Attendees – Bob Stevens, Mark Riches, Peter Mulleady, Brenda Wane, Garry Baines, Terry Gardiner, Shaun Moran, Jayne Shea, Chris Corbett, Paul Mannion, Malc Collins, Crag Bradbury, Alan Webb, Mark Ruscoe, Sharon Adair, Joanne Fairhurst, Arnold Melling, Hannah Bowring, Andrea Goodwin.
Peter opened the meeting and thanked everybody for coming and also welcomed the first time attendees.
Events Organiser Role – It was put to the committee that the role of Events Organiser should be a committee role and that as Sharon Adair was doing such a fantastic job she should take up this position. This was agreed upon unanimously by the committee and with immediate effect we would like to welcome Sharon on to the A&T committee in the role of Events Organiser.
Kids Christmas Party – A couple of months ago, a poll on the blog revealed that a number of people thought that a Xmas party would be a good idea. There is a date available – 13th Dec but before any definite plans can be made, the club need to know how much genuine interest there would be. If you have children that would like to come to a Xmas party can you please contact either Brenda or Sharon so that they can get an idea of numbers and start working out costs. Can you also let them know if you would be happy to contribute a fee per child.
brenda.wane1961@yahoo.co.uk
sharonandwarren@tiscali.co.uk
Blackpool Bike Ride – Eight A&T members will be taking part in the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride on 8th July.
The club would like to ask if there are two volunteers that could pick up the riders from Atherton train station at 08.00 and take them to the start of the ride at Old Trafford and then to pick them up from Wigan and bring them back to Atherton after the event. (It is the riders only – not their bikes, they have already been sorted) If you can help could you please let Bob know asap.
The riders will all be riding as a team and will be asking for sponsors as a team – not as individuals. All money raised is going to Wigan Hospice.
http://www.justgiving.com/astleyrunners/
Thirsty Three Race / Social event July 5th – As a result of a poll on the blog, a coach has been booked to transport runners to and from the venue. Unfortunately the coach is only half full at the moment and this means that the costs to those that are on it are going to increase. If you are going to do the race or even if you just fancy an afternoon out – there will be beer !! Can you please let Shaun know ASAP or Garry Baines garrybaines@aol.com
A&T v Swinton Challenge - A reminder about the first of our challenge matches against Swinton RC. This event is on Wed 8th July and is a friendly, low key, no pressure event followed by a social drink in the Miners Welfare afterwards. (There are full details on an earlier blog entry)
Swinton are a growing club like ourselves and also have a lot of new members (male and female) We would love to have a good turn out at this event especially from the Tue/Thu group. It will be a great introduction to competition for all new runners and it is only a two mile run.
Next CLGP race – The next Central Lancs Grand race is the Horwich Jubilee Series on July 15th. We hope to have yet another excellent turn out for this race.
CLGP 2010 – Thanks to a lot of hard work from Garry Baines and Gary Stevens the Central Lancs Grand Prix will be continuing next year in the same format. Wesham Roadrunners will be replacing Newburgh Nomads.
Runners are asked to make sure that you wear club vests when competing in CLGP races.
Bolton Tickets – After our impressive turnout at the Smithils Serpent race on June 7th, Burnden Roadrunners very generously gave us two tickets to any home match at the Reebok as a thank you.
We are looking at a fair way to allocate these tickets and one suggestion is a raffle with all proceeds going towards the Gill Pimblott charity that the club supports every year. If you have any other suggestions then please contact a committee member.
Haydock – If you are interested in going to the races on Fri 31st July then can you let Shaun know ASAP so that he can decide whether it is worth booking a coach or getting the bus (Alans suggestion) or going in cars. The first race is at 6.15
Halloween Party – This will take place on Sat 31st Oct, probably from 6 ‘til 9
Please contact Sharon for further details or if you have any suggestions.
5k Handicap race – It has been suggested that it would be good to stage a 5k handicap race again this year. This will involve all runners (if they want to take part) and prizes will be awarded to best performances.
Details to follow
A.O.B.
Bob announced that in just two and a half years the club membership has increased from 39 to 112 members.
If you do not receive Garry Baines emails, then make sure that you send him your email address so that he can add you to his mailing list garrybaines@aol.com
If you are entering races that are not on the club calendar and you want results putting on the blog then send details / race reports / links to results to terrygardiner123@yahoo.co.uk
FOUNDED 2001
Monday, 29 June 2009
Please help sponsor our bike riders
Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride - Sunday 12th July
As you are aware some of the runners (Bob, Terry H, John Lee, Mark Ruscoe, Lindsey Carter, Jayne Shea and Chris Corbett) are competing in the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride (60 miles).
All monies raised are going to Wigan and Leigh Hospice which is a fantastic cause.
We understand times are hard at the moment but we would appreciate whatever you have to offer.
You can sponsor us using the link below.
http://www.justgiving.com/astleyrunners/
As you are aware some of the runners (Bob, Terry H, John Lee, Mark Ruscoe, Lindsey Carter, Jayne Shea and Chris Corbett) are competing in the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride (60 miles).
All monies raised are going to Wigan and Leigh Hospice which is a fantastic cause.
We understand times are hard at the moment but we would appreciate whatever you have to offer.
You can sponsor us using the link below.
http://www.justgiving.com/astleyrunners/
Photo Competition - Guess who ?
Just for a laugh can anyone guess who is the mystery A&T runner ?
One guess each and if your lucky we may find a small prize for the lucky winner (socks or sunglasses).
If there is more than one correct answer i will draw to find the winner.
Answers to stevensgary@hotmail.com
This weeks Poll
Last week we asked how many club training sessions do you take part in ?
40% said 2, 28% 3, 11% 1, 8% 3 and 2% 5 with one (3%) die hard competing in all 6
2 claim they don't train with the club at all - answers on a postcard if you know who they are !
Please have a go at Peter Mulleady's poll question for this week.
40% said 2, 28% 3, 11% 1, 8% 3 and 2% 5 with one (3%) die hard competing in all 6
2 claim they don't train with the club at all - answers on a postcard if you know who they are !
Please have a go at Peter Mulleady's poll question for this week.
Message from Coach Moran
Shaun would like to pass on a big thank you to everybody that came to his 50th Birthday celebration at Gin Pit on Saturday night. It was a great night and thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Especially the dancing display by Arnold "Justin Timberlake" Melling.
Especially the dancing display by Arnold "Justin Timberlake" Melling.
Friday, 26 June 2009
Manchester 5k Sizzler
Three A&T runners took part in the Manchester 5k Sizzler in Wythenshaw Park last night (25th June)
Peter Chan finished in 10th place with an amazing run of 16.58
Michaela Shaw was 196th in 22.56
Julie Jenkins was 317th in 27.53
There were 411 finishers - well done to you all.
Peter Chan finished in 10th place with an amazing run of 16.58
Michaela Shaw was 196th in 22.56
Julie Jenkins was 317th in 27.53
There were 411 finishers - well done to you all.
Thursday, 25 June 2009
Funny Ironman Clip
Thinking of doing any ironman events in the future ?
Just watch this clip from 1997 featuring Sian Welch and Wendy Ingraham just 100 yards from the finish..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTn1v5TGK_w
Good luck to John Foulds who is competing in the Bolton Ironman on the 2nd August !!
2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride followed by running a marathon
Just watch this clip from 1997 featuring Sian Welch and Wendy Ingraham just 100 yards from the finish..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTn1v5TGK_w
Good luck to John Foulds who is competing in the Bolton Ironman on the 2nd August !!
2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride followed by running a marathon
Weekend Races
Good luck to Dave Pritchard who is taking part in the Moreton 10k on the Wirral on Sunday.
http://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/committee.asp?ClubCtteeID=6984&ClubID=1591
And also to the runners taking part in the Sotos 10k in Fleetwood.
http://www.ukresults.net/forms/090628sotos.pdf
Don't forget to send in your race reports so that they can be added to the blog.
http://www.rotary-ribi.org/clubs/committee.asp?ClubCtteeID=6984&ClubID=1591
And also to the runners taking part in the Sotos 10k in Fleetwood.
http://www.ukresults.net/forms/090628sotos.pdf
Don't forget to send in your race reports so that they can be added to the blog.
Wednesday, 24 June 2009
P.B. For Scott
Scott Christie recorded a personal best in the Lymm 5k on Saturday.
He finished in 46th place out of 268 with a time of 18.38
He finished in 46th place out of 268 with a time of 18.38
Three Peaks - By Peter Mulleady
On Saturday 7 A&T runners decided to go for a nice leisurely walking weekend that is the three peaks challenge. Climb the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales in under 24 hours. They were Ray, Alan Webb, Mark Ruscoe, Lyndsey, Jayne, Chris and myself. We were all comforted with Ray’s re-assuring words “ I couldn’t walk for a week after last time”. We were very close to not going at all as I’d left it late (not like me!) to book the vehicle and everywhere seemed to have run out of 7 seaters. Alan turned up trumps and managed to get us one at 5pm Friday night. We all met up at Gordons Ford in Bolton at 8.30 and we were off. Our Ford Galaxy had so many buttons it was hard to find what you needed. I bet it even had a button to tell jokes but then we had Alan for that. We soon had the Kinks playing on the CD player, would have been sooner but it took us ten minutes to find the on/off button. Then we were off on the 315 miles to Ft William. Me, Mark and Alan took it in turns to drive and we had one burger stop at a Wimpy in Scotland. Alan decided to show the locals how to drive properly by cutting in after overtaking half a mile of queing traffic, they just don’t drive properly up there. On the way we decided to have a bit of a sweepstake for the challenge. We came up with first to fall, first to dump, first to puke, first to blister, first bleeder, first to leave something behind and first Helvellyn effect (flashing in a public place). Our choices clearly show the caring attitude we have at A&T. Ray & Jayne seemed to be the bookies (Alan) favourites for most categories. Jayne had already made a bid for leaving something behind (her bag at Gordons) but the challenge only started at Ben Nevis. Unbeknown to us Ray had already started on his plan by drinking the water from the toilets at the services, more about that later. We arrived at Ft William and called in the Morrisons to fill up the car and ourselves. We met some other 3 peakers in the Petrol station, luckily Mark didn’t decide to sort them out when he thought they were trying to jump the que. We had lunch again! and stocked up on vital supplies, Snickers bars. Then at 5.12pm precisely we were on our way up Ben Nevis at 4,409 ft the highest peak in Scotland. It was a nice bright mild day and the views as we went up were superb. We also got our first sweepstake result as Lyndsey fell, nothing serious but both hands were down, and she was my pick for falling (I knew those bananas would come in useful). Not long after Jayne got her name on the scoreboard as the first to leave something behind. So an early lead for the Ladies. Further up it got misty and a lot colder and then we were traipsing through thick snow over a foot deep. Soon after that we were at the top and having our team photo. On the way down Mark decided to do his luge impression without the board and slid head first through the snow. We made good time down and after surviving a midges attack at the car we were ahead of schedule. We left Ft William before 10pm on our 262 mile drive to Scafell Pike the highest mountain in England at 3,209ft. Mark drove the last bit as the roads got narrower and narrower and then it was a case of dodging sheep. We knew we were then when we saw about 50 people carriers, minbuses and vans of other groups also doing the 3 peaks. There was a trail of lights going up and down the mountain. I thought great this should make navigation easy on what is the most likely of the peaks to get lost on. We started with head torches at 3.20am but within a few minutes we didn’t need them as it started to get light. It was soon hard work as we went up steeply and Ray decided to make his bid for the sweepstake crown with the first dump (that’s why he had that water). He was now if full swing and wasn’t holding back as he soon made it a hatrick (and put the men top of the sweep). About half way up there was a fork in the path with a left or right turning. This was one of the few occasions when there wasn’t anyone coming down so we went off the map and chose the shortest route to the right. A bit further up I could see dozens of people descending down the other path but only us and one other group on our path. Further up we had some hard scrambling up a gully between Scafell and Scafell Pike, that was why most went the other way but we are A&T! After that it was fairly straightforward to the top. We came down the other way which was longer but easier. We’d lost some time on Scafell and Ray has lost his Calvin Klein’s and head torch also but we were still just ahead of schedule. Ray was now really going for the sweep and took the Helvellyn effect points also with some impromptu changing behind the car. After some food we were on our way to Snowdon 220 miles away. Alan was having pleasant dreams, trouble was he was meant to be driving! We stopped off at services in North Wales for a coffee and to pick up some painkillers (best we could get was a flu remedy). As we got closer to Snowdon it started to rain and memories came back of our gallant failure last time due to the weather on Snowdon. Then the challenge was to get in the car park for our last peak, all 3,560 feet of Snowdon. We hung around the car park and luckily someone came out and we got in which saved me and Mark having to run an extra mile up the road which was the next parking place. It felt more like the middle of Piccadilly Circus than the bottom of a mountain as there were people everywhere. Snowdon is the busiest mountain in Britain and I think this weekend was also the most popular for the 3 peaks challenge. At least there was little chance of getting lost. The biggest problem was the queing up for some of the narrow difficult sections. We set off up the Pyg track.and made great progress up the path which is the best maintained of the peaks. We all made it in good time to the top and watched the train come in. It was tempting to stop at the café but we had our challenge to complete so we soon set off back. We went down by the Miners track which seemed a bit easier. Near the end Mark suggested we jog a bit and as we thought the car park was just around the corner and myself and Alan joined him. Another mile or so later and by now Mark was practically sprinting (3 peaks is obviously not enough for him) we eventually finished. We had all completed the 3 peaks well under the 24 hours. We called at a Hotel in Betws-y-Coed for our celebration Guinness. We then looked at the results of the sweepstake which Ray had won with ease and started to talk about what our next challenge would be. I think we finished with 3 peaks plus coast to coast and pennine way! Then it was off home for a nice bath (Ray had already booked his Radox bath) and a good nights sleep.
Tuesday, 23 June 2009
A&T Monthly Meeting - 28th June 2009
We will be having our monthly meeting at the Miners Welfare at Gin Pit on Sunday 28th June at 8pm (committee meeting at 7.30pm).
Please come along if you can - it is your chance to have a say in how the club is run and to put forward any ideas that you have. The meeting will last about an hour and then it is on to the main part of all A & T activities.........beer!
If you have any items that you want adding to the agenda the please email Terry G at terrygardiner123@yahoo.co.uk
So far the agenda items are:-
Childrens Xmas party - Brenda
Manchester to Blackpool bike ride - Bob
Please come along if you can - it is your chance to have a say in how the club is run and to put forward any ideas that you have. The meeting will last about an hour and then it is on to the main part of all A & T activities.........beer!
If you have any items that you want adding to the agenda the please email Terry G at terrygardiner123@yahoo.co.uk
So far the agenda items are:-
Childrens Xmas party - Brenda
Manchester to Blackpool bike ride - Bob
Monday, 22 June 2009
This weeks poll
Last week we asked your weekly mileage.
The top answer was 21-30 miles with 35% closely followed by 11-20 with 33%
16% said 31-40 with 9% over 40 miles.
4% said less than 10 !
The top answer was 21-30 miles with 35% closely followed by 11-20 with 33%
16% said 31-40 with 9% over 40 miles.
4% said less than 10 !
Sunday, 21 June 2009
Duathlon Training - Monday 29th June
Bob is arranging his next Duathlon session for Monday 29th June 6pm meeting at Leigh Sports Village.
The session is 5 laps of the track (easy), 12 miles bike ride (2 x Lowton loop) and finishing with 10 more laps of the track.
Everyone welcome !
The session is 5 laps of the track (easy), 12 miles bike ride (2 x Lowton loop) and finishing with 10 more laps of the track.
Everyone welcome !
Friday, 19 June 2009
Non Club Champ Races
If you are entering races that are not part of the A&T Club Champs, you can email me at terrygardiner123@yahoo.co.uk and I will put a mention on the blog. This may encourage more people to take part in extra races and also offer the opportunity for car sharing to the races.
Also, if you do enter a race, then why not write a short race report and share your experience with the club.
Last Weeks Results
There were some A&T runners in action in various races last week.
Morecambe 10k - 14th June
Scott Christie - 38.48 (23rd place out of 282 finishers)
Horwich Jubilee Series 5 mile - 17th June
Mark Lysycia - 33.36
Garry Baines - 35.36
Michaela Shaw - 38.50
Two Lads Fell Race - 18th June
Malcolm Collins - 39.42
Peter Mulleady - 40.32
Paul Jackson - 41.18
Morecambe 10k - 14th June
Scott Christie - 38.48 (23rd place out of 282 finishers)
Horwich Jubilee Series 5 mile - 17th June
Mark Lysycia - 33.36
Garry Baines - 35.36
Michaela Shaw - 38.50
Two Lads Fell Race - 18th June
Malcolm Collins - 39.42
Peter Mulleady - 40.32
Paul Jackson - 41.18
Thursday, 18 June 2009
Club Kit
We have ordered some summer training tops from Start Fitness mainly at the request of the Tuesday/Thursday group who have been asking Bob.We have ordered various sizes of blue 'more mile' for the lads and pink 'adidas' for the ladies and prices will be around £8-£10.00 depending on printing and carriage charges.
I will post a message on the blog when they have arrived.
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
Club Vests
Wearing club vests
At last week's Central lancs Grand Prix meeting it was stressed that it is the responsibility of all clubs, except in mitigating circumstances, to ensure that all competitors wear club vests during CLGP races. Could those of you who haven't been donning the Royal Blue colours, either dig out your old vests from the bottom of the draw, lose some weight if they don't fit or buy a new one for the next CLGP race at Horwich?
Thanks
Garry Baines
At last week's Central lancs Grand Prix meeting it was stressed that it is the responsibility of all clubs, except in mitigating circumstances, to ensure that all competitors wear club vests during CLGP races. Could those of you who haven't been donning the Royal Blue colours, either dig out your old vests from the bottom of the draw, lose some weight if they don't fit or buy a new one for the next CLGP race at Horwich?
Thanks
Garry Baines
Thirsty 3 - By Garry Baines
Some of you have been asking about pre-registering online for the Thirsty 3. I don't think you can. However I would suggest you pre-register by post due to the 200 limit on the race. Please click below for the Entry Form.
http://www.ukresults.net/forms/090705thirsty3.doc
Shaun mentioned that there are still plenty of places available for the coach. We booked the coach on the basis of the comments that were posted on the weekly poll, so all of you that said you were running and staying for a drink, get booking now. Shaun's number is 01942 791036.
http://www.ukresults.net/forms/090705thirsty3.doc
Shaun mentioned that there are still plenty of places available for the coach. We booked the coach on the basis of the comments that were posted on the weekly poll, so all of you that said you were running and staying for a drink, get booking now. Shaun's number is 01942 791036.
Monday, 15 June 2009
Knowl Hill Race Report - By John Foulds
Just three runners turned up for the 5th club fell race on a glorious sunny morning.
Unfortunately Mark Ruscoe had a calf injury from training the night before and was unable to run but still made it onto the photo.
Unfortunately Mark Ruscoe had a calf injury from training the night before and was unable to run but still made it onto the photo.
This was a 6 mile race with 1300 feet of ascent. Paul Jackson set off very quickly followed by Pete Mulleady and myself on tow.
The first one and a half miles was steady climbing then on top of the fells we had a couple of very tough scrambles, this is where Pete overtook Paul
I think also Petes previous nights curry and pints started to kick in. Once we had reached the trig point at the top of the hill it was more or less all down hill but still rough under foot and boggy in one or two places.
John Foulds
Results
1st overall Rick Graham Fell ponies 45.20
29th Pete Mulleady 57.28
32nd Paul Jackson 58.19
44th John Foulds 1.00.56
Standings to date
Pete Mulleady 96
John Foulds 70
Allan Webb 65
Paul Jackson 56
Steve White 38
Craig Bradbury 37
Terry Gardiner 31
Malcom Collins 20
Steve Foster 17
Paul Basnet 15
Brenda Wane 58
Mary Anne Tracey Aguera 40
Jayne Shea 20
Next Fell race Snowdon 18th July
Race Time Predictor
Please see on the right hand side the 'Race Time Predictor'
This is a very useful guide which is used by loads of runners to forecast predicted race times based on recent race times.
Simply tick the distance of your most recent race and the time achieved and it will predict your future race times as well as showing training guidelines.
I find it very accurate when at a similar fitness !
This is a very useful guide which is used by loads of runners to forecast predicted race times based on recent race times.
Simply tick the distance of your most recent race and the time achieved and it will predict your future race times as well as showing training guidelines.
I find it very accurate when at a similar fitness !
This weeks poll
Thank you to all 37 of you who voted on this weeks poll question asking if you ran on holiday.
As dedicated athletes it was no surprise to see 62% saying yes with 21% saying sometimes.
Please take a few seconds to have a go at this weeks question.
As dedicated athletes it was no surprise to see 62% saying yes with 21% saying sometimes.
Please take a few seconds to have a go at this weeks question.
Potters Arf Marathon - Written by Steve Coleman
Licking my wounds after last weekend and having had a few workouts that proved my knee could learn to behave. I wandered off to Stoke for a hill bound half marthon. The heat was an extra that made my day. I love running hills in the heat, not! However, they said all who did under 1H 30 got a gold medal, silver for under 1h 45 and bronze for under 2 hours. Gold would worth something I thought so off I went. Very little flat and the hill at 11 miles was a killer. Came in at 1h 28m 26s. 50th out of 1475. Officals were shouting I was going for gold, not true, it was not real gold and so I`m still poor.
Steve Coleman
Steve Coleman
Saturday, 13 June 2009
Mid-Week Race Results
Four A&T runners were involved in races this week:-
Paul Bohannon, Derek Coop and Paul Butler took part in the Haigh Hall 4 mile race on Wed 10th June.
Paul Bohannon had another excellent race finishing in 13th place overall with a time of 23.09
Derek Coop finished in 26.28 and Paul Butler knocked 12 seconds off last months time, coming in at 27.40
Scott Christey took part in the Dunham Massey Park 5k on Friday 12th June wearing number 666 !! and finished with "a devil" of a good time of 18.40
Well done to you all.
Paul Bohannon, Derek Coop and Paul Butler took part in the Haigh Hall 4 mile race on Wed 10th June.
Paul Bohannon had another excellent race finishing in 13th place overall with a time of 23.09
Derek Coop finished in 26.28 and Paul Butler knocked 12 seconds off last months time, coming in at 27.40
Scott Christey took part in the Dunham Massey Park 5k on Friday 12th June wearing number 666 !! and finished with "a devil" of a good time of 18.40
Well done to you all.
Friday, 12 June 2009
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Thursday, 11 June 2009
Fell Champs - Next Race
Hi All
Next fell championship race is Knowl Hill this Sunday 14/6. Registration at the Brown Cow, Norden, Rochdale OL12 7RB. The race starts at 11am and is 6 miles with 1300ft of climbing. Meeting at 9.45am at the train station for anyone who wants to give it a go. Great way to burn off some of the calories from the curry night!!
All the best
Pete
Next fell championship race is Knowl Hill this Sunday 14/6. Registration at the Brown Cow, Norden, Rochdale OL12 7RB. The race starts at 11am and is 6 miles with 1300ft of climbing. Meeting at 9.45am at the train station for anyone who wants to give it a go. Great way to burn off some of the calories from the curry night!!
All the best
Pete
Tuesday, 9 June 2009
Duathlon Training - Monday 15th June
Bob is organising another Duathlon training session next Monday starting at 6pm at Leigh Sports Village.
3 x 6 mile bike rides and 3 x 5 laps of track.
See Bob for more info.
3 x 6 mile bike rides and 3 x 5 laps of track.
See Bob for more info.
Latest Road Champs standings after Smithills Serpent
Latest Road Champs leagues kindly supplied by Garry Baines.
Next Race is "The Thirsty 3" on Sunday 5th July
Next Race is "The Thirsty 3" on Sunday 5th July
Premiership - Male
Simon Ford 169
Shaun Moran 169
Mark Riches 159
Steve Coleman 145
Craig Bradbury 133
Peter Chan 120
Peter Mulleady 108
Paul Mannion 84
Troy Topping 82
Paul Bohannon 79
Scott Christey 77
Kevin Wright 65
Gary Stevens 50
Arnold Melling 49
Malc Collins 22
John Lee 19
Simon Ford 169
Shaun Moran 169
Mark Riches 159
Steve Coleman 145
Craig Bradbury 133
Peter Chan 120
Peter Mulleady 108
Paul Mannion 84
Troy Topping 82
Paul Bohannon 79
Scott Christey 77
Kevin Wright 65
Gary Stevens 50
Arnold Melling 49
Malc Collins 22
John Lee 19
Championship - Male
Alan Webb 131
Paul Jackson 120
Mark Ruscoe 109
Terry Gardiner 97
Paul Butler 86
John Foulds 60
Steve Foster 56
Robert Stevens 51
Garry Baines 45
Derek Coop 39
Mark Lysycia 34
Rufus Bennett 34
Gary Atherton 31
Craig Little 27
Steve White 18
Steve Eldridge 17
Alan Hilton 16
Terry Hughes 10
Paul Jackson 120
Mark Ruscoe 109
Terry Gardiner 97
Paul Butler 86
John Foulds 60
Steve Foster 56
Robert Stevens 51
Garry Baines 45
Derek Coop 39
Mark Lysycia 34
Rufus Bennett 34
Gary Atherton 31
Craig Little 27
Steve White 18
Steve Eldridge 17
Alan Hilton 16
Terry Hughes 10
Division 1 - Male
Ian Hamilton 63
Dan Reason 59
Ray Taylor 56
Dave Pritchard 50
Paul Basnett 40
Mark Crowley 31
Mike Reason 26
Mike Newell 24
Matthew Crompton 7
Kisson Doctor 3
Dan Reason 59
Ray Taylor 56
Dave Pritchard 50
Paul Basnett 40
Mark Crowley 31
Mike Reason 26
Mike Newell 24
Matthew Crompton 7
Kisson Doctor 3
Premiership - Female
Mary Anne Tracey Aguera 180
Michaela Shaw 139
Brenda Wane 115
Joanne Iborra 60
Michaela Shaw 139
Brenda Wane 115
Joanne Iborra 60
Championship - Female
Michelle Fairclough 185
Carole Baines 156
Vanessa Thomson 119
Jodie Wagstaffe 112
Jayne Shea 54
Eva Tuer 24
Carole Baines 156
Vanessa Thomson 119
Jodie Wagstaffe 112
Jayne Shea 54
Eva Tuer 24
Division 1 - Female
Lyndsey Carter 51
Sonia Gadsby 49
Clare Unsworth 22
Anita Webb 22
Julie Jenkins 21
Sonia Gadsby 49
Clare Unsworth 22
Anita Webb 22
Julie Jenkins 21
Monday, 8 June 2009
Curry Night
Message from the organisers of the curry night.
Due to the large amount of people (55) coming to Saturday's curry night we would like you to refrain from ordering starters as it will delay the time of the main meals.
We hope you all understand.
Due to the large amount of people (55) coming to Saturday's curry night we would like you to refrain from ordering starters as it will delay the time of the main meals.
We hope you all understand.
Smithills Serpent Pics
Please see below link if you would like to view the pics from the Smithills Serpent.
Thank you for Andrew Coates of Swinton for the link.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/runinpics/sets/72157619302021799/
Thank you for Andrew Coates of Swinton for the link.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/runinpics/sets/72157619302021799/
Message from Coach Moran
The North of England 5km Championships will be held in Blackburn Town Centre on 12th July 2009 at 12 noon.
Many of the elite runners from the North of the country will compete in this event.
It would be good for the club if we could get enough of our experienced (and faster) runners to enter so that we can put a team together and see how far we have come as a club.
The link for entry, either online or postal, is below. Please make sure you tick the North of England box if you have an option.
http://www.ukforms.net/onlineforms/php/Applicant.php?EventID=259
Many of the elite runners from the North of the country will compete in this event.
It would be good for the club if we could get enough of our experienced (and faster) runners to enter so that we can put a team together and see how far we have come as a club.
The link for entry, either online or postal, is below. Please make sure you tick the North of England box if you have an option.
http://www.ukforms.net/onlineforms/php/Applicant.php?EventID=259
Last weeks poll
We asked 'what is your 2nd sport after running'?
35% of you said cycling, 25% swimming and 14% gym.
Please have a go at this weeks question.
35% of you said cycling, 25% swimming and 14% gym.
Please have a go at this weeks question.
A&T v. Swinton RC Challenge 8th July 2009 - By Garry Baines
Wednesday 8th July sees us to take on Swinton Running Club in the first of 2 challenge events arranged for this season. We will host this first event at Gin Pit - the run will start at 7p.m.
This is intended to be a light-hearted, fun challenge and is designed to involve runners of all abilities in the Club. Swinton are a similar club to us, who are attracting many members who are new to running and who have never entered races before.
The competition on this particular evening will be run under the following rules:-
1. Runners will be selected into teams of 3.
2. The A&T teams will be picked by the Swinton captain and likewise I will pick the Swinton teams. This way we have no way of knowing the strength of each team and it adds to the fun.
3. The first runner in each team will run the 2 mile loop around the trails at Gin Pit before handing over to the 2nd runner, who in turn will hand over to the 3rd runner on completion of the 2 miles.
4. The fastest runner in each team must go off last. This way there is no chance of the slower runners being left out on the course alone.
5. As each team finishes it will be allocated a race position number i.e. the team finishing first scores 1, the 2nd team scores 2 etc. The club with the lowest number of points wins the challenge.
6. If, for example, A&T enter 10 teams and Swinton enter 8 teams, only A&T’s best 8 scores will count.
7. Everyone is cordially invited to sample the hospitality of the Welfare Club in as big as dosages as they wish after the event.
I will need a few volunteers for the evening:
A bike man to lead the runners round the course.
Maybe a couple of marshals.
Two or three timekeepers and scorers.
Anyone interested let me know.
There is no pressure on anyone to produce spectacular times. It really is a social gathering interspersed with a bit of leisurely running.
If anyone needs more information, please e-mail me garrybaines@aol.com
This is intended to be a light-hearted, fun challenge and is designed to involve runners of all abilities in the Club. Swinton are a similar club to us, who are attracting many members who are new to running and who have never entered races before.
The competition on this particular evening will be run under the following rules:-
1. Runners will be selected into teams of 3.
2. The A&T teams will be picked by the Swinton captain and likewise I will pick the Swinton teams. This way we have no way of knowing the strength of each team and it adds to the fun.
3. The first runner in each team will run the 2 mile loop around the trails at Gin Pit before handing over to the 2nd runner, who in turn will hand over to the 3rd runner on completion of the 2 miles.
4. The fastest runner in each team must go off last. This way there is no chance of the slower runners being left out on the course alone.
5. As each team finishes it will be allocated a race position number i.e. the team finishing first scores 1, the 2nd team scores 2 etc. The club with the lowest number of points wins the challenge.
6. If, for example, A&T enter 10 teams and Swinton enter 8 teams, only A&T’s best 8 scores will count.
7. Everyone is cordially invited to sample the hospitality of the Welfare Club in as big as dosages as they wish after the event.
I will need a few volunteers for the evening:
A bike man to lead the runners round the course.
Maybe a couple of marshals.
Two or three timekeepers and scorers.
Anyone interested let me know.
There is no pressure on anyone to produce spectacular times. It really is a social gathering interspersed with a bit of leisurely running.
If anyone needs more information, please e-mail me garrybaines@aol.com
Smithills Serpent 5 Mile Trail Race - Written by Garry Baines
The Club made another mass exodus to Bolton yesterday to compete in the first running of the Smithills Serpent 5 miler.
Having navigated most of the uphill section of the old Burnden 10km course to get to the start, several members came up with odd facial expressions having surveyed the running surface for the first part of the course. As it turned out, the surface was firm enough under foot if a little draining on the old legs – my old legs to be precise. Weather conditions remained kind but a little windy on the main uphill section.
Pete Chan produced another cracking run to come in 7th overall and first for club. As on Wednesday Paul Bohannon followed him in 2nd place but this time Paul had already undertaken a 21mile warm-up on the bike!
The consistent crew, comprising Shaun, Mark Riches, Scott and Craig Brad all recorded similar performances as on Wednesday but were joined by Mark Ruscoe who upped the ante to finish in 34:22.
Steve Coleman suffered with a bad knee during the race which slowed him down.
It was good to see Alan Hilton back in action and he looked fresh, finishing in 36:22. According to the official results they were 2 Terry Gardiners – but we know “There’s only one Terry Gardiner” and he finished 3 seconds behind Alan.
The Edinburgh marathon lot of yours truly, Dan Reason and Dave Pritchard all had reasonable runs with Dave overtaking 3 runners in the last 20 metres.
It was good to see that John Lee sustained no adverse reaction to his knee on this testing course. John will be back among the points soon.
In the Ladies section, Mary Anne stormed home to take first overall in a time of 34:35. She’s virtually got the Ladies Premiership title sewn up after 7 races.
Brenda was disappointed to drop out through injury – she really must be injured.
In the Michaela/Jodie battle, Michaela brought home the bacon (Ian Hamilton was pretty close at hand) on this occasion with Jodie having only returned from holiday late the previous evening.
One of the best runs of the day came from Lyndsey Carter, who staved off the challenges of established runners like Carole Baines, Michelle Fairclough and Vanessa Thomson. Well done Lyndsey, there’s a trophy to be had for you by the end of the season on this performance.
Finally, our support of the CLGP races is really appreciated by the other member clubs and at the presentation for this race, Burnden Road Runners thanked us specifically (as did Chorley on Wednesday) and presented Shaun with a small gift in appreciation. Shaun was asked to open the envelope and produced 2 invitations to watch a Bolton Wanderers home of our choice next season.
The committee will decide how the tickets are to be distributed at the next meeting. As the only people who are bothered about BWFC in the club, I think me and Paul Bohannon should go!! (Don’t think I’ll get that one through)
Having navigated most of the uphill section of the old Burnden 10km course to get to the start, several members came up with odd facial expressions having surveyed the running surface for the first part of the course. As it turned out, the surface was firm enough under foot if a little draining on the old legs – my old legs to be precise. Weather conditions remained kind but a little windy on the main uphill section.
Pete Chan produced another cracking run to come in 7th overall and first for club. As on Wednesday Paul Bohannon followed him in 2nd place but this time Paul had already undertaken a 21mile warm-up on the bike!
The consistent crew, comprising Shaun, Mark Riches, Scott and Craig Brad all recorded similar performances as on Wednesday but were joined by Mark Ruscoe who upped the ante to finish in 34:22.
Steve Coleman suffered with a bad knee during the race which slowed him down.
It was good to see Alan Hilton back in action and he looked fresh, finishing in 36:22. According to the official results they were 2 Terry Gardiners – but we know “There’s only one Terry Gardiner” and he finished 3 seconds behind Alan.
The Edinburgh marathon lot of yours truly, Dan Reason and Dave Pritchard all had reasonable runs with Dave overtaking 3 runners in the last 20 metres.
It was good to see that John Lee sustained no adverse reaction to his knee on this testing course. John will be back among the points soon.
In the Ladies section, Mary Anne stormed home to take first overall in a time of 34:35. She’s virtually got the Ladies Premiership title sewn up after 7 races.
Brenda was disappointed to drop out through injury – she really must be injured.
In the Michaela/Jodie battle, Michaela brought home the bacon (Ian Hamilton was pretty close at hand) on this occasion with Jodie having only returned from holiday late the previous evening.
One of the best runs of the day came from Lyndsey Carter, who staved off the challenges of established runners like Carole Baines, Michelle Fairclough and Vanessa Thomson. Well done Lyndsey, there’s a trophy to be had for you by the end of the season on this performance.
Finally, our support of the CLGP races is really appreciated by the other member clubs and at the presentation for this race, Burnden Road Runners thanked us specifically (as did Chorley on Wednesday) and presented Shaun with a small gift in appreciation. Shaun was asked to open the envelope and produced 2 invitations to watch a Bolton Wanderers home of our choice next season.
The committee will decide how the tickets are to be distributed at the next meeting. As the only people who are bothered about BWFC in the club, I think me and Paul Bohannon should go!! (Don’t think I’ll get that one through)
Next club race - Thirsty 3
All
Our next club race is the Thirsty 3 at Heapey on 5th July and is an afternoon start.
This will be a 3 mile race.If, as new member you've been thinking about trying a race, this will be ideal because of the distance - it should be fun.I would suggest you get your entry form in a soon as possible. If anyone needs a link to this e-mail me at: garrybaines@aol.com
As the name of the race suggests there will be some opportunity for social activity after the race and Shaun Moran has booked a 35-seater coach for those of us who fancy partaking in this side of the event. The return price per person is £6.50 and reservations will be made on a strictly first come first serve basis. I can tell you that I've already reserved 3 places so make your mind up quickly. To make a reservation call Shaun on 01942 791036.
E-mail addresses
There are many new members whose e-mail addresses I don't have. I like to keep everyone informed of the status of our internal Road Race Leagues after each race.If you are not receiving my e-mails please forward your addresses to me as follows:-garrybaines@aol.com
Thanks
Friday, 5 June 2009
Report for Chorley Trail Race - By Garry Baines
Whilst I was still soaking my aching limbs in a hot bath on Wednesday evening, a third of the club were partaking in the latest CLGP race. Sorry I couldn't watch the race first hand but I’ve picked up the following observations from the results.
Peter Chan continues his march up the Premiership table with another 1st place position for A&T. However if Paul Bohannon can keep fit he’s got company. Paul ran his best race to date for the club and was second home in 26:30.
Consistent running followed from Shaun, Mark R, Simon (on his way back from injury), Scott and Craig Brad, who’s in great form at the moment.
Mary-Anne continues to improve with each race and the heavy training schedule she’s undertaken is now starting to pay off. She was first lady home for us and third overall in a time of 29:09
Derek Coop and Mark Lysycia completed their first CLGP races for the club and got round in very respectable times, adding to the strength in depth at the club.
Steve white and Joanne Iborra made rare outings with Joanne coming in as 2nd A&T lady.
I understand that Ray Taylor took a dive on the way round and was yellow-carded for simulation. Dave Pritchard some how got round 3 days after his marathon.
It’s great to see some of our newer runners taking part and I hope that Anita Webb and Julie Jenkins enjoyed the team spirit and support. I know from speaking to Anita on Monday that she really appreciates this.
It’s now onto the new Smithills Serpent race at Bolton on Sunday. It promises to be an interesting race with lots of humps and bumps.
It would be great to have a similar turnout to keep the pressure on our CLGP rivals.
SEE YOU ALL THERE!!
Peter Chan continues his march up the Premiership table with another 1st place position for A&T. However if Paul Bohannon can keep fit he’s got company. Paul ran his best race to date for the club and was second home in 26:30.
Consistent running followed from Shaun, Mark R, Simon (on his way back from injury), Scott and Craig Brad, who’s in great form at the moment.
Mary-Anne continues to improve with each race and the heavy training schedule she’s undertaken is now starting to pay off. She was first lady home for us and third overall in a time of 29:09
Derek Coop and Mark Lysycia completed their first CLGP races for the club and got round in very respectable times, adding to the strength in depth at the club.
Steve white and Joanne Iborra made rare outings with Joanne coming in as 2nd A&T lady.
I understand that Ray Taylor took a dive on the way round and was yellow-carded for simulation. Dave Pritchard some how got round 3 days after his marathon.
It’s great to see some of our newer runners taking part and I hope that Anita Webb and Julie Jenkins enjoyed the team spirit and support. I know from speaking to Anita on Monday that she really appreciates this.
It’s now onto the new Smithills Serpent race at Bolton on Sunday. It promises to be an interesting race with lots of humps and bumps.
It would be great to have a similar turnout to keep the pressure on our CLGP rivals.
SEE YOU ALL THERE!!
Boothstown Wobble
There is a nice easy 5.5k (3.4 miles) race taking place on 14th June - "The Boothstown Wobble"
A few members did it last year and enjoyed it.
There will also be a couple of members of the cast from Shameless there.
It will be a great way for any new members that haven't yet tried a race to get some experience and confidence and who knows - maybe enter a couple of club races?
If you pre-enter it is only £4.00 (£1.00 extra on the day)
There is a website with more details http://www.boothstownwobble.btik.com/p_Home.ikml
As Sonia pointed out - it will definitely be a bit of a wobble, as it is the day after the curry night, but it will be a good way to work off that vindaloo and beer!!
A few members did it last year and enjoyed it.
There will also be a couple of members of the cast from Shameless there.
It will be a great way for any new members that haven't yet tried a race to get some experience and confidence and who knows - maybe enter a couple of club races?
If you pre-enter it is only £4.00 (£1.00 extra on the day)
There is a website with more details http://www.boothstownwobble.btik.com/p_Home.ikml
As Sonia pointed out - it will definitely be a bit of a wobble, as it is the day after the curry night, but it will be a good way to work off that vindaloo and beer!!
Thursday, 4 June 2009
Message from the Ladies Captain
A huge thank you and well done to all the ladies that took part in last nights Chorley 4.4 trail race.
Well done also to Anita and Julie who both made their debuts for A&T
Well done also to Anita and Julie who both made their debuts for A&T
Hopefully we will have another great turn out on Sunday and give the men a run for their money!
Brenda
Latest Road Champs standings after Chorley 4.4
Latest Road Champs leagues kindly supplied by Garry Baines.
Next Race is "Smithills Serpent" on Sunday 7th June
PREMIERSHIP - Male
Simon Ford 142
Shaun Moran 141
Mark Riches 133
Steve Coleman 124
Craig Bradbury 109
Peter Chan 90
Peter Mulleady 86
Paul Mannion 84
Shaun Moran 141
Mark Riches 133
Steve Coleman 124
Craig Bradbury 109
Peter Chan 90
Peter Mulleady 86
Paul Mannion 84
Troy Topping 82
Kevin Wright 65
Scott Christey 52
Paul Bohannon 50
Gary Stevens 50
Arnold Melling 49
Malc Collins 22
John Lee 9
Kevin Wright 65
Scott Christey 52
Paul Bohannon 50
Gary Stevens 50
Arnold Melling 49
Malc Collins 22
John Lee 9
CHAMPIONSHIP - Male
Alan Webb 114
Paul Jackson 112
Mark Ruscoe 86
Terry Gardiner 82
Paul Butler 72
John Foulds 60
Steve Foster 56
Robert Stevens 51
Garry Baines 32
Gary Atherton 31
Craig Little 27
Steve Eldridge 17
Derek Coop 19
Steve White 18
Mark Lysycia 16
Rufus Bennett 15
Terry Hughes 10
Paul Jackson 112
Mark Ruscoe 86
Terry Gardiner 82
Paul Butler 72
John Foulds 60
Steve Foster 56
Robert Stevens 51
Garry Baines 32
Gary Atherton 31
Craig Little 27
Steve Eldridge 17
Derek Coop 19
Steve White 18
Mark Lysycia 16
Rufus Bennett 15
Terry Hughes 10
DIVISION 1 - Male
Ian Hamilton 51
Dan Reason 48
Ray Taylor 47
Dave Pritchard 43
Paul Basnett 34
Mark Crowley 31
Mike Reason 26
Mike Newell 24
Matthew Crompton 7
Kisson Doctor 3
Dan Reason 48
Ray Taylor 47
Dave Pritchard 43
Paul Basnett 34
Mark Crowley 31
Mike Reason 26
Mike Newell 24
Matthew Crompton 7
Kisson Doctor 3
PREMIERSHIP - Female
Mary Anne Tracey Aguera 150
Brenda Wane 115
Michaela Shaw 110
Joanne Iborra 60
Mary Anne Tracey Aguera 150
Brenda Wane 115
Michaela Shaw 110
Joanne Iborra 60
CHAMPIONSHIP - Female
Michelle Fairclough 160
Carole Baines 130
Vanessa Thomson 95
Jodie Wagstaffe 84
Jayne Shea 54
Eva Tuer 24
Carole Baines 130
Vanessa Thomson 95
Jodie Wagstaffe 84
Jayne Shea 54
Eva Tuer 24
DIVISION 1 -Female
Sonia Gadsby 49
Lyndsey Carter 24
Clare Unsworth 22
Anita Webb 22
Julie Jenkins 21
Lyndsey Carter 24
Clare Unsworth 22
Anita Webb 22
Julie Jenkins 21
Sundays Race - Smithills Serpent
We are meeting Sunday at the train station at 9am for the next Club and Grand Prix championship race, the Burnden 5 mile trail race aka the Smithills Serpent!
The race starts at 10.30 and registration is at Smithhills Sports Centre, Smithills Dean Road , Bolton BL1 6JS .
It is 10 mins walk from registration to the start. Coach Moran wants us to get there early so we can have a good warmup. I think we might need it!
Message from "Coach Moran"
Well done and a big thank you to all 35 runners who completed the Chorley 4.4. It was a fantastic turnout for a midweek race and it was really pleasing to hear all the thanks from the Chorley marshals and officials. There were loads of nice comments from other runners as well. The team spirit all day was brilliant and I really enjoyed our mass warmdown. You certainly couldn’t miss A&T!
Shaun
Tuesday, 2 June 2009
Dan's Marathon - Written by Dan Reason
My Marathon experience began early Sunday morning as I began to get ready for the big event; nerves were certainly taking a hold as I tucked into my Weetabix and Soreen breakfast, fortunately I was reminded of the real world when my nappy changing skills were required just prior to leaving the hotel, nothing like a smelly nappy to clear the airways.
I left the hotel with the full Reason clan en-route to the start in plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere and polish off yet another bottle of water, the temperature was already climbing and there wasn’t a cloud to be seen, which didn’t help the nerves. As the start time drew nearer I made my to the appropriate area where I spotted Garry waiting for the hooter. A few minutes of chatting and we were under way.
The start was initially a slow then brisk walk to the line where there was instantly enough room to get going proper. The first mile was interrupted by a very welcomed and massively appreciated encouraging shout from Paul Jackson and wife, a real lift early on.
My aim was to keep under 8 min mile pace for the duration which I was managing until mile 17, I was plodding along nicely when out of the blue a little twinge in the right calf was noticed. This soon developed in to full blown cramp leaving me stretching against a tree. Needless to say I was a little fed up. Even more so when the left calf decided to join in. by mile 18 I had developed a full limp which remained till for the remainder of the course. I enjoyed a couple of brief moments where the cramp subsided but it soon returned. to leave me limping and stretching periodically. The objective soon became to finish in one piece and try and enjoy the experience.
I arrived at the finish line in 3:52 and felt instantly disappointed, the disappointment soon reduced when I recalled all the runners I had witnessed passing out retiring and even fitting at the road side. Confirmation arrived later in the day that it was officially the hottest day of the year, believe me it felt it.
Looking back I am proud of the achievement and thoroughly enjoyed the immense support all the way around the course.Would I recommend the Edinburgh marathon, definitely, nice route, nice city and unbeatable support for almost the entire route.
If I had to summarise a marathon I would say prepare you for a steady, well paced 20 mile run with the most horrendous 10k imaginable thrown on top. The last 10k, in relation to difficulty supersedes anything I have experienced with my time at A&T, it really is torturous. Despite this I am looking forward to tackling the 26.2 again in the future.
A big thank you should also be passed on to anyone in the club who has offered advice, encouragement and company over the previous months, an additional thank you to all of you that contributed to my fundraising appeal. All of the above is yet further evidence that A &T is genuinely a fantastic club
Many, many thanks.
I left the hotel with the full Reason clan en-route to the start in plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere and polish off yet another bottle of water, the temperature was already climbing and there wasn’t a cloud to be seen, which didn’t help the nerves. As the start time drew nearer I made my to the appropriate area where I spotted Garry waiting for the hooter. A few minutes of chatting and we were under way.
The start was initially a slow then brisk walk to the line where there was instantly enough room to get going proper. The first mile was interrupted by a very welcomed and massively appreciated encouraging shout from Paul Jackson and wife, a real lift early on.
My aim was to keep under 8 min mile pace for the duration which I was managing until mile 17, I was plodding along nicely when out of the blue a little twinge in the right calf was noticed. This soon developed in to full blown cramp leaving me stretching against a tree. Needless to say I was a little fed up. Even more so when the left calf decided to join in. by mile 18 I had developed a full limp which remained till for the remainder of the course. I enjoyed a couple of brief moments where the cramp subsided but it soon returned. to leave me limping and stretching periodically. The objective soon became to finish in one piece and try and enjoy the experience.
I arrived at the finish line in 3:52 and felt instantly disappointed, the disappointment soon reduced when I recalled all the runners I had witnessed passing out retiring and even fitting at the road side. Confirmation arrived later in the day that it was officially the hottest day of the year, believe me it felt it.
Looking back I am proud of the achievement and thoroughly enjoyed the immense support all the way around the course.Would I recommend the Edinburgh marathon, definitely, nice route, nice city and unbeatable support for almost the entire route.
If I had to summarise a marathon I would say prepare you for a steady, well paced 20 mile run with the most horrendous 10k imaginable thrown on top. The last 10k, in relation to difficulty supersedes anything I have experienced with my time at A&T, it really is torturous. Despite this I am looking forward to tackling the 26.2 again in the future.
A big thank you should also be passed on to anyone in the club who has offered advice, encouragement and company over the previous months, an additional thank you to all of you that contributed to my fundraising appeal. All of the above is yet further evidence that A &T is genuinely a fantastic club
Many, many thanks.
Monday, 1 June 2009
2009 Liverpool Tunnel 10k
Three A&T runners ventured down the East Lancs to take part in the Liverpool Tunnel 10k.
Mark Lysycia - 41.39
Julie Jenkins - 59-42
Joanne Fairhurst - 70.17
Well done to all three of you.
Mark Lysycia - 41.39
Julie Jenkins - 59-42
Joanne Fairhurst - 70.17
Well done to all three of you.
My Marathon Experience - Written by Garry Baines
What a day to compete in your first marathon!
Normally if I open the curtains on a Sunday morning in summer and the sun is blazing down, my immediate thoughts turn to brushing down the barbecue, getting the beers in the fridge and letting the red wine breathe. Opening the curtains last Sunday was a jaw-dropping moment.
We’d met up with Dan Reason, Mike Newell, Dave Pritchard and families for the pre-race pasta meal in the centre of Edinburgh the night before and were reasonably encouraged that the temperature had dropped during the walk back to the hotel. But everything had changed again by the morning.
I took my place in the prescribed starting slot as late as possible and was going through my visualisation phase when I got a nudge from Dan Reason, who somehow managed to find me amongst the 12500 starters. We shared a bit of banter which calmed us both down and soon we were on our way, quickly passing Carole and Cerys who were watching a ¼ mile after the start line.
You have to say that the start to the Edinburgh marathon could not be kinder and the first 4 miles or so are “gimmes”, virtually all downhill. I quickly got into my stride and after a mile or so heard my name from someone in the crowd. It was Paul and Sarah Jackson who were up for the weekend.
Despite the warm conditions I felt comfortable and was running within myself and clocked 45 something for the first 10km. Carole and Cerys managed to make their way to the 9 mile marker before I got there and their shouts of encouragement spurred me on.
Soon it was time to start re-fuelling and I got down 2 half cereal bars after 11½ and 14½ miles, passing the half marathon marker in 1hr 39mins –bang on target.
The sun was now getting higher and warmer and with no shelter on the course it was vital to continue taking on a much fluid as possible. I contemplated taking on another half cereal bar but the old guts had started to twinge a bit so I resisted.
Made it to 20miles in 2hrs 33mins – still on target – and we were on our way back along the coast road when I saw Dave Pritchard on his way out and he gave me the thumbs up. Thought I’d better try the cereal bar now but just couldn’t get much down and ended spitting a lot of it out. By now the conditions had begun to take their toll and I was in unknown territory. My throat was getting drier and my sole thought was making it to the next water station at 22miles.The mental side of the race had now taken over for me and I was just trying to stay focussed on keeping some sort of constant pace going.
Runners around me were pulling up with exhaustion or cramp; bodies were now strewn at the side of the road, the odd guy on a stretcher.
At 23 miles I pulled out Steve Foster’s secret weapon – Kendal Mint Cake – and bit into one piece at the corner of my mouth. And that’s where most of it stayed – I just couldn’t get it down or spit it out.
Surely there must be another drinks station! Yes there it was, glimmering in the distance like a mirage.
Only 2 miles to go now and the locals, who provided fantastic support throughout apart from the odd pipe band and the sound of strangled cats, got behind all the runners and cheered them home.
The race finished in front of the grandstand at Musselburgh racecourse and still running along the road I spotted the 3 furlong marker – God how long is a furlong? I hope they’ve taken the fences down.
Into the racecourse itself and the end is in sight. The surface was terrible –they’d put down those boards they use for rock concerts at sports stadia and they kept moving. Tried to give myself one last gee-up and managed to produce a half-hearted gallop to the finish line.
There –made it! The Garmin showed 3hrs 26mins – I’d achieved what I set out to do and knew within myself that I’d given everything. Looking at the results afterwards, I finished 689th overall and 43rd for my age category from only 8254 finishers – that’s an awful lot of runners dropping out.
Spoke to Dan Reason later and he summed the race perfectly as “the longest warm-up to the toughest 10km you’ll ever do”.
I know Dan, Mike and Dave were all affected by the heat in some way or another – but I’ll leave them to tell their own stories.
Normally if I open the curtains on a Sunday morning in summer and the sun is blazing down, my immediate thoughts turn to brushing down the barbecue, getting the beers in the fridge and letting the red wine breathe. Opening the curtains last Sunday was a jaw-dropping moment.
We’d met up with Dan Reason, Mike Newell, Dave Pritchard and families for the pre-race pasta meal in the centre of Edinburgh the night before and were reasonably encouraged that the temperature had dropped during the walk back to the hotel. But everything had changed again by the morning.
I took my place in the prescribed starting slot as late as possible and was going through my visualisation phase when I got a nudge from Dan Reason, who somehow managed to find me amongst the 12500 starters. We shared a bit of banter which calmed us both down and soon we were on our way, quickly passing Carole and Cerys who were watching a ¼ mile after the start line.
You have to say that the start to the Edinburgh marathon could not be kinder and the first 4 miles or so are “gimmes”, virtually all downhill. I quickly got into my stride and after a mile or so heard my name from someone in the crowd. It was Paul and Sarah Jackson who were up for the weekend.
Despite the warm conditions I felt comfortable and was running within myself and clocked 45 something for the first 10km. Carole and Cerys managed to make their way to the 9 mile marker before I got there and their shouts of encouragement spurred me on.
Soon it was time to start re-fuelling and I got down 2 half cereal bars after 11½ and 14½ miles, passing the half marathon marker in 1hr 39mins –bang on target.
The sun was now getting higher and warmer and with no shelter on the course it was vital to continue taking on a much fluid as possible. I contemplated taking on another half cereal bar but the old guts had started to twinge a bit so I resisted.
Made it to 20miles in 2hrs 33mins – still on target – and we were on our way back along the coast road when I saw Dave Pritchard on his way out and he gave me the thumbs up. Thought I’d better try the cereal bar now but just couldn’t get much down and ended spitting a lot of it out. By now the conditions had begun to take their toll and I was in unknown territory. My throat was getting drier and my sole thought was making it to the next water station at 22miles.The mental side of the race had now taken over for me and I was just trying to stay focussed on keeping some sort of constant pace going.
Runners around me were pulling up with exhaustion or cramp; bodies were now strewn at the side of the road, the odd guy on a stretcher.
At 23 miles I pulled out Steve Foster’s secret weapon – Kendal Mint Cake – and bit into one piece at the corner of my mouth. And that’s where most of it stayed – I just couldn’t get it down or spit it out.
Surely there must be another drinks station! Yes there it was, glimmering in the distance like a mirage.
Only 2 miles to go now and the locals, who provided fantastic support throughout apart from the odd pipe band and the sound of strangled cats, got behind all the runners and cheered them home.
The race finished in front of the grandstand at Musselburgh racecourse and still running along the road I spotted the 3 furlong marker – God how long is a furlong? I hope they’ve taken the fences down.
Into the racecourse itself and the end is in sight. The surface was terrible –they’d put down those boards they use for rock concerts at sports stadia and they kept moving. Tried to give myself one last gee-up and managed to produce a half-hearted gallop to the finish line.
There –made it! The Garmin showed 3hrs 26mins – I’d achieved what I set out to do and knew within myself that I’d given everything. Looking at the results afterwards, I finished 689th overall and 43rd for my age category from only 8254 finishers – that’s an awful lot of runners dropping out.
Spoke to Dan Reason later and he summed the race perfectly as “the longest warm-up to the toughest 10km you’ll ever do”.
I know Dan, Mike and Dave were all affected by the heat in some way or another – but I’ll leave them to tell their own stories.
Chorley 4.4 Trail Race
The next club champs race is on Wednesday 3rd June.
It is the Chorley 4.4 Night Trail and the race is also part of the Central Lancs Grand Prix series.
We need as many runners out as possible so please do your best to attend. A good turn out by the ladies would be great.
Hopefully everybody will have been inspired to run after reading the recent brilliant race reports by Clare and Anita.
The convoy will be leaving Atherton train station car park at 6.15 (race starts at 7.30)
Monthly Club Meeting 31/05/2009 – Minutes by Terry Gardiner
Attendees – Mark Riches, Bob Stevens, Shaun Moran, Pete Mulleady, Terry Gardiner, John Lee, Steve Foster, Alan Webb, Malc Collins, Mark Ruscoe, Paul Mannion, Craig Bradbury, Jayne Shea, Chris, Michaela Shaw, Ray Taylor, Joanne Fairhurst, Mandy Baxendale.
Benidorm - Flying out on Sat 28th Nov and returning Tuesday 1st Dec. The half marathon is on Sun 29th Nov. If you are interested in going, then please let Pete Mulleady know ASAP so that he can start organising flights / accommodation etc. Pete is hoping to get the bookings done at the end of July - beginning of August.
Coaching Courses – The club are investing in its members by paying for six runners to do the Level 1 coaching certificate. This is a fantastic opportunity for the potential coaches and shows the club as being ambitious and motivated.
The members that will be doing the Level 1 course are:-
Peter Chan
Peter Mulleady
Dave Pritchard
Mike Newell
Michaela Shaw
Joanne Fairhurst
Curry Night – The next curry night will be on 13th June at the Far Pavilion in Atherton. Currently there are over 50 members going. If you haven’t yet booked your place and wish to do so, then contact Sharon Adair.
Thirsty 3 – The Thirsty 3 race takes place on sun 5th July at 3.15 pm
The club are hoping to make this a social event and have a drink or two after the race. Shaun is going to find out how much a coach will cost, so once we have a price we will need to get definite numbers of people that want to travel on the coach. It will probably be on a first come first served basis as it will be a 35 seater coach.
There are more details on an earlier blog entry.
Haydock / Chester races trip – Two possible dates are 8th August for Haydock or 22nd August for Chester. Shaun is looking in to prices and conflicts with any road races. More details to follow.
3 Peaks Challenge – Pete will be leading his merry troops up the three highest peaks in Britain – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon on 20th and 21st June. If you want to take part then please let Pete Mulleady know THIS WEEK as he needs to organise the transport.
Family Night – After the success of last years event it has been decided to do it again. This years “family night” will take place at the Miners Welfare at Gin Pit on 26th Sept. If you are interested in coming along or want more details then please speak to Bob.
CLGP – Thanks to all of the hard work that Garry Baines has put in, it looks as though the CLGP will carry on next year. So far, there are eight clubs interested in taking part and a meeting has been organised for 9th June where hopefully all the details will be worked out and we will have a clearer view of the future for the league.
New Running Tops – Short sleeve running tops printed with the club name will be ordered very soon. As soon as they become available an update will be posted on the blog.
Benidorm - Flying out on Sat 28th Nov and returning Tuesday 1st Dec. The half marathon is on Sun 29th Nov. If you are interested in going, then please let Pete Mulleady know ASAP so that he can start organising flights / accommodation etc. Pete is hoping to get the bookings done at the end of July - beginning of August.
Coaching Courses – The club are investing in its members by paying for six runners to do the Level 1 coaching certificate. This is a fantastic opportunity for the potential coaches and shows the club as being ambitious and motivated.
The members that will be doing the Level 1 course are:-
Peter Chan
Peter Mulleady
Dave Pritchard
Mike Newell
Michaela Shaw
Joanne Fairhurst
Curry Night – The next curry night will be on 13th June at the Far Pavilion in Atherton. Currently there are over 50 members going. If you haven’t yet booked your place and wish to do so, then contact Sharon Adair.
Thirsty 3 – The Thirsty 3 race takes place on sun 5th July at 3.15 pm
The club are hoping to make this a social event and have a drink or two after the race. Shaun is going to find out how much a coach will cost, so once we have a price we will need to get definite numbers of people that want to travel on the coach. It will probably be on a first come first served basis as it will be a 35 seater coach.
There are more details on an earlier blog entry.
Haydock / Chester races trip – Two possible dates are 8th August for Haydock or 22nd August for Chester. Shaun is looking in to prices and conflicts with any road races. More details to follow.
3 Peaks Challenge – Pete will be leading his merry troops up the three highest peaks in Britain – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon on 20th and 21st June. If you want to take part then please let Pete Mulleady know THIS WEEK as he needs to organise the transport.
Family Night – After the success of last years event it has been decided to do it again. This years “family night” will take place at the Miners Welfare at Gin Pit on 26th Sept. If you are interested in coming along or want more details then please speak to Bob.
CLGP – Thanks to all of the hard work that Garry Baines has put in, it looks as though the CLGP will carry on next year. So far, there are eight clubs interested in taking part and a meeting has been organised for 9th June where hopefully all the details will be worked out and we will have a clearer view of the future for the league.
New Running Tops – Short sleeve running tops printed with the club name will be ordered very soon. As soon as they become available an update will be posted on the blog.
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