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| Welcome to the Croft Ambrey Running Club Newsletter. |
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Summer Off-road series - Race 3 - Westhope, July 21st The going was surprisimgly firm after all the recent rain, but this was a tough course involving two loops of the top orchard and one around the bottom. We had a very good turnout, with Sue, Suzanne and Nicky all producing good performances which should ensure we hold on to first team place, and could also improve our B and C standings. In Mike's absence the full results will be a little slower coming out, and in my absence, they won't appear here for a couple of weeks anyway. Croft Woods handicap - July 13th Another record turnout for the summer's first trip to Croft Woods in the handicap series illustrates the current healthy state of the club and the enthusiasm of its members. Heavy rain during the day, after a lengthy spell of dry weather, created tricky underfoot conditions for the runners but some excellent times were recorded as they raced down the finishing straight emerging from the evening mist like extras in a horror film. Simon is enjoying a rich vein of form since entering the veteran ranks and he overtook 24 runners after starting at the back of the grid and finished in style well clear of the field. Tom appears to be regaining some fitness with a strong 2nd. place and Dave the Younger just held off the ever-improving Gavin as they sprinted for the line. Gavin's time takes him into the Top 10 of all-time performances over the course. There were a number of P.B. recordings and some excellent debuts, notably from Sue who registered the 3rd fastest ever female time and entered the Top 10 at no. 3 as well as setting a female vet. 45 record. Mark's first venture round the course saw him recording an excellent run which places him equal 13th on the all-time listings with a time that was just 45 secs. away from the V45 record. Mick and Peter H. reappeared after lengthy spells of truancy with Peter just getting back into running and Mick showing promising signs of improvement. The Chairman's award for the most worthy performance of the evening was given to our remarkable highly esteemed President who was back in action as the oldest competitor to complete the course just 9 days after he celebrated his 70th birthday by competing successfully in a Triathlon. Long may he run. 2 races to go in the 2010 series with the next scheduled for Tuesday 10th. August
Soapbox Spectacular - July 11th Croft again provided the winner for the Soapbox race, this time it was Stacey, who kept his lead over Simon (32.18) through to the end, finishing in 31.54. 34 runners, and Catherine sweeping up, completed the course, but we failed to attract more than a handful of runners from beyond Croft and Ludlow. Suzanne ran her first competitive race for Croft for nearly a year, and finished 2nd lady (and 1st JF, but only just ahead of 14yr old Eilish Gilbert) and Nicky, who like Tom and Gary had run for hours over Welsh mountains the day before, was 3rd lady (and 1st FV50). Gary won the MV55 prize, with Tom receiving the MV60. Bryan ran a fine race to be 1st MV70 (for which we had neglected to provide an award!) The ladies (Suzanne, Nicky and Rachel) won the team prize, a fraction ahead of Ludlow, as did the men (Stacey, Simon and Gary). Full results on Results page.
Hereford Triathlon - July 4th Neil and Bryan, on his 70th birthday, both competed: Neil finishing in the top half of the field in 80th place in 1hr 5mins 3 secs, while Bryan did well to finish just 12 minutes later, 153rd out of a field of 176 finishers. Severn Loop 5K - June 27th Mark and Sue ran this race in Shrewsbury, Sue being first lady (19.40) by 10 seconds, and obviously 1st FV45 too. Really well done! Mark finished a very creditable 19th (out of 104) in 18.44. Summer Off-road League - Aconbury - June 30th A tough course on a warm evening in Aconbury woods, with numerous uphill stretches until about 2/3 of the way, then fast downhill to the final climb to the finish. Croft were well represented with 7 finishers in the first 24: Stacey was a little disappointed with his 6th place (33.23) but it was still a fine result. Simon was close behind in 7th (34.15) after a triathlon 3 days before. Dave A had another great race (11th, 35.32), followed by Gavin (15th, 36.12), Neil P (17th, 36.25) and Mark (18th, 36.43). Mick, who still hasn't served his time, was non-counting 24th (first over 50, though beaten by Geoff Kay - MV55) in 37.40. Sue (31st) flew round in 38.49, just a minute behind Clara Evans, and completed our victorious A team. Martin hung in to finish 37th (39.54) sprinting ahead of Guy (42nd, 40.20). Frank ran well to come home in 53rd (top half of the field), in 41.47, with Daren 59th (42.36) and Neil T 62nd (42.55), making a last minute decision to run 'because there was no football'. Nidky (sic) (68th, 43.40) completed the B team (5th overall), finishing just ahead of Tom (70th, 43.55). Liza, again well into the top half of the women's field (19th out of 46), crossed the line in 46.17, and Catherine created a D team by completing the course in 54.11. Full results on Results page. Multi-events - Sunday June 27th There was little surprise about the men's winner - Patrick, beaten only in the 1500m, by young Dave and by Dan in the javelin. Daughter Ireland held off both Catherine and Rachel to win the ladies' event, with Rachel carrying off the vet award. Martin managed to keep Dave senior at bay to take the male vet trophy.
Great photos, courtesy of Tom Nelson:
Any suggestions for captions for the following?
3rd Leinthall Starkes handicap - Tuesday June 22nd The final road handicap event of the summer attracted 18 runners on a warm still evening. Frank crossed the finish line first in fine style setting a new P.B. as did Martin in second place as he continues to improve with every race. Mark, with a typically determined performance, completed the top 3. Kayleigh again improved her best time with another spirited run. It was good to see Mick back pacing the rural roads of north Herefordshire after an absence of 12 years or more. Way back in 1991 Mick recorded the 2 nd. fastest time over this traditional course. Also good to see Richard back in action after a lengthy lay-off. The next 3 handicap events will take place in Croft Woods with the first being held on 13th July.
Hanging around, waiting for Mick and Richard (harshly handicapped?) For fastest times, click here Summer Off-road League - Kinnersley - June 16th 123 runners (41 ladies, exactly one third) turned out for the first of the summer series, on a firm grassy course (apart from the detour through the wood, where Martin lost his shoe in the mud!) We were first team (Stacey, Simon, Dave A and Sue), and now have to hang on to that. Stacey ran well to finish 3rd (32.33), behind Jon Pugh and Luke. Simon was 6th (33.59) and Dave A (13th, 35.16) just kept ahead of Gavin (15th, 35.34) and Dave G (16th, 35.37) who were then followed by Neil P (20th, 36.35), Mark (21st, 36.39) and Mick (22nd, 36.59) who was 1st over 50. Eight of the first 22 runners were from Croft - a really good result. Pat (31st, 38.35), Sue (1st lady, 32nd, 38.38) and Martin (33rd, 38.43) formed the next Croft bunch. Jon ran well after an injury break to come home 40th (39.48) and Gary G (48th, 40.15) showed that the Man v Horse and training the night before hadn't diminished his strength. Guy (50th, 40.41) just edged out Alison, before Frank crossed the line in 61st place (42.59). Dave R (snr) was 66th (43.41) and Tom 72nd (44.22). Liza (91st, 16th lady, 46.20) just held off Rachel (92nd, 46.30). Kayleigh (103rd, 49.23) beat 20 other runners, including Bryan (111th, 50.59) and Catherine (116th, 53.57). Results on Results page.
Man v Horse - June 12th We were blessed with a fine sunny day, not too hot and not too much wind. Gary G and Nicky bravely committed themselves to running the whole 22 miles, while Dan and Gary P made the decision to run at the last minute. Stacey also appeared, having been recruited by Jonathan Pugh the night before to join the '6 are better than 4' team, and a successful run they had too: first relay team, just behind the 2nd male runner. Once again the horse won (2hrs 7 mins), 10 minutes clear of Haggai Chepkwony (a previous winner). The first lady, Antoinette Minniti, crossed the line in 2.48.27. Gary P (having done some secret solo training!) was the first Croft runner to run the 22 miles ( 3hr 5min 21s), followed by Dan (3.11.59), young Dave (spurred on by a phonecall while running, from his mum, wondering where he was!) in 3.19.07, and then Nicky who finished 2nd FV50, just 4 minutes behind the winner, in 3.32.52 - what a great run! Gary G felt the lack of recent training (blame the volcanic ash!) and came home in 3.41.16, having also run the first leg of our over 60 relay team. Tom ran the second leg, handing over in a combined time of 2hrs 10mins - ahead of my predicted time, so it was a quick strip off and away. We finished in 3.10.57, 6th vet team (out of 27), and first over 50 and over 60, but with no trophy to show for it. Catherine gamely stuck to the task, spending nearly 5 hours on her feet, finishing in 4.54.57. Magic Roundabout - June 6th, 2010 The usual comedy routine at the start, before 167 runners (followed 5 minutes later by dogs and their owners) set off round this 'undulating'10k course. Dry and dusty throughout, but soft cushion on the grassy bits. Although there was little direct sun, it was hot and humid too, so the drinks station at the 6k point was very welcome. There then followed three testing hills before the final drop down to the finish. Sue had a good race, finishing 3rd lady and 1st over 45. Stacey ran well to finish 6th (40.03), and Mark was 21st (43.53). Tom and Nicky completed their last race (thankfully, and with much fatigue) before the demands next weekend of the Man v. Horse competition. Kayleigh caught Bryan (doing a dummy run for over 70 category next month) on the line and was first junior lady, in her first race. Very well done! Full results on results page.
Sorry no photos of Rachel and Kayleigh - photographer distracted/blinded/suffering from heat-stroke? Crocodile 8 - May 30th, 2010 Awaiting a report, but the results are on the Results page (via Events) LEINTHALL STARKES 5 Another excellent turnout for the 2 nd race in the 2010 series and Girl Power ruled as 4 of the first 5 across the finish line were female. Catherine was disappointed with her performance last month but she rectified that with a determined solo run at the front of the field to knock over 5 mins. off that previous time. Kayleigh, running the course for just the second time, continued her improvement to slice a big chunk off her first attempt and still looked strong at the finish as she sprinted over the line. Completing the female whitewash Natalie, after a 10 year hiatus, returned to register 3 rd place. Martin overtook Nicky in the closing stages to take 4 th place with another strong run and another P.B. Stuart and Liza both ran the event for the first time and their estimated times were almost accurate as Liza held off the advances of her fast closing husband by just 9 secs. Simon provided the comedy moment of the evening as he appeared to be intoxicated by the scent of the oilseed rape in the surrounding fields and flew away with the fairies as he headed towards Leintwardine in a quest for extra mileage. He came to his senses before darkness descended and the search party was able to relax. He has only run the course about 8 times previously so the error is understandable. The next handicap event will be held on Tues. 22 nd June. This will be the last of the Leinthall Starkes runs before we head to the woods. For Elaine's excellent photos, click here, and here. Results. John Cooper's Funeral On Tuesday 18 th May, Tom Davies and I represented Croft Ambrey Running Club at John’s funeral in Discoed Church near Presteigne. The service was well attended and we were privileged to be part of the ceremony. John and Cynthia have played leading roles in the Presteigne Pacers Club over the last few years and I personally remember many running battles with John particularly over the cross-country courses. He will be missed by many. Bryan Markham Hereford (St Michael's Hospice) Half Marathon - May 16th What an experience! Croft Ambrey sent a large contingent of runners to this event, on an increasingly warm, dry day. Record numbers turned out – almost 800 – and we were encouraged by spectators all the way round! Jonathan Pugh won in 1:14:51and first lady was Claire Conway in 1:29:21 Dave Rouse jnr. led Croft in at 1:25:01 (very dramatic finish-line photos, Dave!). Simon had a rough time but crossed the line at 1:27:59 just behind Gary Pearson at 1:27:52. Ian Price made 1:32:19, Dave George 1:34:11 and Jon Utley was pleased with 1:41:49. Neil Taylor, hiding in the results list, made 1:53:05 after Dave Rouse snr. with 1:51:43. Frank still has some of that London magic and was delighted with 1:42:06. It was great to see Karen Preston again, running the race for only the second time, coming in at 2:05:10. When you have never run a distance before, the final sections – especially your likely finish time – are a total mystery, I’ve found. Martin Williams’ 1:38:38 debut result was a total shock to him - fantastic result! For myself, I’d thought a debut 2:20, maybe 2:10 on race day, but saw that clock on the finish line and somehow found enough to sprint in under the two hours at 1:57:54! Thank you everyone for your help, kind advice, encouragement and patience as I built up to my biggest race ever (particularly when everything started to seize up on me in the days before the race!) I’ve learnt a huge amount, increasing from a 15/20 mile week to a 25/30 mile week, since March. I can only marvel at the dedication, commitment and knowledge of all in the club who do so many challenging runs of all kinds. Thankyou. Rachel
Le Moutier d'Ahun 10k - May 13th It was cold at 9am registration, but a free (2 tone) T shirt helped. I was all ready to show my new UKA licence card, for the first time, but no-one was interested. The start was on the medieval bridge beneath the old abbey (le Moutier), and we set off at a steady pace along lanes and then muddy tracks, first following the railway line and than back over the river, a few climbs then down to the finish at the bridge. There was a strange silence during the run - no encouragement from marshals or the few spectators, and a little muted applause at the finish. Maybe it was the cold, maybe it was the relatively early hour. I'd reckoned on 3m30 km splits (for easy calculation!) and in fact averaged 3m35 to finish in 35.50, 100m behind the 1st over 60 ( a mere youngster of 60 and a few days). Guy Relay - May 5th The ladies' vet team (Liza, Nicky and Sue) came away with medals, as did the men's over 60 team (Gary, Tom and Guy). The senior men were second (3 Daves and a Dan), as were the over 40 men, and the over 50 men. Sue ran the fastest over 35 leg in 13.01, with Alison 2nd and Nicky 3rd (14.02). Simon was 2nd fastest over 40 (11.21), with Nigel M 5th (11.42) and Mark 7th (11.57). Neil ran really well to be 2nd over 50 (13.06). In the over 60s men, Gary (12.42) had to settle for 2nd, just 4 seconds behind Steve H . Guy was 3rd (13.02) and Tom 4th (13.28): as a team they finished just 10 seconds behind the winning over 50s. Kayleigh ran a very gutsy leg for the senior ladies, recording the 4th fastest leg of the evening (15.20) For full results, click here(1). (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) The Red Kite Challenge, Nant Yr Arian, Ponterwyd. May 1st 2010 - Sue The ‘Red Kite Challenge’ is the first race of a weekend ‘Festival of Running and Walking’ in the Nant yr Arian / Devils Bridge area. Now, in its sixth year. The Saturday race was 11 plus miles of trail and took us deep into and up through the southern foothills of the Plynlimon mountain range. Being a ‘UK Trail Championship race’ (Short course), it has been designed to test or should that be sap the strength of each competitor in a variety of ways. Briefly looking at the course map displayed beforehand gave forewarning of this, with words like ‘Death Valley’ and beyond the lake of ‘Rack and Ruin’. So, quite a demanding, rollercoaster experience was had by all but, the stunning vast scenery made it all very worthwhile. The race was very well organised and well marshalled and one day, I may even attempt to follow it with the 18 mile race held on the Sunday (The Devil’s Race). Winners: Men: Tim Davies, Maldwyn Harriers 1:10:55 (new course record), Afan Humphries, Swansea Harriers 1:11:40, Peter Ryder, Cardiff AAC 1:12:15. Women: Jo Meek, Tavistock 1:23:11. Phoebie Webster, Aberystwyth A.C. 1:24:36, Anna Bartlett, Shrewsbury A.C. 1:25:45 (1st V40). Two Croft members wandered west for the Red Kite Challenge: Mark Paviour 1:33:33, Sue Davies 1:37:12 (4th lady, 1st FV45) Also spotted from our League: Tim Iveson, Builth & District 1:18:50 (8th place), Steve Herington 1:37:07 (1st MV60), Andy Westlake, Presteigne 1:43:21 and Cath Edwards, Presteigne 2:09:09. Virgin London Marathon, 25 th April by Stacey Race day had finally arrived; the hardest part was over, my body had endured the 3 months of hard training and I’d made it to the start line in one piece. I had the luxury of the championship start this year, a sectioned off area in the corner of the blue start area. No queuing for toilets as there were enough spread out for everyone, and you could keep your warm clothes on right up until it was time to line up as the baggage lorry was alongside our warm up area. I lined up along with the other runners and we were walked slowly towards the start line, I ended up 3 rows back from the front, close enough to touch the worlds elite, and managed to get myself in view of the cameras. The stampede started and it took awhile to settle in to race pace, I’d decided to break the race down into 5-mile segments, trying to hit the 30-minute mark for each of these. The miles soon passed, and I cruised through the ½ marathon mark in 1:19:01, bang on target. But as I reached the 16-mile point my calves decided to give up on me, I slowed down dramatically as every step was painful on landing, and seriously doubted whether I would finish. As I approached the 20-mile mark a quick glance at the watch told me I was still running at a reasonable pace and could break 2:45, I carried on, and started acknowledging the tremendous support from the crowds, with every wave I gave the cheers would go up again. This continued through the remainder on the race, and really helped me get through to the finish. I eventually crossed the line in 2:43:09 a Pb, but someway off what I was capable of achieving had everything gone right on the day. I collected my belongings and headed straight back to my hotel, feeling frustrated at what could have been. Apart from my calves, the rest of me felt fresh and I didn’t feel as though I’d run a marathon.
Finishing time: 2:43:09; Position Overall 257 th; Gender 254 th Welsh champ position Overall 12 th Age group 4 th (provisionally) The London Marathon, 25 April 2010 - Frank After months of apprehension, minor injury paranoia, ice, snow and just about every other training complication you can imagine, here I was standing in the rain along with several thousand other expectant, budding athletes (and some proper ones too!) on Blackheath Common filled with eager anticipation as the start time loomed close……but it wasn’t any old start…. This was the start of the 2010 Virgin London Marathon. Through the anticipation, the exhilaration, the pain , the exhaustion and the amazing sense of achievement, thank you Croft Ambrey. Naturally I’ll be entering the ballot for next year! Place: overall 14890 Gender 11859 Age Cat. 885 Finish Time 04:15:37 Shobdon Wood - April 25th, 2010 For the first time, pre-entries exceeded entries on the day, and the rain kept off and gave us one of the pleasantest days for a number of years. 101 runners completed the course, which was dry despite some overnight rain and we even expected records to be broken. In the event there was only one but that was by a huge margin: Sarah Waldron, 4th overall, destroyed the women's record by 5 minutes 9 seconds. The international cross country runner 'was 'getting back into fitness' - maybe next year she'll show us what she can do when in full form. Jon Pugh (Builth) won the men's race in 34.49, but the margin over Luke Mason (Wye Valley)(35.43) was less than one might have expected. Simon led home the Croft contingent, in 5th place (37.29) ahead of Dave A (8th, 39.47) and Dave G (9th, 40.02) followed by Neil P (13th, 41.36), Stuart (16th, 42.04 - 1st over 45) and Mick (17th, 42.30 - 1st over 50). Jon, Gary, Neil also ran. Liza helped fill the Austin family trophy shelf, winning the women's over 45 (59th, 52.16). Full results on the Results page (go to Events, and click on Results)
Jon Pugh, Luke Mason, Sarah Waldron, John Pullen and Simon. Neil P, with Stuart just behind. LEINTHALL STARKES 5 - April 6th The first Leinthall Starkes 5 race is the club’s traditional opener for the summer season. This year’s event again served as the first counting race in the Croft Ambrey club championship for 2010. Excellent running conditions welcomed the competitors to the accurately measured 5 mile course and this was reflected in the recording of 5 P.B.’s and 2 club age group course records. Stacey’s preparation for an attack on the London Marathon looks to be on track as he ran a solo race from the first step to set a P.B. and consolidate his status as 5th fastest of all time over the course. A fast marathon time surely awaits him if conditions are favourable. Simon, running his first time trial as a vet., also ran most of the way on his own to take 2nd place with Dave Rouse, fresh from his excellent 3rd place in the Presteigne 10 K, third. Gavin, Glyn, Mark and Dave George battled with each other throughout and the result depended on who was strongest on the long gradual climb towards the finish. Gavin burned off the opposition with a devastating burst over the final few hundred metres. He sliced an enormous 1 min. 21 secs. from his previous best time - an achievement all the more commendable considering the severe injury he suffered at the final cross country race at Presteigne. Sue Davies was another solo runner in the middle of the field but she was able to concentrate on her pace judgement and push hard to set a P.B. by 6 secs. and break the club FV 45 record by over a minute. An outstanding performance. A further club record was set by Nicky, another working her way back from a debilitating injury, as she set a FV 50 best time. Rachel and Frank proved that they continue to improve as they both carved huge chunks off their previous best times. Two runners made their debuts on the course. Martin gets better with every run and Kayleigh ran impressively over a longer distance than she had previously attained. The next event will be handicapped and takes place on Tuesday 25 th May.
Stacey in his recovery position ? Rachel still chirpy after 5 mile race! Martin glowing in the gloom Chocoholics 5km Maldwyn Harriers - Good Friday April 2 nd 2010 - Sue D With snowdrifts spilling out onto the road driving over to Newtown from Knighton under a veil of damp rain, race conditions seemed to look very unappealing. However, as the start gun loomed, Newtown was granted a fair weather slot, vest weather arrived. Now in it’s second year this is a nippy out and back 5km. The course takes runners from the leisure centre past the houses of Maesyrhandir along pavement, path and road out and up to a lollipop turn-a-round in a quiet industrial estate. There is a definite hill involved leading up to the halfway point. This year over 100 people took part in a pitch against time and it was obvious the first man was flying, as he was seen on his return before most of us had even got over the hill. Steve Orrells (lead vehicle) was sprinting on his mountain bike to keep ahead. No excuse to say the hill made me slow, first man and woman took admirable course records. Results: Men: 1st David Webb Leeds City A.C. 14.55; 2nd Tim Davies Maldwyn Harriers 16.15; 3rd Ifan Richards Meirionnydd 17.13 Women: 1st Alison Lavender Oswestry Olympians 17.41; 2nd Ffion Price Brecon AC 18.30; 3rd Rhianwedd Price Brecon AC 19.06 Three Croft members took part with Ashley Cooke spectating: Mark Paviour 19.19 (coming back to fitness from his broken metatarsal), Sue Davies 20.03 (1st V45), Alison Cooke 21.09 (2nd V45) Presteigne 10k - Dave R A surprisingly low turnout from Croft, considering Presteigne Pacers, although a club of only around 12 members always manage to show us a good level of support for our Shobdon race. Croft turnout numbered 4- Dave R jnr and Bryan Markham competing and Catherine and Dave Powell marshalling. The weather for the day was near ideal for the race, although a relatively strong wind meant that on the return run to Presteigne the wind was in your face, 35 runners turned out (nearly half the field of last year). 1st Luke Mason in under 35mins! 3rd Dave R jnr in just over 38mins possibly a pb (not quite sure how, considering the lack of training!) Bryan around 52mins 30sec- great running, well done Bry Bishops Castle Tandem Triathlon - July 3rd - advance notice The club has been offered £150 if we can/will supply the marshals for this event. It would probably invlove a lot of cover and planning, but maybe this year individuals may want to help out and that way we'll get an idea of the possible commitment for another year. Anyone willing to volunteer, for any part of the 5 hours total marshalling time, should contact Sue Davies ( 01568 770005/ s.bennettdavies@googlemail.com). Details of the tandem race: www.tandeming.co.uk Carding Mill Canter - March 6th Gary and Guy were the only (first claim) Croft participants, in this the last (?) of the Shropshire winter fell running series. It was a pleasant surprise to have relatively dry conditions, even though there was no chance of avoiding getting wet, in one of the many stream crossings. 84 completed the course, won by Andrew Cale (SAC), in 40.36, 3minutes and 14 secs ahead of his nearest rival. Mick was suffering and came home 5th M50, 32nd in 54.52. Guy in trainers (faulty memory meant no studs) was next, in 55.03 (1st M65), with Gary 39th (56.55), on the heals of his arch rival from Shropshire Shufflers, Colin Williamson, who beat him by 3 seconds (familiar story, like Clee Hill: how can Gary gain 4 seconds in a race?); despite this, Gary was 1st M60, and should have the series title too. Congratulations, Gary, on the hours of running put in over the Shropshire Hills. It was a nice surprise too to be cheered on at the top of the last hill by Sue and Mark. Herefordshire Cross Country League - Race 5 - Presteigne (28/02/10) The postponed final race saw fewer competitors than in previous rounds -110 finishers and Gavin who twisted an ankle and did not complete the course. Croft were much better represented on the men's side, pulling up to 3rd in the team event, but still 4th overall. Simon had a great run in 6th (49.10), just behind Luke Mason. Nigel Misselbrook made a welcome return and ran well to be next finisher in 21st (53.19), a little ahead of Dan (54.28). Dave G (26th, 55.15) completed the A team. Dave A (30th, 56.11) and Neil Powell (32nd, 56.24) were close behind. Guy came in 41st (60.20), with Mark suffering from lack of fitness finishing 43rd (60.27). Then came Tom (48th, 61.34), leading in a line of Croft runners: Neil (52nd, 62.14), Gary (62.40), Daren (62.51), Frank (63.06) and Martin (63.36). Brian Davies couldn't quite catch the queue and was 59th, 2 places further back, in 64.47 - he didn't stop at the finishing lane but carried on to his Landrover to get back to the call of the farm. Dave R (snr) on the back of very little training finished 64th (68.41). In the ladies' race, Sue was 3rd (33.56), closing slightly more every race on Susan Marr in 2nd. Young Clara Evans was the outright winner in 32.12, despite once being sent the wrong way. Alison was 5th, holding off Nicola Goodwin, who is also getting stronger every race. Liza Austin is another who is steadily moving up the field: 13th (out of 31), in 39.54, a minute ahead of Rachel (15th, top half of field). The ladies' team finished 4th, and remain 4th overall. Over the series, Sue won the 1st FV40 award, Neil T was 3rd MV50, Tom 1st MV60 and Guy 1st MV65. The ladies (Liza, Rachel and Karen) won third vet place in the county team event, but the greatest achievement was Stacey's being Senior Men's Champion. Last year we had Suzanne being the ladies' League champion - how do we follow this next year? Race and series results on Results page (via Events)
Winter Social (Corners Inn, Kingsland) Dave George welcomed the 50 odd (very!) members to the Corners for the club winter social. He was able to reveal that the club has 3 Welsh champions, and one in the offing. Sue Davies won the Welsh 5k FV45 championships in Swansea, and Mark won the MV45 at the same event. Stacey is the reigning MV35 champion over 10 miles, and Gary G looks to have won the MV60 prize in the South Wales winter fell race series (as well as the Shropshire title). On top of that, Stacey is the senior men's county cross country champion.(For the winter league results, see above, or go to the Results page [via Events]) A full list of trophy winners will appear shortly.
Trophy winners at the 2010 Winter Social Muddy Woody 6 - 14th February 2010 Clear, sunny but cold conditions welcomed the 300 plus entry to Haugh Wood near Mordiford for the 2010 edition of Wye Valley Runners 6 mile woodland cross country race. The course was very much as used in previous Muddy Woodys and included two very cold and tricky river crossings at around half distance and a couple of seriously steep muddy slopes one of which was a nasty sting in the tail near to the end of the course. Owing to the previous week’s weather being mainly dry there was , perhaps, less mud than some competitors were expecting which did little to make the final steep climb any easier to negotiate. Owing to a local major road being closed due to roadworks the start was delayed by 30 minutes to 11.30am to allow late arrivals a better chance of making the start. Matt James (Hereford Couriers) led home the 283 finishers in a time of 43 minutes 30 seconds winning the race for the 4th year in succession,13 seconds ahead of Jon Newey ( Malvern Joggers) 2nd and John Pullen (Wye Valley Runners) 3rd in 43.50. First lady home was Nicola Edwards (Couriers) who was 60th overall in a time of 56.46. The quartet of Croft Ambrey runners who took the start all achieved noteworthy performances with Neil Powell finishing an excellent 30th in 51.47, Gary Gunner 61st in 56.51 and claiming 1st mv60, Frank Luscott was 84th in 58.42 whilst Kim Wood, Crofts only female entrant, finished 266th in 84.23 Frank Longmynd Valleys - 6th/7th February Gary and Dave R were the only Croft runners to run the Clee Hill race, it being the day before race 4 of the cross country league. Gary was 2nd over 60 (by 3 seconds?), in 26.13, with Dave three seconds ahead (there's a good pic of him at the summit, in a fetching red anorak(?), and one of Gary, anxiously scratching his head). Gary ran the Sunday race too, and finished in 2hrs 43.20. Herefordshire Cross Country League - Race 4 - Monkhall Farm (07/02/2010) A rather smaller turnout all round (though still 45 ladies), and Croft men were particularly down in numbers. Sue Davies had a great run, finishing 2nd behind Susan Marr and nearly a minute ahead of Alison. Liza (38.05) just pipped Rachel (38.19); Karen finished in 43.47. Stacey ran his first league race of the season, finishing just behind Tim Clarke, 3rd in 38.41. There was then a long wait for the next Croft runner - Gavin (31st) coming home in 45.30, ahead of Dave G (45.41). Martin completed the A team, 43rd in 48.27. Guy was next (49.11) with Tom close behind (49.36). Frank (50.21), Daren (50.24) and Neil (50.55) packed closely. It was a flatter course than usual, some parts fast-ish others heavy with mud and a final steep finish which tested the older runners amongst us! The men's team is 4th =, and desperately in need of a strong team for the last race to bring us up to 3rd. The ladies' team is also 4th, just behind the Hereford Tri Club. Full results are on the results' page (click on Events, then Results) The Winter Social will take place at the Corners Inn, Kingsland, on February 26th (19.30)
Croft members after the Croft Castle cross country, November 2009
New Year's Day - Hereford Happy New Year! A bright, sunny, very cold day greeted runners from far flung places such as Cardiff, Malvern, Halesowen and Croft Ambrey on 1st January 2010 at Hereford Rowing Club. Rachel Nelson and Dave Rouse Snr. flew the club flag, with Kim cheering on the sidelines. My first time round the course, it proved to be undulating country lanes with enough short hills to keep it interesting and snowy views of Hay Bluff and Hereford City in the sun. Only 60 yards of packed ice forced us up onto the verge, and it was well marshalled all round. Our intentions to take things easy after the festive season got swept away in the excitement of it all. My last road run was Tenbury 2008 and I managed a pb by 3: 50, finishing in 51:48. Dave disappeared ahead, completing it in 49:26 - just as well, as he'd assured Elaine he wouldn't be longer than 50 minutes! And if he was, she was to shoot him! We both agreed the Welsh Slate coaster was very nice and much appreciated by those of us who never see the front of a race, but can still come home carrying a prize for taking part. Its what gets me out of bed! For those of you who are interested in what was going on up in front: 173 men 66 ladies 239 finished 1st Thomas Yates (unattached) 34:36 2nd Luke Mason ( Wye Valley) 34:39 138th, (117th male) Dave Rouse snr. in 49:26
1st Susan Marr ( Wye Valley) 39:26 160 (29th lady) Rachel Nelson 51:48 Boxing Day run at Croft Castle A perfect morning! Fantastic weather, loads of runners, great turnout from Croft matched by Lucs which included two dogs. Great runs by Dan Barnett and John Utley almost matched by the course record holder Mick Ligema – echoes of yesteryear. Trophy lost again but Dan accepted a rather dull and battered substitute on behalf of the victorious Croft team. Tom Davies (B.Sc Open University) is as I write working on a scoring formula which will hopefully take into account the obvious disparities in the two teams – watch this space. Once again thanks to everyone for either running or supporting this quite special event. Results: 1) Dan 2) Sam Johnson (Lucton) 3) Jon 4) Mick Ligema 5) Dave G 6) Gary 7) Martin 8) Guy 9) Tom 10) Frank11) Kate W (Croft) 12) Neil 13) Dave R snr 14) Tim W (Croft) 15) Peter Hamilton 16) Ian Johnson (L) 17) Tom Lawley (L) 18) Tim Robinson (C) 19) Howard Verron (C) 20) Jennie Smith (L) 21) Max Dalziel (L) 22) Jemma Wood (C) 23) Rachel 24) Milly Bemand (L) 25) John Smith (L) 26) Paul Thorne (L) 27) Hattie Thorne (L) 28) Gill Thorne (L) 29) Dee Gozener (L) 30) Dave Norman (L) 31) Simon Lyke (L) 32) Alfie [dog] (L) 33) John (Jack?) Russell (L) 34) William Russell (L) 35) Emma Dalziel (L) 36) Rob Dalziel (L) 37) Euan Dalziel (L) 38) Kate Lyke (L) 39) Natasha Dalziel (L) 40) Jennifer Dalziel (L) 41) Bryan M (L). [ Sorry there are no times - something to do with the cold weather affecting the club secretary's 'equipment' - Ed.] Bryan
Shortly you will receive an invitation to the Winter Social, and a voting slip for Club Runner of the Year, male and female. I think the criteria are something like: the runner who has shown commitment, achieved some notable performances and shown support to the club. I urge you to look back through the whole of 2009 before placing your vote.
Cardington Cracker - Dec 6th Gary ran this, as preparation for the Mortimer 10? He came in 139th (out of 237), 3rd over 60, in 1hr 51m 19s. Mortimer Forest Hill Race - Dec 13th (2009) 362 finishers completed this demanding, very muddy course. Dan was first Croft runner (21st, 80.48), but Dave Rouse (35th, 83.12) and Jon Utley (50th, 86.42) also had good runs. Ian Price is showing a revival - he finished 74th (90.06), first over 60. Patrick (85th, 90.54) decided to run in the end, but had a nasty knock to his foot, so let's hope he won't regret his decision. Nicky is maintaining her great form, 11th lady, 116th overall (93.59) and 2nd over 50. Gary (125th, 95.09) finished strongly, 3rd over 60, as did Neil T (133rd, 95.53). Guy (137th, 96.26) was just happy to get round. Frank (perhaps not looking quite so fresh as last week?) came in 177th (101.13) with Tom 216th (105.04). Full results on the results page. Herefordshire X-Country League - Race 3 - Aconbury (6 December 2009) A slightly smaller field (shrunk in the recent rain?) took on this very wet and muddy course over Aconbury Hill, and Croft certainly were somewhat weakened for this 3rd race. Star of the day was Nicky, who got off to a good start and held on to finish 3rd (42.51), nearly 2 minutes ahead of Alison. Rachel is also making great progress - 21st out of 47 (51.23), ahead of Liza (24th, 52.05). Kim, (36th, 58.07) making a welcome return, finished just ahead of Karen (37th, 58.21). Dan was the first male home, in 16th (43.44), with Simon 19th (44.31). Jon had a good run (24th, 46.37) beating young Dave (29th, 46.53), Dave A (34th, 47.20) and Dave G (37th, 48.42) - who just pipped Neil P (38th, 48.46). Ian Price (44th, 50.11) appeared again, putting pressure on Steve Herington, but failed by 12 seconds to be first over 60. Guy (55th, 52.39) was first over 65, chased by Tom (58th, 53.00) and brother Brian (63rd, 53.30). Frank crossed the line in 73rd (55.08) still looking relatively fresh! Herefordshire X-Country League - Race 2 - Croft Castle (15 Nov 2009) Another record turnout (over 150), on a course saturated by recent heavy rain. Ryan Bevis (Builth) won the men's race, with Tim Clarke beating Matt into 3rd place. Simon fought hard, tho' not fully fit, to finish 15th (54.33), and young Dave picked up places during the race, coming home 23rd (55.34) just ahead of Dave A (55.36). Well done both. Mark (26th) and Dan (28th) were close behind. Jon (35th) and Pat (36th) also came in under the hour as did Neil P (39th). Gavin (41st) crossed the line in 60.22, with Ashley (45th) running a good final lap, finishing in 60.58. Ian Price reappeared for this race and came home 1st over 60, 48th in 61.47. Neil T (53rd) ran well (63.08), finishing ahead of Gary G (61st - 64.55) and Steve (62nd - 65.03). Brian D also made his regular annual showing, finishing, appropriately, 65th and 1st over 65 in 65.35. Martin was 71st, Frank 78th and the remarkable Tom, less than a week since leaving his hospital bed, 81st. Daren bravely struggled round, not as fit as he'd like to be, in 90th place. Susan Marr again won the women's race, in 33.00, but Sue came 3rd (35.18), just ahead of the evergreen Alison (35.42) and Nicky (36.29). Rachel (24th) battled round in 41.44, to complete the A team, who are now 4th, but only 2 pts behind 2nd placed Wye Valley. Liza again had a good run (28th, 43.17), with Karen in 37th (44.53)
Simon at the end of lap 1 For Gary's report on his (and Dan and Dave R's) trip around Mont Blanc, click here Herefordshire X-Country League - Race 1 - Moor Park (25 Oct 2009) Well done, Russell! He didn't run, but organised the new course, which, apart from the stiles, seemed to be appreciated by all - no mountains, but plenty of variation and certainly testing. The turnout was new too - many new faces, and not just because of the arrival of Hay Hotfooters. Jonathan Pugh (Builth) won the men's race, in 32.57, ahead of clubmate Ryan Bevis (33.25), pushing Matt into 3rd place (34.04). With a number of talented new runners in the mix, and the absence of some of Croft's talent, we didn't score till Dave Ameghino (great run!) crossed the line in 20th (37.26), just beating Dan (37.27) and Mark (37.28); Dave G wasn't far behind in 28th (38.07). Jon ran well to finish 39th (39.40) ahead of the fast finishing Ashley (39.59). Tom (60th) overhauled a tiring Guy (62nd), with Neil (65th) close behind. Frank, Gary and Daren crossed the line in quick succession (69-71) - 90 men ran in all. The women's race was also won by a newcomer: Susan Marr (WVR), in 16.07, with Sue Davies not so far behind in 2nd (16.57). Nicky ran in typical determined fashion, overhauling a few to finish 9th, and Rachel also ran a great race (22nd, in 20.21) ahead of Liza Austin (31st, 21.29 - excellent first run in Croft colours) and Karen (33rd, 21.32). Kim is steadily working her way up from the back - 42nd (23.14), with Catherine cheerfully bringing up the rear (50th). The men's A team managed 5th (out of 18) and the women 6th (out of 13), but with Sue counting from now on, that position should improve. Full results on Results page (click on 'Events', and then 'Results') Bells of Pattingham - 17 October 2009 Simon N ran this 7 mile cross country race, over a fast flattish course but started suffering from calf pain at 4 miles; he nevertheless carried on, to finish 27th (out of 470) in 46.24. Breidden Hills - October 4th(?) 2009 Tim Davies won easily in 52.22. Nicky ran really well to claim 1st FV45 in 1.18.11, ahead of Tom (1st MV60) in 1.23.09 - well done to both for winning category prizes. Upton Bishop Big Dipper - September 27, 2009 76 runners entered the event this year, and Tim Clarke returned to reclaim victory (he won in 2006). Kim Drinkwater won the ladies' race (39.27) with Alison 2nd (40.30). Nigel Misselbrook was first over 40, 4th overall (35.51) and Nicky 1st FV45 (42.54). Tom managed to beat brother Brian; Ashley also ran. Knill 2 Rivers Run - 20 September 09 A much drier day this time, and even pleasantly sunny at the start; only 53 runners but still an improvement on last year. With better running conditions it was clear the record was going to be broken, which Matt James (55.52) and Stacey (55.54) both managed by some margin. Stacey obviously enjoyed the largely firm ground but was just beaten by Matt, who duly won £10 for breaking the record. Simon was 3rd (58.26), but was followed by 2 Couriers who made up the winning team with Matt. Young Dave R was 10th (62.41), just ahead of chairman Dave (12th, 63.54) making a steady comeback after injury. Jon ran well to finish 15th (65.44). Chris Goode (recorded as a Croft runner!) beat Guy into 21st (68.57 - 1st MV65), with Gary 24th (71.02) [2 races in 2 days!] and Tom 28th (74.25) just ahead of an improving Frank (30th, 74.37). Rachel was awarded 1st FV40 (42nd, 85.42) and Catherine finished 49th in 96.29.
CROFT WOODS HANDICAP 8.09.09
The final race in the 2009 Handicap Series was completed just before darkness descended on the shortening days. Another excellent turnout for the end of season event with 5 runners able to celebrate by recording P.B.s. Kim again ran a solo race at the head of the field to cross the line with a clear lead over Steve, who sliced a big chunk from his best time, with the rapidly improving Martin in third place. Gavin has just joined us this year and deserves special mention for improving his time with each successive run and he already features in the all-time Top 20 performances over the Croft Woods course.
A record 36 different club runners ran at least one race in this summer’s series of handicap races with 9 of them competing in 5 or more races to count towards the final tally. Nicky was crowned 2009 Champion as she won the competition by a sizable margin as she progressed with each run as she recovered from her lengthy injury lay-off in the spring. New boy Gavin finished second with Tom, refusing to bow to advancing years and niggling injuries, in third. For best times, click here
HANDICAP SERIES 2009 - FINAL POSITIONS 1. Nicky Turvey 33 pts. 2. Gavin Wright 40 pts. 3. Tom Davies 48 pts. 4. Stacey Morgan 49 pts. 5. Gary Gunner 50 pts. 6. Glynn Williams 51 pts. 7. Kim Wood 53 pts. 8. Rachel Nelson 54 pts. 9. Guy Whitmarsh 62 pts.
Helvellyn Triathlon 6 September 2009 - Neil The Helvellyn Triathlon is no ordinary race. Potential competitors are strongly advised to ‘check out the route’ before they apply: probably to discourage those people whose idea of a triathlon is a quick dip in the pool followed by a gentle cycle ride around leafy country lanes and a run around the local park. And then there is the weather – the Lake District is notoriously wet, windy and often pretty cold. So it was a relief when this year’s Helvellyn triathlon began in relatively calm conditions by the side of Lake Ullswater on Sunday 6 September. At 8.00 am an excited rumour spread among the assembled competitors “they’ve shortened the swim” and so this was confirmed by the announcer; they had shortened the swim from 1 mile to about 1200 metres because the water temperature was just 11 degrees centigrade (or 52F for older readers), ‘skull-crushingly cold’ as it is described on the website; *** - shrinkingly cold as it is described by male competitors. I was genuinely terrified as I waded into the black, icy waters of the lake. Could I swim nearly 1 mile in these conditions? The answer of course was “yes” and I felt a huge surge of elation as I exited the lake and headed for the bike. The first 27 miles of the bike ride are, in effect a scenic tour of the north-eastern Lake District in an anti-clockwise direction around to Ambleside. Hilly but nothing too hard until riders are directed left up an innocuous little lane that calls itself ‘the Struggle’. What they really mean is ‘hell on wheels’ – a brutal section of road that climbs nearly 1500 feet in less than 3 miles to the top of the Kirkstone Pass. Although I am a slow rider I was delighted to be one of a minority that managed to cycle up the whole of the ascent. And so to the last leg. You’ve swum 1 mile in a freezing lake, cycled 38 miles around the Lake District and all you have to do is run 9 miles to the top of Helvellyn and back – at over 3,100 feet it is England’s second highest mountain. Maybe it was all those repetitions I did up Yatton Bank in the summer but something amazing happened – I felt fine! So fine in fact that I passed many competitors on the way up whose legs had gone; my eyes were locked on the back of my brother Michael, a tough competitor with excellent credentials over tough terrain. At one point I closed him down to 50 metres but with a mighty effort he got away from me on the ‘hands and feet’ scramble up Swirrall edge to the top of the mountain. I gave it everything on the way down, running freely when many others could hardly walk: their ‘quads’ had gone. I was astonished to find myself crossing the finishing line with a smile on my face in a total time of 5 hours 26 minutes; a full half an hour quicker than I had even dreamed was possible. The race that had filled me with dread for many weeks previously had instead been a thoroughly enjoyable outing. Something tells me there’s a little gang of Croft Ambrey runners just itching to try it next year … Purslow Show - August 31st, by Suzanne There was a good turn out for the Purslow show race and it felt like it was considered the highlight of the show with a good number of spectators. Croft had a very good result with Simon Norwood winning the race and defending his title as he won the event last year. Suzanne Turvey was 1st lady home but also Nicky Turvey was 2nd lady home and bagged the prize for the over 40 category. Gary Gunner, Tom Davies and Frank Luscott also ran the race and made the tough hills look easy. The course started on the show ground where we ran out across flat fields onto an undulating road for about a mile. Then we started the ascent up Clunbury Hill which was a tough climb but good going under foot and wide paths which was good for us Croft runners to overtake others! We ran along the ridge for about a mile which had some lovely views which we couldn't really appreciate whilst running hard. At this point the spectators could see the runners on the ridge, from the show ground but we probably only looked like dots, crawling along. We then had a fast finish down the side of the hill and along the road again for less than a mile to the field for a sprint finish in front of the crowd. There was a lovely atmosphere to the day and a small prize giving at the end, where Simon took away a very impressive silver trophy. Source of the Severn - September 6th A small turnout of only 47 runners, for a race of varied terrain (even if basically 4 miles up then 4 miles down). The rain held off and though it was boggy underfoot in places (in others there was a hard rocky path), probably ideal conditions. Tim Davies won by a country mile (54.13), nearly 5 and a half minutes ahead of the second runner. Jon upheld Croft's honour with a solid run in 13th (68.43), 2 places behind Russell. Guy was 25th (74.04), 1st over 60, Nicky ran well (30th, 75.51) but was just pipped by another over 40, 5 seconds ahead, with Gary struggling a bit on the day, next in 31st (77.36). Tom, whose knees didn't like the rocky downhill, was 35th (79.46) CROFT WOODS HANDICAP 18.08.09
Dave George 23.39 Liza Austin 33.14 (Debut) The penultimate race in the 2009 series attracted the smallest field of the summer, with almost as many spectators as runners, but it was still a healthy turnout for this long-running club competition. Tom, having suffered from post-3 Peaks exhaustion last month, bounced back with his first handicap victory for many years in first place. Martin and Frank, both running the course for only the second time, continued their upward progression to finish 2 nd. and 3 rd. with big time improvements and Gavin seems to record P.B.’s every time he runs. Suzanne improved her P.B. by just 6 secs., but in doing so she climbed to No.3 on the all-time Female list over the Croft Woods course. Welcome back to Dave George after a lengthy and frustrating injury layoff. He managed to remember his way around the woodland course, which is more than can be said for a few confused runners. One more to go - on Tuesday 8 th. Sept. Don’t be late – the darker nights are drawing in rapidly. Shobdon Off Road - 12 August Autumn must be on its way - although it rained during the day, the course was relatively dry for once, though the race was run in humid conditions. 111, and 2 guests, completed the attractive two lap course that Mike had designed around the Corbett's estate. Matt was clearly stung by being beaten previously and set out to reclaim his title, finishing 25 seconds ahead of Jonathan Pugh (1st at Westhope) and Stacey (32.48). In all Croft had 5 runners in the top 20: Simon N (6th, 33.55), Dave Rouse (13th, 35.03), Dan (14th, 35.10), and Dave A (17th, 35.40), which together with Suzanne beating Lisa, meant the A team once again came first, but were narrowly beaten by Couriers in the overall placings. Jon and Dave G (welcome back!) were 22nd and 23rd with Gavin 26th, Neil P 32nd and Patrick 35th, given the same time as Suzanne (34th). Nearly a minute elapsed before Lisa crossed the line but no other runner had separated her from Patrick, ensuring Lisa was the women's overall winner, by a narrow margin.Gary G was next in 38th, not quite catching Steve H on this occasion, then a longish gap till Steve (53rd) and Guy (55th), and then Tom (65th) and Daren (68th). Nicky (72nd) completed the B team, ahead of Neil T (and Nicola Goodwin). Frank (80th) just lost out on a sprint to the line, and grandad Dave R came in 84th. Rachel completed the C team, Kim the D team and Catherine the E team - we've never had so many! So Croft A team were second overall, Stacey also 2nd, and Suzanne too. Nicky was 1st over 45 ( a feat, when she's almost into the next category) and Guy 1st over 65 (out of 1 on the night). Bolton Ironman Triathlon - 2nd August Simon is an ironman!! He completed this exhausting, sponsored, event in 12 hours 10 minutes and 57 seconds, a working day and a half! There were 1400 competitors, of whom nearly 200 failed to finish, and Simon came 327th - a magnificent achievement! It all began at 6am with 1 hr 22 minutes' swim, followed by 6 hrs 40 mins (!!) bike and then 3 hrs 48 mins for the run, with 20 minutes in transitions. His own report is due to appear soon. Tenbury 10km 2 nd August 2009 - Suzanne It was a day of perfect running conditions: being mild but not blazing sunshine. There was a good atmosphere at the event and it attracted 208 runners in total. There were nine Croft Ambrey runners who finished in the order of: Dave Rouse Jr 15 th 40mins, Suzanne Turvey 29 th (2 nd Lady) 42mins 43secs, Dave George 31 st 43mins 4secs, Jon Utley 33 rd 43mins 9secs, Nicky Turvey 67 th (4th Lady, 1 st FV45) 46mins 58secs, Dave Rouse Sr 83 rd 48mins 16secs, Martin Williams 85 th 48mins 33secs, Frank Luscott 100 th 50mins 18secs, Nigel Davidson 159 th 57mins 19secs. The course was undulating with a more challenging hill at the 3 mile marker which made it a more interesting race but meant that times were slightly slower than other 10km courses. But, all runners seemed to enjoy the day and were pleased with their individual performances. Duathlon Thursday August 6th - Bryan A beautiful summer evening and a group of athletes more resembling the Tour de France than Corft Ambrey Running Club. Every form of cycling sophistication, colourful clothing, rippling muscles (Tom being the exception on his mountain bike [Tom surely doesn't lack colourful clothing, sophistication and rippling muscles? -Ed]) the 'peloton' hurtled ever onwards. Locals were amazed - reports are still coming back to me. Young Dave and Dan paced each other from the off. John briefly emerged to challenge with the fastest bike ride but young Dave's overall capability on both bike and run saw him come home a comfortable winner defending his title like a true champion. We may have to think about changing the course next year as the level of competition by both man and machine makes parts of the course slightly dangerous, not least to people coming the other way! Competitor .. lap 1 ( run ) . lap 2 ( cycle ) . lap 3 (cycle) .lap4 (cycle) .lap 5 (run) . Position Pat Pearson ..17.01 (5th) ..24.10 (7.09) ...31.17 (7.07) . 39.01 (7.44) 57.10 (18.09) . . 4th . . . .Dave Rouse 15.25 (1st) ..23.38 (8.01) . . 30.46 (7.18) . 38.13 (7.27) . 53.19 (15.06) . 1st . . . . Dan Barnett . 15.25 (1st) . 23.28 (8.03) . . 31.00 (7.32) . 39.02 (8.02) . 55.04 (16.02) . 2nd . . .Neil Taylor . 18.37 (7th) . 27.05 (8.28) . . 35.21 (8.16) . 44.00 (8.39) . 63.07 (19.07) . 7th . . .Daren Lincoln 17.51 (6th) 25.57 (8.06) . . 33.29 (7.32) . 41.32 (8.03) . 59.42 (18.10) . 6th . . . Simon Powney 16.41 (4th) 25.07 (8.26) . . 33.24 (8.17) . 41.48 (8.24) . 59.24 (17.36) . 5th . . .Jon Utley . . . .16.22 (3rd) 23.46 (7.24) . . 30.45 (6.59) . 38.12 (7.27) . 55.37 (17.25) . 3rd Tom Davies . 18.18 . . . . . 27.57 (9.39) . . 38.10 (10.13) .xxxxxx .56.41 (18.31) 1st m'tain bike. CROFT WOODS HANDICAP 14.07.09
Dave Ameghino 23.17 (Debut) Richard Hornsby 24.51 Martin Williams 30.05 (Debut)
Wet undergrowth and rainy conditions failed to dampen the runners enthusiasm as a plethora of P.B.’s was set. The abilities of the “Old Timer” were sorely tested as runners set off at incorrect times, whilst some got lost in their warm-ups, and many crossed the finish line together (which should be the case in a handicap event), so it is hoped that the results are correct. Kim ran a brilliant solo run at the front of the field to slice a huge 2 mins. 5 secs. from last year’s P.B. Simon P. improved his best by a big chunk as he demonstrated the benefits of more consistent training and Nicky was 3 rd. as she continued her road back to full recovery. Bryan awarded his discretionary prize to Rachel, who continued her progress by knocking over one and a half minutes from her best. Dave Ameghino’s first run over the course resulted in an impressive performance which places him at no. 11 on the all-time fastest in the event. MULTI-EVENTS 2009 The ever-expanding club membership necessitated the first ever daytime running of the annual “Sports Day”. The weather was kind to us and the absence of multiple champion, Patrick, meant that a new male champion would be crowned at the end of the day. The day’s proceedings opened in dramatic fashion at the Long Jump pit with both Dan and Nigel executing spectacular, though possibly foolhardy, rolling somersault exits from the sand-pit. Thankfully, no damage was done and Dan emerged with an early lead from Nigel and Dave R. Jnr. The female competition was a little more elegant with Natalie establishing an early lead over reigning champion ,Suzanne, with Sonia (tasting the delights of the event for the first time) in third place. The gruelling 400 metres was the opening track race and Nigel stormed home to draw level on points with Dan, who just held off a battling Dave , to grab 2 nd. Place. Suzanne levelled the Female contest as she held off Natalie with Kim fighting her way to 3 rd. Dan built up a big lead in the Shot Put with Martin demonstrating his strength to take 2 nd. with Jon 3 rd. Natalie produced a massive throw to win by a huge margin and open a points gap on her rivals. Kim continued her good form to place 2 nd., with Catherine 3 rd. Nigel and Dan again battled their way down the 100 metres track with Nigel just getting the verdict in a club Multi-Events record time of 12.48. Congratulations Nigel on a superb performance. Gavin recorded the 3rd. fastest time to register his best position of the day. Natalie opened up a 4 point gap over Suzanne with a clear victory over the reigning champ. With Kim again posting another impressive 3rd. place. The Javelin was the final field event and we were privileged to witness a dazzling display of spear-throwing as Dan hurled the missile to a distance of 41.15 metres to break the club record by over 6 metres. Suzanne launched the female javelin more delicately to win from Elaine and Nicky. Natalie failed to register a legitimate throw to leave Suzanne as a clear favourite to win the title.
Men's 100m (Dave R, Simon P, Gavin, Martin). Suzanne leading Kim and Sonia in the ladies' 100m The 1500 metres proved to be an exciting climax to the day’s sporting endeavours with Nigel, Dan and Dave disputing the lead every step of the way until Nigel unleashed a devastating finishing sprint to break the 5 minute barrier with Dave just holding off Dan to take 2nd. place. Suzanne smiled her way to a comfortable victory over Sonia , with Nicky in 3rd. Dan was duly crowned Multi-Events champion 2009 with Suzanne defending her title as female champion. Dave Rouse Snr. was rewarded for a solid and consistent display to take the Veteran’s trophy and Sonia just pipped Nicky for the female Veteran’s award.
Summer Off-road : Westhope (July 29) Probably another wet one, but not being there I'm only guessing. Stacey continues his challenge to Matt, this time being just 4 seconds behind. Both were beaten though by Jonathon Pugh, of Builth and District. Suzanne had a storming run, being the first lady by a clear margin and ensuring Croft were first team (first time for 20 years?). Dan is still improving, finishing 6th, only a little behind the leading pack. Team results; individual results. Hanway Hill Heave - July 12th A disappointing turn-out for the inaugural run of this 1 mile hill race: only one non-club runner (Rachel's brave sister), 4 from Ludlow, 5 from Croft, 1 from Telford AC and a visitor from Saffron Walden. The sun shone for the race itself, and the leading 5 sped away from the start. Dave R (jnr) and Pat pulled away gradually, until Dave opened up a bit of space, with Mick Ligema and Russell a little further back. Dave won in 8 minutes 18 (almost 7mph - uphill!), with Pat 2nd (8.43) well clear of Mick (9.07) who was nearly caught on the line by Russell (9.09). Then came a tiring Colin Lancaster (9.37), a tired Guy (9.43), Tom (10.03) [having quickly changed out of his christening gear - not his chistening!] and Nicky (10.19), 'fresh' from Gord's Classic the previous evening. Rachel was 10th, not quite able to catch Elizabeth Villiers (from Essex, where they don't have hills), in 11.22, well ahead of her practice times. Jane Mapp was next (13.04), ahead of Rachel's sister, Becky, who gallantly completed the race (no doubt muttering under her breath, 'never again!'). Summer Off-road Race 2 - Kinnersley (8 July) Again over 100 runners competed, again we visited Kinnersley orchards after heavy rain, but the going was generally good. First point of note: Stacey won (31.36), beating Matt James by 9 seconds! Well done, Stacey, especially since cross country isn't his favourite event. Nigel M again had a really good race, finishing 8th (34.12) just ahead of Dave Ameghino (11th, 34.28) who also had an excellent run. Young Dave R (16th, 35.48) just beat Jon (17th, 35.49) and Simon P (19th, 36.04). Vince Playdon, in his first outing (?) for Croft, came in 23rd (36.36), narrowly beating Gavin (25th, 37.04). Neil Powell, also running for Croft for the first time, was 35th (38.26). Suzanne, Croft's A team lady, finished just ahead (48th, 39.13) of a fast finishing Ashley (49th, 39.15); then came Gary (54th, 39.49), Guy (56th, 40.04), Neil T (61st, 40.44) and Steve ( 63rd, 40.51). Nicky was second Croft lady (69th, 41.27) with Tom (70th, 41.27) on her heels. Rachel (89th, 45.44) finished amongst a flurry of ladies and Bryan (94th, 46.59); Catherine completed the Croft D team. The A team were again 2nd, thus consolidating their position, but with our strongest runners competing we might even get a first place next time! LEINTHALL STARKES 5 - Race 3 - (9 JUNE 2009)
The 3 rd. and final race on the road of the 2009 Handicap Series was held in favourable conditions which was reflected in the setting of 6 P.B.’s. Sporting a nifty new G.P.S. watch, Nicky stormed across the line in first place and managed to knock a huge 1 min. 13 secs. from her P.B. This suggests that on previous occasions she had got lost and the new watch is a sound investment. Nicky is now re-discovering her form after a lengthy layoff. Bryan was next over the line and celebrated knocking 18 secs. off his own V.65 record. This may well be the shortest-lived record on the Croft Ambrey books as 46 seconds later Guy (in his first handicap race as a V.65) sliced an enormous 4 mins. 39 secs. from Bryan’s mark. Break that one El Presidente. Jon completed the top 3 with his best time of the season as he fights his way back to full fitness. Rachel recorded an impressive improvement on her best time, but the performance of the night (and the winner of the President’s discretionary award) came from Stacey who set his third consecutive P.B. to climb to No. 5 on the list of the all-time fastest runners over the course in its 21 year history. Stacey is in a rich vein of form this year as he sets P.B.’s at every distance he races over. Long may it continue. The handicap series now moves on to 3 races in Croft Woods, with the next being held on Tues. 14 th. July at 7.00 P.M. For fastest Leinthall Starkes times, click here Man v Horse 13th June 2009 - Tom Another hot day, the third in a row, for this race, billed as 22 miles but actually just under 20! A good local turnout mostly from runners having a final long run before the Three Peaks accompanied by a combined 'Croft Pacers' relay team consisting of Nicky, Suzanne and Mandy Evans.
This year the first individual runner was just over 8 minutes behind the winning horse who with rider Geoff Allen completed the demanding course in 2 hours 11 mins 43 secs.
Of the 'local' contingent Glyn Williams came in 23rd runner in 2:50:52, Dan Barnett 25th 2:52:54, Gary Pearson 29th 2:56:01, the Ladies relay team came in an excellent 3rd place in 3:03:14, Chris Good 48th 3:05:50, Gary Gunner 97th(3rd o/60) 3:26:00, Dave Lloyd 99th 3:27:01, Ian Price 107th 3:28:32, Phil Jones 121st 3:29:34, Tom Davies 125th 3:33:21, Aidie Brown struggled around in 143rd place 3:41:52 following illness and may use his jockey skills next year as an easier option.
Nicky, Suzanne, Mandy and Gary G all took home trophies and everyone, apart from the winning runner who threw down his trophy after the presentation! appeared to enjoy this unique event over the beautiful Mid Wales countryside
Summer Off-road series: Race 1 - Monkhall Farm (June 17) A record turnout of 105 runners, including 17 Croft members; and a record 2nd place for Stacey, who pushed Matt all the way and was finally only 2 seconds behind. Then came 3 more in the first 10: Dan (6th - 30.39), Simon N (7th - 30.42) and Nigel Mason (9th - 30.56). Patrick, Dave A and Jon filled 20th-22nd places (32.43, 32.55 and 33.00). Suzanne, recovered somewhat from her shin splints,was 3rd lady in 41st place (36.08), ahead of Gary G (43rd - 36.12), Guy (46th - 36.31) and Tom (54th - 36.58). Nicky was second counting lady (71st - 39.18), Dave Rouse snr hobbled over the line 81st (41.06), just ahead of Steve who had set off a couple of minutes after the race was under way. Bryan (94th - 45.11) achieved his aim (just), of finishing ahead of Kim (95th - 45.38) and Catherine (97th - 46.04). Kim is steadily advancing up the field. Our first team was second, just behind Couriers. Full results on the Results page. Committee meeting - 8 June 1. Multi-events: Sunday July 5th (1pm), followed by (5pm?) Summer Social - Lucton School (please bring food and thermos[es], and chairs if so desired) 2.£50 donated to both Riding for the Disabled, and West Mid Air Ambulance (Shobdon Wood 6 proceeds) 3.Duathlon ( Kingsland ) August 6th ( 19.00) 4. Dave G to be male club captain (winter cross country), Nicky female captain. 5. Nicky to update the contact details for members. 6. Club gazebo (with walls) to be purchased, and logo printed on sides. Stretton Hills Fell Race - 6 June A very wet day, after a very wet previous day, but underfoot the 5 mile course over the Stretton Hills was tough without being too treacherous underfoot. 198 men set out, and all returned intact. The winner, Rob Hope, of Pudsey and Bramley, obviously found the course to his liking, getting round in 44.37. Dan had a good run too, 63rd, in 56.29, and Nigel M also, breaking the hour by 36 seconds, 87th. Gary P, newly promoted to over 40, was 114th in 1hr 02.27. No doubt he kept himself going with memories of running in the heat of Mauritius. Gary G finished strongly, 1st Croft over 60, and 153rd overall, 6th over 60, in 1hr 08.21. Guy, was 162nd, 6th over 65, in 1hr 10.02 and Tom 178th, 11th over 60 ( 1hr 14.59). The finishing line was certainly a very welcome sight! Malvern Half Marathon 7th June - by Stacey A well-organised event, with three different races taking place, the half marathon, a 5K spring run, and a 1K chicken run, predominantly aimed for children and adults with special needs. Magic Roundabout - May 31 What a glorious day and glorious scenery! Even a comedy routine from the race director at the start. 154 runners turned out this year, and from the start it was a fast downhill for over a kilometer, levelling off before the first climb around 4km. The going was mostly excellent, soft dry grass with a short section of metalled road. As we reached the top of the last rise we could hear the somewhat sombre thumping of the samba drums at the finish. Matt James won in 39.21, with just a 20 second cushion, from Mike Ballantyne.Glyn W ran very well to finish in 8th (42.50). Simon P was first first-claim Croft runner to finish: 18th (45.01). Dave P, 24th, was a little way behind in 46.05. Guy was 38th (48.15), Gary 44th (48.52), Suzanne 55th (50.23), Tom (64th) a whisker in front of Frank (51.22, and 51.25), and Nicky on her way back to full fitness, 77th (53.21). Sudden summer running! Crocodile 8 ( May 24 ) - Rachel N
Out of a total 72 women running the race: Out of a total 142 men running: County Relays - May 20th On a drizzly evening, 17 teams turned out, including 5 from Croft, to compete around the top orchard at Westhope. The senior men fielded 2 teams, finishing 1st and 3rd; Dan made a great start, so that the A team was first from start to finish, but that required a storming run from Nigel Mason ( 2nd fastest of the night ) and determined run by Dave R to hold off the ever closing Matt James, who really had the bit between his teeth (and his Tshirt round his neck). Dave A had a really good leg for the B team. The women's over 45 team (Nicky, Karen and Rachel) fought really hard all the way, and were rewarded with winners' medals. The men's over 40 team was completed with the late addition of Frank (over 50), but nevertheless held on to their lead, established by Nigel M on the first leg, and maintained by Dave P on leg 2 and a gritty run from Frank on the anchor leg. The over 50 men's team never looked like catching Couriers - Guy finished 38 seconds behind Steve Herington on leg 1 and although both Gary and Neil ran well, we were unable to make up the ground. A very enjoyable, and successful, evening which has revived the relay event. Fastest leg times to be found under 'Results' St Michaels Hospice Hereford half marathon - May 17th Despite the awful weather, a record breaking field of over 500
runners entered this year's St Michael's Hospice Hereford Half Marathon
which took place at Hereford Racecourse. Croft placings: 2nd S.Morgan 1:18:07; 28th D.Rouse jnr 1:26:41; 37th D.Ameghino
1:29:11; Stacey LEINTHALL STARKES 5 Race 2 - 5th. MAY 2009 1. Catherine Percival 43.44
At the front of the field, Catherine ran a lonely solo run as she
knocked over 3 and a half mins. off last month's time. Richard and
Suzanne were, predictably, next home as their starting times were
based on an average of last year's times and they have both improved
considerably over the past 12 months. Richard sliced an enormous
2 mins. 37 secs. from his P.B. and Suzanne, despite her dislike
for road running, upgraded her time by 1 min. 22 secs. to register
the 7th. fastest ever female time in an event which has been going
for over 20 years. 3 more debutants on the traditional course again illustrated the
healthy state of the club at present. Sorbrook challenge 10k May 10th - Stacey This tough 10k, (with two long steep climbs) starts near the Crematorium
in Croesyceiliog, Cwmbran. This year's race also incorporated the
East Wales 10k championships. Teifi 10 April 12th - Stacey Organised by Sarn Helen running club, the race starts and finishes
at the rugby club in Lampeter. Run mostly on quiet country lanes.
Atlantic College 10k March 22nd - Stacey This race hosted the Welsh Championships and also the inter-regional
championships, Representing East Wales, I managed to finish 31st
in 35:28, 5th in my age group. Jon Wills won the race in 30:24. Shobdon Wood 6 - April 19th After a cool start to the day, the sun came out for the race. 102 finished the course, and 107 paid their entry fee. With competition from other local races numbers were a bit down this year, but there were still some new faces, one being Worcester AC's Chris Wilson who pushed Matt James into 2nd place, and created a new course record ( 32.13 ). Dan had a great race to finish 7th (36.44); Dave Rouse was 9th (38.20) and Richard 11th (38.58), bringing them home first men's team. Nigel was close behind in 12th (39.38), Patrick was 17th (40.40) just ahead of Dave Ameghino (40.59). Simon P showed Croft's present strength in depth, seventh club runner, in 41.21. Then came Ashley (23rd, 41.43). First lady was Suzanne, adding another trophy to her cupboard, finsihing 28th overall in 43.01. Stuart Austin, another useful new Croft member, was 31st, in 44.08, with Gary G continuing to run well, 34th (44.27) Neil was 46th (46.54) and Brent Lowson (technically completing the 'D' team) 67th (51.49). Rachel was our second lady ( 81st overall, 56.36) ahead of Kim ( 95th, 63.49). So a good day out: 1st lady, 1st men's team, sunny weather and over 100 runners. London Marathon - April 26, by Dave Powell After winning the club place this year, I have been pounding the
roads for the past 4 months in preparation for this year's London
Marathon. On the whole training went well apart from not being able
cope with as many speed sessions as I would have liked but at least
I got some good slow long runs in. I was aiming to beat 3.30 but
the warm sunshine that greeted us on Blackheath was a bit of a concern.
It only took me 1 minute to cross the start line and I was running
at the right pace after the first mile. My only other marathon was
in 2000 which I didn't enjoy too much so I was determined to pace
myself better this time. I made sure I took on plenty of water and
lucozade and took a gel every 5 miles. There is hardly anywhere
on the course without a big crowd cheering the runners on, the noise
is constantly in your head , but this year I appreciated it more
than I did in 2000. I managed to keep a steady pace throughout and
avoided hitting "the wall " this year. As I got onto the
Mall I even managed a sort of sprint finish, although it probably
didn't look much like one! I crossed the line in 3.27.21, 10 minutes
faster than 2000 so well chuffed. THE RESULTS OF THE SHOBDON WOOD 6 ARE UNDER 'RESULTS' (click on 'Events', then 'Results' ). Sorry about the formatting, they'll appear as a pdf in a couple of weeks. Congratulations to Vicky and Gary, on the birth of their daughter, Poppy! LEINTHALL STARKES 5 Race 1 - 14th April 2009 1. Stacey Morgan 28.49 * ( P.B. by 04 secs. ) A good turnout for the first event of the 2009 Handicap Series
which also acted as the It was a lovely day to have the race with both the weather and
the atmosphere being warm. Compared with last year there was a smaller
field of runners with 40 in total. This meant that within the first
200 metres you were running single file. The first 2kms are through
the streets of Presteigne, being cheered on by the few enthusiastic
locals. Then the next 5kms are on relatively, flat winding lanes
that keep you interested. The last 3kms are on the main road entering
Presteigne, which is a long, monotonous straight road where you
can see every runner in the distance. In contrast to last year,
the sun was shining: perfect running conditions, but I was still
glad to see the finish. The Croft contingent included me (Suzanne),
Bryan Markham, Dave Rouse (Jr) and Neil Taylor. The results were:
Suzanne 15th (2nd Female) 42.08; Dave Rouse 16th 42.08; Neil Taylor
24th 44.51; Bryan 32nd (1st MV65) 49.52. The race was won by Luke
Mason 33.43, 2nd Dave Davies 35.41 and 3rd Richie Richards 35.50.
It was a good, unchallenging course that I would recommend to others
for the friendly atmosphere. Simon's sponsored triathlon Simon N is raising money for St Michael's hospice, by doing a triathlon on August 2nd: 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile cycle and then a marathon run! To sponsor him, go to: www.justgiving.com/simonnorwoodironman Carding Mill Canter - March 7 If ever there was a misnomer! Four steep hills, almost gale force wind on top, and steep descents. The only opportunity for 'cantering', for those with any spare energy, was over the last few hundred metres. Andi Davies (Mercia) skipped round in 42.37, nearly a minute ahead of 2nd placed clubmate, Roland Stafford. Mick Ligema was 25th (53.08), and Russell 29th (53.24). Guy finished (56th, 58.56) a whisker in front of Gary P (60th, 59.18), with Tom 81st ( 1.05.55): Croft provided the over 60 1-2-4. 99 completed the course, and one pulled out. South Shropshire Circular - February 28 Richard ran with Russell on this LDWA long 'run' - 50 or so runners, with the remainder (about 150) walking the route. The self navigating 27.6 mile course followed the upper valleys of the Clun and Teme, along lonely border country and the tracks of the Kerry Ridgeway and Glyndwr's Way. There was about 4200 ft of climb (including Beacon Hill), with a climb up to the Offa's Dyke Path and back to the finish at Newcastle. Richard (who gallantly stayed with Russell who was struggling towards the end ) finished in 4hrs 52, about 10 minutes behind the winner. I believe he then ran another long distance race the next day! Muddy Woody 6(.8) It was a very sociable start to the Muddy Woody 6, as near 300
runners began along a narrow track and queued up to tackle the tracks
through the woods. Dan, Dave, Suzanne and Nicky were way up front.
Kim, nursemaiding me through my first attempt, began with me in
the last quarter of the field. Kim was an old pro. darting - even
'flitting' - past runners in the early stages of the race to open
up some space, leaving me scrambling to keep up. I now know every shade, texture, and consistency of mud there is, and while the famous song calls it 'glorious mud' when you've seen 5 miles of the stuff, you've seen it all! Rachel Results: Dan Barnett 0:49:56 (1st Lady Helen Fines 0:51:01) 2nd Lady, Suzanne 0:56:37 NB Full results on Results page Titterstone Clee and Long Mynd Valleys (Feb 7/8) - Tom D. Three Croft runners completed the two races on 7 and 8 February that comprise the 'Shropshire Weekend'. Both races were made more interesting and more difficult by the lying snow, Gary G and Tom running into drifts of more than 2ft on 'Guy's' route up Clee Hill. The quickest way of descending on the Sunday race was to sit down and hope that you avoided rocks and gorse bushes! Richard had good runs in both races, coming an excellent 6th overall on the combined scores, Gary also excelled in the snow, coming in 1st over 60 and 19th overall for the 2 races. Patrick took part in just the Clee Hill race and came an excellent 15th, despite descending carefully due to his old ankle injury. Clee Hill results: 10th Richard (25.19), 15th Patrick (26.27), 35th (1st over 60) Gary (29.51), 43rd Tom (3rd over 60) (33.52). Race was won by Tim Werrett in 21.12 and 50 runners completed the course. Long Mynd Valleys: 53rd Richard (2.23.01), 114th (3rd over 60) Gary (2.46.40), 166th Tom (7th over 60) (3.13.54). Andrew Davies won in 1.52.38, and 179 finished within the cut-off time of 3hrs 30. Presteigne Cross Country - Feb 1st A cold easterly, the day before the snow came. Ladies ran the same course, men had an extra loop in the woods. Suzanne, already county Senior and Junior champion, reinforced her triumph , even if having to settle for 2nd place behind Clara Evans (under 17). She ran 32 seconds faster than last year, whereas Nicky managed to knock 48 seconds off last year's time, finishing in 8th. Karen ran the course for the first time (as did Kim and Rachel), finishing in a very respectable 22nd (34.34). Kim ran a blinder, chasing Rachel (24th - 35.20) but not quite catching her (25th - 35.42). The ladies finished 2nd team, out of 12. Stacey led the men home in 10th (48.22), with Richard 14th (50.07) and then Nigel Misselbrook 22nd (52.04) just ahead of Dan 23rd (52.09). This put the A team in 3rd place. Dave George is still trying to shake off an injury, but still managed 30th (53.59). Jimmy ran well to finish 39th (58.14); Tom ran strongly (44th 59.11) to beat Guy (46th - 59.55), Neil (47th -60.10) and Gary (48th - 60.19). Brian Davies appeared in time to run and to be the only over 65 to finish, since chairman Bryan took a wrong turning and a shortcut! What an awards ceremony for Croft! First lady (Suzanne), 3rd senior lady (Kim), 2nd O.40 for Rachel, 2nd O.45 (Nicky) and 2nd team; for the men: Neil 3rd O.50, Tom 2nd and Gary 3rd O.60, Bryan 1st O.65, and 3rd team. Salvers were presented to Tom and brother Brian for having competed in the cross country league every year since it started.
Ladies' vet team - Second in the County Championships Monkhall Farm Cross Country - Jan 11th The first 'mild' day since late November: but the biting wind, sticky conditions on hard frozen subsoil made it a tough course in places. Finishing up a hill didn't help! It was good to see again faces that have been absent for a while, largely because of injury: Nigel Misselbrook returned after maybe a 2 year gap, Daren and Dave George reappeared after lengthy injury breaks, and Guy too. Tom and Nicky were recovering from illness sustained over Christmas. So, where were all the fit runners? Suzanne had an excellent race, judged to perfection. Although having to count as a Junior she in fact was the first senior lady (in the cross-country league, where age is no bar), and also secured the county Junior Lady title, winning in 32.47, ahead of Lisa Quinn (33.02). It will be quite some time since a Croft runner held a county title! Nicky fought hard to finish 10th (36.32), with Rachel not far behind in 14th (40.36), and Karen almost in sight (16th, 41.40), putting the Croft ladies team 2nd. Kim also stuck in there, finishing in 46.28. Matt James won the men's race (45.10), by a mere 9 seconds, from Christian Jones. Stacey was 9th (48.03), Dan 14th (49.57) just ahead of Richard (16th, 50.15) and Nigel Misselbrook (19th, 50.34). Dave George had a fine return to racing ( 23rd, 51.39). Gary G also did well to keep Steve Herington more or less in his sights (41st, 56.57). Neil ran well, finishing in 46th (58.26). Then came Guy (50th, 59.48) closely followed by Tom (51st, 59.56) and Daren (54th, 61.41). Bryan, the only category winner in the men's race, was 66th (73.04). The A team was 4th, and 4th overall but only 7 points behind 2nd placed Couriers. The B team is 10th, the C team didn't trouble the scorer! Full results on the Results page. Committee Meeting Jan 8 The four club championship races were chosen ( more details later): First Leinthall Starkes handicap race (April); Shobdon summer off-road race (August); Stretton Hills Fell race (June 6th); Knill 2 Rivers Dash (September) Winter Social to be March 7th at the Corners Inn, Kingsland. AGM to be 1st May. Boxing Day at Croft 11am start for the annual Luctonian trophy race. As a club we are allocated an entry to the London Marathon: first choice goes to those who have applied for entry and have been refused, secondly to those club members who would like to compete. Please let Tom know if you fall into either category - he would like to make a decision on Boxing Day. Mortimer 10 - December 14 Only 7 Croft runners, on quite a pleasant day, after rain the day before. Dave Moss was first club runner home in 53rd place (89.31). Suzanne again showed her class, second Croft runner home and second lady, 64th overall, in 91.22. Jimmy was next, 114th (97.48) just ahead of Nicky, who was 14th lady and 117th (97.59). Four really good runs. Patrick, returning from injury, was 123rd (98.49), Dave Powell, also back after a break, 146th (101.26), Tom 148th (101.45) and Gary G 160th (103.38) Cardington Cracker - December 7 Tom and Gary G ran this with 250 other hardy fell runners from as far as the Peak District and North Wales, on a frosty, slippery course. Andy Davies was first, in 1hr 12mins 14 seconds, Tom not far behind ( 2nd, but in the over 60 category!) in 1.52.12, and Gary, having fallen during the race, came in 190th, in 2.00.33. Croft Castle Cross Country ( Nov 30) Race 3 A bitterly cold start, frosted ground and a bit foggy. During the race, the fog lifted (I gather there were great views from the top) and the sun came out, but there were still a lot of chilled people about. The men were quite depleted: 9 runners only, with nearly as many ladies (7). Probably the first time ever that Croft ladies fielded 2 teams! Suzanne was again ( narrowly) beaten by young Clara Evans, but ran faster than last year, as did Nicky ( 7th - behind Alison this time!). Cei made up the A team, doing really well on a tough first outing to finish 13th; the team was 3rd, 2nd overall. Rachel (24th) and Kim were back (36th), with Karen Preston, like Cei, running the course for the first time, finishing in a very creditable 28th. The men were mostly slower than last year (even Matt, by about 3 minutes): Stacey (8th, just behind Simon N), Richard 13th, Dave M 17th and Simon P 23rd. The A team did well to finish 3rd and remain 3rd overall.Next was Tom ( 2nd over 60) in 42nd, only just behind Steve Herington; Neil did well, coming in next, Gary was 52nd, Brian D ( 26th consecutive Croft race?) 66th ( 1st over 65 ) and Bryan 73rd, returning to this particular race for the first time for many years. Full results can be downloaded from the 'Results' page. The second Elan valley 10 mile race - Nov 22nd Briedden Hills Fell Race 12th October. For full results, see 'Results' page (go via 'Events') This event starts in Blaenafon and finishes in Cwmbran stadium,
and must be one of the quickest courses around, the first few miles
are downhill, but you have to be careful not to go off too fast
else you'll have nothing left for the last few miles. October 12th Bridgend xc (gwent league) - Stacey Not only was it the East Wales xc champs it was also the final
selection race for the Welsh masters event in November. Having finished
2nd in the first selection race at Caernarfon, I had a reasonable
chance of making the team. I'd missed the second one at Swansea
through illness so had to make this one count, However I had a terrible
run, no go in my legs at all, and finished way down in 69th place.
Even on a good day I would have only finished in the thirties such
was the level of competition. Holme Lacy Cross Country - 19 October 18 club members turned out, on a mild relatively (!) dry day, and made up 2 ladies teams ( unheard of! ), and three mens'. Stacey ran, though feeling unwell, and helped steer the A team to a comfortable 3rd place, behind Couriers, who we would have beaten on a good day. The ladies' A team was also 3rd, only 3 points behind the leaders, Couriers. Suzanne was 1st lady, but was narrowly beaten by a slip of a girl, Clara Evans, 14, of Hereford and County, so was actually placed 2nd female; she finished in 33.58, 28 secs behind the winner, but still a magnificent result. Nicky was not far behind, in 5th ( 35.58 ) - also a great run. The ever improving Rachel made up the A team ( 23rd, 42.14 ). Catherine (33rd, 48.48), Karen Preston (new member, welcome!) was 37th (56.27) and the public spirited Kim, who gave away possibly 5 minutes to help a youngster who'd lost a shoe, and her self control, in the mud, came in 34th (59.40). Stacey was 1st man, in 12th (48.48), crossing the line with Catherine, closely followed by Richard (14th, 49.36), Dan (16th, 50.08), Dave R (18th, 50.49) and Dave G (19th, 51.02) - great runs by all! Simon P was a little further back in 22nd (51.28). Newcomer, Kenny Styles, had an excellent debut - 30th (54.16). Tom finished strongly in 41st ( 2nd over 60, 57.33), ahead of Jimmy ( 46th, 58.26). Gary (62nd, 62.02), Neil ( 65th, 62.28) and Bryan (79th, 72.47) completed the club turnout. The unfortunate Jon badly sprained his ankle, again, and hobbled off to casualty, as did Mick Ligema, with a badly gashed forehead from an overhanging branch. Full results will appear on the Results page, as a pdf. (NB go to 'Events', and then click on 'Results') 2Rivers Dash, Presteigne -4 Oct Great turnout by Croft runners, who made up 30% of the total runners.
Excellent run by Stacey in second, only just behind Matt. Then Richard
showed his impressive form, coming home 5th, just in front of young
Dave (6th), Simon P (7th - well done!), and Dave G (8th). Dave P
was 12th, and Jon, on his return from injury, a fine 16th, only
just managing to pip Tom (now over 60 - second in his category).
Suzanne was 19th, and first lady - excellent! Gary G 20th, Nicky
25th and Bryan running probably the longest race he's managed since
returning to running after injury, 29th. Only 39 turned out in the
rain, for what must have been a very wet course. Croft won the team
race, ahead of Couriers. CROFT WOODS HANDICAP 9.09.08 1. Kim Wood 34.50 (P.B. by 1min. 02secs.) Lots of sticky mud on the course made the going tough and tricky,
so it was remarkable that any P.B.s were set, but 3 runners managed
to plough through the slippery conditions to beat their previous
best performances over the course. HANDICAP SERIES 2008 -FINAL POSITIONS
For best Croft Woods times, click here, For best Leinthall Starkes times, click here
(The Alps around Mont Blanc [France, Italy, Switzerland]) Distance: 166kms Terrain: 33,000ft of climb Time allowed: 46 hours Start Date: 29th August 2008 Race History: Completed the course last year in 40 hours/ it’s been running for 6 years. Cost: 90 Euros Flights: We went Easy jet and got a bargain. Hotels/Hostels: Is out of season in Chamonix so only around £30.00per person per night. The North Face Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc – (UTMB) 166kms The start of the race was at 6.30pm from the centre of the French Alps town of Chamonix. There were around 10,000 people at the start; with over 2000 runners competing. The North Face put on 3 races this year, apart from the UTMB there was also the CCC which was 98kms and the Petite Trotte (teams of 3) and which was 220kms)! Vicky and I arrived in Chamonix a few days before the start and were met by the rest of the support team: Mum, Graham, Ivy and Bryony. The whole place was bustling with runners (all sporting last year’s t-shirts, a must if competed last year)! The North Face put on an excellent supporters bus which only cost 20 Euros. The main difference to last year was that Chamonix was in a mini heat wave, the pleasant temperatures of last year had been replaced by HOT sun, even at 6.30pm the day was still hot.From Chamonix the race first takes you to the French towns of Les Houches, La Charme, St Gervais and Les Contamines, all of which give you a really big reception with large crowds and local bands. Last year I was feeling very strong at this stage of the race but when I reached 31kms and the Les Contamines food checkpoint I was feeling a bit queasy! Not good as I was only a fifth of the way through the course. The terrain so far had been a bridleway path through woods with one 1000m climb in, and I knew there was much worse to come. I wasn’t alone and the medics were putting the sickness down to the heat. The next major stop to get to was Les Chapieux which is right at the bottom of the Croix du Bonhomme mountain standing at 2479m high. I arrived at Les Chapieux (50kms) at 4.05am. The next 28kms of the race takes you over two mountains Cole de la Seigne and Arete du Mont Favre both sit at around 2500m. After summiting these two you then get to the Italian checkpoint Courmayeur. I was very happy to get to Courmayeur as this is the half way point more or less, I was less happy with the fact that I had been sick a couple of times in the night, no sleep on top of my running fatigue was playing on my mind and I was ready to quit. Luckily for me my supporters ignored my pleas and pushed me on dismissing my sickness claims!! If you are thinking of doing the UTMB having supporters is a great, many of the people who drop out are there alone and simply do not have the people to push them along. The goal for Saturday was simply to keep on going until you hit Switzerland and the main rest station of Champex-lac. You start from 1190m at Courmayeur, climb up to 1989m back down to 1769m and then ascend the scramble path that takes you up the Grant Col Ferret at 2537m then it is a rocky downhill with one final climb to Champex-lac. I left Courmayeur at 11.06am (Saturday) and arrived at Champex at 12.44am (Sunday) unlike last year I felt pretty strong during this part of the race, all sickness fears behind me and although completely knackered I could begin to think of the finish line. Champex to Chamonix is another 43kms which seems quite close when you have already completed 123kms! After a hot meal, kit change and 30 minute power nap at Champex I was on my way to the finish. I had begun to hear rumours of another mountain at the end of the race before we hit Chamonix, my supporters who had been talking to some other Brits confirmed this! At this point I wasn’t overly concerned by yet another mountain ~ the impact of this final trial was yet to come. Leaving Champex at 2.02am (Sunday) I was looking for a steady jog in, I had teamed up with a running partner called Patrick from the UK to help while away the long painful hours. All was going to plan until we hit the final two mountains as there are two close together Tete aux vents and La Flegere (as they are both close together) from Vallorcine at 1260m up to Tete aux Vents at 2130m was a tough hot scramble there was only a single track so we were also pretty stuck in our tracks as far as speed, whilst scrambling up I saw last year’s time slip by and now just needed to concentrate on getting over the finish line within the 46 hours. Unfortunately the downhill into Chamonix was not good as by this time my quads had decided they didn’t like downhill! On the flat of the town Patrick and I gave it a last push and both got over the line in just over 44 hours. We all stayed around for the end of the race to see how many could get through in the next two hours, we knew lots of people wouldn’t make it as we knew how many were still on the last mountains. At 46 hours the checkout was strictly closed and anyone who came in afterwards had not succeeded. 53% of the participants completed. General feelings after: As last year The North Face put on a fantastic race, there is no possible way of getting lost as the course is very well marked. There is excellent food and drink stations and a great medical team, the anti sick tablets worked well! The supporters get to most of the checkpoints for a bargain 20euros. Amazing scenery.
Brecon 10 August 3rd - Stacey Morgan This was the 25th running of this event, and the 400 runners were
greeted with ideal weather conditions. Caernarfon 10k August 31st - Stacey Morgan This race incorporated the Welsh championships and the Inter regional
championships; I was representing East Wales for the first time.
Lauterbrunnen Half Marathon - by Dave Powell I rounded off a week's holiday with the Inferno Half Marathon from the village of Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland to the top of the Schilthorn mountain, which looks out over to the Eiger. The morning started promisingly with blue skies as we set off with a steady climb of 2772ft up to the village of Murren at the 12k mark. We were greeted by a great alpine band playing in the village before the race started to get serious. After managing to run nearly all the first section, the second part of the race climbed a further 4363 ft so it was all I could do to walk up. The final 500m was almost rock climbing and crossed one narrow section with a steep drop down either side. By this time it was snowing but luckily I finished before it got too bad. The afternoon triathlon was forced to abandon the final section due to the blizzards! I finished in 3hrs 09mins in 155th place, out of 349 runners. A good value race with all the runners receiving a quality t-shirt (Just what you need to protect you from hypothermia, 7000ft up a mountain!) , cable cars back to the valley floor, a big bowl of pasta , a 20 minute post race massage, drink stations with gels and isotonics every 2/3 km and a decent goody bag for 30 euros. A really enjoyable race but I must learn the art of walking uphill fast in order to improve. Duathlon, Kingsland -August 19 8 competitors, and Kim and Nicky who, preferring not to cycle, jogged around the course as duathletes sped past them! Young Dave shot off from the start, determined to hang on to his trophy, leaving Richard H, Pat and Richard J in his wake; Guy and Tom were just visible through the dust. Dave kept a comfortable cushion throughout the cycling, though Richard H pursued hard. Richard J saw discretion as the better part of valour, and withdrew after the cycling, to Guy's chagrin, since he only decided to do the 3 cycle laps ( instead of the mountain bikers' 2 ) to challenge Richard over the 2nd running lap. Dave completed the circuits in 54 minutes 12, followed by Richard H in 56.27 and Pat in 57.41. Guy followed in 61.14. Tom completed his mountain bike course in 54.50. Richard H achieved the fastest cycle lap of the evening ( 7 min 12 ), and Dave the fastest run ( on his second lap ).
Race The Train (14 miles)-Tywyn 16th August Once again a high turnout for this well known race, which this
year was celebrating its 25th anniversary. Only two Croft runners,
Dave Rouse and Dave Moss turned out for this race, possibly due
to the poor weather forecast for the weekend. This was a great pity
as the terrain, especially on the return leg, is much like that
of Bircher Common and Croft. Dave Moss 32nd 1hr 35mins 17secs More information on the race, including full results is available
at www.racethetrain.co.uk Summer off-road series: Shobdon, 14 August 2008 The A team produced a great result to finish the series in 2nd place, behind Couriers, with the B team in 7th. Stacey finished 3rd individual, behind Matt and Luke, but then came great packing from Dave Moss, Dave George, Dan and Richard ( 9 -12th). Dave Powell was a little further back in 17th, and Pat, on home ground, 26th. Suzanne though stormed back into first lady's place, 32nd overall. Tom (45th) again had the better of Jimmy (47th) and Gary (51st), and Nicky (61st) was closing on Neil (60th). Bryan (74th) held off John Cooper in the over 65 race, and Kim this time got the better of Carol Farrington, who brought up the rear. Stacey was 3rd overall, Guy 1st over 60 and Bryan 1st over 65; Suzanne was perhaps unlucky not to quite pip Lisa Quinn for 1st lady, finishing 2nd, just 6 points adrift. A great summer season, heralding a promising winter cross country. CROFT WOODS HANDICAP - 5 August 2008 Recent heavy rain had made underfoot conditions tricky and caused
the foliage to flop across the course, so it was remarkable that
so many excellent performances were produced. Senior Dave was first
across the line by a huge distance as he started to recapture some
form. Suzanne's continued improvement was expected as she sliced
a big chunk off last year's time. Richard again impressed everyone
as he registered another big P.B. as he seems to have done with
every run this summer. Rosy-cheeked Kim was rewarded for her progress
with the Chairman's discretionary award. Summer off-road series : Westhope, 30 July 2008 Full results on results page ( go to 'Events' page and click on 'Results' ). Excellent Croft turn-out - 20 runners, 4 ladies/4 teams. Stacey had his best result yet - 2nd, only 7 seconds behind Matt James, Dave George ran a magnificent 7th, 2 places ahead of the rarely sighted Dave Moss. Dan was hot on their heels in 11th, with Richard running well to finish in 14th, 13 seconds ahead of Dave Powell.Guy (19th) overtook a tiring Pat (21st) on the last hill. In his first race for Croft, Ed Henry did really well to finish 26th (top 30%). Despite her training in Spanish heat, Suzanne slipped to 5th lady, but still managed to outrun Tom (42nd), Jimmy (43rd) and Gary (44th). Neil (54th) crossed the line just ahead of Harry Franklin, with Nicky a little further back. Dave Rouse (snr) was 64th and Bryan 70th. Rachel looked still quite strong as she finished 83rd. Kim was 2nd Junior Lady. CROFT WOODS HANDICAP 15.07.08 1. Dan Barnett 23.14 (P.B. by 1.40) Another excellent turnout for the first of the off-road events
in the 6 race series. It was Dan's first showing of the season,
and his rapidly improving form made him a predictable winner whilst
slicing a huge 1min 40 secs. from his previous best of last year.
Nicky was second across the finish line with another striking improvement
by 1.31 secs. Richard, despite going AWOL when he was supposed to
start, was placed 3rd after time re-adjustment. Welcome back Mossy
with a typically impressive display. Magor Marsh 10K - Stacey Morgan 8 July Multi-events Probably the biggest ever turn-out: 19 competitors, ranging from 10 to 68 in age, with 7 ladies. We were blessed with a fine evening, even if it was getting chilly by the time we finished at 10.15! Pat was once again overall victor, even now as a veteran! Suzanne claimed the ladies trophy, by one narrow point from Kim. Gary competed well throughout, and thoroughly deserved the veteran's award. The table below lists only club members: points awarded in each event listed before the distance/time.
April 24th Hereford 5k race 1 S.Morgan 10th 17:12 May 14th Rhayader 5k race 1 S.Morgan 2nd 17:06 May 15th Hereford 5k race 2 S.Morgan 5th 16:50 May 18th Hereford half marathon 300 runners took part in this event; Matt James led from the start
to take the honours in 1:18:09 S.Morgan 2nd 1:19:58 May 28th Rhayader 5k race 2 S.Morgan 6th 17:03 June 5th Hereford 5K race 3 S.Morgan 6th place 16:41 (4th place in series) June 15th Hereford 10 mile S.Morgan 4th 59:19 (3rd in county champs) June 22nd Malvern 1/2 Marathon 700 runners turned up for this event, starting and finishing in
the showground. S.Morgan 3rd 1:20:18 Herefordshire summer off-road series - Kinnersley 2 July After a heavy downpour the course around the orchard was sticky in parts and we ran in light rain, but to those of us (not me!) recently returned from doing battle with the elements on top of Snowdon it was a pleasant evening! Stacey had another excellent run, closing the gap with Matt from over a minute in the first race, to 19 seconds, with Luke 2nd, between them. Stacey was 3rd (30.49), Simon again 5th, a minute behind but Dave G moved up from 15th (Monkhall Farm) to 11th (33.21), followed by Pat (18th, 35.04) who outran Dave Powell at the finish (19th, 35.08); Dave is 3rd over 45. Guy, first over 60, was 31st (37.01) with Tom apparently not suffering after effects of the 3 Peaks, just behind (36th, 37.53). Gary G (39th, 38.16) just got the better of Suzanne (40th, 38.19) who had to settle for 3rd lady this time, but is 2nd overall. Neil was narrowly beaten by a pack of younger Wye Valley runners but still had spring in his stride as he came home 46th (38.56). Alison was first over 45, 50th in 39.19. Nicky still gamely running with an injury, was 61st (40.58), ahead of Steve in his first crosscountry in a Croft vest (?), who just managed to get the better of two ladies on the line (67th, 43.06). Dave R returned to running (and improved on last year's time/position!) finishing 74th (44.23) just ahead of Bryan (77th, 45.39) - 2nd over 65, by 2 places, and 1 minute. Rachel was 84th (47.23), giving us three counting teams for probably the first time ever. Full results on the Results page. LEINTHALL STARKES 5 - Race 3 - 10th June 2008 1. Ashley Cooke 34.12 Herefordshire Summer off road series - Monkhall Farm - 19 June Rain before and after, but dry during the run, which once again included a water crossing! A bare 5 miles, but varied and taxing at times. Smallish Croft contingent of 10 (only 84 runners in total ), led home by Stacey in 3rd (30.21) a minute behind Matt James, and 12 seconds behind Luke Mason. Simon N was 6th (31.14), then Dave G 15th (33.16) and Jon 16th (33.54). Suzanne completed the A team, having a great race, first lady, 30th (36.54), putting the team in a creditable 3rd place. Guy was 26th (35.42), Alison 38th (37.20), with Gary G 41st (37.39) feeling the after-effects of Man v Horse - Tom, also a MvH veteran, had a good race 45th (38.01). Nicky ran, nursing her knee injury and ungallantly overtaken by two young men in the finishing straight, finishing 64th (40.30), Bryan also bravely returned to cross-country racing, 76th (43.18) finishing a little ahead of Catherine, 82nd (45.59). The B team was 11th (out of 19), but we didn't field enough males to make a 3rd team - just one short year ago we were failing to raise a single team, through lack of ladies! NB Full results on 'Results' page Crocodile 8 25/5/08 By Dave Rouse
3 Stacey Morgan Croft Ambrey M 00.53.42 Magic Roundabout - May 25, by Rachel Nelson While the emergency services were called out to the Hay festival
to pump out flood water, I was high up on the Begwyns, in the teeth
of a gale, horizontal rain and February temperatures! My family
took one look at the cars stuck in the mud at the car park gate
and dropped me off – “see you later, phone us when you
need us”! and left me to trudge the mile up to ‘HQ’
in wellies and waterproofs with my small rucksack on my back! ( Rachel finished 62nd out of 87, and 8th lady out of 19, if I remember correctly - excellent!) Hay Magic Roundabout 10K - May 25 by Dave Powell The second running of this 10K off road race in the Begwyns near Hay on Wye was again run in monsoon conditions. It was warmer than last year but the wind was stronger, so it was a real test. 89 runners took part, some of whom had camped overnight at the Hay literary festival. Saturday morning training sessions in the Radnor Hills certainly paid dividends for me as I finished 6th. It is an excellent race - it just needs a bit of sunshine. Maybe next year? Magnificent Eastnor Castle Seven 18th May 2008 - Nicky Turvey A small contingent of Croft Ambrey Runners took part in this years Eastnor Castle race. The course was really interesting, small amount of tarmac road, then paths and tracks through the woods up to the obelisk and home. Some very slippery, muddy bits which meant we all got a bit dirty but no battle scars! Ali Cooke was 2nd lady, Nicky Turvey 6th and Catherine Percival had a brilliant race and was 17th lady out of 35. The lads also did really well Darren Harris 25th closely followed by Dave Rouse junior 28th and Ashley Cooke 30th. For all finishers a memento of an engraved, half pint glass and medal. Also free doughnuts and orange juice, (Dave only had 3 doughnuts!) Caradoc Classic May 14th 121 runners on a lovely, slightly cooler, summer's evening but no time to admire the views from the top! Guy was the only Croft runner ( 45th, 1st over 60, 30min 37 ); Andi Davies won in 24.08, Roger Lamb 5th ( 1st over 40 ) in 25.03.
Royal Raid, Ile Maurice ( Mauritius ) 100km - 3 May by Gary Pearson The departure of RR100 was at the Casela Bird Park on the west coast of Mauritius, 3 May 2008, at 5am. The first part of the race was through the beautiful Yemen Nature Reserve, the track was undulating with small but steep slopes, on dry ground. I then followed a rough track onto a tarred road for 4km which led to the Black River National Park visitors centre. After 1.5km, I had a climb of 6km in the middle of the tropical forest to reach 500m higher, along a humid track at Mare aux Joncs to reach the place called Machabe. After another 8.5 km of plateau on a good surface, I reached the Jet Ranch where Vicky and other volunteers were working on a checkpoint and I was able to have a shower and a pasta meal; I had at this point completed 47 miles in very hot conditions. At least now the sun was going down. Next was tarred road for 1500m to reach a place called Petrin, then an easy flat for 2.1km then downhill for 4km to reach the Radier des Gorges, 500m lower down. Next we were told was where the runners faced the major difficulty of the Royal Raid, the already mythical Parakeet Trail: a climb of 5km with 600m of positive height, to reach Plaine Champagne at the place called Parakeet, the highest point of the race at an altitude of 720m. I reached this top and had a quick soup (cold) and some further encouragement from the checkpoint volunteers, Vicky included, who had now moved to this checkpoint; now only 20 miles to go! Leaving Parakeet I had 800m of tarred road before entering the track of 'Watook' which led into the estate of Bel Ombre with great views to the south of the island, so we were told, but as it was pitch black at this stage I couldn't tell you! I continued the 8kms descent along a wide track in the middle of the forest to reach another refreshment stop. Then followed dirt tracks through the sugar cane fields and then finally there was 800m of tarred road which led to the finish! Would I do it again? Yes, hopefully next year. Well organised with amazing views. 84 starters, 44 finished ( including me! in 19 hours and 43 minutes )
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Dave, Dave, Rachel, Martin, Gary, Jon, Simon and Frank 
