course. Staying out of town near Wembley stadium I set off around 7.30am for the start. It’s amazing how the train fills more and more at every stop with worried looking people. One guy from Cheltenham sat opposite me was giving a detailed explanation on the phone to someone back home of how he had not slept at all and how he thought he had contracted the S**ts as he spent the whole night on the toilet and then had been sick …. I turned my I-Pod up, disappeared into my hoodie and worked hard to keep my shoulders still from the smirking….. I mean …some poor soul had just woken up to this guys phone call.
Red start … I must say the new arrangements for the good for age club runners were really fantastic, our own little pen indeed complete with en-suite facilities … well a plastic porta-loo … AND sure enough Mr Cheltenham was in the queue already… and on the phone again – I jest thee not.
I met a couple of guys I knew at the start so had a good natter about running and how during the ease down this last week how they had picked up everything from Achilles problems to swine flu. When I mentioned I had been in plaster for 6 weeks with a bust ankle they sort of laughed like “Yeah right … that’s a good one…. I’m Brian and me wifes Brian too” …..“No … honest I have” I said …. They checked their watches in the kind of way you do when in the company of a serial liar who has just told a really enormous whopper…. So I changed the subject to the weather.
At 9.45 we were underway…I wonder why after all the expense, hype and build up they think the best starting device for the worlds biggest Marathon is a very loud farty sounding honker??…… The weather had gotten consistently sunnier but mercifully the humidity seemed quite low ie Sunny but not stifling hot, even so by this point you could really feel it warm on the skin and actually feel the heat coming up from the tarmac…. It was certainly a day to forget your race plan and be flexible, there was going to be a lot of casualties in the latter stages today. I made a very steady start keeping everything relaxed and controlled so was pleased to see the time still sub 19mins at 5km …….. around 200mtrs in the distance there looked like someone in a full length running suit …. Surely not!! ……. 5 miles in 30.25 and still ok and then I caught him …. It was some guy wearing a lightweight Spiderman outfit!!! …. Un-bloody-believeable… of course he was getting lots of crowd applause but runners around him were just glaring … it’s a bit like ‘Ronaldo syndrome’ … you don’t mind someone being pretty good but when they start taking the P**s it’s annoying.
Halfway came up in dead-on 81 mins and by then I was feeling already the fatigue building in my legs due to the lack on long runs and probably the heat of the day, so the mental games started … only a 7 mile run and then its 20 done and then you’re nearly home…. No more fancy dress runners thankfully but the fatigue was building and I figured it was more probably due to the heat as from 16 miles I was passing a lot of very low race numbers and AAA championship runners(a number also on their back). Canary wharf came up around 19 miles and I had started to feel a bit better actually. In fact the previous 6 miles had been a mix of feeling tough and feeling ok …. Weird … I noticed also that when in the shade my morale was a lot higher also … the sun was just strength sapping…. I ignored the blue line and tried to find as much shade as possible.
As we passed the switchback at the tower 22/14 miles there was a lot of tired looking faces coming the other way and you are grateful you have 4 to do and not 12 so that is a lift as well and then the crowds lining the Thames embankment really do carry you home … they must be collectively responsible for many a PB as the body really is screaming to rest by this point … Big Ben in sight again, and my concentration was just on keeping everything going as I could feel my quads and calf muscles starting to get those first twinges on cramp and in the Marathon you are never home till you cross the line … the turn at the end of Birdcage walk and the finish in sight …. As I was to say to Shaun on the phone later that day …I really did have a lot of doubts to being here after the injury, but to be there on the Mall and to have managed what turned out to be a tough day was much more than I could have expected. My finish time was 2hrs 46mins and 49 seconds …. Not my fastest Marathon but definitely the most satisfying by a long long way.
That’s my story but also my sincere Congratulations to all my team mates who completed the race, Steve, Paul, Craig, Jo and Liz.
The pics are me passing Parliament Square at just over 25 miles, (note the intense shadow) … and the other is me doing a Paul Daniels …. That pint disappeared in 5 seconds flat ……but as in the words of the great man….. “That’s Magic”
After weeks of anticipation and build up for the athletes to be faced with around 60 degrees at 9am was a bit cruel, but excellent for the spectators of course. Staying out of town near Wembley stadium I set off around 7.30am for the start. It’s amazing how the train fills more and more at every stop with worried looking people. One guy from Cheltenham sat opposite me was giving a detailed explanation on the phone to someone back home of how he had not slept at all and how he thought he had contracted the S**ts as he spent the whole night on the toilet and then had been sick …. I turned my I-Pod up, disappeared into my hoodie and worked hard to keep my shoulders still from the smirking….. I mean …some poor soul had just woken up to this guys phone call.
Red start … I must say the new arrangements for the good for age club runners were really fantastic, our own little pen indeed complete with en-suite facilities … well a plastic porta-loo … AND sure enough Mr Cheltenham was in the queue already… and on the phone again – I jest thee not.
I met a couple of guys I knew at the start so had a good natter about running and how during the ease down this last week how they had picked up everything from Achilles problems to swine flu. When I mentioned I had been in plaster for 6 weeks with a bust ankle they sort of laughed like “Yeah right … that’s a good one…. I’m Brian and me wifes Brian too” …..“No … honest I have” I said …. They checked their watches in the kind of way you do when in the company of a serial liar who has just told a really enormous whopper…. So I changed the subject to the weather.
At 9.45 we were underway…I wonder why after all the expense, hype and build up they think the best starting device for the worlds biggest Marathon is a very loud farty sounding honker??…… The weather had gotten consistently sunnier but mercifully the humidity seemed quite low ie Sunny but not stifling hot, even so by this point you could really feel it warm on the skin and actually feel the heat coming up from the tarmac…. It was certainly a day to forget your race plan and be flexible, there was going to be a lot of casualties in the latter stages today. I made a very steady start keeping everything relaxed and controlled so was pleased to see the time still sub 19mins at 5km …….. around 200mtrs in the distance there looked like someone in a full length running suit …. Surely not!! ……. 5 miles in 30.25 and still ok and then I caught him …. It was some guy wearing a lightweight Spiderman outfit!!! …. Un-bloody-believeable… of course he was getting lots of crowd applause but runners around him were just glaring … it’s a bit like ‘Ronaldo syndrome’ … you don’t mind someone being pretty good but when they start taking the P**s it’s annoying.
Halfway came up in dead-on 81 mins and by then I was feeling already the fatigue building in my legs due to the lack on long runs and probably the heat of the day, so the mental games started … only a 7 mile run and then its 20 done and then you’re nearly home…. No more fancy dress runners thankfully but the fatigue was building and I figured it was more probably due to the heat as from 16 miles I was passing a lot of very low race numbers and AAA championship runners(a number also on their back). Canary wharf came up around 19 miles and I had started to feel a bit better actually. In fact the previous 6 miles had been a mix of feeling tough and feeling ok …. Weird … I noticed also that when in the shade my morale was a lot higher also … the sun was just strength sapping…. I ignored the blue line and tried to find as much shade as possible.
As we passed the switchback at the tower 22/14 miles there was a lot of tired looking faces coming the other way and you are grateful you have 4 to do and not 12 so that is a lift as well and then the crowds lining the Thames embankment really do carry you home … they must be collectively responsible for many a PB as the body really is screaming to rest by this point … Big Ben in sight again, and my concentration was just on keeping everything going as I could feel my quads and calf muscles starting to get those first twinges on cramp and in the Marathon you are never home till you cross the line … the turn at the end of Birdcage walk and the finish in sight …. As I was to say to Shaun on the phone later that day …I really did have a lot of doubts to being here after the injury, but to be there on the Mall and to have managed what turned out to be a tough day was much more than I could have expected. My finish time was 2hrs 46mins and 49 seconds …. Not my fastest Marathon but definitely the most satisfying by a long long way.
That’s my story but also my sincere Congratulations to all my team mates who completed the race, Steve, Paul, Craig, Jo and Liz.
The pics are me passing Parliament Square at just over 25 miles, (note the intense shadow) … and the other is me doing a Paul Daniels …. That pint disappeared in 5 seconds flat ……but as in the words of the great man….. “That’s Magic”
Monday, 27 April 2009
Childrens Xmas Party
We are trying to gauge interest in a kids Xmas party probably early December on a Sunday afternoon.
The idea is to have a Santa Clause, give out kids presents, play games, maybe food and some music.
Brenda offered to do the bulk of the work, if you think its a good or bad idea take time to answer this weeks poll question.
The idea is to have a Santa Clause, give out kids presents, play games, maybe food and some music.
Brenda offered to do the bulk of the work, if you think its a good or bad idea take time to answer this weeks poll question.
This weeks poll
Last week we asked 'What is your favouite type of race' ?
Out of 27 votes Road won with a majority of 62% with trail/offroad 25%
X-Country, Fell and Track only recorded 1 vote each (3%).
This weeks question is by Brenda Wane please take a few seconds to vote.
Out of 27 votes Road won with a majority of 62% with trail/offroad 25%
X-Country, Fell and Track only recorded 1 vote each (3%).
This weeks question is by Brenda Wane please take a few seconds to vote.
Monthly Club Meeting 26/4/09 - Minutes by Terry Gardiner
Attendees – Mark Riches, Bob Stevens, Gary Stevens, Terry Gardiner, Shaun Moran, Brenda Wane, Peter Mulleady, Garry Baines, Alan Webb, Steve Foster, John Lee, Dave Owen, Arnold Melling, Craig Bradbury, Paul Mannion
Meeting started with introduction of Terry Gardiner as new club secretary.
Gin Pit 5 Race – Bob presented the takings for the April race. .
A big thank you to Bob and Gary for all their hard work organising the event.
Bob announced that he is hopeful of securing two new sponsors for the forthcoming races and will he will keep us informed of any progress.
Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride – This event is taking place on 12th July. The club will be taking part in conjunction with Wigan Hospice. They will organise transportation of bikes from Wigan to the start of event and also transportation of bikes from Blackpool to Wigan. . John Lee has offered to transport the bikes from Atherton to Wigan and also to pick them up again on Monday. This is dependant on numbers though (there is a limit to how many bikes he can squeeze into his van)
Cost is £15.00 if interested let Bob know ASAP.
Road Races – Garry thanked the members for the fantastic turnout at Radcliffe – Let’s keep it up for all the forthcoming races. We would also like to encourage more lady runners to take part in races as we feel that we could have a strong ladies team.
Next races are at Haigh Hall on May 13th, Chorley on June 3rd and Burnden (Smithils Serpent) on June 7th
CLGP – The Grand Prix is folding at the end of this season. A&T and Swinton are working together to keep it going. Up to now 8 clubs are interested in being part of a league. Proposals are currently being draw up regarding funding, officials and the structure of the league. Thanks to Garry Baines and Gary Stevens for all their hard work in this venture.
Inter Club Competition – The first of the competitions – A&T v Swinton RC will take place on 8th July at Gin Pit, with the return match at Swinton on 28th August. This will be a FUN event for ALL abilities and will also incorporate a social drink afterwards and presentation of a trophy to the winning club. The format of the event has yet to be decided, but will probably be some kind of relay. Garry Baines (where does he find the time?) is looking at this.
Fell Race – The next fell race is the Belmont 4.5 mile on 9th May. This is the race where Paul Butler famously quoted “NEVER AGAIN” although Peter Mulleady assures us that it is actually quite a nice race.
Christmas Do – Will be held at Miners Welfare on 19th Dec. The recent poll on the blog regarding a band, came back with a majority of people voting for a new band. There is one suggestion so far – Elephant Juice a local two piece with an excellent reputation. If there are any other suggestions please let Bob know.
There was a view expressed that as A&T have grown to 100 + members that the club may be too small if all members and partners were to attend. This may be the case, but if past years events are anything to go by then it probably will not be a problem as not all members actually attend the party. We will leave things as they are for now and re-evaluate after party if it proves to be a problem.
Benidorm and Keswick – There is a half marathon and a 10k this year in Benidorm. The races are on 29th Nov. The club will be going on 28th and returning on 1st Dec. If you are interested in going then let Peter Mulleady know.
There is also a half marathon at Keswick on 3rd May. Some hardy souls will be braving the elements and camping from 2nd to 4th may and as well as doing the half marathon they will also be scaling Skiddaw and Helvelin. If you are interested in testing yourself to the max and joining them, then contact Peter “mad” Mulleady
If that isn’t enough……..you can also join them on 20th and 21st June for little jaunt over the 3 Peaks Challenge – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon all done in 24hrs. Again…..see Peter for details.
Junior Run – We will be having a junior fun run on 16th May at 9.30, this is for children of club members and will help us gauge interest in having a junior section. The kids must have a parent or guardian with them during the course of the event and not just be left and picked up later. If you would like to bring your children along then please let Peter Mulleady know.
Race Referee – Would anybody like to be our nominated race referee? UK Athletics now insist that we have one for each of our races. There isn’t much to do, it just involves ticking a few boxes on a report after the race and dealing with any disputes (we have never had any at our races) There will be a training course available at the end of next month that will lead to a qualification. If you are interested contact Terry Gardiner
Coaching Courses – Is anybody interested in doing any coaching courses? The courses are for one day and are usually held at Sport City in Manchester. If you are interested then let Terry Gardiner know.
Sat / Sun morning runs – It has been proposed that if you have a favourite run or session then it can be incorporated into a Sat or Sun morning run. This will be done maybe once a month (Peter is banned from this – otherwise we will be running up mountains)
Bank Holiday Social Event – The club will be meeting in the George and Dragon in Tyldesley at 8.00pm on Sat 2nd May. Everyone welcome – please come along and make it a great night.
Meeting started with introduction of Terry Gardiner as new club secretary.
Gin Pit 5 Race – Bob presented the takings for the April race. .
A big thank you to Bob and Gary for all their hard work organising the event.
Bob announced that he is hopeful of securing two new sponsors for the forthcoming races and will he will keep us informed of any progress.
Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride – This event is taking place on 12th July. The club will be taking part in conjunction with Wigan Hospice. They will organise transportation of bikes from Wigan to the start of event and also transportation of bikes from Blackpool to Wigan. . John Lee has offered to transport the bikes from Atherton to Wigan and also to pick them up again on Monday. This is dependant on numbers though (there is a limit to how many bikes he can squeeze into his van)
Cost is £15.00 if interested let Bob know ASAP.
Road Races – Garry thanked the members for the fantastic turnout at Radcliffe – Let’s keep it up for all the forthcoming races. We would also like to encourage more lady runners to take part in races as we feel that we could have a strong ladies team.
Next races are at Haigh Hall on May 13th, Chorley on June 3rd and Burnden (Smithils Serpent) on June 7th
CLGP – The Grand Prix is folding at the end of this season. A&T and Swinton are working together to keep it going. Up to now 8 clubs are interested in being part of a league. Proposals are currently being draw up regarding funding, officials and the structure of the league. Thanks to Garry Baines and Gary Stevens for all their hard work in this venture.
Inter Club Competition – The first of the competitions – A&T v Swinton RC will take place on 8th July at Gin Pit, with the return match at Swinton on 28th August. This will be a FUN event for ALL abilities and will also incorporate a social drink afterwards and presentation of a trophy to the winning club. The format of the event has yet to be decided, but will probably be some kind of relay. Garry Baines (where does he find the time?) is looking at this.
Fell Race – The next fell race is the Belmont 4.5 mile on 9th May. This is the race where Paul Butler famously quoted “NEVER AGAIN” although Peter Mulleady assures us that it is actually quite a nice race.
Christmas Do – Will be held at Miners Welfare on 19th Dec. The recent poll on the blog regarding a band, came back with a majority of people voting for a new band. There is one suggestion so far – Elephant Juice a local two piece with an excellent reputation. If there are any other suggestions please let Bob know.
There was a view expressed that as A&T have grown to 100 + members that the club may be too small if all members and partners were to attend. This may be the case, but if past years events are anything to go by then it probably will not be a problem as not all members actually attend the party. We will leave things as they are for now and re-evaluate after party if it proves to be a problem.
Benidorm and Keswick – There is a half marathon and a 10k this year in Benidorm. The races are on 29th Nov. The club will be going on 28th and returning on 1st Dec. If you are interested in going then let Peter Mulleady know.
There is also a half marathon at Keswick on 3rd May. Some hardy souls will be braving the elements and camping from 2nd to 4th may and as well as doing the half marathon they will also be scaling Skiddaw and Helvelin. If you are interested in testing yourself to the max and joining them, then contact Peter “mad” Mulleady
If that isn’t enough……..you can also join them on 20th and 21st June for little jaunt over the 3 Peaks Challenge – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon all done in 24hrs. Again…..see Peter for details.
Junior Run – We will be having a junior fun run on 16th May at 9.30, this is for children of club members and will help us gauge interest in having a junior section. The kids must have a parent or guardian with them during the course of the event and not just be left and picked up later. If you would like to bring your children along then please let Peter Mulleady know.
Race Referee – Would anybody like to be our nominated race referee? UK Athletics now insist that we have one for each of our races. There isn’t much to do, it just involves ticking a few boxes on a report after the race and dealing with any disputes (we have never had any at our races) There will be a training course available at the end of next month that will lead to a qualification. If you are interested contact Terry Gardiner
Coaching Courses – Is anybody interested in doing any coaching courses? The courses are for one day and are usually held at Sport City in Manchester. If you are interested then let Terry Gardiner know.
Sat / Sun morning runs – It has been proposed that if you have a favourite run or session then it can be incorporated into a Sat or Sun morning run. This will be done maybe once a month (Peter is banned from this – otherwise we will be running up mountains)
Bank Holiday Social Event – The club will be meeting in the George and Dragon in Tyldesley at 8.00pm on Sat 2nd May. Everyone welcome – please come along and make it a great night.
Sunday, 26 April 2009
London Marathon Results
Results - News to follow in due course.
Click on names for split times and position.
CHAN, PETER G (GBR) 2:46:49
COLEMAN, STEVE J (GBR) 3:07:59
JACKSON, PAUL T (GBR) 3:19:02
IBORRA, JOANNE R (GBR) 3:20:32
LITTLE, CRAIG B (GBR) 3:27:42
HAYNES, ELIZABETH A (GBR) 3:57:33
Click on names for split times and position.
CHAN, PETER G (GBR) 2:46:49
COLEMAN, STEVE J (GBR) 3:07:59
JACKSON, PAUL T (GBR) 3:19:02
IBORRA, JOANNE R (GBR) 3:20:32
LITTLE, CRAIG B (GBR) 3:27:42
HAYNES, ELIZABETH A (GBR) 3:57:33
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Get well Soon Mainwaring !
If anyone doesn't already know John 'Captain Mainwaring' Lee went into hospital yesterday for his long awaited operation on a torn meniscus on his knee which has been giving him trouble since August 08.
We wish John a speedy recovery and no doubt he will be shouting at us all again very soon.
DIG IN JOHN !!!
Rivington Run - Sunday 26th April by Peter Mulleady
We are planning to go to Rivington for this Sunday’s morning run. Plan is for an easy run on the trails and a few Pike efforts for those that want to. Meeting at 9.15 at the station or 9.30 at Rivington upper barn.
Ian Hesketh Duathlon - Saturday 23rd May
If your looking at trying a Duathlon then i'd recommend this race, i may even do it myself.
This event is run annually in memory of Ian Hesketh who tragically died at the tender age of 27 in 2005. Ian was a member of Horwich RMI Harriers since he was 8 years old and Rivington was his favourite training area. He was a Lifeguard at a Leisure Centre in Bolton and Cycled to and from work every day.
The event centres entirely in the Rivington area, with Rivington Primary School as the Start and Transition Area. This makes for a more secure location than previous years for leaving bikes and belongings. The course suits both beginner and experienced athletes and the scenery is some of the best outside the Lake District.
The two 5k runs are almost entirely off road on tracks and paths and the cycle section is three laps with two small hills on each lap.
The event centres entirely in the Rivington area, with Rivington Primary School as the Start and Transition Area. This makes for a more secure location than previous years for leaving bikes and belongings. The course suits both beginner and experienced athletes and the scenery is some of the best outside the Lake District.
The two 5k runs are almost entirely off road on tracks and paths and the cycle section is three laps with two small hills on each lap.
See website for more details - http://www.memorialduathlon.co.uk/
Wednesday, 22 April 2009
Club Library
The club library was opened in Feb 09 after a few people thought it would a good idea for fellow runners to swop/borrow/lend books to each other.
Please email me if you have any running related books that we can add to the library.
If no books are added i will close it down due to lack of interest.
Please email me if you have any running related books that we can add to the library.
If no books are added i will close it down due to lack of interest.
The A&T Quiz
Back by popular demand and a bit more difficult (and no cheating) please have a go at the A&T quiz.
Only our PM and Jayne got 100% on last weeks quiz although there was a bit of controversy over the Benidorm Go-Karts Champion question, a rematch in Nov 09 will sort it once and for all !
Regards,
Bamber Gascoinge
Only our PM and Jayne got 100% on last weeks quiz although there was a bit of controversy over the Benidorm Go-Karts Champion question, a rematch in Nov 09 will sort it once and for all !
Regards,
Bamber Gascoinge
Monthly Meeting - Sunday 26th April
We are having our monthly meeting on Sunday 26th April at 8pm (committee meeting at 7.30pm). Hopefully we can keep the meeting to around 60 mins before moving on to the far more important stuff..beer !
Agenda reads like this...
Profits on the Gin Pit 5 (Bob)
Contacting unattached runners from the GP5 (Mark C)
Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride - enough interest (Bob)
Xmas do - do we want a band ? (Bob)
Road Races (Garry B)
Fell Races (John)
Benidorm and Keswich trips (Peter)
Would anybody like to volunteer to be our nominated race referee? (Training to follow, when UKA have sorted it)
We need to promote the inter club event with Swinton and try and get as many of the new runners (Tue/Thu) to take part.
Informal junior run on a Sat or Sun for friends / family of members to see if there is any interest (Peter)
AOB
Gary Stevens
Agenda reads like this...
Profits on the Gin Pit 5 (Bob)
Contacting unattached runners from the GP5 (Mark C)
Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride - enough interest (Bob)
Xmas do - do we want a band ? (Bob)
Road Races (Garry B)
Fell Races (John)
Benidorm and Keswich trips (Peter)
Would anybody like to volunteer to be our nominated race referee? (Training to follow, when UKA have sorted it)
We need to promote the inter club event with Swinton and try and get as many of the new runners (Tue/Thu) to take part.
Informal junior run on a Sat or Sun for friends / family of members to see if there is any interest (Peter)
AOB
Gary Stevens
Monday, 20 April 2009
A Newbie Runners guide to her 1hr 10km goal - Written by Joanne 'Gadget' Fairhurst
Yesterday I went along to the Derby 10km. My second ever after 12months of running and one of the many steps on my journey to my 1hr 10km goal. Entered this race of 3000 people way back in November last year. Never ever been to Derby before and my first run was through Sefton Park in Liverpool. Being a footy fan, I fancied finishing inside a footy stadium. Only really started training properly for this after joining AT+T way back end of Jan. Mentioned this race to Dave P a couple of weeks after I first joined the club. Should be a good race then if another AT+T member has already done it. Got up yesterday at 6am arrrgg - never got up that early for a run before. Sundays my lie in day, I’m not at work must be bonkers. Am usually an early afternoon runner me. “Am I going to be ok with this, considering I had an Asthma attack last Tue night and barely got a mile and a half down from the station before having to give up and walk back” Arrg nerves. Weather absolutely fantastic for a run. Forecast dry and not going to hit much more than 8 degrees centigrade.
Journey to Derby pretty uneventful. Note to self, chuck Sat Nav in bin, you can’t miss a big football stadium for god sake by nearly two miles. Panic would I find it in time, hmm hope so as I’m there an hour an half before the start.
Early yet, very few people about and a little chilly. Starbucks, great. Big coffee for me and chance to use the loo before the start of the warm up. Outside for the start of the warm up which must of consisted of 15mins of just jumping around like a raving loony. Added in myself a few short jogs and some static stretching. Made my way over to the starting pens and found the 60min plus section. Had a few nice friendly conversations with the locals, basically along the lines of “have you done this before ?” “is it flat ?” “anything I should know about the course” Had read the course description but not knowing the area, was running a bit in the dark. Off we go and over the starting mats. Hmm doesn’t look too bad. But arrg what is that I see at the 1km marker, A HILL NOOOOO. Made my way over that and then dropped down into the city center. Asked another runner if anymore hills and was told, hmm you have to go back over same bridge over railway on way back. ARRG Dave, you didn’t mention the hills sniff sniff. Still making the classic beginners mistake of going off way too fast for the first mile then running out of steam, so keep eye on Garmin and Heart Rate Monitor to keep consistent effort. Two coppers milling around on bikes in between the runners. Arrg panic, I can’t be last yet. Quick check over shoulder. Phewww still plenty of people behind me yet. I so want that bike mister, gimme gimme please. Even though the city center was still very quiet and no shops open, brilliant to see lots of locals supporting the race. Very windy for about 4 km around the city center then past the water station. Downhill now from KM 4.5-5.5. This is more like it J
Whats that in the distance. Am going the right way but lost sight of the group of runners in front. Quick glance over left shoulder. Oh no, there they are going up a huge flyover crossing the river Trent. Up Douggie here we come. Quick check of pace on Garmin. God must be doing something right as average pace not yet deteriorated as in the past. Back over the railway bridge at the beginning and drop down into the industrial estate next to pride Park. 3.5ish Km to go to the end and stadium in site. Some nice person had left the car with the time clock on it on one of the roundabouts. 46mins. Looking good. Pretty uneventful running round the industrial estate and then back along the cycle path towards the stadium. 9km dull aches start to go through left hip, I am so gonna be stiff tomorrow. Nearly there, just the run round the outside and then ¾ around the pitch to the finish. By this point was hurting and was getting to the point of no return. Note to self “its Anfield and your getting roared on by the Kop as you finish”. No time clock on finish so stops Garmin and it read 6.38miles 1hr 10min 2 sec. Hmm thought would wait for chip time as Garmin was probably slightly out, due to weaving around slower runners/walkers etc. Chip time also was 1 hr 10mins 2 sec. Was course a bit long perhaps ?? But what the hell I knocked 5mins 10sec off my time and today I can actually walk properly. Training must be going right somewhere. Roll on Bolton next week J
Journey to Derby pretty uneventful. Note to self, chuck Sat Nav in bin, you can’t miss a big football stadium for god sake by nearly two miles. Panic would I find it in time, hmm hope so as I’m there an hour an half before the start.
Early yet, very few people about and a little chilly. Starbucks, great. Big coffee for me and chance to use the loo before the start of the warm up. Outside for the start of the warm up which must of consisted of 15mins of just jumping around like a raving loony. Added in myself a few short jogs and some static stretching. Made my way over to the starting pens and found the 60min plus section. Had a few nice friendly conversations with the locals, basically along the lines of “have you done this before ?” “is it flat ?” “anything I should know about the course” Had read the course description but not knowing the area, was running a bit in the dark. Off we go and over the starting mats. Hmm doesn’t look too bad. But arrg what is that I see at the 1km marker, A HILL NOOOOO. Made my way over that and then dropped down into the city center. Asked another runner if anymore hills and was told, hmm you have to go back over same bridge over railway on way back. ARRG Dave, you didn’t mention the hills sniff sniff. Still making the classic beginners mistake of going off way too fast for the first mile then running out of steam, so keep eye on Garmin and Heart Rate Monitor to keep consistent effort. Two coppers milling around on bikes in between the runners. Arrg panic, I can’t be last yet. Quick check over shoulder. Phewww still plenty of people behind me yet. I so want that bike mister, gimme gimme please. Even though the city center was still very quiet and no shops open, brilliant to see lots of locals supporting the race. Very windy for about 4 km around the city center then past the water station. Downhill now from KM 4.5-5.5. This is more like it J
Whats that in the distance. Am going the right way but lost sight of the group of runners in front. Quick glance over left shoulder. Oh no, there they are going up a huge flyover crossing the river Trent. Up Douggie here we come. Quick check of pace on Garmin. God must be doing something right as average pace not yet deteriorated as in the past. Back over the railway bridge at the beginning and drop down into the industrial estate next to pride Park. 3.5ish Km to go to the end and stadium in site. Some nice person had left the car with the time clock on it on one of the roundabouts. 46mins. Looking good. Pretty uneventful running round the industrial estate and then back along the cycle path towards the stadium. 9km dull aches start to go through left hip, I am so gonna be stiff tomorrow. Nearly there, just the run round the outside and then ¾ around the pitch to the finish. By this point was hurting and was getting to the point of no return. Note to self “its Anfield and your getting roared on by the Kop as you finish”. No time clock on finish so stops Garmin and it read 6.38miles 1hr 10min 2 sec. Hmm thought would wait for chip time as Garmin was probably slightly out, due to weaving around slower runners/walkers etc. Chip time also was 1 hr 10mins 2 sec. Was course a bit long perhaps ?? But what the hell I knocked 5mins 10sec off my time and today I can actually walk properly. Training must be going right somewhere. Roll on Bolton next week J
This weeks poll
Thank you to the 31 people who voted this week when Bob asked 'What group should we have for the Xmas do'
81% wanted a group compared to 19% that didn't.
The 2008 band Glamorize got only 9% with the 2006 & 2007 band Asis getting 16% with 54% wanting a new band.
Personally I'd like the Pussy Cat Dolls !
Moving on to this weeks question by me, please give it a go.
81% wanted a group compared to 19% that didn't.
The 2008 band Glamorize got only 9% with the 2006 & 2007 band Asis getting 16% with 54% wanting a new band.
Personally I'd like the Pussy Cat Dolls !
Moving on to this weeks question by me, please give it a go.
Latest Road Champs Standings after Radcliffe
See latest Road Champs Leagues kindly supplied by
Garry 'The drugs don't work' Baines
Garry 'The drugs don't work' Baines
Next race is the Haigh Hall 4 - Wednesday 13th May
PREMIERSHIP - male
Simon Ford 116
Shaun Moran 84
Paul Mannion 84
Troy Topping 82
Mark Riches 78
Steve Coleman 75
Kevin Wright 65
Craig Bradbury 58
Gary Stevens 50
Arnold Melling 49
Peter Mulleady 39
Peter Chan 29
Scott Christey 27
Malc Collins 22
Paul Bohannon 21
CHAMPIONSHIP - male
Paul Jackson 75
Alan Webb 74
John Foulds 60
Terry Gardiner 46
Mark Ruscoe 41
Paul Butler 38
Garry Baines 31
Gary Atherton 31
Craig Little 26
Steve Foster 23
Robert Stevens 20
Steve Eldridge 17
Rufus Bennett 15
Terry Hughes 10
DIVISION 1 - male
Dan Reason 47
Dave Pritchard 35
Mike Reason 26
Mike Newell 23
Ray Taylor 20
Ian Hamilton 20
Paul Basnett 14
Mark Cheetham 10
Mark Crowley 8
Matthew Crompton 7
Kisson Doctor 3
Vets
Shaun Moran 84
Troy Topping 82
Mark Riches 78
Paul Jackson 75
Alan Webb 74
Steve Coleman 74
John Foulds 60
Arnold Melling 49
Terry Gardiner 46
Peter Mulleady 39
Paul Butler 38
Dave Pritchard 35
Garry Baines 31
Peter Chan 29
Scott Christey 27
Steve Foster 23
Malc Collins 22
Ray Taylor 20
Ian Hamilton 20
Robert Stevens 20
Rufus Bennett 15
Paul Basnett 14
Terry Hughes 10
Mark Cheetham 10
Mark Crowley 8
Shaun Moran 84
Troy Topping 82
Mark Riches 78
Paul Jackson 75
Alan Webb 74
Steve Coleman 74
John Foulds 60
Arnold Melling 49
Terry Gardiner 46
Peter Mulleady 39
Paul Butler 38
Dave Pritchard 35
Garry Baines 31
Peter Chan 29
Scott Christey 27
Steve Foster 23
Malc Collins 22
Ray Taylor 20
Ian Hamilton 20
Robert Stevens 20
Rufus Bennett 15
Paul Basnett 14
Terry Hughes 10
Mark Cheetham 10
Mark Crowley 8
PREMIERSHIP - female
Name
Mary Anne Tracey Aguera 90
Brenda Wane 58
Michaela Shaw 56
Joanne Iborra 30
CHAMPIONSHIP - female
Michelle Fairclough 108
Carole Baines 80
Jodie Wagstaffe 56
Jayne Shea 54
Vanessa Thomson 49
Eva Tuer 24
DIVISION 1 -female
Sonia Gadsby 25
Vets
Carole Baines 80
Brenda Wane 58
Sonia Gadsby 25
Eva Tuer 24
Carole Baines 80
Brenda Wane 58
Sonia Gadsby 25
Eva Tuer 24
Radcliffe 10km Thank you's by Brenda Wane
As Lady Captain i would like to say a big 'thank you' to all the lady runners who turned up and performed for the club at the Radcliffe 10km.
Long may it continue.
Long may it continue.
Radcliffe 10km Race Report - By Garry Baines
Well the Central Lancs Grand Prix finally, almost begrudgingly, let us have our trophies.
It was nice of the committee to organise such a slick awards ceremony.
Earlier in the day, over a third of our members (37 in all – another new record) competed in the challenging but enjoyable Radcliffe 10km.
Horwich appear to be setting their stall out to re-capture the number one spot from us and their runners occupied the first 3 positions in the race. This trend was broken by Paul Mannion, who came in 4th overall in a PB time (by one second) of 35’24”.
Peter Chan, still only a few weeks without his pot, and with the London Marathon looming, came 10th overall in 36’ 20” with Simon Ford and Shaun Moran, making up the team finishing 2nd overall.
Mark Riches ran consistently as ever for 38’ 44” followed by Troy “I am not a number” Topping whose beery exploits on the previous evening probably took their toll on the undulating course.
Arnold Melling took yet another V60 prize, with Craig Bradbury, Malc “Lotus Man” Collins and Steve Coleman hot on his heels.
Mary Anne produced another cracking performance with an excellent time of 40’ 50”, to finish as 2nd lady overall.
In his first 10km Rufus Bennett came home in 42’20”and Terry Gardiner clocked up another PB with 42’52” closely followed by an improving Paul Butler.
Yours truly got back to some racing after pounding the long miles and I was please to knock over 3 minutes off last year’s effort. Similarly Brenda Wane recorded her best time for this course.
Michaela Shaw and Jodie Wagstaffe fought out their own battle and whilst Michaela just got the nod on this occasion, Jodie grabbed a PB in 48’15”.
A delighted Dave Pritchard smashed his PB to record 48’48” and the smile was still on his face around the pubs of Atherton in the evening –maybe the beer had some influence on this too.
Carole Baines improved her 2008 time considerably and Matt Crompton continues to show signs of improvement with 51’07”.
A huge thanks to our members for their continued fantastic commitment to this competition. We must be the envy of many of the other running clubs competing in the area.
Next GLCP race is the 4 mile night race on Wednesday 13th May at Haigh Hall
Friday, 17 April 2009
Club Quiz
Try our club quiz by clicking the box on the right.
Note there is a bug on question 10, if you get the right answer it will say you got it wrong but it does correct itself at the end.
Note there is a bug on question 10, if you get the right answer it will say you got it wrong but it does correct itself at the end.
Power of 10 - UK Rankings
Click on the link below to find out which Astley & Tyldesley Road Runners feature in the UK Athletics Power of 10 Rankings.
Question - Who is our current best 'pound for pound' runner of 2009 ?
Answer - Stephen Coleman (90th best runner in the UK and 11th best V45 over Marathon)
http://www.thepowerof10.info/athletes/athleteslookup.aspx?surname=&firstname=&club=astley
Question - Who is our current best 'pound for pound' runner of 2009 ?
Answer - Stephen Coleman (90th best runner in the UK and 11th best V45 over Marathon)
http://www.thepowerof10.info/athletes/athleteslookup.aspx?surname=&firstname=&club=astley
Thursday, 16 April 2009
Club Meeting Sunday 26th April
It is our monthly club meeting on Sunday 26th April 8pm.
If you would like to add a topic to the agenda for discussion please email terrygardiner123@yahoo.co.uk
If you would like to add a topic to the agenda for discussion please email terrygardiner123@yahoo.co.uk
Wednesday, 15 April 2009
Rivington Pike Fell Race - Written by John Foulds
RIVINGTON PIKE FELL RACE
The second Club Fell Championship Race took place on a gloriously sunny Easter Saturday afternoon, 11 April 2009.
Seven A&T runners took up the 3.25 mile challenge, which doesn’t sound like much, but it is more or less up to the Pike and down again!
With Craig Bradbury, Alan Webb and Brenda Wane running the Salford 10K and me running the Calder Vale 10 mile the day before, I think we were all questioning our sanity!
The race started at the Cenotaph at Lever Park Avenue, turned right just before Rivington and Blackrod High School, then straight up to the Pike and back the same way.
The support from A&T members, Gary and Carole Baines, Ian (bacon mon) Hamilton and Steve Foster half way up the hill was very welcome.
The results were:
1st Rob Hope Pudsey & Bramley 17.25
59th Steve White V40 22.44 (1st A&T)
68th Mary-Tracey Ann Aguera L 23.11 (2nd A&T)
83rd Peter Mulleady V45 23.57 (3rd A&T)
104th Craig Bradbury 24.46 (4th A&T)
117th John Foulds V45 25.25 (5th A&T)
128th Alan Webb V40 25.46 (6th A&T)
144th Brenda Wane L45 26.14 (7th A&T)
(Brenda was once again first vet 45 Lady)
Ron Hill – 30.40
234 runners.
Next fell race Saturday 9th May 1.15pm Belmont Winter Hill 4.5 miles
Tuesday, 14 April 2009
Air Products 10km - Written By Steve Coleman
On Sunday 12th April, I did the Air products 10k, which was sold as a good PB course. Not a bad run but the distances were often way out. 3K came in at 3.40 and 4 at 4k so some must have thought they were doing well. Passed the 10k mark at 38.10 but the run went on for another 200 metres! Well got us all looking at out GP watches. Came in at 38.49 and 53rd of 312.
Steve Coleman
Steve Coleman
Monday, 13 April 2009
Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride - Sunday 12th July
We are thinking of taking part in the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride as per 2007.
The ride starts at Old Trafford (Man Utd) Football Stadium and finishes at the South Promenade Blackpool which is new for 2009, approx 60 miles.
This really is a great day out for all abilities of cyclist, if your fit enough to run a 10km you can do this with a few weeks training.
All monies raised are for Christies Hospital.
No doubt there will be beer and food planned for later in the day to help celebrate the achievement.
At this moment we are gauging interest so please speak to Bob or Craig B and if there is enough interest we will arrange it.
Click for more details http://www.bike-events.com/Ride.aspx?id=193
This weeks poll !
Thank you to all 28 of you that answered Mark Riches question 'what is your favourite training session' ?
42% of you said easy/steady run, hills 17%, efforts and tempo run 14% and track 10%.
Please answer this weeks question by Bob Stevens
42% of you said easy/steady run, hills 17%, efforts and tempo run 14% and track 10%.
Please answer this weeks question by Bob Stevens
Sunday, 12 April 2009
Brick Sessions
Every fancied trying a Duathlon (run/bike/run) or a Triathlon (swim/bike/run) then you should consider doing brick sessions.
What is a brick?
Duathlon involves running, biking and then running again without resting. It is much more demanding on the muscles and skeletal system than triathlon. For those of you that suffer badly with cramps, tight muscles and a general feeling of an inability to run fluently in the second run, you will need to practice training these disciplines back to back.
It is recommended that you repeat the back to back sessions more that you do in a duathlon, for example: run/bike/run/bike/run. Overloading the muscles will force them to adapt quicker and become stronger.
Brick sessions have benefits on different levels:
They are time efficient, combining running and cycling into one session
They also force you to practice your transitions, which is often a neglected part of duathlon training.
Brick work teaches the muscles to adapt to the challenge of run bike run in a way that no other session can.
We will be starting 'brick session' work outs from Monday 17th May - keep posted to the blog.
What is a brick?
Duathlon involves running, biking and then running again without resting. It is much more demanding on the muscles and skeletal system than triathlon. For those of you that suffer badly with cramps, tight muscles and a general feeling of an inability to run fluently in the second run, you will need to practice training these disciplines back to back.
It is recommended that you repeat the back to back sessions more that you do in a duathlon, for example: run/bike/run/bike/run. Overloading the muscles will force them to adapt quicker and become stronger.
Brick sessions have benefits on different levels:
They are time efficient, combining running and cycling into one session
They also force you to practice your transitions, which is often a neglected part of duathlon training.
Brick work teaches the muscles to adapt to the challenge of run bike run in a way that no other session can.
We will be starting 'brick session' work outs from Monday 17th May - keep posted to the blog.
Friday, 10 April 2009
Duathlon Training - Monday 20th April
Sergeant Bob Stevens will be drilling his troops again on Monday 20th April for more duathlon training starting at the Leigh Harriers track at 6pm.
The session consist of a 6 mile bike followed by 1.25 mile run around the track x 3 sets. (18 miles cycling and 3.75 mile run)
Feel free to do 1 or 2 sets.
I personally have done this session and its really good fun !!
Speak to Bob or Craig B for more information.
The session consist of a 6 mile bike followed by 1.25 mile run around the track x 3 sets. (18 miles cycling and 3.75 mile run)
Feel free to do 1 or 2 sets.
I personally have done this session and its really good fun !!
Speak to Bob or Craig B for more information.
More Gin Pit 5 Pics
Please see the link below for more Gin Pit pictures from last Sunday.
http://www.digitalfeel.co.uk/portfolio53855.html
http://www.digitalfeel.co.uk/portfolio53855.html
Salford 10km
15 A&T Road Runners travelled to Salford for the annual Good Friday 10km, a 2 lapped flat and fast course.
On a great day for many of our runners we welcomed a new member to the sub 40 club with Paul Jackson showing premiership qualities to finish in 38.48 just behind Craig Bradbury and Scott Christie who both clocked 38.29. Stephen Coleman followed is brilliant sub 3 hour at Blackpool last week with another sensational time of 38.01 with Shaun Moran once again leading the way with another solid 36.06.
Gary Atherton continued his rise up the rankings to record 40.27 followed by Steve Foster 42.08, Alan Webb 42.48, Dan Reason 43.14, Robert Stevens 43.49, Michael Reason 44.39 and Ian Hamilton 45.35.
A well done must be said to Matty Crompton 49.10 and Paul Basnett 50.34 who both did sizable personal best.
Brenda Wane was our only female finisher recording 44.11.
Results Link http://www.ukresults.net/2009/salf10k.html
On a great day for many of our runners we welcomed a new member to the sub 40 club with Paul Jackson showing premiership qualities to finish in 38.48 just behind Craig Bradbury and Scott Christie who both clocked 38.29. Stephen Coleman followed is brilliant sub 3 hour at Blackpool last week with another sensational time of 38.01 with Shaun Moran once again leading the way with another solid 36.06.
Gary Atherton continued his rise up the rankings to record 40.27 followed by Steve Foster 42.08, Alan Webb 42.48, Dan Reason 43.14, Robert Stevens 43.49, Michael Reason 44.39 and Ian Hamilton 45.35.
A well done must be said to Matty Crompton 49.10 and Paul Basnett 50.34 who both did sizable personal best.
Brenda Wane was our only female finisher recording 44.11.
Results Link http://www.ukresults.net/2009/salf10k.html
Wednesday, 8 April 2009
Super Steve 'Powers' to a sub 3 !
Steve Coleman produced arguably the best performance of his life to record a sub 3 hour time in the Blackpool Marathon knocking almost 15 Min's off his PB.
Steve Clocked 2.57 to finish 21st from 678 runners.
Mention should also be made of Julie Jenkins in the 1/2 marathon who recorded 2:19:26 in her comeback run. We look forward to seeing more of Julie in the months ahead.
Full results http://www.ukresults.net/2009/blackmara.html
Mention should also be made of Julie Jenkins in the 1/2 marathon who recorded 2:19:26 in her comeback run. We look forward to seeing more of Julie in the months ahead.
Full results http://www.ukresults.net/2009/blackmara.html
Membership hits 100 !
Yesterday (07/04) Tracy Smith became our 100th member of the year.
This is the first time the club has ever had 100 members.
This is the first time the club has ever had 100 members.
Tuesday, 7 April 2009
A Sunny Day in Blackpool - Written by Matt Crompton
On Sunday Gary Atherton and me travelled to Blackpool for our maiden half marathons. The sun was shining down on us and the other 2000 people who had made the effort. We were glad to get underway at 9 o clock, gel sachets tight in our hands!! The build up and anticipation since we challenged ourselves to doing this nearly 3 months ago was finally over. After a mile or so we were both well into out stride, Gary looking very comfortable ( i could just about make him out with my binoculars in the distance), and me taking it nice and steady. Gary finished in 1 hour 34 mins and i managed 1 hour 53 mins 43 secs. We were both happy with the times to say the least.
After the race we both partied the evening away in Blackpool with our ever faithful cheerleading team and took them on the pleasure beach on the Monday to blow the cob webs away. I believe several others did the half as well (i know Julie Jenkins was one) but im not sure of times etc.
After the race we both partied the evening away in Blackpool with our ever faithful cheerleading team and took them on the pleasure beach on the Monday to blow the cob webs away. I believe several others did the half as well (i know Julie Jenkins was one) but im not sure of times etc.
Rivington Fell Race - Written by John Foulds
RIVINGTON PIKE FELL RACE
Just to remind everyone that the Rivington Pike Fell Race, is on Saturday, 11 April 2009, which is a Club race.
Registration at The Crown Hotel, Horwich, 3.00 pm start, 3.25 mile, 800 ft ascent
Just to remind everyone that the Rivington Pike Fell Race, is on Saturday, 11 April 2009, which is a Club race.
Registration at The Crown Hotel, Horwich, 3.00 pm start, 3.25 mile, 800 ft ascent
Gin Pit 5 - Please rate the race
Anyone who did the race on Sunday (and those who didn't!!) please take 2 minutes of your time to rate the race on the Runners World website - just remember to tick excellent in the overall race category as this will increase our chances of getting in the top 100 races of 2009 !
http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/events/ratingsall.asp?sp=&v=2&ugn=741&en=47822
Click the link above to vote
http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/events/ratingsall.asp?sp=&v=2&ugn=741&en=47822
Click the link above to vote
Monday, 6 April 2009
This weeks poll !
A record 32 votes for this weeks question however when you mention social, curry and beer to a A&T runner its like a red rag to a bull !!
Bob asked 'What should be the next social event' ?
It was a massive victory for pub crawl up town with 75% of the vote, family fun night and karaoke night for 3% with poor old curry night getting 2%.
I bet the pubs up Tyldesley are rubbing their hands in anticipation of a very profitable night !
This weeks question is by Mark Riches (X-Country Captain), please take 5 seconds to vote
Bob asked 'What should be the next social event' ?
It was a massive victory for pub crawl up town with 75% of the vote, family fun night and karaoke night for 3% with poor old curry night getting 2%.
I bet the pubs up Tyldesley are rubbing their hands in anticipation of a very profitable night !
This weeks question is by Mark Riches (X-Country Captain), please take 5 seconds to vote
Gin Pit 5 - Pictures
Please feel free to click the link below to see the Gin Pit 5 pictures.
http://www.kodakgallery.co.uk/ShareLanding.action?c=lxpbs1t.27w98sph5&x=0&y=9b5gsi&localeid=en_GB
I cannot post the fun run link due to the file containing pictures of minors however if you email your know your name, race number and post code so i can check the entry form and then send you the link.
Thank you to Joanne 'Gadget' Fairhust for the pictures
http://www.kodakgallery.co.uk/ShareLanding.action?c=lxpbs1t.27w98sph5&x=0&y=9b5gsi&localeid=en_GB
I cannot post the fun run link due to the file containing pictures of minors however if you email your know your name, race number and post code so i can check the entry form and then send you the link.
Thank you to Joanne 'Gadget' Fairhust for the pictures
Gin Pit 5
Following on from Garry's news report (see last post) i'd like to say 'Thank you' to all the volunteers who helped yesterday without you the race just could not exist.
We had some minor problems with the vet prizes as for some reason the older vets beat the younger vets and with UK Results way of producing the results some vets got promoted...sorry Bacon Mon !!!
Thank you to Andy Burnham MP for helping with the presentation BUT did anyone see Gordon Brown back from the G20 and finishing strong in 72nd !!! (see the results).
I have copied some email / comments from runners so far....
"Usual excellent standard as expected, many thanks." by Lazy Sid
"1st time of running and would do it again. Friendly, encouraging marshalls and nice course to boot!" by Kathryn
"The first time I have run this event. I have to say that it was very well organised and the marshalls were all excellent. Thanks guys. If you are looking for a good trail race to get you started... DO THIS ONE! Little dissaponted with the momento, but I guess thats not what we do it for, eh!?! by Lee Brown
"A lot of club runners in this one, but still felt friendly to the beginners and unattached. Glorious weather made the run better. A memento with the name of the run on it would have been nice as in previous years. Credit Crunch biting? by Peter Medicott
"This is the 4th time i have done this race and it never fails to tick all the boxes. Low entry fee, great course and fantastic marshals with a free momento to boot....Well done to all the A&T organisers." by Bobfrench1
We had some minor problems with the vet prizes as for some reason the older vets beat the younger vets and with UK Results way of producing the results some vets got promoted...sorry Bacon Mon !!!
Thank you to Andy Burnham MP for helping with the presentation BUT did anyone see Gordon Brown back from the G20 and finishing strong in 72nd !!! (see the results).
I have copied some email / comments from runners so far....
"Usual excellent standard as expected, many thanks." by Lazy Sid
"1st time of running and would do it again. Friendly, encouraging marshalls and nice course to boot!" by Kathryn
"The first time I have run this event. I have to say that it was very well organised and the marshalls were all excellent. Thanks guys. If you are looking for a good trail race to get you started... DO THIS ONE! Little dissaponted with the momento, but I guess thats not what we do it for, eh!?! by Lee Brown
"A lot of club runners in this one, but still felt friendly to the beginners and unattached. Glorious weather made the run better. A memento with the name of the run on it would have been nice as in previous years. Credit Crunch biting? by Peter Medicott
"This is the 4th time i have done this race and it never fails to tick all the boxes. Low entry fee, great course and fantastic marshals with a free momento to boot....Well done to all the A&T organisers." by Bobfrench1
Sunday, 5 April 2009
Gin Pit 5 - By Garry Baines
In near perfect conditions, our own Paul Mannion stormed to a comfortable victory in the first Gin Pit 5 race of the season on Sunday.
Leading from the front, Paul’s time of 28’ 08” was 13 seconds ahead of Lostock’s Keith Thomas in 2nd place. 3rd place belonged to Olivia Walwyn of Altrincham and with it a new ladies’ course record of 28’ 39”.
Seasoned campaigner Steve Nolan of Horwich came in 4th, with Simon Ford following in 5th place in a time of 29’21”, having earlier circum-navigated the course with a wheelbarrow.
Peter Chan, only 3 weeks out of plaster, ran to Gin Pit from his home in Hindley, completed the race in 6th position and then ran back home in preparation for his intended assault on the London Marathon in 3 weeks time. Staggering! His performance ensured that A&T took the overall team prize, although there is some doubt as to whether the bottle of red wine will actually reach him.
Second lady runner, a familiar face to A&T members, was Laura Riches of Leigh Harriers competing as a junior with a time of 31’29”.
Arnold Melling came 10th overall and took the V55 prize. There was some confusion as to why Arnold qualified for a prize in this category as he is over 60. Basically the prize goes to Arnold as in this case there was nobody aged 55 to 59 who was faster than him. He is then excluded from winning the V60 prize, which goes to the next fastest finisher over 60. Clear as mud!
Malc Collins clocked 31’51” in his inimitable style, and in his first race, local restaurateur Rufus Bennett, served up a promising performance to come home in 34 mins dead. It was good to see Alan Hilton back in an A&T vest making a welcome come back after a long layoff .
Club stalwarts Ian Hamilton, Mark Crowley and Paul Basnett were amongst the mid pack runners and the race provided a first outing for many of our new recruits, including Sarah Jackson, Lyndsey Carter, Leanne Grainger, Paul Lees, Clare Unsworth, Jill Mcdermott and Jenny Parkinson.
The fun run was won by Sam Boardman of Horwich RMI but strong performances were recorded by a number of young Leigh Harriers including Will Banks, Tyler Colderley, Lauren O’Malley, Hannah O’Malley, Cerys Baines and Jenny Taylor.
Again a number of A&T first-timers were out on the course, amongst others Christine Mulroney, Hannah Bowring, Colette Isherwood, Andrea Goodwin, Viv Greig and Zoe Quarmby.
Prizes were presented in the Welfare Club by Andy Burnham MP.
The event serves as a major fund-raising exercise for the Club and would not be possible without a large number of volunteers. Particularly appreciated are the efforts by Gary Stevens, the Race organiser, Bob Stevens as Starter and Race commentator, Craig Bradbury and his team of Marshalls, John Lee who supervised the course preparation, the timer-keepers, the ladies in the kitchen who kept the pasties and tea flowing, and Mary Anne, who offered a welcome massage service to the runners and to the odd non-competing Coach –no names mentioned. There are many other people to thank, too numerous to mention individually, who got involved in the successful organisation of the event.
Results link http://www.ukresults.net/2009/ginpit04.html
Story to follow
Leading from the front, Paul’s time of 28’ 08” was 13 seconds ahead of Lostock’s Keith Thomas in 2nd place. 3rd place belonged to Olivia Walwyn of Altrincham and with it a new ladies’ course record of 28’ 39”.
Seasoned campaigner Steve Nolan of Horwich came in 4th, with Simon Ford following in 5th place in a time of 29’21”, having earlier circum-navigated the course with a wheelbarrow.
Peter Chan, only 3 weeks out of plaster, ran to Gin Pit from his home in Hindley, completed the race in 6th position and then ran back home in preparation for his intended assault on the London Marathon in 3 weeks time. Staggering! His performance ensured that A&T took the overall team prize, although there is some doubt as to whether the bottle of red wine will actually reach him.
Second lady runner, a familiar face to A&T members, was Laura Riches of Leigh Harriers competing as a junior with a time of 31’29”.
Arnold Melling came 10th overall and took the V55 prize. There was some confusion as to why Arnold qualified for a prize in this category as he is over 60. Basically the prize goes to Arnold as in this case there was nobody aged 55 to 59 who was faster than him. He is then excluded from winning the V60 prize, which goes to the next fastest finisher over 60. Clear as mud!
Malc Collins clocked 31’51” in his inimitable style, and in his first race, local restaurateur Rufus Bennett, served up a promising performance to come home in 34 mins dead. It was good to see Alan Hilton back in an A&T vest making a welcome come back after a long layoff .
Club stalwarts Ian Hamilton, Mark Crowley and Paul Basnett were amongst the mid pack runners and the race provided a first outing for many of our new recruits, including Sarah Jackson, Lyndsey Carter, Leanne Grainger, Paul Lees, Clare Unsworth, Jill Mcdermott and Jenny Parkinson.
The fun run was won by Sam Boardman of Horwich RMI but strong performances were recorded by a number of young Leigh Harriers including Will Banks, Tyler Colderley, Lauren O’Malley, Hannah O’Malley, Cerys Baines and Jenny Taylor.
Again a number of A&T first-timers were out on the course, amongst others Christine Mulroney, Hannah Bowring, Colette Isherwood, Andrea Goodwin, Viv Greig and Zoe Quarmby.
Prizes were presented in the Welfare Club by Andy Burnham MP.
The event serves as a major fund-raising exercise for the Club and would not be possible without a large number of volunteers. Particularly appreciated are the efforts by Gary Stevens, the Race organiser, Bob Stevens as Starter and Race commentator, Craig Bradbury and his team of Marshalls, John Lee who supervised the course preparation, the timer-keepers, the ladies in the kitchen who kept the pasties and tea flowing, and Mary Anne, who offered a welcome massage service to the runners and to the odd non-competing Coach –no names mentioned. There are many other people to thank, too numerous to mention individually, who got involved in the successful organisation of the event.
Results link http://www.ukresults.net/2009/ginpit04.html
Story to follow
Thursday, 2 April 2009
Kewsick Camping Trip - By Pete Mulleady
The Keswick half marathon is on the 3/5 (Bank holiday weekend). Quite a few of us from the club are running it and it should be a really enjoyable scenic (and undulating!) run. As we’re probably not going to get in the Snowdon race (full) then I thought this would be our chance to get some camping in. We’ll probably travel up Friday night or Saturday morning and come back Monday. If you fancy coming and/or know some good campsites (not too good or they won’t let us in) near Keswick let me know. One of our 3 peak veterans suggested we get some training in while we are there so we’ll probably do Helvellyn and/or Scaffell Pike on the Sat/Mon. So the options are endless, you could bob up and do one thing or go the whole hog and do everything. Oh there is on further option, drinking, I think we may have some time for a bit of that!
Cheers
Pete
Cheers
Pete
Liver Hill Fell Race - Written by John Foulds
LIVER HILL 5-MILE FELL RACE
The first Club fell race of the year was run on Tuesday, 31 March in near perfect conditions.
It was a clear night with no wind , mild temperatures and ground not too boggy (except I managed to find the deepest bog on the course and went in up to my waist).
Just a small band of A&T made the journey up to Marl Pits, Rawtenstall, 5 male and 2 female, but a quality turnout, as we were 4th male team overall.
The first four runners all came within seconds of each other. First A&T was Paul Jackson, 31st overall, in a time of 40.10; second, Peter Mulleady, 38th overall, 40.45; third, Steve White, 40th overall, 40.51; first lady, Mary Anne Tracey Aguera, 2nd lady overall, 40.53.
Terry Gardiner must have enjoyed his first ever fell race as he was asking about the dates for some more
The first Club fell race of the year was run on Tuesday, 31 March in near perfect conditions.
It was a clear night with no wind , mild temperatures and ground not too boggy (except I managed to find the deepest bog on the course and went in up to my waist).
Just a small band of A&T made the journey up to Marl Pits, Rawtenstall, 5 male and 2 female, but a quality turnout, as we were 4th male team overall.
The first four runners all came within seconds of each other. First A&T was Paul Jackson, 31st overall, in a time of 40.10; second, Peter Mulleady, 38th overall, 40.45; third, Steve White, 40th overall, 40.51; first lady, Mary Anne Tracey Aguera, 2nd lady overall, 40.53.
Terry Gardiner must have enjoyed his first ever fell race as he was asking about the dates for some more
Other results:
1st overall Jordan Beard 33.42 u18 Rossendale
1st/31st Paul Jackson 40.10 V40
2nd/38th Peter Mulleady 40.45 V45
3rd/40th Steve White 40.51 V40
1st/2nd lady Mary Anne Tracey Aguera 40.53 L
4th/61st Steve Foster 42.56 V45
5th/75th John Foulds 44.39 V45
6th/81st Alan Webb 45.23 V40
7th/88th Terry Gardiner 46.00 V45
2nd/9th lady Brenda Wane 47.27 LV45
At the finish we all received a crème egg which was not bad considering the entry was free.
Well done to everyone!
John Foulds
Fell Captain
Wednesday, 1 April 2009
Notes from Stuart Stokes refarding his Lifestyle and Nutrition
Stuart Stokes about LifeStyle & Nutrition………..
LifeStyle:
1. Osmosis Water (Use)
2. Deodrant Spray - Aluminium (Avoid)
3. Microwaves (Avoid)
4. Mobile Phones (Avoid)
5. Steel Pans (Avoid)
6. Cinemas (Avoid)
7. Go Organic
Strength Work:
Concentrate on - Lower Back/Stomach/Quads/Gluts/Hamstring/Calfs - Dead Lifts, Deep Squats, Lunges, Step ups, Dips, Chins, Sledge Work
Supplements:
1. Iron
2. Magnesium
3. Folic Acid
4. Vitamin C
5. Zinc
6. Vitmain E
7. Fish Oil
8. R-Lipoic Acid (Controls Blood Sugar, Insulin, Anti-Oxidant)
9. CLA (Fat Burning, Reduce Inflammation)
10. PS-100 PhosphatidylSerine (Brain function, Stress)
11. Glutathione (Drop off point for hormones)
12. Dessicated Liver
13. Alpha Lipoic Acid - Take Before Sessions
Recovery:
1. L-Glutamine (Help gut, prevent muscle wastage)
2. Protein - Grass Fed (No Hormone Injections/ Not exposed to heat/ Not a by-product)
3. Vitargo - Glycogen
4. Phour Salts
5. Mega Greens
6. Electrolyte
7. Muscle Synthesis
8. Muscle Recovery
Supplier - Nutrition Geeks (Don Maree 01865 338045) - Mention Stuart by name
LifeStyle:
1. Osmosis Water (Use)
2. Deodrant Spray - Aluminium (Avoid)
3. Microwaves (Avoid)
4. Mobile Phones (Avoid)
5. Steel Pans (Avoid)
6. Cinemas (Avoid)
7. Go Organic
Strength Work:
Concentrate on - Lower Back/Stomach/Quads/Gluts/Hamstring/Calfs - Dead Lifts, Deep Squats, Lunges, Step ups, Dips, Chins, Sledge Work
Supplements:
1. Iron
2. Magnesium
3. Folic Acid
4. Vitamin C
5. Zinc
6. Vitmain E
7. Fish Oil
8. R-Lipoic Acid (Controls Blood Sugar, Insulin, Anti-Oxidant)
9. CLA (Fat Burning, Reduce Inflammation)
10. PS-100 PhosphatidylSerine (Brain function, Stress)
11. Glutathione (Drop off point for hormones)
12. Dessicated Liver
13. Alpha Lipoic Acid - Take Before Sessions
Recovery:
1. L-Glutamine (Help gut, prevent muscle wastage)
2. Protein - Grass Fed (No Hormone Injections/ Not exposed to heat/ Not a by-product)
3. Vitargo - Glycogen
4. Phour Salts
5. Mega Greens
6. Electrolyte
7. Muscle Synthesis
8. Muscle Recovery
Supplier - Nutrition Geeks (Don Maree 01865 338045) - Mention Stuart by name
Meeting 29th March
Last Sunday's meeting was dominated by the Peter Riley and Stuart Stokes Q and A session. I'm sure all in attendance would agree it was really fascinating to hear the dedication that these lads go to just improve their Pb's by just a few seconds !
There was no meeting as such due to lack of time but the committee chatted for a few minutes to agree on a few points.
1) Terry Gardiner approved as the new Club Secretary - welcome Terry.
2) Benidorm trip on for 29/11 (half marathon & 10K)
3) Camping trip and optional Keswick half marathon 3/5
There was no meeting as such due to lack of time but the committee chatted for a few minutes to agree on a few points.
1) Terry Gardiner approved as the new Club Secretary - welcome Terry.
2) Benidorm trip on for 29/11 (half marathon & 10K)
3) Camping trip and optional Keswick half marathon 3/5
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