Malvern Joggers

Club News

Chris's Blog from 28 September 2008

Listen up y'all

NEW WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEETING PLACE – MALVERN ST JAMES SPORTS & FITNESS CENTRE
I am pleased to announce that we have been offered a new venue to meet on Wednesday nights which I am sure you will agree is more in keeping with the activity that we are involved with. This coming Wednesday is the last time we are due to meet at Morrison’s.
On Wednesday 8th of October and every Wednesday until sometime next Spring we will be meeting at the new Malvern St James Sports and Fitness Centre which is the brand new facility in Barnard’s Green Road opposite the Girls College and located on their sports ground. Morrison’s has served us well but it’s not good for the image of the club and it doesn’t have somewhere to enjoy a drink afterwards. Neither does it have showering and changing facilities which the new venue has.
There is a cost to this but it is a nominal payment which we should be able to find from the club funds.
This new facility which is owned by the Girls College will be opened officially on Wednesday by Olympic medal winning hurdler Sally Gunnell and cost £4.5 Million. I have been personally escorted around by the manager Mike Bourne and was most impressed by what is on offer. When we meet there for the first time I am hoping to give our runners a quick view of the inside to include the main sports hall, fitness room, changing room and bar. Following our weekly meet I would like to see as many people as possible in the bar. You may also wish to become a member of the Gym which contains the latest cardiovascular and conditioning equipment.
Not forgetting, our Paul Bullman who we have to thank for speaking to Mike who then called me to discuss the possibility. It didn’t take me long to say yes.
This is a dream come true for the Malvern Joggers. Please make the most of it.

Next Wednesday
7pm at Morrison’s (for the last time) or 6pm in Rose Bank Gardens to run the Beacon Race course (or part of it)

Post Beacon Race Party
From Andy Milton......
‘ I've managed to get us booked into the Spice Cottage for 1830 hrs ( we can arrive earlier for a drink), could you pass this on to the joggers and ask them to drop me an e mail if they are coming. Could you remind them that it is bring your own booze. ‘
Andy’s email address is ...... themiltons4@hotmail.com
Also from Andy......
‘ On another note following the Wednesday runs a few of us have recently been going to the Nags for a drink which has proved quite popular so could you also spread the word about this .’

Katie’s Morris’s Charity Appeal – Yo!
‘ In just over two weeks time, me and my sister will be running the Great North Run in aid of Access Sport. It's a charity which aims to get all kinds of people involved in sport, regardless of their background or ability. Here's a link to their website: http://www.accesssport.co.uk/
If you think you'd like to sponsor us, please visit our justgiving site: http://www.justgiving.com/tesandnic - and before you ask I stepped in for Nic who was supposed to be running it, it isn't one of my many pseudonyms (Andy!)’
Will Green’s Charity Appeal
‘ I am doing the Great North Run and I am using the site www.justgiving.com/2williamgreen to raise money for Leonard Cheshire Disablility. If anyone has the oppportunity to make a donation to the cause then you can do so through this link.
All donations no matter how small will be made to go a long way I'm sure! Best Regards, William Green.’

Joggers in The Gazette
A mega week for the Malvern Joggers as the local paper featured us on three different pages. Firstly on page 2 where you will see the Berlin Four which is a taster for the full article on page 8 headed ‘Marathon men face Berlin race’ and also on page 76 where prize-winning MJs Jill Brierly and Katie Morris are featured following their success in the Noah’s Ark Run to remember last Sunday.
Thanks to everyone who supplied The Gazette with the info.

Race Reports
Upton Bishop Big Dipper – 28/9/08 by Julie Caseley
‘ It was glorious sunshine in Malvern when we left for Upton Bishop but by time we got to the Millennium Hall, the fog had closed in and it was quite cool. However, by the start of the race, the sun had broken through and it turned out to be perfect Eight Malvern Joggers were on the start line. I always make the mistake of forgetting how hard hill running can be under race conditions and this was no exception. The hills were relentless but the downhill bits compensated a little and a downhill finish made a pleasant change.
The finishing order was Nick Hitchings, Julie Marshall, Vikki Sivertsen (who won the FV40 prize), Phil Jackson, Julie Caseley, Chris Barker, Eric Bromage and Samantha Caseley. I finished 13 seconds faster than last year which was quite pleasing. Also, all participants received a very nice embroidered hand towel as a momento.’
Thanks, Julie
Sandhurst 5 Miles, 27/9/08 by Emma Gooderham
‘ On saturday I did the Sandhurst 5 mile race in Gloucester organised by Severn AC. It started at 5.30 at the White Horse Chinese Restaurant (which looks pretty good by the way) and everyone was on there way home at 6.30. Dispite the abuse from the locals who don't appreciate the races and the local travellers hurling stones near our cars I had a pretty good run considering it was only 6 days after the New Forest Marathon. I came home in 29.12, a PB at this distance. This was not enough however to secure first place. I was 3rd lady and 7th overall. I didn't feel too bad though as the winning lady is due to run for GB at half marathon distance soon, and the second lady was Kate Goodhead who kept me on my toes for the first 10 miles of the Malvern half before I broke free, so she is very fast at shorter distances. I won a customary packet of biscuits for my efforts, not bad really considering the entrance fee was only £4. ‘
Thanks, Emma

Run Reports
The Ladies Who Chat – by Jayne Ackroyd
‘ The 'ladies who chat' met at a foggy Morrison's this morning at 9.30 - Annabel, Ginny, Lin, Viv, Amanda, Fong and myself. A few of our usual members were missing, but some had sent words of encouragement - "I'll think of you as I lie in my bath eating a croissant" - thanks Alison! We were pleased to welcome Fong for the first time, and to have Lin and Amanda back from their respective hols. We headed out in the mist across fields through Madresfield to the Old Hills, and back through Callow End, again over
(different) fields as the sun came out - fortunately Ginny knew where she was going, because the rest of us hadn't a clue ! The fields were wet but we avoided mud until we emerged on to Townsend Way opposite the new Spa, when some of us sank into thick ankle deep stuff! Yuck! All in all a very pleasant 7.2 miles. See you all Wed, if my shoes have dried out.....
There will be a 'ladies who chat' final Beacon run training session next Friday 3rd Oct starting at 4.45pm from Rose Bank Gardens. We plan to complete the whole route. All welcome, and it is accepted that chat is not always possible on this route ! ‘
Thanks, Jayne

Total Wipeout
Paul Newman is very much alive and well and will be running with the Malvern Joggers again shortly.
In the meantime, he has been auditioning for a TV show called Total Wipeout, as Paul himself now tell’s us....
‘ I know you guys are up for anything check this out !!
Do you fancy a free trip to Argentina for a week or 10 days
includes "its a ultra knockout type" competition
the chance to win a large cash prize
the chance to compete on a prime time BBC TV show
hosted by Richard Hammond ???????
Comtestants wanted ....
I am off on Saturday to Audition !
They have asked me if I know anyone else who might be interested
They are also looking for teams to compete
(checkout the attachment) ‘
Please let us know how you got on Paul – Chris

Some stuff on Beer & Running
from MJ Dave Brett
‘ Found this the other day - not sure if I stumbled across Stevie R's training aid or not!!
"Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy," said Benjamin Franklin - and who are we to argue with such an august figure?
The problem most runners have, though, is reconciling sinking a couple of cold ones with the consequential effect on their training. However, although we all know the dangers of drinking too much, moderate beer drinking may be better for us than we think.
Here comes the science bit...
Beer, like red wine, does have health benefits. The malt and hops used in both lager and bitter contain flavonoids, which counter cell damage and help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Beer also contains B-vitamins and chromium, which help in converting carbohydrate to energy; and choline, which, ironically, protects against liver damage and memory loss. In 2003, a review of studies showed that while heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of a stroke, moderate consumption may lower it. The recommended daily intake for athletes is 500ml (just under one pint) for men and 250ml (just under a half) for women.
There are also benefits linked to recovery from exercise, says nutritionist Kim Pearson (www.equilibria-health.co.uk <http://www.equilibria-health.co.uk>). "Beer contains predominantly water and carbohydrate, both of which are essential in post-race recovery," she says. "A recent study at Granada University in Spain found that the sugars, salts and bubbles in a pint can help athletes absorb fluids more quickly than rehydrating with water.
"The carbon dioxide in beer helps quench thirst more quickly, while the carbohydrates replace some of the calories lost through exercise."
A little of what you fancy
Moderate consumption is the key to enjoying a guilt-free beer. Use these guidelines to keep you on the straight and narrow:
*

A pre-race beer the night before to help you relax is fine, but keep it to one: alcohol is a diuretic and you don't want to be dehydrated on the start line.
*

Drinking beer after a run is a great way to unwind, but match it with plenty of water and healthy post-training snacks (pork scratchings don't count).
*

Drinking lots of beer during a race is a bad idea but a few sips on a fun run won't hurt you. Just take care not to drink too much as even a small amount in this situation can cause dehydration and impair judgement.
*

Try to drink organic beers, advises Pearson. "They are produced with far fewer chemical additives, which make them the healthiest option," she says. "If your local pub doesn't sell any organic varieties, then opt for a beer that comes from a smaller, lesser-known brewery, as this is more likely to contain more natural ingredients."
Thanks, Dave

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Wed 1/10 A choice of runs - Morrison’s 7pm or Rose Bank Gardens 6pm
Wed 8/10 Malvern St James Sports & Fitness Centre
Sat 11/10 Worcestershire Beacon Race
Sun 12/10 Walk or Run for Worcester 5 Mile Race
Sun 26/10 Stroud Half Marathon
Sun 26/10 MJs Walking Group – near Abergavenny contact Eric 01684 576576 or Jenny Field.
Sun 26/10 Birmingham Half Marathon
Sun 2/11 Guy Fawkes 5 – Tewkesbury
Sun 16/11 Suicide 6
Sun 14/12 Christmas Pudding 10
Sun 21/12 Bournville Yacht Handicap
Wed 17/12 MJs Annual Christmas Party – Mount Pleasant Hotel, Great Malvern

Weekly Reminders
Be safe, be seen, wear something light or bright on the dark nights.
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 2 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email.
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know.
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website

The Adventures of Dappy & Faffy – Part 2 of many
By Butch Cassidy
Tink’bell : “through working out, of course” Forest : “you sure, she was a very big girl?”
Tink’bell :“ok but you guy’s have to keep this quiet, she did have one of those gastric bands fitted a while back”
Matt : “a little bird tells me they used a fan belt off a 747 jumbo jet”
Tink’bell : “not true, now don’t you say anything”
Tink’bell : “oh Colin, have you got those photos for me?”
Colin :“oh bummer I forgot, tell you what if you give me your email details I will email them to you”
Tink’bell : “I am not sure of my number”
Colin : “it’s a email address not a number, I will tell you what, I think I will burn them”
Tink’bell : “Oh no don’t do that! I do want them”
Colin : “ ok don’t panic I mean I will copy them for you”
Tinkerbell to Forrest “how was your marathon?”
Forrest : “absolutely brilliant”
Tink’bell : “is your calf injury any better”
Forest : “it still niggles a bit”
Tink’bell : “ perhaps you should try some type of support”
Forest : “well I am wearing a jock strap but that doesn’t seam to be helping”
Faffy to Dappy “Oh I like your hair”
Dappy : “yes I’ve just had it done”
Faffy : “you look nice blonde”
Colin : “she reminds me of that blonde pop singer”
Dappy : “oh do I? that’s nice which one”
Faffy : “ you mean Kylie?”
Colin : “no not that one the other one”
Faffy : “oh you mean Madonna!”
Colin : “no that other one I know Rick Parfitt that’s it”
Dappy : “Rick blimmin’ Parfitt! I’ll give you Rick blimmin’ Parfitt!”
Tinkerbell the long haired hippy say’s
“I suppose that makes me Francis Rossi, you got any Quo?”
GUITAR RIFF STRIKES UP IN BACKGROUND - DAPPY AND TINKERBELL DON THE AIR GUITARS
Dappy and Tinkerbell: “yeah”I like it I like It!!”
Dappy to Colin who is a trying out a new look
“cheeky devil and what exactly do you call that birds nest on your head?”
Colin : “my stylist says this is what all the hip young dudes are wearing these day’s”
Faffy : “what’s with the fringe?”
Colin : “oh, my stylist say’s my hairs waving”
Dappy : “it’s waving alright, its waving goodbye!”
Forest : “stylist my arse he’s been down to Allied carpets for a new rug”
Matt : “do you think it’s a syrup ?”
Matt : “surely it would blow off when he’s running”
Forrest : “not if you use that Solvite wall paper paste it won’t”
Forest : “either that or there’s a furry animal sat on his head!”
Matt : “ quick lets get a saucer of milk see if we can tempt it down”
Forest : “ are you enjoying the food tonight”
Matt : “ you bet, these Korean meatball’s really are the dogs bollocks!”
Colin to Forest “how did Julie and Marie get on with their Marathon”
Forest : “Oh you mean Faffy and Dappy! did I have trouble with Faffy and Dappy,”
Matt : “why”
Forest : “ need you ask you know those two, Faffy is such a worrier and dappy is well Dappy!”
Matt : “how did they get on with the Marathon?”
Forrest : “she was determined to beat her nemesis a seven foot tall Scooby Doo, he beat her on the Great North race and she was desperate to beat him this time,”
Matt : “Dappy and Faffy aren’t usually that competitive”
Tinkerbell “remember that 10k race Faffy dropped her hair band, so Dappy stopped to wait for her to put it back on
Forrest : “yeah they haven’t quite got the knack of this racing business”

To be continued......

Happy running,
Chris

Thank to all our contributors.....2785 words!

Chris's Blog from 21 September 2008

Listen up y'all

Next Wednesday
7pm at Morrison’s or 6pm in Rose Bank Gardens to run the Beacon Race course (or part of it)

Joggers in The Gazette
A feature on the forthcoming Beacon Race states that 25 Malvern Joggers have already entered the event which takes place on Saturday the 11th of October.
Talking of the Beacon Race, we will be holding a post race social at a local restaurant so you can put back all those calories you lost during the race. Details to follow.

Race Reports
Stretton Skyline, 14/9/08 by Jon Newey
‘ Three Malvernites headed for Church Stretton last week for the Stretton Skyline fell race, me, Matt Scriven, Richard Lloyd. Also there (as well as 91 others) was former resident Stewart Bellamy and a chap called Chris who introduced himself to me at the start and lives in Barnards Green.
Those who go hashing will know Neil, Anne and Shag who also took part. Shag is doing the Berlin Marathon two weeks after the race (one week away now)! Our own Berlin hopeful Steve Roode declined to take part. Something about it being too hard that close to Berlin. Excuses excuses.
Weather was great, misty cool conditions with the sun just breaking through 2 hours into the race. Course record nearly went with the winner Mike James of shrewsbury in 2h18mins mins, 1 min off the record. I came in 4th in 2h46 having blown up just as the long descent to the finish began. Better than at the bottom of the last climb like last year! Matt was a few minutes back in 6th having struggled like so many on the last climb. Stewart dipped under 3 hours with 2h56mins with Richard just 30 seconds behind. We were all pleased enough with our results having each shaved a tad off previous times (12 mins in Richards case!).
We did not see Shag or Ann at the finish. However, Shag turned up at the hash on Tuesday, looking like he'd come straight from the finish at Church Stretton and full of tales of daring do. He'd got round in 5 hours 30 mins, escorted by Anne and another brave soul. Well done! Berlin will be easy after all that. ‘
Thanks, Jon
Bristol Half Marathon, 14/9/08 by Rachel Samuel
‘ Dave and I ran the Bristol Half on Sun 14th and I'm very pleased to report that not only did we survive but we managed to do it in a fraction over 2 hours (D - 2:00:45, R - 2:01:01). The reason I'm pleased is that our only run for weeks was the 5-miler from Castlemorton last week. Please do not try this at home, it made for a tough last mile. The weather was perfect - sunny, with a cool breeze - and there was loads of support from the crowds along the way. The route was slightly different from last year which made for a slightly nervous last couple of miles where we were directed past the point I thought we'd be allowed to turn for home.
The organisers this year split the race into two waves, one starting half an hour later. It was a good idea but not without teething troubles as a third of the runners were asked to use a separate location as race HQ, with only 15 toilets provided (eek) and lots of wave 2 runners queuing up in front of wave 1 (grrr). The real gripe came at the end though when 4000 runners discovered that they couldn't get back to their race HQ as access was blocked by the race route. This left us all scurrying across the road, hopping barriers and dodging the runners who were still finishing. Apologies to the organisers if there was a proper way back, but I'm afraid that most of us failed to find it. I will be back next year though, it's one of my favourites. ‘
Thanks, Rachel
Weymouth Jumbled Sprint triathlon 14/9/08 by Barry Hughes
‘ Barry and Alison Hughes competed in the Weymouth Bustinskin Jumbled Sprint Triathlon on Sunday 14 September.
Weymouth hosted both Classic (1500m swim - 40km bike - 10km run) and Jumbled Sprint (800m swim- 6km run- 30km bike) triathlons and after a few weeks of awful weather, Barry and Alison were lucky on race day with almost perfect weather, warm with little wind and calm(ish) sea conditions for the swim.
The sea swim was a first for Alison in a triathlon and for Barry this was his first triathlon event. The water was much warmer than anticipated and the beach start was good experience. The run was fairly flat along the esplanade (although pedestrians had to be dodged!) and the bike leg was through the Dorset countryside, which incorporated several climbs.
The Classic was won by 2007 World Age Group winner Colin Dixon and Tracy Cook (Tri UK), while the Jumbled sprint was won by Iain Noble and Colette O'Neill (Hillingdon Triathletes).
Alison came 5th in the female category (26th overall) in the Jumbled Sprint in a time of 01:48:52 (after taking a wrong turn on the bike leg where she added an extra climb - a valuable lesson for the novice - always familiarise yourself with the route!) Barry came 13th overall and 4th in the swim in a total time of 01:43:05 after suffering badly from a stitch on the run sector. More details on thier times can be found at www.bustinskin.com/results.
This was a great event hosted by the local Fire Service, Paramedics and Police under the banner Bustinskin (www.bustinskin.com) and although there weren't a large number of marshalls on the cycle route (hence Alison's detour!) it was a friendly event with a free BBQ and drinks at the local fire station afterwards. I'd recommend it for anyone interested in doing it next year."
Thanks, Barry
New Forest Marathon, 21/9/08 by Emma Gooderham
‘ I’m just back from the New Forest Marathon. A superbly run event, although the water was a bit scarce. Beautiful scenery but quite undulating and challenging especially in the latter stages when it was also v.hot! Came home 5th overall, 1st lady in a time of 2.53.17. Very pleased with this considering the course and it is a PB for me at the distance beating my London time by well over a minute.’
Thanks, Emma
Noah’s Ark 10k, 21/9/08 by Richard Walsh
‘ No Ledbury chase this year but an alternative advertising 10k was on offer. starting at the worcester countryside centre, this consisted of a 2 lap course consisting of woodland tracks and muddy cross country conditions. although one challenging hill, was generally flat. I surprised myself finishing 2nd in 36.51 so was a faster course than i expected.
Another Malvern local chris davey won about 30 secs ahead and joggers Will Green placed 3rd in 40.07. other joggers had good runs including graham cramp(1st vet 40) and katie morris(1st lady) who both clocked around 44 mins and jill brierly won 1st vet prize also. ‘
Thanks Rich and well done Graham, Katie and Jill

Membership
Another new member to report, it’s Stuart Horsfall and he is member no. 126.

Run Reports
Sunday ladies who Chat, 21/9/08 by Alison Winwood
‘ We had a change of meeting point this week and started out in Welland. This was originally Annabel's idea but sadly she had got her engagements mixed up and was unable to join us. The runners were myself, Judy, Nicky, Viv and Jane.
We had a lovely morning starting out by heading along Drake Street and turning off to Welland Court. From there we crossed the fields to join the Longdon road then stuck to tarmac as far as Hill End. A beautiful scene was laid out on both sides of us of the Malvern hills and Bredon. We found the perfect country cottage with roses climbing round the door but possibly out of our reach as a retirement pad.
From Hill End we struck out cross country again before regaining the road and returning via Druggers End Lane. We met a very nice gentleman who had a beautiful peacock in his front garden and two huge great danes who gave Judy quite a shock. Stopping for a chat was a welcome rest and we learnt that peacocks lose their tails in the summer and great danes grow to 9.5 stone. In all we covered 7.6 miles in about an hour and a quarter.’
Thanks, Alison
Beacon Run Practise, 21/9/08 by Chris Barker
I’m not the best one to write about this as I baled-out (or is that balled-out, as if in pain) at the Gold Mine which was probably only about 3 miles into it.
Having said that, a healthy total of 13 MJs met up in the sunshine, in the park this morning. 4 girls, 9 guys and 1 dog.
Of those, Peter and Louise did their own thing. Dave Gibson and Lisa Dainty joined me and also ran down from the GM. The others continued the final push to the summit. Lisa went home while Dave and I ran on to the British Camp and along the Wells Road and back to the Gardens for a total of just over 9 miles. Also there, Jon Ashley, Vikksen, Sundance, Stuart Brown, Helen Clarke, Mark Gent, Jacko, and Andy Milton. I think that’s all. Sorry if it’s not.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Wed 24/9 A choice of runs - Morrison’s 7pm or Rose Bank Gardens 6pm
Sun 28/9 Upton Bishop Big Dipper
Sat 11/10 Worcestershire Beacon Race
Sun 26/10 Stroud Half Marathon
Sun 26/10 MJs Walking Group – near Abergavenny contact Eric 01684 576576 or Jenny Field.
Sun 26/10 Birmingham Half Marathon
Sun 2/11 Guy Fawkes 5 – Tewkesbury
Sun 16/11 Suicide 6
Sun 14/12 Christmas Pudding 10
Sun 21/12 Bournville Yacht Handicap
Wed 17/12 MJs Annual Christmas Party – Mount Pleasant Hotel, Great Malvern

The Adventures of Dappy & Faffy – Part 1 of many
By one of our runners who signs himself as Butch Cassidy
‘ My work is a little on the quiet side at present so I have a little too much free time, you may remember my blog about Dappy and Faffy after the London Marathon well it seams to have grown a bit! its now taken on a life of its own.. I have to say all the charactors personalities have been altered to protect the innocent so all the charactors are now all FICTIONAL its all VERY toungue in cheek so nobody please take offence !! please enjoy
This tale is based on real life events but the characters even though some of which may seem familiar are all FICTIONAL they may have started out based on a few fellow runners but I have altered their personalities to such an extent they are now a product of my warped imagination! This is all done tongue in cheek
Please don’t be offended
The Adventures of Dappy and Faffy - a runner’s tale
THIS IS SET AT A PARTY IN A COUNTRY PUB TWO WEEKS AFTER THE LONDON MARATHON
Matt says: “lets hear it for the Big Cheese he has an announcement to make”
Colin announces: “Listen up Ya’all! On behalf of all the club members we would like to welcome back our London Marathon hero’s, we had twelve runners competing and they completed the course in a range of times from 3 – 5 and 1/2 hours a good effort guys! well done! We’ve laid on a choice of meals for later so please tuck in ”
Matt shouts across to his wife Faffy “you ok for a drink Babe”
Tinkerbell whispers to Colin “ahh ain’t that sweet he calls her Babe”
Forest : “yeah I loved that film!”
Colin : “do you think she realises he’s named her after a talking pig”
Tink’bell : “I don’t think the penny has dropped, besides he’s not limping is he”
THE BAND PLAYS ON AS THE CALLER SHOUTS
Caller : “Take your partner by the hand ….”
Matt : “Forest is looking for a dance partner will you dance with him?”
Cerys : “oh no I can’t dance,”
Matt : “oh go on he’s ever so good a dancer, ‘ave you heard of “Morris dancing” well he’s better than Morris”
Simon : “ the foods ready guy’s please help yourselves”
Dappy shouts to Forest : “Forest have you got the meatballs”
Forest : “no its these running shorts they are a bit tight”
Dappy : “no would you like the Korean meatballs the Lasagne or the Mexican Chilli ?”
Forest shouts to Dappy : “could I have the meatballs please love”
Matt : “ What about that London marathon then”
Forest : “excellent I loved every minute of it, how was yours?”
Matt : “It doesn’t get any easier”
Forest : “what about that atmosphere, it was electric”
Matt : “That was fantastic as always”
Tinkerbell : “it was surreal to see those Maassi warriors running”
Matt : “yes I passed them, they were chanting as they went”
Forest : “I thought they would have been quicker those African runners tend to be quick”
Tinkerbell : “well they have to be, they are used to running from Lions over there”
Matt : “big Steve was running well tonight”
Forest says: “he normally does he’s a fit guy”
Tinkerbell :“yeah but he’s got a lot of weight to lug around he must be 6’4”
Matt : “did you guys know he used to be a life guard?”
Tinkerbell : “big Steve did?”
Forest : “I thought he couldn’t swim?”
Matt : “He can’t but he can wade out a hell of a long way”
Forest : “Kay’s looking good these days, she’s looks very trim”
Tink’bell : “I was looking at a old wedding photo of her, she used to be as wide as she is tall”
Matt says: “you’re joking?”
Tink’bell : “no honestly”
Forest : “so how did she lose all the weight?”
Tink’bell : “through working out, of course”

To be continued......

Happy running,
Chris

Chris's Blog from 14 September 2008

Listen up y'all

Next Wednesday
We will be back at Morrisons 7pm. Please do not go to Hanley Swan as it says in the Whats On Guide in the Gazette and If you stopped running with us, when we moved away from Morrisons in the Spring, next Wednesday would be a good time to rejoin us. We would love to see you again. We’ve missed you!
You can also do the Beacon Race Training thing and meet in the Rose Bank Gardens at 6.30. If you would like to meet at any other time please email me and I will let everyone else know.
The following 2 weeks, the meeting time will be 6pm

MJs Christmas Party
OK all you party animals, here’s a date for you diary, Wednesday the 17th of December when we will holding our annual Christmas Bash, this year at the Mount Pleasant Hotel in Great Malvern. More details to follow.

Next Tuesday’s Hash
Jon Newey tells me that – ‘ Tuesday's hash is from the Nag's Head. 7pm start. You'll need torches as it's dark before 8. £1 to run and food laid on afterwards for anyone who's hungry at £4. ‘

Joggers in The Gazette
Thanks to Jon Newey for his report on Emma’s performance in the Adidas 5K in Birmingham and our ‘Jugglers’ relay team in the Wolves Half Marathon. See the centre of page 85 in last Friday’s Gazette
However, Jon himself isn’t completely satisfied with it......
‘ I wrote up a report for the Gazette on the Wolverhampton relay and Emma's 5k. Unfortunately I got it a bit wrong and missed Andy Blannin out, so apologies to him. To make things worse I included Stuart Brown in the team instead who I know would be mortified at being thought of as a short distance nancy boy! Apologies to him too.
Jon ‘

Mad Mile Report from Nick Hitchings
‘ NINE OF US DID THE MAD MILE ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT AT CASTLEMORTON BEFORE OUR GROUP RUN.MAKING GOOD USE OF THE DOWNHILL COURSE MANY PB'S WERE SMASHED (SUBJECT TO THE RESULTS OF THE STANDARD DRUG TEST OF COURSE)BUT NOT MANY (ANY) RAN BACK UP, MAKING USE OF THE CARS ON STANDBY.A LATE STARTER AND THEREFORE NOT ABLE TO CLAIM HIS PRIZE WAS PETE WILSON WHO CLOCKED AN IMPRESSIVE 5.25 MILE.STILL SMARTING FROM HIS DISQUALIFICATION HE DID HIS BEST TO EXACT REVENGE AND LOSE US IN EASTNOR PARK, TAKING US ON THE LAND ROVER COURSE IN THE NEAR DARK AND LAUGHING AT MY TORVILLE AND DEAN WHICH RESULTED IN HEAD TO TOE COVERING OF MUD AND WATER AND MANY CUTS AND BRUISES AHH!(WHERE THERES BLAME THERES A CLAIM PETE!!)CAN'T WAIT FOR MORRISONS!
THANKS TO ALL WHO TOOK PART IN THE MAD MILE AND GAVE IT A GO,WE HOPE TO DO IT AGAIN NEXT YEAR WITH ALL RUNNERS MORE THAN WELCOME. NICK HITCHINGS.’
Thanks, Nick

Race Reports
Experian Robin Hood Half Marathon, 14/9/08 by Julie Caseley
‘ At £24.50 this was quite an expensive half marathon but it was extremely well organised, there were more than sufficient and enthusiastic marshals and cheering spectators, plenty of ambulances and first airders (they were needed), regular drinks stations and Lucozade Sport stations and the roads were either cordonned off or closed completely.
We thought the car park near the start was full so opted for the other one about a mile away but as it happened there was plenty of space in the one near the start! Ah well, the walk acted as a warm up beforehand and a cool down afterwards. There were also plenty of portaloos - yes, they'd thought of a number and remembered to double
it!!
The start was a little late but it didn't matter because conditions were perfect. The first cannon started Mick and Phil in the wheelchair event then a few minutes later the masses started. There were about 13,500 runners, most doing the half marathon, some were relay runners and the rest were running the marathon.
The half marathon course was varied in that it twisted and turned a lot and was quite undulating especially in and around the Nottinghmam University campus. The campus itself was lovely but the paths were quite narrow in places which made overtaking difficult. Once we were back out on the road we were able to open up a bit but it was still very congested. I caught up with a couple of guys running in nothing but Speedos so I tucked in behind them for a couple of miles!! I understand the second 13.1 miles is very flat so it might be worth considering this for an autumn marathon next year. Considering the complexity of the course and the few bottlenecks, I was pleasantly
surprised to finish in 1:51:19 with a feeling of still having something left in the tank.
On a more sad note, I saw a young man collapsed at the finish line being attended to by paramedics but have just read on Ceefax that unfortunately he has died. A very tragic end to an otherwise lovely day. Regards, Julie ‘
Thanks, Julie

Run Reports
The Berlin Blog Part 99 by Steve Ollis
‘ After completing 21 miles last Monday evening, this ended up being almost ‘a run in the park’!!
Just two of us, Roodie and I, ventured out at 7AM on Saturday morning for our penultimate long run….15 miles this time.
I’ve got into the habit of using the intake of carbo gels as a way of hitting goals in my runs….I took one before I set off (phew!), then at 5 and 10 miles.
I couldn’t believe how quickly that 10 mile target was reached……and we both felt so good!!
Along the way, it was nice to see the Castlemorton/Birtsmorton hunt had come out in force to see us!
There were people in picnic chairs vying for a view of us….and as for the cameraman….he had one heck of a lens!
I think it was one of those especially designed to track objects traveling at speed!
Anyway…the course was in reverse to our previous efforts…my house to Welland, Birtsmorton, Castlemorton….a few twiddly bits then back to Welland and home.
It went more or less like that apart from a wrong turning…..I’ve still got ‘Are you sure you want to go that way??’ ringing in my ears! Sorry Steve….
We were both pleased to see the Garmins read 2 hours and 14 minutes at the end….that will do nicely!
Big thanks to the ground crew for excellent refreshment once back home….’Tea’ from Dan and ‘Bacon and fried egg sandwich’ from Theresa.
So…next Saturday it will be only 10 miles running from Steve’s house….the more the merrier…the last long one of the campaign! ‘
Thanks, Steve, just the right amount of woffle - Chris
Beacon Training Run, this morning, by Chris Barker
If practise makes perfect, we will be filling all the leading places in the Beacon race this year. If only it was that simple!
Despite running the actual race several times, I always have trouble remembering the route, something to do with brain cells dying off, I think. Just as well then that BR ‘veterans’ Stuart Brown, Paul Newman and Roger Brierly were there to lead the way. The other two-legged runners included Kareen Mann, Vikki Sivertsen, Helen Clarke, Gill McCann, Duncan Cresswell, Richard Love (with dog), Mark Gent and me. Also there was Tony Knight, a keen triathlete who joined us earlier in the year but was enjoying his first run with us.
Everybody got round OK, plenty of mist but no gorillas, no-one fell over. I will be in the park again next Sunday, same time, for another bash if anyone would like to join me.

Forthcoming Events
Walk or Run For Worcester – 12/10/08
This week in the post I received a letter and some entry forms for the above race from Camba Events who would like this event to be brought to your attention. Details as follows......
‘ We are delighted to be involved with NEW COLLEGE WORCESTER at the launch of a new event in the Midlands running/walking calendar. New College Worcester (NCW) is a residential college for students aged 11 to 19 who are blind or partially sighted. Proceeds from this event will go towards providing extra resources to benefit the students over and above the grants they receive from local authorities.
For runners, the multi-terrain race will start at 11.00 am, and will be approximately five miles in length. All runners will have their time and position recorded at the finish, and each will receive a medal and certificate upon completion. The race will start in Walkers Lane, a short jog from the college grounds, where the finish will also be situated.
For walkers, the route is the same, though slightly longer as they will start and finish on the sports field at the College. Walkers have the option of the full 10km circuit, or they can opt for a shorter 5km version if they prefer. The walk starts at 10.00 am, but as there will not be any results or timing for walkers, they can in fact set off at any time between 10 and 11. PLEASE NOTE there are two very busy roads to cross immediately upon leaving the college : please use the Pelican Crossings and obey the Marshals. ‘
www.cambaevents.co.uk

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Wed 17/9 A choice of runs - Morrison’s 7pm or Rose Bank Gardens 6.30pm
Sun 21/9 Run to Remember’ 5 & 10K, Worcester Countryside Centre
Wed 24/9 A choice of runs - Morrison’s 7pm or Rose Bank Gardens 6pm
Sun 28/9 Upton Bishop Big Dipper
Sat 11/10 Worcestershire Beacon Race
Sun 26/10 Stroud Half Marathon
Sun 26/10 MJs Walking Group – near Abergavenny contact Eric 01684 576576 or Jenny Field.
Sun 26/10 Birmingham Half Marathon
Sun 2/11 Guy Fawkes 5 – Tewkesbury
Sun 16/11 Suicide 6
Sun 14/12 Christmas Pudding 10
Sun 21/12 Bournville Yacht Handicap
Wed 17/12 MJs Annual Christmas Party – Mount Pleasant Hotel, Great Malvern

Weekly Reminders
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 2 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website

Happy running,
Chris

Chris's Blog from 07 September 2008

Listen up y'all

3,369 words. Thanks to everyone who has contributed. I’ve been in ‘cutting and pasteing’ heaven!

‘ MALVERN JUGGLERS SCOOP TEAM PRIZE! 7/9/08 By Peter Wilson
Inspired by the performance of Team GB, Team MJ entered the Wolverhampton Half Marathon Relay Challenge to try to give our lady runners some long overdue support in the prize winning stakes.
Weeks of preparation (we even did a reps session in the pouring rain, and it doesn't get much more dedicated than that) led to our trophy hunting fivesome gathering at Morrisons at 7am this morning for some motivational words before a car journey peppered with gems of positive thinking. Even Mark's sat nav was joining in: "Turn left in 100 yards then search for the hero inside yourself".
The race, which set off just ahead of the main half marathon/marathon event, was divided into five stages of between 2.2 and 3.5 miles. Our captain Nick had carefully plotted his running order to put his fastest man (Rich) on the longest leg, his slowest (me) on the shortest one, and him on the final leg to milk the applause - captain's privilege and why not.
Until the race was underway it was unclear how competitive it would be. A winning previous time was 1 hour 15 which we knew was beyond us, but it was felt that if all went well we could maybe do 1 hour 20, which depending on the opposition could put us in with a shout.
Andy B got us under way with a storming first leg, so much so that when he handed over to me he was ahead of the entire field and I had the entirely new experience of being the front runner. Off I went with people looking at me and doing a collective double take at the race apparently being led by a guy in his 40s rather than the sleek specimens they expected to see.
Amazingly, by the time I handed over to Mark not only were we still ahead of everyone, the next relay runner was way behind, and with some of our strongest legs still to come things were already looking good.
Mark ran about 3 miles before handing over to Rich, who flew around his leg before the imaginary baton (in fact a hand slap) passed to Nick who burned off the last 2.2. Only three half marathoners crossed the line before Nick, who completed a team time of 1' 20' 45 that won the relay race by some distance.
It was great to have won and of course we all then thought PRESENTATION? (having all of us long waited for such a moment). No one seemed to know if there was a prize for the relay team, so we hung on to find out and sure enough there was. It was a proud moment as a local DJ announced the success of the Malvern Jugglers! Suddenly our performance looked even better, not only running 13.1 miles quite fast but keeping three balls in the air all the way round.
We walked away with a large engraved glass trophy and £50 in vouchers to complete a very satisfying morning's work. The Malvern Jugglers are already planning to return next year to defend their title when, who knows, we might even have added sword swallowing to our repertoire.
Team MJ: Nick Hitchings (capt), Andy Blannin, Peter Wilson, Mark Cusack and Rich Walsh. Thanks also to Dave Edwards (support driver).’
Thanks, Peter and on behalf of everyone, well done Guys ! - Chris

Update on the Malvern Hills Conservators Recreational Advisory Panel
By our Representative, Ruth Johnstone......
‘ As I mentioned last week, the first meeting of the Panel was held on Thursday. The purpose of the panel is twofold: firstly, to raise awareness by users of the Hills of what the Conservators do and why; secondly, conflict mitigation between users. The panel comprises sixteen members: four Conservators and twelve representatives of the main groups using the Hills. So, in addition to the MJs, we have the Malvern Soaring Club (those guys flying model aircraft off North Hill), bird watchers, dog walkers, horse riders, mountain bikers, hashers, ramblers, orienteers and so on. The panel will meet twice a year, and opinions/recommendations will be put forward to the Conservators’ Land Use Committee which, in turn, will infiltrate into the Conservators’ Management Plan. The aim is that representatives on the panel should be elected by their respective groups once a year.
Two points relevant to MJs came up.
First, if the MJs were to hold a race over Castlemorton, we will need to liaise with the Castlemorton Common Co-ordinating Committee to avoid ruffling any feathers amongst local residents.
Second, the Conservators are tentatively considering changing the rules concerning mountain biking on the hills. A rough quid pro quo seems to be on the cards: in return for allowing cycling anywhere (i.e. not restricted to bridleways, as at present) on the northern and central sections of the Hills, mountain biking would be forbidden south of the Hills Hotel. The Conservators are particularly anxious to prevent further damage to the British Camp monument which, rightly or wrongly, they attribute to mountain bikers. As I say, at the moment this is a very sketchy proposal. In the meeting, I noted that any extension of biking down to the Hotel would provide welcome rehydration (the bridleways actually stop around Black Hills, so you can’t legally cycle further), and suggested that the forbidden area for bikers around Camp should be restricted to areas higher than the path above the reservoir, thereby enabling access to the southern Hills. I suspect that several MJs also mountain bike, and so would be affected by any changes. Please do contact me (ruth@northmalvern.co.uk) with any views so that I can represent them. Best regards, Ruth ‘
Thanks, Ruth

Progress with the MJ’s Race by Stuart Brown
‘ At the last AGM we agreed it was time to organise our own race for other clubs and runners to take part.
We got off to a good start last winter and proposed the following.
A 10k or similar distance, to be run in summer on a week day (Wednesday) evening, similar to the Bugatti.
We wanted to keep the route as traffic free as possible and identified Welland Village Hall and the Pheasant as a good base, with plenty of car parking, toilets, changing facilities and ‘catering’.
We are keen to get things moving again and this morning Chris took one of the Sunday groups on a run from Welland Village Hall on a possible course round Castlemorton Common.
There was plenty of mud, but the consensus was that with some modification we could probably use it as the basis for our route.
On race day and ‘running’ up to it we are going to need lots of help marshalling, organising entries etc.
The immediate need is for 3 -4 people from across the club to join Chris and I to finalise the route and the basic arrangements. If anyone has been involved in organising a similar event, or has good contacts with St Johns Ambulance etc., or is keen to help then please let me know.
e-mail stuart.brown37@btopenworld.com or phone 01886-833581 ‘

Beacon Race Training
I’m told around 8 MJs were in the Rose Bank Gardens last Wednesday to run the Beacon Race course. They started at 7pm when there was only just enough daylight to complete it. This Wednesday they will be meeting at 6.30 if you would like to join them. We will, of course be meeting at 7pm at Castlemorton also. The choice is yours.
Starting next Sunday we will meet in Rose Bank Gardens 9.30am and every Sunday until and including the fifth of October. Hopefully there will be enough of us to split into two groups, those that want to do the Beacon Race course and those would who would like a run elsewhere.

Berlin Marathon Training Run
‘ From Steve Roode – we will be going from 75 Yates Hay Road at 5.30pm (or just after) Monday 8th September. We are planning a 21 miler at a steady pace, mostly flat with easy bail outs at 10, 15 and 17 miles. The plan is to get back into Malvern in good time to use the streetlights to finish the run. We have 5 Joggers so far - the more the merrier.
Cheers, Steve ‘

Joggers in The Gazette
See page 28 in this week’s local paper for some very familiar faces. Under the heading of ‘Sprint round pubs raises £400’, there is an excellent feature and photograph, taken outside The Marlbank on the Pubathalon (or is it pubathon) which took place last bank Holiday Monday.
Thanks to the MJ who submitted that one, Steve or Peter, I presume.

Possible MJs Handicap Race Mk III?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/7593509.stm
Thanks to Peter Cowling for this one.

Race Reports
gloucester county championships 10k race report.3/7/08 by Richard Walsh
‘ me,malvern jogger will green and two other malvern locals chris davey and gregg edwards decided to give this mind boggling race a go at cheltenham athletics stadium. it consisted of a 10k on track meaning 25 laps! conditions were horrible(strong headwind) but despite this we all achieved new personal bests. i finished just ahead of chris in a battle for 2nd place in 36.00 dead. will green achieved a new pb of 38.52 and gregg 40.42. 3 medals to be taken but sadly was not eligable as not a gloucester born athlete or resident. anyone looking for a pb though, you cant get much flatter! ‘
Thanks, Rich
Beacon 10K Road race, 7/9/08 by Julie Caseley
‘ This was the 17th running of this annual road race and the ladies of Malvern Joggers were well represented in the shape of Ruth Johnstone, Katie Morris, myself and Gillian McCann. This was a lovely relatively flat course with only 2 short, sharp hills in the first couple of miles. Although the race HQ was in a fairly small village hall, the ladies of Angels Running Club made tea and coffee as well as a superb selection of home bakes to rival the Upton Bishop Big Dipper spread!!
Approximate finishing times were Ruth 41 mins, Katie 45 mins, myself 51 mins and Gillian 52 mins. The prize presentation was nearly an hour late but well done to Ruth for being 1st Fem Vet 40 and to Gillian for doing a PB.
Also, apparently, MP3 players and iPods are banned under England Athletic rules so my inspirational music had to stay at race HQ and I had to be content with listening to myself huffing and puffing for 10k!! Regards,Julie ‘
Thanks, Julie
Tree Trot 10K, 6/9/08 by Julie Caseley
‘ We travelled through some heavy downpours to get to this race at 6 p.m. but fortunately it stayed pretty dry for us during the run although it was a little splashy in places. The route itself was varied with lots and twists and turns but generally flat. Eleven Malvern Joggers braved the dull conditions. There were 136 runners and in finishing order the MJ's were:-
Jonathan Green 5th, Graham Cramp 13th, Katie Morris 14th (3rd female), John Ashley 22nd
Steve Roode 26th, Phil Jackson 27th, Alison Merley 30th (1st FV45), Steve Ollis 31st
Julie Caseley 37th, Samantha Caseley 50th, Carole Green 119th
The prize presentation did not take place after the event because of the terrible conditions but prizes will be sent through the post. Regards, Julie ‘
Thanks again, Julie
Adidas 5K Womens Challenge B'ham, 7/9/08 by Emma Gooderham
‘ I did my usual and nearly pulled out of this one as I pulled a hamstring during a speed session last saturday. Already deciding not to do the race, I woke up and thought I'd go for a quick 2 miler to see how leg was healing and then go for a bike ride and swim. I did my run, changed into cycle gear and then it started raining, so had breakfast and thought hang on my leg feels fine. So then changed back into running kit and did the Adidas 5K Womens Challenge instead. I made a cautious start to see how my leg was, then stepped up a gear and came in 2nd in a time of 17.37, over a minute quicker than last time. Finally I got to go on stage and got presented with flowers and a silver engraved plate (4th last year). Unfortunately, unlike previous years they did not show the top 3 on TV, so after ringing around my entire family, was disapointed that B'ham didn't even get a mention. On the plus side it was the rain that stopped me cycling so the weather lately does have some (very minor) pluses. ‘
Thanks, Emma

News on the Ledbury Chase - from Julie Caseley
‘ Don't know if you know, but the Ledbury Chase isn't taking place this year. We spoke to some club members at the Tree Trot on Saturday and they said that after organising the Eastnor 7 quite a few members went on holiday and they found it was impossible to make arrangements for the Ledbury Chase so soon especially with it being such a small club. Ah well, maybe next year - at least we know now. Regards, Julie ‘
Thanks, Julie

Run Reports
The Sunday Slowcoaches Report by Jayne Ackroyd......
‘ Six of the 'Ladies who like to chat' met for a run from Morrisons' this morning at 9.30. The group comprised Ginny, Nicky, Lin, Jude, Alison and myself. We ran a steady 7.5 miles at between 10 and 10:30 min per mile pace, and covered a number of interesting topics including scarecrows, Sunday lunch plans and forthcoming holidays ! We ran out towards Callow End initially, then turned off Jennett Tree lane towards the Worcester road. We then carried on out towards Leigh Sinton on Stocks lane and back along LowerHowsell road. A nice steady run. Blood pressure and adrenalin levels were raised by Jude's description of Jude Law in his swimming trucks as seen recently in the Scilly Isles, and lead to several of our number managing a creditable sprint finish back through Morrisons !
The same group have arranged to meet on Wednesday at 6.30 pm at Rose Bank Gardens to start the 'slow lane' Beacon Race training. Jude has promised that she can remember the route ! All welcome to join us – particularly suitable for Beacon first timers, and those, like me, whose memory of just how tough a race this is has not been diluted by the passage of time ! We may not do the full route initially, but will aim to build up over the next few weeks. Cheers,Jayne ‘
Thanks, Jayne
The Sunday Mudlarks Report by Chris Barker......
As you may already have read in Stuart’s MJs Race piece, we undertook a run around Castlemorton Common this morning.
I was expecting a mudfest but I have to say I’ve known it whole lot worse. That’s not forgetting the pools of muddy water and bog-like conditions elsewhere in case anyone was disappointed with a lack of mud. A round trip was undertaken skirting the common to the West, safely running past the home of Eric’s dog! Then, past the Gullet car park and on down to and around the Mill Pond at Golden Valley and back to Welland. A most enjoyable run if you like that sort of thing punctuated by the occasional mini-meeting on the various aspects of that particular route.
Thanks to the other 7 MJs who joined me i.e. Stuart Brown, Roger & Jill Brierly, Vikki Sivertsen, Kareen Mann, Paul Newman and Dave Gibson.

World Joggers
Have you seen the World Joggers page on our Website lately. Our webmaster Peter, has added a few more photos recently and there are now 32 images of the famous shirt in famous places. There are no prizes for this but if there was Carl Flint might get one for his photos taking wearing the MJ top in front the Taj Mahal and the Coliseum (Rome) though not at the same time! And Roger Moore can be seen wearing his in front of the Sydney Opera House!
Also there are MJs snapped in Spain, USA, Thailand, Cyprus, NZ, France, Singapore, Hungary, Spain, Bulgaria, Hong Kong, Denmark, Turkey, Morocco
The new photos are, I think, Peter in Perth (Aus), Roger in Sydney, Steve O in Brest, France and Clare & Paul in Turkey.
Don’t forget if you’re going on holiday, the first things to pack are money, passport, tickets, MJs running top and camera.

Forthcoming Events
Here’s Julie Caseley with her Club Captain hat on with news of the Four Stage Road Relay Championships.
‘ I've received correspondence from the English Road Running Association in conjuction with England Athletics advertising the NIKE Senior Women's 4 stage Road Relay Championship at Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield on Saturday, 18 October at 12 noon.
Entries can only be accepted through the online entry system at www.race-results.co.uk This event is being held on the same day as the Men's National Road Relay 6 stage event which starts at 1.30 pm. A maximum of 3 teams can be entered per club but only A teams will be eligible to win Championship Team medals. Athletes must be registered
with England Athletics to be eligible to compete. Teams must wear the same club vests.
Please email me if you want to have a go at this - entry fee is £26.00 per team. Distance is 4 x 4.315 kms ‘
Thanks, Julie

Phil’s Jackson’s Appeal
‘ On October the 5th I shall be one of a group of Malvern Joggers running in the Great North Run. I'm raising money on behalf of MacMillan Cancer Support and would be very grateful indeed for any sponsorship people give me. I have set up a Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/philipjackson2 so donations can be made securely on line quickly and easily. My target is £500 so please help me get there. ‘

Steve Ollis’s Appeal
‘ On Sunday 28 September I will be running the Berlin Marathon 2008. As a way of having fun, and at the same time hopefully raising money for charity, I thought of a simple competition…..to guess how long you think it will take me to complete the 26 miles 385 yards!
All I ask is £1 per guess………………paid up front!
You can have as many guesses as you like…………
THE NEAREST TO MY TIME WINS £25!!!
Any monies raised above this amount will be donated to: The Motor Neurone Disease Association
I will even give you a little help – here are the marathons and times completed to date:
New York 4 November 2001 4h 29m 23s
London 14 April 2002 3h 56m 51s
Dublin (a nightmare!!) 25 October 2004 5h 04m 01s
Paris 9 April 2006 4h 25m 24s

Steve Ollis

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Wed 10/9 Gullet car park, Castlemorton 7pm, or Rose Bank Gardens 6.30pm
Sun 14/9 Mercer/Shuttle 10K – Kidderminster
Sun 14/9 Runaround 5 & 10K Trail Races – Holt Heath, Worcester
Sun 14/9 Club Run – Rose Bank Gardens, Great Malvern, 9.30am
Wed 17/9 Swan Pub – Hanley Swan
Sun 21/9 Run to Remember’ 5 & 10K, Worcester Countryside Centre
Wed 24/9 Morrisons
Sun 28/9 Upton Bishop Big Dipper
Sat 11/10 Worcestershire Beacon Race
Sun 26/10 Stroud Half Marathon
Sun 26/10 MJs Walking Group – near Abergavenny contact Eric on 01684 576 576 or Jenny Field.
Sun 26/10 Birmingham Half Marathon
Sun 2/11 Guy Fawkes 5 – Tewkesbury

Happy running,
Chris

Chris's Blog from 31 August 2008

Listen up y'all

The Great Malvern Pubathalon – 25/8/08
Well done to everyone who took part in the above event last Bank Holiday Monday. I counted 18 MJs in total most of who completed the whole thing which consisted of 15.5 miles, 11 pubs and 12 drinks. Which meant that anyone who had a half in each pub, had to run uphill to The Lamb, the final leg, having drunk 6 pints, and it certainly felt like it. Come on legs, don’t fail me know!
An interesting statistic reveals that of the 6 hrs 21 minutes total for the event, 2 hours 21 mins were spent running which means that 4 hours and 1 min were spent ‘in the pub’. A bit more time was spent in The Lamb at the end of it when a free burger was available to all runners plus another drink if they wanted one.
11 pubs and 12 drinks? That was due to having a second drink in the Marlbank were we felt it was the least we could do as, without asking, the pub provided us with pizza and chips for free, and put the money we spent on drinks in our collection! If you’re thinking of going to a pub somewhere, try and make it the Marlbank. We owe them one!
The weather was fairly kind to us and we added another pub to the scheduled 10 which was The Pheasant at Welland where we sat, or lay, on the grass and chilled-out. Very pleasant.
Also, it was good to see other MJs enroute such as Eric in the Chase Inn, Paul Bullman at the Malvern Hills Hotel and Stuart Day at the Foresters Arms plus others.
Now firmly established in the MJs calendar year, look out for next year’s.
In the end, Peter tells me, we raised £627-00 (plus 1-75 euros) for Acorns Hospice.

Beacon Race Training
As an alternative to doing the usual Wednesday night thing, every Wednesday during September you can meet in Rose Bank Gardens, Belle Vue, Great Malvern and run the Beacon Race course, starting, next Wednesday at 7pm. The meeting time for subsequent Wednesdays will be earlier due to diminishing daylight. I won’t be there so will someone let me know what time you would like to meet the following week please.

The Usual Wednesday Night Run
Now that the summer is drawing to a close, that’s if it ever started, it’s time to start thinking about a return to Morrison’s. So, this will be on the 4th Wednesday of the month and then every Wednesday until further notice.
So for September it will be 3/9 – Three Kings, Hanley Castle, 10/9 – Castlemorton 17/9 - Swan, Hanley Swan,
24/9 - Morrison’s

Malvern Hills Recreational Panel
Ruth Johnstone, our representative on the above panel has the following request.....
‘ The MHDC Recreational Panel meeting is this Thursday. Please could you ask MJs to email me if they have any issues with regard to running on the hills that they would like MHDC to consider’. Email... ruth@northmalvern.co.uk

Clare’s Hash
From Clare Hill – ‘ I have just finished laying my hash trail which starts from the Railway Inn, Malvern Wells at 7pm on Tuesday night. The course is 5.40 miles long and the pace you run at is entirely up to you. I promise it is a pretty flattish course and nothing too strenuous!
If you've not been hashing before then please come along it is good fun and we are a friendly bunch, also if it is your first time you can enjoy a free drink in the pub afterwards. There will be food in the pub afterwards should anyone wish to eat. It is Chicken or vegetable curry & rice at £4.00 each.
Hope to see as many MJ's as possible, otherwise see you all on Wednesday. Thanks,Clare (aka **Hash Thrasher**)’
Thanks, Clare

Race Reports
Horse vs Man, Callow, Here ford 31/8/08 by Julie Caseley
‘ This was a horse v. man event and I'm still not quite sure who won!
Anyway, a great time was had by all. The runners started first with horses and riders in hot pursuit at intervals. The first horse passed me at 3 miles but it wasn't until the end of the first lap at 7.5 miles that another 3 galloped by. Half way round the 2nd lap I passed 3 horses, surprisingly, but they were walking and once they'd had their rest, they cantered passed and I never saw them again. For a rural course over grassy tracks, this was a surprisingly flat course with only a few very manageable inclines including one at the finish, needless to say. There was a 100 m section of mud followed a mile or so later by an above the knee high stream crossing which conveniently washed the mud from the shoes. I managed to jump over 2 hay obstacles
on each lap but probably incurred 8 faults for refusing to jump the rustic pole!! I passed a man pushing his son in a wheel barrow twice on the first lap so I was a little perplexed how he managed to pass me without me seeing him - some local knowledge and a short cut or two probably helped!!
This event was organised by Wye Valley Runners and at £15 was a tad expensive but entry fees were donated to Str. Michael's Hospice so it was well worthwhile.
It was lovely to see a fellow MJ at the event in the form of Lucy Prosser who finished in about 2 hrs 15 mins, approximately 5 mins ahead of me.
As far as a long training run was concerned, it was a bit unusual and slightly faster than I would normally have done (9:40 m/m) but, having said that, I had people to catch - isn't it always the way in a race!! Regards, Julie ‘
Thanks, Julie

Run Reports
Ginny’s Run, this morning......
‘ Nicki, Lin, Eric, Jude,Viv, Bruce and JayneC joined me for a gentle trot of about 7 miles this morning. We had a leisurely. chatty run,despite the heavy rain for the last few miles it was an enjoyable outing! Thanks to those who joined me.’
Thanks, Ginny
Chris’s Run, this morning......
There were only 5 of us this morning and could I keep up with them? Well if it wasn’t for the dreaded Croft Bank, the one by St James School.....
An anxious look at the weather forecast the day before convinced me that it wouldn’t rain before midday. Wrong, as we all got drenched, but what’s new. Accompanied by Graham C, Kareen, Paul N and Phil J we met at the Clock Tower where Ruth J came out to say hello. After the customary stirrup cup, we set off for West Malvern playing field, left through the woods and on to the Worcestershire Way. I thought picking the right path through the woods would have been the difficult bit but finding the WW was more of a problem. Thanks, Paul. I did reccy this one but I was going round in the other direction which is not a good idea.
We then went for a look at Whitman’s Quarry, which not one of the best known, but it’s probably the biggest. This, according to Phil is or has recently been the habitat of the Peregrine Falcon. We didn’t see one but we think we heard one so that’s better than nothing. I expect Mr P. Falcon told all his friends that he’d seen the Malvern Joggers some of whom were sporting their green and yellow plumage. Then after that it was back through Vinesend, Cradley, Mathon and West Malvern by the quickest route i.e. country lanes to avoid getting any wetter although I don’t think that was possible. 8.66 miles and 1 hr 31 mins.
The Berlin Blog by Steve Ollis
‘ The training for The Berlin Marathon continues…..
An 18 miler this week and one which I thought I might treat with some caution…..
8 A.M. on Saturday morning and I was joined by Jonathan G, Carl A and Roodie.
I’d planned the route the night before just hoping it would be the whole 18 miles……
From my house in Upper Welland, the first part was MT past Graham Hick’s pad to Hanley Swan.
It was then roads all the way…Hanley Castle, Upton, Castlemorton, Birtsmorton, back to Castlemorton then home again.
At about 5 miles I shouted across to the others...”If last week was Gerry and the Pacemakers, this week must be Johnny and the Hurricanes!!”
Not much later in the run, I found out what it is like to eat my words!!
We were all going so well to start off, with Jonathan setting a mean pace, but I could tell that both Roodie and I were struggling.
It was a bit of a wake up call really….marathon running is never easy, but this was only 18 miles!!
Perhaps the fact I’d shared one bowl of ‘cheesy chips’ for my tea the night was my downfall…I think a ‘dickey tummy’ was Steve’s.
As promised, bacon sandwiches and several cups of tea were presented on our late arrival back home.
A big thank you to Theresa for doing the honours with the catering and also to the other Malvern Joggers for the company. Next….21 miles!! ‘
Thanks, Steve

Forthcoming Events
Jon Newey previews the Stretton Skyline 14/9/08
‘ If anyone wants a crack at fell racing, then you might not have to travel as far as you think. The "Shropshire Fells" around Church Stretton (about 1 hour 15 mins drive away) are as tough as anything the northern fells have to offer. As described in Richard Askwith's book Feet in the Clouds, these southern fells have taken many a cocky northern visitor down a peg or two and the Long Mynd Valleys race in February is bluntly described as "a bastard".
Anyway, if anyone fancies a fell race, then Sunday 14th September could be your day as this is the annual Stretton Skyline race. It is 18 miles and 4500 ft of ascent so you'll need to be reasonably fit to get round, but I think that many of the Joggers would enjoy it, at least when they look back on it a few days later!
It climbs onto the Long Mynd before descending to the A49 and crossing to Ragleth Hill, Caer Caradoc and Lawley. Crossing the A49 again then back up onto the Mynd and back down to Church Stretton.
It's generally blessed with good weather and last year the requirement for carrying the fell racing safety gear was waived, although if it is rainy, be prepared to take this along. I can let you know what this is and lend this if you need it. You are never far from civilisation and so if it all gets too much, the HQ can be reached without Mountain Rescue! There's even 2 drinks stations. Under 3 hours is considered pretty quick and 2h30mins might well win it, so expect to be out a while.
If you fancy a crack at it, then get in touch for more info. jonnewey @ waitrose.com
Some pics of the route here http://lardyboy.blogspot.com/2008/07/long-mynd.html
Thanks, Jon
The Runaround Trail Races 14/9/2008
Runaround, the running shop at Top Barn, Holt Heath has organised the following event/s
According to their website......
‘ September 14th 2008 has three races all in one morning.
Crazy carp dash - 2km of grass route around the lake at Top Barn Activity centre 9.30am start
Runner bean race - 5Km of trail, multi terrain, undulating surface. 10am start
The Runaround - 10K of trail, multi terrain, undulating surface. 10am start
All races are traffic free & marshalled. Prizes, memento to all finishers.
Changing area - toilets - farm shop for refreshments - free parking ‘
For more info see www.runaround.co.uk

New Member
Welcome to Miss Debbie Hildick-Smith from Bosbury who is number 125.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Wed 3/9 Three Kings – Hanley Castle / Rose Bank Gardens, Belle Vue 7pm
Sat 6/9 Tree Trot 10K – Westonbirt, Tetbury
Sun 7/9 Beacon 10K – Glos
Wed 10/9 Gullet Quarry car park - Castlemorton
Sun 14/9 Mercer/Shuttle 10K – Kidderminster
Sun 14/9 Runaround 5 & 10K Trail Races – Holt Heath, Worcester
Wed 17/9 Swan Pub – Hanley Swan
Sun 21/9 Run to Remember’ 5 & 10K, Worcester Countryside Centre
Wed 24/9 Morrisons
Sun 28/9 Upton Bishop Big Dipper
Sat 11/10 Worcestershire Beacon Race
Sun 26/10 Stroud Half Marathon
Sun 26/10 MJs Walking Group – near Abergavenny contact Eric on 01684 576 576 or Jenny Field.
Sun 26/10 Birmingham Half Marathon
Sun 2/11 Guy Fawkes 5 – Tewkesbury

Happy running,
Chris

Don’t forget, I need your stuff, anything running related!

Chris's Blog from 24 August 2008

Listen up y'all

Handicap race Mk II,
From organiser Steve – ‘ After a bit of a delay we got the handicap race underway, attached are the results, well done to all the runners who took part.
I have an apology to make to Clare Phillips who was the winner of the ladies race, a slight mistake on the timings (or my addition) saw the prize going to Katie Morris on the night, but I have taken Clare a bottle round to compensate. Clare was 28 seconds outside her time and Katie was 39 seconds out – well done to both.
Mens winner was Stuart day, closely followed by Mike Eaglesfield, who were 2 and 4 seconds outside their predicted times – well done to both.
Winners of the Team prize were Richard Walsh and Lyn Hiles who were 12 seconds outside their predicted time, a great performance, also a mention for Will Green, Gill McCann, Stuart Day and Paul Smith who both came in joint second, 24 seconds outside their predicted times.
I hope you all had a good time.
I must also thank Eric, Julie and Phil as without their help the event wouldn’t have taken place – and also to Chris the “Bolt” for suggesting the course and Donna for putting up with me and doing the computer work - many thanks to all.
One other thing to consider you may not have won anything but a lot of people ran faster than they should have!! ‘

Thanks to Steve for everything including the results which he sent me the following day. The results will be through on the next email.

The Great Malvern Pubathalon – 25/8/08
Our now annual Pubathalon takes place tomorrow (Monday). Here are the details from the website..... ‘ This Summer we will be repeating our very successful Pubathalon event on Bank Holiday Monday, 25th August. There are a few pictures from last year in our gallery. The course is about 16 miles in total and includes 10 pub stops. No legs are more than about 2 miles and we will be collecting money for Acorns Children's Hospice on route. The start (and finish) will be at The Lamb's Beer and Cider Festival in West Malvern leaving at 11:00. You can view last year's course here where we raised over £400. This year's course will be very similar. There are no rules, no entry fee and no prizes. Everyone is welcome to come along and join in the fun, on foot, bicycle, car or whatever you fancy for the whole, or just part, of the course. This year we hope to raise at least £1,000 so please come and support us. The flyer for the beer festival is here. The theme for the weekend is 'Mad Hatter' so please be imaginative! ‘

Please note, I have been advised that the police have already put down ‘no parking’ signs along West Malvern Road, so if you are taking part you will need to get there early to find a parking spot or find some other means of making your way to The Lamb.

Next Walk
Eric has sent me details of the next venture of the Malvern Joggers walking group , as follows,
‘ Next walk is Sunday 26 Oct .
The plan is to drive to the Bluebell at Glangrwyney 2 miles west of Abergaveny and to walk up the Sugarloaf back to the pub for lunch.Distance approx 7 miles/3 ½ hrs
Anyone interested contact Eric on 01684 576 576 or Jenny Field. ‘

Champions League – Extra Races
As we have extended the membership year to the end of the year, the Champions league will finish at the same.
Therefore six extra races have been added, 2 per month. As usual they are those which attracted the most MJs the previous year and will be......
October - Beacon Race & Stroud 1/2M
November - Tewkesbury 5 & Suicide 6
December - Christmas Pudding 10 & Bournville Yacht Handicap

Missing MJ
This week Lucy Prosser has been in touch and she is looking for other runners to join her......’ I am really struggling with my training, and I know it’s due to running on my own, with no real motivation to go any faster, when I run with the joggers, I go MUCH faster than when I run on my own, so obviously this increased my times.
I am signed up for the Dublin Marathon at the end of October so I need to get some serious training in before then. I have started, but I am not pushing myself.
I would like to start a regular run on a Friday morning, at 08:30 from whatever location. Starting w/c 1st September (although on hols for 2 weeks which includes the Fridays 12th and 19th) but then back. Nothing too long or fast, up to 10 miles at around 8 ½ - 9 m/mile pace, off road, on hills or wherever. Do you think you could put this idea out on one of your e-mails and see if you get any response. Next Friday, I will be starting from Gullet Quarry @ 08:30, contouring around Camp and Main hill, over the Wych, up the track to the beacon, back down again and back to the car park via shortest route across hills. It’s 10 miles ish. I have to finish by 10:15 to get onto Pump @ the splash, so I could start a bit earlier (08:10 onwards) If anyone wants to join me, can you get them to call or text me on 07814 581069
But basically, if you know of anyone that wants to run during the weekdays or early in the morning (05:30 ish), I would be very keen to get in touch. Are there any marathon training groups at the moment? I am running twice a week at 05:30 and normally do something like the beacon route or a hill reps session. Lucy ‘
Lucy’s email address is...... lucy@positiveweighing.co.uk

Whilst ‘speaking’ to Lucy, I asked her how Ruth is and apparently......
‘ She is training like mad for triathlon, she did the run-around sprint tri last month and came 4th, but did an extra 300yds in the swim due to going the wrong way! So she would probably have got placed if not for that.’
Thanks, Lucy

Race Reports
Malvern Midsummer Marathon, 21/6/08 by Richard Penny
‘ I'm new to the MJs, but ran the Malvern Midsummer Marathon on 21st June. I don't think anyone else did from the club as the Malvern Half was the next day so I have written a quick race report if you think anyone may be interested?
"The Malvern Midsummer Marathon is organised and marshalled by the Bristol and West Branch of the Long Distance Walkers Association. The route is not marked so runners are encouraged to take maps and compasses to accompany the very accurate pace notes. Unfortunately I took neither so had to to stick firmly with the pack as we climbed the Beacon and North Hill in the wet and misty conditions. The field of 151 had a split start to give the walkers an extra hour to get around the 26 miles and 1500m of climbing. This was more akin to the Neolithic Marathon than a quick tarmac foot race.
From North Hill the route went NW to Cradley then looped south on muddy footpaths past Mathon and Colwall to Ledbury where there was a welcome jelly and cake stop. By this time we had overtaken all the walkers and as I ran through virgin nettlebeds in the Broomeberrow Estate I realised why so many runners were in "longs". From Oyster Hill to Chase End and The Gullet the climbs were severe and the navigation was tricky, and for some the lure of the Mountainbike Mayhem event at Eastnor proved irresistible. The pace notes were meticulous but it was easy to miss some of the small paths and lose big chunks of time. Back on the Malvern ridge the weather had cleared and the views from British Camp and Pinnacle Hill banished the memories of the earlier trainer sucking mud/cow pat mix (NB do not use elasticated triathlon laces on a muddy course!).
>From the aptly named Perseverence Hill I had a steep descent to the primary school on the Lower Wyche Road to surprise the organisers (who were inside drinking tea) by getting home first in 4hrs 43mins for a well earned pasty. This was a well organised, fun event more akin to a long orienteer if you are a front runner. Running tights, a map and camelback are all worthwhile investments for anyone looking to run next year. I know I will definitley be back."
Thanks, Richard
Leek Half Marathon, 24/8/08 by Julie Caseley
‘ I really do pick 'em. This morning I was up at 6.15 am and away by 8 and nearly 2 hours later I was at Leek for the 23rd Leek Half Marathon. I did this 2 years ago and I think I must suffer with selective amnesia as I'm sure the hills weren't as steep or as frequent in 2006! Anyway, we got off to a slightly early "prompt" start with no
frivolities. The course was a sort of pan handle so I set off bearing in mind that the first 1/2 mile downhill was therefore also the uphill finish! Then there was 3 miles of uphill of varying degree, i.e. steep or very steep, then a relatively flat bit between mile 3 and 4. The rest was just up, up and more up, 1220 ft of ascent in all up to the Roaches. Felling relieved to be at what I thought was the highest point before a rapid descent, turned out to be more wishful thinking than fact, as the road continued to climb. It was only at about 8 miles that the 3 mile descent began but only down to Meerbrook Reservoir, then there were 2 miles of "undulations2 which involved 2 downhills and 3 uphills - the finish being the toughest of all, probably because I'd given it my all and was knackered!
The organisers suggest adding at least 5 or 6 minutes on to your flat course time for half marathon so I was very pleased to finish in a time of 1:56:08, which was 6 1/2 minutes faster than 2006, far better than my target time of just under 2 hours - who says you don't improve with age! Regards, Julie ‘
Thanks, Julie

Run Reports
Steve Roode’s Berlin Blog 10/8/08
‘ A quick note on our training run - 5 joggers massed at the start, Gerry, Jill, Usain Jackson, Big Steve and I (little Steve). We went via Half Key to Leigh Sinton - down Stocks lane over to Guarlford via Madersfield road. Jill and Gerry peeled off in Barnards Green (Gerry had already done a few miles before getting to mine). The 3 of us carried on down St Andrews Road and went for it up Peachfield. A nice easy run in back to mine to complete a half marathon in well under 2 hours.
Many thanks to all who joined us today it really is nice to have people to train with, good company and fun along the way - "Gerry and his Pacemakers"!!
We celebrated with a bottle of Stella on our return - she went down well!!

Steve’s BBQ thoughts.....
‘ As we chilled out drinking our beer, we got talking about the lousy summer we have had and the lack of a summer BBQ, we sort of came to a conclusion that we could still do one but make it after a Saturday/Sunday run and make it an afternoon BBQ obviously depending on the weather(we do get some good weather in September usually). Roger and Jill also came round (Roger has been training in secret and looks fit - according to Donna!) and added to this idea, they said they had a large Paella dish big enough for 40 people.
What do the rest of the Joggers think? A joint effort would be good and a chance for some camaraderie - Roger knows some good "ice breaker" party games!! Cheers, Steve ‘
Thanks, Steve
Sunday Run – 24/8/08 by Chris Barker
Eight finely-tuned athletes or MJs, delete as applicable, appeared live at the Bluebell this morning! I think. The pub was closed so we decided to go for a little run and I’m pleased to say we were honoured with the presence of ‘not very often seen MJs for different reasons’, Harry Macleod and Roger Moore. One is a member of the Armed Forces, the other is probably very glad he isn’t. Also joining me were Gill Mac, Lin H, Paul N, Carl A and Duncan C.
We set off through Poolbrook, then Fruitlands and then on to the Worcs Golf Club where I think disturbed some of the club members who were ‘holeing-out’ nearby. Sorry chaps! Fore! From there we went to Upper Welland where I had planned to go take everyone through the St Wulstan’s Nature Reserve but that would have added an extra mile so that’s one for next time. www.stwulstans.org.uk if you want to see what it looks like without running through it.
Then back along the trackbed of the old Malvern-Tewkesbury railway line, on to St Andrews Road, through ‘The Green’ and back to the pub. Thanks for joining me folks. 9.5 miles in 1hr36.39. All being well I will be leading a run next week, meeting in West Malvern and running through Cradley and Mathon. That’s if I survive the Pubathalon.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Mon 25/8 Great Malvern Pubathon – meet at The Westfest
Wed 27/8 Old Bush – Callow End
Sat 6/9 Tree Trot 10K – Westonbirt, Tetbury
Sun 7/9 Beacon 10K – Glos
Sun 14/9 Mercer/Shuttle 10K - Kidderminster
Sun /9 Ledbury Chase 13MT
Sun 28/9 Upton Bishop Big Dipper
Sat 11/10 Worcestershire Beacon Race
Sun 26/10 Stroud Half Marathon

Summer Runs. April until September:-
1st Wednesday of the month – Three Kings, Hanley Castle
2nd Wednesday of the month – Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton
3rd Wednesday of the month – Swan pub, Hanley Swan
4th Wednesday of the month – Old Bush, Callow End
5th Wednesday of the month – British Camp

Happy running,
The Rusty Bolt

Don’t forget, I need your stuff, anything running related!

Chris's Blog from 17 August 2008

Listen up y'all

Handicap race Mk II, Next Wednesday 7pm
As supplied by Organiser Steve Roode......
‘ Here are the details of next Wednesday's Handicap race to be run from The Swan at Hanley Swan.
The course is all on road so no mud, it is 3.75 miles or 6k long and relatively flat.
The idea is to estimate/predict what time you will do the course in, you will also be paired up with another Jogger who will also do the same.
We will be trying to pair up slower and quicker runners and the pair who are closest to their predicted time will be deemed the winners.
You can e-mail me with your time if you want to participate - and I will try and pair people up before the night the more the merrier.
We may also have prizes for the closest Man and Woman to their times.
A £1 donation would be appreciated to go to towards the prizes.
If anyone would like to help out with the organisation or timings it would be more than appreciated.
We will also do the results after we have a well deserved pint in The Swan
I look forward to seeing you all there ‘
Steve’s email address is steveroode1@yahoo.co.uk

Comment from Chris – We hope to see as many of our runners taking part as possible. Everyone is welcome but you can only qualify for a prize if you are a member. No-one is allowed to wear a watch, or time their performance in any way. The format will be the same as the Bournville Yacht Handicap which is race we have run in the past and will be different to our Castlemorton Handicap in that you will be paired off with another of our runners whom you may not know. This should ensure that afterwards you will be better acquainted with each other and if you are not as close to your predicted time as you thought, your partner may be spot on, so you could still win. If it is a success we will probably repeat it next year and the least we can do is to give it our support if only to thank Steve who has boldly offered to be the organiser. Also, we will need a few marshals so any offers of help will be appreciated.

2008 MJs Pubathalon
Please see the flyer attached to the email containing this week’s CN.

Emma’s GB Time Trial
From Emma Gooderham – ‘ To keep you updated on my ultra running, I have definately been selected to represent GB in the European and World 100K Championships in Italy on 8th November (I have the official letter!). I had to do one more thing though - proove that I am fit enough by doing a time trial in Boddington under the watchful eye of the GB ultra distance coach. I had to do 50K at a reasonable pace and passed this test! I cannot reveal my time as other members of the GB team have not done the time trial yet and it would be unfair to put the pressure on them, even though it is not a race as such. So hopefully if I continue to stay fit and well I will go to Italy in November and fly the GB/Malvern Joggers flag! On the downside, I am unable to compete in a lot of local races at present as it has to fit in with my training schedule set out by the GB coach, so missed Bugatti and will miss the Beacon race. I am however hoping to compete in the Hydroactive Womens Challenge 5K in Birmingham and then the New Forest Marathon, so may see some fellow joggers there? Emma ‘
Thanks, Emma

Race Reports
M Js Annual Running Weekend Away – Morecambe Cross-Bay Challenge Half Marathon, 10/8/08 by Chris Barker
Wow, where shall I start. It was quite a weekend and they say expect the unexpected but we didn’t expect what we got. I’ll start with the camping and ‘anyone want to buy a tent and an airbed and sleeping bag. Well not after I’ve been in it, perhaps. Which reminds me has anyone heard a song called ‘Slip inside my sleeping bag’ by ZZ Top?
This was actually the third Annual Camping/Running Weekend Away of the Malvern Joggers although the camping is optional and will be dropped from the title. The sensible option turned out to be Roodie’s B & B or the posh Holiday Cottage favoured by the Caseley party. Meanwhile, myself and the Cowling gang toughed it out under canvas at Red Bank Farm. It was only £4 per night’s stay. Perhaps the price varies depending upon the weather.
Having fought the elements to put the tent up single-handed, I looked upon it and noticed it looked a bit lop-sided. This is the point when I would normally say ‘a fine erection’ but not this time. That done, I thought I would try to make contact with my fellow club mates only to find that Peter must have a different phone number to the one in my phone book. I thought about sticking my head out of the tent and shouting his name but he could have been in the next field, which he was. I then managed to contact Steve then Peter rang me and we arranged to meet in a Wetherspoon’s pub in Morecambe called The Eric Bartholomew which is Eric Morecambe’s real name apparently.
Draught Guinness £2.20 a pint, pity I was driving. That’s another reason to stay at a B & B in town instead of out in the sticks somewhere. Then back to the tent and the sound of the raining hitting it. At least it drowned out the nearby snorers!
Sunday morning, Race Day! And it wasn’t raining! But that didn’t mean the sun was out. So it off to the Eric Bartholomew for breakfast, this time without a pint of Guinness although there were others part-taking in the falling-over water even at that time. They were probably not the ones doing the Cross Bay Challenge!
Off to race HQ where the six MJs got on their respective coaches depending on their race number, for the trip to the start at Lakeland Leisure Park, Flookburgh. The coach boarded depended on your race number meaning we were split up. A lengthy journey then followed as we were taken around the coastline into Cumbria at the southern end of the Lake District ready for the run across the bay. When we got off the coaches, we met up with the ‘bonus’ Malvern Jogger. You expect to bump into a few of your fellow MJs at a local race but there was our own Ray Durnall all the way from Callow End! Only 180 miles away, what Joy! We also met up with the Amazing Feet RC of Kidderminster who were as good as their word when they said they would be there too. They also field seven runners.
At the race HQ area there much standing around, a delayed start, a few speeches, and a very elaborate safety announcement which suggested the organiser’s still had the cockle-picking incident in mind. We were then lead pied-piper style to the start and off we went on our great adventure across Morecambe Bay. Or at least that was the plan. It was all going well and a very strong wind was side-on to us. As the race progressed we went in a more easterly direction so the wind was then behind us and we were bowling along the firm sand all at a sub 8 minute mile I would say, and what a fantastic place it was. At this point I was running alongside Julie and saying how much I was enjoying it. This was one of the lowest tides of the year and there was sand as far as the eye could see all the same colour and texture with no debris or cockles or chinamen or anything. I understand not all of our oriental friends were actually recovered although I didn’t see any while I was out there! It really was just like a desert with firm sand, just right for running on interspersed with the odd inlet to splash through.
We then got to the halfway point to find ourselves running directly into the wind with a sandstorm in our faces, so a gritty performance was needed, you might say. Like most of the other competitors, I assume, I was working up a bit of a sweat with the result that the flying sand was hitting me and staying there so I ended up coated in it. There was even some in my ears next day and yes I did have a shower after when I got home!
After about 30 minutes of this, the Garmin told me that we were actually running away from the finish not towards it. What was going on? It never occurred to me that we were running back to the start until we actually got there. After all, it looks different when you are coming towards it than when you are leaving it. At this point we had run 10.8 miles and I still thought we were going to end up at the finish with the race then becoming a 16 miler perhaps, not the half marathon we had been promised. A few hundred yards on and Steve who was in front of us, run back to Julie and myself. It turns out that he had already finished as we did a little further on. In actual fact there was no finish to this race and there will be no results. It didn’t finish, it just ended. At the point where we finally stopped running there was no crowds, no finish gantry just a drinks station and the coaches that we arrived on that were there to take us to the finish where we were reunited with our friends and supporters and given our Goody Bags, t-shirt etc.
So what happened? It’s a unique event and that’s it’s attraction but staging it is problematic and possibly dangerous.
The bay isn’t completely flat as it contains inlets such as the Kent Channel. It was necessary to cross this at around the halfway point to continue to the finish. It should have been no more than knee deep but due to high winds blowing towards the mainland a considerable amount of water had been carried up the channel making it impassable. Apparently the leader couldn’t make his way through it so it would have been even more difficult for those at the back. The planned Cross-Bay Walk featuring three of the Cowling party was also aborted but the race as a whole was still a very memorable experience which is only possible in an organised event such as this also, as promised Central TV were there to capture the event and on the following evening their coverage was aired and included an interview with our own Samantha Caseley. So, it was something of an anti-climax. Despite a lengthy journey up there and a high entry fee, we didn’t get what we paid for but as far as I know, those taking part accepted the situation and at least a large amount of money would have been raised for Cancer Care.
Why not join us next year when we are already thinking about the location and event for 2009. First Dartmoor then Race the Train then Morecambe. It’s never without incident! Don’t know about the camping though!
The cast:- Chris Barker, Steve Roode, Julie Caseley, Samantha Caseley, Peter Cowling, Louise Cowling and Ray Durnall
Supporting Artists:- Yvonne & Vikki Cowling (+ boyfriend), Paul Caseley, Donna + (Donna & Steve’s) 2 children
Standish Woodland Chase, 17/8/08 by Julie Caseley
‘I'm back from a lovely weeks' holiday in Ambleside (the weather could have been better!) after a perculiar (and slightly scary) Morecambe Bay Half Marathon last weekend.
However, today was another day and another race. It was the Standish Woodland Chase 10 mile Multi Terrain and it's been 3 years since I last did this one - it'll probably be another 3 years till I do it again!
It starts at Horsemarling Lane and heads up, up and up for 11/2 miles to Standish Wood, then more inclines along the trails. There was more mud than I was led to believe so I was pleased I wore my trail shoes.
There was a rocky downhill section but it didn't seem to make up for the uphills - isn't that always the way?! I was quite happy to have finished the one lap before the realisation struck that I had to do it all over again! Yes, it's one of those 2 lapper things but at least I could look forward to the 11/12 mile downhill stretch back to the start. A very tough race - and our reward - help youself to a cup of very dodgy looking water from a barrel!! I'm sure it was probably a lot cleaner for those who finished earlier! My time was 1:28:08, 2 mins. slower than 2005. Regards, Julie’
Thanks, Julie

A bit more from Keith Wilkinson of Central TV re. Morecambe Half
‘Many thanks for your comments. Glad you liked the piece. I found it an exciting race to take part in, once I had got over my pre-run nerves. One thing that comes across in the bay is its sheer beauty as well as the potential for it to turn really nasty, very quickly. I found it hard work at the end, but that was probably down to not having had enough time to train up to half-marathon distances. The 30 mph sandstorm didn't help (well, not on the return trip!!). Maybe one day I will come out to Malvern and have a run with some of your members, if that would be ok. I have now joined the BRATs in Birmingham and they are very nice people too. Thanks again, Keith ‘

Running on a regular basis can slow the effects of ageing, a study by US researchers shows.
‘ Elderly joggers were half as likely to die prematurely from conditions like cancer than non-runners.
They also enjoyed a healthier life with fewer disabilities, the Stanford University Medical Center team found.
Experts said the findings in Archives of Internal Medicine reinforced the importance that older people exercise regularly.
The work tracked 500 older runners for more than 20 years, comparing them to a similar group of non-runners. All were in their 50s at the start of the study.
Nineteen years into the study, 34% of the non-runners had died compared to only 15% of the runners.
Both groups became more disabled with age, but for the runners the onset of disability started later - an average of 16 years later.
The health gap between the runners and non-runners continued to widen even as the subjects entered their ninth decade of life.
Running not only appeared to slow the rate of heart and artery related deaths, but was also associated with fewer early deaths from cancer, neurological disease, infections and other causes.
And there was no evidence that runners were more likely to suffer osteoarthritis or need total knee replacements than non-runners - something scientists have feared.
At the beginning of the study, the runners ran for about four hours a week on average. After 21 years, their weekly running time had reduced to around 76 minutes, but they were still seeing health benefits from taking regular exercise.
Lead author Professor James Fries, emeritus professor of medicine at Stanford, said: "The study has a very pro-exercise message. If you had to pick one thing to make people healthier as they age, it would be aerobic exercise.
"The health benefits of exercise are greater than we thought."
Age Concern says many older people do not exercise enough.
Figures show more than 90% of people in the UK over 75 fail to meet international guidelines of half-an-hour moderate intensity exercise at least five times a week.
Gordon Lishman, director general, said: "This research re-confirms the clear benefits of regular exercise for older people.
"Exercise can help older people to stay mobile and independent, ensure a healthy heart, keep weight and stress levels under control, and promote better sleep.
"While younger people are barraged with encouragement to lead healthier lifestyles, the health needs of older people are often overlooked."
Thanks to Peter Cowling for supplying this.

Run Reports – 10/8/08
Six MJs gathered at Morrison’s this morning namely Amanda G, Lin H, Graham C, Carl A, Stuart H and myself.
I’m surprised there was not more given that there wasn’t much in the way of races on, not that it mattered.
When I was trying to dream up a route it occurred to me that we hadn’t been in the Storridge direction via the Worcestershire Way for some time and out of the map loomed a very large hill called ‘The Beck’, too good to miss! It’s 206 metres above sea level. The run lasted 1 hr 36 and was a bit more than the 10 miles max I promised. 10.27 , in fact. Total ascent (all the ups added together) was 863 feet. All MJs coped admirably with 1 or 2 going for gold towards the end. Lin even had enough energy left to do some shopping in Morrison’s.

Beacon Race 2008
Peter Cowling tells me that..... ‘ John Brook, the Beacon Race organiser, is reserving the block of numbers from 10 to 50 for the MJs running the race this year. The application form can be downloaded from the web site at www.beaconrace.co.uk ‘
Be one of the top 40 – enter soon!

Forthcoming Race
The organisers of this one would like you support so they have sent me the details to pass on to you......
‘ The Noah’s Ark Trust annual ‘Run to Remember’ 5km and 10km all-terrain run and our 1km Family Fun Run is being staged again on Sunday 21 September 2008 at the Worcester Countryside Centre.
Check our website for further details on this fun day out at www.noahsarktrust.co.uk and to access the course map and application form, or contact us on 01905 745735.
Perhaps you could advertise details of our event on your website?
Thanks for your help and hope to see you there!
Stuart Potter, Community Fundraiser, Noah’s Ark Trust
07841 538649, 01905 745735, Stuart.p@noahsarktrust.co.uk ‘

Message from Jill Brierly which includes the above race
‘ We've just got back from 1 weeks trekking in the Alps - too steep to run! - although there is an Alpine 1/2 marathon taking place this weekend - maybe a joggers trip for the future?! It looks like lots has been going on in the Malvern joggers world in our absence!
I think I forwarded this email(Run to Remember) to you before we left, could you give it a plug in your next newsletter?. Many thanks, Jill

Steve Roode’s Charity Appeal
Could you forward this to all the Joggers please.
Just to let you all know that I now have a fundraising webpage. If you would like to sponsor me for the fast approaching Berlin Marathon in September you can by going to
www.bmycharity.com/steveroode
This year I am running for Children with Leukemia, any donation will be very much appreciated no matter how small.
Many thanks, Steve

Club Kit
Our Kit Organiser, Steve, he’s a busy chap you know, has sent me the following message......
‘ I now have now received the new supply of kit. The prices are:-
Reflective Bibs £5.00, Vests £12.50, T – Shirts £15.50, Long sleeved £16.50 ‘

Membership
Another new member! Welcome to Richard Penny. Member No 125.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Wed 20/8 Swan pub – namely Swan, Handicap Race
Mon 25/8 Great Malvern Pubathon – meet at The Westfest
Sat 6/9 Tree Trot 10K – Westonbirt, Tetbury
Sun 7/9 Beacon 10K – Glos
Sun 14/9 Mercer/Shuttle 10K - Kidderminster
Sun /9 Ledbury Chase 13MT
Sun 28/9 Upton Bishop Big Dipper
Sat 11/10 Worcestershire Beacon Race

Happy running,
Chris

Don’t forget, I need your stuff, anything running related!

Think I might change my name to Bolt, see if that works!

Chris's Blog from 03 August 2008

Listen up y'all

Membership Year Extension
As expected, the vote on extending the membership year was unanimously in favour. The current membership year will now end on December 31st. Subsequent membership years will be January to December.
Our Champions League club competition will also be extended to finish at the end of the year and will include six extra events.

Bugatti 10K Transport
Message from Andy Milton regarding the minibus to the Bugatti 10K on Wednesday........
‘ The mini bus is now full (timings to follow) , there is another one available for hire if someone is prepared to drive.’
‘After taking advice from fellow joggers about timings here is the latest on the mini bus to Bugatti .
1745: Bluebell (Barnards Green)
1750: Splash
1755: Link Top (carpark at junction)
1805: Upper Welland (bus stop at top of road)
The following have confirmed seats, Chris Barker, Graham Cramp, John Green, Phil Jackson, Jon Newey, Steve Roode, Stu Brown, Katie Morris, Carl Anthony, Carl Flint, Andy Blannin, Barry Hughes, Steve Ollis, Rich Walsh, Julie Mitchell (may cancel)
In reserve Maria Liviero+1
Things may change due to the timings and people cancelling however at present we are looking at £5 a head.
My phone number is 07962 230885 for any further info ! Regards, Andy ‘
Thanks, Andy

Please note, on Wednesday at Hanley Castle, some familiar faces will be missing. Can one of our ‘senior’ runners take charge please. Thanks.

Race Reports
Tenbury 10K, 3/8/08 by Chris Barker
I’ve always loved Pembrokeshire with its extraordinary beauty. It’s a magical part of Wales situated on the extreme west coast and has a rich Celtic heritage. Tenbury? I thought you said Tenby! Oh well. It’s a bustling market town apparently and at least it looked a bit better than this time than last year following the floods.
How this event has grown. I remember it when it was just me, 2 guys and a dog. At least I finished fourth. Its popularity doesn’t surprise me as it’s what I would call a nice little 10K even if it is the most hilly one I can think of right now. Not forgetting THE HILL, that is, I won’t forget it although I did run it all unlike some of those around me (not MJs) and isn’t it annoying when someone you overtook who was walking, finishes in front of you! It’s certainly not a PB course (unless you’re Jayne A) but good training for the Bugatti as someone remarked. Good training for anything really.
I counted ten MJs taking part, who were, Andy Milton, Chris Barker, Jerry Greer, Jayne Ackroyd, Julie Marshall, Katie Morris, Phil Jackson, Steve Roode, Steve Ollis, and Richard Walsh.
After a post-race comparison of running performances a number of MJs walked to the nearest pub for some rehydration while I stayed on for the presentation. There were no team prizes but there was a prize for first, second and third in each age group and I’m pleased to say it was more glory for the MJ’s ladies with Julie M and Jayne A winning a bottle for finishing third in their respective age categories. They will be posted on to you girls. That’s two in two weeks for Jayne. She’s obviously hit a rich vein of form. Can anyone stop this woman?
I wonder what Julie C was up to. Ooops, here she comes now.
Brecon 10, 3/8/08 by Julie Caseley
‘ We ventured back into the darkest depths of Wales again for the 2nd time in 2 weeks. It started to rain in Brecon just before the race which wasn't such a bad thing as it was quite humid but then it stopped and you could say the conditions were perfect. The race itself is lovely, run in the shadow of the Brecon Beacons and it's not as hilly
as you'd expect it to be, in fact most of it seemed to be downhill, except of course for the hill at 8 1/2 miles. Then there was a nice downward sweep of 1 1/2 miles back to the athletic track wtih 3/4 lap to finish. This was the 25th anniversary running of the Brecon 10 and they're having trouble finding someone to organise it next year so this might be the last.
I finished in a time of 1:22:57, 1 min 30 secs slower than last year but apparently the world record was broken (subject to verification) - the winner finished in something like 53:59, Also at Brecon was Barry Hughes, a fellow MJ. Some guy strode past Barry at 3 miles and me at 7 miles asking if we knew Phil Jackson - so Phil, Rob Morgan says Hi!! Hope you all had as much fun at Tenbury. Regards, Julie’
Thanks, Julie
Borrowdale Fell Race, by Jon Newey
‘ After last week's worrying episode at Newent half marathon I was looking forward to running the British Champs fell race at Borrowdale, especially as i missed doing it last year. However......
......The Borrowdale Jinx continues......Went to the Lake District for the big fell race as planned. With the race scheduled for Saturday morning we decided to make a trip of it and travel up Thursday and come back on Monday, exactly the same plan as last year. Arriving on at 1.30 pm, the rain started just as the tent was up. It pretty much continued that way until at 4.45 am on Saturday morning when the decision was taken to abandon ship (just like last year). We had water surrounding the tent and partially succeeding in trying to get inside (just like last year).
Everything was rapidly bundled into a soggy muddy ball and shoe-horned into the car and we set off for the M6 south (just like last year). Had i been on my own I might have gone on to the race anyway, but it's a bit different when you've got a 2 year old to keep amused in foul weather while I'm off getting wet and muddy on the fells.
Malvern's Richard Lloyd (Mercia Fell Runners) managed to fly the flag for Malvern and got round the 17 miles (6500ft ascent) in 4 hours 23 mins (not seen this year's times, but normally under three hours will win it and under 4 is considered quick). He reported that the going was very tough due to the large amount of rain that had fallen (and was still falling). The descents were particularly trecherous, but at least getting water was not an issue!
Arriving home in Malvern to fantastic weather on Saturday, I went for a two hour run with Stu Bellamy (now resident in mid wales) and Matt Scriven. Which reminds me, you can see the latest of our mid-week adventures (me, stu, matt, Richard and Shola the dog) at http://lardyboy.blogspot.com/ where we tackle the Long Mynd and recce the Stretton Skyline Fell Race’.
Thanks, Jon

Forthcoming Race – Upton Bishop Big Dipper
The organiser emailed today of the date for this year’s event as follows.....
‘ The Upton Bishop Big Dipper will be held on Sunday 28th September at 11am. An entry form is attached and we hope that you will take part again. Even better, tell your friends and fill your car with fellow competitors!
Regards, Nigel Misselbrook
You can find an entry form on the website.... www.uptonbishop.org
Upton Bishop is in Herefordshire, just past Ledbury. So, local I would say.

Runaround
If your thinking of taking advantage of Oli’s special offers at the Runaround running shop, I’m told it’s not open on Monday so probably best to go another day. Thanks to Jon N for that.

Membership
Welcome to our latest member (120) who is Jon Ashley.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Wed 6/8 Three Kings – Hanley Castle
Wed 6/8 Bugatti 10K
Sat 9/8 Cranham Boundry Chase 5.8M
Sat & Sun 9/8 & 10/8 Annual Running Weekend Away – Morecambe
Sun 17/8 Standish Woodland Chase
Mon 25/8 Great Malvern Pubathon – meet at The Westfest
Sat 6/9 Tree Trot 10K – Westonbirt, Tetbury
Sun 7/9 Beacon 10K – Glos
Sun 14/9 Mercer/Shuttle 10K - Kidderminster
Sun /9 Ledbury Chase 13MT
Sun 28/9 Upton Bishop Big Dipper
Sat 11/10 Worcestershire Beacon Race

Happy running,
Chris

Chris's Blog from 27 July 2008

Listen up y'all

Membership Year Extension
On Wednesday at British Camp we will be asking the members to vote on an extension to the membership year up to the end of this year to enable us to change it to run from January to December in future years. I have emailed all members regarding this but one or two bounced. If you are a member and have not received this email let me know and I will send again.

Annual BBQ
I would like to bring you details of what has been a regular event in our annual activities but unfortunately I am unable to. The problem being that the weather was so bad mid-June to mid-July that no-one was even talking about BBQs so we appear to have missed our slot. Now we have eventually hit some good weather, it’s getting dark too early to get back from The Hanley’s, Callow End or Castlemorton to make it worthwhile unless anyone has any other ideas?

Two Messages from our Secretary Phil
‘ Entry forms for the MacMillan Westonbirt Tree Trot 10k are now available. Entry is limited to 500 places and it will get booked up very quickly.
And............
‘ Details of all Malvern Joggers members are now on the England Athletics website and members are advised to check their entries to make sure that everything is correct (date of birth, address, email and phone number). Members can edit their own entries (or if they have a problem doing that, which is very likely) they can let me know and I'll do it for them. Members can also add a photograph to their own entry.’

Race Reports
White Horse 5k Road Race Series race 3 of 4 17/7/08 by Phil Jackson
‘ Last night, Emma Gooderham, Richard Walsh and I went down to Sandhurst (just north of Gloucester) for the White Horse 5k Road Race Series race 3 of 4. I was amazed at the high quality of the competition. I ran the fastest race I have ever run in my life (average pace 6.56 minutes per mile) and ended up 92nd out of 107 finishers! The fastest vet 50 established a new World Record for his age group!! Richard finished it in 17.06 and Emma in 17.36 (hope I've got the times right, guys) 3rd woman (and 40th overall) to finish and just one second behind the second woman (who had come up from all the way from Kent for the race). It was well worth doing and I feel I've learnt a lot. Listening to Emma and Richard in the car on the way home talking about their 5.30 minute miles was like being on a different planet! Yours, Phil ‘
Thanks, Phil
Gloucester Half Marathon, 27/7/08 by Chris Barker
This one, which should possibly called the Newent Half Marathon, got off to a rather unusual start as around 100 of the 300 approx competitors hadn’t made to the start on time before the race was underway. It starts in a very narrow country lane which the runners fill completely prior to the start of the race and is still open to the traffic. It was due to start at 10.30 and it did, so anyone who was still walking to the start, which included me, then had to run to the start and do a bit extra.
This was my first run in this one for three years and it had faded a bit from the memory, it’s an age thing, but it did include some pleasant scenery on an undulating course, although that wasn’t enough to take your mind off the heat which took it’s toll on some with the result that I overtook over twenty who had stopped for a walk.
I spotted 10 other MJs running although, unfortunately, as far as I know two didn’t finish. Those leaving the start line were Carl Anthony, Graham Cramp, Emma Gooderham who was first lady and won the £100 prize as a result, Jayne Ackroyd, Jon Newey, Katie Morris who finished in 1.50 in only her 4th race, Phil Jackson in his special racing turban, Mark Cusack, Rachel Samuel and Richard Walsh. Apologies if I’ve missed anyone.
Personally, the bad news is that I was 14 minutes slower than in 2005 Another age thing! but the good news is that the last mile was my fastest which I covered in 8.14. An excellent goody bag though with enough energy drinks to last another six races.
Here’s Jon Newey’s assessment of his race.....’ I had a bad day. Set off OK, but felt ropey after 5 miles or so. carried on and got slower and slower. Then got dizzy and threw up. Walked to 10 mile point and waited for a lift back. Feel totally wacked now despite not really doing anything. Don't know what it was really. I'm not the best in heat (give me the Fells in January anyday!), but I've never felt like that before.
Off to the Lakes next weekend as it's the British Champs Fell Race at Borrowdale. Hope I'm OK for it. might not bother if it's still this hot! ‘

The Kymin Dash, 27/7/08 by Julie Caseley
‘ The Kymin Dash, run in the small town of Monmouth just inside Wales, is a wonderful 7 miles (well actually 6.37) of forest tracks, field paths and minor roads. It starts at the Leisure Centre then circles the town before heading out over the river and then the ascent to the top of the Kynin begins. The 850 ft climb is quite challenging but the view of Monmouth from the top is lovely, especially on a day like today. The race finished at Chippenham Mead, the town's recreation ground. This event is incorporated into Monmouth's annual carnival festival fortnight so the town is bustling with everything from a street fair to a dog show. We were fortunate to see the parade through the town but it took us a while to escape and head back over the border!!
It's certainly a run I'll have another go at next year even though the marshalling was a bit dodgy! I heard a few people saying they'd gone the wrong way mainly because a marshal wasn't at a strategic point telling runners to go down a forest track to head back into the town.
I only knew where to go because I was following someone who'd obviously done it last year! Otherwise a great day out, great atmosphere and efficient prize presentation. I was in the super vet category (more over the hill than the vet category!) and finished in a time of 56:25.
The weather was very hot so I hope everyone survived the Gloucester Half this morning. Regards, Julie ‘
Thanks, Julie

Membership
Welcome to new member Mike Eglesfield. We now have a total of 119 members.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm.
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a local run or a race
Wed 30/7 British Camp
Sun 3/8 Tenbury 10K
Wed 6/8 Bugatti 10K
Sat 9/8 Cranham Boundry Chase 5.8M
Sat & Sun 9/8 & 10/8 Annual Running Weekend Away – Morecambe
Sun 17/8 Standish Woodland Chase
Mon 25/8 Great Malvern Pubathon – meet at The Westfest
Sat 6/9 Tree Trot 10K – Westonbirt, Tetbury
Sun 7/9 Beacon 10K – Glos
Sun 14/9 Mercer/Sh