Cross Country - Heaton Park 26/09/09 - By Mark Riches

Continuing the road running theme, A&T had another record turnout this time for a cross-country race, of 18 runners. Well done to everyone & let’s build on this for the rest of the season.
In addition we had the A&T supporters club including – injured lady’s captain Brenda Wane, Laura Riches, Caitlin Bradbury & road captain Garry Baines (saving himself for the Swinton Half the following day).
The ladies were first off with 2 laps of this deceptively hilly course. Although the mud was conspicuous by its absence, it was almost impossible to stay dry as there was the usual stream crossing. First home was Sue Hopkins who had an excellent run but paid for it afterwards. Lyndsey Carter (debut) had another good run & was next home followed by Abbie Eckersley & Carole Baines who had a great battle finishing just one second apart. Michelle Fairclough, Marjorie Leigh, Vanessa Thomson (debut) & Eva Tuer all ran well to complete the line-up.
Next it was the men’s turn; 3 laps this time. Simon Ford was first A&T man just outside the top 10 despite “having an easy one” due to racing Swinton Half the following day. Next it was yours truly (Mark Riches) despite going the wrong way on lap 3! Luckily a couple of Rochdale lads put me right. Peter Mulleady another who was intending to race Swinton was next followed by Derek Coop, who had a great run. Terry Gardiner continued his rich vain of form followed just over 1 minute later by Terry Hughes, who suffered in the heat. Craig Bradbury, Steve Foster & Mark Lysycia had a great battle & finished within 3 seconds of each other; Ian Hamilton & Paul Basnett (debut) both ran well to complete the line-up.
Next race is at Witton Park Blackburn Saturday 3rd October

Night out reminder

All,

Just a reminder that we are meeting in the Waterside at 7.30pm Saturday for a night out around Leigh for a bit of a change in scenery.

Don't forget your passports !!!

Road Rankings

Terry G will be updating the Road Rankings.

Our Road Captain Garry Baines will be overseeing the up-dates from now on. Garry will pick up results from all Club and CLGP races but could the members e-mail Garry with their times from other races they take part in. It's particularly important as these can define the make-up of the leagues for the Club Championship in the following season.

e-mail address is garrybaines@aol.com

Bolton Tickets

Hi All

I’m now selling raffle tickets for 2 home tickets for any Bolton Wanderers match this season (Given to us by Burnden Road Runners). Tickets are £1 each and all money raised will be added to the Gill Pimblott race money and given to charity. If you want any let me know when you see me.

All the best

Pete

Junior Session - Sat 3rd October

Hi All

Junior session on again this Saturday 3/10. 9.30 start.

Cheers

Pete

2009 Club Rankings

Male

5K
Paul Mannion 15.59 Sale 06/08/2009
Peter Chan 16.55 Blackburn 12/07/2009
Simon Ford 17.18 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Paul Bohannon 17.29 Sale 23/07/2009
Shaun Moran 17.58 Blackburn 12/07/2009
Mark Riches 18.28 Blackpool 16/07/2009 track
Troy Topping 18.33 Blackburn 12/07/2009
Scott Christey 18.38 Lymm 20/06/2009
Arnold Melling 18.40 Littleborough 25/03/2009
Peter Mulleady 18.58 Sale 23/07/2009
Rufus Bennett 19.00 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Alan Hilton 19.46 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Steve Foster 20.07 Sale 23/07/2009
Mark Lysycia 20.33 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
John Lee 20.39 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Garry Baines 21.24 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
David Crowe 22.08 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Ray Taylor 23.03 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Cliff Stanley 25.42 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009

10K
Paul Mannion 34.06 Trafford 13/09/2009
Peter Chan 35.06 Rufford 06/09/2009
Simon Ford 35.24 Natterjack 18/10/2009
Shaun Moran 36.06 Salford 10/04/2009
Scott Christey 37.27 Natterjack 18/10/2009
Mark Riches 37.49 Rufford 06/09/2009
Steve Coleman 38.01 Salford 10/04/2009
Alan Steeple 38.08 Birchwood 23/08/2009
Craig Bradbury 38.29 Salford 10/04/2009
Paul Jackson 38.48 Salford 10/04/2009
Peter Mulleady 38:48 Ribble Valley 27/12/2009
Rufus Bennett 38.59 Rufford 06/09/2009
Mark Ruscoe 39.02 Rufford 06/09/2009
Troy Topping 39.03 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Arnold Melling 39.05 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Malc Collins 39.12 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Gary Atherton 39.38 Rufford 06/09/2009
Derek Coop 40.20 Gt Langdale 12/12/2009
Kevin Wright 40.21 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Mark Lysycia 41:05 Gt Langdale 12/12/2009
Alan Hilton 41.22 Rufford 06/09/2009
Terry Gardiner 41.24 Rufford 06/09/2009
Alan Webb 41.53 Garstang 11/01/2009
Steve Foster 42.08 Salford 19/04/2009
Garry Baines 42.10 Rufford 06/09/2009
Gary Stevens 42.50 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Paul Butler 43.01 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Dan Reason 43.14 Salford 10/04/2009
Terry Hughes 43.31 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Bob Stevens 43.39 Salford 10/04/2009
Mike Reason 44.39 Salford 10/04/2009
Ian Hamilton 45.16 Birchwood 23/08/2009
Paul Mason 45.18 Birchwood 23/08/2009
Wayne Babynec 46.23 Rufford 06/09/2009
Marcus Taylor 46.59 Rufford 06/09/2009
Mark Crowley 47.51 Rufford 06/09/2009
Ray Taylor 48.15 Rufford 06/09/2009
Steve Foster 48.18 Rufford 06/09/2009
Dave Pritchard 50.53 Rufford 06/09/2009
Leonard Unsworth 51.21 Natterjack 18/10/2009

5 miles
Paul Mannion 27.21 Green Drive 18/10/2009
Peter Chan 28.37 Horwich 15/07/2009
Shaun Moran 28.47 Sale 5 28/12/2008
Simon Ford 28.58 GP5 11/10/2009
Scott Christey 30.38 Horwich 15/07/2009
Rufus Bennett 30.24 GP5 11/10/2009
Mark Riches 30.39 GP5 11/10/2009
Arnold Melling 30.45 GP5 05/04/2009
Troy Topping 30.50 Horwich 15/07/2009
Gary Atherton 31.31 GP5 11/10/2009
Mark Ruscoe 31.38 Horwich 15/07/2009
Steve Coleman 31.40 GP5 11/10/2009
Malc Collins 31.43 GP5 11/10/2009
Paul Bohannon 32.21 Smithills 07/06/2009
Peter Mulleady 32.54 Horwich 15/07/2009
Derek Coop 33.08 GP5 11/10/2009
Alan Hilton 33.37 GP5 11/10/2009
Steve Foster 33.41 GP5 11/10/2009
Mark Lysycia 33.49 Horwich 20/05/2009
Terry Gardiner 34.02 Horwich 15/07/2009
Paul Jackson 34.16 GP5 11/10/2009
Paul Butler 34.17 Horwich 15/07/2009
Alan Webb 34.23 Horwich 15/07/2009
Garry Baines 34.36 Leigh 20/09/2009
Dan Reason 35.01 Horwich 15/07/2009
Marcus Taylor 35.10 GP5 11/10/2009
John Lee 35.51 Horwich 15/07/2009
Ian Hamilton 35.59 Green Drive 18/10/2009
Wayne Babynec 36.22 Green Drive 18/10/2009
Tony Quinn 36.47 GP5 11/10/2009
Dave Crowe 37.12 GP5 11/10/2009
Ray Taylor 38.20 Horwich 15/07/2009
Mike Newell 38.25 Horwich 15/07/2009
Mark Crowley 39.05 GP5 11/10/2009
Paul Basnett 41.29 GP5 05/04/2009
Paul Lees 43.27 GP5 05/04/2009
Dave Pritchard 43.44 Smithills 07/06/2009

Half marathon
Simon Ford 1.16.30 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Peter Chan 1.19.52 Swinton 27/09/2009
Steve Coleman 1.23.31 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Alan Steeple 1.23.44 Swinton 27/09/2009
Mark Riches 1.24.32 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Shaun Moran 1.25.11 Keswick 03/05/2009
Mark Ruscoe 1.25.57 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Craig Little 1.26.15 Wrexham 15/02/2009
Malc Collins 1.26.42 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Paul Mannion 1.28.21 Swinton 27/09/2009
Rufus Bennett 1.29.05 Swinton 27/09/2009
Alan Hilton 1.29.23 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Steve Foster 1.32.03 Wilmslow 29/03/2009
Derek Coop 1.32.38 Palma 18/10/2009
Paul Jackson 1.33.15 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Garry Baines 1.33.35 Swinton 27/09/2009
Gary Atherton 1.34.01 Blackpool 05/04/2009
Steve Eldridge 1.34.03 Blackpool 22/02/2009
Terry Gardiner 1.34.39 Swinton 27/09/2009
Mark Lysycia 1.36.22 Palma 18/10/2009
John Fouldes 1.37.02 Leek 30/08/2009
Terry Hughes 1.37.22 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Peter Mulleady 1.37.48 Benidorm 29/11/2009
Mark Fairhurst 1.38.24 Swinton 27/09/2009
Dan Reason 1.38.25 Fleetwood 13/09/2009
Alan Webb 1.39.26 Blackpool 05/04/2009
Mike Newell 1.42.05 Blackpool 22/02/2009
Ian Hamilton 1.42.09 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Craig Bradbury 1.49.51 Swinton 27/09/2009
Ray Taylor 1.50.59 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Dave Pritchard 1.51.39 Blackpool 22/02/2009
Steve Loughlin 1.52.16 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Mark Crowley 1.52.45 Swinton 27/09/2009
Matt Crompton 1.53.50 Blackpool 05/04/2009
Paul Basnett 2.04.00 Benidorm 29/11/2009
Andy Waterworth 2.09.34 Warrington 04/10/2009
Mark Beale 2.15.12 Warrington 04/10/2009
Marathon
Peter Chan 2.46.49 London 26/04/2009
Steve Coleman 2.57.53 Blackpool 05/04/2009
Alan Steeple 3.09.16 Fleetwood 13/09/2009
Paul Jackson 3.19.02 London 26/04/2009
Malc Collins 3.26.15 Angelsey 20/09/2009
Garry Baines 3.26.55 Edinburgh 31/05/2009
Craig Little 3.27.42 London 26/04/2009
Dan Reason 3.52.17 Edinburgh 31/05/2009
Mike Newell 4.26.33 Edinburgh 31/05/2009
Dave Pritchard 4.26.38 Edinburgh 31/05/2009



Female
5K
Josey Maley 21.48 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Michaela Shaw 22.48 Sale 23/07/2009
Suzanne Gregory 24.20 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Gemma Sofield 26.23 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Elaine Hodson 26.46 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Marjorie Leigh 27.02 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Laura Babynec 27.50 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Julie Jenkins 27.53 Manchester 25/06/2009
Michelle Fuller 27.57 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Fiona Saunders 28.03 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Denise Babynec 28.34 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Sonia Gadsby 28.52 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Lorraine Broadhurst 30.49 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Lynda Cheetham 31.15 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Sharon Adair 32.09 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Kelly Drysdale 32.10 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Lynne Carter 35.32 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Debbie Laverick 38.20 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009
Andrea Goodwin 38.20 Gill Pimblott 15/11/2009

10K
Mary-Anne T-Aguera 40.23 Accrington 25/10/2009
Brenda Wane 44.11 Salford 10/04/2009
Michaela Shaw 45.56 Rufford 06/09/2009
Jodie Wagstaff 48.15 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Carole Baines 48.41 Chernobyl 25/01/2009
Lindsey Carter 49.48 Rufford 06/09/2009
Michelle Fairclough 51.08 Rufford 06/09/2009
Mandy Baxendale 52.05 Birchwood 23/08/2009
Jayne Shea 53.16 Chernobyl 25/01/2009
Vanessa Thomson 54.32 Radcliffe 19/04/2009
Julie Jenkins 57.45 Natterjack 18/10/2009
Bev Lee 58.00 Manchester 18/05/2009
Elaine Mycock 58.00 Manchester 18/05/2009
Helen Minshall 58.00 Natterjack 18/10/2009
Denise Babynec 58.54 Rufford 06/09/2009
Fiona Saunders 1.00.01 Manchester 18/05/2009
Joanne Fairhurst 1.04.30 Berlin 11/10/2009
Sharon Adair 1.05.41 Manchester 18/05/2009
Jenny Taylor 1.06.17 Rufford 06/09/2009

5 miles
Mary-Anne T-Arguera 31.54 Horwich 15/07/2009
Joanne Ibhora 33.25 Horwich 15/07/2009
Brenda Wane 37.20 Horwich 15/07/2009
Michaela Shaw 37.52 Horwich 15/07/2009
Jodie Wagstaff 38.46 Horwich 15/07/2009
Michelle Fairclough 40.30 GP5 11/10/2009
Carole Baines 41.17 Leigh 20/09/2009
Sarah Jackson 41.57 GP5 05/04/2009
Lyndsey Carter 42.44 GP5 05/04/2009
Leanne Grainger 43.26 GP5 05/04/2009
Laura Babynec 44.37 Green Drive 18/10/2009
Marjorie Leigh 44.51 Green Drive 18/10/2009
Vanessa Thomson 45.36 Horwich 15/07/2009
Julie Jenkins 46.29 Horwich 15/07/2009
Sonia Gadsby 47.06 GP5 11/10/2009
Helen Minshall 48.12 GP5 11/10/2009
Clare Unsworth 50.30 GP5 05/04/2009
Jill McDermott 52.27 GP5 05/04/2009
Jenny Parkinson 53.10 GP5 05/04/2009

Half marathon
Mary-Anne T-Aguera 1.28.12 Swinton 27/09/2009
Joanne Iborra 1.31.20 Wrexham 15/02/2009
Brenda Wane 1.40.05 Keswick 03/05/2009
Carole Baines 1.48.41 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Michaela Shaw 1.49.04 Keswick 03/05/2009
Michelle Fairclough 1.55.17 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Jayne Shea 2.03.13 Blackpool 22/02/2009
Vanessa Thomson 2.03.37 Swinton 27/09/2009
Sarah Sadler 2.10.55 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Julie Jenkins 2.12.24 Lancaster 08/11/2009
Liz Ellicott 2.21.57 Lancaster 08/11/2009

Marathon
Joanne Iborra 3.20.32 London 26/04/2009
Michaela Shaw 3.47.39 Fleetwood 13/09/2009

Gin Pit 5

All,

As you know it is the Gin Pit 5 on Sunday 11th October.

At the moment entries are lower than normal and we are hoping that club members who are not marshalling will enter to boost numbers. Although the race is quite tasty at the front there are various amounts of abilities and no one will be made to feel out of place and remember you have the 'Worlds best and most supportive' marshalls to cheer you around the course.

This race is very important to the clubs finances and pays for many of the things people take for granted and without this race we would have no option but to increase subs.

If you know family or friends who would enter please spread the word, remember we have a 2 mile fun run for those who cannot manage the full 5.

We have various prizes on offer and each finisher will get either a medal or sports bottle for their efforts.

The 5 miler starts at 11am and the 2 mile fun run at 10.30am

You can download the form here http://www.ukresults.net/09oct.html#ginpit

Blog Update

Hello remember me ?

I am back in working order (for now) so will be sticking more articles on the blog.

I'm still no nearer running and have no idea when 'if ever' i will ever get back into competitive racing but am very happy to assist Terry Gardiner with the IT side for now.

Best regards, Gary

Baines gains 1st V50 prize at Leigh !

A&T Road Captain Garry Baines scooped his 1st competitive V50 prize at the Leigh Harriers 5 Mile Trail Race in very warm conditions.

Garry received a voucher for £25.00 and was 'over the moon' with his win.

To make it a double for the Baines family wife Carole walked away with the V45 prize after being promoted and also won a voucher.

See link for full results http://www.ukresults.net/2009/flash5.html

Brinscall Triathlon

On a very busy weekend for A&T Bob Stevens was the sole representative competing in the Sunday afternoon Brinscall Triathlon.

This popular sprint tri which is ideal for newcomers due to there being rest periods between each discipline attracted 72 entries.

Bob continued his fine form by winning his 3rd age category prize in a row and finish a very impressive 13th overall.

He was cheered on by Michelle Fairclough after her Swinton run who said Bob made it look like "a walk in the park"

http://www.ukresults.net/2009/brintri.html

Half Marathons - By Steve Coleman

Last weekend two A & T runners ( Myself and John Foulds ) did Garstang half marathon, a undulating course which got harder as it went on. I was reduced to walking on the last two hills. At least no sting in the tail and a good last mile. I came in 28th at 1H 30M 48S and John at 1h 38m 31s.

This weekend I did Dumfries half marathon, another undulating but interesting course.
Piped to the start line by police on bikes as well as kilted bagpiper players, must be a Scottish thing. Great weather conditions allowed me to improve from last years 1h 32m 58s to a faster 1H 27M 59S.

Steve

A&T cross-country 03/10/09

All
As previously mentioned there has been a change of venue for the 1st Red Rose fixture .

It is now at Witton Park, Blackburn (postcode BB2 2TP) - updated fixture list is on the X Country link on the right hand side of the blog.
Ladies race starts at 1.35 pm & men's race starts at 2.15 pm
For those of you wanting to travel in convoy please be at Atherton train station for 12:00 noon.
I will collect & hand-out the numbers on the day (different number to last week as this is a different league)

Mark Riches

Race Report – Swinton Half Marathon - By Garry Baines

What a day for Mary-Anne as she won the Ladies Section of the undulating Swinton Half Marathon on Sunday. Having recovered from recent injury, Sunday’s race saw a rapid return to form for a delighted Mary-Anne as she crossed the line in 1hr 28:12.
Two other ladies A&T ladies, Michelle Fairclough and Vanessa Thomson completed the race.

In the Men’s Section we had 14 entrants, some of whom were carrying injuries.
The best performance came from Peter Chan who finished 2nd in the V45 category in a time of 1hr 19:52. Simon Ford kept the pressure on him with a time of 1hr 21:13 and Salford-based Alan Steeple was the third A&T finisher in 1hr 23:44.
It would appear that Paul Mannion kept Mary-Anne company for much of the time as he went for a jog round the course in 1:28:21.
Malc Collins and Rufus Bennett renewed their tussle from the Rufford 10km with Malc just getting the nod on this occasion by 3 seconds in 1hr: 29:02.
Alan Hilton got a rollicking from his Captain for taking an unscheduled pee-break at 11miles. Al lost some momentum and despite trying to catch up again eventually finished 9 seconds behind the said Captain, who was extremely pleased with his PB of 1:33:35. At long last the Captain also managed to finish in front of Terry Gardiner who also took away a PB in 1:34:39. It must be said that Terry had given his all (encouraged from the sidelines by the same Captain) in Saturday’s Cross Country Race.
It was good to see Craig Little and Steve Eldridge back in competition although lack of fitness probably took its toll on both of them.
Mark Fairhurst made his half marathon debut and turned in a solid performance to record 1:38:24.
Pete Mulleady, another Cross Country runner from Saturday, struggled with injury.
Mark Crowley got more mileage and more long-distance experience under his belt in preparation for his 2010 marathon.
But the story of the day belongs to Craig Bradbury. We know that Craig has been also struggling with fitness recently. However after 10miles or so he got a touch of the stomach cramps and, bent over, continued walking only to wrap himself around a lamp-post, sustaining cuts to his eye and face. With blood streaming he managed to find assistance from the local Constabulary and eventually made it back to the finish where the St.John’s Ambulance Brigade got to work on him – that made their day but perhaps not Craig’s!

To end on a positive note, the overall result enabled the men to capture first spot in the Central Lancs Grand Prix with one race to go. Your club needs you at Gin Pit!!

Cross Country - By Ladies Captain Brenda Wane

Well done to Sue, Lyndsey, Abbie, Carole, Michelle, Margorie, Vannessa and Eva who ran the cross country today.
You have made me pround to see you all putting your heart and soul in those hills and down bits.
I know myself its not easy, thanks for doing your best, well done ladies

Brenda .

Blackpool Bike Ride - Letter from Wigan & Leigh Hospice

Click on image to see large version

A&T cross-country 26/09/09

All
It’s that time of the year again!
The first race in the A&T cross-country champs is this Saturday at Heaton Park
Ladies race starts at 2.00 pm & men’s race starts at 2.30 pm
For those of you wanting to travel in convoy please be at Gin Pit for 12:30 pm
I will collect & hand-out the numbers on the day

Cheers
Mark Riches

Message from A&T Chairman - Peter Mulleady

On behalf of the Committee I would just like to say a massive thank you to Shaun for everything he has done for the club.

In the running community Shaun Moran is A&T. Everyone knows Shaun and Shaun knows everyone.

While I was giving out drinks at Fleetwood marathon on Sunday in my A&T top the organiser was reminiscing about the cross country races where Shaun used to follow him round and then beat him at the end.

They all remeber Shaun not just because he was a superb runner (been there, done it and got the times to prove it) but especially because he gets on so well with everybody. No airs and graces just good humour and sound advice.

We have all benefited hugely from that, understand and respect his decision and wish him all the very best in the future.

Cheers

Pete

Message from Shaun Moran

As from today i have decided to resign as Club Coach and from my committee position.

You may be aware i was a founder member of A&T along with Mark and Joanne Riches back in 2000. Since then i took the mantle of 'Club Coach' and with the help of the other committee members i have seen the club grow to what is it today, this has given me a great sense a pride over these years.

However i have recently turned 50 and feel it is now the time to have some 'me' time to spend more time with the family and do other things. Due to recent injuries i decided to join the DW gym just to tick over and enjoyed it that much i have just extended for another 6 months, I have been put through my paces by John 'Captain Mainwaring' Lee which is something i am really enjoying.

This decision is not an easy one and one that i have been thinking about for quite some time.

Winning the Central Lancs Grand Prix was a fantastic achievement and one which fills me with a great deal of pride.

I would like to say 'Thank you' to Bob for all his work over the years to build up the Tuesday/Thursday group and thank the committee for their support over the years.

Once i recover from injury i will of course continue to train with the club and wear the A&T vest in races.

I'd just like to finish off by saying a BIG THANK YOU to all the 'troops' who have turned out to training sessions under my guidance and raced to put A&T the envy of other clubs.

You all deserve a 'Shaun Moran' round of applause.

Night Out

We are having a night out in Leigh on Saturday 3rd Oct.

Meeting at the Waterside at 7.30 - Everybody welcome.

Training

Don't forget - Tuesday and Thursday's sessions are both being held at the Miners Welfare at Gin Pit this week.

My First Open Water Triathlon At Lake Bala - Brenda Wane

Well it must be serious when I turn down a Saturday nite out to go and swim in a freezing cold lake at Bala.
Well Terry Hughes, kindly picked me up at 5am in the morning, off we go to Bala only us up and car booters ha ha. Didnt take as we thought, only us there and marshalls, better being early than late .
Terry said lets have a look at the transition point for the bikes, Terry counted over 800 spaces for bikes, what a lot. Looking around I said to Terry where is the lake, he said its there where, you could not see it for the mist. I thought at that point it wouldn't go ahead, wishful thinking , now it was time to get my numbers and goody bag. Really nice towel and lots of goodies not bad.

Time was getting near Terry said lets go and rack your bike. By then my belly started to wobble cause I knew no turning back. My start time was 9.40 in the lake. It was put back till 10 because of mist on the lake. Anyway 10 o'clock came we were all in the lake freezing cold waiting to start, I have never done this before, but it was that cold, I had to .....to keep me warm. Hooter went we were off arms legs everywhere, I got hit a couple of times, goggles knocked off but that didn't put me off, I just kept swimming, thinking about the transition point and the bike ride. Before i knew it I heard Terry shouting "come on" and taking pictures. Running to find my bike they all look alike. Wetsuit off, helmet on, shoes on, bike off rack and off I go 24 mile bike ride on closed roads. It was undulating, and very scenic, I was enjoying the ride until we turned round and then the wind was in my face, I put my head down and got on with it, thinking it's hard and then I thought about Michaela, Pete and Steve doing the marathon. Before I knew, I could see the lake, knowing I was nearly home, well my bike rack ha ha had a quick bite of my banana and a drink, helmet off and away I go on my run, still hearing Terry shouting "come on Brenda.you are neally there" quick smile and off I go my legs were like blinking lead, they would not work, for a least 2 miles, got to about 4 miles I was getting tired I wanted to stop and walk, but I thought yet again about those marathon runners and kept on going . You could hear loads of people cheering I knew not long now running my little legs off I finally crossed the mat and saying yes - my first open water tri . I would like to say a BIG THANKS to Terry also recommend it and yes I will do all again next year.
Swim 32mins bike 1hour 15 mins run 51mins

Brenda . .

Fleetwood Marathon Report - By Pete Mulleady

It was a nice early start for me, 5.45am, on Sunday as I got up for the Fleetwood Marathon. Usual pre race breakfast of porridge with loads of other random bits thrown in, Ginger, Raisins, Coconut, Banana, Nuts. Gordon Ramsay, no contest. Bit last minute, for a change, and off to pick up Alan Steeple in Salford. I didn’t actually know where Alan lived but luckily I had an address and Satnav. Then it was off to Fleetwood. The Satnav was getting a bit upset with me as I promptly headed off towards Yorkshire down the M62 (I missed the M61 turn) but we were soon back on the right track and despite the minor detour we still managed to take 15 mins off the satnav journey time to Fleetwood. At 8.30 we met up with our fellow Marathon runners Michaela & Steve Coleman. Dan was also there just deciding whether to run the half or full marathon. 13.1 miles or 26.2 in sweltering heat? What would Dan , typical hard as nails A&T stalwart, never say die attitude, choose? What do you think!
26.2 miles is along way to go and every bit of weight makes a difference so we headed off to get our weight down at the local amenities. While we were there we discussed our race tactics and picked up some tips from a Guy who has the UK record for the number of Marathons, 700 and something! Then it was off to the start and after the usual A&T handshakes and “have a good one” we were off at 9am.

It was a glorious sunny day, not really what you want for a Marathon, so you know you have to keep drinking a lot. The first drinks station was well manned with half a dozen scouts who were very friendly but didn’t have any drinks! Mine and Alan’s tactics were to run at 3 hour pace for as long as possible. I think perhaps I subconsciously remembered Dan’s comment from the Edinburgh Marathon "If I had to summarise a marathon I would say prepare yourself for a steady, well paced 20 mile run with the most horrendous 10k imaginable thrown on top."

So I decided to ditch the 20 mile bit and ran 10K at perfect 3 hour pace! Basically my dodgy knee let me down, started hurting a lot after a couple of tight corners. At first I thought it would go away, then at 6 miles I thought I’d better slow down and perhaps pace Michaela round, by another 0.1 mile I’d decided I’d stop when we looped back to the start area and after another 0.1 mile I thought stuff it I’m walking! Have to say the friendliness of the other runners was brilliant. Of the 30 or 40 that went past me about half asked whether I was alright. Saw some more friendly faces a bit further along, Michaela’s entourage! Mum, Dad, Brother, Sister, Niece. Walked a little bit further and I was at a drinks station being manned by Bacon Man! It seemed he was asked by a lady to just cover for a minute and then he never saw her again. I got changed and then helped out at the drinks station with him. Soon got over my disappointment at stopping after seeing some of the suffering faces coming through. Even managed to get some butties for helping out. The drinks station was at about 16.5 miles in the race so we saw everyone come through. Dan finished the half in 1.38, excellent time and a pb. Alan was still on 3hr pace when he went past us but eventually the heat got to him. Still beat his pb by 3 mins in a time of 3.09 and 16th overall. Steve suffered in the heat and came in at 3.35. Michaela did brilliantly in her first Marathon, especially in the heat, coming in at 3.47 and 11th lady. Scott, Tracy and the twins were also down supporting so we had a really good A&T feel at the finish. 149 runners completed the marathon and 135 the half. Well done to all who ran. Fast course but a very tough day for distance running.

I’m now looking forward to joining the Pete Chan marathon training club, unfinished business for next year!

Message from Michaela - Fleetwood Marathon

"Just want to say a big thank you to Pete Mulleady for all his advice, support and for putting up with the earache from me on our training runs... everytime I was suffering I'd say "how many more miles Pete" every 10 seconds lol. I would not have completed the runs without Pete's motivation.

Thanks to Pete Chan for his nutritional and pacing advice. After completing my first marathon I really think the club will benefit by having Pete as the marathon coach especially for those runners who have not completed a marathon and for those who want to achieve a PB.

Lastly thanks to Bacon Mon (who I was surprised to see got roped into helping out on the water station...must have been to eye up the lady runners!) thanks to Dan, Scott, Tracey and the kids and to my family for their support yesterday! One marathon runner said to me "I think I've only seen one person who doesnt know you today".

Thanks Michaela

This Weeks Training Nights

This weeks training nights are Tuesday and Thursday

Monday’s training session is moving to Tuesday and Wednesday’s to Thursday.
So there will be no training sessions this Monday & Wednesday. This week only.

Tuesday and Thursday sessions will start at 6.30 from Miners Welfare at Gin Pit

Junior Session

Pete Mulleady is running the next Junior session on Sat 12th Sept at 9.30

If you have any kids you want to bring along for a bit of a run then you’re more than welcome. The session will be finished for 10.30 at the latest.

Please note: Parents / carers must stay with their children.

X Country - Tea and Biccies

Can all runners that are taking part in the X country champs and want to take advantage of Brenda's hot drinks, please remember that she needs £2.00 for the first race and £1.00 for each subsequent race.
She needs the initial £2.00 BEFORE the first race, so can you get it to her ASAP please.

Thanks

Rufford 10k Photos

Link to photos from the Rufford 10k, thanks to Chris from Burnden Roadrunners
http://www.flickr.com/photos/chr1sg/sets/72157622270139032/

Lichfield 10k - By Joanne "Gadget" Fairhurst

Well long time since I've wrote my last race report way back in April. In that time I've covered the Great Manchester Run, Mersey Tunnel 10km, Aldridge, Birchwood and today Lichfield in that vain attempt to get the magic hour at the 10km distance. Was a bit apprehensive after Birchwood because I'm struggling to run without getting pins and needles in myleftfoot. Nice leisurly drive down and a stop for coffee at Stafford Serviceson the way. 10/10 for directions to the race for somebody whos a complete stranger to the area. Arrived in plenty of time and very undecided about the weather, do I stick to my shorts or wear my full running tights. Managed to find somebody to natter to as women do lol but managed to calm a few newbie runners nerves. Least my Garmin was working this time so Icould get a better idea of pace. Off I went, sharp left turn just after the start, stuck with the women Id been chatting with for a while, 3km soon flew by and it was out onto the nice open country roads. Past a few nice looking pubs and people out watching teasing us with promise of nice cold drinks, the so and so's lol.

4km soon arrived and the cars disappeared and off we went onto a nice small country lane. But here we go, here comes the uphill part. People started to slow down and stop to catch their breath but managed to keep going and no pins and needles inthe foot YAY.

Past the drinks station and now settled into a decent pace. Whoops here we go, here comes the hill I was expecting and the 6km marker was right at the top. Managed to get up without stopping, dunno how though cause I'd had it. Got to the top and the polar heart rate monitor was telling me I was fit to drop, yeah right, can tell that without the gadget. Hate walking but dropped to a fast walk for about 100yrds just to get back into a manageable heart rate before I'd get scraped off the floor. Change of scenery now, up into a very nice looking housing estate and running along some nice paths. Plenty of support and the downhills,what a relief. Nearly back now and at 9km checked the Garmin. Deffo onfor a PB but what ? Well came in at 1hr 6mins and 5 sec that was 1min53sec better than my previous PB set at the Great Manchester Run Onwards and upwards. If you fancy a trip out to do a 10km a little fartherafield amongst some nice scenery then I'd recommend this one and it was great value too. Well onwards and upwards. I've booked Ormskirk, Southport and even my first foreign 10km in Berlin in October. HopefullyI'll get the magic hour by the end of the year.

ASTLEY AND TYLDESLEY DUATHLON CHAMPIONSHIPS

A SERIES OF 3 RACES

18th OCTOBER 9a.m.
22nd NOVEMBER 9a.m.
13th DECEMBER 9a.m.


A Time Trial Bike Ride over a 12 mile Course with no Marshalls.
Bike Ride - 12.01 miles http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=3113439

The run is a 2 lap x 2mile course .The race will start from the Red Lion car park at the top of Newbrook Road,A6 Crossroads.Please park on road if possible.
Run 2 loops 4.1 miles - http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=3167057


RULES OF DUATHLON SERIES
1 All cyclists must wear helmets.
2 Each athlete will be given a race number.
3 You must enter at least 3 days before the race.
4 If you enter but cannot race please let us know as soon as possible.
5 When you enter give estimated time of bike ride.
6 The slowest estimated time will start first,then every 30 seconds with the fastest time last.
7 When all cyclists are finished they will get changed ready for the run.
8 You must complete 2 of the 3 races to qualify .
9 If you do all 3 races your 2 fastest times will count.
10 There will be traffic lights on bike ride --approach with caution.
11 There will be a briefing at 8.50 a.m.
12 There will be 2 time keepers.


There will be trophies for the winners,which will be presented at Astley and Tyldesley Roadrunners Presentation Night on the 19th December.
Overall male and female winners
Vet 40 male and female winners
Supervet over 50 male and female winners

If anyone has any friends or relatives who would like to take part, the cost will be £4 per race or £10 for the series.Members of Astley and Tyldesley Roadrunners will have free entry.
We would like as many of our members as possible to give the races races a try.No matter what your ability you will be made welcome.

Entry Forms available from Bob or Craig from 9/9/2009.
Non Astley and Tyldesley members to enter on day.

RACE ORGANISERS
Bob Stevens Tel.01942 892028
Craig Bradbury Tel.07742433759

Rufford 10km – it’s raining PBs! - By Garry Baines

In near perfect conditions, 37 A&T members competed in the fast and flat Rufford 10km today.
We were expecting strong competition from Horwich in the Men’s Section and whilst they did bring a few of their big guns, Manny and Channy generally sorted them out and with some outstanding performances from A&T further down the field, we will have made up some ground in the CLGP.
Paul Mannion was first back for the club in overall fourth position in a quick time of 34:49. Pete Chan followed closely in 6th position overall and his time of 35:06 was quick enough to see off the challenge of John Howarth from Leigh Harriers in 7th and take home the V45 category prize. Unfortunately Pete wasn’t quick enough to outpace the wasp which stung him on the hand after the race.
Third for the club was Simon Ford in an impressive time of 36:01 which, I believe, represents a big PB for him.
Next was Mark Riches, dipping under 38 minutes for the first time in quite a while with 37:49. Scott Christey, still bang on form, was close behind with 38:02.
These performances brought us 2nd prize in the Men’s team category.
Then followed some outstanding runs and PBs from a number of our improving athletes. Steve Coleman regained his form to record 38:58 but one second behind was a superb PB run from Rufus Bennett, who only started running 6 months ago. Perhaps we all should have a crafty fag Rufus!
Three seconds behind Rufus came Mark Ruscoe with 39:02 –another huge PB. Malc Collins came home in 39:35 with Gary Atherton breathing down his neck with 39:38, again a PB. Troy Topping, short of training, finished in 39:54.
All these runners are now guaranteed Premiership status for next season.
Paul Jackson clocked 40:08 and Pete Mulleady, still in the throes of marathon training finished in 41:04.
More PBs came in the form of Alan Hilton 41:22, Terry Gardiner 41:24 and yours truly surprised himself with 42:10.
Alan Webb, Craig Bradbury (carrying an injury) Mark Lysycia and Dan Reason finished in the top half of the field with ‘Bacon Mon’ Hamilton dragging himself round in 45:17. I reckon since we’ve started eating Ian’s bacon, all our times have improved –don’t know what’s in there!

The Ladies came up against tough opposition from Burnden Road Runners on the day, but Michaela Shaw, in her last race before the Fleetwood marathon next week, collected a PB in 45:56. Good luck for next week Michaela!
In his first race for the club Wayne Babynec crossed the line in 46:23 and similarly Marcus Taylor did well on his debut with 46:59.
Brenda Wane completed the race in 47:22 despite injury and Mark Crowley showed signs of a return to form with 47:38. There are rumours circulating that a marathon may be on the horizon for Mark in 2010.
Steve Foster cajoled Ray Taylor round in 48:18 with Jodie Wagstaffe not far behind in 48:58. Carole Baines was pleased with her time of 49:05 with Lyndsey Carter dipping under 50 minutes with 49:48.
Solid efforts followed from Dave Pritchard, Michelle Fairclough , coughing like a 40-a-dayer, Vanessa Thomson and Julie Jenkins. Denise Babynec ran strongly on her first start and it’s great to see another husband and wife team competing for the club.
Finally Jenny Taylor put in a fantastic effort in her first race and came home with the Junior Ladies prize.

A huge huge thanks to all our members for their continued support and for the first timers, I hope you enjoyed not only the race but also the camaraderie.

A & T Fell Champs 2009 - Final Standings

Congratulations to Pete Mulleady and Brenda Wane for winning this seasons fell champs.

Male

1 P Mulleady 121
2 P Jackson 109
3 A Webb 95
4 J Foulds 70
5 M Collins 58
6 T Gardiner 48
7 S Ford 40
8 S White 38
9 M Ruscoe 38
10 C Bradbury 37
11 C Little 18
12 S Foster 17
13 D Ruscoe 16
14 P Basnett 15


Female

1 B Wane 58
2 M. Aguera 40
3 J Shea 20

Hades Hill fell race by Paul Jackson

Thursday evening saw the final fell race in the 2009 A&T Fell Champs.
Four A&T made the trip to Whitworth near Rochdale; me, Pete Mulleady, Terry Gardiner making his third appearance this year on the fells and a it was great to see Craig Little making a welcome return in the blue vest.
In last years race the hills were bathed with warm sunshine, but it couldn't have been more different this year as torrential rain battered the runners at the start and a cold wind and rain battered us on the way back in. Conditions were quite boggy in places but we weren't deterred and put in some good performances.
Laura Riches was having a bit of a 'run out' and had a great run coming in as first female, only 11 seconds off the course female record, then went off rugby training!

The finishing times were:

1st Ashley Kay (Rossendale) 33.35
13th Laura Riches (Leigh Harriers) 38.47
23rd Paul Jackson 41.02
38th Pete Mulleady 43.52
46th Craig Little 45.14
53rd Terry Gardiner 46.21

Congratulations go to Pete who has won the Fell Championship for the second successive year, and also ran all the races apart from Snowdon which was over subscribed.
I will post the final fell club champs results in the next few days.

Although the club fell races are over for this year, anyone interested in competing next year should invest in a pair of fell shoes and give the Cross Country a go in them over the coming weeks. Then you will be ready for the new season in 2010.
Thanks to all the members who have run any of the club fell races this year. Next year I hope to include some races which could double up as club days out in the Lakes/Yorkshire Dales etc.

Paul

Gin Pit 5 - Sunday 11th October

Gary Stevens has very kindly started a discussion forum on Runners World regarding our upcoming race. http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/events/viewevent.asp?sp=&v=2&EN=52197

It would be great if all members could start adding to the forum and "bigging up" our race to try and get as many people as possible interested in participating. We need to show that it is a great event, well organised and fun to be part of.
If you aren't a Runners World member then get yourself signed up online and start posting.

Don't forget that we still have vacancies for volunteers - check the link http://astleyrunners.blogspot.com/2008/01/gin-pit-5-volunteers.html and let me know if you can help make this the best Gin Pit 5 race yet.


Thanks
Terry

Leek Half Marathon - By Steve Coleman

On Sunday with good weather conditions John Foulds and myself did the Leek half marathon. One of the harder runs with 1220 feet of hills to go up, and not gentle ones. They may call it the Leek half marathon but it is out from a park and into the hills, only one small bit on a main road and the rest on quiet country roads. The organisers warn not to expect a good or normal half marathon time and I can agree with that!! John and I passed each other a few times during the race. I came in at 74th and 1 hour 37.02 and John 80th at 1h 38.23

Steve Coleman

Duathlon training....Monday 7 September 2009

It would be great to see as many members down as possible for what will be the last duathlon session of the season. The session will consist of run 5 laps easy...6 mile bike...run 5 laps hard...6 mile bike...run 5 laps hard.

Meet at Leigh Sports Village at 6pm

CLGP - Rufford 10k - By Garry Baines

Sunday see's a return to the CLGP competition with the 10km race at Rufford. There will be no problem with entering the race on the day.
The CLGP tables are tightly contested this season and whilst we are reasonably placed in the veterans and 'B' team categories, we are under great pressure from Horwich and Burnden in the Mens and Ladies Open categories.
For this reason it's absolutely vital that we get as many of our members, and importantly our top runners, to compete in this race. This could determine how the club finishes in the CLGP final placings at the end of the season.
For anyone wanting to travel in convoy, I suggest we meet at Atherton Station at 9.30 a.m. on Sunday for a race start time of 11a.m. Otherwise we'll see you there.
Remember this is a flat course so if your looking for a PB this is the one to go for!

Thanks for your support
Garry

Lymm Women’s Triathlon - By Lyndsey Carter

Decided to go for a second triathlon this year after enjoying Leeds! Bit of a lie in today, as the triathlon started later than normal, my swim time not being til 9.40. Held at Lymm school / leisure centre, the event was well orgqanised – well with the exception of the chaotic swim. A number of competitors didn’t turn up, so instead of sticking to waves, the organisers put swimmers in any lane at 5 minute intervals – needsless to say they was some argy bargy with overtaking in the lanes, (few stuck to the toe tapping to overtake) I tried to stay friendly with the very stocky woman in my lane who looked like she could have knocked me out in one attempt!
The bike was very scenic on the country roads round Lymm, though a bit lonely, as I saw only 2 other bikers on the whole course (both overtaking me very easily!) – making me paranoid that I’d gone the wrong way (and clocking 17 miles on the bike computer on a 23k course – still has me wondering?)
The run was also tough – 3 laps of the schools cross country course with a few sneaky hills in there! All in all I was knackered! But had great encouragement form Mark, Craig B, my mum and sister (I know – 4 cheerleaders – how lucky!), which really kept me going – Thanks!!

And for those Leeds competitors – the goodie bag was much better – T shirt, drinks, free sport massage and sport consultation!!! Not bad! Though – word of warning, keep an eye on Craig – everytime I turned round he was trying to put my T shirt on!!

Overall – great event, I came 22nd out of 50, so pleased with that. Would do it again next year!

Gin Pit 5 Race

To all members:-

I still need to fill some of the volunteer positions for the upcoming race on 11th Oct. There is a current list of roles in the link http://astleyrunners.blogspot.com/2008/01/gin-pit-5-volunteers.html

If you are available then please email me terrygardiner123@yahoo.co.uk

Also, please encourage your friends / family to enter either the main race or the fun run.

And if you are participating in any races prior to our race, then please take along a few of our race entry forms to hand out or leave on the registration desk. I have a pile of forms available , just ask me for some.

Thanks

Terry G

Marathon Advice & Coaching - By Peter Chan

Dear all,
As you may have read recently the club have very generously agreed to fund a coaching course for myself up to level II.
In order to offer some return on this investment and for me to actually get some coaching done I have offered to the club that I do coaching for the Marathon distance.
I think this is a popular event with us all and is unique in that you train hard with a focus on one day some 12 to 14 weeks distant.. As some of you may know I have previously coached this distance for a variety of athletes from beginner 'get you round' through to athletes looking to break 3hrs.
My initial thoughts are that anyone who is interested in a program contacts me, I will compile a short questionaire of what they have done so far and what they want to do, how much time can they allow for training and take it from there.
I can also offer some advice on diet and nutrition for the build up which is vital to keep the body in one piece.
I think the earliest Marathon would (probably) be London 2010 unless anyone is doing Luton/Majorca or somewhere obscure before then (its a bit too late for Fleetwood I think as it is only 2 weeks away).
I intend to compile 14 week plans for people and in that time also host relevent track sessions for the marathon group (or anyone else who'd like to join in of course) with key milestone sessions to gauge progress....
The target groups will be for beginners (get round in one piece), sub 4 hrs, sub 3.30 and sub 3.00.
I have been fascinated by the Marathon for many years and the approaches to taking on what is arguably one of the toughest endurance challenges available in road running. It really is the king of all the distances we compete in, very alluring in it's appeal but very difficult to get right on the day.
I have in the past completed most of my training on my own but this will be loads more fun ... so I hope we can get a few groups together ... I guarantee lots of laughs along the way.
"just 0.2 to go"

Pete