Club News

Chris's Blog from 31 December 2006

Fellow athletes,

Membership
Welcome to our newest member, David Sutton. We now have 71 paid-up members. Another 29 and we can have 3 club London Marathon places next year!!!!! Also I am now in possession of 28 membership cards which should mean there is a card for everyone who has not yet had one including those that we don't have a membership number for yet. Their cards will say 'applied for'. I will have these with me next Wednesday so if you haven't had yours yet, please ask me for it.

Local Runs
Much as I would like to have been at Morrisons last Wednesday, I was otherwise engaged but I am told there were 20 or more runners there.
Meanwhile at Hanley Swan (Sunday morning) 12 MJs met for a run of about 8 miles and I'm claiming a personal best for dragging people through muddy and swamp-like conditions, just beating Eric's run the week before.

A quote from Runners World - latest edition
'Joining a club is a great way to train in a social and safe environment. When your considering which club to join, choose one that welcomes beginners and takes part in the kind of races you'd like to tackle' (Race for Life included - Chris)

Race Report
Wheaton Aston Roman 10K - 27/12/06 - by Julie Caseley
' Nick Hitchings and I represented the Malvern Joggers at the above race yesterday, 27th December. The weather was lovely and the course was fast and fairly flat, in fact there seemed to be more downs than ups, which is always a nice surprise. There were nearly 350 runners and Nick finished 66th in a time of 42:18 and I finished 187 in a time of 49:21 which is pleasing still to be coming in in under 50 mins especially since Nick and I both measured the course as being slightly longer than 6.2 miles. Even though it was a little further than most people would want to travel (1hr 15 mins), it was well worth it '
Thanks, Julie

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run (9.30am) or race
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Wed 3/1 Morrison's & pub night at the Nags Head after the run
Sun 7/1 Local run - meet in Upton-upon-Severn on the car park opposite the church with the spire
Sun 7/1 New Years 10 - Epney, Glos
Sun 21/1 May Hill Massacre - Huntley, Glos
Sun 28/1 Not the Roman IX - Stratford
Sun 4/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Sun 11/2 Wyre Forest 8
Sun 18/2 Muddy Woody 6
Sun 25/2 Bourton 10K
Sun 4/3 Gloucester 20
Sun 11/3 Stafford 20
Sat 17/3 Rhayader 20
Sun 18/3 Ironbridge 1/2 Marathon
Sun 25/3 Stafford 1/2 Marathon
Sun 25/3 Clevewold 14MT
Sun 25/3 Forest-of-Dean Trails 1/2 Marathon

Weekly Reminders
Mustering - run to the back on the group from time to time.
Wear something light on the dark nights
Race forms on website - pick the Links/Forms icon on the website for race entry forms

A report on the Hereford new years day 10K will follow next week

Happy New Year running,

Chris

Chris's Blog from 24 December 2006

Fellow athletes,

2007 London Marathon
Congratulations to Paul Newman and Clare Hill who take the 2 club places after they were successful in the draw at the Christmas Party last Wednesday.

Christmas Party
Talking of the party, I think a good time was had by all. Thanks to everyone who was there for coming.and thanks to everyone who helped in anyway especially Peter Cowling and Andy Milton.

Website updates
A few words from Webmaster Peter:-
I thought I'd just drop you a quick note to let you know that we have some pictures from the party on our web site all ready as well as some from Dartmoor and the Beacon race AND two new World Joggers

Local Runs
Being Christmas Eve, I didn't expect many more than 3 of us to turn up at the Castlemorton this morning. In the end there was 22. Something of a record! With leader Eric saving the deepest mud until last we made our way over towards Bromsberrow and back covering a total of just over 7 miles.

Some encouraging words - from one of our newer runners:-
I'd just like to say a great big thankyou to Jenny and all her helpers over the last few weeks for setting up the gentle joggers group. I'm sure this comes from many of us, not just me, but I'm well aware that these people are giving up their own running time to bimble around the block with us. I'm sure it's a bit like trying to organise an unruly school trip at times, but they all keep smiling and encouraging us!!
I've never run in a group before and it certainly makes it a lot easier. There are always welcoming smiles when I turn up looking a bit lost and cold on a Wednesday. My confidence is improving and I'm hoping my stamina and ability might follow. Christmas pudding permitting!!
Thanks again and merry Christmas to you all.
Thanks, Alison Bayley

Champions League 2007
As previously stated, the MJs Champions League for 2007 will cover only the 9 months from January to the end of September so that thereafter it will be 'in-synch' with the membership year. It will then run from October until the following September every year.
The races it consists of are those which attracted the most MJs the previous year and are generally 2 per month except May (3) which is a busy month and June (1) which is a quiet month. So, the Champs League races for next year are:-
New Years Day 10K, Not the Roman IX, Muddy Woody, The Treat, Stafford 1/2 Marathon, Scenic 6, Shobdon Wood, Malvern 1/2 Marathon, Tewkesbury 1/2 Marathon & 5M, Crowle 10K, Warndon 5,10,15K, Timberhonger 10K, Pitchcroft 10K, Bugatti 10K, Tenbury 10K, Tree Top 10K, and Cirencester Park 10K.
Out go the Crocodile 8, Lake Vyrnwy Half and unfortunately the Ledbury Chase. Replacing them are the Malvern Half, Tree Top 10K and Cirencester Park.

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run (9.30am) or race
Wed 27/12 Morrisons
Sun 31/12 Swan pub - Hanley Swan
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Wed 3/1 Morrison's & pub night at the Nags Head after the run
Sun 7/1 New Years 10 - Epney, Glos
Sun 21/1 May Hill Massacre - Huntley, Glos
Sun 28/1 Not the Roman IX - Stratford
Sun 4/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Sun 11/2 Wyre Forest 8
Sun 18/2 Muddy Woody 6
Sun 25/2 Bourton 10K

Weekly Reminders
Mustering - run to the back on the group from time to time.
Wear something light on the dark nights
Race forms on website - pick the Links/Forms icon on the website for race entry forms

Happy Christmas running,
Chris

Chris's Blog from 17 December 2006

Fellow athletes,

MJs Christmas Bash - 20/12/06
Message from Peter Cowling:-
' We have booked a few extra spaces for the Christmas bash. If you would like to come and join us but haven't got a ticket yet please e-mail Peter at peter@malvernjoggers.co.uk to reserve your place. The remaining few places will be allocated on a first-come basis and you can pay for them on the night.'
and if you would like to bring along a raffle prize that would be appreciated. The more prizes, the more winners.

2007 London Marathon
MJ Richard Walsh has now got into 'London' through the ballot which means at the latest count 7 definitely in, another who may defer his place, one who is definitely deferring her place, a club place and probably an MJ or two taking a charity place.

The Dursley Dozen
Julie Caseley is doing this one on the 11th of February and she would like the company of some fellow MJs. Unfortunately it clashes with the Wyre Forest MT8 but if you've done that one for the last few years as I have you might fancy a change. According to the organisers website:-
' A multi-terrain race of 12 miles over hillsides, roads, woodland, open country, mud and solid rock. Very tough and scenic. The race starts and finishes at Dursley in the south of Gloucestershire, and goes up and down the Cotswold escarpment several times. The start is close to the centre of Dursley, by the Old Spot pub. The race sets of very steeply up a road for 200 metres, and then ascends a woodland track to the top of Stinchcombe Hill. After a short run around the golf course, the route re-enters the woods (steep descent) before climbing (steeply) back out onto the hilltop. The next two miles are on flat and fast road. The course then follows an undulating woodland path leading to a steep and rough descent to the New Inn (which all but the slowest runners will find closed). A steep ascent then leads to the lunar landscape of Breakheart Quarry (drinks station), followed by three miles of track through beechwoods. The final climb, the "Precipice", (almost overhanging: ropes are provided) brings the runners back onto the top of Stinchcombe Hill. From here, good views can be had of those still struggling up the hill. Two miles of grassland, track and finally road descend to the finish in Parsonage Street where a warm glow of satisfaction at completing the course will be experienced. The total length of the course is almost exactly twelve miles with about 1600 feet of descent. There are indicators every mile.'
Good training for the London Marathon!

Local Runs
Last Wednesday I forgot to count the turn-out at Morrisons but I would say it was approaching 60.
Next Wednesday, if you fancy a pre-Christmas Bash whiz around Malvern, be there at 6pm and don't forget to wear your Santa regalia. Last year it was possible to buy a Santa Thong from In-Store near Morrison's. I don't know if they've got any this year.
On the 27th meet at 7pm as normal. After all that sprouts and stuffing, a good blow-out round Malvern may be just the thing.

Injured MJ
Peter Hornsby has been in touch with an update:-
' Just to give you an update, I've been having acupuncture by Mindy at Runaround, and doing various exercises to try to stretch the tendon out (and ideally address the tight calves that probably caused the problem). I'm back to walking now, and going to try and build back up over the next few weeks. '

Running is good for you!
I love reading stuff that tells me that running is good for you even though I already know that. Here's something from another clubs website:-
' Running is a vigorous exercise that improves your cardiovascular system (heart and lungs) in particular. It can also help you reach your optimum weight and tone up your muscles. There is no doubt that running, provided that you apply yourself diligently, will improve your all-round general health, fitness and well-being, and make the rigours of everyday life less stressful and easier to deal with. '
Carry On Running!

Jon Newey's Hash - 18/10/06
http://www.thisisbromsgrove.co.uk/display.var.974405.0.hash_sparks_a_village_mystery.php
A few weeks ago I gave the above link to pick which takes you to the article that was printed in the Bromsgrove Messenger, but I don't know many actually did this so I've reproduced it in full. Its too good to miss:-
Hash sparks a village mystery - By Pete Lammas
Strange white marks that mysteriously appeared on narrow country lanes, disembodied voices and flashing lights led residents in a Bromsgrove village to believe they were under siege from a mystery force. Telephone lines were red hot as neighbours in Dodford called each other to swap information. Several called Bromsgrove police - who dispatched two patrols - and the local Neighbourhood Watch as they puzzled over the white crosses and blobs on the roads outside their homes. One woman, who swept one away outside her home, was astonished to find it had reappeared just minutes later. Some, who believed the cause was a result of human rather than extra terrestrial activity, thought thieves were weighing up likely homes to raid. However, after a while the mystery which set the village alight was solved. It appears that a running club, Malvern Hash, had chosen Dodford for a hare and hounds' type run. The hares leave a trail of chalk or sawdust and periodically call out to give the 50 or so hounds following behind clues as to which direction to take. At one point the trail led through a wooded area on a public path and the lights were torches being switched on and off by the hounds. Later, a police spokesman confirmed that they had also received a call earlier in the afternoon from a resident who spotted a man marking the road and who it was thought might be highlighting properties without alarms. "The caller did exactly the right thing by alerting the police and we would encourage anyone with concerns of this nature, or noticing any unusual activity in their neighbourhoods, to get in touch," he said. The club, which was invited to comment but hadn't as we went to press, ended the run with a meal at the Dodford Inn.

Race Reports
Yacht Handicap 3.6M - 17/12/06 - by Chris Barker
One thing I meant to do before I left is to ask why its called the 'Yacht' Handicap but I forgot, so Santa, can I have a brain for Christmas please? It takes place in Bournville, South Birmingham and as you would expect there were no yachts to be seen, just brummies!
How does it work? Like this:-
Pick a team of two; mixed sex/mixed ability is fine! Then, Predict the time you think your team can complete the course. All runners start at 11.15am. The winning team is the team finishing closest to their predicted time. No-one is allowed to wear a watch, or a sun dial or tow a Grandfather Clock behind them!
A fairly novel idea for a race or should I say an event as running fast has nothing to do with it. Each team picks a name for itself and the MJ teams were:- The Caseley Clan (Julie & Samantha), Ovett & Coe (Chris & Eric) and the infamous Malvern Two (Steve Roode & Clare Hill). As running speed is not essential, many of your fit types were not there but the competitors were a varied lot and included two 'Vegan Runners' as it said on their tops. I don't which planet their from but its a different one from me! It sounds easy and with last years winners The Caseley Clan to share their secret with us (or not) and the first 6 teams winning a prize we expected to come away with something but in the end, despite running well we ran badly because we failed to get sufficiently close to the time we submitted. It harder than you think. But it was good fun anyway and I will do it again next year although I might do something different like, sack my running partner! and if you are racing at this time of year, keep an eye on who's behind you or you might be overtaken by Father Christmas, just like Steve Roode!
There was some compensation though in the food on offer afterwards. The man said 'have as much as you want, its all free' I took him at his word. It seems Bournville Harriers had picked the morning after their Christmas Do to hold the event which meant that all the food which wasn't eaten the night before at their buffet reappeared post race and very good it was too and we won 5 prizes in the raffle, so we did come away with something in the end!

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Sun 24/12 Gullet Quarrey car park - Castlemorton
Wed 27/12 Morrisons
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sun 7/1 New Years 10 - Epney, Glos
Sun 21/1 May Hill Massacre - Huntley, Glos
Sun 28/1 Not the Roman IX - Stratford
Sun 4/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Sun 11/2 Wyre Forest 8
Sun 18/2 Muddy Woody 6
Sun 25/2 Bourton 10K

Weekly Reminders
Mustering - run to the back on the group from time to time.
Wear something light on the dark nights
Race forms on website - pick the Links/Forms icon on the website for race entry forms

Happy Christmas running,

Chris's Blog from 10 December 2006

Membership Cards
Some of our new members have been asking when they will receive their membership cards, if they have not already received them. The problem is that each member has their own unique number given to them by Midlands Counties AA. Our Secretary Carol cannot produce the cards until MCAA have allocated a number and in the past they have been a bit slow in doing so. Having said that, there is a new person responsible for doing this at the MCAA who seems to be more committed than his predecessor, so it shouldn't be long now. In the future this problem will be overcome by the issue of temporary cards. 'Rejoined' members are not affected by this as we already have their number from the previous membership year.

2007 London Marathon
If you are club member and you've been rejected in the ballot and you would like to go into the draw for the club place, please let me know. Five people have expressed their interest so far, Steve Roode, Paul Newman, Judy Newman, Stuart Brown and Clare Hill
Those definitely in are Sim Foreman, Gary Kimber, Alison Merley, Emma Gooderham, John Newey, Julie Caseley and now Andy Blannin although according to Andy
due to other commitments next Spring he may defer his place until 2008. There is also a club place to be filled and some taking a charity place.
Anyone else in that I've missed off, please let me know.

Mustering
Some of our running groups have been getting a bit 'fragmented' on Wednesday nights. This doesn't have to happen because the leading runners can turn and run to the back of the pack which gives them a bit more running and lets the back markers know they haven't been forgotten about.
I have received the following from one of our runners who puts it a bit better than I can:-
' We seem to be getting out of the habit of 'mustering' in our Wednesday groups, perhaps it's time for another reminder. Training with faster runners is a great way of improving- if it doesn't kill you off! Done properly 'mustering' is a brilliant way of giving the range of abilities within a group a challenging and enjoyable run.
Otherwise it's just demoralising to be the last to the top of Peachcroft, whereupon the leaders, having had a good rest set of again.
Mustering:-
Agree some meeting points on the route, before you start or on the way round. When the fastest in the group get there, double back, keep running and join the tail end back to the meeting point. Make sure everyone's OK before you set off again. Preferably let the slowest decide when to start the next leg. If this doesn't prove challenging enough, move up a group, perhaps you should have been there to start with!
MJs, great club.'

Nicky (Salisbury) and her Knee
' Hi all MJ's,
Hope your all well and injury free!!
Well just to up date you on the, on going saga of my knee !
At last after 8 weeks of various coloured shades of plaster casts, they have taken it off!! Having done my physio exercises , like a good girl, a session of , 3 reps of 10 x knee bends, toe straightening, and knee cap tencing , everyday , I didn't have to have another plaster cast!..... Still with my crutches and learning to walk now semi weight bearing!! But oh my! how hairy was my leg after 8 weeks under the cast, I'm going to need a blow torch to remove them. Plus that leg is much thinner than the other one , so much weight sessions needed. Eles when I start running again I'll be going round in circles! Back to the consultant on the 7th Jauary 2007 but still not allowed back on duty until 1st March!!
Anyway, will try and make it to the Christmas party.
Be careful on 'them there hills'! '
Thanks, Nicky

MJs Christmas Bash - 20/12/06
Buffet, bar, band, raffle, fun and games as it says on the ticket and only £10. I've got mine, if you haven't got yours yet you might like to do so next Wednesday. Everyone is welcome. Also we still need raffle prizes. I'm sure someone will be there to take them from you

Message from Andy Milton
' Can you also mention that following my run on 29/11 with the 8 mins group i noticed there were runners with this group who could easily run with the fast group. If anything i ran faster with the 8 mins group than i have done at times with our fast group! '

The return of the Magnificent Eastnor Castle Seven
Looking at Ledbury Harriers website last week I noticed that the above race is making a return in 2007. You may remember me having a good moan about how CRUK had appeared to have hi-jacked it! It was a new event in 2005 enjoyed by a number of us including Eric who won a pair of socks! Unfortunately Eastnor Castle Estates could not accommodate it in 2006. Its actually a 7 mile off-road race in Eastnor Park, part of the local area some of us know quite well and yes it does include running by the Obelisk. It takes place on the 13th of May. Don't miss it.

Christmas Lights Run
For the past 2 years (we've only been around for 3) we have held our Christmas lights run on the Wednesday evening before Christmas. This has consisted of running past the best illuminated houses in Malvern dressed in Santa/Xmas regalia and presenting a crap CD of Christmas songs to the owner of the 'best' house while serenading them with a Christmas carol. At least, that's the theory! Next Wednesday looks a bit early for most householders to go silly with the exterior lights and the following Wednesday will be the 27th which could be a bit late. None-the-less I suggest we all turn up in our festive gear next Wednesday anyway. Well it is Christmas, after all.

Local Runs
Sunday run 3/10/06 - Nine brave hardy soles braved the elements and left the comforts of home to enjoy a pleasant 7 mile Sunday run from The Gullet carpark,over the hill past the Obelisk,into the deer park and back via Ragged stone,after seeing the wind and rain at 7.30 i like many others (including my wife Judith) was very tempted to pull up the Duvet and stay in bed,i was very pleased i didn't for on reaching Castlemorton we were bathed in blue skys and enjoyable running conditions. Many thanks to all who attended. Thanks to Paul Newman for that.
As far as I know, nobody actually counted the number of people at Morrisons last Wednesday although it did look like another 60+ turn-out.
This morning 8 gathered at The Wyche for a run which took us though Colwall and totalled 7.2 miles. I gambled on taking a path across some fields which up until today had been uncharted territory for the MJs and my map said, at one point, 'Ford' (That doesn't mean a car is provided to take you on from there). This brought back memories of Upton recently but I'm please to say a bridge had been provided at this point.
Next Sunday, meet at the same place, Beacon Road car park, The Wyche 9.30am

Race Reports
Sneyd Christmas Pudding Run 10 - 10/12/06 - By Julie Caseley
' Three MJ's represented the club this morning at this 10 mile predominately flat race at Bloxwich, near Walsall in the West Midlands. It was a cold, wet and blustery morning and by the 8 mile mark I was desperate to finish as I was very cold and wet. Anyone with half an ounce of sense would have spent the morning in bed - but then there were quite a few runners this morning at Sneyd Community School, not to mention those running from the Wyche Cutting. I finished with a PB for this course in a time of 1 hr 22 mins 55 secs. Considering the conditions on the day, an excellent run by everyone '
Thanks, Julie

Mortimer Forest Hill Race - 10/12/06 - by Steve Roode
' The race started from Moor Park school just south of Ludlow it was raining as the race started, which made the course even muddier. I found that I was not the only Malvern Jogger on site as Richard (Walsh) and Sid (Jon Starkey) were there along with a number of Malvern Hashers. It was quite a testing route with some big hills along the way and very muddy in places - at least it was for me with my road running trainers on, I now know what I want for Christmas!!
Richard came in around 1hour 18 minutes, I was a bit behind in around 1 hour 43 and Sid came in close behind me. It was an enjoyable race on a testing route but I would recommend it.'
Thanks, Steve

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 13/12 Morrison's
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham / MJs local run, meet Beacon Road car park, Wyche Cutting 9.30am
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sun 7/1 New Years 10 - Epney, Glos
Sun 21/1 May Hill Massacre - Huntley, Glos
Sun 28/1 Not the Roman IX - Stratford
Sun 4/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Sun 11/2 Wyre Forest 8
Sun 18/2 Muddy Woody 6

Happy Christmas running,
Chris

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chris's Blog from 3 December 2006

Fellow athletes,

Christmas Bash
I know joggers don't usually carry money but tickets for the Christmas function will be on sale next Wednesday priced just £10 and you might also want to buy a fluorescent running vest from Kitman Eric priced £5. Then there's the Nags Head after the run if you fancy a little liquid refreshment.

2007 London Marathon
The draw for the club place will be made at the Christmas Do as suggested last week. Let me know if you have been rejected in the ballot and would like to be considered for the club place. This applies to club members only.

Local Runs
Last Wednesday saw another 60+ turn-out at Morrison's for the 4th week in a row.
Whilst, this morning was the first running of the new GJs Sunday morning group. More runners are required as only 3 were in attendance. Running once a week is OK but if you can manage two outings a week, it will make all the difference and you will improve and feel a lot more comfortable with it. 9.30 is not too early and it leaves plenty of time to go to that car boot sale you've been dreaming of, later. Gentle Joggers Sunday morning group, Morrison's every Sunday 9.30am.

Eric's Walk in the Brecon's
Not everyone was running this morning, some were walking as Eric explains:-
' Ten,sorry nine intrepid Joggers(one wasn’t allowed out to play ??)braved the stormy weather on Sunday 3/12 to complete the 1st MJ Mountain Walk over the eastern flanks of the Brecon Beacons.The 10mile walk round the Olchen Valley took in the Cats Back,Black Hill,Hay Bluff then back along the Offas Dyke path along Hattersall Bank back to the start.Despite some expected muddy patches and spectacular gymnastics by Jill and Roger Brierly everyone survived to enjoy the liquid refreshments and excellent pub grub at the nearby Bulls Head at Craswall.
A great day out-watch this space for details of the next event. '
Thanks, Eric

Membership
Welcome to new members Lisa Dainty and Helen Giddings. We now have a total of 69 members.

MJ Sam's latest report from South Africa
' Dear All, I can’t believe it’s December!! Nearly Christmas, although it doesn’t feel to much like that here- Hot weather, no decorations, and as I only visit town once a month I don’t have to see all the shops with their Christmas trees etc.
We have just returned from 10 days in the Kalahari. We had a fantastic time, although a lot of driving was involved. We did see lion, Cheetah, Giraffe etc, as well as lots of spiders, and a night walk to see Scorpions under UV light.
When we got home we had 35 clients to entertain, including catering for them, and doing various guided walks around the reserve, and telling them about the Nature College. It was good fun, but am glad now to have some spare time. I am off for a 25km hike tomorrow with Kate, so will be an early start.
Next week is our first aid course so I will at least be able to practice what I should do in the event of snake bites, broken legs, etc – hopefully I won’t actually have to use it. In 3 weeks time I’ll be in Kenya – it’s all go here!!
MJs - I’m glad to see the Christmas party preparations are well underway, I hope the raffle is as fun as last year!!
I am still trying to continue my running, but was unable to do any during my 10 days in Kalahari, so back to it now. I need to keep it up thou in case I need to run away from those lions.
I see Julie is still leading the way for the most races anyone can fit into one year!
Thank you to those who have sent e-mail & letters – I will respond to letters, but probably not by individual e-mail due to slowness & expense.
Father Christmas (I hope you’re reading this?)
I don’t usually have much on my Christmas list, but this year is different!!
Binoculars(mine just aren’t good enough), Camera(mine has now broken), a car!!, Nature College Fleece, Various Study Books, A water bottle with a carrying strap on it, Trainers, Moisturiser, Sun Block , writing paper, nice black pen……….
I hope to write again before Christmas, but if not-
HAPPY CHRISTMAS, SAM '
Thanks, Sam

Tuesday Running
Don't forget, as well as Malvern Hash meeting on Tuesday, there is another running group meeting at Malvern Splash which doesn't involve chasing through the undergrowth wearing a headtorch while somebody blows a hunting horn! and you will see some familiar faces. Meet at 6.30 upstairs outside the Gym

Website
Peter continues to make some changes to the website. We now have a picture of 2 of our runners sunning themselves in Cyprus on the 'World Joggers' page, race entry forms found on the 'Links and Forms' page and details of the 'Marathon du Medoc' on the home page. Talking of the MdM, its featured in the current issue of Runners World on page 10 and page 73. As it says 'Good wine is served at drinks stations along the pretty course, with oysters at miles 25 in case your not feeling ill enough. More than half the field run in fancy dress. If there was an international poll to find the world's most fun race, this would probably win' There we are then.
Race the Train also gets a mention which is the race we have chosen for our camping/running weekend away this year.

Julie's Sunday Run
which surprisingly wasn't a race!
' I did actually find a race to do today, but I bottled out when the Fell Runners Association rules stated that all runners had to carry windproof body cover, map, compass and whistle!! I mean to say, what would I do with a map and compass?!! It was the Cardington Cracker Hill Race near Church Stretton. The organisers also said it was not suitable for the inexperienced runner and that most of the course is marked or obvious. I decided I didn't want to take the risk so Paul deposited me at the start of Castlemorton Common this afternoon and drove off into the sunset in the direction of Gloucester to look at bathroom suites!! I also ended up in Gloucester, although it took me a little longer. I'm thinking ahead to the FLM and feel that that's one long run under my belt (14.5 miles). The next long run will be after Christmas, probably squeezed in between a couple of races!
Hope everyone enjoyed their runs this morning '
Thanks, Julie

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 6/12 Morrison's - Pub night, Nag's Head after the run
Sun 10/12 Gentle Joggers-Morrisons / Others-Beacon Road car park, Wyche Cutting 9.30am both
Sun 10/12 Mortimer Forest Hill 10 - Nr Ludlow
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sun 7/1 New Years 10 - Epney, Glos
Sun 21/1 May Hill Massacre - Huntley, Glos
Sun 28/1 Not the Roman IX - Stratford
Sun 4/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Sun 11/2 Wyre Forest 8
Sun 18/2 Muddy Woody 6

Happy running, Chris

Chris's Blog from 26 November 2006

Fellow athletes,

Christmas Bash
Tickets are now available for our Christmas function priced £10. We need to know as soon as possible whether you are coming so we can inform the CSSC Club and they will know how much Buffet food to prepare. The evening will include a raffle for which we need prizes, please read on:-
Andy Milton is organising the Christmas raffle this year. The winners will be drawn during the party on the 20th December. If anybody has any suitable prizes which they would like to donate, please could they bring them along on a Wednesday evening and Andy will be pleased have them.

New Gentle Joggers Sunday Morning Group
Some of our newer runners have been enquiring about a Sunday morning group that would suit them. We did have one but then the leaders became unavailable or improved to the point where they were no longer GJs. Having given this some thought I suggest that anyone who wants a gentler run meets at Morrisons at 9.30am every Sunday. Given that we have had 60+ runners for the last 3 weeks, I sure that there are enough people out of all those that this would appeal to. However, they will have to organise themselves as the rest of us will be elsewhere. All this means is that someone, or maybe more than one person can take the lead, decide what route to take around the local area and shout 'off we go'. Easy enough.
In an attempt to gain enough support, this will appear on the website and I will also be plugging it again next Wednesday.

Kit
News from Eric, our Kit Organiser:-
The latest kit order has now arrived.If you reserved any items I will keep them for you. Anyone else requiring club tops see/contact me but don’t leave it too late as stock is limited. We have Vests (£12),Ts(£15) and Long Sleeved Ts(£16). I am also hoping to have 30 reflective bibs by Wednesday price £5 each.
Please give payment to either myself or our club treasurer Alison Merley. A cheque to MJs preferred.
Also please note the following washing advice from our kit manufacturer:
To extend the life and colour of the garment and protect the print against washing abrasion,we strongly recommend they are turned inside out before hand washing in a mild non-detergent product.ie don’t just bung them in the washer with everything else !!!
Thanks, Eric

New Year's Day 10K - Hereford
The entry form is attached for this one which takes place not surprisingly on the 1st of January. Its an easy, locallish, 10k road race and costs £5 to enter if your are a member of the Malvern Joggers or £7 if you are not. £2 extra on-the-day. 17 MJs did this one last year. You can lie in bed trying to remember what you did the night before whilst saying 'never again' or you can do the race. The choice is yours.

2007 London Marathon
We have now received our club place from the London Marathon Organisation entitled to as we are affiliated to the national body. To remind you of the qualification procedure, as agreed at this year's AGM,
1. You must entered and rejected in the ballot and show your rejection slip
2. There will then be a draw made by a respected club member to select the lucky runner
Note, preference will be given to LM first-timers (and I know there is at least one)
Please let me know, as soon as you receive your rejection notification, so I can put you name on the list of candidates.
The Christmas Bash on the 20th of December is probably the best time to make the draw, as an added attraction on the night, but the week before would also be a possibility after the run at a venue to be announced

Local Runs
Last Wednesday 61 were counted at Morrisons with a few more arriving late so another good turn-out which included 8 new runners.
This morning (Sunday), 14 met at the Swan , Hanley Swan, for an 8 miler to Upton and back. The route included an unscheduled run through the River Severn or rather the flood water from it just down from Clive's Fruit Farm, near Upton, if you know it. This involved an approx 100 yard splash through water that was up to knee high. It was either that or turn back and we didn't want to retrace our steps. Anyway, all were agreed it was jolly good fun although a little cold. It was a baptism almost literally for Tim, one of our new GJs, who was having his first Sunday run with us after 2 Wednesdays. Well done Tim for hanging on in there.
Next Sunday we will be meeting at the Gullet Quarry car park, usual time.
Peter Cowling has since emailed me as follows:-
We really enjoyed the run today. Thanks, it was lovely to feel the sunshine on our backs again instead of the rain and the water feature was a rare treat. I'm glad I made the effort to drag myself out of bed. Paul Newman has sent me some pictures he took today and I have put one on our web site to make people who didn't join us feel jealous! I have actually sent this to test if this e-mail address is getting to you.
Thanks, Peter

Membership
Currently stands at 67. Welcome back Andy Lyon.

Race Report
Roving Racer Julie Caseley reports on the Forest of Dean Winter Trails Series - 26/11/06
This was the first of three races to be held at Mallards Pike Lake in the Forest of Dean. The other two races are in January and February 2007. The weather conditions were ideal today with little wind and it was dry, the sun even came out towards the end of the racing. There is the opportunity to compete over 5.4k, 10.4k and 15.4k which (yes, you've guessed it) is 1, 2 or 3 laps of the course (a bit like Warndon Villages, only prettier!)
The first half of the course around the forest has a gradual climb but once half way round the loop, the course descends back down to the lake. At the end of each event points are awarded - the longer the distance, the more points available and the overall series winner (1st, 2nd and 3rd male and female) receive cash prizes. Samantha completed the 5.4k course in a time of 27 mins 42 secs and I ran the 15.4k in 1 hr 18 mins 55 secs. Nick Hitchings also ran the 15.4k in a time of 1 hr 8 mins. Also, many thanks to Dave Edwards for his enthusiastic support today. The only cock-up in proceedings was that the organisers didn't anticipate the number of entries on the day and ran out of medals, so those finishing the 5.4k and some of the 10.4k got medals but the rest of ours are on order!!
Thanks, Julie

Happy Birthday Neil
I have been asked to tell you that its the birthday, on the 13th of December, of Neil Williamson, MJs fix-it man or Sports Remedial Masseur to give him his proper title. He is known only too well to some of our injured-in-the-past runners. The club has sent him a birthday card but if you would like to email him a greeting you will need to do so before he goes away this coming Thursday.

Cyprus Marathon
The organisers have asked me to mention this one to you all so here goes. It actually consists of a Marathon, Half-Marathon and 10K and takes place on 11/3/07 at Paphos, Cyprus. It is some distance from Upton so flood water is not expected. The start is at 'Petra tou Romiou (birthplace of Aphrodite goddess of love and beauty) which puts me in mind of our lady joggers! Post race entertainment will include a dancing group who will perform both Greek and Cypriot folk dance and invite the audience to join in, if the've got the energy that is!
www.ultrasportscyprusmarathon.com

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 29/11 Morrison's
Sun 3/12 Gentle Joggers-Morrisons / Others-Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common 9.30am both
Wed 6/12 Morrison's - Pub night, Nag's Head after the run
Sun 10/12 Mortimer Forest Hill 10 - Nr Ludlow
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sun 7/1 New Years 10 - Epney, Glos
Sun 21/1 May Hill Massacre - Huntley, Glos
Sun 28/1 Not the Roman IX - Stratford
Sun 4/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Sun 11/2 Wyre Forest 8
Sun 18/2 Muddy Woody 6

Malvern Joggers - there's a lot going on!

Chris's Blog from 19th November 2006

Fellow athletes,

2007 London Marathon
Further to last week's list of MJs in next year's LM, Ruth Johnstone will be deferring her place until the following year as she is due to give birth at the start of March. Meanwhile, apologies to Emma Gooderham who I said had an GFA place. As a result of her 3.06 performance in the Cardiff Marathon on the 15th of October, she has qualified for an Elite place on the same start as the professional athletes, I believe. Should be over the start line in well under 20 minutes then.
If anyone else has or believes they have a place please let me know. People will be asking who's in so it would good to have a definitive list. We have a total of 8 so far plus the club place.

Local Runs
Another mega week at Morrison's last Wednesday! According to Gary who can count, there was at least 62 runners split in to 6 groups which became 7. The new GJs went off in two groups, a walk/run group and a continuous run group. About halfway round the walk/run group divided into one that would continue the run/walk plan while the other half enjoyed a continuous run back to base. Having run with the new GJs for two weeks now, I detect some real running talent and it would appear that many would be quite comfortable running with our 10 minute/miler group.
41 new runners have joined us over the last 2 weeks that we know of, although some have run with groups other than the new GJs. Of those 41, 8 are gents and 33 are ladies. A total of 163 different people have run with us this year, as far as I know.
The morning (Sunday) 15 MJs enjoyed the sunshine, meeting at the British Camp for one of our favourite runs down The Ridgeway and past the Obelisk. Further on we split into two groups to enable our quicker runners to include Midsummer Hill in their run and therefore do a bit more. The rest of us came back past the home of Eric's dog! Despite being ready to dealt with it in the most appropriate manner, with a size 8 trainer, it was nowhere to be seen.
Next Sunday we will be meeting at the Swan Inn, Hanley Swan at the usual time of 9.30

MJs Christmas Bash
Wednesday 20th of December (book the next day off work and go mad) at the CSSC (RSRE) Club, Spring Lane. Buffet and live band all for the bargain price of £10:00. Peter Cowling has printed some tickets so please give him or any other member of the social committee your money ASAP. We want as many as possible to be there. Everyone is welcome.

Be Safe, Be Seen
As its dark on Wednesday nights at this time of year, its best to wear something which will make you more visible! Our runs around Malvern invariably mean we will be crossing a road at some point and if your not careful, that could mean an encounter with a passing car. Ouch! The answer is to wear a white top or a florescent Bib. Eric, our Kit Organiser, is looking into the bulk purchase of some Bibs. The price should be around £5:00

Website
Our webmaster Peter Cowling has been busy making some changes to the website and sounds particularly proud with his recently created Slideshow which can be found under the heading 'Gallery' on the menu.

Membership
Currently stands at 66. We have yet to hear from 6 people whether they are rejoining or not.

MJs in the Gazette
We made the local paper on the 10th of this month with an article impressively headed 'Malvern Joggers set of like a rocket' (Tewks Guy Fawkes 5 etc) on page 85, top left if you've still got that one and again in the latest edition, page 86 top right 'Joggers in slog at Sodbury. Thanks to Jon Newey for putting the content together and sending it to the Gazette.

Eric's Walk
Eric Bromage has planned a hill walk for next month..........
Hi everyone,
Details of proposed walk as follows-
Sunday 3/12 or possibly Sat if this works better.Failing this sometime in the New Year .
Olchon Valley Circuit, 10m, 4hrs, but expect weather to be wet and cold.Anything better is a bonus.
refreshments afterwards at The Bulls Head Craswall www.thebullsheadpub.com
meet Splash CP 7.30 for 7.45 depart. We must car share as parking is limited.
start Black Hill CP GR288328. This is very difficult to find, so either we go in convoy or you need OS Explorer OL13. If it looks like snow/ice we will have to cancel as we'd never get to the start! If you are interested plse let me know ASAP. Also if you plan to go to the pub afterwards it would help if you could let me know if you want a proper meal (mains approx £10) or soup/sandwiches so I can liase with the pub. The Bulls Head is a unique real ale pub, with great pub grub-see details on their web site.
If you are interested please contact Eric on elbromage[at]ukonline[dot]co[dot]uk

The Return of The Shewee
I won't explain what it does as I did that last week, but if you would like one of these girls, our own Bob Cartwright or rather his company backpackinglight.co.uk can supply you with one for, I think, £4.99, and guys, Christmas is just round the corner (sorry to mention it) and maybe your looking for something special to buy your loved one this year? Why not buy her a Shewee from www.backpackinglight.co.uk

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Sun 26/12 Swan Inn, Hanley Swan, 9.30
Wed 6/12 Morrison's - Pub night, Nag's Head after the run
Sun 10/12 Mortimer Forest Hill 10 - Nr Ludlow
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sun 7/1 New Years 10 - Epney, Glos
Sun 21/1 May Hill Massacre - Huntley, Glos
Sun 28/1 Not the Roman IX - Stratford
Sun 4/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Sun 11/2 Wyre Forest 8
Sun 18/2 Muddy Woody 6

Race Reports by Malvern Joggers
The Suicide Six(ish) 19/11/06 by Julie Caseley
Steve Roode and I were the two lonely MJ's who took part in this truly cross country run. There was plenty of mud, water and hills to satisfy all tastes. The weather was fantastic - bright, clear and dry (in that it wasn't raining) but it was pretty cold which made the statutory water crossing a bit chilly. I was foirtunate in that I managed to keep upright but the poor fella in front of me stumbled and then was completely submerged. He was OK but a lot wetter than he wanted to be, I'm sure, and very cold considering there was a good 1.5 miles to the finish. I finished in 58 mins 25 secs, 3 mins faster than last year and I think Steve was a good 5 mins ahead of me. Brilliant race if you like that kind of thing!!
Thanks, Julie
Talking of Julie, here's her totally unbiased opinion of last Friday's gig. I haven't paid her to say this although I did buy her some raffle tickets, and I can confirm that she was not intoxicated in any way!
Samantha and I went along to support Chris and the Pontiacs at the Newtown Club on Friday night along with several other live bands. What a fantastic night we had - we're certainly in for a great night on the 20th!!
Even more thanks, Julie

Stuff needed
If you've got something I can put in the weekly blog, please send it to me. It doesn't have to be about running as such, if your a Malvern Jogger and it involves you then that's good enough.

Supercalifragilisticexpialidociousmalvernjoggers

Chris

Chris's Blog from 12 November 2006

Fellow athletes,

Local Runs/New Gentle Joggers
Last Wednesdays meeting at Morrisons was a stunning success with, as best as we could count, 68 people there on a very wet night. The new Gentle Joggers numbered 27 which meant in the interests of safety, it was necessary to split them into 2 groups along with 2 existing runners for each group, a leader at the front and someone at the back to ensure nobody ran on their own. Other than those 27, I noted 5 or 6 other new runners coming back with our other running groups which totalled 6 groups in all.
Well done to MJ Jenny Field for introducing so many new runners to the Malvern Joggers, many of whom I hope will continue to run with us and benefit as a result.

This morning (Sunday) 10 people gathered at Morrisons for a round trip via Bransford and Leigh Sinton.

Talking of Wednesday nights we need more people to volunteer themselves to be run leaders. Its the same people every week (thanks Andy, Paul, Alison, Derek, Eric, Ginny etc, you know who you are) and its no fun asking for volunteers and getting no response. Its no big deal and anyone can do it. Everyone knows their way around Malvern. You don't need to plan a route first. I never have done and I may be tied up with the new GJs for a few weeks, so please help

2007 London Marathon
At this time of year, a number of our runners, in a mixture of hope and anticipation, are nervously looking at the bank statements to see if their entry fee cheques has been cashed. Meanwhile, and as far as I know, those listed below already have a place. If I've got anyone wrong, please let me know and if there is anyone else who has, or believes they have a place, will they also please let me know so I can update the list.
Simeon Foreman - guaranteed place after being rejected 5 years running
Stuart Brown - charity place
Gary Kimber - deferred place from 2006
Alison Merley - Good For Age
Ruth Johnstone - GFA
Emma Gooderham - GFA
Jon Newey - ballot
Julie Caseley - ballot
and not forgetting the club place for one lucky Malvern Jogger.
This makes a total of 9 so far. A lot more than last year's 4 !

MJs Christmas Bash
The Malvern Joggers annual Christmas function takes place this year on Wednesday 20th of December at the CSSC (RSRE) Club, Spring Lane, Malvern. For the bargain price of £10 it includes a buffet, a live band and maybe more possibly along the lines of last years Do.
Everyone is invited, members, non-members, partners, the mother-in-law, bits on the side in fact the whole world. There's room for everyone.
Payment will be required beforehand so we know how many are coming which will enable us to inform the venue. Please inform Peter Cowling of your interest on pcowling[at]mail[dot]com the sooner the better.

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 15/11 Morrison's
Sun 19/11 Suicide Six(ish) - Sedgeley, West Mids
Wed 22/11 Morrison's
Wed 6/12 Morrison's - Pub night, Nag's Head after the run
Sun 10/12 Mortimer Forest Hill 10 - Nr Ludlow
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford

Race Reports by Malvern Joggers
New York Marathon 5/11/06 by Steve Roode
I arrived in New York on Thursday afternoon, I stopped at the Milford Plaza which I woudn't recommend to anyone!! I did the international friendship run on the Saturday which was good fun. On the day of the marathon I had to leave the hotel at 5.30am to get to the start via bus, it was a long wait at the starting area especially as the it didn't start until 10.10am!! When we did get underway I took everyones advice and took it at a steady pace, the first mile was around 11 mins after that I kept a steady pace I couldn't tell you what pace as I did my usual thing of not wearing a watch, I was very conscience of not going too fast at the start but on reflection I think I should have gone a little quicker earlier on, as I did the second half faster than the first and finished strongly, but on the whole I was pleased with my time off 4.13.01 and my position was 16102 out of over 36,000. It certainly didn't put me off doing another marathon, the highlights of the race for me were running over the Verrazano Bridge and the fantastic support from the crowds lining the route that kept me going. It was my first marathon and I will find it hard to beat the atmosphere. I also made some great friends over the 4 days that I was in New York. The only downside is that I am sick of the taste of lemon and lime Gatoraid. Many Thanks to all of you who supported me with advice and sponsorship. Special thanks to Ros Goodman who became my personal trainer and Stuart Brown for his advice on where to go in New York!!
Thanks, Steve

Sodbury Slog 12/11/06 by Julie Caseley
Near perfect conditions for this 9+ mile "slog". Five MJ's took part today - Nick Hitchings, Amanda Imms, Clare Hill, Annabel Jeffery and myself. This year the organisers took out the 100 or so metre water filled ditch which caused so many problems/delays last year but replaced it with other water features and quagmires! I was enjoying myself far too much (in a sadistic sort of way) and will definitely be back next year. I improved my time by nearly 20 minutes finishing in 1:35:21. Rather than opting for a cold hose down at the finish like last year, there were 2 hot tubs on offer - a no brainer really, although I wasn't 100% sure that the men in the tub with
me were wearing anything below the waist - the water was a bit mirky!!!!
A tough "run", so well done everyone!
Finishing times for the Malvern Joggers were:- Nick Hitchings 1:19:48, Julie Caseley 1:35:29, Clare Hill 1:39:53, Annabel Jeffery 1:53:48 & Amanda Imms 2:04:11
Thanks, Julie

New Baby news
You may remember MJ Julie Mitchell whos had a very good reason for not running with us for 6 months or so...
It's Jules (Mitchell). Just to let you know that I gave birth to a healthy baby boy on Oct 19th. His name is Jake Edward and he is lovely. He does have a nasty habit of being asleep all day and awake all night - babies!! I intend to be back with the running club Jan/Feb time, which i'm very much looking forward to. Happy running.
Thanks, Julie

The Shewee
A common sight at any race is the male competitors relieving themselves in the bushes before the start. Shock! horror! Its even been suggested that the club chairman has been known to do this, such as 10 minutes before the Beacon race but what about the ladies?.... What are they supposed to do? Now help is at hand in the shape of the 'Shewee'. Before I go any further its not April the 1st and full details can be found on www.shewee.com
This came to my attention whilst watching 'Dragons Den' on television recently. According to the website 'Shewee provides women with a simple, private and hygienic method of urinating while standing up' and 'will be as much as a handbag essential as your lipstick'. Its better than trying to run cross-legged! Go for it girls!

MJs emailing list
There are currently 95 emailing addresses on our list. All the recipients are runners. If you are reading this on our website, and have run with us but are not on our emailing list and would like to be, please email me on barkercd[at]btinternet[dot]com I am thinking in particular of the 30 or more new runners who turned up to run with us last Wednesday (8/12/06) at Morrisons. Please note, I occasionally have a spring-clean of the list and remove the addresses of those who have not been seen for a long time. So if you've been away for a while it may be a good idea to run with us again. This does not apply to members.

Malvern Joggers - the futures bright, the futures emerald and lemon

Chris

Chris's Blog from 5 November 2006

Fellow athletes,

New Gentle Joggers
Our new running group for those with little or now experience begins this Wednesday 7pm Morrison's, please let anyone you know that may be interested, that this is taking place.

Local runs
Last Wednesday - 38 runners were present, including new runners Rob, Alison and Mark Witt. Mark did the Beacon Race this year in a very respectable 59.02.

Nicky (Salisbury) keep us entertained with her knee....
Latest update on the on going story of my knee!
Wednesday I had to go back to the Hospital to have the cast removed. Well its what the best dressed plaster cast wearer is sporting this winter season!! gone is the pink cast from my ankle to the top of my leg! now I have a purple cast from my ankle to knee, gap with metal supports around my kneecap, then plaster from there to the top of my leg!! well at least its keeping me warm in the cold spell! I actually got to see what they'd done, bit of a shock, as I had 20 clip stitches in my knee that I didn't know about!! anyway these taken out , but I'm still not allowed to weight bear on my leg until 6th Dec!! which might be good timing for the Xmas disco!! although don't think I'll be hitting the dance floor quite yet!! But I'm getting quite fast on my crutches!! any chance of incorporating a special joggers league table for me.... let you know what my PB is for lap of the living room!!
Hope your all injury free and clocking those miles.
Thanks, Nicky

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 8/11 Morrison's - 1st running of the new Gentle Joggers
Sun 12/11 Sodbury Slog - Chipping Sodbury
Sun 19/11 Suicide Six(ish) - Sedgeley, West Mids
Wed 6/12 Morrison's - Pub night, Nag's Head after the run
Sun 10/12 Mortimer Forest Hill 10 - Nr Ludlow
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford

Race Reports by Malvern Joggers
Dublin Marathon 30/10/06 by Richard Walsh
Hi all, am still well and alive after my debut 26.2 miles! me and my elder brother decided that this would be an idea of fun to go over to dublin and spend our holiday putting ourselves through unnecessary torture. am pleased to say that we were kept consistently hydrated at most mile markers with water, not guinness! i soon realised that my innitial aim of sub 3 hours was being highly optimistic for my debut marathon. with all the adrenaline and excitement of the event i found it difficult to restrain myself to a sensible pace and did the first 10k in 41 mins. nearer the half way mark i slowed a little but was still doing ok in around 1:29. however, by 16 miles the pain really started to hit in and i felt like i was carrying a whole load of weights on my legs and could hardly lift my feet off the ground. so with a bit of a nightmare in the last few, i achieved a finsihing time of 3:22.33. still, i guess it shouldnt be too hard a p.b. to beat on the next one! my brother who hadnt started running until this year managed a respectable 3:45, which was a very good achievement considering he also had a broken toe!
Thanks, Richard

Tewkesbury Guy Fawkes Five 5/11/06 by Chris Barker
Malvern Joggers provided some explosive running and this event really went with a bang. Well that's the Bonfire night stuff out of the way. 18 MJs took part (its 5 miles by the way, not 5K) which is 1 more runner than last year. Those who did it in 2005 won't need reminding of the sheets of rain that fell on them, before the race even started, so how good was it to have perfect running conditions. Last years field was down, due to the weather, to 158 runners but this year saw an almost doubling of numbers to 301 which is actually a lot to fit into 5 miles of country lanes especially at one point on a traffic-free part of the course, where the width of the road only accommodates 3 runners. Due to such a large field and therefore a queue to enter on the day the start was delayed for possibly 10 minutes which nobody seemed to mind.
If your used to 10Ks, half -marathons or longer it, and given that there are no hills in this one, its amazing how quickly this is over although the half mile walk to the start and back add a bit more and act as a good warm-up/warm down.
One drawback of a larger than usual field is that the race becomes more competitive and therefore more difficult to win anything, so unlike last year, we didn't. That's not to say there weren't some good performances from those MJs present. Jon Newey was 14th in 28.18, Richard Walsh was 38th in 30.25 and Andy Milton was 50th in 31.26 and I'm pleased to report a return to competitive action by Mark Cusack who was taken ill in his last race in the Tenbury 10K last August. Welcome back, Mark

Membership
This is going well and we are currently up to 62 members for the new membership year which started 1/10/06. Welcome to latest new members Mark Witt and Jon Starkey. We are yet to hear from 11 of last year's members who have neither told us whether they intend to rejoin or resign. If we do not hear from them by the end of this week, we will have to assume that they have resigned in which case they will have to rejoin at a later date if that's what they want to do. This however is more work for our secretary, Carol. If your one of the 11, please let her know what you intend to do. Her email address is timandcarol[at]talktalk[dot]net

Is it a bird, is it a plane, no its the Malvern Joggers
Chris

Chris's Blog from 29th October 2006

Fellow athletes,

New Gentle Joggers
Just to remind you, this is Jenny Field's new running group, starting on November the 8th and is for those who have little or no experience of running. Last Friday week's Malvern Gazette should have featured something on this but didn't. I'm pleased to say that last Friday's edition features us on page 85 ' Running club back to basics' and on page 23 'New club is on the run'. Please remember to tell all your friends/family who may be interested. Also starting on November the 8th, MJs Andy Blannin and Nick Hitchings are intending to do some reps/interval/fartlek training (whatever you want to call it) on Wednesday evenings. Please let them know if you would like to join them.

Also on page 23 in last Friday's Gazette , see 'Rock event' for details of a charity rock and roll evening at the Newtown Club, Newtown Road, Malvern Link on Friday 17th of November. Its to raise money for the Worcestershire Animal Rescue Centre and admission is £2.50. It features bands The Pontiacs (with a Malvern Jogger in the line-up), Rock of Ages and solo artist Stephan de Hasson.

Nicky's Knee
The latest on Nicky Salisbury from Nicky herself:-
Hope your all well , thought I'd update you on my latest knee situation!! Last Tuesday I attended a clinic at Selly oak Hospital Birmingham, thinking I would just be getting an update to when they might get me in for a little day surgery in the near future that would do the trick and then I'd soon be up those hill's again!!
Ah well the Consultant had other ideas, he took one look at my knee asked how I'd done it , then called a group of student doctors in to have a look!! He then proceeded to tell me I was a 'Freek'!! well I'm pretty used to being called names as a copper (although usually much more imaginative!) .....apparently my fall had ruptured my patella tendon in my knee 11 weeks ago! which should have resulted in my knee cap shooting up my leg! sorry if your eating, well my years of running have given me a few muscles in my leg and they held the knee cap slightly in place (there you go all those miles are worth it if you fall off the hill's) Anyhow he couldn't believe I've been walking around , didn't like to tell him I'd climbed up the hills to cheer you on in the Beacon Race!!..... I was kept in hospital and operated on the next day , luckly I was put on the Military ward and I got an official (in uniform) visit from Andy milton who had two squadies in there that had been injured in Iraq.
Well the op went well and I came out on Saturday , but I'm sporting a plaster case from my ankle to my bum! (its a lovely pink colour as I got the childrens coloured cast!) I've got this on untill the 1st Nov then a smaller cast (different colour maybe!). I'm at my mum and dads as I've got no lift to my 2nd floor appartment, but at least I'm on the mend.
I'll keep you all updated, keep clocking those miles and be careful not to slip!!
Thanks, Nicky

More Beacon Race
From Carole Green:-
Beacon race - old news now, but wanted to report how proud I was of my two sons participating - Tom was down on his time 1.11 last year - coming in 1.17 after experiencing cramp for several minutes, and lost a lot of time. Younger son Will ran 1.04 after coming home at around 4.00a.m. in the morning and getting up one hour before the race - neither boys trained - but were forced by a crazy mother. Will claims to have kept up with Gill for most of the way, but he may have made this up! Their membership was just about valid - but I will continue with the encouragment, they would be an asset to the club. Their close friend Tom Beard ran an amazing 58mins - peer presure does work! I lost it between the gold mine and beacon but was very pleased with the bits either side - aimed to do 1.30 and not too far off - made huge mistake of not training the course, but the last half was very enjoyable, allbeit holding back to prevent falling - almost caught four racers on the down hill - I'll try kamikaze style next year! Several people kindly enquirying about Dave' s injury - must be ok as he is now playing rugby (despite retirement!) so may be difficult to continue with both sports - howevery the trophy cabinet continues to expand catching several big fish over the summer. (record barble - 11lb 4oz) Boys and I say thanks for support - much appreicated
Thanks, Carole

Local runs
Last Wednesday - being a pig of a day, weatherwise, I didn't expect a record turn-out and the bad news is that out of our 75 (approx) active runners, 58 were not there, but the good news, we were joined by 2 'new' runners, Carl A. and Kevin, which means a total of 117 different people who have run with us this year. 70 existing runners and 47 new runners.
This morning - 12 MJs met at the Bluebell, Guarlford Road where the weather was considerably better than last Wednesday. As it hadn't rained for a couple of days it was generally dry off-road, except for one of the paths in the Blackmore area which had become a stream of water running towards us. Hey-ho!
Amongst those present, Peter W. who looks to be the first one in the club with a Garmin 305. Beam me up Scotty! Next Sunday I will be running in the 5 mile race at Tewkesbury (you can enter on the day), so if anyone would like a local run, please let me know where you would like to meet and I will let everyone else know.

Tuesday Running
If you fancy a run on Tuesday evenings (and your not hashing), meet at The Splash at 6.30, upstairs outside the gym.

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 1/11 Morrison's - Pub night, Nag's Head after the run
Sun 5/11 Guy Fawkes 5 - Tewkesbury
Wed 8/11 Morrison's - 1st running of the new Gentle Joggers
Sun 12/11 Sodbury Slog - Chipping Sodbury
Sun 19/11 Suicide Six(ish) - somewhere
Sun 10/12 Mortimer Forest Hill 10 - Nr Ludlow
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford

Race Reports by Malvern Joggers
Stroud Half Marathon 22/10/06 by Clare Hill
I thought I'd let you know how I got on in the Stroud Half. Steve & I just made it to the start for 10.00am after waiting for the ladies toilets for 22mins! They cleverly provided 8 toilets for 2500 runners. Steve & plonked ourselves at the back of the start and walked leisurely to the start line before activating our chip & then we were on our way. I lost Steve within the first mile, as I expected, and ran at a comfortable 9 min mile pace. The route was very well set out with clear mile markers, 2 drink stations and crowds along most of the route. I was feeling good still at 8 miles thanks to some advice from Carl. I was counting the people I was over taking & minus the people overtaking me for each mile, this keeping my mind off my groin strain which kicked in at 3 miles and giving me some indication on how my speed was doing, sounds very strange but definitely works, until my head took over at 9 miles & legs were saying give up, but another Dextrose energy tablet pulled me through. I plodded, to say the least, to 11 miles where I kind of remembered the 2 mile route back. I managed some how to run the remaining 2.2 miles in 16 mins, don't quite know how as it was a slight up hill finish. Steve met me at 13 miles & encouraged me on the last leg, literally. I managed to pass the line in 2hrs 1min & 51 secs, which is a PB but disappointed to not have been under 2hrs.
Other results for MJS were.
Stuart Day - Chip time 1.32.28
Simeon Foreman - Chip time 1.36.40
Steve Roode - Chip time 1.50.23
Julie Caseley - Chip time 1.50.33
Samantha Caseley - Chip time 2.00.04
Clare Hill - Chip time 2.01.51
All times are available on raceahead.co.uk. Well done all! Thanks to Steve for encouragement and Carl for bizarre but very effective strategies. Definitely under 2hr next time.
Thanks, Clare

Great South Run 22/10/06 by Derek Goodman
Ros lined up with the likes of Sonia O'Sullivan & Joanne Pavey on Sunday (22/10) with 18,000 other runners, in appalling conditions (I have never been so wet, apart from the run to the Old Hills during the thunder storm in the summer) and the water getting for ever deeper and a finish into a head wind. There were various bands playing around the course which ran through Portsmouth and through the harbour and docks for a distance of 10 miles. Had the weather been kinder this would have been an lovely place to race. Ros was not able to keep pace with Joanne Pavey who finished in 52 minutes but she did run extremely well despite the conditions and finished in an excellent time of 1 hour 20 minutes exactly. This gave Ros a finishing place of 2,000 which was not bad out of 18,000.
Thanks, Derek

Membership
Currently we have 51 paid-up members including 9 new ones. So far 18 have not renewed their membership (or resigned). Once again they will be able enjoy the benefits of Malvern's leading and best running club, and Malvern's only running club! We would really like love to pass last years total of 62 members so if your one of the 18 and you haven't got round to it, here's what you do, write a cheque for £12 made payable to Malvern Joggers and send it to 'Carol Pike, Secretary - Malvern Joggers, 23 Highfield Close, Malvern WR14 1SH. She will know who its from and what its for. Welcome to our latest new member, Sarah Davies, sister of Debbie T.

Malvern Joggers - stinging nettles, barbed wire, mud, and that's just Pickersleigh Road!

Chris

Chris's Blog from 22 October 2006

Fellow athletes,

New Webmaster
Bob Cartwright, who designed and has been maintaining our website until now, has had to stand down from the position due to pressure of work, as follows:-
I have to admit this is now getting to a stage where, as much as I would like to keep it up to date, I have 3 other commercial websites which are taking all my time to keep up to date. Therefore I would really like to hand the whole website over to someone else, if anyone can do it.
Thanks to Bob for all his hard work over the last 2 years in giving us a website to be proud of. Enter Peter Cowling. Whilst announcing in the Nags Head at pub night recently that we needed to find a new webmaster from somewhere. Peter expressed an interest. Thinking about it overnight and concluding that it wasn't the beer talking he said he would like to take up the challenge. He has already made some changes and updates, so if you would like to see the results of his work, it is now available at www.malvernjoggers.co.uk He would very much appreciate your thoughts, comments, opinions, ideas etc so please contact him on pcowling[at]mail[dot]com. Personally speaking, I would love to see more photos on the World Joggers page, so if you have a shot of yourself taken abroad wearing your beloved MJs shirt please send it to Peter. Digital photos are best but I expect non-digital photos could be scanned in and downloaded also.

Beacon Race
Firstly a correction. In last weeks Club News I said that MJs Jill Brierly and Julie Caseley had won prizes in the race. This should have read Jill and Alison Merley. I must have hit my head when I fell and started hallucinating! Two other notable performances:- Andy Blannin can now claim to be the third fastest runner in the club. We all known who the fastest two are. Meanwhile having beaten Steve Roode by 4 minutes in the Burnham-on-Sea half marathon 2 weeks ago I expected the same to happen again only for him to finish 2 minutes in front of me! It seems that his marathon training for New York is paying off. Well done Steve! Having got tired of waiting for Worcester AC to put the results on their website , I asked Greg Edwards at the Gazette if he had them, which he had, from Worcester AC. They look at bit preliminary especially as Julie Caseley and Stuart Brown are listed twice! 29 Malvern Joggers are listed plus 2 other MJs, Steve Ollis and Peter Hornsby, who are there but shown as unattached. There were 6 Black Pear Joggers who have run with us and 3 others who have run with us in the past. BP Joggers themselves had 9 runners, Malvern Hash 17 runners and Ledbury Harriers 2 runners.

MJs in the Gazette/New Gentle Joggers
According to Jon Newey:-
I see that they used my words for the Beacon Race report (back page). I also sent in Jenny Field's item on the new Gentle Joggers group. I can't see that in the paper anywhere. If it's not in next Friday, I'll get in touch and find out why.
The new GJs group is intended for non-experienced runners who fit into the beginners/improvers category and we probably all know one or two like that. Your club needs you two get them down to Morrison's on the 8th of November, telling them what a lovely and rewarding time they will have. The more people that turn-up for this, the more impressed and the less self-conscious those present will feel. Please do your best.

Nicky Salisbury's operation
Andy Milton has been in touch to tell me of Nicky's operation on her ruptured patella tendon which took place last Wednesday in Selly Oak hospital. She expects that she will be there until next Wednesday, probably, and can be found in Ward S4. I'm sure she would appreciate a call or text to her mobile wishing her a speedy recovery. The number is 07717-783893. Get well soon Nicky!

Jon Newey's Hash
I have received this from Jon:-
Follow the link below to see what the hash that I laid recently lead to:
http://www.thisisbromsgrove.co.uk/display.var.974405.0.hash_sparks_a_village_mystery.php

Bournville Yacht Handicap
I have received this from the Bourville harriers for you all. I am intending to take part myself but I will need a partner. Read on...
Alison Smith, Publicity Officer, Bournville Harriers, publicity@bournvilleharriers.org 22nd October 2006.
Dear Chris,
My name is Alison and I am the publicity officer at Bournville Harriers. I’m writing to inform you and your club members about our annual Yacht Handicap on Sunday 17th December 2006, 11.15am at Rowheath Pavilion, Heath Road, Bournville, Birmingham. B30 1HH.

Here is how it works; Pick a team of two; mixed sex/mixed ability is fine!
Predict the time you think your team can complete the course. (3.6miles per leg)
All runners start at 11.15am. The winning team is the team finishing closest to their predicted time.
This is the chance for anyone, whatever their ability to win a race. There will be prizes for the first 6 teams and the winners will be presented with a shield. (They can only keep it for a year I’m afraid!) Like last year we are hoping to have the results and photos, on our website on the same day. I know Julie and Sam are planning to come and defend their title, plus it would be great to see other members of Malvern Joggers taking part. I’ve enclosed a race entry form as an attachment, I can also send hard copies of the form if you email me a contact address. Further details of the race can be viewed on our website; www.bournvilleharriers.org
Best Wishes, Alison

MJ in the Gazette - 2
See the report on the back page of last Fridays edition which features 2 photos, one showing several MJs ready to race into the lead as soon as the race is started and the other photo showing left to right, MJs Roger Moore, Stuart brown and Paul Newman as they battle it out on the climb from the Gold Mine to the Beacon.

Local runs
Last Wednesday - 32 runners were present at Morrisons including 'new' runner Rob from Leigh Sinton. This morning - 7 runners gathered at St James School, West Malvern for a run around Cradley and Mathon. Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 25/10 Morrison's
Wed 1/11 Morrison's - Pub night, Nag's Head after the run
Sun 5/11 Guy Fawkes 5 - Tewkesbury
Sun 12/11 Sodbury Slog - Chipping Sodbury
Sun 19/11 Suicide Six(ish) - somewhere
Sun 10/12 Mortimer Forest Hill 10 - Nr Ludlow
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham
Wed 20/12 MJs Christmas Bash (Buffet & Live Band) - CSSC(RSRE) Club
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford

Race Reports by Malvern Joggers
Cardiff Marathon - 15/10/06 by Emma Gooderham
Hope all went well in the Beacon race on Saturday and you all enjoyed the post race curry. Am looking forward to the write up of this event. I've just got back from Cardiff and completed the marathon in 3hours, 6 minutes and 23ish seconds. I had a great running partner who ran with me all the way round and it was his first marathon! The weather was perfect although a little blustery out in the docks. It's a great flat course with a finish in the milenium stadium for all half and full marathon runners. Overall I came forth lady (1st FV35). The time qualifies me for an upgrade from GFA to elite in London, so am really pleased. Probably won't be able to walk tomorrow though!
Thanks, Emma

Stroud Half Marathon - 22/10/06 by Julie Caseley
This turned out to be a lovely run with little wind and no rain until after we'd finished. Six MJ's ran - me, Samantha, Clare Hill, Steve Roode, Simeon Foreman and Stuart Day. Samantha did really well on her debut half marathon and finished on target in a time of 2 hrs. 13 secs. I would have liked to have finished closer to last years time of 1 hr 48 mins but was happy with 1 hr 50 mins.
Julie says she would have written more but her cooker blew-up spectacularly and she hade to go to her mother-in-laws for tea!!!
I've heard some excuses in my time1 Sorry, I meant to say thanks Julie very much for your report. Coventry Half Marathon - 22/10/06 by Andy Milton Had to leave Malvern at 7.00 as i had entered the kids in for the family fun run (2.2 miles) which started at 9.00. Despite the early lethargy they had an enjoyable run which was also a good warm up for myself. The half marathon started at 10.30 and once again it was very well organised.I started at the 1.30 -1.45 marker and managed to get running almost straight away. My early concern was trying to beat Scooby doo as he was certainly going at a pace.The course was different to last year and slighly more hilly but did take us through some scenic areas which i did not know existed.There were four water stops which were well placed and included isotonic drinks.The weather conditions were perfect and along with the good support from the locals this certainly rates as one of the better city runs i have done.I managed to cross the line in 1.28 to be rewarded with decent quality T shirt , medal and goody bag. Although it costs £15 (affiliated) to enter it is value for your money. As the skies opened up on my way home i reassured myself that the early start had been worth it and i think the family agree too !

Membership
46 of our runners have joined or rejoined for the new membership year. That still leaves 22 existing members who have not rejoined, neither have they resigned, so I assume they intend to rejoin. If that's the case its as easy as this:- write a cheque for £12 made payable to Malvern Joggers and send it to 'Carol Pike, Secretary - Malvern Joggers, 23 Highfield Close, Malvern WR14 1SH. She will know who its from and what its for. Why not do it now.

Malvern Joggers - Be safe, be seen
Chris

Chris's Blog from 15th October 2006

New Beginners/Improvers running Group
If you were at this years AGM you will know that MJ Jenny Field kindly offered to organise and lead a beginners/improvers/novices group. Until now we haven't really catered for non-experienced runners and we would like this to a running club for ALL. I have in the past had people like this contact me but I've had to be honest with them and say that although we have slower runners, they are all regular runners and it maybe a struggle for them. That's better for everyone than saying come along only for them to be disillusioned and never be seen again. Also given the range of abilities of our slowest group, it offers another option. Jenny writes:- I am going to run/walk a couple of routes this weekend and plan to have the first session 2nd week in November. I'm away the first week. By then I should have about four different routes each a little longer then the previous. I am going to do a warm up and a stretch session at the end. I also hope to have an idea how many people are interested. I am going to do a notice to put up in local Gyms, GP surgeries and any where else that anyone can think of. All enquires phone me 01684578652 and I will explain plan and advise on clothing etc. So if you know anyone who likes the idea of running but hasn't really done much so far, or someone who has only run on a treadmill but is ready to run outdoors for example, point them in our direction for a probable start on 8th of November. Jenny will be leading but there will be at least 1 of our experience runners at the back to keep whoever is there, company.
Thanks, Jenny

MJs Christmas Bash
Peter Cowling of our Social Committee:- This year we will be having our Christmas party at the RSRE Club on Wednesday 20th December. Everyone is invited - members and non members, partners and lovers, family and friends, anybody who has run with us, thought about running with us, heard of us or just wants to have a fun evening. This year we have plenty of space and hopefully a live band. Cost will be £10-00 each including bar and buffet.
Thank you, Peter

Mysteriously missing MJ
Peter Tooke - Just to let you know I will be out of action for several weeks yet until I've got a knee problem sorted out and then I'll have to build up slowly again. I'll see you all at Morisson's once I can run 5 miles again - or possibly sooner at the Nag's Head on the first Wednesday in November.
Thanks, Peter

Membership
44 of our runners have now joined or rejoined for the new membership year which started on the 1st of this month. A warm welcome to our latest new member, Kareen Mann. If you would like to join or are going to renew your membership the form is attached.

Runners World
This theme of this months edition is 'The Club Issue'. The editorial policy of this mag is to be a general health and fitness magazine with the emphasis on running which means that they tend to recycle the same stuff every month and the only original thing is their race diary and race reports. The like to pretend that running clubs don't exist but at the same time have to admit that they do, as if running clubs are an elitist and minority entity. The, then, Worcester Joggers asked them to feature the story of their affiliation struggle but they were not interested. I am pleased then, that the current edition does feature 'running 'clubs' After all, there are 1450 of them in the UK and the best bit is Andy Blackford's piece on page 118 appropriately enough. Some of the more obscure clubs are mentioned such as the 'Coffin Dodgers RC' which you have to be above a certain age to join, so I could a 2nd claim member, in that case. It lists the benefits of club membership such as 'The cost of annual club membership can be anything from £12 to £100' to membership of the MJs at £12 can't be a bad deal !!!!

MJ in the Gazette
See page 2 of last Friday's edition which features our own Steve Roode complete with picture preparing for his fund-raising run in the New York Marathon where he takes on Lance Armstrong (that's not the guy who walked on the moon!) The event takes place on November 5th and Steve is raising money for 'Get Kids Going' He needs another £1500 to hit his target so if you would like to sponsor him you can do so on-line at www.justgiving.com/steveroode

The Beacon Race
Well done to all our runners that took part in this and to our numerous other runners came along to give us their support. It was very much appreciated. Going through the names of those who have run with this year, I can account for 30 MJs and 5 others who have also run with us this year either not very often (like, once or twice) or are members of another running club, although, of course, everyone is welcome to run with us. I won't describe to course to you as everyone knows it by now, just don't go headlong down the hill from St Anns Well like I did. This is not the way to improve your race position. We picked up 2 prizes as both Julie Caseley and Jill Brierly won the prize for their age categories. Jill was also the 2nd lady home and we all expected her to receive the prize for that but it was 1 person 1 prize and strangely Worcester AC felt that the age prize took priority, despite presenting it after the 1st, 2nd and 3rd lady. I never do a race for the memento at the end of it but I must comment on yesterdays gift? The organisers of the Beacon Race can usually be relied upon to present you with something worthwhile at the end of it and after 7 miles of toil and pain you think you've earned something! In my house I have a 2 drinks coasters with a picture of the Beacon on them, a mug with 'ode to the Beacon Race on it and best of all a framed, limited edition sketch of the outside of the Rose Bank Gardens from the 50th anniversary event in 2003. All this from previous Beacon Races. This year memento was, basically crap!

Après Beacon Race Meal
Peter Cowling reports:- There were eleven of us at Spice Cottage last night. We had a great meal and they really looked after us. We even got free drinks afterwards. I don't remember how many were at the Nag's Head after that but we spilled a lot of beer in the process of anaesthetising our aching muscles and had a really good party. Unfortunately I didn't make the Sunday morning run.
Thanks again, Peter

This Morning
9 MJs (including 3 Beacon Race survivors) set off from Castlemorton Common for a run of just over 7 miles through the Bromsberrow Estate and Hollybush. Those present, Eric, myself, Steve Roode, Ros & Derek, Maria J, John Phillips, Peter Hornsby & Amanda G. A small dog of the Jack Russell type appeared at one point which brought back memories to one of our party. However this one was a bit more friendly.

Last Wednesdays Run (27/9/06)
32 runners were present at Morison's and I hear there were 5 having one last go at the Beacon course earlier.

Attached The Guy Fawkes 5 entry form - Tewkesbury 5/11/06. Easy 5 mile road race and the Membership Form.

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. Meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 18/10 Morrison's
Sun 22/10 Stroud Half Marathon
Wed 25/10 Morrison's
Wed 1/11 Morrison's - Pub night, Nag's Head after the run
Sun 5/11 Guy Fawkes 5 - Tewkesbury
Sun 12/11 Sodbury Slog - Chipping Sodbury
Sun 19/11 Suicide Six(ish) - somewhere
Sun 10/12 Mortimer Forest Hill 10 - Nr Ludlow
Sun 17/12 Yacht Handicap - Birmingham
Mon 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford

MJs in Business (free advertising!)
If you would like a job done, why not ask one of your friendly MJs to do it for you. Quality work at affordable prices:-
JPN Electrical - Jon Newey - Phone 01684-562050 & 07773-424410
GK Gardening Services (& DIY) - Gary Kimber - Phone 01886-833426
Aldine Print - Paul Bullman - Phone 01684-562786
If you would like a mention here or you love your employer enough to give them a mention, please send me the details.

Race Reports
Julie Caseley goes Racing. Race number 39 this year, I think! - I ran the Bells of Pattingham 7 mile race near Wolverhampton this morning in a time of just over 62 mins, just under a minute slower than last year. This completely off road course takes in some of South Staffordshire's lovely countryside, if you're not too knackered to take it all in. Like most cross country runs, it was quite undulating and muddy in places towards the end, with the inevitable uphill finish that seems so popular!! The marshals were friendly and encouraging and the awards ceremony was quick and efficient. There is a piece of harvest cake, a cup of tea and a horse brass to all finishers. The number of runners seems to go up every year - nearly 900 this year - so an extremely popular run.
Thank you, Julie

Malvern Joggers - the most fun you can have with your trainers on! Chris

Chris's Blog from 8th October 2006

Après Beacon Race Meal - 14/10/06
A message from Peter Cowling of our Social Committee:- Following on from last years success, Spice Cottage has been booked again for an Après Beacon Race celebration meal at 5:30pm on the Saturday of the race. Everyone is welcome to come, it doesn't matter whether you actually ran the race or not, nor whether you are a paid up member of the club. If you would like to come and join us, please let Peter know beforehand so he can let the restaurant know how many people to expect. Either e-mail him at pcowling[at]mail[dot]com or clobber him on Wednesday evening, after the run. He will be running from Morrison's but make sure he has a pencil and paper handy because otherwise he will forget!

MJ is 1st Lady at North Worcs MT8
Unknown to our two competitors Peter Wilson and Jerry Greer, there was a third MJ taking part in this race. Emma Gooderham has recently joined us prior to her first run with other club members. She finished 21st in a rather muddy North Worcs MT8 winning the prize for 1st lady. Peter finished in 45th place with Jerry 69th!!!! Here are a few words from Emma ' Just a note to say I ran the MT8 on Sunday and as it was the 1st Oct I ran under Malvern Joggers (hope this is OK). I came in first lady for the club, although it was very wet and muddy and I had left my trail shoes at work! I am running Cardiff Marathon in two weeks and have a GFA place at London next year. Hope to see some Malvern Joggers soon!
and a bit more from Emma:-
Unfortunately I will not be able to do the Beacon race, although would love to as I have done this one before and thoroughly enjoyed it (OK - once I got to the top it was more fun). I am running in the Cardiff Marathon on Sunday, so the beacon race as well would be a little silly! I am hopefullly going to beat my time of 3hrs 21 last year. My ultimate is to get under 3hrs 15 and then go off with the elites at London, but I think that is just something I dream of at the moment! Will come and join you guys for a run when I'm back from Cardiff and recovered enough (last year I had trouble walking for a few days after!) so may be up to two weeks after Cardiff before I'm fully back on the running scene. Look forward to meeting you all.
Thanks, Emma

Membership
Just into the start of the new membership year we currently have 37 members. Thanks to all those who rejoined and thanks to new members Steve Roode, Chas Eden, Emma Gooderham, Maria Jones, Amanda Greenwood, Steve Ollis, Judy Newman and Rachel Samuel for joining. There are a lot of members from 2005/2006 who have not rejoined yet. The membership form is attached. I told my fellow committee members that we would comfortably pass the previous total of 62 members so I'll look daft if we don't! If you don't intend to rejoin, please let somebody know. We have to pay the MCAA £3 for each member and we don't want to pay this for anyone who is not rejoining.

Kit
Our Kit Organiser Eric has asked me to ask you to contact him by email with details of what you require with regard to kit. See below for the information that was emailed on the subject on 27/9:- We are now in a position to place a new order for club kit Unfortunately due to a misunderstanding on my part,several people expressed interest in Long Sleeved T’s, after I’d closed the previous order-so now’s your chance to get one ! Prices are unchanged and I think good value at-
Vests £12
T’s £15
LST’s £16
This time the club has enough funds in the bank not to ask for cash upfront,but I would still appreciate an indication of what people want so that I have a better chance of getting the mix right. Remember that Vest sizes are exactly as stated but T’s come up approx 2” larger.Our previous size range was 32”-42” in 2” increments.
Eric elbromage[at]ukonline[dot]co[dot]uk

Black Pear Joggers
This is the new name of the Worcester Joggers who due to the petty-mindedness and lack of kindred spirit by Worcester AC were forced to change their name to enable them to affiliate to the national body. The club was officially relaunched as Black Pear Joggers last Monday and from now on will be seen sporting their new kit which will be black vests with two white and one orange horizontal strips. Their kit suppliers are, same as ours, WASP (which as we all know stands for 'wicked & sexy people') They are near-neighbours of ours and some of us run with both clubs. Look out for them in future races.

Brathay Windermere Marathon 2007 (20/5/07)
Just doing my duty and informing you of this event as the organisers have asked my to do. They have sent me a very impressive colour poster for us to stick up in our clubhouse (that'll be Morrison's then). One previous finisher is quoted as saying 'I ran the final WM from Bowness in 1986 and have longed for the event to return ever since. It is still my all time favourite race despite having now competed in over 900 races' I think he like it!
Details on www.brathay.org.uk

Next Saturday
Its the Beacon Race' 3pm, Rose Bank Gardens. If you are taking part, best of luck and I hope it goes even better than you expected. If your not running why not spectate and cheer on your fellow MJs (including Mr Chairman). There are bound to be a lot of them as last year there was 24. You will be able to watch them putting their new found hill-running skills into practise. St Annes Well is a good vantage point as the competitors go past three times.

This Morning
I expected a better than average Sunday morning turn-out but I didn't expect 26! This is nearly twice the previous record for a Sunday morning helped, of course by the last real opportunity to run the Beacon race route without the disadvantage of semi-darkness. About a third of those present tackled this whilst the rest opted for something less hilly through Upper Welland, the Nature reserve and Malvern Wells golf course.

Last Wednesdays Run (27/9/06)
18 people turned-up at Morrisons, where they have a good range of energy drinks but alas no trainers. We split into 2 groups, the quicker group covered a respectable 6.7 miles but were upstaged by those determined GJs who got back a bit late having done over 7 miles. We were joined by new runner Chris from Worcester. Not that new actually as he has been running for 25 years!
13 MJs met earlier in Rose Bank Gardens for another bash at the Beacon race route. Approx 14 people were in the Nag's Head afterwards for a drink or two.

The Tewkesbury Guy Fawkes 5
This one takes place appropriately on the 5th of November and its just a short hop down the M5. Its a flat 5 mile road race and is a popular one with the MJs. £5 to enter for MJ club members, £7 if your not a member. You can enter on-the-day if you prefer. The entry form is attached.

Coming up:-
Every Wednesday, 7pm. meet at Morrison's, Townsend Way, Malvern
Every Sunday, a local run or race
Wed 11/10 Morrison's, Townsend Way
Sat 14/10 Beacon Race
Sun 22/10 Stroud Half Marathon
Sun 5/11 Guy Fawkes 5, Tewkesbury

Race Reports
and what would Club News be without Julie's race reports:-
Cotswold Challenge - 30/9/06
Chas Eden and I completed the Cotswold Marathon Challenge (26.89 miles) today in 6 hrs 09 mins - a bit slower than last years' 5 hrs 45 mins but what the heck. We were going very well for the first half and were on target for 5 hrs. but we knew the second half was a lot harder and there was always the chance we got lost in the woods towards the end, which we did, along with quite a few other frustrated runners who were also trying desperately to follow the non-existent white spots and acorns!! We stumbled, slid and staggered our way along the 26+ miles. The checkpoints were manned by enthusiastic LDWA members who provided us with lovely home bakes and drinks. The weather was ideal for running and the couple of short, sharp showers were quite welcome. Many thanks to Chas for being a fantastic running partner and navigator - I couldn't have done it without him.

The Badger Bite - 8/10/06
This morning I ran this delightful little race at Badger, Burnhill Green, Shropshire - completely off road on woodland tracks and paths, as well as a turnip field which was a bit hazardous! It was quite undulating but not too bad with a downhill start and inevitable uphill finish. Although it was advertised as 4+ miles, it was only 3.75 which was great for a Sunday morning race. I came 96th out of nearly 300 (I think) in a time of 32 mins 30 secs - my new 'go faster' trail shoes I bought yesterday seemed to do the trick! Great presentation venue at The Seven Stars pub in Beckbury afterwards complete with pork and beef bagettes - very civilised!!.
Thankyou. Julie