Travel to the Gin Pit

Anyone travelling to the Gin Pit 5 on Sunday from the Bolton area should be aware that the A579 is closed between 4 Lane Ends and Atherton.

We recommend that an alternative route is taken either via Westhoughton or Little Hulton.

Thank you.

Garry Baines

Virgin London Marathon April 2012 – by Mark Riches

The online ballot for the 2012 Virgin London Marathon is now closed. If you've already entered the ballot, I understand that you will know in very soon if you've been successful.

If you do not secure a place in the ballot you may still be able to run in 2012 with an A&T Road Runners Club place

Athletics clubs associated with UK Athletics (UKA) can apply for club entries into the 2012 Virgin London Marathon. The number of entries given to each club is based on the number of first claim members the club has – we have got 3 places for 2012

If you are unsuccessful in the ballot, and meet the criteria below, please let me know & I will put your name down for a Club place (if there are more names than places it will be ‘names in the hat’ at Presentation night)

1. ·       Members must have entered & been rejected from the London Marathon
2. ·       Members must be at least in their second year of membership
3. ·       Members must be first claim to Astley & Tyldesley Road Runners
4. ·       If a member has had a Club place before they cannot enter the Club ballot
5. ·       If after this ballot there are any places left, members who fulfil all the above but have had a Club     place before can go into a second ballot

You can email me mark.riches@talk21.com

Gin Pit 5 - Sunday 2nd October

This Sunday is our Gin Pit 5 .. a BIG thank you to everyone who has volunteered to help out for this race which has made my job a lot easier.

Please see the volunteers list below and what time i would like you to be at the club.

We would like as many runners in the race itself so if you have not already entered you can enter on the day, just see the two good looking fella's at registration!

All finishers get a very handy more mile shoe bag ideal for your muddy x-country spikes.

There is the usual extensive prize list for the 1st 3 men and laides, 1st juniors and all the vet prizes.

There is also a 2 mile fun run which starts at 10.30am and all finishers will receive a medal .. kids very welcome to take part.

See you Sunday.

Race Organiser -Gary Stevens 9am
2 x registration - Gary Stevens & Mark Riches 9am
1 x Commentator - Garry Baines
Presentation -Mark Riches
2 x Kitchen staff - Clare Unsworth & Liz Ellicott 9.30 - 10am
2 x Spot Prize/Medal Presenters - Caitlan and Ciara 10am
5 x Car Park Attendees - Jane Eccleston, Simon Ford, Barry Allman, Paul Basnett, Mark Lysycia 9.30am
3 x Timekeepers - Terry Hughes,  Michaela Shaw - 10am
2 x Course Signage/Setting up course - Garry Baines Steve Underwood, Craig Bradbury
1 x Water - David Crowe
1 x Chief Marshal - Craig Bradbury
10 x Course Marshals - Craig Bradbury, Debbie Laverick, Debbie Underwood, Michelle Fairclough, Christine Farnworth,  Brenda Wane, Sarah Sadler, Billy, Glyn Thomson (all see Craig at 10am latest)

FLEETWOOD TRIATHLON – Sunday 25th September 2011 by Dale Kenyon

On Sunday morning 13 of the growing A&T tri section arrived in Fleetwood to make up part of the 393 competitors in the 3^rd Triathlon of the Fylde Trilogy Series. Alex Foster and Clare Unsworth had participated in the first two at Ribby Hall and St. Anne’s and were completing the Trilogy, while John Lee, Jon Hyde, Colin Rigby and myself were participating in our second of the series after St .Anne’s. We had a few Triathletes competing with previous experience such as Craig Bradbury, Neil Hodgson, Helen Minshall and Alix Gilmore and also some Triathlon newbies in Lewis Eccleston, Jane Eccleston and Rufus Bennett. There seemed to be a blue A&T Tri hoody on every corner and to be the 2^nd best represented club was a great achievement considering only recently become an official triathlon club!!

On arriving to find a car parked in the middle of transition we wondered if this was a ploy to try and keep up with the Lee’s and the Foster’s of this world on the bike section, but it turned out just to be an abandoned car……and I’m not convinced it could have kept up with them two anyway!! The weather was a lot kinder to us then the 30mph winds we had at St Anne’s but it did pick later in the morning to ensure the flat courses were still challenging. The preliminary results are below although we expect some alterations to them, Jane Eccleston’s average bike speed of 60mph has raised a few eyebows as has Jon Hyde’s 10 minute 5K time!! Although it should be said that Jon’s overall time is expected to be right, just the splits that need adjusting….whereas Jane had a few issues in counting the laps required on the bike leg!! I can’t possibly comment on Jane’s minor indiscretion without mentioning my unnecessary circling of a roundabout (how you go the wrong way on an out and back course is beyond me!!) or Lewis’s extra 2 lengths on swim…I like to think he was just giving a few of us a chance!!

Massive well done to Alex Foster who finished 2^nd in the race and 3^rd in the series overall to bring home the silverware for A&T!!

2^nd – Alex Foster – 56’43

20^th – John Lee – 1’00’52

28^th – Lewis Eccleston – 1’02’17

39^th – John Hyde – 1’03’02

43^rd – Colin Rigby – 1’03’20

103^rd – Dale Kenyon – 1’08’25

118^th – Craig Bradbury – 109’39

125^th – Neil Hodgson – 1’10’07

139^th – Rufus Bennett – 1’11’13

300^th – Helen Minshall – 1’25’14

307^th – Clare Unsworth – 1’26’25

318^th – Alix Gilmore – 1’27’46

70^th – Jane Eccleston – TBC

Well done to Jane and Rufus who did fantastic in their first triathlon and Lewis especially coming 28^th in his first even with doing an extra 50m in the pool….. but are we really surprised??? The same goes for Alex’s dad Tony Foster who completed the course in 1’20’46 in his first triathlon and really should be training with A&T anyway. Get on it jacket mon!!

Special mentions must go to the spectator who decided to give Neil Hodgson a good rollicking for his conduct on the course, as well as reporting him to a marshal…only to realise he had mixed Neil up with another competitor!! The chip timing official for surviving the confusion of telling John Lee he finished 1 hour 52 which John took to mean minutes when it was in fact 1 hour 52 seconds!! And to Chief Marshall Terry Hughes who did a great job of clearing the run area when the ‘official’ marshals seemed to be struggling!!

A great overall performance by A&T. Well done everybody!! Thanks for the support too by the usual suspects too!!

Wednesday Training

We are meeting at the Gin Pit tomorrow (Wednesday) as normal but Shaun would like us to be there at 6.15pm and start the warm up no later than 6.25pm.

The session is 20 x 1 min efforts with decreasing recovery finished off with 4 hills.

Halloween Spooktacular - CANCELLED

Due to low expected numbers this year's Halloween Spooktacular is cancelled.

We are sorry for anyone who was going to attend.

Friday Beers

Friday Beers!!!

Don't forget our club night out this Friday! Drinks round Atherton! Starting in Atherton Arms at 7.30pm but turn up when you like! Everyone invited, friends and family welcome!

Dumfries Half Marathon by Steve Coleman

Sunday saw me doing the 30th Dumfries half marathon. A warm day with strong head winds on a hilly course. Managed to best last years time coming in 32nd at 1h 29m 29s. A good bag, with tech T shirt, medal and towel. Not a good course for a PB!

A&T Fell Champs 2011- Latest Standings/Next Race

Please find attached the latest standings in the Fell Champs with two races to go. 

 

The penultimate champs race of the year is the Good Shepherd Fell Race on Saturday 8th October 2011. This wasn't in the original fixture list but was added after Pendle Cloughs was taken out in May.

 

It is a 14mile/2000ft ascent race starting at the Good Shepherd Centre, Mytholmroyd. See goodshepherdfellrace.co.uk for further details. 

 

http://www.astleyrunners.co.uk/documents/blog_docs/fell2011leagues.xls

‘Brenda’s Café’ – by Mark Riches

The x-country season is almost upon us once again (1^st race Saturday 8^th October) so seems like a good time to remind everyone about ‘Brenda’s Café’

Brenda has provided refreshments after Club Champs x-country races (coffee / hot Vimto / biscuits etc.) in previous years & is happy to do so again this year

The cost will remain at £1 per race payable to Brenda on the day

Swinton 10 by Paul Basnett

On Sunday morning 21 A&T members made the short journey upto Swinton for penultimate race of this years CLGP. The race itself is 10 mile with a downhill start, followed by 2 undulating loops and to finish a hill climb on tired legs. The race was completed by 177 competitors in which James Kevan of Horwich RMI won it with a time of 54.02. First back for A&T with a storming run was Simon Ford in 57.27 and taking the 3rd position prize in the process. Shaun Moran was next in 11th overall with 60.45. Mark Riches followed him home with 62.45 and 15th position. Then came Neil Christie in his first race in A&T colours with a time of 66.00 who just edged it over Scott Christey clocking 66.04. Colin Kay was next who had a great run to take the V55 prize with 66.48. Stuart Adamson came in with 69.25 who was followed home by Mark Lysycia with 72.42. Having another fantastic run was Carole Baines (75.05) who just managed to overhaul Ian "Bacon Mon" Hamilton (75.15) on the final hill. Suzanne Gregory came home next and dipping under in the 80 minute mark with 79.31. Then came Michaela Shaw who seems to be regaining her fitness after injury with 81.24. Then it was myself (81.45) and Dave Crowe (81.49). Dave caught me up with just under a mile to go so I'm sure he let me come in in front of him. Either that or he did not want to see my dip! Next 2 home was Wayne Babynec (84.48) running with his daughter Laura (84.57) who had another good run. Marjorie Leigh also had good run clocking 86.58. Then came Mark Crowley with 89.56 who edged out Barry Allman with 90.29. Michelle Fuller clocked 95.05 with Catherine Hodgetts completing the line up in 99.20. The last CLGP race of 2011 is next Sunday at our race at Gin Pit. Hope to see you all there.

Three Shires 13 miles / 4000 feet ascent by Marcus Taylor

Three Shires 13 miles / 4000 feet ascent

 

This race takes place from Little langdale a small village with (perhaps) one cottage and a local pub. Paul Jackson introduced this event to have an experience running a longer Lakeland Fell race. It covers 13 miles along an unmarked course with some testing elations on hills and changing landscape. It was wet race as we took shelter in a tent before a delayed start at 11.30 am, by which time Simon Ford and I had already had a 30 minute walk with bags from a mined quarry. It was quite a spectacular site 'Hodge Close Quarry' with steeped slate sides, water pool and tunnels for divers to pass through ... nervously I had looked over the edge! To start with the 300 plus quality athletes headed on to Wetherlam Hill 762 ft. Isaline Hughes from Burnden had advised me to expect a tough early climb. Most of the runners near my side were strong walkers and I struggled to keep this pace. Fell running is a technical sport. You could be a strong walker but need to learn navigation and the ground. Similarly you could be a strong runner but need to learn navigation and find a style to adapt to the conditions on the ground.   

 

After the climb up Wetherlam the ground was gentler and we headed on to Swirl How. The sun was shinning and I was above the cloud. I was running for a while and had my first tumble slipping on wet grass coming downhill. I had previously approached Swirl How  but not from this side - at Duddon. This was still a test but there is a path in places on the gully to follow and the rocks and stones helped with my grip. Leaving Swirl How runners head to Three Shires Stone across the Wrynose Pass. This offered an opportunity to get a 'shift on' and some runners were trading places on the moor. I had a very slow start but was happy to see my path ahead and check this against the route map. I've enjoyed learning how to match the paths on the ground to the markings on the map (you often follow everyone else as the big races are well attended). But it is essential to have a basic understanding should you fall back through tiredness and need to make choices on the course at a longer race. I will practice myself over the Autumn and Winter months and if people need some advice, please ask! The Fell Runners association also has a brilliant training course in map work twice yearly.    

 

The continue to a Cheque point at Pike of Blisco was stunning running up a grassy ridge and on to some rocky scree and big rocks to scramble over using arms and legs. Lingmoor Fell is the final checkpoint. The approach to the fell was good on unmarked well trodden grass (as everyone is ahead) makes it slippy yet fun.Talking to runners comparing how many bumps and falls.. etc. also suggestion that some will be finished having a beer, tea or coffee. It was shocking how many times I fell in this race. Had a big fall again off both feet onto my back. But this did not dampen my spirits, I had completed a Lakeland Classic in great company. I have been mocked about talking and running! It works for some and these are my friends.

 

Great to see Simon Ford back on the fells. Simon had done a recce over two weekends to learn the route - Thanks for the route map. Izzy and Martin of Burnden have knowledge of race and passed on valuable advice before the race. 

 

38th Simon Ford  - 2.23

79th Martin Pollitt - 2.35

148th Isaline Hughes 2.56

231st Marcus Taylor 3.16

Hi A & T members

We had a fantastic day today at the Fleetwood Tri. Great turn out from the club in our nice new Tri hoodies!

Does anyone fancy one more open water tri before we hang our wetsuits up for the long winter ahead? I’ve just entered for this next Sunday. It would be great if a few more club members came along as well?

http://www.adventure-challenge-solutions.co.uk/news-and-events/events/capernwray-clearwater-autumn-triathlon/

Helen Minshall

Ron Hill 5k by Jane Eccleston

As the autumn nights are drawing in, five A&T runners decided to run the last mid-week 5K race of the season - Ron Hill's 73rd Birthday 5K race.

The race took place north of Rochdale, infact it was right near Hollingworth Lake.  The start was at quite early at 6.45.  After picking Emma up at 4.30pm I felt two hours was more than enough time to make the 36 mile journey.

We were making good time just having to nip across Manchester and pick Lewis up from work.  Ohhh how wrong could I be.  After picking Lewis up, it took us two hours and ten minutes to get to Rochdale!!!!  Along the route there were frantic calls to Mark and Barry to get us registered as we were still looking for the venue at 6.40pm, we ended up almost on two wheels entering the village coming to a stop at the local Co-op.  Lewis jumped out of the car, ran across the road in to the local pub that was dubbling up as a registration centre to pick up our numbers, while I negotiated some 200 runners trying to get my car parked up.  Lewis ran 200 yards to the car park to give us our numbers and that was about it for a warm up!

At 6.43 we were on the start line frantically tring to pin our numbers on to our shirts!!! Before we knew it start gun had fired and we were off.  needless to say, I saw Lewis at the front of the pack fading quickly into a bler, Mark was quickly of the start line with Barry leaving Emma and me.  The course was tough with the first mile all up hill, followed by quite a steep downhill.  The coures eventually evened out at the half way point.  The latter part of the race was along Hollingworth Lake just as the light was starting to fade.

All five of us had a great night, sad that this is the last mid-week race for the season, but we all have a great night and lots of laughs.

Well done to Lewis who took 3rd place only being beaten by one second and PB's for both Emma and Me.

Ron Hill 5k

3	246	Lewis Eccleston	M	Astley & Tyldesley R.R.	00:16:20
74	213	Mark Lysycia	M50	Astley & Tyldesley R.R.	00:20:54
174	245	Jane Eccleston	F40	Astley & Tyldesley R.R.	00:28:37
177	247	Emma Higgins	F	Astley & Tyldesley R.R.	00:28:54

Gin Pit 5

All finishers of the Gin Pit 5 will receive one of the above More Mile shoe bags .. ideal for your muddy trainers or x-country spikes ..

Swinton 10

Due to Newbrook Road, Atherton being closed it would make more sense to go on the East Lancs.

The race starts at 9.30am so i suggest the convoy would be better leaving from the Gin Pit at 8.15-8.30am but most runners are likely to go direct to Swinton.

Wednesday 21/09 Session Times - 4 x 1400's

Very wet
4 x 1400's
Gin Pit Loop

In no particular order..

Gary S 5.09 / 5.05 / 5.05 / 5.07
Terry H 5.39 / 5.46 / 5.57 / 5.54
Simon 4.58 / 4.50 / 4.44 / 4.48
Alex 4.53 / 4.47 / 4.41 / 4.55
Arnold 5.24 / 5.23 / 5.23 / 5.32
Neil C 5.05 / 5.01 / 5.02 / 5.25
John L 5.23 / 5.20 / 5.20 / 5.17
Mark Crow 6.16 / 6.45 / 6.45 / 6.48
Mark Ric 5.09 / 5.05 / 5.04 / 5.05
Suzanne 6.28 / 6.29 / 6.29 / 6.23
Clare 8.18 / 8.35 / 8.52 / 8.40
Kim 6.25 / 7.00 / 7.03 / 7.03 (last 3 approx)
Paul Bas 5.58 / 6.00 / 6.10 / 6.24
Michaela 6.23 / 6.30 / 6.33 / 6.28
Carole 6.17 / 6.17 / 6.20 / 6.10
Nasser 6.08 / 6.03 / 6.05 / 6.05
Rufus 5.05 / 5.01 / 5.02 / 5.45
Dale 5.23 / 5.20 / 5.20 / 5.29
Josie 5.38 / 5.25 / 5.33 / 5.34

Next week will be 1/2 trails / 1/2 road but still meeting at Gin Pit at 6.15pm

Message from Steve Doxey of Swinton RC

Just to remind everyone it is the Swinton 10mile race this coming Sunday.

In the past we have recommended that runners should not wear Ipods or MP3 players during the race. Due to an accident at the beginning of the year, a runner from Swinton, who had been to the club a few times got knocked down and killed on the East Lancs Road, whilst wearing a MP3 player. This brought home to us the fact that when out on the roads, everyone should be aware of what is going on around them, and if necessary be able to respond to marshals instructions.

Therefore for safety reasons, we will not be permitting the use of Ipods or MP3 players during the race. Anyone who is caught wearing an Ipod or MP3 player will have their name removed from the results.

I have also emailed this to other club secretaries as well, but if you could put it on the website I would be grateful.

Best Regards

Steve

Gin Pit 5

Online & postal entries are still being taken for the race but they do close in 7 days so if you have not already entered you better get your skates on and do it!

Entries will be taken on the day at the extra levy unless you are a CLGP runner.

Each finisher will get a start fitness shoe bag which are ideal for carrying your trainers to races or your muddy x-country spikes during the season .. well worth the entry fee in itself.

We still need a few volunteers ... a couple of course marshals, a timekeeper and we could do with someone cleaning the course the day before if you are free to help out.

As ever it should be a great race so lets all show our support by racing and help generate funds for the club.

Gary S
Race Organiser
stevensgary@hotmail.com

Calling our triathletes!

For a limited time only i can get hold of the following cheap .. this is because i am about to place a large order for Gin Pit 5 prizes with the supplier so i have got us a decent deal....

Elastic Laces £2.00 per pair
Tri Belts £3.00 each

This is a one off price that will not be repeated .. i am ordering later in the week so will need to know by Thursday 22nd.

Gary
stevensgary@hotmail.com

Halloween Party - feedback needed please!

Before we start organising this year's Halloween Spooktacular we'd really appreciate some feedback on who thinks they would attend. We are concerned about numbers and there's no point organising if people aren't interested although club is more than happy to organise if people fancy it!
For those of you that don't know, the Halloween Spooktacular is an annual event, taking place this year on Sat 29th Oct at GinPit. Family and friends are welcome and fancy dress is encouraged! There will be a fancy dress parade and games for the kids earlier in the evening and then disco, games and pasties for the adults later.
Do you think you might like to come?
PLEASE click on the poll on the right and let us know.
Thanks

Tuesday Training Routes

These are tonights training routes - sorry for the delay

From the Train Station 6.30pm prompt

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=4601317 - Central, Douglas St, Tyldesley Rd, Hamilton St, Liscard St, Gloucester St, Central - 3.19 miles

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=3587875 – Dougie, Tyldesley 1 way, Squires Lane, past Fred Longworth, Hamilton St, Liscard St, Gloucester and back to central – 5.2 miles

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2599075 - Down Dougie- other end of Tyldesley one way system to Hough Lane – on to Manchester Rd, Turn right onto Princess’s Avenue and onto Astley Street, Back along Tyldesley Road, Down Millers (if you fancy) then Hamilton Street, Leigh Road, Mealhouse lane to the station – 7.8 miles

Wednesday Training

This Wednesday will be the final session of the year on the trails due to the dark nights.  Shaun wants to start the session a bit earlier just to make sure we get the full session in before it goes dark so would like everyone to try and arrive at 6.15pm and start the warm up around 6.25pm

The session is 4 x 1400's

Great North Run by Mike Geoghegan

Temporarily joining a new club for the weekend, Team Joseph Holt's (yes, the 
brewery) 4 of us set off on sat afternoon to the north east to support The 
Christie in their relentless fight against cancer.
The journey started well having decided to take the more scenic M6 route rather 
than the M62 which we later learned was gridlocked for 2 hours due to an accident.

Arriving at base camp we dropped off the bags and headed to the bar for some 
light refreshments. A hearty fish & chips meal followed by round after round of 
strongbow ensured we were in a relaxed mood for the next days task. Not the most 
ideal of preparations, particularly for an athlete (EA no. 3006610) such as 
myself, but we had taken comfort from the fact that the pre race manual did say 
not to change your normal routine!

Sunday morning started nice and early and we headed for the start taking our 
position a good hour before the race. Following some emotional moments we set 
off with the sun beating down. The first few miles passed reasonably quickly and 
I suddenly realised I had attracted my own personal stalker (unfortunately male) 
who seeing my ATRR top and Garmin watch assumed I was a runner who knew what he
was doing and used me as his pacemaker. He made himself known after 5 miles and 
we continued for the next 8 miles or so helping each other over a quite hilly course to beat our target 
time of under 2 hrs. At 9 miles the heavens opened, a welcome relief for me, and 
for the next 2.5 miles we got thoroughly soaked. Buoyed on by the atmosphere set 
by an enthusiastic crowd, the coast and finishing line loomed into view and it 
was a very satisfied ATRR who crossed the line in 1.54.50.

All in all, a very tiring run and but memorable weekend. 
Happy days!

Swinton 10 & Gin Pit 5

Calling all Vet and Lady runners.

 

The next 2 Sundays see the penultimate and final races of the CLGP season at Swinton and Gin Pit. As things stand at the moment we are leading both the Veterans and Ladies categories.

 

It doesn't need me to remind you (but I will anyway) that the more of our top Vet and Lady runners we can get out in these races, the better chance we have of bring home the silverware.

 

Please do all you can to get yourself to these races over the next 2 weekend. If you need any more information please let me know.

 

See you there and Cheers

 

Garry

English Half Marathon, Warrington‏ by Paul Basnett

On Sunday morning 4 A&T members made their way to Warrington for the English half marathon. Considering the weather during the previous 24 hours it was quite a pleasant morning for running, dry with a bit of a chill in the air. After picking up my chip and number I spotted the others being Steve Coleman, Dan and Mike Reason. I could see that they were lining up somewhere close to the front but I know my place so I said I'd better get closer to the back.

At just after 9 the race was started out of Victoria Park and onto roads closed specifically for the event. I had consciously decided to run within myself at the start so as not to tire to early. However at about 3 miles my legs were feeling really heavy and my breathing not too great. I thought I'm better than this but refrained from throwing my tools away out of frustration and sobbing on the floor but it was a bit disconcerting as I had another 10 miles to go! I continued on and at about 4 miles my legs started to feel a lot better and my breathing was back under control. Turns out the first 6 miles is pretty much uphill with first 3.5 mile being the toughest section but all this must have sneaked up on me!

At about 6 miles the descent back to Victoria Park mostly upon trails was on, which made the run a little more pleasant. Also a few pockets of spectators cheering you on along the way helped. Before I knew it I was climbing the last hill to the bridge over the ship canal which was about 1 mile to go. My legs were grumbling and I felt like I was hardly moving but I was still passing runners and besides there was no way I was going to walk. At the top of the bridge I glanced at my Garmin and thought I maybe on for PB so decided to run flat out for the last mile. I mean this is only like doing that last effort on one of Shauns Wednesday sessions when your legs are already like jelly, right? With about 400m to go I saw Dan and Mike who shouted words of encouragement, cheers guys. I crossed the line 16 seconds outside my PB but was pleased with my effort considering how I felt at 3 miles.

A total of 1339 competitors completed the race and the winner was Daniel Cliffe of Liverpool Harriers and AC in a time of 1.09.44. First back for A&T was Steve Coleman with a time of 1.30.41 taking 76th place. Next home was Mike Reason in 112th place with 1.33.10 who was closely followed by his brother Dan with 1.35.17 and 143rd. I, with some catching up to do, finished in 431st with 1.47.33.

For our troubles we recieved a technical tshirt, medal and goody bag. I maybe back next year for another go at the sneaky hills but I would not recommend it for anyone looking to obtain a PB.

Message from Mark Lysycia

Littleborough 5k,Thursday 22nd September 6.45pm ,free food,free mug,great course,great atmosphere,plenty of entries,prizes

Andems Runners assisted by Rochdale Harriers present
Ron Hill's 73rdt Birthday 5K Road Race.
6.45pm Thursday 22nd September 2011 from the Falcon Inn,
Church St, Littleborough. (A58 Halifax Rd)
ALL proceeds to worthy causes. Please park sensibly away from course!!!
Park at Police/Health Centre Car Parks!!
Entry Fee £5.00 to Club Runners £7.00 to non affiliated Entry Limit 400
Entries & Cheques payable Andems Runners RHBR to Andy O'Sullivan MBE, 40
Crowshaw Drive, Rochdale OL12 OSR. Tel Enqs (01706) 750620 or
info@andemsrunners.co.uk Entries on Night up to 6.30pm taken at £2.00
extra!!!!!
RRC measured course, Cert No 96/45 Commemorative Memento to ALL Finishers.
There will be extensive Prize List in all categories. Well Marshalled.
First Aid. Free Refreshments. Orange Juice
Please enter early to avoid disappointment

Wetherby 10k by Steve Coleman

On Sunday I did the Yorkshire Wetherby 10k. A mix of trails and road. Not flat and the wind did not help. Started and finnished in the local race course at 2 PM. Came in at 41.09. 990 entered the race so a quite large one and 941 finnished. Nice large mug at the end but no teabags to go with it.

Sunday Run by Michaela Shaw

Me and Carol are meeting at the Gin Pit on Sunday 18th September at 1.30pm.  We are doing a steady 8-10 mile run.  Everyone is welcome to join us.
 

Tuesday Training

Reminder that tonight we are meeting at Atherton Train Station not Beefold.

The routes are as follows

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=3587853 Central, Gloucester St, Masons, Lovers Lane, Hamilton St, High St and back to central – 3.88 miles

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=4458503 - 

Central,Gloucester St, Bag Lane, North Rd to bridge and back, turn right onto industrial estate, Wigan Rd, Lovers Lane, Leigh Rd, Hamilton St, Central - 5.37 miles

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=4458479 - Central,Gloucester St, Bag Lane, North Rd, Park Rd, Cricketers Way, Church St, A6, Newbrook Rd, Central- 8.53miles

Club Merchandise by Mark Lysycia

As of this Wednesday (14th) , I will try to have with me on training sessions and races   at least one item of each size  of club kit,providing we have it in stock. I will only have one of each so if you think you need something,please ring,text,e-mail or  facebook me,preferably before I  leave for work.

 

I plan to have the following.

 

Jackets  2 types but a  limited stock left.

 

Vests.

 

Short sleeve tee shirts men's/Ladies

 

Long sleeve tops, inc some anniversary tops  and  ladies thermal type.

 

New vests are on order so if you need one please send me a  confirmation.

 

As the new  A+T tri top hoodies seem to be very popular with a lot of the tri athletes, we could get the same for the runners minus the tri logo.

 

Again,if you feel you would like one, please let me know as soon as possible. If we get enough interest,the club can order some in.

 

If anyone has any suggestions/ ideas regarding club merchandise,feel free to drop me an e-mail.

 

marklysycia@yahoo.co.uk

 

Thanks

 

Mark

Three Shires Fell Race- Sat 17 September 11 by Paul Jackson

This Saturday, the toughest fell race in this years Club/Grand Prix Champs will take place in the Lake District. It is the 13mile/4000' ascent Lakeland classic, the Three Shires.

Obviously the race is run over very tough terrain and conditions could be pretty rough so only runners with appropriate navigational and mountaincraft skills should consider entering. Full safety kit is mandatory.

The venue is the Three Shires Inn, Little Langdale, Ambleside.

The race starts at 11.00 and entry is £7.00 on the day.

Pennington Flash 5 mile trail race 11/11/11 – by Mark Riches

Seven A&T runners turned up at Leigh Sports Village on a dry but windy day (numbers were down due to several A&T runners racing elsewhere)

After we collected our numbers we set off on our usual group warm-up, which when Shaun is there involves 4 x 20 seconds hard / 10 seconds easy at the end, which certainly gets you ready to race!

After the customary A&T handshakes, we set off with 80 others to tackle this tough 1 lap course around the Flash. As we left the track Shaun was running with one of the young lads from Leigh Harriers (Liam) & yours truly (Mark Riches) was running with a couple of guys from Middleton

We ran around the parameter of the golf club & I managed to break away from the Middleton guys & set off after Shaun & Liam. We joined the canal towpath & I was closing in on my prey, when I took a tumble after twisting my angle on a patch of uneven ground. The Middleton lads sped past me (all is fair in love & war!)

I eventually managed to” run it off” & went past the Middleton runners on the 2^nd steep climb only to be caught by Allister from Leigh who won the GP marathon a couple of weeks ago. I ran with him for the next mile & we passed Liam & set off after Shaun

We didn’t catch Shaun who finished 4^th (& 1^st M50) in a time of 30:19; I was next A&T finisher 6^th overall in 30:34 (& 1^st M45) 4 seconds behind Allister. Next A&T finisher was John Lee with a fantastic time of 33:19 followed by Terry Hughes (35:37) & Ian Hamilton (37:27 & 1^st M60) despite “several pints” last night

Our 2 A&T ladies both ran well Bev Tickle (46:42) & Helen Minshall (47:44)

We had a quick group warm down & then I went home so I missed the presentation, but I did really well winning £20 worth of Sweatshop vouchers & Shaun who beat me got a bottle of rose wine! But when I spoke to Brenda she told me the story but said I had won £20 & Joanne (wife) was listening so it was off to the pub for tea my treat then when I got home the vouchers were on the doormat – oh well you can never have enough trainers!

Farmers Arms 10k by Paul Basnett

On a deceptively chilly Sunday morning 5 A&T members made their way upto the Parbold area for the Farmers Arms 10k. This was billed on the race flyer as a fast course which to me means pretty flat. The course was far from flat and had more peaks and troughs than the average white knuckle ride. I think what they meant by fast was for the cars praticing their rally driving skills during our warm up! Anyway at 10.30 the race was off and the course was actually thankfully pretty free of traffic. Toward the end of the race when starting to climb one of the many the hills, some of which you could not see the peak as the course turned a bend, I was praying it would end just around the corner. In a few cases my prayers were answered but then again for every climb there was a downhill. The race was completed by 112 competitors and at the prize giving the organisers asked whether someone had given up or was still racing as there was 113 entrants. A search party had been sent out but no sign of the missing person. First back for A&T and picking up the 3rd place prize in the process was Lewis Eccleston with 36.38. I'm not sure his Mum Jane was more pleased with his placing or the fact that she got his prize which was a bottle of wine. I'll leave you to decide that one. Next home was the ever consistent Carole Baines clocking a pretty good time for the course with 46.16, taking 44th place and the FV45 prize. I came in next, trying to make sure the woman behind me wasn't going to beat me by using my fast finish, clocking 47.52 and taking 56th position. Michaela Shaw who is still making her return from injury came in 68th with 50.22. Completing the line up was Garry Baines running in his first 10k since making his come back taking 77th place with 52.49. Garry was disappointed with his time but it was not an easy course so I'm sure he'll be posting more satistying times in the near future. For our troubles we all received a medal and I couldn't resist a pint of guinness. The course was certainly not a PB course but it was well organised and marshalled. I maybe back next year if I want to do a bit of hill training.

Tatton Park Sprint Tri by Clare Unsworth

5am Saturday saw myself, Alix, Helen and Dale dragging ourselves out of bed (not the same bed mind!) and into our new hoodies and making our way to Tatton Park to part in Tatton Park Sprint Triathlon
This was the first open water triathlon for me, Dale and Helen and Alix's first tri on her brand new road bike with cleats so we were all a bit nervous to say the least. We went off in different waves, Helen off first at 8.45am due to accidentally entering herself in the same wave as the 'elite women swimmers' but actually holding her own and exiting the water mid way within that wave. Dale was off next, followed by Alix and then me.

The swim was a serious battle through weeds thick enough to not only prevent front crawl but at time making breast stroke virtually impossible too, I know that a couple of us were forced to adopt a wierd doggy paddle to get over certain patches. Other than that, the course was great! Gorgeous setting, fast, flat bike course (with usual wind in your face we're now all getting very used to!) and a cross country style run through the woods and parkland of Tatton. Lots of spectators along the way and big thanks to Colin, Jon Hyde, Alex, Mike Reason and Kelly Ann from A&T who came along to support. I'm told Alex had to be practically held back from spontaneously joining in!

There were the usual incidents that are becoming common place in these tris...Helen forgot to put her number on in transition and was made to run back for it, Alix in her new cleats managed to jump on her bike after the swim but then charged full on into a metal barrier taking out herself, bike and the barrier itself! Think she was more upset about damage to her brand new baby Bianchi than the huge bruises she is now sporting! Dale's race went smoothly although he ended up coming home a bit lighter having lost both his goggles and his shoes!?!

Results were: 
Dale - 1.18 (56th overall out of 897 competitors!) A BRILLIANT  and very impressive result for Dale - well done!
Helen - 1.40 (7th in 40+ female cat) Looks like the 6wk holiday training really paid off
Clare - 1.46
Alix - 1.47 (it's gonna be neck and neck at Fleetwood for me and Alix especially if there are no barriers for her to crash into!)

A very enjoyable day and a real experience for all of us!

Fleetwood Tri at the end of Sept sees all 12 Tri Club members battling it out! If anyone fancies a morning in Fleetwood we'd love the support!

Sunday Runs

If you didn't already know the club meets up on Sunday's from the Gin Pit at 9.30am prompt for a longer 'steady' more relaxed run which is normally around 8.30 pace depending who turns up.

There will be a run tomorrow (11th) and every Sunday unless it clashes with a club race.

NW Road relays‏

The NW Road relays will be held next Saturday (17th September) at Sefton Park, Liverpool. The ladies race starts at 1.30pm and the Men's at 2.15 pm.

We have entered one Ladies and one Men's team.

The members selected are as follows:-

Ladies

Maria Lowe

Jean Mann

Carole Baines

Men

Colin Rigby

Alex Foster

Shaun Moran

Alan Hilton

1st reserve: Mark Riches

Details of departure times, meeting points will be forwarded during the course of next week.

If anyone has any questions please let me know.

Cheers

Garry

Gin Pit 5 Course Map

Click to enlarge

X - Country 2011/12 – by Mark Riches

Its official summers over (did it actually start?) & the dark nights are just around the corner. But the good news is that it nearly time to spend most Saturdays getting covered in mud!

Details of this year’s Club Champs can be found in the x-country section of the Blog along with details of SEL races, which will not form part of the Club Champs

If you raced on the country last year I will provisionally enter you again this year. If not, & you want to race in either the Red Rose or Mid Lancs leagues, please sent me an email mark.riches@talk21.com with your name & date of birth as soon as possible

As previously advised we will also be having a second (independent) Club Champs based on 3 races on the Gin Pit x-country course, which was used for the first time last year – dates tba

Finally, following discussion at the meeting on Sunday, I intend to do the presentation for last season at the next meeting 6 November 2011 so please can 2009/10 winners listed below, please let me have the shields back as soon as possible?

• Simon Ford
• Sue Hopkins
• Brenda Wane

Races (all Saturdays)

Date	League	Venue
08/10/11	Red Rose	Leigh Sports Village
22/10/11	Red Rose	Hyndburn
29/10/11	Mid Lancs	Townley Park, Burnley
12/11/11	Red Rose	Leverhulme Park, Bolton
26/11/11	Mid Lancs	Sefton Park, Liverpool
03/12/11	Red Rose	Marl Pits, Rossendale
10/12/11	Mid Lancs	Astley Park, Chorley
14/01/12	Mid Lancs	Hyndburn
11/02/12	Mid Lancs	Thorncliffe, Barrow
03/03/12	Mid Lancs	Worden Park, Leyland

Start Times

Red Rose - women 1:35 pm men 2:15 pm

Mid Lancs - women 2:00 pm men 2:30 pm

Websites

Red Rose www.redrosecrosscountry.co.uk

Mid Lancs www.midlancs.org.uk

Cost

Red Rose £4.00 for all four races payable to Mark Riches when you complete your first Red Rose race

Mid Lancs no cost to individuals

Championship Categories

Under 35 women / Under 40 men / 35 & over women /40 & over men

The UK athletics rule regarding age groups & ruling date 31 August (midnight)/1 September to apply

Scoring

In all championship age categories 1^st place 30 points, 2^nd place 28 points, 3^rd place 27 points etc

Scoring is based on BEST 7 races from 10. Runners must complete at least 7 races to qualify for prizes.

Championship Awards

Perpetual trophies will be awarded to first man and woman in each age category

Championship trophies to first 3 men and women in each age category

Additional award will be presented to runners who complete all 10 races

New for 2011

Earphones will NOT be allowed in any Red Rose races.

Contact

Mark Riches

(m) 07508 213207

Email: mark.riches@talk21.com

2011 Club Rankings

The latest club rankings have now been updated on the below link, any problems or times missing please contact Mark Riches who will correct them.

http://www.astleyrunners.co.uk/documents/blog_docs/2011Clubrankingsv2.xls

A&T Boozy Do - Fri 30th Sept

A&T Boozy Do - Fri 30th Sept

An A & T social night, drinks and laughs round Atherton! Come along for the whole night or just for an hour!
Everyone welcome, bring friends if you want! Spread the word!

Meeting at Atherton Arms at 7.30pm

Gin Pit Flyers

I know there are a few races over the weekend and no doubt a lot of you are racing.  Could you do me a favour and print off some Gin Pit flyers to take to the race to drum up interest in the race.

Download form here @ http://www.ukresults.net/forms/111002ginpit.pdf

Message from Vanessa Thomson

Our group will be meeting at 6pm for a long steady run. Route n distance not decided yet. Will be 8.40/9mmp.

The other groups still meet at 6.30pm as usual. 

Road Closure at Newbrook Road for 12 weeks

For anyone who is not aware Newbrook Road is going to close for 12 weeks from Monday 12th September so if you are coming to Tuesday/ Thursday training you will not be able to get through from the Bolton side.

I am not sure if there will be a walk way at the closure point for pedestrians however i live in that area and know a solution.

If you turn right down Broadway  and then bear left at the bottom towards the dead end (you will see a farm).  You can park your car in that area and you will see a little walk through to Upton Road (its like a ramp with railings).  Once you are on Upton Road  you can walk straight up the road to the train station.

I guess its no longer than a 5 minute walk from the end of Broadway to the Train Station.

This will be much quicker than following the diversion around Westhoughton.

If anyone is interested i can discuss in more detail.

Gary Stevens

For your diary the next meeting is now booked for Sunday 6th November 8pm.

Tuesday/Thursday Training by Garry Baines

Hi All

In view of the dreadful weather and the imminent dark nights, tonight's training session on the trails will be the last for this year.

From next week, we'll be meeting at Atherton Station on both Tuesday & Thursday from 6.15pm for a 6.30 get-away.

We'll revert to the trails next Spring.

If anyone's down tonight, please pass on the message.

Thanks

Garry

hello all
I've got a hand held water bottle left at track tonight, anyone know who's it is?

 Clare Unsworth

claroj@hotmail.com

Meeting Minutes - September 4th by Gary Stevens

Committee - GB / MR / MC / GS

Apologies - ML

Gill Pimblott 5k

The club presented the Pimblott family with a cheque for £500.00 which came from the Gill Pimblott 5k race plus the raffle.  The money will be given to the oncology department at Wigan Hospital

The future of the race has been discussed at committee level.  The feeling amongst the committee is we could raise similar amounts or better doing a much lower key race (without permits / st. johns etc) and charge £5.00 and invite club members and friends of A&T (Burnden / Swinton).  

Due to park runs and the general down turn in race numbers we feel a 5k is no longer a viable option.

If anyone has any better idea's  inform a committee member.

Performances of the Month

Nominations

Alex Foster - Ironman

Mark Ruscoe - Lakeland 100

Marcus Taylor - Lakeland 50

Lyndsey Carter - Lakeland 50

Mark Riches - Elswick 10

Laura Babynec - Leigh 10k

Carole Baines - Lancaster 5k

Lewis Eccleston - Salford 10k

Alan Hilton - Salford 10k

Paul Basnett - Salford 10k

Garry Baines (Road Captain) decided the Road Performance on the month was Paul Basnett for his 10k PB and 43rd race of 2011!

Road Race News

There will a CLGP presentation held by Wigan Phoenix - keep posted for more details

Runners especially ladies and vets are encouraged to do the final 2 races of the CLGP (Swinton 10 & Gin Pit 5) as both are currently leading the league.

Gin Pit 5

Race Organizer Gary Stevens is looking for volunteers to help out with the race on Sunday 2nd October.  If you are racing and can still help out please let us know.

Family and friends can also help out.

All vacancies are on the blog

http://astleyrunners.blogspot.com/2011/08/gin-pit-5-sunday-2nd-october-volunteers.html

X-Country

Cross Country season starts on Saturday 8th October - Mark Riches (Captain) will blog more details in the next few days of how to sign up and the costs involved.

Social Events

Halloween Spooktacular Saturday 29th October & Xmas Do Saturday 17th December - both events are free of charge to members - keep posted to the blog

British Triathlon

The club are now affiliated to British Triathlon.  Members who want to do triathlon related events can save £11.00 on a personal affiliation to British Triathlon which gives them big discounts in races.

The club are also looking for a 'Tri Captain' who can be point of contact / arrange sessions / race reports etc ... if you are interested see a committee member

AOB

The club are looking for volunteers to come forward for 3 vacant roles .. Road Captain (committee), Fell Captain (non-committee) and Social Events (non committee)

If you are interested or want to know more about the roles please contact a committee member

Next meeting - Sunday 6th November.

Testing Testing 123

Salford 10k by Paul Basnett

On a bright Sunday morning 5 A&T members made the short journey to Salford quays for the City Of Salford 10k. Some people do secret training but I entered this as a secret race in an attempt to get the elusive 10k PB. There is no getting away from A&T members and doing secret races but I enjoyed the company nevertheless. The race start was delayed a few minutes whilst the new bridge was put in place as a boat had just gone through. So at about 10 minutes later than the schduled time the race was off. I didn't really have race plan but it quickly turned into I will start off at a hot pace, well for me, and see how it goes. Vanessa had decided to use me as a pacer as I usually don't set off too hot, sorry V! Then again at the 2k marker I could still hear Vanessa breathing heavily down my neck and was tempted to turn round to tell her to stop as it was turning me on, but then thought better of it as running and laughing don't make the best combination. Meanwhile up front was the A&T big guns in the form of Lewis Eccleston, Shaun Moran and Alan Hilton. All 3 looking more comfortable then I was feeling as I passed them approaching the 6k mark as they were approaching 8k. Lewis had another brilliant run and finished the race with 5th place and a PB of 35.25. Shaun Moran was in next and taking 10th place and 1st V50 with 36.09. The ever improving Alan Hilton came next. Apparently a member of certain Manchester running club, cough, had said that he was looking good pre-race but Alan wasn't arsing around to run in 16th place and taking 1st V40 with a PB of 36.47. When collecting his V40 prize the major, who was awarding prizes, said that he didn't look like a vet. Two complements in one morning for Alan but a pity for him they were both from the wrong sex! I was next home and getting that elusive 10k PB to get the set for 2011 with 46.51. Completing the line up was Vanessa Thomson with 49.26. The first 10 male competitors claimed prizes plus 1st vet for each category so Lewis, Shaun and Alan all claimed prizes. They should have also claimed the team prize but apparently they had to submit the team before the race. After disputing this they were promised if they were up for a prize then something would be in post. Is that like your cheque is in the post? We'll see! For us mere mortals we just got a tshirt and goody bag full or advertisements. All in all though it was a very well organised race and the course was flat and very runable and definitely one I would recommend for your racing diary next year.