Weekend review: March 3 & 4

Saturday March 3, 2012

Paul Lewis Greenwich Meridian 10K Race

Photo: Start of the race

Cambridge Harrier's premier road running event, which was renamed this year in appreciation of the late and fondly remembered race co-organiser Paul Lewis, was honoured by the late entry of two elite runners who had just flown back from training in Ethopia. Tadele Geremew is a 2:13 marathoner and Justina Heslop has represented England on both the road and cross-country.

To mark Olympic year and the fact that the race takes place in Greenwich Park (one of the venues for this year's games) a prize of £250 was ofered to the first man or woman to break the course records (29:28 Ian Hudspith 2002 and 34:51 Andrea Green 2001). The quality of these times were underlined as no-one came close to breaking the men's record and Justina only achieved setting a new best women's time by 15 seconds as she finished 4th overall.

Tadele did not have it all his own way in the men's race as Kent AC's Jermaine Mays led for the first half of the race and took the prize for the first to the Meridian Line. However Tadele soon pushed ahead and eventually went clear by more than 90 seconds.

Photos: Eventual winner Tadele Geremew leads runner up Jermain Mays. Female winner Justina Heslop receives prize from club president Glynis Penny

Men's results

1	Tadele Geremew	Ethopia	30:52
2	Jermain Mays	Kent AC	32:29
3	Peter Tucker	Blackheath & Bromley AC	34:00

 

Women's results

1	Justina Heslop	Clapham Chasers	34:36
2	Elaine Murty	Blackheath & Bromley AC	37:02
3	Deborah Niccol	Bristol & West	38:27

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Runners Need G3 10km

The last of the 2012 G3 10km series was held at Merrow Down, Guildford. Fabien Lassonde managed a third win in the 2012 series, with Sam Gardener in second and Guy Bowles in third.

In the women's competition Tish Jones followed was first, improving from second place in the January and February events. Second place went to Sarah Rollins, one up from her third place in February. Mary Donavan was third.

2013 registration is now open. To take advantage of the early bird entry fee (until 31 March 2012) and to guarantee your place you can enter here.

Men's results

1	Fabien Lassonde	41:43,2
2	Sam Gardner	42:05,3
3	Guy Bowles	42:32,8

 

Women's results

1	Tish Jones	46:54,4
2	Sarah Rollins	47:36,9
3	Mary Donovan	51:22,8

 

Click here for full results

 

 

The Green Man Ultra

With the Green Man route shrouded in mystical tales of good and bad fortune, it was with great anticipation that 44 brave hearted competitors amassed at the starting point located at Redwood Park Hotel on Saturday 3rd March 2012.

At 8.00am the hooter set the intrepid adventurers - which included a mix of ultra runners from all over the UK and a handful of Canicross enthusiast – on their way; their dogs seeming keener than them to get pushing forward. The weather looked ominously overcast and the drizzle was threatening to make the going tough.

But this, the inaugural Green Man Ultra, was a happy day for the Green Man who delighted us with brightening sky’s and at times untypically warm weather.
The route, which can be demandingly muddy in parts, was holding firm and the two leading runners (Martin Indge & Daryl Carter) zipped through CP1 in an impressive 1hr 21 min. This was record pace.

Martin & Daryl were still tied as they departed CP 2, but even more amazing; “who’s that coming over the hill”? Just seven minutes adrift from first place was Liz Wiggins; it would have done Lewis Hamilton no harm to have witnessed Liz’s pit-stop, she’d gone before she arrived!

But the Green Man Ultra should never be taken lightly and with Martin trying to seize an opportunity and break away from Daryl, he made a costly error, going slightly off track. Even though Martin had great experience with the course, The Green Man had struck a fatal blow, resulting in Daryl securing a 20 min lead by CP3.

The chasing pack was making this into a great race, and any slips upfront could have been costly. Daryl secured his place as champion with a record time of 7hrs 8 min, Martin Indge came second with 7hrs 34 min, and David Mitchell also dipped under the 8hrs with 7hrs 59 min.

Photo: Daryl Carter, Liz Wiggins and Canicross relay team ‘Mixed up Mutts’

Liz, cruised to the ladies title, arriving fifth overall with a time of 8 hrs 21 min.

Bill Graham, with 8hrs and 1 minute, disappointed that he wasn’t inside 8 hrs, was consoled by winning the Men’s Veterans trophy. Alex Foster, Bryan Stadden and Diane Roy gained 6th, 7th & 8th places respectfully. Matthew Gillard came in as first Canicrosser in 9th position with a time of 9hrs 45 min. Canicross relay team ‘Mixed up Mutts’ - Dawn Crook-Richards, Claire Williams, Margaret Plum, and Carol Aleknavicus - were winners, with a time of 10 hrs 8 min.

Twenty-nine runners achieved a time of under twelve hours, with the last official finisher at 14 hrs 15 min. With the onset of night, all races become more challenging, and The Green Man is no different.

Canicross relay team ‘Hope’ had troubles from the outset. But credit where credit is due their perseverance was admirable. But in trying to reach CP 3, and at an expended time of 15 hrs 40 min it was concluded that they had “no-hope” and retired from the race.

Finishing in the dark though can have its benefits as in the last couple of miles of The Green Man Ultra the runners have to cross the beautifully lit Clifton Suspension Bridge.

The Romanian Chef serving soup and pasta at the finish had a beaming smile all evening; apparently he had acquired several telephone numbers, of course for outside catering purposes only.

Ultra Running would like to thank Martin at Moti Sports, Giles Heeks at OMM for stepping in at CP1, Clive Marston for helping out at CP3 and The Gaveller for recording and signing in of the new Woodwoses and Woodwights. Also our sponsors 9Bar.

The Green Man Ultra returns next year on March 2nd 2013.

Men's results

1	Daryl Carter	7hrs 8 mins
2	Martin Indge	7hrs 34 mins
3	David Mitchell	7hrs 59 mins

 

Women's results

1	Liz Wiggins		8 hrs 21 mins
2	Dawn Crook-Richards, Claire Williams, Margaret Plum, and Carol Aleknavicus	Canicross relay team ‘Mixed up Mutts’	10 hrs 8 mins

 

Click here for further information

 

 

No Walk in the Park 5k

A record field at the March race with 81 finishers on a wet drizzly Saturday morning. Once again it was Hallamshire veteran Carl Thackery winning for the third race in a row in a time of 16:46. Matlock's Josh Moody was second in 17:04 and Steve Gascoyne of Chesterfield AC won a close battle with North Derbyshire's Tim Clayton for third place.

Hallamshire also took the honours in the ladies race with Helen Grainger first in 20:16 ahead of unattached runner Fiona Alexander second in 21:05.

The oldest competitor was North Derbyshire's Brian Hampton who at age 66 is still posting good times finishing in 21:31.

Photos: Men's and ladies' 1st 2nd & 3rd

Men's results

1	Carl Thackery	Hallamshire	16:46
2	Josh Moody	Matlock	17:04
3	Steve Gascoyne	Chesterfield AC	17:10

 

Women's results

1	Helen Grainger	Hallamshire	20:16
2	Fiona Alexander	Unattached	21:05
3	Julie Cooper	North Derbyshire RC	22:07

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Kinetica Spring Ballbuster

Once again Box hill near Dorking turned into the racing ground for hundreds of competitors all battling to finish the 2012 edition of the notoriously difficult Kinetica Spring Ballbuster.

Participants set off into a healthy covering of early morning mist to begin what is known as one of the hardest duathlons on the UK racing calendar. Starting with an 8 mile run through the Surrey hills and including the infamous Zig-Zag Road, the Kinetica Spring Ballbuster is eye-catching as well as gruelling. After the first leg competitors then switch from running shoes to pedals and complete 24 miles on their bike incorporating the villainous Zig-Zags to the summit on each circuit. The final 8 mile run has been the decider of podium positions many times over the years and always guarantees to push all competitors to their limits, from the first place finisher down to the back-markers.

Photo: A misty start to the day

David Vaughan and David Freeman took off right from the gun, closely followed by Sam Wade and Nicholas Saillard who both entered T1 level. Wade, clocking the fastest transition time of the day in 51 seconds, made a speedy exit passing both Freeman and Saillard and set about trying his best to pull away as the bike leg began. In the women’s race, Victoria Gill opened up a 3 minute lead during the first run, clocking 48.33. Gemma Farrell and Sophie Alliston positioned themselves just behind the lead during the run with Manuela Maxwell hanging on not too far behind and entering T1 fourth.

With the top position in both the male and female races now looking decided barring punctures it was the race for second and third where the majority of the day’s excitement was occurring.

Despite a slight slip when dismounting in T2 Vaughan remained untroubled on the bike leg and set about powering through the final run for first place and a time of 2:38:21 – a full 12 minutes ahead of his nearest challenger. Speaking after the race, Vaughan spoke of the importance of including spring races in his training plan. “I find entering the Spring Ballbuster gives me the motivation I need to get my fitness up early on in the season and I’m delighted to get the win.” Back on course Saillard kept the pressure on Wade but it wasn’t quite enough and Wade’s determined 2:48.47 clinched second place leaving Salliard in third with a very respectable 2:50:12.

Photos: Race winners Victoria Gill and David Vaughan in action

Taking the title for a second year running, Gill (Swim for Tri) looked strong as she finished in an overall time of 2:59:41 and destroyed last year’s Ballbuster personal best by 7 minutes. “The reputation that Ballbuster carries and the fact that it is such a challenging duathlon made me want to return. This is my first race after a winter spent training so I’m pleased with how I felt and with my time today.”

A full 17 minutes behind Gill, the remaining podium positions were changing hands regularly as Maxwell managed to pull back a deficit from the first run with a fast cycle, moving ahead of Farrell and putting herself into second. As is so often the case at the BallBuster the final leg proved crucial and Farrell’s running ability moved her back into second (3:17.25). Maxwell took third place with a time of 3:19:23.

As the final competitors wound their way up the zig-zag road on their quest to the finishing line they were greeted with some spring sunshine to round off the gruelling event on a high.

Men's results

1	David Vaughan		2:38:21
2	Sam Wade	Brighton Phoenix Tri	2:48:47
3	Nicolas Saillard	Bike Science- Planet X	2:50:12

 

Women's results

1	Victoria Gill	Swim For Tri Ltd	2:59:41
2	Gemma Farrell		3:17:25
3	Manuela Maxwell	Chiltern Harriers AC-Chiltern Triathletes	3:19:23

 

Click here for full results

 

 

The Dunmow “not so” Muddy Duathlon

Dunmow Triathlon club held its third annual duathlon on a mild morning in Hatfield Forest. 140 determined athletes entered to the race which consisted of a 5km off-road run around the forest, followed by a 21km road cycle out of the forest and around the surrounding area to come back again into transition to complete the race with another 5km cross country run.

The athletes faced better conditions than over the previous 3 years as the mud around the Forest was much reduced however a shower of rain did catch out 11 athletes who crashed coming back into the Forest. Most managed to remount and complete the race but one athlete was pulled out and ended up in hospital after breaking his nose but was released later on that evening. In fact John McDowell who finished 3rd overall was one of the athletes who took a tumble. Dave Copeland won the race with a time of 01:23:17, Lientjie de Villiers was the first female athlete who completed the race in 01:33:46 in 11th place overall.

The race was a great success and all competitors and supporters enjoyed the spring like morning in the forest. Phil Elms, the chairman of the club quotes “it was a great race and positive feedback was received from all of the racers and the official from British Triathlon”. The club would also like to thank their sponsors Nuffield Healthcare from the Brentwood Hospital and The Sports Injury Clinic at Dunmow Leisure Centre who provided post-race massages to the athletes. Also thanks to the Co-Op in Dunmow who supplied the finishers with water and Flitch Bikes for sponsoring the race. Dunmow Tri would also like to thank the National Trust for enabling the club for using the forest as a picturesque situation for the race. Henry Baxley, the National Trust manager for Hatfield forest said “it was great to see the Forest being used by so many”.

Finally, on the 9th September, the club will be holding its fourth triathlon based at the Leisure Centre in Great Dunmow and utilising the beautiful Essex countryside for this popular and challenging sprint triathlon - entries are already filling up fast via www.entrycentral.co.uk!

Photos: Dave Copeland and Lientjie de Villiers, winners of the 2012 Dunmow “not so” Muddy Duathlon

Men's results

1	Dave Copland	01:23:17
2	Peter Kerry	01:27:15
3	John McDowall	01:29:50

 

Women's results

1	Lientjie de Villiers	01:33:46
2	Jayne Williams	01:34:55
3	Veronica Shadbolt	01:38:59

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Halewood 5k

The course record of the Halewood 5k was again broken this week by James Riley of Liverpool Harriers who ran a scintillatingly quick time of 15.22. This event is being increasingly used by local and regional athletes as a time trial to try and get a PB or as a measure of current fitness levels. The free of charge fresh fruit and refreshments have also gone down well afterwards!

In the mens race James Riley set a quick pace from the start and went on to win comfortably. He was followed by Rob Dewhurst in 2nd place also of Liverpool Harriers, with another local athlete Guy Roberts (Mossley Hill) in 3rd place. Such was the standard of the race today that all of the first 5 finishers in the mens event were under 17 minutes and included James Docherty (West Cheshire) and Christoper Barnes (Blackburn).

In the ladies event Charlotte Wilson (Leigh Harriers) ran an excellent time of 18.55, which is the 2nd fastest time by a female ran on this course. Liverpool Running Bugs Captain Sue O'brien achieved an excellent PB and New Club record to finish in 2nd place. Paula Dixon of local club Mossley Hill finished in 3rd Position, and she was well supported by clubmates on the day around the course.

Next weeks Halewood 5k is again being held on Saturday at 1pm. This is a free of charge event all you have to do is either register on the www.bugruns.org.uk website or arrive early before the race. There will be a 25 minute pacing group led by Michael Connor (Liverpool Running Bugs). This is a beginner friendly event with a competitive edge! Welcoming runners of all abilities.

Photos: Riley (Male Winner) and Charlotte Wilson (Female winner)

Men's results

1	James Riley	Liverpool Harriers	15.22
2	Rob Dewhurst	Liverpool Harriers	16.36
3	Guy Roberts	Mossley Hill	16.51

 

Women's results

1	Charlotte Wilson	Leigh Harriers	18.55
2	Sue O'Brien	Liverpool Running Bugs	21.09
3	Paula Dixon	Mossley Hill	23.59

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Raceways RunBreeze.com 5km Fun Run, 10km and Half Marathon

Raceways annual event, the RunBreeze.com 5km Fun Run, 10km and Half Marathon was held at the Shakespeare County Raceway.

This event raised £3,000 for the Charity Kids Run Free. Kids Run Free aims to increase and sustain sports participation by starting with kids as early as possible. We aim to spread through the Country by end of 2017 with 80 monthly locations at which 24,000 children will be running for free. Start young, stay fit. Enter online at www.kidsrunfree.co.uk

Great News: David Moorcroft is Kids Run Free’s charity patron. On March 9, 2012, at Kids Run Free Headquarters, David Moorcroft, former middle-distance and long-distance runner for England, came to see the new charity and accepted a role as Kids Run Free’s charity patron.

Kids Run Free founders, Catherine O’Carroll and Martine Verweij say they are grateful and delighted that David has found time in his busy schedule as the Chair of the West Midlands Leadership Group for the 2012 Olympic Games to help promote the Charity.

Men's 5km results

1	Kyran Hale	00:17:18
2	Steven Peters	00:20:34
3	Darryll Thomas	00:20:36

 

Women's 5km results

1	Kate Clarke	00:23:45
2	Jen Nunan	00:24:06
3	Jane Duncan	00:24:29

 

Men's 10km results

1	Toby Spencer	00:32:45
2	Chris McCarthy	00:35:53
3	Brendan Fitzgerald	00:36:53

 

Women's 10km results

1	Kate Wright	00:40:06
2	Sarah Wheeler	00:42:37
3	Alex Mold	00:43:28

 

Men's half marathon results

1	Stuart Spencer	01:09:52
2	Daniel Robinson	01:17:26
3	Stuart Hawkes	01:21:49

 

Women's half marathon results

1	Shona Crombie-Hicks	01:24:18
2	Lucy Walmsley	01:28:42
3	Michelle Parsons	01:30:08

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Sunday March 4, 2012

John Austin Half Marathon

The battle for second early in the race

With perfect conditions the day before and frankly awful weather on the Sunday, the John Austin Half Marathon turned into a war of attrition for the 398 starters. “I really felt for the runners out there today as I realised the weather was simply getting colder and colder”, said Race Director Henry Szwinto. “At races we often say the runners and marshals were amazing without giving it much thought but today they truly were.” St. John’s Ambulance also did a great job as many of the runners were clearly in trouble as they finished suffering from hypothermia.

First runner home was defending champion Ben Evans of Guildford and Godalming AC. Ben said the first part of race went well but at around 8 miles he suddenly was aware that he was in considerable difficulty and as the cold set in he was clearly delighted at his second victory as he crossed the line in a time that was well down on last year. In a much tighter race than his first win he was chased most of the way by the battle for second between Alistair Pickburn of Lymington Triathlon Club and Jake Bradley of Southampton University Athletics & Cross Country Team. Jake’s final effort to take second place was thwarted by a burst from Alistair in the last 100 meters who finished only 13 seconds down.

All 3 found the effort took it’s toll and they needed a considerable time to recover. This was Jake’s first half marathon and he was the 3rd youngest runner in the filed. No doubt he was cheered on by his colleagues from Thunderer Squadron, the Officer Cadets at Southampton University, who provided many of the marshals out on course and who did a great job of setting up the course that morning.

The women’s race was dominated by local names and was won by Vale Sesto of New Forest Runners with Chloe Woolf of Lymington Triathlon Club 2nd and Liz Young of New Forest Runners 3rd. Both Vale and Kath Bailey (2nd V40) were in considerable trouble when they finished. Vale said this was the coldest race she has ever experienced. Cheryl Foot of Basingstoke and Mid Hants AC was 4th woman overall and 1st V40.

Men's results

1	Ben Evans	Guildford and Godalming AC	1:22:33
2	Alastair Pickburn	Lymington Triathlon Club	1:22:47
3	Jake Bradley	Southampton University Athletics & Cross Country Team	1:22:52

 

Women's results

1	Vale Sesto	New Forest Runners	1:30:36
2	Chloe Woolf		1:33:01
3	Liz Young	New Forest Runners	1:36:45

 

Click here for full results in due course

 

 

Gainsborough and Morton 10k

Growing Lincolnshire club Gainsborough and Morton Striders AC hosted a successful first 10k event which saw a tranche of runners bring home personal bests despite worsening conditions over the duration of the race.

33 of the first 50 RunBritain registered athletes across the line delivered PBs over a fast and flat traffic free course which is sure to enhance the GMS 10k’s reputation for those seeking quick times in future.

Despite a sold out field of just 500 for the competition’s debut season, 489 runners completed the course and the competition for the various prize categories was exceptionally fierce.

Wolds Veteran Mick Jagger pushed his younger counterparts hard, with a hair’s breadth separating the V40 challenger, Salford Harriers’ Pumlani Bangani and Sleaford Town Runners’ Iain Bailey as they powered around the final bend and into the home straight. Bailey opened his stride in the last few yards and took first place with a course record of 33:26, closely followed by Bangani in 33:29 and Jagger with 33:31.

There were few surprises in the Female placings as pre-race favourite Jenny Blizard took an early lead and did just enough to keep Scunthorpe and District’s Lindsay Skinner at bay. The Rotherham Harrier came home 30th overall in 37:41, with Skinner finishing moments later in 38:05. 3rd lady was deservedly taken by the Kimberworth Strider, Lindsy Gray who secured a PB of 38:49. The result finds Blizard 60th on the national ladder.

Photos: The leading pack and the final trio of (l-r) Pumlani Bangani(462), Mick Jagger and Iain Bailey (490) © John Rainsforth

First Junior was East Hull Harriers’ Alec Gibson, who achieved a PB of 35:24 and took home the Junior Cup.

In the remaining male categories, Mick Jagger was technically the first 40+ vet over the line, but this honour passed to John Siddens of the Sleaford Town Runners (34:14), who also boast the 50+ Super Vet winner in John Lawlor with a time of 37:50. The 60+ Super Vet will be a familiar name to many Lincolnshire runners, as Steve Green of the Wolds Veterans took yet another category title in 42:30 despite recent illness.

Cleethorpes AC’s Beverley Wilson took the female 40+ prize with a sub 40 run of 39:05. Caroline Wheelhouse was Doncaster AC’s lone prize winner on the day with a very respectable 41:21 in the female 50+ category, and the individual prizes were completed with Lincoln Wellington’s Margaret Morris finishing in 47:59 to take the ladies’ 60+ trophy.

The team trophy, which was awarded to the club with the first four finishers of either gender was convincingly won by the neighbouring Scunthorpe & District AC, who had three runners in the top 15 overall and the first female, averaging just over 35 minutes each.

The Gainsborough and Morton 10k filled exceptionally early in this, its inaugural year, and Gainsborough and Morton Striders AC would like us to pass on their thanks to the local running community for making the event a success. If you’d like to know more about the club, why not follow them on Twitter @GainsboroughRun ?

Photos: Helen Pavey gets into the race spirit; Lindsay Skinner and Jenny Blizard lead the women's race © John Rainsforth

Men's results

1	Iain Bailey	SLEAFORD TOWN RUNNERS	0:33:24
2	Pumlani Bangani	Salford Harriers	0:33:29
3	Mick Jagger	Wolds Vets	0:33:31

 

Women's results

1	Jenny Blizard	Rotherham Harriers	37:41
2	Lindsay Skinner	Scunthorpe and District	38:05
3	Lindsy Gray	Kimberworth Striders	38:49

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Trotters 5

Burnden Roadrunners enjoyed a strong showing with a team of over 30 runners as they hosted their annual club race the Trotters 5 on Sunday 4th March. An impressive field of 201 runners turned up on a chilly, drizzly day to compete in a 5 mile course on trails and paths through parkland and to enjoy a well deserved sausage butty afterwards.

In the men’s race Tom Carson of Bolton United Harriers was the winner in 27:23 with Mark Shakeshaft of Bury Athletic Club in 2nd in 28:24 and Tony Battersby of Leigh Harriers third in 28:45.

In the women’s race Louisa Thompson of Leigh Harriers was first lady in 31:34 with Rachael Thompson of Horwich in second 32:52 and Angela Allen also of Leigh in third in 33:44.

As the host club Burnden also enjoyed a good day with John Knowles first home for Burnden in 10th spot with Steve Nolan 1st V50. Kirsty Normanton was first Burnden lady closely followed by Isaline Kneale who was first in the L45 category. Lesley Fisher also headed her L50 category.

Rob Short of Burnden was the first Junior Male finisher and Emma Holden also won the L17 category.

Burnden men’s team finished in 3rd position and the men’s vets team was 2nd. Burnden Ladies Vets team was 2nd overall.

Men's results

1	Tom Carson	Bolton United Harriers	27:23
2	Mark Shakeshaft	Bury Athletic Club	28:24
3	Tony Battersby	Leigh Harriers & AC	28:45

 

Women's results

1	Louisa Thompson	Leigh Harriers & AC	31:34
2	Rachael Thompson	Horwich R M I Harriers	32:52
3	Angela Allen	Leigh Harriers & AC	33:44

 

Click here for full results

 

 

St David’s Day 5k and 10k

The event organised by British Military Fitness and now in its tenth year, hosted the Welsh 5km Road Race Championships and formed the fourth fixture in the 2012 Run Wales Series.

The 5km Race saw local Man Ieuan Thomas (Cardiff AAC) win the race outright and take the Welsh title in 14:52. Track specialist Thomas passed Swansea Harrier Marc Hobbs in the closing stages to clinch the title. Cardiff AAC’s James Thie took bronze here, a week after winning the British Universities 1500m title in Sheffield.

Swansea Harrier Dewi Griffiths was a pre-race favourite and took up the early front running before taking a wrong turn and loosing time.


Ieuan Thomas was also crowned U23 champion ahead of his clubmate and training partner Adam Bitchell. Ieuan said after the race that he was pleased with his victory and had known he was in good shape.

Chris Carpanini was a convincing winner of the Welsh U20 title slicing 30 seconds off his previous best to post 15:13 in the capital showpiece.

Helen Jenkins (Bridgend AC) took victory in the womens race with relative ease ahead of the Welsh Cross Country Champion, Caryl Jones (Swansea H). Andrea Whitcombe (Swansea H) and Alaw Beynon-Thomas (Swansea H) were the next to finish. Caryl took the Welsh title ahead of Andrea and Alaw who claimed the other podium places.

Sarah Livett (Menai T & F) made the long trip from North Wales count by taking the U20 Ladies title with Alaw Beynon Thomas adding the U23 title to her overall bronze in the Welsh Championships.

Gwynant Jones (Maldwyn H) and Rebecca Evans (Cardiff AAC) were the U17 men and women's champions respectively.

Stroud AC’s Joseph Dalgleish ran a lifetime best of 32:27 to win the 10km race ahead of Ross MacDonald (Swansea H) and Luke Mogadas Davies (unattached).

Holly Lawrence (Swansea H), Sharon Leech (Carmarthen H) and Sarah Herbert (unattached) took the podium places in the womens edition. Holly’s time of 36:54 also represented a personal best for the distance.

 

Men's 10k results

1	Joseph Dalgleish	STROUD AC	0:32:27
2	Ross Macdonald	SWANSEA HARRIERS	0:33:30
3	Luke Moghaddas-Davies		0:33:39

 

Women's 10k results

1	Holly Lawrence	SWANSEA HARRIERS	0:36:54
2	Sharon Leech	CARMARTHEN HARRIERS	0:40:14
3	Sarah Herbert		0:42:42

 

Men's 5k results

1	Ieuan Thomas	CARDIFF AAC	14:52
2	Marc Hobbs	SWANSEA HARRIERS	14:53
3	James Thie	CARDIFF AAC	15:02

 

Women's 5k results

1	Helen Jenkins		15:51
2	Caryl Mair Jones	SWANSEA HARRIERS	16:03
3	Andrea Whitcombe	HARROW AC	16:48

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Bushy Park 10K

Men's results

1	Ben Barwick	36.17
2	Andrew Tugwell	38.24
3	Gavin Duig	38.58

 

Women's results

1	Jay Hadfield	Elmbridge AC	45.05
2	Caroline Hall		46.57
3	Jo Hall		47.03

 

Click here for full results in due course

 

 

Down by the River 10k

The 6th running of Ronhill Cambuslang Harriers “Down by the River” 10k and 3k races brought out a record number of runners, loads of PB’s and a new 10k course record set by RHC’s Scottish Internationalist Stuart Gibson, which was previously held by Team GB marathon internationalist Martin Williams.

Run mostly along the River Clyde walkway, this flat, fast and traffic free race was re-scheduled from it’s previous Xmas date due to continued adverse weather conditions, and is now likely to become a must race for those wishing to obtain those early spring PB’s.

The 3k race, mostly contested by younger athletes, was won by Under 17 Ross Stephen from the host club, in a time of 9m52s, followed home by his club mate Dean McMurran (9m59s) and Law & District’s Luke Goss (10m21s). Under 13 Niamh Brown was first female home in a time of 11m13s.

The sun was shining brightly as over 100 runners lined up for the start of the 10k, ranging from the elite to the novice, all with their own targets in mind. Fresh from their medal winning exploits at the Scottish cross country championships, host club Ronhill Cambuslang’s senior runners were quickly to the fore, with Stuart Gibson carving out an early lead from David Munro and Martin McLaughlin, with Masters internationalists Robert Gilroy, Stevie Wylie and Jamie Reid starting more steadily. Shaun Lyon and David Henderson, both from Greenock Glenpark, were doing their best to split up the RHC runners.

Taking advantage of the excellent racing conditions, Stuart Gibson continued to increase his lead, eventually breaking the course record by 7 seconds to win in 31m18s. Robert Gilroy (32m36s) and Stevie Wylie(32m38s) both came through strongly to make it an RHC 1-2-3 to win the team prize from Greenock Welpark and Bellahouston Road Runners.

Alan Ramage secured 1st M40 (35m23s), Dave Thom 1st M50 (36m19s) and John Kay 1st M60 (58m05s).

Meanwhile, Claire McCracken of Bellahouston Harriers was a well deserved winner of the ladies race, in an excellent winning time of 38m26s, over 30 seconds clear of Jacqui Thomson of City of Glasgow in 38m58s, with Claire Wharton of Bellahouston Road Runners taking 3rd place in 40m58s.

The Ladies team prize went to Motherwell AC, who packed well throughout to finish ahead of Bellahouston Road Runners. Joanne Clark (Motherwell AC) secured 1st F35 (41m11s), Pauline Hannan (Dumbarton AAC) 1st F45 (43m09s) and Mae McIsaac (Motherwell AC) 1st F55 (45m56s).

Photo: Stuart Gibson on his way to setting a new course record

Men's results

1	Stuart Gibson	Ronhill Cambuslang	31:18
2	Robert Gilroy	Ronhill Cambuslang	32:36
3	Stevie Wylie	Ronhill Cambuslang	32:38

 

Women's results

1	Claire McCracken	Bellahouston Harriers	38:26
2	Jacqui Thomson	City of Glasgow	38:58
3	Claire Wharton	Bellahouston RR	40:58

 

Click here for full results

 

Haglofs Open5 adventure race - Dorking, North Downs

Well the weather gods must have heard that the Open5 was coming to town as the heavens opened on the latest instalment of the Open5 series. From a clear and sunny day on the Saturday drenched competitors biked and ran around the 5 hour score course in the North Downs on Sunday (the event day).

Mountain Bikers took in Coldharbour, Abinger Forest, Peaslake and Friday Street and found mystery controls placed on the thrilling singletrack trails of Summer Lightning and Barry Knows Best.

Runners criss-crossed the beautiful woodland trails searching out controls in a smaller but similar area to the bikers. All had the option of visiting Leith Hill for controls cunningly placed north and south of the Tower, which is the highest point for miles around.

On sunny days there is a great view south from this point. A pity there were no views this time! Although series wins in the male solos by Kim Collision and the female pairs by Fi Spostwood and Fiona McBryde are already secured , there is close competition in all other catergories. The final event in the Peaks is going to be a close one to determine the series winners in the three remaining categories.

It was all action on the day as competitors came and went from transition. One of the few competitors who has completed all event in this series, Tom Needham, came flying in then grabbing his bike and helmet went flying back out again. He had good motivation as he was trying to beat his fastest transition time from the previous event (12 seconds). He didn't do it on this occasion (17 seconds) due to his bike being placed further away from the start banner than normal!

As the first finish windows arrived temperatuires had dropped enough for snow to start falling, but it was mudy faced smiles with many competitors asking when we would be back again. We'll certainly put this one down for a return trip. All that remained was for competitors to bike the icy 4km downhill back to the event centre in Dorking for some well deserved tea, pasta and crumble and custard.

Female Pairs results

1	Fiona McBryde/Fi Spotswood	For Goodness Shakes!	415
2	Patricia Daas/Julie Jefferies	Gears and Tears Girls	300
3	Marilyn Merryweather/Victoria Starr		280

Female Solo results

1	Rosemary Byde	Ronde	520
2	Mandy Faint	Big Bear Bikes	468
3	Sarah Davies		405

 

Male Pairs results

1	Andy Wilson/Stuart Lynch		565
2	Robert Grew/Isaac Griffiths	Mud Monsters	509
3	Richard Craven/Craig Beech	Tri-Adventure	455

Male Solo results

1	Timothy Kei Martin	Loughbrough students	554
2	George Neville-Jones	Tri Adventure	525
3	Ian Grace	Ian Grace	520

 

Mixed Pairs results

1	Ben Turner/Sabrina Verjee	CamRacers	530
2	Karyn Burns/Neil Kerrison	Pork and Marshmellows	460
3	Nicki Adams/Tom Davies	TriAdventure	455

 

Click here for full results

 

 

 

Cloud Nine Hill Race

The weather for the 2012 Cloud Nine Hill race was cool with rain and sleet at the start of the race which meant of 502 pre-entries only 406 started.

With regular Simon Bailey absent, Jack Ross of SMAC improved on last year’s fourth place debut to win easily, over two minutes ahead of his nearest rival.

Olivia Walwyn Bush of Altrincham & District AC recorded her fourth consecutive win and was 11th overall. Wilmslow RC took both the men’s and ladies’ team prizes.

Men's results

1	Jack Ross	SMAC	00:55:26
2	Rob Grantham	Ellesmere Port RC	00:57:42
3	Paul Mannion	Ashbourne RC	00:57:46

 

Women's results

1	Olivia Walwyn Bush	Altrincham & District AC	01:00:22
2	Sandra Lewis	Altrincham & District AC	01:08:43
3	Sally Newman	Calder Valley Fell Runners	01:08:47

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Goring 10k

It was a wet and wild day for this year’s Goring 10k, gentle rain to start and then sleet / snow. The weather didn’t hold back the runners though with an amazing turn out of over 900 runners who braved the conditions.

The Men’s Gareth Watkins winner set a new course record.

Photo: The race was started by Paul Wycherley, World Record Holder and GB athlete

Men's results

1	Gareth Watkins	Army	33:44
2	Ian Harkness	Harrow/Thames Hare & Hounds	35:55
3	Guy Watts	Team Kennet	36:42

 

Women's results

1	Mary Spalton	Belgrave	40:17
2	Kay Walsha	Unattached	40:36
3	Jackie Perrin	Reading RR	41:32

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Cheadle Spring 5

A really cold and wet morning, with a mixture of rain and sleet 'greeted' the runners for this year's Cheadle Spring 5. What happened to the warm and dry conditions of late?

162 runners braved the conditions to provide a good race for the few intrepid spectators.

Men's results

1	Joe Brocklehurst	Stratford-upon-Avon	25.28
2	Ryan Holroyd	Staffs Moorlands AC	25.38
3	Chris Davies	Telford AC	26.32

 

Women's results

1	Mandy Vernon	Trentham RC	30.34
2	Rebecca Harrison	Cheadle RC	31.35
3	Ruth Watchorn-Rice	Staffs Moorlands AC	32.03

 

Click here for full results

 

 

USN Dorney Lake Duathlon Series - Race 2

The eagerly awaited USN Dorney Lake Duathlon Series finally got underway this Sunday following the snow postponement of Race 1. Despite inclement weather hitting Dorney Lake again, the competitive field’s spirits weren’t dampened, as they were greeted at the Votwo event village with free hot drinks and refreshments from the Votwo Little Big Kitchen’s Endurance Cafe.

The traffic free closed circuit Dorney Lake Olympic Rowing venue is ideal for novice and elite athletes alike and as racing got under way with the first run section, initial run splits suggested that times would be fast. First into transition 1 in the Super Sprint category was TBAS athlete Alex Fisher in a time of 08:50, followed closely by Robert Osborne and David Robertson neck and neck in 09:03. Judith Rice and Liza Croft set out their race intentions coming into T1 first and second. In the Sprint distance category Will Newberry stamped an early dominance over the field posting an impressive 16:57 fastest run split. Chris Hine followed Will into T1 followed closely by USN, event sponsors, team athlete Rich Sumpter. In the women’s Sprint event Kate Robson set the early pace in a time of 18:21, some 2mins ahead of second placed Anna Murawska.

The wet conditions didn’t really slow the bike racing either and Robert Osborne gradually caught and passed Alex Fisher to extend a lead of over a minute going into the final run, which he held onto to take victory in the men’s Supersprint. In the women’s Supersprint, Liza Croft extended her early advantage to take first place by just under a minute over Judith Rice.
In the Men’s Sprint race, Will Newberry was chased hard by USN’s Rich Sumpter posting bike splits only 20secs apart, however in the second run section Will showed his running strength and a clean pair of heals to finally finish nearly two minutes ahead of the field to take a well earned win. Kate Robson wasn’t really challenged in the women’s Sprint event, dominating the field and showing a large proportion of the men how to race, finishing an impressive 15th overall and 1st female.

As competitors crossed the finishing line, all gratefully received a comprehensive USN goody bag and then headed for a warm drink and bacon butty in the Endurance Café. The Votwo team will be there to welcome you when the USN Duathlon Series returns to Dorney Lake on Sunday 1st April when we will have glorious sunshine (that’s not an April’s fool joke!) so come and join us at this great event and sharpen your race speed for the triathlon season.

For full event details and online entry visit www.votwoevents.co.uk where you will also find information on all our other events, the Votwo training camp and Votwo coaching services, so you can train with the best as well as race with the best.

Men's results

1	Will Newberry	01:06:29
2	Rich Sumpter	01:08:20
3	Chris Hine	01:11:30

Women's results

1	Kate Robson	01:16:39
2	Anna Murawska	01:18:39
3	Kerry Johnston	01:23:56

 

Click here for full results

 

 

Wymondham AC 20 mile road race

A grim day of weather greeted the 280 runners who took part in the Wymondham AC 20 mile road race. The cold rain and wind was relentless for runners, many of whom will be heading to south in a few weeks to take part in the London Marathon.

Despite the conditions Stephen Gibbs (Norwich Road Runners) maintained a good pace throughout the race to win in a time of 1.57.06. Stephen had some company at the start of the race but his consistent pacing paid off dropping his last rival at about 11 miles. Carl Prewer (Lowestoft Road Runners) finished well to take second place ina time of 1.59.41 followed shortly by Steven Cockerell (Nene Valley) in 2.00.24, just missing the sub 2 hour mark.

In the womens race Tracey Partmore (Cambridge & Coleridge AC) finished nearly five minutes ahead of her nearest rival. Tracey, aged 45 ran impressively over the 20-mile distance completing the course in 2.25.51. Another good placing for a veteran runner in the womens race was Annie Bradbury (Ryston Runners), aged 50 who finished in second place in a time of 2.30.25. Alice Ambrose (CONAC) was chasing the experienced veterans hard and finished in third place with a time of 2.31.39.

Team prizes were awarded to Norwich Road Runners for the Senior Mens, Vetran Mens and senior women’s teams. Once again show casing the strength in depth of their road running club. The vetrans womens team prize was awarded to Ryston runners AC.

The weather did not halt the spirits of the rest of the field and they were motivated by the Wymondham AC marshals who ensured their was plenty of encouragement for runners. Thanks to all those that turned out to help on the day in the cold conditions. Thanks must also go to St Johns Ambulance, the Ex Servicemens club and both PILCH and Nicks Diner for supporting the race.

The next race organised by Wymondham AC is the Midsummer 10 Miler to be held on the 10th June with entries opening shortly.

Men's results

1	Stephen Gibbs	Norwich Road Runners	1:57:06.4
2	Carl Prewer	Lowerstoft Road Runners	1:59:41.1
3	Steven Cockerell	Nene Valley	2:00:24.3

 

Women's results

1	Tracey Patmore	Cambridge & Coleridge AC	2:25:51.5
2	Annie Bradbury	Ryston Runners AC	2:30:25.8
3	Molly McKay	West Norfolk AC	2:31:21.6

Click here for full results

 

 

 

Fire Fighters 2UP Duathlon

The concept for the inaugural Firefighters 2UP Duathlon, in sunny Bolton was the brainchild of Ironman Chris Rainford - author of this report. The idea was turned into reality when he approached Marc Laithwaite of Epic Events. Chris’s idea was to ‘spice up’ the usual duathlon format whilst encouraging a partner/friend/wife/son/daughter to participate in an event they’d usually be watching. And so the traditional cycling ‘2UP’ format was moulded into a duathlon with fantastic results.

The event was nearly ‘scuppered’ before it began with sideways sleet causing the start to be put back two hours whilst the roads became rideable and the temperature warmed up a little. This lead to 160 athletes ‘huddled’ in a warm pub for two hours, prompting much reluctance to rack their bikes when transition eventually opened!

The race got underway with local athletes Paul Guinan and Matt Nuttall from Lancs Fire Service ‘blasting out’ a very quick 21:25 on the hilly 3.6 mile course. They were closely followed by Ian Lawton and Ian Roberts of team TORQ.

The majority of the field had read the race notes suggesting trail shoes, leaving only a tiny few slipping and sliding on the steep fells, with hilarious results for the many spectators. Guinan’s and Nuttall’s lead was obliterated on the bike as team Ian came ‘storming through’, in what only can be described as tsunami road conditions.

The wet conditions did play into the hands of GMC Fire Service duo Chris Rainford and Neil Mercer. Their intimate knowledge of the course, coupled with their superior bike handling skills, saw them record the fastest bike split of the day (48:15), taking them into 2nd place. Unfortunately Rainford’s legs ‘capitulated’ on the final section, allowing Guinan and Nuttall to steal second behind team TORQ, who’s final run time of 22:20 brought them home in clear first place.

The ladies race was a much closer affair all the way through. Arragon Tri team Janet Treviskis and Lisa Waistell used their Ironman strength to pull ahead on the final run section and snatch victory in a time of 2 hours and 15 minutes. The first mixed team prize (first time ever for a duathlon!) went to Tyne and Wear team Natalie Bately and ‘Slow Al Heatley’, they were the perfect example of what made this event a success.

The most amazing feat of the day went to the marshals who stood their ground in the blizzard conditions, without them, the event could not have taken place. Feedback suggest that the event was a ‘huge hit’ and the format will no doubt be repeated, perhaps not only in duathlon? Endurance sports have become so popular and athletes are continuously looking for something which is ‘a little out of the envelope’. The concept of racing with your ‘mates’ would appear to be a real vote winner. A 2UP Ironman may not be on the horizon, but if it does happen at some time in the future.. it was born in Lancashire!

Men's results

1	Ian Lawton Ian Roberts	Torq	01:34:58.0 01:34:58.4
2	Matt Nuttall Paul Guinan	Lancashire Fire Service	01:37:56.5 01:37:57.3
3	Daryl Oguana Mick Golightly	Tyne and Wear Fire Service	01:39:04.2 01:39:04.5

 

Mixed results

1	Slow Al Heatley Natalie Batey	Tyne and Wear Fire Service	01:54:04.9 01:54:06.3
2	Phil Hayward Zoe Francis	Team Duathlon	02:09:37.0 02:09:37.0
3	Debi Coles Richard Hughes	Oxfordshire Fire Service	02:22:19.5 02:22:20.1

Women's results

1	Janet Trevaskis Lisa Waistell	Arragons Triathlon Club	02:15:34.8 02:15:35.4
2	Kat Lennox Joanne Mcwilliams	Tri Preston	02:36:48.8 02:36:48.8
3	Neela Patel Debra Jones	Team Duathlon	02:42:41.9 02:42:41.9

Click here for full results

 

 

Bideford Half Marathon

Men's results

1	Shaun Antell	North Devon Road Runners	01:09:39
2	Mark Jenkin	Bideford AAC	01:10:01
3	John Ward	Bideford AAC	01:11:55

 

Women's results

1	Vicky Pincombe		01:21:14
2	Anne Luke	Tamar Trotters	01:22:14
3	Helen Dyke	Poole Runners	01:23:34

 

Click here for full results

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Age UK’s inaugural Wrap Up and Run 10k

Hundreds of runners from London brightened up Crystal Palace when they joined in the fun at Age UK’s inaugural Wrap Up and Run 10k event on Sunday 4th March to raise vital funds for older people.

Before starter’s orders, participants made up of club runners and fun runners of all abilities got into the party spirit in Crystal Palace by taking part in an aerobic warm-up led by local fitness expert Taylor Battery.

Fiona Jerman, Special and Challenge Events Manager at Age UK, said: “We are delighted with the number of people who took part in our first ever 10k run in Crystal Palace. From first time novices to experienced runners, everyone had fun on the day and braved the weather to raise funds for older people locally, as well as supporting national projects that change lives.”

Money raised from the run will go towards Age UK’s Spread the Warmth campaign, which aims to make colder months warmer for 360,000 older people by providing information, advice and practical services, preventing many thousands from being left isolated and alone. Money will also go to Age UK Bromley & Greenwich to help older people locally, funding vital services including a ‘fit for life’ programme, advocacy services and support planning and brokerage.

Age UK has challenged each runner to raise £50, which could buy a heater for an older person or hot meals at a day centre for 16 people. Supporters can donate directly by texting ‘WRAP12 £5’ (people can choose to donate any amount in their text) to 70070 to give direct to Age UK.

For more information about Age UK fundraising events, visit www.ageuk.org.uk/events

Men's results

1	Abdi Madar	Unattached	00:33:18
2	James Fooks-Bale	Unattached	00:35:28
3	Joe Strange	Bedford & County AC	00:36:17

 

Women's results

1	Janet Worster	Unattached	00:42:50
2	Elizabeth Stuart	Unattached	00:43:45
3	Lauren Bradshaw	Unattached	00:44:05

 

Click here for full results

Age UK Wrap Up and Run 10k - Southport

Men's results

1	David Hamilton	Southport Waterloo AC	00:35:01
2	Peter Bains	Unattached	00:35:34
3	Steve Lewis	Southport Waterloo AC	00:38:33

 

Women's results

1	Trace Peters	Southport Waterloo AC	00:40:36
2	Claire Bunce	Red Rose Road Runners	00:41:57
3	Angela Delaney	Southport Waterloo AC	00:43:03

 

Click here for full results