December 2017

Buntingford 10M - Sunday 31 December

Thanks to Keith Morgan for passing his number to me and the organizers for allowing me to transfer at such short notice. I felt totally unprepared and feeling like a Christmas pudding but was just pleased to use the race to get out and push a 10 mile road run. Not doing any homework on what lay ahead was a bit of a surprise and shock as the hills just kept coming however it made me work all the way, I just missed out on a age category win but happy with 2nd and a good overall position in a large quality field. The Winner finishing in 52 mins for the 10 tough miles. 6 flyers made the start line and all finished well some with bigger smiles than others, well done guys.

Martin Beare - 1:04:11

Great Barrow Challenge Day 2 - Friday 29 December

My plan was to get to 32 marathons for the year and that was always going to involve these races. The only issue was one, two or three. On day one I was asked quite possibly the best question ever. I drove to Suffolk and text the current at 7.30am when I got there as it was perishing. "Shine a light it's cold" I said. A few moments later the reply was "Where the heck are you now?" It appears I forgot to tell her I was getting up almost before I went to bed to run a marathon miles away! As for the race, if it was a club event it would have been cancelled but I guess the organiser didn't want to refund. The roads were for long sections very icy and treacherous in places. I'm glad I only fell once and that wasn't bad.  My eighth Great Barrow Challenge event of the year and if I hadn't been looking at the floor, it was probably a nice country course with a mix of trail and road. It was also great to leave the lap counter at home. The company helped as I chatted with Becs  all the way and despite finishing together, the organisers have her down as being 6 seconds in front of me. Rude. Mark didn't want to be there as he was unwell, but turned up and ran well. A shot of Raspberry liquor at mile 18 helped with the cold.

Day two was far worse than day one. The weather had turned wet and it rained right from the gun and mostly all the way. There were still patches of ice in places but it was the wind that did the damage, gusting for most of the event. It got really blowy in places and my fingers and feet were wet and cold all race long. Day two was a different route and all on road, with quite a few country roads and wide open fields next to them to contend with, which meant minimal shelter from the wind in sections.I ran it again with Becs and chat most certainly helped me through a toughie of a race. You know you are in bad shape in a marathon when you start looking at your watch at mile 4 wondering how far there was left to go. Still, Becs got me over the line yet again and it was greatly appreciated. Having got to 32 marathons this year with this race (and 92 overall), I didn’t need to turn up and run day three was was a mighty relief. That leaves me with just 8 marathons to run between January and May, which seems ludicrously low. It’s given me the opportunity to be able to pick and choose which events I want to enter in the lead up to hopefully my 100th in MK in May.

Paul Owen - 5:22:13

Pirton Boxing Day Run - Tuesday 26 December

I ventured over to wet & windy Pirton for the annual Boxing Day run. On arrival , met up with several other Flyers and warmed up with a gentle jog around the playing fields.  Race start - and we set off for 2 laps of the playing field, and then headed out over the fields and hills circling out and back onto the playing fields for another lap around before finishing. Route was not too muddy and going around the fields was good. I finished in a time of 34.06 - which is not brilliant, but considering my lack of running recently and coupled with a loss of my running mojo , I was happy just to get round. I am hoping to regain my mojo for 2018 , and looking to participate in as many of the 30 x 30challenge races - as my baby allows me to, before screaming “ give me a break”!! Onwards & Upwards and here’s to a happy and healthy 2018 to all at AFF.

Keith Morgan

A bit of a family do this year, we have run this lovely event many times and is a great way to blow the Boxing Day cobwebs away. A little under subscribed this year but the weather/conditions were spot on. A great way to build an appetite for Christmas left overs and another wedge of Christmas cake! Seven of us took part in the main race; Karen, Me and Kristian, our son, and also brother-in-law, sister-in-law, niece-in-law and Kristian’s girlfriend. Rosie, our daughter, my mother-in-law and another niece-in-law plus Bonnie our Westie! all took part in the walking event. There were also three more family members propping up the bar! A grand morning out and with work commitments making it difficult for me to make club events it was nice to spend a while with a few fantastic flyers!

Richard Hollingsworth

Enigma Christmas Cracker Marathon Day 1 - Tuesday 19 December

Another race slipped into the plans at the last moment. I mailed the organiser and asked if I could enter as I had always hoped to finish on 32 marathons for the year. If I didn’t get in on this, my back up plan was 3 after Christmas, but I really didn't want that. He was happy to oblige and so I again found myself on the start line of my third in a row multi lap event. This was 7 and a bit times around Caldecotte Lake in MK which I first ran in November. It was a very cold start to the day and the Lakes were partly frozen. With Saturdays race still in my legs, I found this one tough going. I was on my own again and didn’t really chat much to anyone, which did make it feel an even longer day. Dave Grohl and the Foo’s came to my rescue and kept me company and going.

Paul Owen - 4:28:59

3 Counties XC Race 4: Standalone Farm - Sunday 17 December

Another cold day for the Three Counties Cross-Country. Another long walk albeit from the car park to HQ rather than HQ to start. Another race where the race distance wasn't quite as advertised. 44 Flyers were not deterred by either and took the Christmas spirit for the tricky match at the home of our biggest rivals North Herts.

For the men, whilst we lost a couple to illness or work commitments, the strength in depth meant we could bring others in to plug the gap. The end result was success both individually and as a team. On the individual side we were grateful for Craig Palmer taking the long journey up from Dorset and he was awarded with his first ever Three Counties cross-country win. Behind Craig in 2nd was Paul Mizon who graciously made himself available on his return from injury. Paul Farmer confirmed previous course form with his best run of the season in 5th. Tim Harris continued a lifelong run of top 10's. Whilst not Tim's best finish it is a great club-man who still comes out for the fight when they know they are not fully fit. Securing his first top 10 and best Three Counties run was Ian Halpin. The vets of myself and Steve Upton again scored for the team. Making up the scoring team was Matt Palmer, our newest signing who travelled up from Reading. Matt also brought (was driven) up by his Grandparents who are his biggest supporters and also invest in his Motor Sport career. There were great performances across the board with best season places secured by Simon Read, Warwick Browning, Chris Newnham, Mark Billington, Brendan O'Mahoney, Dave Sedgley, Jeremy Bell, Martin Godin, Jonathan Walker and Haydn Lecker, with Martin having the biggest improvement down 66 places. We also welcomed Haydn, Philip Horan and Barry Dackombe for their début runs this season.

The men's league result was a resounding victory. This now puts the men 2 points ahead with a better overall points difference so very much in our hands to finish the job.

For the women, again they were depleted with injuries and absentees. They were fortunate however that Nicola Bowerman could make the match after meticulously working out logistics to mean she could make a family lunch in London and run. Nic was rewarded with a great 2nd place. Caroline Gilby was next to score in 28th to keep up her grand scoring record. The 3rd Flyer scored for the first time in 36th. Dayle Walker is very much a bright future for the club. Lisa Wells continued her good season in 37th and her first top 200 overall this season.

In addition to the above, the following secured their best season positions: Charlene Halpin, Rebecca Fleckney, Laura Johnston, Emily Mead, Emma White, Pat Godfrey, Keri Withers and Claire Jones with Claire making the biggest gains up a whopping 75 places. The ladies battled to a 5th place and now sit 5th overall.

In the combined league, Flyers were 2nd. This moves us into 2nd place. A victory in the last match though would see a Flyers victory as we sit just 1 point down with a better points score.

In addition to the team leagues, individually Flyers sit in good positions with one match to go. Tim Harris, Warwick Browning and myself lead our age groups, while Martin Beare and Pat Godfrey sit 2nd in theirs with Nicola Bowerman 3rd in hers. If they all run the last event, there should be pots to collect.

Thank you again to Phil Bierton and Richard Jones for recording the results and the supporters who came along to give valued support to the team. One match to go in January at Priory Park albeit Beds County Champs are earlier in January. Before then have a great Christmas and enjoy the festivities.

Mark Waine

Newark Show Ground Marathon - Saturday 16 December

We were due to visit the in-laws in Geordieland, so the obvious thing to do was to find a marathon on the way. And low and behold, up popped this race just yards off the A1 and there were spaces. In order to get to the 9am start, I had to catch 3 trains and two taxi’s on what was a chilly and wet Saturday morning. I made it with about 3 mins to spare and in fact the race started before I was ready, but I was never going to get lost. Another multi lap race, which took us up and down and around the show ground with 8 laps amounting to a marathon. Within each lap, the course took you along the same sections of the ground a number of times and this was very much a "I’m here for the number” to add to the tally type event. This isn’t an event for newbies to marathon running, as if you did this one you might never do another one. It was pretty dull, it was another soggy race and I won’t be rushing back. It did have an ultra option and the chap who won that ran 39 or so miles, which must have taken some doing. The marathon was enough for me. Still it did the trick as it allowed the current to get her hair done early doors in town and pick me up shortly after I had finished, before heading up the road. Fortunately, I wasn’t able to make the Sunday race which was more of the same  but a number of people did.

Paul Owen-4:43:10

Honolulu Marathon - Sunday 10 December

For some unknown reason, my current job required me to head to Hawaii on a 2 week course, I didn't put up too much of a fight and the first thing I did before confirming my tickets, was find out if any races were happening during my time out in the Pacific. Unbelievably, my little jolly coincided with the 45th annual Honolulu marathon, the rest is predictable.

Fast forward to 10th Dec and I'd book my Uber and arrived in Honolulu at 4am. I meandered through the streets of the varied city and found my way to a start line, packed with 35,000 people. The start was obviously initiated by a stirring rendition of the Star Spangled banner and more fireworks that the UK's entire lay down for Nov 5th!

Due to the humidity the first 5 miles through the city were horribly sticky and sweaty, although the multiple water stops helped keep me cool. I kept it steady despite the obvious adrenaline rush and we were soon clear of the mugginess of the high rise area. After this, I settled into the race nicely and as we ascended up Diamond head, and onto the main Interstate, the elites passed us on their return journey (headed for a course record and a 2:08 finish). We then ran alongside a prominent valley and were drowned in an isolated rain storm. It was refreshing but actually made life hard work. Still, the Japanese guy running in a full Pikachu outfit and no shoes likely had it worse than I did! After we turned back for home at around mile 16, things started getting a little hard work; the sun was now out in full and the warmth was clearly hitting me. Still, the support was immense and we were once again given a serious drowning by that bizarre storm at about mile 18. By mile 22, I was really suffering with the heat and shockingly, a bloody Gade Valley runner passed me! Feeling a bit drained now, the organisers were thankfully handing out iced sponges. Over the final few miles I had some really good battles with a few other runners, this helped me finish confidently and the finish straight was extremely rewarding.

I never imagined I'd get the chance to run this event and can certainly recommend it to anyone. My only recommendation would be to acclimatise longer than a week and jump in the sea off Waikiki beach immediately after the race - it's well worth it.

Scott Huntley - 3:28:09

Enigma Deja Vu Marathon - Wednesday 6 December

I’m not a fan of multi lap races but as part of the quest for the 100 marathon vest, I’ve been sticking a few of these into the schedule. Richard didn’t need his satnav skills as the briefing was essentially go that way and keep the lakes at Willen in MK on the right. Repeat 9 times. He should have also said 'and follow Paul Barton' who shot off in to the distance at the start. We didn’t see him again until the end, by which point he had added another sub 4 marathon time to his belt. As lap races go, it actually wasn’t too bad. The loop was under 3 miles and we seemed to knock them off fairly consistently, albeit we were lapped by the leader twice as he headed for a 3.05 time. There were only 38 runners who spread out quite a bit, with the last finisher coming home in 6.54. We lapped a fair few ourselves, but it wasn’t the sort of race where we were trying to bang out a time, partly due to it being my 27th marathon so far of 2017 and Richard being not that far behind. We were there for the number and despite it being about an hour slower than I would have liked, there were still 24 finishers out there as we dived into the warmth of the cars post run. The Enigma set up will not appeal to a mass marathon audience. They are organised by one man, who doesn’t need marshals as they are almost all multi lappers around Willen, Caldecotte or Furzton lakes in MK (although he does a canal one as well, often put on mid week with minimal razzmatazz. They appeal mainly to the hardcore, marathon number collating brigade of which I am currently one.

Paul Owen

November 2017

3 Counties XC Race 3: Dunstable - Sunday 26 November

3rd Three Counties league match today hosted by our colleagues at Dunstable with what appeared to be the hilliest course with the non-alluringly named Heartbreak Hill. In addition there appeared to be distance trading as match 2 shorter than advertised course was equalled by the extended length at Dunstable. Despite the inclines, it was in the main a quick course. Flyers again put in another strong entry with 51 runners.

The ladies were dealt a pre-race blow with 3 of their regular scorers Deborah Pedley, Hattie King and Michelle Morris all ruled out with injury or illness. It was good however that they still came along to support their teammates. With this came the opportunity to step up into the scoring team and this was snapped up by Jess Anstee who was 16th lady and Emma Blackwell 18th. They accompanied Nicola Bowerman 4th lady and Louise Clark 20th lady to bring the team home in a very good 3rd position which moved them up into 3rd overall for the season. Nicola actually finished within 50 metres of the first 3 ladies which was even more remarkable as she raced with her laces undone and the fight to keep her racers on. The depth in the woman is confirmed by the fact that in the first 3 matches there have been 9 different scorers. The race also saw Jess, Sophia Bartlett, Emma, Nicola, Kate Cornelius, Claire Jones and Jo Morris record their best results of the season so far.

The men were also missing a number of their previous scorers with a couple of long distance travellers not due back for this one, Sunday working, Paul "Judith Chalmers" Farmer on another trip and Ross still on the missing persons list after celebrating his birthday yesterday. We were fortunate to have Ian Halpin after his storming Wolverton 5 yesterday followed by a London shindig , Steve Upton taking a break from his multi-marathons and Tim Harris who with a calf injury has been unable to train for the best part of 3 weeks and only passed a fitness test yesterday. All of these guys scored well and they were accompanied by Joe Strange, Phil Holland, Martin Beare, Giles Shorley who picked up well through the field to score for the first time this season and myself. For the men, Ian Halpin, Phil Holland, Simon Read, Giles, Philip Mead, Tank Hardwick, Andy Atherton, Jeremy Bell and Joshua Dyball secured their best results of the season. The men finished 2nd in the team which meant they maintained their first place in the league.

The strong results by both teams meant that we were 2nd combined team however as we beat the previous top of the league, this meant Flyers are now league leaders. This is a brilliant performance showing that even with absentees our strength in depth is evident. The attendees remain high which also helps to lift the team. This was a fitting performance on the 2 year anniversary of the passing of Paul Lydon (Goldi), a runner steeped in Flyer's history and values.

The league is still extremely tight eg combined we lead on points difference from North Herts and it is all to play for. Please can you continue to support the Flyers at the next match at Standalone (North Herts home match) on the 17th December. Every place counts!

Julie and Mark

Chelmsford 10K - Sunday 19 November

A spot of race tourism as I travelled to leafy Essex with George Arbuckle to test the theory that a month after a marathon a 10k PB could be on the cards. Having never run below 40 minutes that was my goal. Billed as a fast course I was looking forward to all the downhills, unfortunately we weren’t allowed to run it in reverse. 2k in I was still running up an incline. At this point I may have rename Mark Waine to F@cking Waine. At 5k I clocked 19.27, a nice downhill section followed which was perfectly timed. At 7k there was a particulary unkind hill. Still I gritted my tooth and kept George in view, my thought process being if I can see George (certainly couldn’t understand him) then I must be on for a decent time. As we neared the finish I looked forward to seeing the clock, there wasn’t one (no expense spared). Official results clocked me at 38.51 with George 30 seconds ahead in 38.21.

Philip Horan

Shillington Shuffle-LDWA - Sunday 19 November

Having failed last year, on a less hilly route, to make my target time of 6.30.  I had tweaked a muscle & had to walk for at about 5 miles (not that my 'running' speed is much faster than a walk!) and only finished in 6.49. So this year I had a target of around 6.40  - and despite the hills (which these days I'm very slow at climbing) I was very pleased to finish in 6 hrs 39min

David Sedgley

A new course for this iconic event. Ran really well on a beautiful day with excellent organisation. Thank you LDWA!

Warwick Browning

Last Sunday a number of Flyers ventured to run the Shillington Shuffle which was nowhere near Shillington, starting and finishing at Barton. Conditions were good and four of us (Messr Lewis and Madam's Gibson and Oakley) set off at 9am. Early into the run, reports that Bedford was flat were disproved as nose bleeds and altitude sickness set in. The excitement of the high views and earache meant that it only took about a mile to discover an alternative route. One bench does look very much like another and when you've seen one kissing gate you have seen them all. There was also the key question of how long do you leave it before you realise you wont find that hedge - in our case about a mile downhill. This followed ignoring a mature lady walker at the top of the hill who advised we were going the wrong way. We had also picked up prior to this about 10 other runners including Oakley Senior and Mark Billington. They preferred staying on the higher ground and the facts will confirm that it took them hours longer to get back to the village hall. Some other runners did come with us and it was fair to say there were a couple of Doubting Thomas's in there. Hattie sought to address this by quoting from one of her favourite artists Lord Bon Jovi telling the runners, "keep the faith, keep the faith, lord you gotta keep the faith" which lead Jezza to sing George Michael. Sarah just went straight for the psychologicals quoting "PMA, PMA". As luck should find us we found a notice board with a map. After a quick lesson in map reading and which direction you are heading down on the map we plotted a course back to civilisation. It was joyous times when about a km later we saw fellow direction readers. It was very nice and social that we got the opportunity to pass again some walkers, including the previous mentioned mature lady walker, who we had run passed about 40 minutes earlier. We were back on track albeit 2 miles on the route was 3.5 on the garmin. Some of the guys who went with us went their own way and we hope they finished! After this it was plain sailing for us divided by some bourbon biscuits. A really nice route, weather and company we completed the 12 (13.5) mile route in 2 hrs 28 mins. Albeit one of our party exercised the let your teammate checkout at the beginning first and bag a cheap 1 min victory. Not a record but a good mornings work. Like last Christmas holidays we will plan to follow the course as a training run albeit with no diversions!

A.Nonymous [but reads like Mark Waine]

Dirt Half Marathon - Saturday 19 November

Great to see a gathering of flyers at the start of this semi off road half marathon. I scheduled this race in as part of my training and I am always keen to train with races as it improves race craft and keeps your efforts honest added to this I just love racing and feeling the adrenaline. I had the heads up to race in road shoes and not in trail shoes as the going was good to firm which it was until we hit the boggy fields and off road sections, I regret not wearing trail shoes as I was slipping all over the place and having to take a wide line. However I pushed all the way and pleased to match last year's time finishing 15th overall from 800 runners. Best bit was having tea and cake with all the great flyers at the finish, how I love my sport of running and the people in it, at the age of nearly 55 I am just so grateful just to be able to run and take part. Well done flyers you're brilliant.

Martin Beare

3 Counties XC Race 2: Wootton - Sunday 12 November

We had our largest turnout this season with 63 runners. Whilst the majority overall finish places may have been higher than race 1, this was skewed by the increased depth and quality with nearly an additional 100 runners.

We welcomed 15 men making their first outing this year (Messrs Ackerley, Anstee, Atherton, Beare, Bell, Cutler, Decesare, Dyball, Goddin, Haigh, Palmer, Rouse, Stanleys (Dave and Terry) and Walker) and 13 women (Ms's Aaktar, Anstee, Bartlett, Beare, Blackwell, Bowerman, Clark, Cornelius, Jones, Kelley, Morris, Ruditis and Palmer). Of the lady newbies, 3 of these made up the scoring team with Nic Bowerman 7th lady despite having an allergic reaction to Prosecco in the race and making the route that little bit slipperier, Deborah Beare 13th, and Louise Clark finishing 19th. They were accompanied by Hattie King who was 17th lady. The ladies improved on match 1 with a strong 3rd.

For the men we were fortunate that Craig Palmer travelled all the way up from Dorset to run (as did Mrs Palmer, Steph) despite racing yesterday. He had the added complication of losing a shoe with a mile to go but still plugged on for a brilliant 2nd. Pete Benedicter also raced yesterday but showed great toughness to finish 7th. Ian Halpin bagged another top run in a successful year with 14th, I finished 15th receiving good teamwork and encouragement on route by Phil Holland who came 18th. David Ackerley had a brilliant Flyers debut in 20th. Another runner who never seems to run a bad race and pulled out the stops just shy of his 55th birthday was Martin Beare. The most remarkable improvement this year has been Ross Henson. After beating his best ever performance in match 1 by over 100 places he improved further to record another personal best of 26th and his first in the scoring team. The scoring team was completed by John Decesare who we were fortunate attended as one of his eldest twins broke his collarbone on Thursday so had his 2 youngest and extremely well behaved twins in tow. John secured his best ever finish in 28th. Despite a number of absentees the mens team secured 1st place.

The combined team result was 1st. We beat Bedford into 2nd place by only 21 places. With the women's total being nearly 200 less than match 1, this demonstrated both the huge improvement but also the importance of those not in the scoring teams pushing other teams runners down the results. Was great again to see a big turnout today which helps lift the team and that we have massive depth. Runners are improving across the board and embracing cross country which will undoubtedly assist performances on other running surfaces. Next match is in a fortnight on Nov 26th. Please can you continue to support and drive the team forward in a supportive and welcoming environment. Thank you for all your efforts.

Julie and Mark

Cyclo-cross, Shuttleworth - Sunday 5 November

Another enjoyable but tough course which lent itself more towards a CX bike rather than a MTB, I’m  still not fast enough to beat the time cut off to allow a final lap but I will be booking MK bowl again in a few weeks. A big Thanks for the encouragement provided by Debs and Martin as I negotiated an energy sapping steep section.

Mike Petty - 5 laps 9:23/lap - 58th out of 69

Saucony English XC Relays at Berry Hill Park, Mansfield - Saturday 4 November

Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers had in its history only previously entered 1 team into this iconic race which consisted of Craig Palmer,Tim Harris,Phil Holland and Jason Moore finishing 69th. It was now time to get more Flyers teams involved on the national stage, at a time when the English Cross Country Association was also mentioning record entries.

The 2 Ladies teams set off at 2:05pm on leg 1 with Hattie King & Charlene Halpin getting stuck straight into the 3k loop, Both got their teams off to a great start with Hattie handing the baton over in 78th place and Charlene in 129th. Leg 2 saw Deborah Beare come tearing through the field taking her team up to 63rd place with Lisa Wells also moving her team up to 108th place. Leg 3 welcomed Julie (XC Captain ive forgot my shoes an already run 8 miles this morning) Pritchett complete the 3rd and final leg steering our first ever female flyers team home in a great 78th place and the other female team saw a Young Ellie thomas run a blinder  bringing the team up to a 95th - fantastic running. To have two Flyers teams home and dry inside the top 100 of a very strong national field was excellent to see and a brilliant performance. A Massive well done ladies. You have done yourself and the Flyers extremely proud.

Onto the Mens race 2:40pm 4 Geezers 2 x 2.5k laps. Bang goes the gun and Craig shoots off like a bull in a china shop going through the first mile a little too quick. This was not the ideal way to race and lead to running a slower 2nd lap praying that the Croatian Hero Love God didn't overtake him. Craig completed leg 1 in 48th pace with Ian completing the circuit handing over in 99th place, with top 100 in this field was a great start! Leg 2 we had Paul Farmer and Martin Beare and were hoping Paul would show some of the same form that once saw him complete this course in 16:09 many moons ago. After a week on holiday celebrating his anniversary with alternative training he tried to squirm out of running before eventually agreeing to run , handing over in 55th. Martin Beare who doesnt seem to age and keeps improving ran a strong leg of to hand over in 103rd place. Leg 3 Golden Boy Tim Harris who was feeling totally unwell minus his voice, ran purely because it was a team event. He ran a swift leg moving us into 51st place.  Richard Gale had a solid run in leg 3 handing over in 126th Place. Leg 4 also known as the glory leg, is where the field is very spread out so mental toughness is required. Max took the baton in 51st place and having no idea at the time with top 50 being a massive achievement ran solo picking off lots of back markers and working through the field to bring home the flyers in 50th place whilst Scott Huntley ploughing through the mud,hills and woods made great gains bringing the team home in 112th. There Were 245 Mens teams entered that day so to have one team 50th an the other 112th is a massive achievement putting Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers firmly on the map.

A massive well done to all those that took part, for David Thomas for his valuable support and Mark Waine for the entering side of things which I know is a pain in the arse. Those that did it and enjoyed spread the word because 2018 will see us return an climb the National ladder again with Ian the croatian hero the captain and again I will assist.

Craig Palmer

Enigma Marathon Day 1 - Saturday 4 November

Day 766 (slight correction on my counting) of the current running streak, marathon 26 of the year and 86th overall. WARNING - the following may offend those that like running 7 and a bit times around a lake in MK. The main issue was, it was 7 and a bit times around a lake in MK. TBH, I didn’t want to do it, the weather turned with grey skies and rain (which lasted most of the run) and the 50 odd entrants seemed to know each other and no one said a word to me. It was flat and almost impossible to get lost. Which I did, albeit for a short time. There was quite a small field and only 33 finished. It didn’t help my mood that the whippet at the front ran a sub 3 race, lapping me on two occasions. That being said, I also lapped a couple twice as well, so he must have done them 4 times. It was laps of Caldecott Lake in MK and I entered really as part of the drive to get to 100 marathons next year. I prefer races where the scenery changes and there is something new to occupy your mind when the going gets tough. There were positives. It was local, I was able to rock up just before the start and was back home in time for a late lunch. There was water and nibbles every 4 miles or so and I finished. 

Paul Owen - 4:21:20

October 2017

Beachy Head Marathon - Saturday 28 October

Day 757 of my current running streak, marathon number 85 to date and the 25th of the year so far for me. This time it was the turn of Beachy Head, with the steepest start to any race I have ever done. Within 40 feet most of the field were walking the first of many, many inclines. The course went up or down the entire way, with next to no flat sections and all on trail. The views justified the climbs and the weather Gods were kind to us. It got blustery up top, but the spirit among the runners was good, aided by plenty of water stops with goodies including sausage rolls and boxes of mars bars. I even joined in with the band at one check point, well at least for the paparazzi snaps. The last 6 miles were along the coastal path, atop the Seven Sisters. Boy, those siblings are beautiful but exhausting and just as hard going down as up. Just 3 Flyers made the long trip down to the seaside and I came third behind Chris and Mark who sprinted off down the last steep hill leaving me coughing in all the dust he kicked up. It was on the whole a lovely, scenic course, with plenty of aid stops and a field of runners all the way which meant navigation wasn’t an issue. I am running so many marathons at the moment, my legs are generally tired all the time. I might well come back and give this a proper go next year. The race organisers say add 45 mins onto your normal road time. I suspect an hour is more accurate. Not a course for a PB, but one to be enjoyed.

Paul Owen

3 Counties XC Race 1: Wellingborough - Sunday 26 October

The first Three Counties cross-country fixture 1 took us to Wellingborough where the Flyers rocked up with a great turnout of 57 runners plus helpers and supporters. A tweak to the course meant the largest ditch was removed but rather than make this easier, it meant we had an additional technical section with a triple up/down hill section and an additional long stretch into the wind. After another mild summer with many road races this was a big test as the course was both "undulating" and quick with still the joy of ditch clearing and not being able to rest on laurels and having to carry on driving the legs forward.

All of the Flyers though performed admirably, demonstrating the progression across the board. Pat Godfrey, Dave Sedgely, Nicola Wilkins, Louise Wilkins, Steve Gibbons, Charlene Halpin, Becs Fleckney, Paresh Aaktar, Denise Browning, Richard Gale, Sally Sawkins, Lisa Wells, Simon Wilkins, Hattie King, Mark Billington, Caroline Gilby, Fraser Geddes, Tank Hardwick, Chris Newnham, Stephen Mullins, Ross Henson, Phil Mead, Warwick Browning, Richard Stanley, Jeremy Godfrey, Ian Halpin, Phil Holland, Paul Farmer and Tim Harris all improved on last years position at Wellingborough with excellent gains confirming their progression over another discipline. In addition we welcomed a sea of cross-country debutantes including two Sophie Windmill and Joe Strange who were part of the scoring team. We also welcomed couch to 5k graduates to the team.

At the fore of the race was Tim Harris who after a lull in his running in the Spring/Summer proved that form is temporary and class is eternal and was back like a duck to water (though his photo showed potential to improve on his water crossing) re-stamping his authority on the country for a great win. Tim lead the men to a resounding team victory supported by Max Dillon, Pete Benedicter, Paul Farmer, Joe Strange, Ian Halpin, Mark and Phil Holland.

The ladies despite having approximately 8 runners missing who had been multiple scorers for the team historically worked really hard and ran excellently with Hattie, Caroline Gilby, Sophie and Lisa Wells bringing the team home in 5th place. In the overall combined competition we were 3rd team and the 6 points we finished ahead of 4th was a strong example of how every place counts and the benefit of all runners seeking to push opposition down a place.

Big thanks to Phil Bierton and Richard Jones for doing the scoring, Martin Godin and the supporters including Samantha Walters, Shelly Harris, Finley Harris, the family Holland and the photography skills of Caroline O'Mahoney. Thank you to Mark Billington for driving Barry home after his calf injury. In addition to the great performances in the race, it was an excellent day of Flyers supporting each other with lots of laughs through the pain and drive of the cross country. This was another great advert for a great club.

I hope overall everyone enjoyed the experience even if there were a number of challenging moments out on the course. Please use this as a further catalyst to kick on and continue the improvement. In addition to cross country the overall strength gained will help road and it is good to participate where it is more on positions than times. The next cross country is 12th November Wootton. Lets seek to improve further together both as individuals and team. Your continued support and teamwork is really appreciated. Well done to you all.

Julie and Mark

Cyclo-cross, Milton Keynes - Saturday 21 October

November's Outdoor Fitness magazine featured an article on new  cyclo-cross bikes, so I thought I would give it a go, especially as the CX Central League allows MTB’s. The MK Bowl was transformed into a snaking cycling arena, with many races from Boys/Girls U8 to male Vet 50+(lovingly referred to by the commentator as Old Gits). Some races are grouped together, so MV40~49 race with juniors (possibly under 21). Male V50+ rode with senior women. I had a great first ride but soon realised that CX riders are super fit.

The start is like a F1 grid( good scoring riders start closer to the front) and not surprisingly incidents and likely to happen at the first bend, it did for me I fell off, after that it was simply head down and hang on to  the finish. I averaged 10:12 for 4 x 2.4km laps, the winner was clocking 7:43, the Men’s Seniors were sub 7min. Any way not being demoralised I hope to give Shuttleworth a go next and my future target is to keep sufficiently in touch to allow me to complete a final lap before the 40min time cut off.

54th out of 66 with 4 laps completed(40:50); Winner 5 laps completed in 38:35

Mike Petty

Lisbon Marathon - Sunday 15 October

Three years ago (2014) Mrs H and I both had entries for this coastal marathon, along with our friends Simon and Mike.We were also joined by Mike’s wife Sylvia and friend Richard. Karen and I where both suffering with bad colds so for once we listened to our bodies and supported our friends instead (as well as enjoying the sunshine and beer!).

The route follows the coast (after a loop) from Cascais to Lisbon and for supporters also follows the train line - it’s really easy to jump on and off the train and support your friends. I always wanted to go back and Mike had wanted to go back to do the route justice having been injured on the run up to his first marathon - the 2014 event. So Mike and I along with supporters Mrs H, Sylvia and Richard all piled over to Cascais (the start of the marathon). It is a pretty scenic run for the first 30 odd kilometres before it runs into the suburbs of Lisbon (it being a point to point race) and undulating for the first third. The current route sends you initially along the coast (away from Lisbon) before turning round and coming back through Cascais and on to Lisbon. This initial loop gives you that rare opportunity in a marathon (albeit early on) to see the front of the race coming back to you (we were at 4k when they where at 8!) and also the back end of the race - we were at 7k and he was at 5k. Certainly lets you know your place in the race!

To be fair we had never really set any goals and I’d spent a bit to much time focussed on the Etape du Tour cycle ride in the Alps and then a week or so cycling in Switzerland. The marathon really needed to be a month further away. Having said that I just wanted to be a bit quicker than my last marathon (London 2016 - 4.43). Training, such as it was, said we were in the ball park.

Come the day come 30 degree heat! We started off fine (it’s an 8am start) and we were happy(ish) just in front of the 4.30 group. However come about 14k in and after a few testing slopes we were both wanting to ease up and by the halfway mark it was starting to become obvious that it was going to be tough - half the water was going in us the other half over us! Mike took a bit of a prolonged water stop at about 23k and I sort of plodded on. I was pleased to meet up again with the support group and to get a cap. At 30k I was a few minutes over 3 hours. Here however the course moved away from the coast and the cooling breeze. Not sure if it’s the heat (not good in the heat and suffered sunstroke cycling a few years ago - not nice!), ran out of energy or not enough training but the last 8k was very hot, painful and slow.

Very glad to finish and glad to have snuck under London - 4.38 (Mike finished about 7 minutes later and an hour quicker than 2014).  Maybe it’s time for the North European Capital City marathons having now done Madrid, Lisbon, Rome, Paris, Florence....

Richard Hollingsworth - 4:38:26

Birmingham International Marathon - Sunday 15 October

A week after my double Barrow and time for the inaugural Birmingham International marathon, which meant as far as I could tell they had people enter from places like Dudley. The organisation and route need improving. The start of the race at 8.30am was too early for those travelling to the event on the day from further afield. I had to leave home at 5.15am to get to the 7am bus pick up. We arrived at the stadium 10 mins later and then had to wait outside for 1hr 20 for the start.  Far too early. They did have a second wave starting an hour later, which I later learned was for those with a slower predicted finish time. The first section of the course was undulating along a duel carriageway involving under and over passes. At around mile mile 7 we started a large loop, which we returned to at around 15 1/2 miles and had to run it again. The major problem with the second loop, was we joined into the throng of the second wave and instantly the road became awash with runners who were running slower than I was. In places the road became very narrow for sections and it was hard to overtake. If you were running around 3.30-3.45 pace you would probably miss the main pack, but I wasn’t and hit it full on.  The second wave needs to start 90 mins later or lose the double loop. It was a little dull doing it twice, through an area that wasn't that nice. This was probably the worst designed section of a race I have been in. There were some ok sections in the race and the finish was quite nice in the city centre. There was a lot of support on the course which was good and a lot of runners at the end, as the half marathon started at 1.30pm which was an odd time, presumably to get the marathon runners out of the way.

Paul Owen - 3:57:36

Great Barrow Marathon Challenge - Sat/Sunday 7/8 October

Almost stepping off the plane from Florida and running a double marathon weekend wasn’t, with hindsight, the best of plans. The Barrow events area based in Suffolk and use a variety of routes including trail, road and a mix of both. The two weekend races were both on tarmac and consequently were a little duller than normal. Mark Rouse was too unwell to run and Paul Barton went finishing instead on day one, so I was on my own and ran both races with just me, myself and I for company. I felt tired and jet lagged on day one, but by day two it hit me badly. I was shattered and should have stayed in bed, but I’m on a mission to get to the 100 and that got me there. As a result, day two was a lot slower and I was so far back, even the race director asked me at one point if I was ok! These events are low key, reasonably priced at about £30, nice medals with lots of checkpoints stocked with food and water (4 on day one and 5 on day two). They probably appeal to the more seasoned marathon runners who are looking for quieter events than the often over priced big city runs but there was a first time marathon runner at one of the events.

Paul Owen - 4:36:45 & 5:34:36

Chester Marathon - Sunday 8 October

This was the 4th time I have run the Chester marathon (and the last, promise). They also offer a metric option (26.2km) for those not wanting to run the full, an offer that was taken up by my wife Lorraine. A well organised event on a scenic route taking in part of Wales. There were a few hills on what is an undulating course, most notably just before miles 5, 16 and again at mile 24. I trained hoping to dip under 3.20 and was chuffed to finish in 3:19:45 (according to the official results). Lorraine ran the furthest she has EVER run in her life. She never stopped and finished with a smile on her face (quite possible a grimace) in a time of 3.06.20 which was a fantastic achievement. To celebrate we had a post marathon roast (dinner that is).

Many thanks to all the support received from my fellow flyers both during the 4 months of training and the post marathon messages. When I joined the club back in 2011 I was tipping the scales at just under 16 stone (all muscle probably) and could barley manage 5k. Fast forward 6 years and I have clocked times/distances I never thought achievable.

Philip Horan

Lanhydrock Park Run - Saturday 7 October

It was great to run with Mrs Annie Page again in her local park run, a tough course with a cracker of a hill - glad its not my home event thats for sure! although beautiful scenery round these parts! more or less straight to the pub after the rehydrate and refuel! Annie says hi to all that remember her and she is enjoying cornish life immensely!

Becs 34:48

September 2017

MK (NSPCC) Half Marathon - Sunday 24 September

A 2 lap event, billed as flat, the organisers clearly lied. It was also an unexpectedly warm day but despite the heat, I set of to run somewhere around the 1:30 mark. My pacing turned out well so rather chuffed with the end result of a cheeky PB. The route wasn't as exactly billed and I couldn't find cake anywhere but not a bad event overall. Roll on Standalone.

Scott Huntley - 1:27:58 (PB)

ROC Mountain Marathon - Sat/Sunday 23/24 September

I persuaded Jo to join me only a couple of weeks before this event as my original partner dropped out and I had already done a stupidly tough solo mountain marathon in July and didn't fancy another one (own worst enemy and all that). Anyone who runs with Jo will be aware that she doesn't do long distances so she did amazingly well to cover approximately a full marathon plus 1780m of climb over the two days on the fells on no training. This year's venue was South West Lakes near Broughton in Furness - not that we saw much scenery on day one as visibility was down to a few metres most of the time on the fell tops. Surprised myself with how accurate my navigation was given we were running on bearings on featureless bogs and fells. Day two was very different, with excellent visibility so I let Jo loose with the map and compass, and we still didn't get lost. No arguments or sense of humour failures at all though I know Jo was finding it tough going towards the finish, but we were still smiling when we crossed the line.

I had agreed we would aim to complete, not compete, so pretty chuffed with fourth in our class (which was won by Jasmin Paris, Britain's greatest female ultra/fell runner, and her mum - so in some pretty elite company!)

Caroline Gilby/Jo Aatkar Short Score 480 pts 4th FV team

Leighton Buzzard 10M (Club Champs) - Sunday 17-September

As a creature habit I tend to do the same races every year and the Leighton 10 is no different, it's a great local gutsy hilly race, after my Ironman only 7 days prior it was going to make it even more of a challenge but I tend to recover very quickly and I felt ok going into the race. I loved the race and kept a steady pace throughout and it was soon over. Happy to say my efforts were rewarded with 1st in age group and 1st county age group champ. My wife debs also came 1st in age group so happy family travelling home.

There were some impressive performances amongst the AFF Ian Halpin and Richard Gale making great personal improvements. Paul farmer making easy work of the race and earning club champ. Well done all flyers who ran.

Martin Beare

Bob Graham Round - Sat/Sunday 11/12 September

In 1932 a certain Bob Graham set the record for most Lakeland fells covered in 24 hours. Whilst the record has risen over time, the Bob Graham round has become an iconic challenge covering 72 miles, 27000 feet of climbing and 42 of the highest peaks in the Lake District. To become a member of the Bob Graham 24 hour Club you simply have to start from Keswick, do the round (with someone with you at all times) and get back within 24 hours. So far about 2200 people have achieved that and my objective was to join the club.

I have done a few races up in that area but did not know the full route too well. Rather than spending some months, reconnoitring the route, I had enlisted the help of a mountain guide and runner, Charlie Sproson in order to just turn up and do it. However, three days beforehand Charlie suggested I postpone as the weather had been and was forecast to be very wet and windy. Foolishly I decided to go ahead anyway.

The two of us set off on Monday night at 7.35pm and soon found that conditions were going to be tough – high winds on Skiddaw, knee deep bogs and rivers on Great Calva and wet rock on the descent from Blencathra. However we completed the first section in 4 hours (on schedule) and had a top up of food and drink from the back of a car (the route crosses four roads and my son and his girlfriend were our roving support crew). The second section heading south over the Dodds and Helvellyn is the most difficult section mentally as your body knows it should be tucked up in bed rather than stumbling around in the middle of the night with 3m of visibility. However 12 peaks and 4 ½ hours later after some Jedi-like navigation from Charlie we dropped down to our second road crossing for more food/drink.

We continued onwards and upwards, though the bogs to the Langdale pikes (dawn at last) and onto the rocky section from Bowfell, along to Scafell and down to Wasdale. However, by this stage conditions under foot were taking their toll and I was half an hour behind schedule and struggling with my nutrition. Charlie passed the baton to Dale Colclough who now took over the pacing and navigation as we climbed up Yewbarrow and around the skyline towards Steeple. At this stage the wind and rain became more intense and this made it a bit more difficult to claw the time back. As we reached our final road crossing at Honistor I was an hour behind schedule and had no chance of getting back inside 24 hours. However, we decided to grind out the full course albeit in a time that was slower than planned.

As per normal in this kind of event, I ended up losing a few toe nails and gaining a bit of hypothermia but was pleased with the outcome given the conditions. I may go back for another attempt at sub 24 hours – but only if the weather is going to be kind!

Phil Wolstencroft 26:05

Farnham Pilgim Marathon – Sunday 10 September

Day 710 of my running streak and it was the turn of Farnham Pilgrim for my 21st marathon of the year and 81st overall. Getting excited now as I'm in the teens and counting down to the 100. The race was in Surrey Hills which is an area of outstanding beauty, just like my running partner Mark Rouse. The organisers said it was going to be hilly and tough and they didn't disappoint. Early on Mark said we are heading up Marthas passage, which wasn't something I was expecting on a checkpoint. Normally its sweets and water, but it was Surrey and they are a close knit bunch down there. Turns out Marthas passage was a steep trail and it was closed, so we headed up another even steeper trail. Mind you at the top it was worth it, as the vista at the top was outstanding. The race was probably 90% on trail with the concrete sections on the whole very quiet and spread out. We kept the pace steady in the first half, which was fortunate as it became a roll coaster in the second, but a nice one at that.

There were more marshals, race photographers and waters stops on the course than in any other race I have ever done. The route was as a result very easy to follow and we did the lot without any instructions. We took it easy and walked all the steep hills - no real choice - which meant at the end we were both still full of running, overtaking loads with mile 25 being the fastest of the race apparently. The secret racer than is Mr Rouse picked the pace up as we turned into the filed for the finish and before I knew it, the sly old dog was off without a word. He had a good ten feet on me before I realised and I pressed the button and tried to catch him up, which brought a photo finish and cheers from the crowd. We ended up with the exact same chip time, but in the photo finish my belly just pipped Marks slender torso and the organisers put me in the official results before Mark. Who would have thought 21 marathons and the biggest problem I’m having is I’m putting weight on? Still, worked to my advantage in this one lol. Top race and one well worth doing next year for the views alone.

Paul Owen

Ironman, Wales - Sunday 10 September

I chose this race as my qualifying event in an attempt to get to the world Ironman championships in kona Hawaii. The process is quite demanding as you have to finish 1st or 2nd in your age group with a healthy amount of athletes in each group. I picked Wales as it's the toughest course in the world and suits my style of racing and my body size and power to weight ratio. However race day threw an even bigger challenge the weather, it rained heavily for much of the bike but the biggest challenge was the high winds gusting 55mph at times and in addition to the wet slippery roads made it very dangerous at times. After 112 miles of Welsh hills I was relieved to get off that bike in one piece. The marathons was equally hilly but I had a job to do and that motivated me to plot out a 3.40 marathon which thankfully was good enough for me to get the win, my splits where supplied by Richard Jones who then fed this to my debs who in turn shouted them to me on each lap, the plan worked a treat and I went from 7th to 1st on that marathon.

This result was a dream come true as it's a triathletes goal to get to Kona in Hawaii the home of triathlon. I have now got my place in the World `Ironman championships in 2018. One happy chappy.

Massive thanks to my wife debs for all the help and support and caring for all my needs thought training and race day and putting up with my mood swings on days leading up to race day as I always feel the pressure I put on myself. I had hundreds of messages before and after the race which I was so touched by thank you to everyone's support I am so grateful and lucky.

As my triathlon season has now finished I am looking forward getting back to running and catching up with all my mates at the mighty AFF.

Martin Beare - 11:58:30 1st M55-59

Bedford Marathon - Saturday 2 Sep

I entered this half as prep for my goal race which is the Chester Marathon on October 8th. John Decesare stepped in at the last minute as chief pacer as I attempted another tilt at the elusive sub 1.30 half (my previous best effort being 1.33.29). Some good flyers support out on course and encouragement on course saw me achieve my goal. Some very good results for the many flyers who ran.

Phil Horan - 1:29:46

August 2017

Ridgeway Challenge (86 mile Ultra) - Sat/Sunday 26/27 August

Last year I'd entered this event but I DNF'd at the halfway stage, my first ever DNF in a race. It later transpired that I had a large volume of sand in my private parts, and I'd been running with a hernia which played a small part to me feeling horrendous from mile 20 onward. Anyway, I beat myself up for months about withdrawing. Fast forward to early 2017 and I'd had a small operation, recovered and was running a lot more with the club; my running was in fact on an upward spiral. I therefore entered this event again to silence some evil demons (it had nothing to do with an empty bottle of wine).

Some 200 runners convened on Ivinghoe Beacon on 26th August and the aim was simply to run to The Avebury Stone Circle in under 26 hours. The route is as varied as it is long and of course, the hours of darkness are suffered by all (regardless of extra terrestrial abilities).

Having learned huge lessons last year and this year bringing a modest support crew (fiance and puppy), I set off in a calm and rational fashion. It also being a very hot day, this added to my reasons to remain steady throughout. I managed to get to half way (Goring on Thames) in under 8 hours and in daylight. Following this, the second half was 90% dark, had to be very deliberate (on account of the rough footpaths) and was full of cake. Day broke as I was on the last leg home and I finally crossed the line in 18:15.00hrs (official time TBC at time of writing).

The previous year, every footstep had been laboured and a mental effort. This year, a changed mental attitude, race approach and steady build up allowed me to (mostly) enjoy all of this event. Superb checkpoints, an exceptionally well marked route and a glorious traverse of an entire national trail meant that I was finally able to put a pin in this one. It's worth while even if you just walk the entire distance (certainly manageable with the cut offs).

I shall now be most eating copious amounts of cake prior to my next session with the club...

Scott Huntley- 18:14

Hertwood Forest Park Run, Sandridge - Saturday 26 August

I have to confess I'm not a great supporter of the Park Runs at least Luton and Bedford where you circulate the park 2/3 times! However, my sister told me about a new one that had recently started (4th week) in the Heartwood Forset, Sandridge near my old hunting ground of St Albans. Located between Wheathampstead and Sandridge it is totally off-road and is set in a recently developed Woodland Trust area of some 347-hectares. Apparently when fully planted, it will be the largest continuous native forest in England.

You meet in the main car park and then a short walk to the start where the first K. unfortunately is up-hill. However, what goes up must come back down with a nice run in to the finish. Its 2-laps but uses the trails and paths in the Forest. Well worth a visit especially those Flyers who run the St Albans Park Run - this is less busy (128 finishers) and a much more attractive setting. No Park Run apparently this week (2nd Sept) but thereafter at 9.00 every Saturday.

As for my run less said about that the better - a slow 25.56 and now running slightly over 8 minute a mile - when will my decline falter!!

Dave Stanley 69th  25:56 (1st Vet 65)

Thames Meander Marathon - Saturday 12 August

Day 677 of my running streak and an unusual 30 mile double - a 9am parkrun followed by a 10am Thames Meander marathon, which was my 19th of the year and 79th overall. I’m aiming to get to 100 next year, which is why I’m doing so many. I hadn't pre-entered and turned up early to do so. As I waited, a chap mentioned there was a parkrun about to start from the same place. After a quick dash to the car to get an emergency barcode, off I went. I Kept it slow and I did get a few odd glances as I had my marathon number on. The route was exactly the same as the marathon, along the Thames, reaching a turnaround and back. After the run I had 36 mins to kill and kept moving slowly, so as to not cramp. Duly warmed up, the said marathon followed. The route was all along the Thames heading from Ham towards Kew, Richmond and Hampton court. The first section was quite scenic, running past various boats, moorings, pubs, under various bridges and with some London landmarks visible from a distance but unfortunately there was a dull section in the middle that lasted 10 miles and I admit to getting bored. Even though the Thames was next to me, for that section we ran along mostly enclosed gravel paths with trees and overgrown shrubs blocking the view. We ran through a couple of tourist spots and at one point I was dodging the camera brigade for about two miles. Having given up vino and related liquid consumables, it was quite a surprise at 19 miles to get a real bad attack of cramp that eventually added 35 mins to my finish time. I can drink 5 pints, vino and eat a curry before a marathon (as I have a number of times this year) and not get cramp, yet when I stick to soda water I get the leg wobbles for the first time in some years. I might have to rethink pre race hydration. The final stretch was tough. At the start that sent us off a mile in one direction and then we came back to the start, before carrying on. At the end we had to do the same again and it was tough to run past the finish on knackered legs and still have two miles to go. Promised more than it delivered. Nice medal at least.

Paul Owen

Cowman Middle Distance Triathlon -Sunday 6 August

This was my last race before my big race (Ironman Wales) and I was using this race as a hard brick training session. I usually do this race as it's a great tough local course based in Olney, Bucks. I pushed right from the start and wanted this race to hurt me in an attempt to prepare me for the pain I will experience in Wales.

Jensen Button the F1 driver, had also decided to use this race as prep for his half ironman race in Bahrain the middle east as he explained to me. In short I had a good trouble free race finishing an hour ahead in my age group. It's head down now for my last few weeks of big mileage in training. (100 mile hilly bike rides with 22 mile runs off the bike). Not forgetting regular 4k swims in the lake.

Martin Beare 4:43:32

July 2017

From Here To There And Back (27M LDWA) - Sunday 9 July

I felt ok before the start of this race, but it didn't last. Satnav and I started with Chris Newnham, but at mile 3 he was off. This was a self navigating, almost entirely trail run put on by the LDWA. The route in various places was heavily overgrown and lots of tikes, we were reduced to walking and often wading through collapsed crop. Luckily, Satnavs encyclopaedic knowledge of the different varieties of crop kept my mind fully occupied. To the point in fact where we went wrong twice and ended up doing about 29 miles (which was better than Chris who did 31 miles). Towards the end, we caught up with Becs and Paul Barton and it would be fair to say we were all very glad to finish.

Paul Owen

Bedford Park Run - Saturday 8 July

A PW which had nothing to do yesterdays marathon. It was my daughters first ever proper race and we ran it together. She ran all the way and beat me by a second. My pride in her achievement even let me get over the fact that I was lapped by Phil Horan.

Paul Owen - 33:02

Newham Great London 10K - Sunday 2 July
I did this race in 2016 and when I saw this year's fell on my 65th birthday I thought what a great way to kick the day off. I entered Terry for some company but a year on I didn't bank on the fact we were both be carrying hamstring injuries. In Terry's case he has hardly run since the London Marathon. Nevertheless, with the iconic nature of the course - the finish on the Olympic Track - it was an injury worth hobbling round for! Because of the high entry numbers runners are set off in time waves (we were on the first start of the day). The race starts outside of the stadium by the ArcelorMittal Orbit Slide - the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide (114.5m) and the UK’s highest freefall abseil, the ArcelorMittal Orbit is a viewing experience like no other. We are then taken around the roads of the Olympic Park, past the other Olympic venues before eventually bringing us back towards the Stadium. At 9K runners are taken around the warm up track before entering the concourse of the stadium to do a 3/4 lap before entering into the main stadium at the top of the home straight to run the final 100m to the finish. At the end of the day I was more than pleased with how my run went as it was all about enjoying the London Olympic experience. Having crossed the line I was fortunate to be congratulated by Jo Pavey who I then blurted out that this was my 65th birthday run! Embarrassing to say the least but but we then did quickly discuss my deteriorating running times over the years (I have a PB of 36mins) but I did wish her well for 2017 knowing she still hoped to qualify for the world's 10,000m - she recently ran a sub 33 at 43 year's of age!
Although Terry and myself had run the race conservatory both setting new PW's, the main thing was that we had got round OK albeit a little sore. The target now is to try and sort the injuries out and then both get fit for the cross country season. Dave Stanley

Lakeland 110K - Saturday 1 July

I am planning on doing the Bob Graham Round in the next couple of months and so I was using this race as a training run. My prospective pacer for the BGR had told me that 15 hours for this particular race would be a good idea and so I set off with this in mind. The race starts at midnight and heads out from Ambleside to the East and then north along fairly rocky paths. It avoids the peaks and instead follows some lesser trod valleys and over cols. I took it fairly easy to start with as I didn’t want to break any bones in the dark. The descent to the second aid station at Haweswater proved to be a bit tricky underfoot but I managed to reach daylight without too many scrapes and bruises. Navigating was fairly easy as the paths were marked apart from a 12km stretch to Patterdale during which I saw absolutely no one. I am not sure if this was the work of an irate farmer or someone forgetting to mark this section. Fortunately I had the gpx on my watch and despite a few concerns stayed on track. At the half way stage I was 40 minutes behind schedule but since I was moving up the field I kept focussing on catching the next person up. At the 80km stage I got overtaken for the first time in 60km. 5k later someone else came past and so I decided to hang on with him and get the race finished. This proved to be a good strategy and although he beat me in the last 400m, our mini-competition had pushed us on and I beat my target by 9 minutes and finished a respectable 15th. All in all a decent day out and plenty of time afterwards to have a few beers.

Phil Wolstencroft 14:51:44

June 2017

Great Barrow Marathon Challenge - Thursday 26 June to Saturday 8 July

29th June - 5:19:50. This is an event that attracts marathon addicts. Based in Barrow, near Bury St. Edmunds in Surrey, you can enter 10 marathons in 10 days, or individual races. Each of the runs is over the marathon distance and tended to be 26.5, and for the hardcore there was a 10 in 10 32 mile ultra challenge as well. I chose 5 of the marathons, with LDWA marathons on the weekends before and after to bring up 7 marathons in two weeks. Sounds odd, but I didn't think I was fit enough to enter all 10 and 7 seemed like a happy compromise. Fellow trainee addicts Richard Satnav Jones, Mark Rouse and Becs Fleckney also signed up for various races which meant there was only one I ended up running on my own. Fully qualified addict Paul Barton entered two as well. Mark originally signed up for 3 and ended up doing 5. There were 5 routes over the 10 days, mostly a mix of quiet country roads and trail which broke it up a little as unlike some of the 100 clubbers who were there, I hadn't run them before. There was a camping option, meals on site and a bar. I kept it steady for the first one knowing what was ahead, walked the hills and let Mark take the honours (well technically he left me and Satnav at mile 3 and was long gone).

30th June - 5:34:29. After a night under the stars in my little tent, the smell of bacon woke me. About an hour after a blooming cockerel had done that earlier. The second marathon is always harder to get going and after another mix of trail and road, I was relieved to finish in what would me my slowest time of the week. The route took in Thetford forest, with a fair amount of rusted, dusty trails to conquer and a few mentally challenging long sections. An undulating six mile road section at the end ensured the legs knew they had been in a race. Mark kept me honest on this one, but I probably slowed him down.

3rd July - 3:54:15. My best run of the week, which rather unbelievably secured me a second place finish. Having had two days off (albeit with a daily run to keep the streak going), I felt surprisingly fresh on the Monday morning. As I was on my own, I decided to pick the pace up a tad and slowly became conscious I was passing people and no one was passing me. I began to reel in runners, on what was an undulating course with a half and half mix of trail and road. I expected the wheels to fall off, but they never did. As the miles grew, I felt in good nick and resolved to pop in a sub 4 (which would have been the equivalent of around a 3.30 road marathon). I was still rather surprised to be told by the race director as I crossed the line I had come second.

4th July - 4:51:47. As predicted, after another night under the stars and a bacon and egg buttie for race nutrition, I paid the penalty for the previous days antics. Having said that, this was the same course as on the 30th June, so to pop in a time 42 mins quicker was a relief on a day when it was very warm.

7th July - 4:48:05. By now the legs were feeling the brunt of the mileage and this was a lets just get it done run. The route wound its way into Newmarket along the busiest roads of all the courses. There were a number in the first half that were very long and straight and I found this route the most difficult of them all. A very long uphill climb at mile 17 really tore into my already tired pins and I have Satnav to thank for just keeping me going.

Paul Owen

Herts Hobble - Sunday 25 June

Day 601 of my current daily streak, 12th marathon of the year and the first of 7 planned in the next two weeks. I like a challenge. As marathons go, the Herts Hobble 26.5 (so technically an ultra lol) LDWA event is on the easier end of the scale. Rolling green countryside, self navigating but with great instructions, 4 checkpoints with lots to drink and loads of food, friendly chat from the compact entry and a few mates to chill the time away. I left my watch off and didn't ask what the time was once, save on the way to the event as I had overslept, didn't have time for breakfast and needed to use the conveniences to leave last nights sumptuous repast at the start. There was food galour at the checkpoints and plenty of hot and cold drinks, which meant I spent so much time at each, I probably added an hour to my overall time but that wasn’t an issue. I let the sprightly Chris Newnham go at 16 miles which was a wise move, as he was 25 mins quicker than me over the last 10.5 miles and I needed to conserve my energy. I finished with my legs feeling ok and almost ready to do some more. Almost. Great to see six Flyers at this event, which at a cost of £8 was ridiculously cheap.

Paul Owen, 5:27

Silsoe Stride - Sunday 25 June

I thought, after running in the "Hot" weather at the GSR relay last weekend, I would have a go at this local race at Wrest Park. The race started at 9.45, after the usual warm up and briefing etc, and Ian Halpin raced off like a steam train, and was a good 50 yds in front of the next runner by the time we reached the turn to go out to he woods (about 1/2 mile in !).. He stayed in front all the way and duly came home in front.

My race was a steady plod around the route, with no chance of getting lost, and, as a result of a "marshalling problem" was running back in with some of the 10k runners - who had been sent on the wrong route.... Most of the circuit was flat, apart from a short uphill around 2-3k point. Nearly all on tracks, except the final 600 yards along the main driveway to the finish.

My finishing time was 32.16 , coming 74th out of 148 runners. Also, I was First MV60 / with 7 others running - but alas no prize...

I would recommend this race to people , being good for a first timer at 5k. A Good Race, friendly marshalls, but the news will certainly be made regarding the 10k runners being sent on wrong route..

Keith Morgan

Cardiff Olympic Triathlon - Sunday 25 June

Was so chuffed with this time... Was aiming for 3 hours and I'd trained well and was confident - but was much faster than I'd hoped in all 3 disciplines!

I'm fairly sure the swim was short - I'm a confident swimmer but I've never got anywhere that sort of time for 1500m. It was in the sea so not sure the tide helps! (The waves certainly didn't help... but I consumed enough water to keep hydrated for the whole race!). The bike course was flat and I was powering round faster than I'm used to, but I'd done enough in training to know my legs were handling it so kept on. My legs were slightly tiring by the end so I intentionally slowed a bit in the last few miles anticipating the run. My legs felt good almost immediately off the bike, which is unusual! I clock watched for the first mile to check I wasn't going too fast, but after a mile I was still running faster than planned and feeling good, so I didn't look at the watch again and just went with it! I felt good the whole way round the run until the last mile where my legs got heavy and started tightening up... but who cares by then, its only a bit to go and I already knew I was finishing much better than expected - so just grin and bear it!!!

The run course was short too (at least 1/4 of a mile), so 47 minutes wasn't quite a 10k effort, but I still kept under 8mm the whole way which was faster than I've done for years, in or out of a triathlon. So satisfying when everything goes right in training and on the day!

Jody Buczynski- 2:29:23

May 2017

Beds RCC Spoco TT Cycle - 2*11.3M - Sunday 28 May

This was my first time attempting this undulating course and it was thoroughly enjoyable (even Hillfoot!), however I got caught at a set of traffic lights on my 2nd lap that popped up unexpectedly! Great to see a few other flyers taking part and some cracking times!

Deborah Beare 1:5:30

Liverpool Rock'n'Roll Marathon - Sunday 28 May

This was a large marathon race, we stood in pens and went off in waves. Each mile there seemed to be either a band or a DJ, the race was well structure and marshalled. I initially had a goal of 9mim, however I had to reconsider this at miles 6, when I really felt worse for wear, I slowed down my pace, made sure I took on water and salts. I found I had to concentrate on my footfall, my breathing and the negative thinking tell me to dnf. I settled in to a good rhythm which took me all the way to 17miles. Here I had to walk, my head was hot and I knew I had to cool down. I picked up the pace and lasted until 22mile before I had to walk again. Redway Runners where very supportive, three passed me and urged me to keep on. The 4.30 running bus passed me and told to get on the end, which I did until 24. I again picked up the pace found a rhythm did a lot of mental counting and got over the finish line. In what had been my most difficult marathon to date. I felt really ill afterwards, not post race sickness. This was extreme headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, abdominal cramps. I found I had contracted the norovirus, (I'm on day two of the norovirus challenge). I will be back next year and the music and bands were brilliant, also I want to try that race again, fit and healthy this time.

Ian Orr Campbell - 4hr 37m

Grafman Middle Distance Triathlon – Sunday 21 May

For those not familiar with Tri distances this was a 1.9k swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run. The venue being Grafam Water. I had been swimming in our local lakes prior to this race (Brogborough and Stewartby) to try and acclimatize myself to the very cold water temperatures lately. I did this race because I won the entry from last year's race and it's very local and it's a good form of training for bigger races this season.

Unfortunately the race referee decided the water was too cold on the morning and reduced the swim to 1 lap for safety.  I found the water fine but got boxed in and couldn't find clear water for some time and made things very frustrating. Swim soon over onto the bike and the same thing in the early stages very busy and congested with athlete's which was dangerous at times.

Days before the race I had invested £200 on a bike fit so was interested in seeing how I got on with comfort and handling etc. With no dramas I was soon back for my half marathon this is my favourite bit because it where I make my way up the leader board, however to my horror I found my lower back had gone into spasm and this didn't sort itself until 10k but I refused to let this effect my goal of an age group win an suffered the pain and kept a decent pace. Long and short of it was a 1st some 14 minutes clear of 2nd.

Thanks to my as ever supportive wife and Ian Haplin for making the trip to support.

Martin Beare – 4.28.11

Wheathampstead 10K - Sunday 21 May

This is one of the those races I've been returning to year after year and it is again surprising that so few Flyers run this race - in fact, I didn't see any this year. Starting on the village green in Wheathampstead it really has a 'carnival atmosphere' to the whole day and incorporates a 2K fun run for children. The 10K race leaves the village green and heads out to join the now disused railway line that used to run from Hatfield to Dunstable. Just before 5K runners are taken off the old track and across surrounding fields taking in the only serious climb just before 6K. Back over the railway bridge at 7K runners are dropped down to follow the footpath alongside the River Lea back to the finish on the Village Green. This is a lovely off road run and despite the heavy rain on Saturday the course was reasonably OK underfoot. Terry had intended to run but pulled out on the day with a recurring hamstring problem. Last year I managed 50.10 but this year I have just struggled with my running since London. Through 5K in 26.40 I did the return 5K in a slightly slower time to finish in 53.46 and was out sprinted by the 2nd V60 finisher to add insult to my run! 3 minutes down - what can I say but a disappointing run on a lovely course

Dave Stanley 53:46 - 3rd V60

Apocalypse 50 - Saturday 20 May

My first ultra in almost a year and the pace, nutrition and hydration seemed to work as I came 3rd (about 70 starters). This is not a bad event to do – 50 miles and 3000m of climbing in the Shropshire hills. About a quarter of it is on roads and it is reasonably easy to navigate. With just one aid station from which four entirely different loops emanate and all the checkpoints being self marshalled (orienteering style clips) there is a certain simplicity about this event which works well.

Phil Wolstencroft 10:32

Nottingham Sprint Triathlon – Saturday 20 May

Entered this in preparation for an Olympic distance triathlon next month. Its a great event – no scenery (if you like that sort of thing) but well organised and a quick course. Swim went well - I feel confident in the water so was happy to go quite hard and not waste too much energy. Bike went well too – a bit quicker than planned, but got into it a bit with 2 other blokes and my competitive side came out ??

I was tired straight off the bike and it took a few minutes to unfold my back and legs into a running shape, but I found a rhythm!! In my last triathlon (last year) I pulled a calf muscle 1 mile into the run and had a very long hobble to the end – and I was still paranoid about that happening again. So, I ran cautiously (and was overtaken by almost everyone) but was happy to finish injury free and running comfortably. Hopefully this is a good sign to get under 3 hours in my Olympic triathlon next month.

Jody Buczynski : 1:18:04

Chicks Chase 10K - Thursday 11 May

Haven't done this one for a few years as it has a bit of a rep for being overpriced for a basic run round a lake but it popped up on my radar and was another race challenge point so couldn't say no..

They've introduced a chaps chase which sets off half an hour after the chicks. I got overtaken by all but one smelly boy. It was a pointless effort but avoiding being overtaken by the last male kept me going for the last couple of kilometres and I managed to keep him at bay. An ok course, nice simple event I could pop along to straight from work. OK medal which you just helped yourself to at the end along with a couple of haribos and a cup of water. There are few more races throughout the year so may do a couple more.

A good idea for the pot hunting couples in the club who could easily wipe the floor in both races and despite the efforts of the organisers the chaps chase didn't have that many runners so a good opportunity for our competitive males to bag a top ten finish if they fancy it!

Rebecca Fleckney 59:58

Kassios Dias Corfu - Sunday 7 May

Denise and I ran this iconic mountain marathon billed as 24k which was exactly 14 miles. The event takes place in and around Kassiopi in north west Corfu. Many top Greek mountain runners come from the mainland to run the event and there were a few Brits including 5 of the Durrell Family TV crew who came back! This is a tough run with 1150 ms of ascent much of which is in the first 10k. There are wooded slopes of 36% with small rope sections to help pull you up, or where they turn down hill keep you from crashing through the trees. Dry stream beds full of big rocks also test you on the way up. Coming down is tough on the knees and quads and the passage down is littered with stones and rock. Delightful bottles of Loux (the local fizzy orange) were a blessing at about half way! Down to the coast just below where we stay and then a rocky up and down path along the coast to a steeply wooded area with another climb tests tired limbs towards the end. A small road and beach section leads to the last but one hill, with a great fast run down and round the Castle peninsula with a steep uphill to run round the ruins of the castle and out into the High Street and harbour to finish. We both feel this is a brilliant race and Denise Who was the oldest lady in the race(!) finished in 3 hrs 56 and was fourth in her age group which was 40+ so a brilliant run. I finished in 2 hrs 47 and was 21 out of 175 and second male vet 55 (3rd oldest in race). Unfortunately the organisers had me in a different age group so I missed a presentation on the podium, but they have corrected the positioning now. Would be great to see some more Flyers out there next year.

Warwick Browning

Stevington 12K - Sunday 7 May

Not absolutely sure why I entered this race, the promise of a nice, scenic, local race with good cake at the end from Becs seems to be the only reasons.

During pre race pace planning with Jess Anstee she mooted a 7:30mm avg.  I didn’t think I’d manage that but decided to give it a go.  We set off around 6mm pace and I very quickly recognised this wasn’t sustainable, it barely was for 400m on the track on Tuesday!  The numerous ‘undulations’ took their toll but I still managed to average around 7:30 pace for the duration.  Happy with that given my more laid back attitude to everything (food, training, racing, alcohol) this year.  Bravo to Jess who maintained her strength throughout and took 1st place, with me trailing in over a minute down to take 2nd.  Few fellow flyers in attendance and was great to see the support from the village for their event, didn’t get to sample the cake though.

Theresa Jackson

Great rolling course through some lovely villages and the sun came out for us. This was the first time I'd run this event and after an exhausting MK on Monday, I thought I'd just enjoy it. That plan went out the window about 3 seconds before the start gun to be honest. I pushed till 6km and then steadied myself and tried to finish confidently. Overall, this result was really pleasing and I'm slowly finding some form after not really having much structured training since the new year.

Scott Huntley

Sandstone Trail Challenge – Saturday 6-May

This was the 3rd time I had run walked this race. From Whitchurch (Shropshire) to Frodsham (Cheshire). The challenge is to find 5 grid referenced checkpoints on and just off the sandstone trail. On the day the organisers give you a fact sheet advising what fields have frisky cattle or stroppy horses and any changes or deviation you must make on the trail.

It was well marshalled by Helsby running club. On arrival at each checkpoint you gave your number and had your ticket punched, there was Cake and drinks and support from the volunteers. The challenge was not a race, however everybody had a time in mind, mine was to beat 9.10hrs my result from the previous year.

I tried to keep an even pace of 11.30 min, and for 14 miles it worked, however tiredness, the climbing (all fours at one point), my running buddy becoming injured, slowed me right down. I shuffled the last two miles, then got lost. This really was a challenge of mind over physical pain.

I sprinted to the finish line, slightly delirious, most definitely cattle trucked, with a pb of 8 hrs 7mins. Everyone claps you when you get in, then they give you pie, all this for £20 quid, such a brilliant event.

Ian Orr Campbell - 8hrs 7mins

April 2017

MK Rocket 5K (Club Championships) - Sunday 30 April

Men			Women
	Mark Waine	17:10		Nicola Bowerman	19:28
V-40	John Decesare	17:17	V-35	Jo Aatkar	21:55
V-50	Nick Jones	17:32	V-45	Caroline Gilby	21:59

What a great race with great support and atmosphere on closed roads, this race left me feeling happy yet somewhat frustrated as at this time of the year I am in my peak phase of triathlon training with some big races only weeks away and I cannot afford to taper for running races and the previous day had been a morning on the bike followed by a gym session in the afternoon therefore happy with a PB. I take my hat off to many AFF for some excellent runs across the board with many PBs too, well done all.

Martin Beare

Blackpool Marathon - Sunday 23 April

My 4th Marathon at age 55. The plan, a sub 3:30 on three runs a week. During training my body was telling me 9 minute miles would be the most sensible option. A faster run than expected at Oakley made me decide to go back to plan A.

So the big day arrived, it was sunny, but a cold and strong wind. Off we went, first mile bang on 8 minutes. Got to about 16 miles on schedule and then legs gradually started to tighten. Back began to hurt and started to become a real issue after about 20. Managed to get to 22 miles on time and then bang my left calf cramped so much I was in real pain every time I lifted the leg. It took me an hour to complete the last 4 miles.

A fellow runner gave me some advice at mile 25. Drop your hands by your sides and shuffle at speed without lifting you legs. If I had known that a mile 22 I think I would have got a sub 4 hour time.

Great medal and the people in Blackpool were really friendly.

Dave Coker 4:00:31

A good sunny day - no crowd support like London but a calming, relaxed sea run with 2 loops of the course finishing with a steep slope at 26!!! Nasty!! But all in all, a very enjoyable experience. I did cheer on a flyer as he passed me running considerably faster than my steady pace but I finished happy and pleased with myself

Justine Goode – 5:28:21

 

	London Marathon - Sunday 23 April
	When I turned 60 I wanted to run one more full marathon. Since then, it has taken me 4 attempts via the ballot process and even then I needed the Club place to finally have the joy of running the London Marathon again. Now 64 this will be my 9th London but as my very last full marathon (number 26) I wanted to enjoy the whole London experience. I was fortunate to have my son run with me, which turned out to be a god send over those final struggling miles. The training had gone well and the 3 x 20 mile races showed that I needed to run at 9 minute pace to achieve my goal of dipping under 4 hours. A time I felt was on the cards as long as I ran those first miles sensibly. I even told so many colleagues of the need to keep that early pace in check as too fast a start can often come back to haunt you in the latter stages! Guess what, I got carried away with the whole London experience. Starting in Pen 1 was great in that it took about a minute to get over the start line but maybe I just couldn't hold myself back enough from the faster runners. I didn't run a 9 minute mile until mile 13 with most of the earlier miles run between 8.35 and 8.50 pace. I was through half way in 1.56.25 some 3 1/2 minutes ahead of schedule but by mile 17 I was starting to tire. The weather was now noticeably warmer and I knew by mile 20 the 'wheels were coming off'. Through 20 in 2.58.12 I could still have been on target for sub 4 but the legs were going. A 10.17 and 11.25 miles were followed by excruciating cramp in both legs forcing me to continually stop and stretch over those final 3 miles. Only the encouragement and perseverance of Terry to 'keep going its not far now Dad' forced me through that so important mental side of running. The crowds were fantastic at this stage giving me huge cheers every time I got going again. Finishing together, arms aloft was a memorable experience and although it was 'a bad day at the office' over those final miles I didn't mind - you can never take away the joy and pleasure I got from running London one more time. Yes it can be difficult as a runner at times negotiating other runners but the iconic nature of London and the incredible encouragement of the crowds made the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end at times. To me it is the number 1 Marathon to run. I first did it in 1983 in 3.04.34 and came back to run it again in 1990 when I did my second of 5 Sub-3 marathons in 2.57.32. The course has been kind to me and this year was the first I struggled but I shall remember it for first running it together with Terry and secondly for the incredible supportive crowds.  Well done to all the other Flyers running and especially to Nicola who narrowly missed out on her sub-3 - it will come Nicola, and to an incredible run by Craig Palmer 2.30.46 has to be the Club run of the year so far. Dave & Terry Stanley 4:16:46
An amazing experience. Knew it was going to be tough from about 15 and at 20 miles the Halpin train truly went of the rails and the wheels spun off emphatically into the Thames. Hardest hour of my entire life followed, couldn't lift my legs, one of the cat eyes in the road looked like a mountain and I couldn't navigate it and tripped it was that bad haha. A walk and jog strategy was immediately put into place to get me to an emotional finish line. Thanks to everyone that donated to LOOK UK I know everyone one of you. Thanks to my support crew on the day Charlene Richard Gale Debbie and Bill and everyone else that I saw on route! Thanks to two amazing people Deborah and Martin Beare for convincing me that running was the right idea, my knee went way after the wheels were already off so thanks for your encouragement, I have absolutely no regrets and I'd run the same race / pace again - my legs just stopped working! And thanks to the many many people that gave me advice along the way to my first go at the distance - especially Mark Waine, George Arbuckle and Jerry Day for expert advice, Barry Stratford Rich and Ashley Larman, Hattie, Alex Anstee, Mark Danger (cheers for letting me steal your hydration belt for training) and every single person that wished me luck. Well done to all flyers and other friends I know that ran today you all did amazing - now for some �� and a big thanks to Craig Palmer the guy that ran a casual 2:30 for his taper plan (which unfortunately I couldn't carry out). Thanks all. Ian Halpin

 

Dave Keeling (1931-2017)

 

Brighton Marathon - Sunday 9 April

My training for this marathon was far from text book due to a nasty acute Achilles tendonitis injury. I only had 6 weeks of training from 2 months of no running. I battled with thoughts of pulling out but eventually thought it would at least be good Ironman training. Any thoughts of getting anywhere near 3hrs seemed a distant dream.

As race weekend arrived it seemed the weather was against me to with the hottest day of the year forecast. However as I have always claimed a race is a race and I had to at least try. I had a funny old start after being put in the wrong start pen (3.30 pace) which started after the (3.00 pace) I ran hard to catch the faster group to then run with them and that pace which was a little ambitious given my lack of fitness. Long and short of it was a surprising sub 3 (2.58.16) chip time.

4th in age group 85th overall so delighted with that and now feel confident with a faster marathon later in the year. I now turn my focus on the new Triathlon season. It was good to witnesses Barry Stratford get his first sub 3 and Roger finish strong.

Martin Beare

Oakley 20 - Sunday 2 April

This was my final 20 mile race leading up to London (thank goodness!) and the plan had been to have a positive run and hopefully finish feeling reasonably strong. I'm pleased to say that as I crossed the finish line some 2 minutes up on my predicted time I was more than pleased as to how the race had paned out. Oakley is an undulating course but in my opinion has only one really tough climb at around 3 miles. Nevertheless, I was trying to keep to around 9 minutes a mile and at 5 miles I was slightly up in 44.36. Through 10 in 88.39 I was still running to schedule but for anyone who has ever run a marathon there will always be those tough miles when you think 'is it all going wrong'. Today that came at 14 miles and its where you need to have the mental toughness to run through it and keep your mind positive that things will improve. The final climb back into Stevington at 17 and I was still struggling but my mile splits were only just over the 9 minute pace. Re-fueling at 17 had helped and as I approached Oakley I felt I was through the worst and back into my pace and starting to feel strong again. The early miles had been run with Ian Orr-Campbell before he had pushed on followed by Katie Ruditis. But at 18 I had first Katie back in my sights and then Ian at 19, passing them both as I pushed on to the finish with my quickest mile splits of the day in 8.25 and 8.17. I was well pleased with my run knowing a similar time at London would give me just over an hour to do that final 10K for my sub-4 - bring it on!!

Dave Stanley 2:58:06

March 2017

Daffodil Dawdle - Sunday 26 March

For anyone not aware the Long Distance Walkers Association (LDWA) put on various events through out the year and throughout the country at various distances up to and probably over 100miles. Some of these are the 26.2mile marathon distance and are open to runners!

You get a route description and have to navigate your way between various village halls via a combination of bridleways, footpaths and roads. Each village hall has a check point but more importantly - cake! These are usually every 5 to 6 miles and there is a certificate and meal at the end - all this (if your are a member) for £10!

I had run the Daffodil Dawdle a couple of years ago when it fell on my birthday. I thought a couple of weeks after the Grizzly I’d have some half descent legs and I do enjoy trail running and navigating. With the cake situation you usually feel like your having a grand day out in the country rather than running a marathon.

Strangely this year the event was in a different place to the one I ran - about 40 miles away! The event started to the south east of Diss in Suffolk and generally weaved back and forward into Norfolk.

Having suffered in the Grizzly with a bad cold I was surprised to get another one straight after (or was it the same one) that continued on and on and on. I was still training with Mr Beecham’s finest (but not running) but thought that a series of staggers between village halls was going to be ok!

The weather was perfect - warm(ish), dry and a gentle breeze. The run started well enough but even after a few miles I knew this was going to be a very long day. Heart rate was really high and I was extremely hot. The first village hall came and went but by the second I was struggling. Soon after the second village hall I caught up with Paul Barton who was running round with some fellow members of the 100 marathon club (all of these guys where well into their 70’s). I tagged along and we walked, talked, ran and eat some cake all the way to the finish.

After a few cups of coffee and some apple crumble I started to feel human again.

It was indeed a grand day out and a great route, well organised and with some great company.

Rick Hollingsworth

Gade Valley Harriers 20 - Marathon Training Run - Sunday 26 March

This was my 2nd of 3 Pre-London 20's and I knew this course would always be a good test of how my training is going. Aiming for 9 minute a mile at London I decided todays run would be at a slower pace of around 9.20 -9.30 a mile. Although the course had 3 long, tough climbs where my average pace dropped I was satisfied with an overall  average time of 9.26 a mile. Also, comparing similar miles from the previous 12 and 17 races I was more than satisfied with these splits. Yes the legs felt tired at the end but as I write this report on Sunday night my recovery has been fine. Oakley may be a stiffer test next week coming only a week after this run - we shall see!!

Dave Stanley 3:08:52

Kielder Dark Skies Marathon - Saturday 25 March

Entry to this race seemed a good idea at the time. A chance to experience the truly dark skies in one of the remotest places in England. So Paul and I headed off to the frozen North. We made it to Backov Beyond where we needed to turn left and carried on for about 20 miles until we reached Noones Herdofit, which was the starting point of the race. The instructions were simply to follow the path with the lake on your right.

We headed off at 5:30 with a spring in our step and I was pleased to see there were no mile markers, a pet hate of mine on trail marathons, where you can just lose yourself in the pleasure of running somewhere you don’t know, without worrying about how far you’ve gone. Even Paul switched off his Garmin! It was a beautiful evening and there was enough to keep us interested until we reached checkpoint 2 at 9 miles where we had to get kitted up for night time running. Headtorch and extra layers were in order as the temperature dropped quite rapidly and the whole world changed.

This was my 76th marathon and there has never been any need for discussion about the worst marathon since we did the Kent Coastal marathon in 2008. That day we had to run straight into a gale for 13 miles mostly along a concrete sea wall. Running doesn’t get any worse than that …. until it gets dark at Kielder.

It’s difficult to describe how bad it was – nothing to look at , no idea where you were and no idea how far you’d run. The best analogy I can think of is that we had a nice run outside for 9 miles, went indoors, got on a treadmill and someone turned the lights off in the room so we couldn’t see any displays on the treadmill. When we’d run 7 miles someone came into the room and gave us a cup of water and a couple of jelly beans then disappeared again. They came in with the same in another 1 ½ miles and then again 7 ½ miles later. At this point they kindly told us that we only had 1 ¾ miles to go.

Thanks to Paul for the company. I don’t think I was much company. There’s an unwritten rule about running marathons – don’t say anything unless you’ve got something positive to say. I hated it so much I had nothing positive to say for at least the last 10 miles. All I was doing was trying to think of reasons why it was better than Kent. I couldn’t think of one. Slept on it and still couldn’t think of one. So it is now officially installed as my worst ever marathon. A treadmill marathon in the light has suddenly become more attractive!

Race Time : seemed like a lifetime. Think I finished the same day I started although I’m not absolutely sure.

Richard Jones

In the interests of balance, I feel I ought to provide my race report on the Kielder Dark Skies night marathon following on from Richard Jones race write up last week. Despite running next to him for over 5 hours I think we were in different races.

Just a mere 600 mile round trip to run around a huge reservoir in deepest, darkest Northumberland. The first 90 mins were in the light and the views were breathtaking, but the clues in the title. When the light goes, it's one of the darkest places in Europe with no light pollution as there is hardly anything there, except one place to stay. It was a clear night and the stars were out in force and utterly majestic. It is difficult to describe just how clear the sky was and the number of stars that covered it, far more than I have ever seen in any other place. Despite that, it was still a dark night and there was very little electric lighting anywhere. The very lumpy, undulating trail followed the reservoir but frequently dived into woods, which brought visibility down to a matter of feet. Both mine and Richard’s head torches lost power with about 8 miles to go, almost at the same time and we were in danger of being in real stook until a very kind Geordie gave me a spare one. Phew. The winding course did mean at various stages you could see lines of head torches across the water in front and behind, as the trail wound in and out along headlands. I thought that was a lovely site but unless someone was next to you, it offered no guidance on the next 20 feet in front of you. With no watch on, I just lost any accurate sense of what mile we had reached at times. I was OK with that, as I've been around it 3 times before and at least had a vague idea of where we might be. Richard on the other hand hated as is self evident from last weeks race description. He chuntered afterwards about it being the worst marathon he has ever run and carried that into his race report. I have run it over an hour quicker in the light and the times did reflect the difficulty. There were 12 DNF’s out of 323 starters and the slowest time in was 7:17 so I suspect others might agree with RJ. The daytime run is better for anyone new to the area, as you do miss the views in the dark. sorry Richard. Still nowhere near as bad as Kent Coastal though.

Paul Owen

Ashridge Boundary Run 16.5 miles - Saturday 18 March

Came across this run a few weeks ago purely by chance and thought what better way to do my long marathon training run than around the countryside of Ashridge and the Ridgeway. It starts and finishes from the Bridgewater Monument at Ashridge. The monument was built in 1832 in memory of the third Duke of Bridgewater who once lived in Ashridge house and ismap dedicated to "the father of inland navigation" because the duke became famous for building canals during the Industrial Revolution.

This year the course was run in an anti clockwise direction and saw runners skirt the villages of Aldbury, Northchurch, Nettleden, Little Gaddesden and Ringshall plus Berkhamstead and Ashridge golf courses and then taking runners up to the Ivinghoe Beacon before heading back to the start along the Ridgeway path, part of the Tring Ridgeway course . At the start I met up with Chris, George and Jess and found myself heading off chatting to Chris for the first half mile. As George and Jess passed me I found myself tempted to hang on their backs for the first 2 miles even passing them both on a downwards section as the course ambled along the Icknield Way Trail . But for me that early fast pace was a big mistake as they soon re-passed me on the first climb and by the time I got to 6 miles I realised I had gone off much to quickly. Despite slowing dramatically, particularly up the numerous climbs and the long section through the 'Golden Valley' I finally managed to re-hydrade myself at the 10 mile water stop point and again picked up my pace as we headed towards the Beacon. With the wind directly in our faces it was a hard slog up to the top and despite a quick descent we were soon climbing yet again in the direction of Pitstone Hill. A 100 metres section of deep squelchy mud was all we needed at the stage and as we descended over the top and down towards Pitsone Hil we were quickly turned left for yet another but final climb back up to the Ridgeway and the final run-in to the finish. By now I was well back in to my running and passing numerous tired runners over the final mile. My last mile split of 8.59 saw me finish just under the 3 hours and overall a satisfactory run.

This was a great run along some beautiful trails and wonderful countryside. It was tough especially the section around the Beacon but thoroughly enjoyable and the finish saw a well earned cup of tea and cake courtesy of the organisers. Will definitely be back next year for this race, which I understand will be run the other way round, so the Beacon will be tackled around mile 3 - bring it on!!

A final thanks to Chris, George and Jess who waited around to cheer me in at the finish.

Dave Stanley

Thaxted Trail Marathon - Sunday 12 March

Day 496 of my daily running streak and Thaxted marathon for number 67 and my 7th marathon in the last 7 weeks. I was knackered early doors and not in the mood, but the race cost me £7.50 and for that you got a free bottle of wine. I had no choice but to do it. I duly met Chris at 7.30am and stopped 12 mins later for the second of five calls of nature. The Essex course was 95% xc dodging flights from Stanstead, self navigating, with no marshals and a start when you want to. There was a rumour that Paul Barton had been spotted but I didn't see him albeit we finished close in time with each other. This was probably one race too far without a break, which is of course exactly why I did it. I had to let the sprightly, fleet of foot Mr Newnham go at 11 miles, as I knew then that the second half was going to be one long slogfest, as it was. Over dressing made me wish I had applied more vaseline. Everywhere. The only things that weren't hurting at the end were my feet, due no doubt to the carefully chosen Holy Daps. For those not on facebook, these are my carefully worn in training shoes with holes everywhere. The course was a bit dull in places - as it was endless skirting around farmers fields without any sign of Joey Essex with the odd windmill chucked in - but for the wonga and vino, it would be rude to be negative.

Paul Owen

Cyprus Marathon - Sunday 5 March

Day 489 of my current daily running streak and the turn of Cyprus marathon for number 66. Not best pre race plans. A late arrival and only place open was a curry house. Well it would be rude not to. One extra spicy and 4 pints later, time to hit the bed as up at 5.45am. So full just over 5 hours later, I decided to miss breakfast completely. Stunning start at Aphrodite's rock with the first main section next to the sea. The course eventually hit a busy main road but plenty to see, before a horrendous section between 28k - 37k involving two long switch backs on a closed duel carriageway. The last 5k took us into Pathos, through busy tourist packed streets, who were enjoying food and beer but supporting us. The end was majestic, finishing in hot, bright sunshine at a medieval fort at the end of a bustling port with Richard and I achieving the exact same finish time. As I sat there soaking up the rays, I asked the current could the end of a race get any better? Yes she said, the beers free for runners. 4 more pints later I had to be prized away. Something about eating, which had slipped my mind.

Incidentally, the organisers also put on a 5k, 10k and half marathon at the same time which attracted a lot of people and gave the end a nice feel. Satnav wouldn’t support a club trip away because of the marathon switchbacks, but apart from that the race had a lot going for it and could be a potential away day next year given the wide variety of races on offer.

Paul Owen

Milton Keynes Festival 20M - Sunday 5 March

My first thoughts when I crossed the line at the end of the Milton Keynes 20 was that's 1 down but I've still got still 2 more 20's to do - somehow!!

I found this hard although my overall objective of just over 9 minute miling was achieved. I liked the format of this series of 4 races that saw runners doing the 20 joining in with runners doing the half at around 2+ miles due to the staggered start. Although mainly flat the wind, especially around Willen, made it tough going. Also, flooding at an under path just after 1 mile meant all runners literally had to wade through ankle deep water - soaking running shoes was all you needed with 18+ miles still to go.

The generally downhill first mile saw me through in 8.24 when I was really looking for just over 9 minutes and although I slowed I was still too quick in my opinion at 5 miles (43.37). Through 10 in 1.28 and 15 in 2.13 I was still ahead of schedule but I was now finding it tough and as we approached the final 3 miles and the tough climb back up to the finish at the Escape my final 3 mile times suffered. Overall, I was satisfied with my finish time of 3hrs 3 particularly as 9 hours on from the run I feel relatively OK. Interestingly, my Garmin clocked it as 469 meters over the 20 miles so I not sure whether there is an issue with the distance or its my watch!

Dave Stanley

February 2017

Gade Valley Harriers 17 - Marathon Training Run - Sunday 26 February

Firstly I must congratulate Gade Valley Harriers for staging an excellent marathon training run as the facilities - club house, fully course marshaled, mile markers, water and jelly baby stations and then a lovely hot drink and cake at the end are incredible value for just £5. Yes you have to take your own finish time which I guess allows Gade Valleyy to run it 'unofficial' in this way but nevertheless its a great if not tough run. I set out with the intention of 9 minutes a mile, my goal for London. The start takes you 3 miles along the canal towpath from Boxmoor before taking you up a stiff 1 mile climb. It's the same course as for the 12 but plus a nice 5 mile section that takes you up through Ashridge Park,. My son Terry was running with me to offer support and act as my pacer and for the first couple of miles Michelle Morris and Dave Coker ran with us before leaving us to increase their pace with Ian Halpin who had now joined them. The first 3 miles were run in 8.34/8.43/8.52 but with 2 long, tough climbs on this course I decided to ignore those mile splits and although my remaining mile times reflected the undulating course amazing when i looked at my time for those 15 miles I was spot on at exactly 9 minutes a miles - mission accomplished. Next week sees the mileage jack up to 20 at the Milton Keynes Festival of running.

Dave Stanley 2:36:29

Cambridge Boundary Marathon – Sunday 26 February

Cambridge Boundary run marathon for number 65. I'll be honest and admit after yesterdays mud-bath and the energy that took, I found this tough and the last 22 miles in particular. Three trips to the loo for pre race no 2's x 3 and a queasy not sure I can keep breakfast down feeling didn't help. Now you won't hear this often, but I accept I might have bitten off a bit too much this weekend but shhhh, don't tell the current. On the plus side I wasn't sick mid race and post run I felt like a curry, so internals back in working order. Good run from Mark Rouse for a new trail PB, Richard ’Satnav’ Jones for trying to make me talk for 9 miles before eventually realising the task was beyond even his ability and Paul Barton for also grinding out a second marathon in consecutive days particularly after the mudfest of the day before.

Paul Owen

Belvoir marathon challenge – Saturday 25 February

A last minute decision to enter the Belvoir marathon challenge for marathon number 64 for me and goodness knows how many for the mile muncher that is Paul Barton. And it was a real challenge. Mud all the way, accompanied by slurry, streams, tons of cow based presents, hills, occasional tracks that were OK to run on, slowest time in years (aided by stopping for 10-15 mins at checkpoints for tea, sarnies, cakes x 2), fab views, all of which I overpaid for as a late entry (i.e. 90 mins before the race). One hill at six miles was so steep and slippery, it caused a long queue as runners scrambled gingerly up the banks holding on to anything they could. Only two falls for me and both times managed to avoid a face plant, unlike one poor soul who landed in the middle of one massiiffoo mud puddle. Highly recommend it but enter early to avoid price hike. And be prepared to throw away unsalvageable trainers post the mudfest.

Paul Owen

English National XC Champs - Wollaton Park. Nottingham - Saturday 25 February

Well done to our lone Club representative at the English National Cross Country Championships at Nottingham last Saturday.  Withdrawals due to injury of Tim Harris and Paul Falmer meant solo Craig traveled all the way from his home on the south coast to run but then turned in a magnificent performance finishing the 12K course in 198th position in a time of 44.55. To put this in perspective the finishing field was some 1700+ runners and Craig finished just over 60 seconds behind Bedfordshire County winner Alex Bellew and ahead of 3rd place Steve Horton and a number of the Buckinghamshire runners who were ahead of him at Stowe - a very well done Craig.

Dave Stanley

Marriots Way Trail Marathon - Sunday 19 February

A lonesome trip to Norwich for marathon 63 (unofficially 65) for the first outing of this event. It was a point to point race and a 7am meet at a bus stop for transport to the start provided a few local difficulties when a b&b hadn’t been booked. It was entirely trail, apart from road crossings, mostly along a sometimes rutted and muddy disused train line. Some sections were a tad dull, stuck at the bottom of a rail cutting often with a two mile odd straight in front. I set off at around 8 min mile pace, which is slower than a fast road marathon, but a decent pace on trails. The number of runners was quite small and for long sections I ran entirely on my own, a few times not seeing anyone in front or behind. I kept the pace up until halfway when a school boy error cost me 20 mins. I forgot to pack any nutrition for the run and had to use an old, stale energy bar. I left it as long as possible before trying it. One bite and it was awful, so spat it out and ran race on 6 jellybean's and 3 cups of water. No surprise slowed massively over last six miles for a 3.52 and 29th place. Certainly sub 3.30 road equivalent so overall quite happy.

Paul Owen 3:52:41

Hardwick X/Stream - Sunday 19 February After the Tring Ridgeway I treat this as my next favourite off-road run. As a cross country race it offers everything - water crossings, stiles to climb over, thick mud to wade through and a nice long drag of a hill to add to the enjoyment! The course is just a great cross country venue and is run around the fields, tracks and grasslands close to the village of Hardwick - a village similar in size to that of Steppingley. The course is just short of 6 miles and I've been running it at least since 2006 and I know as a race it has been run annually since 1993. The Flyers usually send a good contingent of runners and this year was no exception with the ladies outnumbering the men.

The key is to get a quick start as you have some thick mud to contend with after just 100 yards and it is then on to the first of 5 stream crossings giving an excellent viewing point for spectators. Despite my quick start I was soon struggling in 2nd gear as hordes of runners passed me and as usual it took me a good mile+ to settle into any sort of rhythm. When Lisa Wells passed me I tried to keep her in site but continued to struggle up the long drag of a hill around 4 miles. I was having a friendly battle with Brian Layton of Tring and 2nd club Flyers but again he was much stronger than me on the hill. A good descent saw me picking off runners and despite catching site of Lisa on the final track back there was no way I could catch her now despite a strong finish. Debbie Beare led the ladies home and helped in securing 3rd ladies team. If you love cross country then you must run Hardwick. Richard Gale secured a late entry from my son Terry and was full of praises for this great little friendly race. It's brilliantly organised by Bearbrook running club and with an entry of just over £11 it's great value with a novel horse brass as your medal for finishing. Dave Stanley

Charnwood Hills, 14.1M - Sunday 5 February

I always really enjoy this race though it definitely lives up to its billing as a proper fell race. Scenic, hilly, muddy, friendly and easy to get to, though sadly now so popular it sold out within 30 mins of opening. I was 5th in my age group and nearly 3 mins faster than last year, in spite of being less fit.

Caroline Gilby - 2:14:56, 5th FV45

Watford Half Marathon - Sunday 5 February

The Watford Half attracts a field of 2000 runners and is described as undulating with at least 4 tough climbs. Even the final mile back into Cassiobury Park is up hill. When I last ran this back in 2003 I finished as the V50 Champion in a time of 1.31.13 - those were the days! I had planned to try and run this year's race as close to 1.44, a time I did at Bedford last December and set off to the rear of the '1.45' pacer. By 3 miles I was on target but when i struggled up the first climb at 3.5 miles I realised the legs just didn't have it in them today. A tough training week and last weeks 12 mile race were clearly taking their toll and when the '1.50' pacer passed me shortly before 6 it was all about damage limitations as I continued to struggle up the climbs. Yes it was a shame but on a positive front another 13 miles in the training log towards London. Also, I probably need to be a bit more realistic about London and now focus the training on simply dipping under 4 hours rather than trying for a faster time.

Well done to all the others Flyers and especially a good run from Steve Upton just dipping under the 1.20 mark.

David Stanley

January 2017

Marrakech Marathon - Sunday 29 January

Marrakech is quite possibly the maddest place I have ever run a marathon. Hard to capture it all but highlights (or lowlights) include snake charmers all over the main square, sublime orange juice, camels, snow covered Atlas mountains in the distance while sweating profusely in a vest, monkeys, chaos, noise, cars, tuc-tucks, souks, ancient Mosques, good food, bad food, flattest course I have ever run on, cheap Riads, amazing sights, truly international race field with few Brits, dust, music and flight time of just over 3 hours. The race route included various areas around and in the town and took you through expensive and poor areas where the contrasts were marked. The place has an element of the West about it while being very firmly routed in its own culture and history and there are places to enjoy a legal and cold beer post race. The people we met were friendly although many were pushy in the market areas. There was a lot of support on route, with all major roads closed to the annoyance of the tooting motorists - but everyone toots in Marrakech even if they aren’t in a rush. Flight cost £60 return and Riad great value, as was the food which made the trip cost very low. Defiantly one to try once, but if you go, don’t hire a car. I’ve never driven in such consistent carnage waiting to happen. Lanes were optional, as for some was the direction (and I’m not even slightly joking). We also ran and considering Satnav has done next to no running in the 6 weeks before, pretty amazing job just to make the start line let alone finish.

Richard Jones & Paul Owen

Gade Valley Harriers 12 - Marathon Training Run - Sunday 29 January

Well over 10 Flyers ran this first of 3 pre-London runs aimed for London Marathon runners

Having secured the Club place for London my aim was to run around 8.35 minute mile pace to see how that figured for London. Tough climbs at 3 and 7 miles told me I was being too optimistic on this course. In the end I was pleased with an average mile time of 8.45 which for me will still bring me home under 4 hours - the test will come at the three 20 mile races I have planned over the coming months!

Dave Stanley 1.45.01

SEAA XC Champs, Parliament Hills - Saturday 28 January It somewhat surprises me that when we have over 50 club members running regularly in the league cross county races we struggled to get a Men's team and failed to attract any of our women runners at the South of England Championships run over what is probably the best cross country course in the country. Traditionally, Parliament Hill is a hard, tough course run in some deep mud but fortunately this year runners found that conditions were remarkably favorable and that first long drag up from the start had none of that deep mud associated with it as runners disappeared over the top for the start of 15K of running. It really is an iconic venue particularly at the top of that first climb with the back drop of the City of London.

Late withdrawals though injury to Tim Harris and Giles Shorley, already replacing the injured Paul Farmer left the Flyers with just 4 runners - Craig Palmer, Jeremy Godfrey and debutants over the course Ed Duce and Ian Halpin. There is always a quality field up front and the winners time of 48.27 averaged out at just 3 minutes a K over this tough course. Craig was first Flyer home having a good, solid run. He was 143rd after the 2nd lap and continued to move through the field to finish 131st overall. Ian, Ed and Jeremy all turned in good performances, particularly Ed who had time to smile for Tim's camera every time he passed us on each of the 3 laps! [There were also a couple of Redway Flyers running so GP points were a reward for their efforts]. Dave Stanley and Tim Harris

Gran Canaria Half Marathon – Sunday 22 January

We noticed a few people had gone to do the half marathon in Gran Canaria last year so seeing as it fell on Steve’s birthday this year we decided to go and give it a try. Although, to be honest with you, it was a tough decision between that and the XC at Sharnbrook J. It was a very well organised race that started at 8.30 am outside of the shopping centre in Las Palmas. It was an out and back route along the main roads that had been closed off and the finish was along the sea front. There was a marathon on at the same time and a 10K later that morning. It was a fairly flat course but the head wind was terrible on the way back and I struggled with this. Overall we had a really good week away and it was nice to try out another half marathon somewhere different

Steve & Michelle

New Grand Prix Leagues for 2017 & Other End of Year Stuff

Concluding at the end of the year are the Grand Prix Leagues and the final tables can be found in the GP Archives. New leagues for the coming year have been generated and are now available on Grand Prix pages. There have been several adjustments made since the original list was published to accommodate new people running their first GP event.  Don't worry if your name does not appear in any of the leagues shown. It does not mean you have been forgotten, or banished from the leagues. Your name still appears in the lower leagues that are not displayed here and once you complete a GP event you will move into the visible area.

• I have also completed my annual look at Age Related Performance, comparing everybody's 'best' performances with other club members and also with their own performances from previous years. This analysis can be viewed by clicking on Age Related on the website menu.

County XC Champs - Saturday 7 January

What was so disappointing about the County Cross Country Championships was the lack of competitors from our own County - 43 in the Senior Men's and 31 in the Women's race and a mere 6 of us in the 'old gits' race with only 1 runner in all the 3 races from Beds Harriers!

Perhaps they were put off by stories of a tough course held in the historic venue of Stowe School. The course had been used for the National back in 2000 and featured 3 tough climbs on each of the 3 laps for the 11K race (2 climbs less for the Men's Vets and Women's races over 8K). The races also incorporated the County Championships for Bucks and Oxfordshire which at least made for a decent field.

In the men's race 2 young lads from Bedford & County ran away with things but behind them a determined Tim Harris led the Flyers home as the 6th County finisher in 38.44 and helped the Flyers to finish as 3rd team. In the Women's race, I watched a really great run by Nicky Bowerman work her way through the field to take 4th place in a really quick time for the 8K course of 34.18. Great also to see Caroline Gilby finish as the County's first V50 and again helped Flyers finish as 3rd team.

Dave Stanley

Wymondham New Year 10K - Monday 2 January

For some really bizarre reason this years (2017) New Year’s Day race was held on the 2nd of January! It should therefore have given us an extra day to recover - both from the lurgy that had prevented running the Cross Country and Pirton events in December. However, it seems that we just had an extra day to enjoy the festive eating and drinking!

So, with snotty noses and rather fully bellies we took to the start line. Fortunately, we were staying with my sister which is a little under a ten-minute walk to the start - the bad news was the start was delayed for 15 minutes in the hopes that the ice would be melted in some of the shaded areas of the course. With the temperature, close to freezing the extra 15 minutes on the start line were cold!!

A great little event which was sold out at 800 runners. A cracking course round country lanes with a few long straights, some twisty bits and a few hills in for good measure. Had hoped for a better time but the lack of recent running and still being blocked up was always going to tell and it all started to fall away from about 6.5k. Having said that, happy to have chipped off over 2 minutes from last year!

Mrs H, also ran - her last running event was Wymondham 10k 2014!! She posted a very similar time only being a handful of seconds slower. Lovely course and a great way to end the New Year celebrations in Norfolk.

Rick Hollingsworth

Club Marathon Champions
Men	Ladies
Champion Max Dillon London 2:41:26 CR V-40 Mark Waine London 2:47:21 V-50 Martin Beare Abingdon 2:54:54	Champion Nicola Bowerman Chester 3:01:25 CR V-35 Keri Withers Amsterdam 3:51:36 V-45 Caroline Gilby Milton Keynes 4:00:13

 

Last Updated: Tuesday, 02 January 2018 22:15