Thursday Run by Vanessa Thomson

The girls are meeting at Atherton Training Station at 6pm for a long run for those interested.

Around 9 m/m pace

 Vanessa

Gin Pit Marathon & Half Marathon Results

Results on link below

http://www.malcsblog.net/Gin%20Pit%20Trail%20Marathon%20Results%208-2011.xls

Trail / Off Road Shoes from Burden Road Runners

"Trail shoes are recommmended for the challenge due to a couple of wet area's on the trails with all the rain." 

Stewart Jones Burnden RR

If you don't have trail shoes then you will have to cope with road shoes!

Burnden v A+T v Swinton - Weds 31st August

The convoy will be leaving Atherton at 6.15pm prompt from Atherton Station Car Park or you can meet us at Anglezark at 6.45pm to get your numbers and race briefing (see directions below)

"Provisional" teams are now picked as below

1) Shaun Moran, Lewic Eccleston, Alan Hilton
2) Gary Stevens, Rufus Bennett, John Lee
3) Maria Lowe, Carole Baines, Josie Maley
4) Steve Coleman, Andy Coates, Jon Hyde
5) Marcus Taylor, Derek Coop, Mark Lysycia
6) Paul Basnett, Terry Gardiner, Suzanne Gregory
7) Barry Allman, Vanessa Thomson, Glyn Thomson
8) David Crowe, Garry Baines, Harrison 
9) Jane Eccleston, Emma Higgins, Sarah Wood
10) Clare Unsworth, Emma Stevens, Michelle Fuller

I have tried to keep teams all male or all female and in some cases friends together so its not all based on ability.

Any problems please email stevensgary@hotmail.com

Teams are currently provisional and could change on the night.

Directions to the start of the race :-
Travel on the A6 from Westhoughton onto the Black rod by-pass. Come to
the Horwich turn off B5238 carry straight on along the A6
You will then come to the Cherry Tree Inn (used to be called the
Thatch and Thistle) turn right onto Grimford Lane.
Along Grimeford Lane until you come to the cross roads, straight
across onto Rosco Lowe Brow, shortly followed by a T-junction tun left
following along Rosco Lowe Brow heading for Rivington.
You will come to a right turn signed Rivington carry straight on.
after this there is a sharp left bent as you go round this take the
next right turn
Nickleton Brow signed for the Yew Tree Inn (part of the Horwich
Jubilee course) Follow this road passed the Yew Tree Inn this road
becomes
Knowsley Lane leading to Anglezark Reservoir.
Could you please park your cars along the straight road at Anglezark Reservoir.
If you carry on, on foot along the road there is a sharp left turn
following the reservoir round keep going until another left hand bend
and the start
will be in front of you. This takes a couple of minutes jog from where
you parked your car.

Lancaster 5k by Garry Baines

Lancaster 5k – 27^th August

Carole & I went up to Lancaster on Saturday evening to take part in the latest race in the Lancaster 5k series. This was my first race in 7 months.

On the way up, Carole bought some snazzy new turquoise trainers from Sweatshop and decided to wear them for the race. Be prepared to wear shades if she’s running with you in the future. Anyway it seemed to do the trick for her as she came home as first Lady V45 with a fantastic PB time of 21:51, knocking over a minute off her previous best.

I, of course, started way too fast for my current fitness level but just about hung on to complete the race in 25:15, 15 seconds below my target.

Fleetwood Half Marathon by Paul Basnett

On an overcast, windy and generally miserable Sunday morning John Foulds and myself competed in the Fleetwood half marathon. I arrived a little late to the venue to find people queing for entry into the race. Thankfully my friend Kath sorted me out and I gave her £20, for my number in the race that is! Thanks Kath. I'd decided to do the race as a long T run as I like doing races but not keen on T runs and especially the long runs. I think this was my 42nd race of 2011 so far but being mostly 5k's. The race started at 10 and within 2 minutes of the start the heavens opened and I was soaked through to the skin and wondering what the hell I was doing here. After the initial shock the first 6.5 miles or so the wind and rain didn't bother me as much and I wondered why I felt great at around 5-6 miles. I later found out that this was because the wind was behind me as I turned onto the promenade by the sea wall. Here I was greeted with the wind and rain full on in the face which made the next mile and half a real slog! This was seperated by the odd wave hitting the sea wall and then showering you. The coastline gradually moved round so that the wind went from full on to side on to slightly behind and back to full on in face at around the 10 mile mark as you turned round for the run back to finish. The next mile or so I into the wind I felt like I was crawling as my legs felt like jelly. Thankfully again the coastline turned and the wind was behind me for the last mile or so and I picked up speed again to do the last half mile or so at a much faster pace passing numerous people. I finished the race in 179th position out of 312 runners with an official time of 1.48.42. John had finished serveral minutes earlier in 84th position with 1.35.20. The winner Rob Affleck of Preston Harriers ran it in a time of 1.13.38 and the first lady back was Carly Needham of Rochdale in an impressive 1.19.24 finishing 11th overall. For our troubles most people got a medal but probably because I got a backdoor number I was sympathetically given a pair of socks.

Gin Pit 5 Sunday 2nd October - Volunteers Wanted

Gin Pit Volunteers

We are looking for volunteers to help out on the day, if you plan to turn up to watch or know a family member / friend who can help us please let me know.

If you are racing and can help out before the race i could do with some extra help on the car parking.

The kitchen jobs which start from 9.30am is always the hardest the fill so i'd really appreciate a couple of volunteers .. if we can no volunteers we may have the close the kitchen.

If you can help with anything please let me know and as ever these things do not arrange themselves!

Volunteers so far ....

Race Organiser -Gary Stevens
2 x registration - Gary Stevens & Terry Gardiner
1 x Commentator - Garry Baines
Presentation -Mark Riches
2 x Kitchen staff - Clare Unsworth & Liz Ellicott
2 x Spot Prize/Medal Presenters - Caitlan and Ciara
3 x Car Park Attendees - Jane Eccleston, Mark Riches, Paul Basnett, Mark Lysycia
3 x Timekeepers - Terry Hughes, Mandy Baxendale
2 x Course Signage/Setting up course - Garry Baines
1 x Cyclist to lead runners -

1 x Chief Marshal - Craig Bradbury
10 x Course Marshals - Craig Bradbury, Debbie Laverick, Debbie Underwood, Michelle Fairclough, Christine Farnworth, David Crowe, Michaela Shaw, Brenda Wane, Sarah Sadler, Billy

Gary Stevens
Race Organiser
stevensgary@hotmail.com

Membership Update... Mark Lysycia

Hi Everyone,

 

Just wanted  to keep  members and potential new members reading this article  all informed as to what's happening with the membership at A+T.

 

We have had eight new members join us in the last few months

 

Alix Gilmore

Amanda  Ogden

Louise Dobson

Faye Knowles

 

Neil Hodgson

Andrew Howell

Ian Jones

Ian Bushrod

 

A warm A+T  welcome to all of you.

 

We have 4-6  others who have trained with us and also look to be joining the club.

 

 

We currently have 53 ladies and 68 men  training or taking part in races.

 

If anyone has  friends that are thinking of joining a running club  either just to keep fit or take part in the many races we do, there's no reason not to join us and  don't forget, its only £20 if they join now which will last them to the start of next year.

 

Benefits to be  had  by being a member of A+T  are as follows.

 

* Discount on  races between £2 and £3 per race

 

* Free once a week structured track sessions at Leigh sports village. Tough sessions but they bring your speed work along and it's a great team atmosphere. Mon 6.30pm

 

* Up to 6 days a week you can train with fellow members which may include Saturday/Sunday mornings depending on the racing calender.

 

 

* Being part of one of the friendliest and non elitist running clubs in the Northwest

 

 

*Fell, Cross Country, Relays, Road Races, Triathlons, Duathlons, swimming training sessions We do them all and have won many trophies in all of them.

 

Here are  a few of them done recently....

 

Alex Foster completed  in the Bolton Iron Man event in Bolton . We had Malcolm "marathon mon" Collins compete 10 marathons in 10 days! We had Mark Ruscoe compete in a 100 mile fell race,also Lyndsey Carter and Marcus Taylor completed  in the 50 mile fell race in the lake district.

 

 

* Not only a running club, we have a fantastic social section with events taking place throughout the year including free events like the Halloween spooktacular and the annual Christmas party/presentation which include a disco,late bar etc.

 

* Once you join,there are  120 new faces you can ask for advice,train with  or socialise with.

 

* Our web site,run by Terry  Gardiner and blog section, brilliantly managed daily  by Gary Stevens  is regularly updated and along with Facebook and e-mails,it's very easy to make new friends at Astley and Tyldesley RR.

 

We have a monthly newsletter produced by Clare Unsworth and Andrew Coates which is e-mailed out to every member keeping you all informed of up to date events,so every member is kept fully up to date of whats going on at the club. Easy to print out, its handy to see in hard copy the latest news.

 

Anniversary picture  on sale

 

Recently we had a 10 year A+T anniversary celebration picture  taken by Steve Bateson  with 41 members. These are  £2.95 for a quality print with your team colleagues,Good to look back in the future.Let me know if you would like one.

 

You can also e-mail Suzanne Gregory on soozyg@hotmail.co.uk or me regarding club kit,vests,tee shirts,jackets.

 

See Clare for the A+t Tri team hoodies... a  new line

 

You can e-mail Clare on claroj@hotmail.com or myself marklysycia@yahoo.co.uk. with any new profiles or pictures

 

Remember to e-mail Terry on terrygardiner123@yahoo.co.uk or me with your new pb's. We only know what they are if you tell us.

 

We have not added too many pictures to our picture section recently so again, if you have any from any race or even a holiday snap wearing the A+T colours please send them to Terry or myself The picture section on the web site is  only as good as the pictures members send in so don't be shy,send some in.

 

 

Club Vests

 

We are low on stock of the club vests but we need a minimum order so if anyone needs a vest please let us know. They are currently taking up to four weeks to come in.

 

Gin pit welfare membership  cards

 

To enable you to go into the welfare club and earn discounts of your drinks. If you haven't already got yours,let me know

 

 

EA Cards...      (English Athletics)

 

Sometimes, your EA number is required when entering a race, if you do not have your card or even your EA number,let me know.

 

 

Whatever the reason you want to join us I am 100% confident you will not regret  it. just ask the others at the club  Come and try us for a few weeks,talk to other members,e-mail me or any other committee member if you need any questions answered.

 

  

Anyone reading this and you feel you want to be part of a fantastic running club with a thriving social section just drop me a line or pick up the phone. You can even text me and I will get back straight away.

 

 

Thanks

 

 

Mark

 

marklysycia@yahoo.co.uk

Burnden v A+T v Swinton - Weds 31st August by Gary Stevens

Final Reminder ..

If you wish to take part in Wednesday's inter club challenge event against Swinton and Burnden please can you let myself or Garry Baines know asap so we can start to sort out the teams.

Remember its just 2 miles per runner in teams of 3 so no one should have anything to fear and you only run against runners of similar ability.

If you wish to take part please could you email me stevensgary@hotmail.com or facebook me

If you are coming back from injury or just back from holiday and your fitness is not 100% just let me know and i'll put you in one of the lower teams!

Full details on this link  
http://astleyrunners.blogspot.com/2011/08/burnden-v-at-v-swinton-weds-31st-august.html

Runners so far ...

Gary Stevens
Jon Hyde
Garry Baines (welcome back Garry!)
Carole Baines
Paul Basnett
Shaun Moran
Emma Higgins
Jane Eccleston
Sarah Wood
Mark Lysycia 
Josie Maley 
Alan Hilton
Clare Unsworth
Emma Stevens
Michelle Fuller
Lewis Eccleston
Vanessa Thomson
Glyn Thomson
Maria Lowe
Marcus Taylor
Suzanne Gregory
Terry Gardiner 
Steve Coleman 
Rufus Bennett
Derek Coop
Barry Allman

Meeting Agenda Sunday 4th September

Agenda item Sunday 4th September - Start 8pm  Gin Pit	AGENDA Owner
Welcome / Gill Pimblott presentation	MR
Performance of the Month (coaches & captains each nominate a stand-out performance)	ALL
British Triathlon Association	MR
Leigh Road Physio	MC
Gin Pit 5 02/10/11	MR
Road Champs	GB
Future of Gill Pimblott race	MR / ALL
Gin Pit Trail Marathon	MC
Wigan Borough Running Network	MR
Cross-country 2011/12	MR
Social events (Halloween Spooktacular 29/10/11 & Xmas Do 17/12/11)	MR
Vacant roles (Fell Captain / Social Events organiser & Road Captain)	MR
AOB	ALL
Next meeting / social	MR

A&T hit the Quays - by Clare Unsworth

 9 A &Ters braved the murky waters of Salford Quays!

After some persuasion Rufus, Jon Hyde and Colin came down to try open water swimming for the first time and after even more persuasion, encouragement and downright bullying John Lee also joined us!    
                                                                                             
Getting into that cold,deep,dark water for the first time takes some guts so well done to the first timers who got in, no messin and went for it!
It was a great evening, excellent training and a good example of A&T at its best, supporting each other,sharing experiences and having a laugh!
Open Water Swimming at the Quays is open until end of Sept so if anyone fancies trying it feel free to message myself or one of the others and we'll let you know more.     

Borrowdale Fell Race by Paul Jackson

On Saturday 6th August  I took part in this Lakeland classic fell race. The route is 17m/6500' ascent over and around some of the most dramatic Lakeland scenery.

There was quite a bit of rain before the race started, but thankfully the clouds stayed above the summits meaning we were in for a great day.

The race starts from Rosthwaite in the Borrowdale valley and the first ascent is to the summit of Bessyboot. The route then follows the ridge across to Glaramara with spectacular views of Langstrath and towards the Langdales. We then ran towards Allen Crags and onto Esk Hause to begin the climb to Scafell Pike summit. The route off Scafell Pike is to drop down before Broad Crag and enjoy a steep scree filled descent onto the Corridor Route which leads to the Styhead Pass and the foot of Great Gable. Then up Gable to the summit before taking the Bob Graham Round route over Green Gable, Brandreth and Grey Knotts before dropping into Honister Pass. I managed to beat the cut-off there by 40 minutes before starting the tough climb up Dalehead. Not on it's own a tough climb but a tough test after the previous ascents. I dropped off Dalehead via the tarn and into Rigghead Quarries, where the wet slate strewn path would have been treacherous for those battling it out at the front. The path drops back down into Rosthwaite to the finish field.

I made it in 4hrs 53 mins which I as pleased with for my first attempt.

The winner, Ambleside's Ben Abdelnoor, blasted round in 2hrs 52.

This truly is a classic race on some really tough terrain, but all the same a fantastic experience.

Birchwood 10k by Paul Basnett

On a warm Sunday morning 13 A&T members made their way up to Birchwood for the annual 10k organised by Spectrum Striders. It seemed most of the pre-race talk was about disclaimers as to why we would not do very well on this run. This ranged from one half too many at the Friday night A&T outing from me, to Bacon Mons 6 pints the night before! Well thinking about it there wasn't much of a range of excuses it was mostly about the booze! After a brief warm up and photo session we took up our respective positions on the start line. Around 650 competitors started the race with the winner Nick Jones of Tipton Harriers running a time of 31.34. First back for A&T and taking the junior male prize in the process was Lewis Eccleston in a time 36.54. Well done Lewis for what I'm sure will be one of many prizes to come. Next home was Rufus Bennett with 40.40 who didn't need a toilet stop on this occasion. Then came Jacket Mon Mark Lysycia who was disappointed with his time of 43.50 which he attributed to the lack of "T" word over the last few weeks. Don't worry Mark I don't think Pops will be beating you just yet! A welcome site of Craig Bradbury in an A&T vest was next with 45.20 who was closely followed by Carole Baines with 46.34. Bacon Mon Ian Hamilton was hot on her heels with 46.49 so I must ask him what pints he drinks! Dave Crowe was next with 48.32 who passed me badly faltering in the closing stages to run in 49.04. Then came Mike Geoghegan and Micheala Shaw, both returning to road racing after injury lay offs with 50.08 and 50.40 respectively. Sarah Wood and Cath Hodgetts both ran in with 57.41. Completing the line up was Emma Higgins, who was feeling a bit under the weather but still dipped under the magic 1 hour mark with 59.52. For our troubles we all received a luxury bath towel and the ladies also received a bunch of flowers.

Mike Ogle

Sad news to hear of the death of Mike Ogle, a blind runner who was a regular competitor on the racing circuit representing Chorley Harriers.

Mike , 62, had been taking part in the Burnsall Feast Sports race in Yorkshire when he collapsed on Saturday and later died of a suspected heart attack.

You can read more at the link below


http://www.thisislancashire.co.uk/news/9209479.Tributes_to_Chorley_fell_runner/

Open Water Swimming at Salford Quays by Dale Kenyon

For anybody interesting in trying open water swimming, a few of us will be going to Salford Quays this Wednesday 24/8/11 as USwim hold a session 5:30 – 8:00pm. I believe most of us will be getting down there for 6:00pm though.

Cost is £5.00 for the duration and there are 400m and 750m loops that are marked out with buoys and also safety boats on hand (just for your piece of mind). Wetsuit hire is available at £5.00 plus a deposit of £10.00 (they are usually quite flexible with the deposit though).

It is at Dock 9 not the water sports facility. Speak to me (Dale), Alex or Clare if you need directions (or a lift). It’s not as bad as you think or as cold as you think and there’s tea and cakes when you get out!!

Also – for anyone interesting in other (pool) swim sessions, there are a lot of us attending Thursday night sessions at Howe Bridge from 8:30pm and a coached session at Horwich Sunday evenings from 5:30pm

Social events for your diary

Halloween Spooktacular - Gin Pit - Saturday 29th October
Xmas do / Presentation Night - Gin Pit - Saturday 17th December

Both the above are free to members and family members

Keep posted to the blog for more details

Message from Marathon Mon!

I’m planning on running 2 laps of the Gin Pit Trail Marathon course on Tuesday evening 23^rd August. I will be at the Gin Pit at 6:15pm for a 6:30pm start. If you have entered this race and would like to “recky” the course or simply fancy a mid week trail run, you are more than welcome to come along.  Each lap is 4.37 miles. It’s not a speed session and we will be going at the pace of the slower runners. You are also welcome to do just 1 lap if you so wish.

Malc Collins 
malc26.2@gmail.com

Horwich 5 Results

15th Alan Hilton 30.14
17th Scott Christey 30.28
29th Colin Kay 32.09

98 finishers

Northern Athletics Road Relay Championships

The Northern Athletics Road Relay Championships are due to take place at Birchwood Park, Warrington on Saturday 24th September in the afternoon. The event is being hosted by Spectrum Striders.

The Women's event consists of 4 stages of approximately 4.9k each.

The Men's event consist of 6 stages of approximately 6k each.

Last year the club made a tremendous showing in these events at Wythenshawe Park, Sale and held their own against some established athletes from all other the North of England.

I would like us to pitch at least one team in each category in this year's events and we should try to make them as strong as possible.

Please let me know if you're available to compete either by e-mail, Facebook or phone. My e-mail address is: garrybaines@aol.com

Thank you.

Garry Baines

Burnden v A+T v Swinton - Weds 31st August by Gary Stevens

I am now taking names to compete in the Swinton / Burnden / A&T Challenge on Wednesday 31st August.

The concept of the event is the same as it was at the Gin Pit in which teams of 3 runners of similar ability will run a 2 mile loop each against other runners of similar ability .. this event is low key and fun so EVERYONE can take part and feel welcome.

So far i have about 6 names but ideally we would like 30 plus in the event from A&T.

This race is hosted by Burnden and will be be a similar course to the Horwich 5 event so expect it to be "gently" undulating.

Burnden are putting on food after the event and have asked each runner to make a small contribution after the race.

Travel Arrangements for the day ...

I suggest the convoy leave from Atherton Train Station at 6.15pm to arrive at Anglezarke Car Park at 6.45pm.  Myself and Garry Baines will sort out the teams and distribute numbers on the night .. the race itself starts at 7.30pm.

If you are travelling on your own the directions are

Travel on the A6 from Westhoughton onto the Black rod by-pass. Come to
the Horwich turn off B5238 carry straight on along the A6
You will then come to the Cherry Tree Inn (used to be called the
Thatch and Thistle) turn right onto Grimford Lane.
Along Grimeford Lane until you come to the cross roads, straight
across onto Rosco Lowe Brow, shortly followed by a T-junction tun left
following along Rosco Lowe Brow heading for Rivington.
You will come to a right turn signed Rivington carry straight on.
after this there is a sharp left bent as you go round this take the
next right turn
Nickleton Brow signed for the Yew Tree Inn (part of the Horwich
Jubilee course) Follow this road passed the Yew Tree Inn this road
becomes
Knowsley Lane leading to Anglezark Reservoir.
Could you please park your cars along the straight road at Anglezark Reservoir.
If you carry on, on foot along the road there is a sharp left turn
following the reservoir round keep going until another left hand bend
and the start
will be in front of you. This takes a couple of minutes jog from where
you parked your car.

If you wish to take part please could you email me stevensgary@hotmail.com or facebook me asap so i can start putting the teams together.

If you are coming back from injury or just back from holiday and your fitness is not 100% just let me know and i'll put you in one of the lower teams!

Runners so far...

Gary Stevens
Jon Hyde
Craig Bradbury
Garry Baines (welcome back Garry!)
Carole Baines
Paul Basnett
Shaun Moran
Emma Higgins
Jane Eccleston
Sarah Wood
Mark Lysycia 
Josie Maley 
Alan Hilton
Clare Unsworth
Emma Stevens
Michelle Fuller
Lewis Eccleston
Vanessa Thomson
Glyn Thomson
Maria Lowe
Marcus Taylor
Suzanne Gregory

Terry Gardiner

Gary S 

Sunday 18th September 2011

From 1.00pm at Brinscall, Chorley Swimming Pool

 

Two distances:
Short 400 yds, 2 miles
Long 800 yds 4 miles

Entry Fee: 
BTA members £21 (long) £16 (Short)
Non-members £23 (long) £18 (short)
£1 discount for online entry at
www.ukresults.net

BTA sanctioned races require non members to hold a day membership of the BTA which provides participants with civil liability and personal accident insurance cover for the event. Please note, your name and address will be passed to the BTA for the purposes of providing you with day membership for the event

Links

Competitor Information

Downloadable entry form

UkResults link for online entry

Long Run - by Cath Hodgetts

Anyone up for a long run before malc's half marathon let me know. I've nothing planned yet. Trying to organise for any of the more leisurly runners (like me who take their time, not going flat out). Dont be shy, you know you want to.

Pace will be 9-10 min/mile. Mileage can be adjusted to suite, but would like to 7+ miles. saturday afternoon or one evening. anyone interested can email or FB me. Thanks

Cath

Coniston Open Water Swim – 14/08/11 by Dale Kenyon

Coniston Open Water Swim – 14/08/11

On a lovely day in the lakes, 4 of the A&T tri team along with Neil Unsworth (Clare’s Husband), Hannah Foster (sister to Alex and ball and chain to myself) and Craig Bradbury competed in the re-arranged Coniston Open Water Swim Series. We were all attempting the 1 mile swim with the exception of Craig who had obviously taken inspiration from a recent day out in Bolton and decided to do the 2.4 iron distance swim. The weather was a lot kinder to us than the first attempt that Clare and Neil had entered which had to be cancelled due to safety concerns. After a few quick team photo’s we were in our wetsuits and wading out into the water which wasn’t as cold as we’d feared. There was a short swim out to the start buoys where we were briefed on the course and participating in a random rendition of heads, shoulders, knees and toes. What followed next was one of the most terrifying things I’ve ever been involved in as 236 of us were set off by the hooter and were swimming into, on top of, and through each other. After a punch in the back of the head and a kick in the face I was wondering what the hell I was doing there but the field soon spread and we found clear water to swim into. One lap of the lake later we were coming into shore and had a short run to go over the timing mat. Alex was predictably first A&T home in 11^th position with a time of 24.21, followed by Hannah 28^th – 28.21, Myself (Dale) 85^th – 34.02, Helen Minshall 149^th – 38.19, Neil Unsworth 172^nd - 41.10 and Clare Unsworth 175^th – 41.33. Clare obviously has Neil in her sights and made a sprint for the line after coming out of the water, after a few strides she was seemingly missing the feel of the water and decided to dive head first for the wet stuff again!! She made a few places up with this burst however so I’m sure the tumble was worth it!!  All in all it was a really tough course (I didn’t know that was possible in swimming) which reflected in the finishing times but it was a beautiful setting and great effort by all involved.

You too can become lighter than air and run 5 miles in less than 30 minutes by training regularly with A&T! 

Congratulations to Lewis and the rest of Team A&T.

Photos of July 2011 Horwich 5 at:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/runinpics/sets/72157627243093602/
Andy Coates

Lakeland 50 by Lyndsey Carter

Lakeland 50  - Lyndsey Carter

Around 9 months ago I decided to enter the Lakeland 50, knowing Mark had booked onto the Lakeland 100, I knew he would be great support in getting me in shape for the event!  Since then, along with Davis, Marcus and Greg – we have spent many a weekends  (mainly wet!!) traveling up the M6 for long reccee days over the course. 

We arrived on the Friday, as Mark and David were starting the 100 later that day, we got registered and weighed in (with our weight wrote on a wrist band round of wrists for the mdical team at checkpoints, just what every girl wants, specially when you weight more than the boys!!!!)  Already the sun was burning, we knew we were in for a tough couple of days.  At 5.30pm all the Lakeland 100 starters, including Mark and David  lined up and were off.  Marcus and I weren’t starting til 12 noon on the Saturday, and I must admit, I did feel a bit guilty when later that night we went out for a pub tea, knowing they were about to start their night stages! 

After a quick breakfast and briefing on Saturday morning, Marcus and I took the coach to Dalemain near Pooley Bridge to start the race.  Sods law it was another scorching hot day...great for the spectators, not so great for us.  Each one of us had to carry a ruck sac full of safety kit, food, water, survival bag.......you name it. 

The first half my race didn’t quite go to plan, only 30 minutes into the race I had a nasty fall, cutting my shoulder, elbow hands and leg – I had a couple of minutes to recover on the floor and got back up and kept moving (bit embarrassing really!).  Then for the next 4 hours or so I had severe cramps in my legs, to the point where I had to sit on the ground as I couldn’t walk...this is something I had never experienced before (or want to again) so talk about timing!! The cramping uphill's were the worst and took me about twice as long as they should have, fellow runners were very supportive, but there wasn’t a lot anyone could do for me, my only plan at that stage was to finish the race, any times I hoped for were out of the window.  The cramps subsided on the downhill's, but kept coming back in fits and starts (I did look like I was doing some kind of rain dance when they were at there worse.....some of the 100 runners may have thought they were hallucinting at this sight!!) 

The second half of the race was a bit easier in a sense, it was cooler, I think I managed to get my salt levels up so the cramps were less, andIi was getting into a rhythm – I also knew my family were going to be at Ambleside, the 34 mile point so this spurred me on to keep going.  Seeing my family was such a lift, I was tired then and hungry...but didn’t really want anything to eat (for those of you who know me well...this is not like me ....at all!!!).  I put my jacket and head torch on and headed into the dark, I was on my own for the 1st couple of miles going into the fells, which was a bit eerrie, as there is no lights ahead of you or behind you, and even though I felt confident with the route, it put this challenge into perspective. 

I caught up with a group ahead of me and buddied up with a guy there until the next checkpoint.  At Langdale checkpoint I had a brew and some beef stew and felt a little better, the guy I buddied up with though didn’t feel so good and wanted to stay there a little longer, I really wanted to keep moving towards the end, so I set off from Langdale on my own.  Again, this was a bit scary, as it is just complete blackness, quietness and me (or so it felt), I caught up with 2 of the Lakeland 100 competitors and decided to stay with them for a while.  Soon another group caught up and I picked the pace up with them, just wanting to get to the final checkpoint, then the finish.. 

The last 2 legs I seemed to get a burst of energy and was feeling strong, so when I hit the last checkpoint I was met by Adrian Hope from Lockstock who was manning the station, again, great to see a friendly face, I didn’t stop for long, quick cup of coke, bit of flapjack and off I went.  The last leg is cruel, only 3 miles, but it’s a big climb followed by a difficult descent (particularly in the dark on very tired legs), but I managed to run most over the way, and picked up a lot of places at the same time.  It felt so good knowing I was nearly there. 

At the end I came in to see my family and Mark waiting for me, I then looked round to see Marcus had also just come in, surprisingly we finished so close together and never saw each other at any point in the race!!! 

Of the 469 who started the race I finished 143rd in 14hours and 23 minutes, am  I’m really pleased with that.  Marcus  came 137th in 14 hours 19 minutes, another brilliant achievement!! 

Mark and David met their own demons throughout their event.  Mark was in 8th position for a good part of the race, then at 70 miles his legs were completely shot and he had to walk the last 34 miles, despite that he still finished in joint 16th place!!!! (We have since found out it was a stress fracture in the shin!) David was going really strong then from approximately mile 40 suffered badly with his feet and at 78 miles (and 23 hours and 41 minutes of running) he was forced to retire with lost toe nails and severe blisters – how David got through those 38 miles in that much pain is beyond me, much respect! I wouldn't be surprised if he will be back to sort out some unfinished business in the future! 

Lastly, big thanks to our families and Craig and Debbie for coming up to support us , I know it was a long couple of days for you all, but it meant so much!!  The volunteers at each check point were amazing, many of them fed us and looked after us for 2 days solid, and always with a big smile and great encouragement. couldn't have asked for better!   And thanks to mark, after 29 hours 03 minutes to stay up and watch me finish!

NVAC 10K Sunday 14/08/11 – by Mark Riches

18 A&T runners turned up on a very windy Sunday morning to race along the promenade at Bispham, Blackpool. The 5 minutes + jog to the start acted as the warm-up & after the usual ‘good luck’ A&T handshakes, we were given a ‘brief’ explanation of the course including the very good advice to “keep left when passing the fishermen” it would be difficult to pass on the right without getting very wet as they were fishing from the sea wall!

The hooter went & approx. 130 runners set off; after about one mile we turned back on ourselves & then had 3 miles along the lower promenade before climbing back up to the upper promenade for the long straight run into the finish

By the first turn Simon Ford had disappeared into the distance but I could see Alan Hilton & Pete Chan battling it out a few minutes in front of yours truly (Mark Riches.) I was working very hard trying to close the gap with Andy Staveley (Burnden) but it wasn’t getting any smaller! At around 2 miles Sean McMyler (Horwich) joined us & started to push the pace. As we climbed back to the upper promenade I noticed the gap was finally closing & I started to think about not only beating Alan but that this was my best chance ever of actually beating Pete!

We had dropped Andy (who is just returning from a long lay-off) by this point but I was determined to hang on to Sean; with less than a mile to go we went past Alan & then a Burnden runner; Pete was next or so I thought! At this point Pete & Sean started to race each other & I just had nothing left & the finish line just never seemed to get any closer. I somehow managed to stay in front of the Burnden runner & Alan, who had another great run & was rewarded with another PB

Simon, who is definitely on his way back with an excellent 35:55, was first A&T finisher followed by a below-par Pete (37:09) then me & Alan within 6 seconds of each other (37:19) & (37:25)

Maria Lowe was next A&T finisher with another great run (40:31) which also gave her 2^nd lady overall. Then it was Derek Coop (42:54) Jean Mann (43:04) & fresh from his epic 50 mile race, Marcus Taylor (43:52)

Ian Hamilton had a good run (46:24) despite doing a very good impression of Nasser when he fell over the line literally! Next it was Suzanne Gregory, who also had a good one (47:07) & was rewarded with a bottle of wine as 1^st F35 overall. There was 10 seconds between the next 2 A&T finishers, Glyn Thomson (47:24) & David Crowe (47:34.) The next 2 A&T finishers almost crossed the line together Robin Chan (48:16) & Paul Basnett (48:17) followed by Laura Babynec (48:27)

Completing the line-up Vanessa Thomson (49:04) Barry Allman (52.21) & Cath Hodgetts, who got lost but she did finish although not sure her time is correct – well done everyone

We enjoyed Alan’s post race flapjack while we waited for the presentation – I can recommend it (the flapjack that is!)

Next Club race – Swinton 10 mile 25^th September 2011

Tri Team Hooded Tops

I will be ordering some royal blue hooded jumpers with A&T Tri Club logo on for our tri team soon. Not got all the details yet but I think they will be between £10-15 each.
If you think you would like one could you please let me know and also what size (S,M,L - think they are unisex ones) asap.
You can email, facebook or text me claroj@hotmail.com  mobile: 07753 618809

 Thanks

Clare

NVAC 10K

The convoy to Blackpool is leaving at 9.15am prompt from Atherton Train Station.

The postcode is FY2 9EA not as per the entry form.

Burnden v A+T v Swinton - Weds 31st August by Stew Jones Burnden RR

Subj: Burnden v A+T v Swinton

Hi Everyone,

Well its getting closer to the tri club challenge on Wednesday 31st
August 2011 - meeting at 6:45 hrs,for the race starting at 19:30 hrs.

The format will be much the same as that of the first challenge A+T
put on. It will be a relay race. 3 x 2miles on a undulating course.
This is intended to be a light-hearted, fun challenge and is designed
to involve runners of all abilities in all three clubs.

We will be meeting at the bottom of Anglezarke car park and would
asked people to car share were possible or if possible meet at the Bay
Horse
car park then car share from there as the presentation will be there
after the race.

Directions to the start of the race :-
Travel on the A6 from Westhoughton onto the Black rod by-pass. Come to
the Horwich turn off B5238 carry straight on along the A6
You will then come to the Cherry Tree Inn (used to be called the
Thatch and Thistle) turn right onto Grimford Lane.
Along Grimeford Lane until you come to the cross roads, straight
across onto Rosco Lowe Brow, shortly followed by a T-junction tun left
following along Rosco Lowe Brow heading for Rivington.
You will come to a right turn signed Rivington carry straight on.
after this there is a sharp left bent as you go round this take the
next right turn
Nickleton Brow signed for the Yew Tree Inn (part of the Horwich
Jubilee course) Follow this road passed the Yew Tree Inn this road
becomes
Knowsley Lane leading to Anglezark Reservoir.
Could you please park your cars along the straight road at Anglezark Reservoir.
If you carry on, on foot along the road there is a sharp left turn
following the reservoir round keep going until another left hand bend
and the start
will be in front of you. This takes a couple of minutes jog from where
you parked your car.

Presentation:
Will be at the Bay Horse. If you go back to the Yew tree which will be
on your left, up the hill (Nickleton Brow) to the T Junction, turn
right over the
motorway bridge, the Bay Horse will be in front of you. Turn left onto
Babylon Lane,then right around the back of the pub and you'll see the
car park.

Food will be layed on for everyone, all we ask is that you donate a
small contribution when we pass around a collection glass.
Also there will be a few prizes given to teams taking part.

Gin Pit Marathon

The Gin Pit Trail Marathon Event

The Gin Pit Trail Marathon event is coming up on Bank Holiday Monday 29^th August.

There are two races both starting and finishing at the Gin Pit.

The start time for both events is 10am.

The main event is a full marathon, 26.2 miles which consists of 6 loops of the trails and yes the Gin Pit Hill features once in each loop. This is an event that is open to anyone as long as they can meet the criteria on the entry form.

Follow this link for further details and to down load an entry form:-

http://www.malcsblog.net/?p=1156

The second event is a half marathon which will be 3 loops of the same course as the marathon. This event is ONLY open to Astley and Tyldesley club members.

Follow this link for further details and to down load an entry form:-

http://www.malcsblog.net/?p=1228

At present it is looking like there will be about 20 running the marathon and 10 running the half. There are medals for all finishers of both events.

I am looking for volunteers, to help give out numbers before the race, time keeping, lap counting and monitoring the water station at the Gin Pit. These jobs are not overly onerous as there aren’t a large number of runners. If you only fancy helping for part of the race that is fine as the time keeping and lap counting can be done in shifts. If you are interested in helping please contact me at malc26.2@gmail.com or 07739 393 393.

If you have any questions about the event feel free to contact me.

Even if you are not running or helping you are all more than welcome to come down to the Gin Pit on the day to cheer the runners and take photos for Facebook!

Pasties and hot drinks will be available from the Gin Pit Kitchen.

Good luck to the runners and I look forward to seeing some of you there on the day.

Malc Collins