Malvern Joggers

Old Club News

Here are some of Chris's older blogs going back to around Jan 06

Chris's Blog from 26 June 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Cross-Country News
From Jon Green - Herefordshire Summer Off-Road League 2011 - Update There was a fantastic turnout of 16 MJs for the first race of the Summer League at Aconbury last Wednesday. A big thank you to all who ran. Conditions were pretty good, if a little muddier than might have been expected. The MJ team spirit was high and this showed in some gritty performances. Our first runner to finish was Richard Love on his debut race in an excellent 13th place and our first lady home was the irrepressible Megan Judge, finishing as 3rd lady in 36th place. In addition to Richard we had 3 more of our men finish in the top 20. That shows good strength in depth. It's early days, but out of 25 teams that finished, our placings are: A team 4th, B team 8th, C team 14th and D team 22nd. The next race is at Kinnersley on Wednesday 6 July at 7.30pm. This is a delightful 'undulating' course through Bulmer's cider orchards. Details will be going out to all registered runners. If you haven't yet registered but are interested in running at Kinnersley or Westhope (20 July) or Shobdon (3 August) let me know. Thanks - Jonathan (green.jonathan@virgin.net or 079 7416 8577).
Herefordshire Summer Off-Road League 2011 - Aconbury Wed 22nd June, by Richard Love
This was the first in the series of this team based league, and the Joggers did good. Fielding an impressively large field of 16 runners our green tops made a significant visual impact and gave us 4 teams overall (bettered only by the host club Wye Valley in their bland cornflower blue tops). The course was 5.5 miles, all off road, mostly forrest paths and all on hills, nothing very steep but you were always going up or down; no flat relief. First over the line for the joggers was yours truly in my favourite 13th place (do other runners go out of their way to avoid finishing 13th). Very close behind was John Green and Nick Hitchings 15 and 18 respectively, Megz came in 36 (3rd Lady) to make up our 'A' team. Overall the A team were 4th, but it is very close and if during the season some of our top runners can make it we'll easily whip the arses of Hereford and Wye Valley, however the series leaders are in a bit of class of their own, so well done Croft Ambery. Full results for our runners are below. Our team placings were 4, 8, 14 and 22 (out of 25). These events are for running club members only and the quality of the field is higher than typical local events so our overall good results is especially pleasing. But the best thing for the joggers was how we crossed the line, most of us crossed with a smile and able to manage a spirited sprint to gain valuable extra places - which for me is what it's all about running happy with guts - well done to everyone we all seemed pleased with our performances measured against whatever criteria is important to each of us (although I suspect John is a little peeved to be second jogger - next one a grudge match?).
Place Runner Time
13 Richard Love 36.22
15 Jonathan Green 36.39
18 Nick Hitchings 36.51
20 Robert Kennedy 37.11
22 Nigel Sewell 37.23
36 Megz Judge ** 39.21
40 Steve Roode 39.39
49 Jerry Greer 40.33
52 Ian Dyson 40.46
68 Wendy Holmes ** 43.16
71 Laurence Wilson 43.25
73 Stuart Brown 43.34
81 Kareen Mann ** 44.11
88 Claire Gilbert ** 44.55
96 Sophie Blandford ** 46.06
101 Julie Caseley ** 47.59

The Summer Solstice Bacon Buttie Run – 21/6/11
From Paul Newman - Unbelievably this Tuesday morning 31 Malvern Joggers got up at silly O'clock to meet at Hollybush for a 6 mile run ! The run was organised by Kes AKA "Elsie" from Mudrunner, he had arranged for his family to meet us all on the top of The British Camp where bacon butties tea and coffee would be served !We set off in the dark with head torches straight up Midsummer hill, we then joined the Worcestershire way to British Camp it was getting lighter all the time, when we reached the top we were greeted by a beeming Pete Cowling also Richard and Holly Love. The food and drink was in full flow by now and we waited with baited breath for the Sun to appear alas it was initially hidden by cloud. We spotted two other familiar faces waving from below and we were soon joined by Shirley and "The Beach Master" . As we headed back we were treated to a glorious sight not only did the Sun appear but the moon was out and a rainbow lit up the sky. It was good to see so many Malvern Joggers at such a crazy time of the day, we all agreed it was a day we'd never forget and that we'd like to make it a annual event. Many thanks to all that attended and especially to Kester for laying it all on for us !

Also from Paul .....
As we are all very greatful to Kester I've said I'd get Chris to plug a series of talks he is putting on ..
An opportunity to meet Caballo Blanco (Micah True) , one of the central characters of the book "Born to Run" Micah will be giving talks around England during September 2011 - don't miss your chance to see him
Micah True lives in the Batopilas Canyon of the Sierra Madre in Mexico. Over the last decade he has been instrumental in encouraging the local trive Raramuri/Tarahumara to keep running which has always been a part of their traditional way of life.
(The Tarahumara are an indigineous tribe of mexicans who live in the canyons of the sierra madre, they have a legendary reputation for distance running great distances - 100 miles or more through the rugged canyons in homemade sandals)
Every year he organises the 50 mile Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon which sees the local runners compete against some of the worlds best ultra runners. The race is unique in many ways, not least that all competitors meeting the 13 hour cutoff win half a tonne of corn, helping competitors to feed their familiies at giving them a valid reason to jeep running. There is no entry fee for the race and few sponsors, it is run entirely on the local principle of "Korima" with anonymous voluntary donations.
Micah was thrown into the spotlight in 2009 when a book "Born to Run" featured his race and placed him as one of the central characters. The book spent several months in the NY Times best seller list throwing Micah into the public conciousness.
Micah works tirelessley to raise funds for the race and is an engaging and humble man.
________________________________________
The Presentation
Micah's talk will cover:
- what first brought him into ultrarunning
- his views on running styles, barefoot running and minimalist footwear
- meeting the Tarahumara in '94 at Leadville 100 mile race where they set the course record beating all the american runners.
- How he ended up in Copper Canyon living among the Tarahumara
- The Events leading up to the 2006 Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon (CCUM) featured in the book "Born to Run"
- What's happened with the CCUM since then
- The work he is doing with Norawas de Raramuri (the not for profit organisation he has established to support them)
His talk will be just over one hour with as much Q&A as required. He also has a short film of the 2009 CCUM that he will show as he gives his presentation. “
Kes is looking to put on a talk in Birmingham as well as Bristol you can get tickets from http://caballoblanco.weebly.com/buy-tickets.html
The Malvern Joggers 10k checkout this video footage of the race plus interviews with some of the runners including our new ladies Champion Mini Megz !
http://www.trackfieldandroad.tv/?v=smD7MPtBDvVgAnjNmmie5Q%3D%3D

Race Reports
Bredon Bash 23/6/11 by Chris Barker
I nearly won a race! Well, I came second actually but I did have a 20 minute start. This was a 6 mile event organised by Evesham Running Club which was based at Elmley Castle and involved running up, down and along Bredon Hill.
There were two starts. If you thought you were going to take over an hour then you started at 7.10pm. Less than an hour, start at 7.30. I looked at my time for last year’s Beacon race which told me to go on the early one, as did about a third of the field.
I know how much goes into organising a race so I don’t like being critical but there was an absence of marshals in some places and the signage wasn’t very good either. Fortunately I found myself running with people from the host club who knew the course otherwise I would have gone the wrong way inside the first half mile missing a right turn off a country lane into a field.
In a race of about 30 runners, I set off at the back of my group and without too much effort found myself near the front. Then second place, then I moved into the lead. Bear in mind that the bulk of the runners hadn’t started at this point. It’s a strange feeling leading a race and something I have never previously experienced. It’s very quiet at the head of the race with no banter, people gasping for breath or the sound of numerous trainers hitting the ground. I carried on thinking I was going to be swallowed up by the main body of runners. Then lost the lead as I had to wait for the guy behind so we could have a meeting about which direction to go in. This happened a few more times before we hit the tarmac about ½ mile from the finish. I then shot passed our friend from ERC to retake the lead only to be passed by some other guy who should definitely have been on the later start So, second place and a bottle of wine. You could say I should have gone in the later group but the course was short and I believe I would have taken an hour if it had been measured properly. The event was based at the local cricket club where there a junior cricket match was taking place and included sandwiches after for the runners. Other MJs taking part were Nick Hitchings, Stuart Brown and Jerry Greer plus support from Alison Hughes. I’ll do it again next year although I think I will now have to promote myself to the later starters.
Boddington 10K, 26/6/11 by Chris Barker
There were actually two events taking place this morning at Boddington Manor near Cheltenham, the other being the 50K which featured our own Emma Gooderham. As far as I know, there are not many 31 mile races on the calendar so this one attracted a large field from all over the country. I’d struggle to run 25K these days so I did the shorter one.
I found the 10K to be the poor relation of the two events when once again non-existant marshalling and a very large arrow pointing left instead of straight on ensured another directional cock-up. I ran, with others, twice around a lake when maybe I should have run straight passed it. I’ll never know. There again, the extra I ran helped to make up the best part of 6.21 miles as the race would have been well short without it. At least it was flat. I recorded a time of 53.00. A crappy medal at the finish summed it up quite well.
Bromyard Gala Round the Downs Race 26/6/11 by Julie Caseley
A group of dedicated locals, led by Mayor Nigel Davis, has resurrected the Bromyard Round the Downs Race which
first took place in 1935 and was run for the first time in 20 years last year. The 4.2 mile race was started this year by Bromyard’s Town Crier, Peder Nielsen, outside the Post Office and went downhill to the main A44, then left for about 1.5 miles before turning left again at Brockhampton School, then continuing uphill to the top of Bromyard Downs which was approximately half way. Then it was downhill and left just after the Royal Oak, still going downhill along the Stourport Road entering Bromyard by Broadbridge with an uphill finish outside the Post Office. A very enjoyable shortish race but with the heat and relentless hills, was quite challenging. Five Malvern Joggers took part all of whom were placed and received prizes of a certificate and 2 free entries to the Bromyard Gala next weekend. They were:- Megan Judge – 1st Open Female, Alison Hughes – 2nd Open Female, Julie Caseley – 1st Female Vet
Andrew Scott – 1st Male Vet, Steve Roode – 3rd Male Vet
Thanks, Julie

HELP NEEDED PLEASE. On Saturday 2nd July Malvern Joggers have been asked to have a stand at an ‘Open Forum Event at Malvern Theatre’ for four hours between 10am and 2 pm. Some of the other organisations being represented include; AONB, National Trust, Malvern Spa and Butterfly Conservation. Our aim is to promote ‘Malvern Joggers’. We need someone who can put up and take down a small display, a small team of MJ’s who take turns to talk to the public about our club, particularly Gentle Joggers and how they started running, some good blown up photos of MJ’s in action. If you can help with any of these aspects please contact stuart as soon as possible
e-mail stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk

Club run on Wednesday (29th June)
A message from Geoff Field - This will be from the Drum & Monkey on the Gloucester Road just outside Upton-upon-Severn. This is a new venue for us and offers some different running routes (some of them flat!).
Several of you have spotted that the pub is currently closed for refurbishment.
Do not worry!
The landlord is expecting us and is happy for us to use the carpark. Also, he will be opening one of the function rooms at the back of the pub, especially for Malvern Joggers.
Please make a special effort to stay on for a drink after the run, as a gesture of our appreciation for the support he is giving us."

A Champions League Reminder
The next two races are the Evesham Vale 10k on 10th July and the Pitchcroft 10k on 17th July.

All Terrain/Running pushchair Required
I was wondering if anyone had an All Terrain/Running pushchair that I could borrow/buy for a week in July whilst walking in Norway!! Much appreciated, Sophie Blandford ..... sophieb@naturalpower.com

MJs Annual BBQ
The Jogger's BBQ will be at the Chase Inn again on the 1st Wednesday in July (6th) after the run. More details to follow.

The Thunder 24 hour relay event is next month !! we have two 8 man teams currently entered, but there is still room for another ! Paul Newman says ....
What is TR24? Adidas Thunder Run is a 24 hour off-road relay race against the clock. Whether you run solo or in a team of 2-8 it'll test your tactics, endurance, speed and team work. It's an exhilarating, rewarding and tiring race with a great atmosphere. You'll find TR24 physically challenging and mentally tough but an experience not to be missed.
What to expect: You can set up camp either the The TR24 course is a 10km cross-country circuit set in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside. The track twists and turns across varied terrain so you'll find yourself running from bogs and forests to steep hills and open fields. Whether you're running through the night with a head torch or whilst the sun rises, there's always a change of scenery to keep you on your toes.
Facilities: The team from Science in Sport will be on site all weekend and our sports masseurs will be on hand for everyone (no fixed charges but a small donation would be appreciated).
For spectators and hungry runners our event caterer will be positioned trackside serving throughout the event
• 24 hour hot food & catering
• fully marshalled & signed course
• on-course water stations
• hot showers
• changing facilities
• free camping all weekend for
runners and spectators night before or the morning of the race to start soaking up the atmosphere. Once you're geared up, your first runner will assemble at the start line at 12pm and when the claxon goes, together you won't finish for 24 hours.
The rules: One team member must be on the course at all times during the 24hrs. Runners must complete one full 10km lap before changing over with a team mate but may run 2, 3 or more laps at a time before changeover. The team with the most laps completed when the clock stops after 24hrs will be the winner !
We need to start planning to make sure everyone has access to camping facillities, food and drink We also need the right kit, a few changes of running gear and head torches (Joggers on tour T shirts ??)! let the discussions begin ..
Cheers Paul ....... paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk

Summer Running – Monthly Rota
1st Wednesday - The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall
2nd Wednesday - Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381) except 15/6/11- MJs Race
4th Wednesday - The 3 Kings at Hanley Castle
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only) Meet at 7pm as usual
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn. Please speak to Jayne Ackroyd if you can help.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 29/6 Club Run – Drum & Monkey
Sat 2/7 Open Forum Event (featuring the MJs) at Malvern Theatres – Volunteers needed
Wed 6/7 BBQ at The Chase Inn, after the run
Wed 6/7 Cross-Country League - Kinnersley
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Wed 20/7 Cross-Country League - Westhope
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Wed 3/8 Cross-Country League - Shobdon
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 1/10 May Hill Challenge
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Weekly Reminders
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 3 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email.
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know.
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website

Happy running, Chris

Chris's Blog from 19 June 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

MJ 10k Update from Race Secretary Jerry Greer
On Wednesday we had our third Malvern Joggers 10k, and I think I can safely say it was a huge success! This was our biggest race to date. At the final count we had 297 entrants (only 3 short of our limit) of whom 272 actually ran the race. The feedback that has been received from other clubs and individual runners who took part in the race is almost embarrassingly good. As a club, we can be very proud of what we have done because this has involved a massive team effort. Our aim has always been to put on an enjoyable, great value event for runners by runners – and we appear to have succeeded!
As I said, making money from the race is not our aim, but we took over £ 2,800 in race fees and food sales. The final account is some way off, but early indications are that we have a surplus over costs of around £700-800 from which I presume we will make our usual charity donation.
Our early plans for the race were thrown into chaos by the sudden closure of the Pheasant. However, undaunted we decided to cater for ourselves. We arranged a bar from The Marlbank and called upon Richard Love’s catering expertise to provide post race food . What was produced was streets ahead of anything the Pheasant ever did. So, a cheeky request, if you guys can stand it are you willing to give it another go next year ?
So many members of the club have been involved that it almost seems wrong to single people out. However special thanks must go the Marshalls and Jane Ackroyd carrying out the overseeing role. Every piece of feedback I received commented on how friendly, welcoming and encouraging our Marshalls were. Thanks also to Jenny Field and her group for helping Richard with the catering, Graham Cramp and his crew for the time keeping and Andy Blanin & others for the car parking. And a special thank you from me to Sheleagh Jackson for rescuing the registration desk from meltdown on the night .
To these and those I haven’t mentioned, thanks once again for giving so generously of your time and expertise. Next year’s race will be on 13th June 2012 – see you there ?
Thanks, Jerry

Three Messages from Stuart B ....
Thanks again to everyone who helped make Wednesday night’s race such a great success, it was a real team effort. We have received some fantastic comments about the race.

Congratulations to Megan Judge on her recent successes. Not only was she the first lady in our race but also the first finisher in the Worcester Race for Life.

This Thursday 23rd June, Evesham Vale has invited Malvern Joggers to their 6 mile Bredon Bash. The main start will be at 7.30pm with a 7.10pm start for those who expect to take longer than an hour. The race fee is £5 EACH with all entries being taken on the day and registration from 6pm at Elmley Castle Cricket Club, The Pavilion, Elmley Castle Playing Field, Elmley Castle, WR10 3HY. ALL RUNNERS MUST BE OVER 18. PRIZES FOR 1ST LADY AND MALE, ALONG WITH AGE GROUP AND TEAM PRIZES. There may be a few others too, but these will be a surprise!! SANDWICHES TO ALL, IN THE CLUB HOUSE AFTER THE RACE. Any further information, please contact Jess and Chris Taylor, taylor.jessica75@yahoo.co.uk or 01386 443200 or 07817 976528.

HELP NEEDED PLEASE. On Saturday 2nd July Malvern Joggers have been asked to have a stand at an ‘Open Forum Event at Malvern Theatre’ for four hours between 10am and 2 pm. Some of the other organisations being represented include; AONB, National Trust, Malvern Spa and Butterfly Conservation. Our aim is to promote ‘Malvern Joggers’. We need someone who can put up and take down a small display, a small team of MJ’s who take turns to talk to the public about our club, particularly Gentle Joggers and how they started running, some good blown up photos of MJ’s in action. If you can help with any of these aspects please contact stuart as soon as possible
e-mail stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk

MJ10K (Stuart’s message from 16/6/11)
Many thanks to everyone who helped to make Wednesday night’s race such a great success. I don’t have final numbers but I understand we had around 270 runners do the race which is 10% more than our previous best. In addition to doing our bit and putting on a great race for the running community, we should also make a decent profit.
There were over 60 Malvern Joggers, family and friends involved on race night, several doing two jobs, and several managing to help out beforehand and then running the race. Megan was on car parking duties before she ran and was the overall ladies winner. Jon Green took out the styles before he ran, was first MJ to finish and then rebuilt them before joining everyone at the village hall. Doing our own catering was a new dimension and the catering team did a fantastic job
Special thanks, to Jerry and Julia Greer for organising race entries, logging everyone in on the night, and then computing the race results. Jerry spent the whole of race night in front of his laptop and saw nothing of the race. There should be a good write up of our race in this week’s Malvern Gazette.
Thanks again to everyone for a really great evening.
The results are available on our website
Praise from three of the competitors......
James Bingham of Tewkesbury AC (race no 169) - Firstly a BIG thank you for organising such a fantastic event. I cannot offer up enough praise, everything was so slick and well planned. And what club generosity, t-shirts, medals for winners, cider, delicious hot dogs and all for under a tenner! You must have also had to pay 10's of pounds to get the Chuckle brothers as well, tens of pounds lol.
I've done about 40 events in the last 2 years and nothing comes close to this for value for money. How do you do it?!!
Once again, huge thanks for putting on the must-do club event of the year to date, look forward to next year.
Happy training / racing, Kind regards, James Bingham
From Roger Yarnold of the Black Pear Joggers - I would like to thank all the marshals for all being friendly and supportive of all the runners including us slowcoaches at the back. Well done Malvern Joggers.
From our own Paul Newman - I'd just like to say how much I loved this race, my 1st running of the event all the marshals were so encouraging! it was gr8 atmosphere, the race is now up there as one of my favourite all time runs ! I even enjoyed struggling with those blimmin marquees before the race. Everyone I spoke to enjoyed it and this enhanced by fantastic job done by Richard Lisa and the catering staff that topped off a brilliant day !!

Club run on Wednesday week (29th June)
A message from Geoff Field - This will be from the Drum & Monkey on the Gloucester Road just outside Upton-upon-Severn. This is a new venue for us and offers some different running routes (some of them flat!).
Several of you have spotted that the pub is currently closed for refurbishment.
Do not worry!
The landlord is expecting us and is happy for us to use the carpark. Also, he will be opening one of the function rooms at the back of the pub, especially for Malvern Joggers.
Please make a special effort to stay on for a drink after the run, as a gesture of our appreciation for the support he is giving us."

Summer Solstice Bacon Buttie run !
From Paul Newman - Last week I forwarded details of The Summer Solstice Bacon Buttie run ! I thought nobody’s going to want to get up at silly O'clock and go for a hill run ! How wrong was I ! So far over 20 joggers have all said they would like to go for a hill run at 4 o'clock in the morning. This is what "Elsie" from Mudrunner says ..
Tues 21st june, at 4am elsie is running (well he jogs really) from the Hollybush via midsummer hill and the obelisk to see the solstice sunrise on british camp. Bacon sandwiches and cup of tea on the top and then a gentle jog back to the Hollybush car park. If you fancy coming drop a note here so we order enough bacon. You can then all go to work feeling smug.
www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=hp#!/event.php?eid=230109247015254
you will need to confirm attendance on the Malvern Jogger Facebook page !

Worcester 5k Parkrun
From Graham Cramp - This is a new weekly event in Worcester, taking place at 9am each Saturday morning, free of charge and run by volunteers - the only requirement is to register in advance on the website (parkrun.org.uk/worcester). It's a two-lap course starting and finishing at the Countryside Centre in Spetchley. I'll be doing this event on Sat 2nd July, and will give a lift to any other MJs who want to join me. Give me a call or text if you plan to run (07770 842011) - meet at my place, 40 Hall Green WR14 3QX, 8.15am on 2nd July. If it turns out to be a regular event for us, we can volunteer to help out on a rota basis.
And from Phil Jackson - I really do recommend Parkrun very strongly indeed. It would be great if the Joggers could support this new one.
The free to enter Worcester parkrun starts its 1st run this coming weekend, 18th June at 9 a.m, and we hope you can join us. The run starts at the Worcester Countryside Centre and goes through the woods on a well marked trail and back to the finish in the field.
For more information about the event please visit the Parkrun website. You only need to register with parkrun once, and can then just turn up as you wish on any Saturday morning.
We hope you can join us next Saturday, if you can't make it we hope you can come and try it out in the future, we'll be there every Saturday.
If you or someone you know wants to volunteer you'd be very welcome too there's something for everyone to do.

Message from Roodie
Just to let you know that the ASS is cancelled this Friday due to the Midsummer Marathon on Saturday, normal service will resumed the following Friday 1st July

Race Reports
Aldridge 10K 12/6/11 by Julie Caseley
The Aldridge 10k is either basking in sunshine or it’s pouring down with rain. Today, like 2 years ago, it was
pouring with rain. The course is challenging and undulating, run on road with a picturesque last quarter run quiet along country lanes. After the water station at 5.5km, there is a lovely long sweep downhill but what goes down must also come back up again. The last 3km or so was a gradual climb back up to the finish at the Cricket and Hockey Club. There was a lovely medal and mug as well as a note pad, pen and bottle of water for all finishers. There were also 3 children’s races as well as a 4.3km race, all receiving a medal with 1st, 2nd and 3rd receiving a trophy. I finished in virtually the same time as last year, 49:02, and won my age category.
Thanks, Julie
Blakedown Bolt 17/6/11 by Julie Caseley
The Blakedown Bolt is a very popular race run on a Friday evening. There is a definite party atmosphere with bar, BBQ, cakes and sweets as well as a bouncy castle for the youngsters. The course itself is challenging with a nice downward stretch to start with, complete with a long sandy bit then uphill through the woods (I seem to blank this part from my mind from one year to the next!) Then it’s back through a water crossing, returning along the same outward bound route.
The sandy stretch going back uphill is a challenge on tired legs but with a constant drizzle of rain, seemed to
make it a tad firmer underfoot this year. Three Malvern Joggers turned out for this race – Andy Dickenson, Lucy Prosser and myself, both Lucy and myself beating our previous best times at this race by nearly a minute. Well done to Lucy as well for riding her bike to the event, taking 10 minutes less than I did in the car!!
Thanks, Julie
The Humph’s Hilly Half Saturday 19/6/11 6pm by Chris Barker
I call it the Bourton-on-the-Water half marathon because that’s where it takes place. It’s named after ‘Humph’ who was involved in the earlier years of the event but is now competing in the next life. This was my third attempt at this very aptly named race. Parking is outside a visitor attraction called Birdland (with lots of exotic chirping coming from within) and there is also a Model Village. Perhaps I could run around that one. Look out, here comes the giant!
Back to the race, which was my 300th, by the way, and 68th half marathon since I started this running lark in 1996. The course is not exactly flat. The climbs are long, strait and steady but I suppose so is the downhill. It starts with a big climb (called, the Steeps!) and it took me 10.14 to do the first mile but I got going when it levelled out with mile two taking me 8.18 I suppose it’s good to get the biggest hill out of the way first. The race starter caused some amusement. Having climbed to the top of his platform he asked if everyone could move off slowly as he was doing the race himself and then we were off on a tour through numerous Cotswold villages. No other MJs but a few familiar faces from other running clubs. This is the third year on the trot for me in a race I said I would never do again after the first time but it has now become one of my favourites. For me, half marathons are about finishing in one piece, and inside two hours, although it’s getting ever more difficult. I finished in 1.54.42, so, a few minutes in hand and better still I was running on strongly in the last mile unlike the two previous years. The race momento was a long sleeved T-shirt as in previous years. Mercifully, the rain stayed off apart from a quick shower around miles 5 and 6.
Timberhonger 10K, 18/6/11 by Julie Caseley
The race this year was changed from Sunday morning to Saturday evening at 6 pm in the hope that the weather would be cooler as it has normally been very hot. It was still quite muggy but there seemed to be a very good turnout for this challenging road race starting at the top of Timberhonger Lane and finishing in Sanders Park, Bromsgrove.
The course was a very undulating out, 2 laps and back on traffic free country lanes. There was also a Children’s Challenge event of approximately 1 mile starting at 5.30 pm. There were just 2 MJ’s here, Barry Swindells and myself with Barry finishing in a fantastic 40:08 and collecting the MV60 prize and I finished in a PB for this course by 1 minute in 50:17.
Thanks again, Julie
Wye Valley Hereford 10k, 19/6/11 by Julie Caseley
This morning was the Wye Valley Hereford 10k organised by Wye Valley Runners which was the same course as
the New Years Day Hereford 10k only run in reverse. I hadn’t done the summer race before but it seemed just as challenging, if not more so. Three Malvern Joggers turned out for this event – Stuart Day, Vicki Sivertsen and myself. Stuart did a very good time on a difficult course, Vicki was 2nd lady finisher and I won my age category(50:
27) so a good day out all round. I don’t normally do 3 races in 3 days but I couldn’t make my mind up so I decided
to do them all!!
Thanks yet again, Julie

Forthcoming Events
The Droitwich 10K Road Race is part of the Summer Mid Week Series and is on Wednesday 20th July 2011.
The start and finish is at Gaudet Luce Golf Complex, Middle Lane, Droitwich WR9 7JR.
Entries on the Day only. - £4.00 for attached club runners and £6 for un-attached. The start is 7:30 p.m.
I have attached a flyer which shows the course. This is a short version of the Half Marathon course you did in March.
However, we may run the race in opposite direction to that shown on the map, to give a different perspective of the course.
Registration will be open from 6:15 p.m. in the Gaudet Luce Club House.
Regards, Martin Smith, Droitwich AC
And also the Lichfield 10K
We hope you can help please. We have volunteered to help organise the Lichfield 10k taking place on September 11th. We have designed new entry forms and we would be most grateful if you could forward these to your club members as they may wish to enter. We have secured some excellent sponsorship including Goody Bags donated by Zip Fit, along with items from Marmite and drinks from Angel Water.
All runners will receive a high quality wicking tee-shirt and we have a prize fund of over £1000.
As always, this is a Gold Grade event and accurately measured course. We really hope to see as many club members join us for the biggest and best Lichfield 10k to date.
Many thanks and warm regards, Rachel & Paul Faulkner, Lichfield Running Club – Entries
Email: lichfield10k@btinternet.com Phone: 01543 417733

Herefordshire Summer Off-Road League Update
From Jon Green - 29 MJs are registered for the summer league, which is a great response. There's still room for more, so if anyone else is interested in doing one or more of the races let me know (green.jonathan@virgin.net or 079 7416 8577). The dates and venues are 22-Jun at Aconbury, 6-Jul at Kinnersley, 20-Jul at Westhope and 3-Aug at Shobdon. The Club has paid the entry fee, so there's nothing for individuals to pay. All races start at 7.30pm, which will generally mean leaving Malvern at 5.30 pm to get to the venue in time for a warm up. If you have already registered please let me know whether or not you will be running Aconbury on 22-Jun. Many thanks.
Tel. 0797416 8577

A Champions League Reminder
The next two races are the Evesham Vale 10k on 10th July and the Pitchcroft 10k on 17th July.

MJs Annual BBQ
The Jogger's BBQ will be at the Chase Inn again on the 1st Wednesday in July (6th) after the run. More details to follow.

Thunder 24 Latest
From Paul - For all those who enjoy the thought of a night run ..unfortuately a jogger has had to withdraw from the team, we therefore have one free team place ! please contact me if you wish to join us !

Kit Message
From Roodie - Hi a number of members have again requested me to order hoodies, could anyone wanting a hoodie please drop me a quick e-mail and just confirm their requirements.
I need to know the following:-
Type - Zip or Non Zip, Size – Small, medium, large etc
Name required ie – Roodie, Where Name required – Back, Front or Both
If it is a child’s hoodie – their age, Prices are:-
Non Zip - £16 plus £1 for each print, Zip - £18 plus £1 for each print
Childs around £12 (I think)
Cheers, Steve ......... steveroode1@yahoo.co.uk

Midsummer Marathon
On the 25th of June the LDWA are holding the Midsummer Marathon ! this is a fantastic event that normally attracts a good field of Malvern Joggers this year there should be a field of around 20 MJ's taking part and you could be one of them ! This is an event that you can either run or do as a lot of us did last year and walk and run it, it is a very social way to run a Marathon as you stop for drinks every 2 miles have lunch in Ledbury and they throw in a meal at the finish ! all for £7 brilliant !
Start Time: Walkers start 08.00 Runners start 09.00
Route: With 4,800ft of descent, from Wyche Primary School, Malvern: on fps including the length of the Malvern Hills and Ledbury
Cost: Entry: in advance £5, (non-LDWA £7) no eotd includes hot and cold drinks (bring a mug please) and snacks on Cps and meal at finish. All finishers receive an A5 certificate and results list
Talking of Midsummer I've had a message from Kes from Mudrunner about a little run you guys might like ..Kes says ..Tues 21st june, at 4am elsie is running (well he jogs really) from the Hollybush via midsummer hill and the obelisk to see the solstice sunrise on british camp. bacon sandwiches and cup of tea on the top and then a gentle jog back to the hollybush car park. if you fancy coming drop a note so we order enough bacon. You can then all go to work feeling smug
( you will need to look on Facebook on the Mudrunner page to confirm attendance)

The Thunder 24 hour relay event is next month !! we have two 8 man teams currently entered, but there is still room for another ! Paul Newman says ....
What is TR24? Adidas Thunder Run is a 24 hour off-road relay race against the clock. Whether you run solo or in a team of 2-8 it'll test your tactics, endurance, speed and team work. It's an exhilarating, rewarding and tiring race with a great atmosphere. You'll find TR24 physically challenging and mentally tough but an experience not to be missed.
What to expect: You can set up camp either the The TR24 course is a 10km cross-country circuit set in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside. The track twists and turns across varied terrain so you'll find yourself running from bogs and forests to steep hills and open fields. Whether you're running through the night with a head torch or whilst the sun rises, there's always a change of scenery to keep you on your toes.
Facilities: The team from Science in Sport will be on site all weekend and our sports masseurs will be on hand for everyone (no fixed charges but a small donation would be appreciated).
For spectators and hungry runners our event caterer will be positioned trackside serving throughout the event
• 24 hour hot food & catering
• fully marshalled & signed course
• on-course water stations
• hot showers
• changing facilities
• free camping all weekend for
runners and spectators night before or the morning of the race to start soaking up the atmosphere. Once you're geared up, your first runner will assemble at the start line at 12pm and when the claxon goes, together you won't finish for 24 hours.
The rules: One team member must be on the course at all times during the 24hrs. Runners must complete one full 10km lap before changing over with a team mate but may run 2, 3 or more laps at a time before changeover. The team with the most laps completed when the clock stops after 24hrs will be the winner !
We need to start planning to make sure everyone has access to camping facillities, food and drink We also need the right kit, a few changes of running gear and head torches (Joggers on tour T shirts ??)! let the discussions begin ..
Cheers Paul ....... paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk

Cross Country News
Advance notice for Herefordshire Summer X-Country League – from Jon Green - After the dominant performance by our ladies in the Winter League it's time to turn our thoughts to the Summer League. Quite a few of us ran last summer as guests and thoroughly enjoyed it. It's the same friendly crowd and range of ages and speeds as the Winter League. but without the frozen extremities and hopefully with less wind, rain and mud. For each club the 1st lady and first 3 men score as the A team and the 2nd lady and 4th to 6th men score as the B team and so on. So we should have several teams for each race. More good news for the ladies is that unlike the Winter League, in the Summer the ladies and men run the same course and distance. All the races are on a Wednesday evening in beautiful parts of the Herefordshire countryside. The dates and locations are (as far as we know) Aconbury 22 June, Kinnersley 6 July, Westhope 20 July and Shobdon 3 August. There's a one-off team entry fee for the whole series paid by our Club, so all you have to do is say if you're interested, confirm before each race if you're going to run, turn up, run and enjoy. Let me (green.jonathan@virgin.net or 079 7416 8577) or Nick Hitchings (nicholas.hitchings@homecall.co.uk or 075 9564 4180) know if you're interested as each team member has to be registered to run and is allocated a number for the series.
Please see the attachments

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tues 21/6 Summer Solstice Buttie Run – Hollybush car park 4.00am
Wed 22/6 Three Kings – Hanley Castle
Wed 22/6 Cross-Country League - Aconbury
Thu 23/6 Bredon Bash – Elmley Castle Cricket Club 7.30pm
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Sun 26/6 Bromyard Round the Downs Race
Sun 26/6 Glos Community Foundation Quarter & Full Marathon – Boddington
Sat 2/7 Open Forum Event (featuring the MJs) at Malvern Theatres – Volunteers needed
Wed 6/7 BBQ at The Chase Inn, after the run
Wed 6/7 Cross-Country League - Kinnersley
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Wed 20/7 Cross-Country League - Westhope
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Wed 3/8 Cross-Country League - Shobdon
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 1/10 May Hill Challenge
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, Chris

Chris's Blog from 12 June 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

A Champions League Reminder
From Julie Caseley - A quick reminder that the next Champions League race is the Blakedown Bolt on Friday, 17th June. Although the race is officially full, if you have a burning desire to do this event it won't hurt to ring the organisers to see if anyone has returned their number which they might be prepared to reallocate. It's worth a try!! The next two races are the Evesham Vale 10k on 10th July and the Pitchcroft 10k on 17th July.

Attention Gentle Joggers
From Geoff Field - Several of you have said you would like to take part in next Wednesday's Malvern Joggers 10K race, but feel daunted by the thought of trailing in far behind those elite athletes with which the club is so amply endowed.
As a concession to Gentle Joggers, the Race Committee is offering an early start time of 19:00 (normal start 19:30) for those who don't feel up to the challenge of completing the course at race pace. You will need to arrive at Welland Village Hall by 18:30 in order to collect your number and get to the start for a 19:00 start.
This obviously takes some extra organisation, so in order to take up this offer you must let me (not the Race Secretary) have your completed entry form, together with the appropriate fee (£8:00 if you are a club member, £10:00 if you haven't joined yet) by Sunday evening at the latest. My address is:
The Lodge, Back Lane, Great Malvern, WR14 2HJ or you can e-mail me your entry form and I will collect the money and your signature on Wednesday (no money, no signature - no run).
Please mark your entry form clearly "Gentle Jogger."
Best wishes and good luck, Geoff Field, Club secretary

MJs Annual BBQ
The Jogger's BBQ will be at the Chase Inn again on the 1st Wednesday in July (6th) after the run. More details to follow.

Kit Message
From Roodie - Hi a number of members have again requested me to order hoodies, could anyone wanting a hoodie please drop me a quick e-mail and just confirm their requirements.
I need to know the following:-
Type - Zip or Non Zip
Size – Small, medium, large etc
Name required ie – Roodie
Where Name required – Back, Front or Both
If it is a child’s hoodie – their age
Prices are:-
Non Zip - £16 plus £1 for each print
Zip - £18 plus £1 for each print
Childs around £12 (I think)
Cheers, Steve ......... steveroode1@yahoo.co.uk

More ‘Running is Good for You’ Stuff
From the Ordnance Survey website ....
Our ancient ancestors were runners, so running is in our genes. You don’t have to pound the pavements for hours on end to enjoy the benefits of running, Off-road runs in open spaces and the countryside can put less stress on your body and have additional mental health benefits. Running 2-3 times a week for just 20-30 minutes a time can make a big difference to your overall physical condition and state of mind. So here’s our guide to the top benefits of running.
Get an instant buzz
Regular runners start to miss the feeling of euphoria and the ‘high’ that comes from running, and there’s medical evidence for this. It’s not only the feeling of freedom and the enjoyment of exercise. Running, like many other types of exercise, makes you feel good during and afterwards because your body releases chemicals called endorphins. Endorphins not only heighten your pain threshold because they’re naturally-produced painkillers (opiates) they also result in feelings of happiness. The more endorphins that are released, literally the happier you become.
Give your brain power a boost
Researchers at Cambridge University have shown that aerobic exercises like running can lead to the growth of new brain cells due to increased blood flow through the brain or higher hormone levels. John Ratey from Harvard describes running as a kind of ‘Miracle-Gro’ for the brain because it helps produce proteins that improve the circuitry of the brain, this is known as ‘brain-derived neurotrophic factor’ (or BDNF).
Sweet dreams
There’s a lot of evidence that cardio-vascular exercise like running helps you to sleep better and feel more refreshed and alert throughout the day. Sleep repairs, relaxes and reinvigorates you, therefore you more deeper type of sleep you get the better you’ll feel. If you run regularly, you’re more likely to fall asleep faster, and have deeper and less interrupted sleep.
General health benefits
Regular running gives you the same, if not better cardiovascular workout than many other types of exercise, and improves your all-round physical condition. Running is a great calorie-burner so it really helps with weight loss and control. You’ll also reduce your risk of contracting diseases like high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes and even some cancers, as well as boosting your immune system, circulation and breathing.
Joints, muscles and bones
Running leads to stronger joints, muscles and bones, but only if you wear decent running shoes, build up your running distance gradually and do plenty of off-road trail-type runs rather than just running on roads or treadmills.
Learning on the go
There’s scientific evidence, from the like of Jay Schneider, that running outdoors, especially in stimulating countryside environments helps the brain to learn more quickly. He has also shown that running in new locations helps you learn more efficiently, perhaps because of the added mental stimulus it provides. Time to stick those learn a language files on your mp3 player then.
Improve your mood
GPs and mental health experts are increasingly prescribing forms of exercise rather than drugs to lift people’s mood and to help them with depression. The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) advises that running is the perfect way to beat depression because of the positive and uplifting feelings it gives you, as well as relaxation and lower anxiety. The MHF also say that running gives you new goals, a sense of purpose and something positive to focus on and aim for – all of which can boost your self-esteem.
Get into the countryside
We can’t leave out the benefits of getting out in the fresh air and experiencing the sights and sounds of the natural environment. Off-road and trail running in particular lets you turn off from the pressures of everyday life and tune into the landscape, wildlife, scenery. Running needn’t be a chore, it can become a real pleasure, and there are so many other benefits why wait any longer – get running.

Forthcoming Races
Fast & Furious Series,

from Kidderminster & Stourport AC .... We are organising the Fast & Furious series at, we have already had two events out of the four, this is the first time we have ran this event.
We would really appreciate your help in asking your members to come and compete in this event, as a club we try and support all the local events and enter as many local runs as possible.
So please do your best and contact all your members and support Kidderminster & Stourport AC, I have attached our 5K flyer.
Kind Regards, Caroline Cresswell, Kiderminster & Stourport AC
Bromyard Round the Downs Race 26/6/11
Approx 4.5 mile road race on a triangular course starting and finishing at the Post Office in Bromyard. The first leg is gently uphill along the A44 towards Worcester, then it turns left and goes across the Bromyard Downs for about one and a half miles. Lovely views for those taking a breather! Then you turn left and downhill via the B4203 towards Bromyard. This race was run regularly up to about 1985 then lapsed until 2010 when it was reinstated with the winner of the 1937 race starting us off! There are 6 classes, open mens and ladies, veteren men and ladies and supervet mens and ladies. The minimum age for competing is 15 and entries will be taken on the day up to half an hour before the race start. The start time is 11.00am. Last year it was blisteringly hot so there will be a good chance of a time improvement this time if it's a little cooler.

The Thunder 24 hour relay event is next month !! we have two 8 man teams currently entered, but there is still room for another ! Paul Newman says ....
What is TR24?
adidas Thunder Run is a 24 hour off-road relay race against the clock. Whether you run solo or in a team of 2-8 it'll test your tactics, endurance, speed and team work. It's an exhilarating, rewarding and tiring race with a great atmosphere. You'll find TR24 physically challenging and mentally tough but an experience not to be missed.
What to expect:
You can set up camp either the The TR24 course is a 10km cross-country circuit set in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside. The track twists and turns across varied terrain so you'll find yourself running from bogs and forests to steep hills and open fields. Whether you're running through the night with a head torch or whilst the sun rises, there's always a change of scenery to keep you on your toes.
Facilities:
The team from Science in Sport will be on site all weekend and our sports masseurs will be on hand for everyone (no fixed charges but a small donation would be appreciated).
For spectators and hungry runners our event caterer will be positioned trackside serving throughout the event
• 24 hour hot food & catering
• fully marshalled & signed course
• on-course water stations
• hot showers
• changing facilities
• free camping all weekend for
runners and spectators night before or the morning of the race to start soaking up the atmosphere. Once you're geared up, your first runner will assemble at the start line at 12pm and when the claxon goes, together you won't finish for 24 hours.
The rules:
One team member must be on the course at all times during the 24hrs. Runners must complete one full 10km lap before changing over with a team mate but may run 2, 3 or more laps at a time before changeover. The team with the most laps completed when the clock stops after 24hrs will be the winner !
We need to start planning to make sure everyone has access to camping facillities, food and drink We also need the right kit, a few changes of running gear and head torches (Joggers on tour T shirts ??)! let the discussions begin ..
Cheers Paul ....... paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 15/6 Malvern Joggers 10K – Welland Village Hall 7.30pm
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sat 18/6 Timberhonger 10K – Bromsgrove
Sat 18/6 Bourton Hilly Half Marathon
Wed 22/6 Cross-Country League - Aconbury
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Sun 26/6 Bromyard Round the Downs Race
Wed 6/7 BBQ at The Chase Inn , after the run
Wed 6/7 Cross-Country League - Kinnersley
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Wed 20/7 Cross-Country League - Westhope
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Wed 3/8 Cross-Country League - Shobdon
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 1/10 May Hill Challenge
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, Chris

Chris's Blog from 05 June 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Two messages from Stuart B......
The list of race marshals and helpers is on the attachment. We are still sorting out locations for the marshals, thanks for your patience. Please let me know if I’ve missed anyone out or there are any mistakes.
And ....
Lynda Walford completed her first marathon in Edinburgh in 4:01:18. This is nine minutes faster than I recorded in last week’s blog which was then copied in Friday’s Gazette, Sorry Lynda!

MJ Paul Newman informs us all that .......
The Thunder 24 hour relay event is next month !! we have two 8 man teams currently entered, but there is still room for another !
What is TR24?
adidas Thunder Run is a 24 hour off-road relay race against the clock. Whether you run solo or in a team of 2-8 it'll test your tactics, endurance, speed and team work. It's an exhilarating, rewarding and tiring race with a great atmosphere. You'll find TR24 physically challenging and mentally tough but an experience not to be missed.
What to expect:
You can set up camp either the The TR24 course is a 10km cross-country circuit set in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside. The track twists and turns across varied terrain so you'll find yourself running from bogs and forests to steep hills and open fields. Whether you're running through the night with a head torch or whilst the sun rises, there's always a change of scenery to keep you on your toes.
Facilities:
The team from Science in Sport will be on site all weekend and our sports masseurs will be on hand for everyone (no fixed charges but a small donation would be appreciated).
For spectators and hungry runners our event caterer will be positioned trackside serving throughout the event
• 24 hour hot food & catering
• fully marshalled & signed course
• on-course water stations
• hot showers
• changing facilities
• free camping all weekend for
runners and spectators night before or the morning of the race to start soaking up the atmosphere. Once you're geared up, your first runner will assemble at the start line at 12pm and when the claxon goes, together you won't finish for 24 hours.
The rules:
One team member must be on the course at all times during the 24hrs. Runners must complete one full 10km lap before changing over with a team mate but may run 2, 3 or more laps at a time before changeover. The team with the most laps completed when the clock stops after 24hrs will be the winner !
We need to start planning to make sure everyone has access to camping facillities, food and drink We also need the right kit, a few changes of running gear and head torches (Joggers on tour T shirts ??)! let the discussions begin ..
Cheers Paul ....... paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk

Kit Message from Roodie ....
Hi as you may know Steve O has resigned his post as treasurer and I need to tie up a few loose ends with him before he finishes. So could all members that owe money for kit they have received please pay me asap. I know I can be a little elusive on Wednesdays or that some of you don't always make the Wednesday runs, so if you need to post a cheque through my door it is 75 Yates Hay road (opposite Dyson Perrins school), that also applies to those of you that require kit - pop down and I will try and Kit you out!!
Cheers, Steve
Also
The First ASS (Alternative Speed Session) went really well on Friday, thanks to those of you that turned out - we also had a Body Balance class afterwards, plus a beer/cuppa thrown in. Feel free to come along to the next session on Friday 6.00pm.

Cycling Speed Trial Event …… with Joggers !
From Steve O. …On Sunday 12th June, Steve Price from the Malvern Fringe has invited anyone from the Malvern Joggers to join him at their Church Street speed trial event.
For those who know, the event is usually for cyclists only and Church Street is closed from 10am to 3.30pm.
However, this year runners are invited, so if you fancy a challenge, just turn up on the day!

Race Reports
Forces March – 5 marathons in 5 days by Duncan Cresswell
I’ll keep it brief!
I noticed this race back in November and thought that it would make quite a nice mini holiday for me. 5 days of running and camping, breakfast and dinner provided, what more could I ask for?!
With the start at Ilfracombe, I made my way down there via trains and a bus. I left Ledbury at 7:50am and my tent was pitched at a campsite by 3:15pm so not bad at all I thought. Booked train 3 months in advance so it only cost me £23 as opposed to £80 odd!
Anyway, the runs. Each of the 5 days was run on roads. Most of them were fine with light traffic or very quiet country lanes. The only nasty stretch which lasted for a good 15 miles was on the 3rd day. Hopefully they will amend this for next year because it did really put a downer on the whole event.
My plan was to gently run each day around 10min/mile pace. With stops at the odd check point for food and a chat the minutes soon passed by, but it wasn’t about time for me. It was about getting around in one piece without too many aches and pains and to feel good as possible at the end. The last thing I wanted was to feel ill after day 5 and not be able to smile and talk to the family straight away at the end. I also came down with a throat infection and cold which really kicked in by day 2, so I had to be sensible. Feeling ill, tired and running 26 plus miles along busy roads needs a lot of concentration and energy.
The runs kicked off at 10am, which was a bit late for my liking as I do suffer in the heat, but can’t have it all. My times were:
Day 1 – Ilfracombe to Exford – 27.24 miles - 5:04 - only banana provided for food at 6 miles.
Day 2 – Exford to Crowcombe – 27.78 mile - 5:31 – nice fruit cake at pub!
Day 3 – Crowcombe to Somerton – 29.27miles - 6:29 – walked a lot of the flat due to very busy roads, heat and throat/cold really bad. Stopped for food and photo in Bridgwater, lots of fruit.
Day 4 – Somerton to Maiden Bradley – 24.63miles - 5:08 – lovely spread of food put on for us in small town halfway…. feasted well!
Day 5 – Maiden Bradley to Bulford – 25.89miles – 5:25 – stopped for ice cream ?
The terrain for most days was hilly. The first two days were particularly hard in terms of ascent (3500-4000ft each). Quite often the final 5 miles would include quite a steep ascent just to finish you off (they might just have well just given us a vertical ladder to climb for 15 mins at that point) and to add an extra 30mins to finish time. But in retrospect, I’d rather have that than a long, straight and flat road to run along. Keeps it interesting!
Couldn’t grumble with times at all and I came 11th overall, which is nice little bonus.
I would most definitely do it again, or something similar and recommend to all.
Thanks to everyone who has sponsored me. If you’ve got a few pounds in your pocket or handbag just doing nothing then it’s still not too late to donate to Project 65 – The Veteran’s charity www.justgiving.com/duncan5marathons .
Thanks, Duncan
Magic Roundabout 10K, 5/6/11 by Julie Caseley
Four Malvern Joggers (Carl Anthony, Ian Dyson, Amanda Dawson and myself) turned out for this novel, very friendly race near Hay-on-Wye this morning organised by Hay Hotfooters.
The start was at the Roundabout, 650m uphill from the race HQ. Also, because it was a little chilly, competitors could leave outer clothing in a vehicle at the start which could be collected after the race from the baggage tent.
This was a very welcome facility. The course was undulating (no, hilly), mostly on close cropped turf which was
lovely to run on with a short stretch of stone track but because of the recent dry weather there were no streams or mud. There was a water station at about 6km and “more white arrows than at Custer’s last stand” to mark the course, according to the Race Co-ordinator at the start!!
I was following Amanda fairly closely the whole way round but couldn’t make any ground on her. That is until I saw two lady runners join the race from the bracken on my right at about 8km looking remarkably fresh!! They were my target, but in catching them on the final two punishing hills, I also caught Amanda and we decided to run the last 200m together. Finishing order was Carl, Ian and joint 3rd Amanda and myself – 55:45 nearly 2 mins faster than 2009.
After the race there were t-shirts for all competitors, bananas, mars bars, crisps and cakes to die for!! The results were fast and efficient although not entirely accurate. I was awarded the Vet 50 prize but soon realised there were 2 faster runners in that age group so I held on to my bottle of wine and medal for a few minutes until the organisers sorted the problem out and re-presented the prize to the correct winner!!
Thanks, Julie

Forthcoming Race - The Bredon Bash 23/6/11
Evesham Vale Running Club has invited the Malvern Joggers to their Bredon Bash on 23rd June.
THIS IS AN INVITATION ONLY EVENT. The 6 miles Bredon Bash will take place on Thursday 23rd June. The main start will be at 7.30pm with a 7.10pm start for those who expect to take longer than an hour. The race fee is £5 EACH with all entries being taken on the day and registration from 6pm at Elmley Castle Cricket Club, The Pavilion, Elmley Castle Playing Field, Elmley Castle, WR10 3HY. ALL RUNNERS MUST BE OVER 18. PRIZES FOR 1ST LADY AND MALE, ALONG WITH AGE GROUP AND TEAM PRIZES. There may be a few others too, but these will be a surprise!! SANDWICHES TO ALL, IN THE CLUB HOUSE AFTER THE RACE. Any further information, please contact Jess and Chris Taylor, taylor.jessica75@yahoo.co.uk or 01386 443200 or 07817 976528
Put the date in your diary.

Also Darren’s Dash Sunday 12th June at 2 pm
A reminder from the organiser’s of this one.....
Visit www.darrensdash.co.uk for the latest information including conditions underfoot.
To download an entry form visit www.wyevalleyrunners.co.uk
Hope to see you on the day, Mike Fawcett, Race organiser

The Olympic Torch is coming through Worcester
Paul Newman with the info .... Worcester has been chosen to host the Olympic torch on 24 May next year as it journeys across the UK in the run-up to the 2012 London Games. The Olympic flame will arrive in the UK on 18 May, 2012, and the 70-day relay will start from Land's End in Cornwall.
Nominations have opened for community volunteers to carry the torch.
...I feel we should nominate a few worthy Malvern Joggers to carry the torch on the day
It will spend one night in Worcester and an evening of cultural events are being planned to celebrate its arrival in the city.
The Conservative-controlled city council said: "The torch will remain in the city overnight, while Worcester celebrates with an impressive community event which will showcase local talent, culture and heritage."
'Excitement builds'
Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London 2012 Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, added: "We are thrilled that Worcester City Council has agreed to host the Olympic flame on its journey right across the UK
How do I become a torchbearer?
To become a torchbearer you should be nominated by someone else.
7,200 of the 8,000 torchbearers will be publicly nominated via four campaigns.
The first campaign is Locog's 'Moment to Shine' search which aims to find 2,012 torchbearers
How do I nominate someone?
To nominate a torchbearer through the 'Moment to Shine' campaign visit the London 2012 Olympic torch relay website.
You will have to write 100-150 words on why you believe your nominee deserves to carry the Olympic flame
When is the deadline for nominations?
There are six weeks to nominate torchbearers via the 'Moment to Shine' campaign before the deadline of 11.59pm 29 June 2011.
There will, however, be further opportunities to nominate torchbearers during campaigns organised by the three sponsors of the Olympic Torch Relay from June 2011
Also on the 24th of May the latest quarterly edition of Trail Runner magazine is due out,its a good read and makes a change from Runners World, last edition featured Simeon Foreman in a couple of photos, this edition is dominated by The Malvern Joggers again with photos of six of us in action plus the now imfamous Roodie's video clip gets a mention.

A Few Items from our Chairman Stuart .....
We already have one nomination for Treasurer to take over from Steve Ollis when he retires in a few weeks time. If anyone else is interested please let either the secretary Geoff Field or myself know within the next week.
We should now have enough marshals and helpers for our race on 15th June, but reserve the right to ask again if we lose any volunteers! So we would now like the remaining Joggers to get their race entries in as soon as possible to get plenty of names on the race website.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tue 7/6 Speed Training – Morrisons 5.45pm (every Tuesday until 5/7/11)
Wed 8/6 Club Night - Old Bush, Callow End 7pm
Sun 12/6 Speed Trail Event – Church Street, Cycling + Joggers. 10–3.30pm
Wed 15/6 Malvern Joggers 10K
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sat 18/6 Timberhonger 10K – Bromsgrove
Sat 18/6 Bourton Hilly Half Marathon
Wed 22/6 Cross-Country League - Aconbury
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Wed 6/7 Cross-Country League - Kinnersley
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Wed 20/7 Cross-Country League - Westhope
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Wed 3/8 Cross-Country League - Shobdon
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 1/10 May Hill Challenge
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, Chris

Chris's Blog from 29 May 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Race Reports
Edinburgh Marathon 22/5/11 by Stuart Brown
The Edinburgh Marathon course is fast and there’s good potential for PB’s. I’d certainly be tempted to do the race again.
10 Joggers did the marathon with support from MJ’s Jenni Cross and Sheila Jackson. I travelled by car, leaving home at 5.30 on Saturday morning arriving late morning after a traffic free drive. The other MJ’s flew but friends from Ware Joggers paid £45 return train fare.
The marathon is from a double start in the city, the first start going 10 minutes before the second to spread the runners out, which works well for start 1. The course drops down to the sea and then heads out east along the coast before turning at 18 miles to run back towards the city and finishing 8 miles from the start.
The course is fast but rather congested and frustrating for those starting in the second wave. There was a scarcity of mile markers which made pacing difficult, so much so that I may have to give in and buy a Garmin in my quest to shave off another 7-8 seconds per mile.
My race got tough from 18 miles when we turned and had to run back into the wind, which coincided with running out of energy. Miles 19 and 20 were pretty slow but another gel and some friendly encouragement from fellow runners and my pace picked up. The last few miles is always hard work but I finished almost 5 minutes faster than in London. There were some fantastic performances from the Joggers including six first marathons. Well done to Andy and his ladies and to Sam and Sue. A great weekend and fun to spend time with the Joggers on Tour.
Megan Judge 3.30.34, Amanda Duncan 3.59.19, Lynda Walford 4.10.18
Fong Bettinson 4.39.12, Sue Sharpe 4.36.05 Sam Carrington 4.36.05
Amanda Dawson 3.55.25, Andy Milton 3.55.25, Stuart Brown 3.23.24
Steve Roode 3.37.35
Thanks, Stuart
Acorns Malvern Half Marathon 29/5/11 by Chris Barker
Asking around in the run-up to the event I found it difficult to find another MJ who had entered the Half. The response was the same ‘I don’t like the course’ i.e. I don’t enjoy the run up from Guarlford to the Bluebell. I have to say, after running the route in today’s event, it’s now got to me also and the 5K event now seems like a more attractive option for next year. I know there are some who would prefer to see the Half run the other way round but anti-clockwise is probably the safer option (less crossing of roads) so that is unlikely.
For some reason it always seems to be blowing a gale down on the Three Counties Showground on Acorns day. Today was no exception although there’s always a chance that it won’t be blowing in your face when you turn the corner at The Rhydd. Today it was. Still, I thought, if I can just keep going to the Bluebell, I will be OK after that.
Unfortunately (for me) from that point a combination of undulating hills and blustery wind slowed me down even more. The wind blew harder with the worst point at the bottom of Peachfield Road where it nearly stopped me dead. I expected to finish in just under 1.50 but came home in a disappointing 1.52.37, six minutes slower than last year. I blame the conditions! 547 took part in total, well down on 619 of last year and I’ve found 19 MJs on the results. I was disappointed with my effort although I felt better when I found I was 2nd out of 18 in my age group. It seems like old guys have a problem with the wind! MJs Ruth Johnstone did well though finishing second lady.
So I think I’ve had enough of the Acorns Half for now with the 5K looking like a distinct possibility for next year.

From MJ Tina Morgan ... I've posted a few photos of Malvern Joggers (snapped during today's Acorns half marathon) onto Facebook. They are not up to Richard Fletcher's standard though!
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150270019330941.372540.518070940&l=132f99c51
Also, I've added pictures of lots of the other runners on this Flickr site. Hopefully this link can be seen by all.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christinab_public/sets/72157626708778165/

Acorns Spring Run 5K 29/5/11 by Julie Caseley
I've never done this part of the Triple Run before but what a thoroughly enjoyable event it was. I understand in previous years it's been quite challenging with lots of mud but this year it was particuarly dry and quite rutted in places. There were quite a few Malvern Joggers running with little future MJ's, encouraging them and giving great race tactic advice! It was just long enough to be able to finish (25:32) then head off out in the car along the Garlford Road to cheer on Samantha who was doing the Half Marathon and quite a few other MJ's who were passing at the time. Well done everyone who took part on a particularly blustery day.
Thanks, Julie
Crocodile 8, 29/5/11 by Julie Caseley
After my exploits at the Triple Run this morning, I went home, had a snack, picked Samantha up from the Three Counties Showground after her Half Marathon, then motored over to Burghill for the Crocodile 8. The course here is usually pretty muddy too but this year, with the lack of rain, was very firm and only needed trail shoes for extra confidence on the downhill stretches.
The course has remained virtually unchanged since the first race in 1998, run through orchards, woodland trails and country lanes, not forgetting the 13 stiles/kissing gates (not that I was counting) and the 105 step woodland
climb up the "crocodile's back" (didn't count those either)!! All competitors got a t-shirt, fruit, Mars bar and a 2 litre bottle of water then it was off to the Bell Inn just up the road for live music and a BBQ. The presentation was suppose to be a 6pm but eventually took place at 6.45pm -we were almost giving up hope. The results won't be up till Tuesday, but there were great runs from MJ's Jon Green, Ian Dyson and Peter Wilson for the men and Amanda Dawson and Julie Mitchell for the women
- I finished in 1:16:03, just over a minute slower than last year.
Thanks again, Julie

Street Attacker no match for Lady Fell Runner ......
From the Daily Mail ..... A laughing street attacker 'collapsed' after being chased down by woman who turned out to be champion fell runner
When a 24-year-old man tried to leg it from the scene of an assault never did he dream that the woman who gave chase would literally run him into the ground.
For fearlessly following the man who had head-butted her friend was world champion runner Natalie White.
Dressed in just her pyjamas and trainers she pursued the alleged assailant through the hilly streets of Keswick in Cumbria.
Fell runner: Natalie White pursued the alleged assailant through the hilly streets of Keswick in Cumbria
Little did her quarry know it but Keswick was easy meat to Ms White who had just run up and down 42 Lake District peaks in 24 hours.
The 28-year-old who is just 5ft 4in chased and chased until the man collapsed in a heap outside the town's W.H.Smith's store.
More... From now you must jail EVERY burglar, judges will be told
Ms White, a British Fell Running Champion and World Altitude Running champion said: 'I shouted at the man I would get him but he just laughed at me and ran off. He didn't realise it but that was his big mistake.
'He said he would get away from me because I was a girl and clearly did not think someone as small as me was a match for him.
Arrested: Four minutes after the chase began the man was lying breathless on the ground and was swiftly arrested
'But I chased and chased until I wore him down. It lasted about five or six minutes through the steep streets of the town before he finally collapsed outside the shop.
'He was breathless and just gave up,' said Ms White, who lives in Kendall and works for the Lake District Wordsworth Trust.
'I told him "I did tell you I would catch you''.'
Police were called and arrested the man from Bolton, Greater Manchester on suspicion of assault and causing grievous bodily harm.
He was granted police bail as inquiries continue.
The incident started after Miss White and her friend Tim Austin noticed two men climb into Mr Austin's van in the car park of the town's Skiddaw Hotel.
Mr Austin went out to confront the duo who allegedly had poured beer all over the seats.
When he asked them to clean up the mess he was head butted by one of them, breaking his nose and smashing three teeth.
Mr Austin said: ' I was in agony but suddenly I saw Natalie jump out of her camper van shouting I will catch you.
'He just laughed at her. But she got him in the end and she was very brave.'
Ms White added: 'I just grabbed my running shoes and training top. It was the natural thing to do even though my mum and dad say it was stupid. I must be getting a lot harder in my old age.'
Before the incident Ms White had completed a 65 mile run taking in 42 Lake District peaks in 24 hours.
She said: 'Chasing round Keswick was a lot easier than that.'
(Thanks to Andy Dickenson for the above)

Forthcoming Event - Darren’s Dash 12/6/11
From the organiser’s....... Runners from your club have previously competed in the Darrens Dash Hill Race in Longtown. It would be great to see them returning or some new faces at the start line so I wondered whether you could bring the following information and attached entry form to their attention,
"If you are interested in a tough hill race on the Herefordshire / Wales border then please read on.........This will be the 6th running of the Darrens Dash in the Herefordshire village of Longtown. This year the course will be longer and tougher (AM fell race) than ever before comprising 100% off-road running across farmland, tracks, paths and 1,500 ft of ascent on to the beautiful Offa's Dyke path betwixt England and Wales.
The event is a joint promotion between Wye Valley Running Club (organisers of the Muddy Woody 6 race) and Longtown Primary School / Longtown Pre-School. A warm welcome is assured for all the family with a cross-country fun run and other family activities with ample refreshments.

MJs at the Races
Nick Hitchings - A group of MJS are planning a trip to the Races on SATURDAY 4TH JUNE AT Worcester Racecourse for the Ladies Day meeting. Anyone who would like to join us please let me know so we can organise timings etc.
(You can email Nick at .... threecounties@hotmail.com)

Thunder 24hr
From Paul Newman - This event is fast approaching we have two teams of 8 entered to take part on the 30/31 st July this is a Malvern Joggers on tour camping event, (we may need to get T shirts printed Mr Roode) We do have one spare place available if anyone would like to join the 15 other joggers taking part. You would be running as part of a relay team running a maximum of 4 x 10k's in two days. Please drop me a line if you wish to join us. The entry fee for 2 nights camping plus the event is £27.50 can anyone who hasn't paid please let me have a chq please, thanks Paul
paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk

Summer Running – Monthly Rota
1st Wednesday - The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall
2nd Wednesday - Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381)
4th Wednesday - The 3 Kings at Hanley Castle
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only) Meet at 7pm as usual
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn. Please speak to Jayne Ackroyd if you can help.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tue 31/5 Speed Training – Morrisons 5.45pm (every Tuesday until 5/7/11)
Wed 1/6 Club Night - Chase Inn, Upper Colwall 7pm
Sat 4/6 MJs at Worcester Races – contact Nick Hitchings
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Wed 15/6 Malvern Joggers 10K
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Wed 22/6 Cross-Country League - Aconbury
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Wed 6/7 Cross-Country League - Kinnersley
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Wed 20/7 Westhope
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Wed 3/8 Cross-Country League - Shobdon
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 1/10 May Hill Challenge
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, The cheesy one

Chris's Blog from 22 May 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Dunc’s Marathon Challenge
Duncan Cresswell - Well, it’s very nearly here. After nearly 7 months of waiting and preparation, the Forces March begins this Wednesday; 5 days of running at least 26.2 miles over hilly/undulating terrain.
I’ve had the odd anxious moment this week, but mostly I have been really looking forward to it. The only two things that I am dreading are 1) each running day doesn’t start until 11am – I’m sweating buckets in the early hours of the morning let alone lunchtime, and 2) being away from my family – although Jayne’s looking forward to snore-free nights.
Anyway, a big thank you to everyone who has sponsored me or has entered my little competition. The closing date for it was supposed to be today, but I’ll extend it now ‘til Wednesday morning.
Jayne will be at Joggers this Wednesday so you can print off a form from www.duncancresswell.co.uk/5marathons and then give it to her with a cheque that evening, or you can email me your entries and then pay via www.justgiving.com/duncan5marathons . You know you want too ?
You should apparently be able to track my progress at any part of the day, if you so wish, via http://www.racetimingsystems.com/public/default.aspx . It’s supposed to be a brand new live timing system! Hopefully it will work.
So, with pretty much everything packed for my train/bus journey on the Tuesday, I’ll catch up with you all soon. Hopefully at the Chase Inn for some Dragon’s Blood….. can’t wait!

A Few Items from our Chairman Stuart .....
We already have one nomination for Treasurer to take over from Steve Ollis when he retires in a few weeks time. If anyone else is interested please let either the secretary Geoff Field or myself know within the next two weeks.
We should now have enough marshals and helpers for our race on 15th June, but reserve the right to ask again if we lose any volunteers! So we would now like the remaining Joggers to get their race entries in as soon as possible to get plenty of names on the race website.

Please can you let me know if you are planning to run the Acorns Malvern Half Marathon on the 29th May. Stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk

Race Reports
Run in the Park 10k (Southampton) - 15 May 2011 by Julie Caseley
I hadn’t done this race before so I thought I’d give it a whirl. I’d come down with a cold the day before the race so wasn’t expecting great things but I did run as fast as I could whilst puffing around like an old steam train!! It was a 3 lap course around Victoria Park in Southampton (very much like Pitchcroft only a lot prettier).
There were nearly 500 competitors so I thought it may be a tad crowded but once we were underway, there was no
bunching at all with plenty of room for everyone. I was trying not to be lapped but didn’t quite manage it and was overtaken by the 3 lead runners just before the start of my third lap!
Looking at the results from last year, I knew it would be competitive as it was in the Hampshire Road Race League
with virtually all the runners belonging to an athletics/running club so it came as no surprise that I finished 12th FV50 in a time of 50:24 with the first (FV50) coming 5th lady in 40 mins!! The organisation was very slick and the presentation swift and accurate.
Thanks, Julie
Tewkesbury Half Marathon 22/5/11 by Vikki Sivertsen
Due to an injured foot I couldn’t run today so instead decided to join Ron and Rich and become a supporter for the day. It was great to see so much effort and determination from all MJ’s running. Once again loads of PB’s and some great moments..Carolyne Sanders achieving a Sub 1:40 in only her 2nd half marathon, Tony Bennett grinning hugely as he crossed the line, Lyn Hyles putting a spurt on at the end as she heard us cheering her in, the elation on Judes face as she looked up at the clock to see she was well under 2 hours for the first time I believe (eye of the Tiger Jude) Ginny and Jayne waving and holding hands at the finish....and for the first time I got to see Emma Gooderham cross the finish line! I love running and racing but now and again, whether because of injury or not, it’s nice to share in other peoples achievements too. Well done to all who ran in such difficult, windy conditions.
Thanks, Vikksen
Tewkesbury Half Marathon 22/5/11 by Emma Gooderham
Tewkesbury half today was a bit blustery, but felt more for the Edinburgh lot - hope it wasnt as windy there! The start was a bit reserved to say the least. No one wanted to move forward and then all of a sudden the horn blew and we were off, which caught a lot by surprise. I thought it would be delayed as the queues for the loos were long, but they all seemed to clear miraculously at 9.30. The first few miles were a breeze - literally - being pushed along by the wind and I thought wow under 6 min miles!, then we turned and it was a different story. The windiest part was the long 4 mile stretch back into Tewks where I thought I was going backwards at times. However I finished in 1.20.43, a PB by just over 1 and a half mins. Finished first lady and 15th overall. A small goody bag, medal and a £60 voucher for the Travelling Runner was worth it in the end. Then I tried to get home and it took me 20 mins to get through Tewks due to runners - how inconsiderate! Good to see MJ's today, running or not, what an amazing bunch.
Thanks, Emma
Tewkesbury Half Marathon 22/5/11 by Julie Caseley
Having done this race 4 times before, the last time being in 2007, I can't understand why I waited so long to do
it again but having looked in my diaries, I see it was always earlier in the month and clashed with the Crowle 10k. The start was the same as when I last did it but the finish in St. Georges Field was different but great since we didn't have to climb the hill back to the Council Offices!
Running with a chesty cough had it's advantages in that I decided to "jog" round and didn't put any pressure on myself to do a good time although I was hoping to be inside 2 hours. Consequently, I really enjoyed the run which was flatter than I remember it and finished in 1:57:42 (this might be gun time as it was 24 secs slower than my Garmin). Although the weather stayed bright and dry there was a bit of a gusty wind so well done to everyone who finished, especially Emma Gooderham who came 15th and was first female in a time of 1:20:43.
Thanks, Julie
Tewkesbury Half Marathon 22/5/11 by Chris Barker
After a busy time placing MJ race entry forms behind car wiper blades (thanks to Paul Caseley for his help) I just had enough time to place the finishing touches to my Malvern Joggers outfit before running to the start ready for my eleventh attempt of the Tewkesbury Half which was also the scene of my first half marathon in 1996. The good news is, I’m still doing it. The bad news is that I peaked in 2004 which is a long time ago with a PB for the event that makes today’s 1.53.36 (according to their timing!) look a bit slow but still not too bad for a 60-y-o bloke and a bit quicker than the first effort of 15 years ago.
I’d given it a miss for the last few years as it clashed with a few other events in the busy month of May and had got a bit pricey as the organisation of it had been contracted –out instead of being organised by the borough council as was. This was the second of my three half marathons on consecutive Sunday’s and I really expected to go a bit quicker than Hereford the week before given the flatter nature of the course. This was not to be as I come home about 1.5 minutes slower than Hereford. I put this down to having given myself only one rest day, Saturday, instead of two or more. I will learn from this in the run-up to the Acorns next Sunday and we’ll see what happens. I’m sure I’ve got one more sub 1.50 left in me somewhere.
The course took me by surprise as we turned right after about 5 miles. This is the point where I’m used to going straight on and I felt like saying to everyone ‘were going the wrong way’ but I later discovered that this replaces part of the course in the later stages that had lots of twists and turns and narrow pathways so a change for the good.
Thanks to the MJs who had already finished for their support as I crossed the finish line. It was good to see so many of us there. I wasn’t too impressed with the goody bag as it was hard to find a goody in it. It’s difficult to get excited about a bottle of water. I thought a tee-shirt could have been included given the entry fee. Despite that, I enjoyed the event and intend to return next year to make it a dozen and let’s see what I can do at the Acorn’s next week.

Mulberry Tree Required
Lucy Prosser …. Does anyone have a mulberry tree? My daughters school has acquired some silk worms and they need a supply of mulberry leaves for them to produce silk! (and survive I guess!)
If you have a tree in your garden and you don’t mind donating some leaves – please can you give me a shout on 07814 581069

New Fitness Magazine
Bauer Media..... I found your contact information on the Malvern Joggers website and thought this may be of interest to you and your members.
I am contacting you from a company called Bauer Media as we are launching a brand new magazine called Outdoor Fitness . This exciting new magazine is being aimed at groups of people 30+ who stay fit through cycling and running and take part in outdoor based events to challenge themselves.
We are not trying to sell anything, we would just like to offer you and all your members a fantastic opportunity to receive a link to a digital sampler of the new magazine when it is ready in June. We dont require any members information as I would send the link direct to you and you can then forward this onto anyone who would be interested.
For those who are interested, along with the link we are doing a special offer to trial the first 3 issues of the magazine at a reduced cost .
If you and your members are interested in being involved in this opportunity, all we require is your confirmation that you are happy for us to send you the sampler/offer and then forward onto your members when you receive it.
All we would be looking for is feedback from you and your members, they will be able to do this from the webpage should they want to.
If you would like anymore information please don't hesitate to contact me. Hope to hear from you soon.
Kind regards, Maxine Cressey, Bauer Media

MJs Post Marathon Party
This will be on Friday 27th May at Pete and Yvonne Cowling's house from 8pm (69a West Malvern Road. WR14 4NF ) All joggers and partners are welcome, you just need to bring whatever you want to drink and some nibbles. Could the marathon runners please bring their medals for a group photo.

Thunder 24 /30 & 31st July
From Paul Newman - Contrary to rumours going around the Adidas Thunder 24 hour event is DEFINATELY ON !!!!! I've checked by phone and its filling up fast. www.tr24.co.uk We still have one spare place and although a few people have expressed an interest nobody has signed up as yet, a cheque for £27.50 secures your place in the team.
We thought we'd filled the spare place for Oblivion but apparently Ian Laydon is also double booked anyone else fancy a FREE race place ?? come on Sam and Ackers you know you want too !! Please let me know asap !
paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk

After Marathons Party
The social committee have arranged an "After Marathons Party" when all the spring marathons have been completed. Pete and Yvonne Cowling are carrying on the MJ's tradition by agreeing to host the event on Friday 27th May. Everyone is welcome, whether you have run a marathon or not. More details will follow nearer the time.

Summer Running – Monthly Rota
1st Wednesday - The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall
2nd Wednesday - Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381)
4th Wednesday - The 3 Kings at Hanley Castle
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only) Meet at 7pm as usual
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn. Please speak to Jayne Ackroyd if you can help.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tue 24/5 Speed Training – Morrisons 5.45pm (every Tuesday until 5/7/11)
Tue 24/5 Dunc’s Marathon Challenge begins (5 marathons in 5 days)
Wed 25/5 Club Night - Three Kings, Hanley Castle 7pm
Fri 27/5 ‘After Marathons’ Party (all welcome) – Peter & Yvonne’s house
Sun 29/5 Acorns Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Wed 15/6 Malvern Joggers 10K
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Wed 22/6 Cross-Country League - Aconbury
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Wed 6/7 Cross-Country League - Kinnersley
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Wed 20/7 Westhope
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Wed 3/8 Cross-Country League - Shobdon
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 1/10 May Hill Challenge
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, the cheesy one

Chris's Blog from 15 May 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

A Few Items from our Chairman Stuart .....

Many thanks to MJ Cathy Spence who has kindly agreed to take on the role of press officer for the club.

We already have one nomination for Treasurer to take over from Steve Ollis when he retires in a few weeks time. If anyone else is interested please let either the secretary Geoff Field or myself know within the next two weeks.

We should now have enough marshals and helpers for our race on 15th June, but reserve the right to ask again if we lose any volunteers! So we would now like the remaining Joggers to get their race entries in as soon as possible to get plenty of names on the race website.

Please can you let me know if you are planning to run the Acorns Malvern Half Marathon on the 29th May. Stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk

Fell Racing
News from Jon Newey - Two shortish Fell races in two days and not too far to travel.
See www.breconfans.org.uk for details. Lisa Dainty and Richard Love have done these so ask them if you want firsthand accounts of what to expect.
It's multiterrain and starts from the school in Newent as used for the Gloucester Half. It goes through the lanes and off-road to the summit of May Hill using some of the tracks used for the May Hill Massacre.
It's the week before the Beacon Race, so should be good practise for those tuning up for that one. I think the organisers are paying the local Cystic Fibrosis charity to marshall the event. You may know that the May Hill Massacre has raised about £17,000 for this charity over the last five years, but in 2012 it will have new organisers, so it's good to see that some funds will still be raised from another source.
I plan to recce the route in the coming weeks and will report back.
http://www.ajbsportsevents.co.uk/ jonnewey@waitrose.com

Forthcoming Event – The May Hill Challenge 1/10/11
Also from Jon - It's multi-terrain and starts from the school in Newent as used for the Gloucester Half. It goes through the lanes and off-road to the summit of May Hill using some of the tracks used for the May Hill Massacre.
It's the week before the Beacon Race, so should be good practise for those tuning up for that one. I think the organisers are paying the local Cystic Fibrosis charity to marshall the event. You may know that the May Hill Massacre has raised about £17,000 for this charity over the last five years, but in 2012 it will have new organisers, so it's good to see that some funds will still be raised from another source.
I plan to recce the route in the coming weeks and will report back.
http://www.ajbsportsevents.co.uk/

Bacon Buttie Run 21/5/11
With Dunc - I’m planning a Bacon Buttie Run for Saturday 21st May if anyone would like to join me.
It will be mostly off road and run at a very steady pace, with plenty of opportunities for a pause, so all abilities welcome.
Starting from: Putley Green Village Hall ( HR8 2QN ) Time: 8am to begin running at 8:15!
If this takes your fancy, please let me know so that I can make sure there is plenty of food – veggies will be catered for. I can be contacted via email: duncancresswell@btinternet.com
Phone: 0777 400 8720 I need to know by Thursday 18th.

Race Reports
Hereford Half Marathon 15/5/11 by Chris Barker
Where were all the MJs at Hereford this morning? It’s a local-ish race, an interesting course, some passable weather (even if it was a little on the cool side) and good practise for the Acorns in two weeks, but not much green and yellow. There was just the two of us in fact, myself and Claire Gilbert. I introduced myself to Claire forgetting I had put my name on the front of my shirt. No wonder she seemed to know when I told her it was Chris. No shortage of interest otherwise with probably around 500 taking part but no chip timing so best of luck to the organisers sorting the results out. It’s organised to raise funds for St Michael’s hospice and included other attractions such as the ubiquitous bouncy castle. I decided to save my energy for the race.
The course involves a scenic tour of parts of Herefordshire which took us past the venue for the Crocodile 8, much loved by some of our runners. I don’t recommend doing two races in one day though with the Croc 8 being the second. It didn’t work for me.
I’d describe the Hereford Half as undulating and in some places hilly. For some reason I seemed to think all the hills were in the first half but this wasn’t the case so I didn’t get the easier run I thought I’d have in the second. Still, I managed a big improvement on the Droitwich Half in March though as I went round in 1.51, six minutes quicker. Meanwhile Claire finished in an excellent 1.58.
Hopefully all finishers should have received a race t-shirt unlike last year when they ran out. I’ll be ‘halving it’ again at Tewkesbury next Sunday so see you there if your doing that one.

Dunc’s Marathon Challenge - “Guess my times” competition.
It’s very nearly here! In just over 1 week I shall be running The Forces March – 5 marathons in 5 days; an event to raise money for Project 65 – The Veteran’s Charity. It begins in Ilfracombe and finishes at the army camp in Bulford. After each marathon, I’ll have to then pitch up my tent, so no rest for the wicked!
Anyway, to help reach my target of £1000 I have set up a little competition where there are a few prizes up for grabs. All you have to do is guess how long it will take me to run one or more of the marathons and/or a combined time for the whole lot. Individual marathons cost £1 per marathon. Combined time costs £5.
All of the details are on the entry form, which can be printed from www.duncancresswell.co.uk/5marathons
To give you a bit of a help, here are my times from previous marathons:
Shakespeare 3:55, Underround 5:50, Bath Beat 5:32, Midsummer 6:30, Chester 4:13, Wolverhampton 4:03
Gloucester 4:04
The only sting in the tail (apart from all of the hills) as far as I’m aware is that day 3 is nearly 30 miles!
Anyway, top prize is a little hamper of booze and grub (from my own pocket) so it’s worth the guess!
Best of luck, but I have set a deadline of Sunday 22nd May, so don’t ponder for too long ?
Best of luck, Duncan. www.duncancresswell.co.uk

Summer Running – Monthly Rota
1st Wednesday - The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall
2nd Wednesday - Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381)
4th Wednesday - The 3 Kings at Hanley Castle
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only) Meet at 7pm as usual
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn. Please speak to Jayne Ackroyd if you can help.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tue 17/5 Speed Training – Morrisons 5.45pm (every Tuesday until 5/7/11)
Wed 18/5 Club Night - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common 7pm
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Tue 24/5 Dunc’s Marathon Challenge begins (5 marathons in 5 days)
Fri 27/5 ‘After Marathons’ Party (all welcome) – Peter & Yvonne’s house
Sun 29/5 Acorns Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Wed 15/6 Malvern Joggers 10K
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Wed 22/6 Cross-Country League - Aconbury
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Wed 6/7 Cross-Country League - Kinnersley
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Wed 20/7 Westhope
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Wed 3/8 Cross-Country League - Shobdon
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, cheese person

Chris's Blog from 08 May 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

IMPORTANT NOTICE – PARKING AT THE OLD BUSH, CALLOW END ON WEDNESDAY 11th MAY
From Stuart - The pub landlord needs our help on Wednesday because there is a darts match as well as MJ’s meeting at the Old Bush.
So Please:-
Car share on Wednesday to reduce the number of vehicles.
We can only park in the grass field at the back of the pub, so best leave the sports car at home.
Please only use the front door to go into the pub to avoid walking past the darts board.
Thanks for your help, Stuart

Thunder 24 / Oblivion
From Paul Newman - Contrary to rumours going around the Adidas Thunder 24 hour event is DEFINATELY ON !!!!! I've checked by phone and its filling up fast. www.tr24.co.uk We still have one spare place and although a few people have expressed an interest nobody has signed up as yet, a cheque for £27.50 secures your place in the team.
We thought we'd filled the spare place for Oblivion but apparently Ian Laydon is also double booked anyone else fancy a FREE race place ?? come on Sam and Ackers you know you want too !! Please let me know asap !
paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk

New Speed Training programme
Jayne Ackroyd - Now that the Paris, London and Boston marathons are complete, and the Edinburgh marathoners are on their final taper, its time to start the next speed training programme!
So a new programme of speed sessions will start on Tuesday 10th May, and it will be a 9 week programme, targeted at the Evesham 10k on 10th July.
All welcome, so if you missed out last time, now is your chance to join in!
We will meet at 5:45 on Tuesday at Morrisons, as usual. See you there

Running Free
From Grouty - Please excuse the immodesty, but you might like to have a laugh at my expense - there's a ghastly picture of me in the magazine 'Running Free' in the Bath Half in my Macmillan green hair, facepaint and tutu which Megz spotted on Page 40 at:
http://content.yudu.com/Library/A1rpaz/RunningFreeApril2011/resources/index.htm?referrerUrl=
For all you gentle joggers and fun runners it just goes to show you don't have to be a proper runner to be in a running magazine....

Annabel’s Charity Challenge
Hi everyone. I am not doing any running to fundraise unlike all our wonderful marathon fundraisers but next weekend I am climbing 3 Welsh mountains in 36 hours to raise money for Tros Gynnal which is the leading Children's Rights and advocacy charity in Wales. I am rubbish at hills as many of you will know so it will be quite an arduous challenge. We start at 3.00 am on Saturday morning IN THE DARK and finish on Sunday lunchtime (with one sleep in between). If anybody would like to sponsor me I would be extremely grateful (as would Tros Gynnal). Here is the link to my sponsorship page:
http://www.justgiving.com/Annabel-Jeffery
Thanks very much xx Annabel

Race Reports
Crowle 10K 8/5/11 by Alison Merley
It was my third time at this race and an increased field of 650 or so runners including lots of Malvern Joggers (too many to count!). The weather looked a bit dodgy with a heavy shower half an hour or so before the race but right on cue the sun came out at 11.30 and the conditions for the race were pretty good apart from a fairly strong wind which helped the runners on the way out but hindered them on the way back. I set off at a fairly strong pace (for me anyway) with Carolyne Sanders beside me, we ran together until about 4k when I just couldn’t keep up and started regretting my early pace. I remember this race as slightly undulating but today it seemed positively hilly particularly over the last 3k! I was very relieved to see the playing field until I remembered we had to run all the way around it before crossing the finish line. I finished in 46:14 a few seconds slower than last year. Age taking its toll or maybe it was trying to keep up with Carolyne in the early stages that did it!
Both the men’s and the women’s course records were broken. The first man was about a minute and a half in front of the rest of the field, an incredible performance! Our own Emma Gooderham had an awesome run to break the ladies record. There were some great performances from lots of the Joggers with many of them taking prizes:
First Lady: Emma Gooderham
Third Lady: Ruth Johnstone (in a PB I think)
First Lady Vet 45: Vikki Sivertsen
Third Lady Vet 45: Me!!
Third Lady Vet 50: Lynn Hiles (a PB by a couple of minutes!)
Second Male Vet 50: Jon Green (there are some positives to hitting 50!)
Third Male Vet 60: Phil Jackson (another PB ?)
There was a bit of a muddle up with the results, with Vikki and I being listed as V40 not V45s (if only! Must be because we look so young?!). We were quick to point out the mistake. The race organisers knew better than to mess with two indignant Malvern Joggers and duly handed over our prizes.
Forgive me if I’ve missed anyone out, there were lots of other great performances today with Libby Sharp (in her first race) crossing the line before her mum!
Anyway, well done to everyone who took part, a good day for the Joggers!
Thanks, Alison
Crowle 10K 8/5/11 by Sarah Grout
Two years ago, how time has flown, the Crowle 10K was my first ever running event, and so this was to be a pilgrimage - and now my third Crowle - I can't imagine missing it now. I was just as nervous third time round. Well organised, friendly and with a wonderful field of runners. Superbly well supported by Malvern Joggers, and the organisers understand and appreciate our brilliant support. They were in awe of Emma Gooderham's participation and gave her an excellent accolade and welcome in their introductions.
The weather played tricks with us - would it be torrential rain? It drizzled beforehand, but actually it turned out to be really rather warm. The buzz from the Malvern Joggers, and in fact everybody I have ever known in my limited running context from Worcestershire, was there.
On a personal level I was on a mission to beat my friend Russell, a fellow hockey player, an ex-marine and ex-army man, who ran in uniform, with boots and a 30lb backpack for Help for Heroes - goodness knows I couldn't let him beat me.... and so it was that I achieved not a PB, but a course PB, by 5 minutes, to complete in 1:01:44. He got through in 1:04:30 - a brilliant achievement. I could hardly lift his rucksack afterwards - we have no idea what it's like really.
I attempted something new this year, called a 'sprint finish' - Grout style - it involves my arms pumping away furiously, my face gurning and my pit pony legs doing diddly-squit. And so it was that I introduced myself to St John's Ambulance just past the finish line with a minor vomit. Vikki informs me that qualifies me as a proper runner. I'm honoured.....
Well done to our tremendous team of MJ's - so proud of you all.
Thanks, Grouty
Crowle 10K 8/5/11 by Emma Gooderham
Lovely run today at Crowle. After a lazy Saturday I was raring to go with this one and wanted to see how fast I could do a quick road race as I haven't done a road 10k since august 2009. I well and truly dusted off the cobwebs, as I set a PB of 36.04, knocking off 41 seconds from my PB set in Evesham 10k in 2009. I also set a new course record. My previous run at Crowle was back in 2007 when I came in first lady in 39.17. I was 4th overall in this years race. What made it again though was the many happy faces of Malvern Joggers, who were out in abundance today. My husband also did the race and he was so impressed with the Malvern Joggers he also wants to join (but I think he also wants to join because of the kit as he is a Norwich City Supporter and they are also yellow and green, and he was impressed with the kit today). These races would not be the same without the 'team' spirit and it was a shame that they didn’t have a team trophy today, but I think Malvern Joggers won on support and being the best club anyway. Well done to all other joggers out there, we picked up quite a few trophies and everyone seemed to run well today.
Thanks, Emma
Mudrunner 8/5/11 by Paul Newman
Whilst most Malvern Joggers were going for the easier Crowle 10k, the Malvern Joggers hardcore team attempted OBLIVION ...!! This race is a 10k combined with 10 inhumane obstacles ! Mud runner had kindly supplied the club with 3 free places which were taken by a very nervous Kareen Mann, Jude Newman and last minute replacement Jon Pickering. These guys were joined by Sophie Blanford, Bradley Crouch, my daughter Gemma and myself as well as a number of Hashers. I bumped into the organiser Kes Wilkinson at the start, he kindly allowed us to put race fliers in the registration tent or on cars and really plugged our Malvern Joggers 10k race to the 1500 runners on a few different occasions
The course starts in the Deer park at Eastnor and begins with a steep climb to the obelisk from there it joins the tracks normally reserved for Land Rover testing, some of these were artificially filled with water some parts waist deep, from there we climbed crawled and swam the length of the course that finished with monkey bars and two swims across the lakes in the Deer park.
I was particularly worried how the ladies would take to all the wallowing, but I shouldn't have because they all were beaming from ear to ear everyone loved it and we've all said we will be back for Mudrunner in October. www.mudrunner.co.uk
Thanks, Paul
Shakespheare Marathon 8/5/11 by Jayne Cresswell
I have been very nervous about running this marathon for a very long time, in fact I only confessed to running it about 3 weeks ago so that if I felt like pulling out no one would have known. Yes I know I have run London so knew I could do the distance within the time cut off of six hours but after years of being bullied at school for being fat and useless at any sport the idea of any sport petrifies me. Training hadn’t gone well, lack of time and a knee problem had not allowed me to prepare properly but I was going to go for it anyhow.
The course is a two lap one with the first lap being run with those who are running the half, and a slightly longer second lap. I found the course hilly but Duncan will tell you otherwise and by nine miles my knee was screaming at me. The temptation to just run the half marathon was then with me until mile 12 where we then separate off from the half runners. What also didn’t help was the fact that around that point there were a lot of people cheering you on telling you only another mile to go – I felt like crying. But I made the decision to continue with the marathon and gritted my teeth and counted the minutes until I could have some more painkillers. By now we had lost the groups of runners but all throughout the second lap there was either someone to catch up with or someone passing you, some friendly some lost in their own little world. At around mile 24 a mature lady caught me up and said we would finish together, she also had her husband with her who cycled alongside us. They were both very supportive and it is due to their kindness that I was able to run majority of the last 2 miles. I finished in 5:20, not a fantastic time but I did it.
Downsides:
Not being able to get behind the barriers at the start as people weren’t moving down.
The lack of roadside support, no London supporters here.
The long drag along the causeway and the fact I kept getting grit in my shoes
The busy road that we had to run along, majority of which was done with a lorry load of portaloos that had been collected from the start.
Upsides:
Support from other runners
The enormous cheer from the Macmillan ladies at around mile 12 and 25, gosh they’ve got some lungs on them
High number of water stations
Would I do it again? Ask me tomorrow
Thanks, Jayne
Shakespheare Marathon 8/5/11 by Duncan Cresswell
This was my first ever marathon 2 years ago, and despite a hot day then, I somehow fluked a 3:55:30 time. I entered it this year to improve on that.
However, having run long hilly runs at a slower pace in prep for the Forces March in just over 2 weeks time (3 weeks today it will all be over! – www.justgiving.com/duncan5marathons ) I decided in my head to give myself 10 miles. I ran the first 10 as if I was aiming for a PB and then decide whether or not to continue or slow down. Due to the muggy heat and then full on sunshine, I decided to conserve my energy and just plod along, which was very enjoyable. I was able to chat to people, spend nearly 3 minutes under a hose pipe courtesy of 3 girls in a garden, and just take in some scenery. I had a good push during the final 3 miles from a runner who I met at Gloucester marathon. It was a bit of déjà vu, as we met then around the 22/23 mile mark. As a result, I got 4:14:44. It was a bit slower than I wanted, even for a plod, but I had fun and I’m sure it would have been 4:20 had I not been pushed in the final 3. I shall return for another outing here as it is a nice race (I didn’t even mind the 6 ish mile long greenway this year) and hopefully a sub 3:55. You get a medal, banana and bottle of water as the entry fee (of as much as possible) is for charity. The only thing that lets it down is the start as there is quite a lot of pushing, shoving and dodging for the first mile or two. Oh well, 5 in a row next!... what have I done!!!!!!!!!!!
PS
I was hoping to get to joggers this week to hand out competition forms and to have a beer or two, but unfortunately won’t be able to make it now, so if anyone would still like to have a crack at it, the form can be downloaded from www.duncancresswell.co.uk/5marathons . Entries at this present moment in time stand at 4. Plenty of chance to win something back from your entry fee (which will be from my own pocket and not from entry fees) so why not have a go?
Thanks to the people who have entered already and to those of you who have donated to my just giving site.
See you all soon and enjoy the party in a couple of weeks time! I’ll be stocking the wine rack soon for my return….bliss ?
Thanks, Dunc
Malvern Hill Ultra Marathon – Sat 7th May 2011 by Sim Foreman
The Chairman and I were the official unofficial MJ relay team in the second running of the Malvern Hills Ultra marathon. Unofficial in that we were a team of 2 we were not allowed to win, however this acted as a massive driver for us to show that our disadvantage would work to our advantage! I was running legs 1, 3 and 5 with Stuart running 2, 4 and 6, Stuart was ensured on my car and we roughly had a plan around handover so off we went.
The race set off at 0900 from Holt Castle (complete with suits of armour and giant stuffed bear) down to Diglis. I tucked in behind some full distance (53 mile race) runners until we got onto the Severn Way before leaving them behind once I knew I could not get lost. This paid off as I got the first checkpoint a couple of minutes ahead of them, The first chink in the MJ Ultra’s armour appeared here as Stuart was at the Diglis Hotel and the checkpoint had moved to Diglis Lock, and it had tipped down leaving Stuart and I soaked to the skin. Stuart met for brief handover in Diglis new build area before he got to the checkpoint picked up his number and set off for Severn Stoke. Stuart made up some the time lost and appeared looking fresh to handover to me about 1130. I should add here MJs that doing a relay meant that we had the benefit of fresh kit at each check point which made the world of difference!
During Stuart’s leg down the Severn to the Rose and Crown the sun came out and it became very humid, so when I left the checkpoint I quickly realised I would melt in my skins and long sleeved top, so had to get down the MJ vest and crack on through Upton and Welland to the Malvern Hills hotel. Stuart set off for leg to conquer the hills and drop down the New Inn at Storridge. At this checkpoint I bumped into Grouty for a chat and she was having deserved beer following her leg of a team event.
The fresh kit benefits again paid during leg 4 as Stuart pegged back some of the runners, making good time to handover to me for leg 5, Storridge to Martley on the Worcestershire Way. Having never run around there before I was surprised at the hills, taking these steady as I did not know how many there would be. Whilst starting to tire on this leg I reminded myself that I was only doing 29 or so miles (with breaks) and that my usual training partner, Chris Lewis-Farley, was running all 53 miles! I arrived in the sunshine at the Crown in Martley And Stuart set off for the final 7-8 miles after telling me the winner had finished the 53 mile race. After a lager shandy I drove to Holt Castle to the finish to se the winner looking fresh, eating pasta and relaxing having run 53 miles in 8h 10m!
I awaited the arrival of my team mate and was delighted to see him finish strongly (see pic) and give us a team time of about 9h 30. I then awaited Chris L-F and he finished in a fantastic 11h59m14s.
This was a great event, albeit long, and although the MJ team were not allowed to win I was advised that we were the first team to finish. I hope that next year we can get a full team and take some silverware at this event!
Thanks, Sim
Stroud Beer Race – Wed 4th May by Sim Foreman
My kind of event; £4 entry fee, start at pub, finish at pub and get given beer! Oh and run 7 and bit miles (7.12M) around a 3 lap course of Michinhampton Common. This included a hill that a few were complaining about, but to be honest MJs, in was not a patch on our hills! I finished in 49m 13s in 17th place (field of 80). Delighted to get my first PB at this random distance! Recommend the event but recognise a bit of a mid-week trek. Sorry for punch report, my creative juices ran dry describing the Ultra!
Thanks again, Sim

Dunc’s Marathon Challenge - “Guess my times” competition.
It’s very nearly here! In just over 2 weeks I shall be running The Forces March – 5 marathons in 5 days; an event to raise money for Project 65 – The Veteran’s Charity. It begins in Ilfracombe and finishes at the army camp in Bulford. After each marathon, I’ll have to then pitch up my tent, so no rest for the wicked!
Anyway, to help reach my target of £1000 I have set up a little competition where there are a few prizes up for grabs. All you have to do is guess how long it will take me to run one or more of the marathons and/or a combined time for the whole lot. Individual marathons cost £1 per marathon. Combined time costs £5.
All of the details are on the entry form, which can be printed from www.duncancresswell.co.uk/5marathons
To give you a bit of a help, here are my times from previous marathons:
Shakespeare 3:55, Underround 5:50, Bath Beat 5:32, Midsummer 6:30, Chester 4:13, Wolverhampton 4:03
Gloucester 4:04
The only sting in the tail (apart from all of the hills) as far as I’m aware is that day 3 is nearly 30 miles!
Anyway, top prize is a little hamper of booze and grub (from my own pocket) so it’s worth the guess!
Best of luck, but I have set a deadline of Sunday 22nd May, so don’t ponder for too long ?
Best of luck, Duncan. www.duncancresswell.co.uk

MJ 10K Race. We still need lots more MJ’s to volunteer for marshalling and other jobs for our race on Wednesday evening 15th June. Please e-mail stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk if you can help.

Our Treasurer is standing down. Steve Ollis is standing down as MJ Treasurer after the next committee meeting in June. Steve has worked really hard on behalf of the club, looking after the finances since he took over from Alison. We are really grateful for all his help.

Nominations for Treasurer required. If you are interested in this position on the committee please e-mail Geoff Field or me to express an interest. We hope to elect a new treasurer to take over as soon as Steve retires.

Publicity/Press Officer. We are looking for someone to take on the responsibility of liaising with local press and radio to promote the club and get race reports into the Malvern Gazette etc. following on from Jon Newey who did this for us on an informal basis. Talk to Geoff or Stuart if you are interested.

Malvern Joggers 10K Race
Marshals and other helpers needed. Preparations are well underway for the Malvern Joggers 10k Race on Wednesday evening 15th June. We need volunteers to help with marshalling, registration, drinks stations, car parking and this year catering as well. Please will you send an e-mail to stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk or a text to 07880-748187 if you can help and let Stuart know if you fancy a particular job. We will let as many MJ’s do the race as possible but our first priority is to put on a well organised and well marshalled race so we hope you will volunteer.
stuart.brown37@btopenworld.com

Summer Running – Monthly Rota
1st Wednesday - The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall
2nd Wednesday - Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381)
4th Wednesday - The 3 Kings at Hanley Castle
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only) Meet at 7pm as usual
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn. Please speak to Jayne Ackroyd if you can help.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tue 10/5 Speed Training – Morrisons 5.45pm (every Tuesday until 5/7/11)
Wed 11/5 Club Night - The Bush pub, Callow End 7pm
Sun 15/5 Hereford Half Marathon
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Tue 24/5 Dunc’s Marathon Challenge begins (5 marathons in 5 days)
Fri 27/5 ‘After Marathons’ Party (all welcome) – Peter & Yvonne’s house
Sun 29/5 Acorns Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Wed 15/6 Malvern Joggers 10K
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

And please remember.......
MJ 10K Race. We still need lots more MJ’s to volunteer for marshalling and other jobs for our race on Wednesday evening 15th June. Please e-mail stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk if you can help.

Happy running, cheese everyone

Chris's Blog from 01 May 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Some messages/announcements from Stuart B..........

MJ 10K Race. We still need lots more MJ’s to volunteer for marshalling and other jobs for our race on Wednesday evening 15th June. Please e-mail stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk if you can help.

Malvern Ultra. The organisers are looking for replacement runners for a number of legs of this race around the county next Saturday. If you can help, Google ‘Malvern Ultra’ to contact the organisers or have a word with Sarah Grout or Sheila Jackson.

Dunc’s Marathon Challenge - “Guess my times” competition.
It’s very nearly here! In just over 3 weeks I shall be running The Forces March – 5 marathons in 5 days; an event to raise money for Project 65 – The Veteran’s Charity. It begins in Ilfracombe and finishes at the army camp in Bulford. After each marathon, I’ll have to then pitch up my tent, so no rest for the wicked!
Anyway, to help reach my target of £1000 I have set up a little competition where there are a few prizes up for grabs. All you have to do is guess how long it will take me to run one or more of the marathons and/or a combined time for the whole lot. Individual marathons cost £1 per marathon. Combined time costs £5.
All of the details are on the entry form, which can be printed from www.duncancresswell.co.uk/5marathons
To give you a bit of a help, here are my times from previous marathons:
Shakespeare 3:55, Underround 5:50, Bath Beat 5:32, Midsummer 6:30, Chester 4:13, Wolverhampton 4:03
Gloucester 4:04
The only sting in the tail (apart from all of the hills) as far as I’m aware is that day 3 is nearly 30 miles!
Anyway, top prize is a little hamper of booze and grub (from my own pocket) so it’s worth the guess!
Best of luck, but I have set a deadline of Sunday 22nd May, so don’t ponder for too long ?
Best of luck, Duncan. www.duncancresswell.co.uk

Malvern Joggers Junior section:
From Andy Dickenson - First meeting of interested parties will take place after Wed club run at about 8.15 pm. We will be joined by Matt Granger of Hereford and Worcestershire Athletics Network. I hope we will be able to agree a few basic aims and talk through the issues related to running with young people. Hope to see as many as possible, Many thanks, Andy Dickenson

Race Reports
Bushley Green Streets Mile 25/4/11 by Chris Barker
A one mile race! I always said I wouldn’t put my running kit on for less than 5K and here I am running a one mile race. So what happened?
Well, it was a Bank Holiday Monday and I like to do something with my precious days of work and in the absence of anything else I went along to do this. Organised by Tewkesbury AC, there is the fun run and a main event which are both over the same course. It’s a run along a fairly straight, tree-lined route to the finish at the cricket pitch/village green at Bushley, near Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire,.
Severn AC were probably running one of their events on the same day but I’ve done those before and found the pace a bit hot which turned out to be the case in this one also.
First it was a jog or walk over the entire course down to the start from the finish. Then run like mad up the slightly inclined lane and round the corner to the finish. It’s amazing how quickly it’s over but when going flat out you don’t want it to last too long. In a field of 36 which also included MJ Nick Hitchings, I did my usual thing of starting at the back and overtaking as many as possible until I stagnate and can’t make any further progress. Also, I found it’s no good thinking you are going to wear any other runners down in a race that’s over this quick.
I timed my effort at 6.59 for 30th place although the results show 7.15 so take your pick. Nick proved that the MJs have got at least one good runner by finishing 5th in a time of 5.21
Following this event, over the same course, was the fun run which consisted of a few ‘more serious’ runners and some mums, dads and kids but for those at the front it more competitive than fun. There were 58 runners in total. The same time in this one would have given 8th place! Sounds better than 30th, doesn’t it? London 2012, It’ll be Bushley 2012 for me!
Centurion Grand Prix 5 mile - 1 May 2011 by Julie Caseley
This race was postponed from December last year when the course was too dangerous due to ice. I turned up for
the race in December on a lovely sunny, crisp morning 1 hours' drive away – the moral of this story is, if in doubt, always check the event website or phone the organisers in advance. Today’s event was the last of a series of 6 organised by Centurion Running Club and couldn’t have been more different with warm, sunny conditions and a slight breeze. There was a 10 minute walk from Race HQ at John Henry Newman Catholic College, Solihull to the start. The course was run on footpaths through flat, traffic free parkland consisting of one small loop followed by 2 larger loops to form the 5 mile course. The conditions were fantastic, and although I did do a bit of “drafting” on my second lap, I overtook him and managed to catch and overtake the only other female runner in sight.
There were prizes for the first 5 male and female runners as well as the first 3 in the over 50 male/female age
category (the other 5 races covered the other age categories). Being the last of the series, there were also trophies for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd seniors and veterans overall as well as spot prizes together with junior prizes. I was 6th female, finishing 5 seconds slower than my previous outing in December 2009 in a time of 40:40 to win 1st female vet 50 and a £20 voucher to spend at Sutton Runner.
Thanks, Julie

Forthcoming Events
The British 10K London Run 10 July 2011
From Jon Green - My sister is a Community Fundraiser for the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity and she has a number of charity places available in this race. If your interested in running for Helen Rollason the commitment is to pay the 35 race fee and raise a minimum of 200. The closing date is 24 June. The only person registered to run for Helen Rollason so far is Sophie Raworth (yes, her off the telly!). Contact me if you want more information. Cheers Jonathan (green.jonathan@virgin.net).
Monmouth Half Marathon
http://race-calendar.com/whitebrook-wind-up-half-marathon-monmouth-wales-uk-sunday-22nd-may-2011/10310

A Request from Ginny.......
Is there anybody who would like to lead the 9 30 m group on Wed 5th May from The Chase ?
ginnysharp@btinternet.com

Stratford half marathon place available
Andy Lyon has a Stratford upon Avon Half Marathon place for the 8th May if anyone would like it.
andy.lyon@virgin.net

A Useful race Finder
http://race-calendar.com/about

Crowle 10K Post-Race Barbecue 8/5/11
Geoff & Jenny Field would like to invite any Joggers who are running in the Crowle 10K (and their families) to come back to their place for a barbecue after the race on 8 May. Bring something to throw on the barbie and something to drink. Salads and pudding will be provided.
The address is The Lodge, Back Lane, Malvern WR14 2HJ (next-door to Waitrose). Please let Geoff or Jenny know if you are going, so they can get some idea of numbers. Tel: 01684 578652, or e-mail geoff.field@lineone.net"

Hydration Back Packs
Sarah Grout - I still have a few Hydration Back Packs for sale at £12 if anyone is interested. Great for the Malvern Midsummer Marathon and similar events! £2 of this goes as a donation to Macmillan Cancer Support. Let me know if you are interested and I will bring one along to MJs on Weds night. Email me on sarahsgrout@aol.com

Summer Running – Monthly Rota
1st Wednesday - The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall
2nd Wednesday - Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381)
4th Wednesday - The 3 Kings at Hanley Castle
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only) Meet at 7pm as usual
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn. Please speak to Jayne Ackroyd if you can help.

Malvern Ultra 2011
From Stuart Brown - Steve Ollis and I would like your support to enter a team or two from Malvern Joggers for the second running of this event. It’s a team relay over 50+ miles to raise money for ‘Help for Heroes’. The date is Saturday 7th May so fits in well for those that will have done the London marathon and those that will be doing Edinburgh. There are six stages and the route is exactly the same as last year and the good news is it starts at 9.00 am, so that last leg should arrive mid evening. The route is:
Top Barn to Diglis Hotel 6.6 miles, Diglis to Rose & Crown, Severn Stoke 9.58 mile
Crown to Malvern Hills Hotel 11.6 miles, MHH to New Inn, Storridge 6.6 miles
New Inn to Crown Inn Martley 9.93 miles, Martley to Holt Castle 7.43 miles
The team relay costs £35 per person but remember it is for a fantastic cause. For more details Google Malvern Hills Ultra. If you would like to join the MJ Ultra team, talk to Steve O or Stuart B
Following the amazing £2,700 raised last year the target for Malvern Ultra 2011 is £5,000. All (100%) the money goes to Help for Heroes, there’s no profit making from the fundraising or any administration charges taken away.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 4/5 Club Night - Chase Inn, Upper Colwall 7pm
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K and Jenny & Geoff’s post-Crowle 10K BBQ
Sun 8/5 Shakespeare Marathon
Sun 8/5 Mudrunner Oblivion - Eastnor
Sun 15/5 Hereford Half Marathon
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Tue 24/5 Dunc’s Marathon Challenge begins (5 marathons in 5 days)
Fri 27/5 ‘After Marathons’ Party (all welcome) – Peter & Yvonne’s house
Sun 29/5 Acorns Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Wed 15/6 Malvern Joggers 10K
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, cheese everyone

Chris's Blog from 24 April 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Malvern Joggers Proposed Junior Section
From Andy Dickenson - I am looking into the feasibility of starting a junior section for Malvern Joggers. My thoughts so far are along the lines of entering for the Gloucestershire Cross Country League since they have a well developed structure for all age groups and will give the runners something to aim at.
To develop the club in this direction will need a few of us to be committed to some coaching qualifications and of course be prepared to help run sessions when we get off the ground. There is a lot of thinking to do around this and I would appreciate as many ideas and contributions as possible. I have contacted the local section of England Athletics who will help and support us in this work and I hope to have a meeting with their representative soon.
If you are interested in getting involved in helping this development please will you email me at dickensons@btinternet.com . I hope to convene a meeting of interested parties in the near future. I am hoping we have enough enthusiasm in the town for us to get some teams out in the Autumn - if you have some potential runners at home can you let me know?
Best wishes, Andy Dickenson.

Mud Runner Oblivion and Thunder 24hr
Two from Paul Newman ......
MudRunner Oblivion- As you will recall the organisers have given the club 3 free places for this event, we have balloted the members for the places and the winners are.....drum roll please .. Mark Cooke, Jude Newman (no fix, promise!) and Kareen Mann. The winners have been notified. Entries for this event close on May 1st.
Thunder 24 hour - this event is fast approaching we have two teams of 8 entered to take part on the 30/31 st July this is a Malvern Joggers on tour camping event, (we may need to get T shirts printed Mr Roode) We do have one spare place available if anyone would like to join the 15 other joggers taking part. You would be running as part of a relay team running a maximum of 4 x 10k's in two days. Please drop me a line if you wish to join us. The entry fee for 2 nights camping plus the event is £27.50 can anyone who hasn't paid please let me have a chq please, thanks Paul
paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk

London Marathon 2011 – 17/4/11
Sarah Grout
In 2010 I undertook a challenge to complete 20 races and 200 miles to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. A series of family crises from early October meant I was forced to stop at 15 events,168 miles, having raised £3689. And so I decided to pick up and try to finish the challenge with a second London Marathon as part of a 100 mile total in race miles, and a new £2,500 target to celebrate Macmillan's centenary year in 2011. My 2011 challenge has been made thoroughly rewarding and entertaining thanks to the support of my Gentle Jogger friends and the amazing training partnership I have had with Jo Haynes. We have trained together solidly since December, kept each other motivated and chivvied each other through our various crises of confidence. When it came to the London Marathon that partnership put us in excellent stead for getting a most rewarding experience from the race. Jo and I were never going to break any records in terms of our pace! - ours was primarily a test of our stamina and a fundraising challenge. We determined to complete the run without injury and as a tribute and dedication to some people we hold very dear. We held together for 24 miles, only to separate briefly for the last little bit, but it added enormously to the enjoyment of the event to have that support alongside me and someone to share the many and colourful memories of the day. Jo and I were hugely grateful to our wonderful band of supporters, not just our dear families, but to Jenny Field and Sheila Jackson, who took the time and trouble to build a mascot (!) and to travel to London to be there for us. What a difference it made to see and hear them cheering us on at quite so many points. And finally a huge thank you to those Malvern Joggers who have supported me through attending my marathon fundraising events and with their generous sponsorship to help me towards my target, and ultimately to help people affected by cancer.

The following is a section from the News Release about the London Marathon although unfortunately the Gazette didn't include everyone's times as requested:
A huge field of 14 Malvern Joggers took on the London Marathon in 20 degrees of heat last Sunday - one of the hottest days in the race's history. First Malvern Jogger under the finishing arch was Emma Gooderham with a time of 2:53:37, with club chairman Stuart Brown completing the course in 3:28:12. Many of the Malvern Joggers faced marathon fundraising challenges in addition to coping with the 26.2 mile course and an early tally shows that about £14,000 has been raised by Malvern Joggers for charity from their marathon efforts alone, including £2,390 by Sarah Grout for Macmillan Cancer Support, Jo Haynes £2324 for Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund and Mark Cooke's £1500 for the Mental Health Foundation.
Stuart Brown said "the London Marathon is a wonderful event and running it is a fantastic achievement whatever your time. Congratulations to everyone who took part and thanks to all our supporters who make it so special."
Other finishing times for London were:
Andrew Scott 3:21:01, Steve Roode 4:03:08, Jo Haynes 5:20:30, Sarah Grout 5:14:55, Catriona Robinson 5:05:17
Mark Cooke 5:05:45, Vikki Sivertsen 3:42:11, Kareen Mann 3:56:40, Jenny Mann 4:57:13, Simeon Foreman 3:33:16
Tony Knight 4:17:06, Keith Ruff 4:18:43
Thanks, Sarah

Emma Gooderham
I did the London marathon - surprise!! Finally my leg is on the mend. With accupuncture, intense physiotherapy and much taping on the day (highly recommended - got it done at the expo and I think it really helped). The day went really well. As usual I got very nervous at the start but seeing some friendly faces including Steve Roode really helped. Apprehensive wasn't the word when I started, I had no idea how it would go as my longest race for well over a year has been 5 miles. As usual from the off I felt restriction in my hamstring and a dull ache, which I hoped would not get worse. It was this though that I am now thankful as I think it slowed me down and not do crazy 6 min miles at the start. I did feel like stopping at 6 miles as the ache in my backside is not nice at times, but as everything else starts to work hard as well and you get into the swing of things, it gets more tolerable. It made me do the first half in 1.27.28. The hamstring and hip still ached slightly but didnt get any worse. The rest of me felt fresh, so I gradually pushed in the second half, so much so that my fastest mile split was at mile 25 in 6.16 and I recorded my first ever negative split. It was always in the back of my mind that I may do more damage to my leg, although my physio reassured me that I wouldn't if I didn't go too crazy - so my dilemma, how much do you push it when you feel OK at mile 22? I finished in 2.53.37, only a minute and 25 seconds outside my PB on this course. My race couldnt have been better. I was smiling all the way and why? Because I missed out last year and every step this year I was greatful of that second chance. The crowds were amazing this year and as ever I was in awe of everything. I feel so privaleged to be part of such a fantastic event. The malvern Joggers support teams along the course really kept me going, every time I saw them, I forgot the ache in my butt for a while! And recovery? Well with an ice bath and more taping things are looking good. Finally the cobwebs have been dusted off and I have my confidence back. I know I have a way to go, but hopefully with some nicely corrected hips and that last bit of scar tissue nearly gone, I'll be racing more for my club. Well done to all other MJ's out there. As usual the commaraderie meant so much and again I am honoured to wear the MJ logo.
Thanks, Emma

Vikki Sivertsen
Had the heart, soul and ‘central governor’ all switched on, unfortunately I also had the cramp. Was it the heat? I don’t know. I started in the ‘green good for age’ start, pen 3, the celebrities were in pen 1, so I got to see them all before we started...shame I hardly recognised anybody! I had planned and practiced my race, it was to be 7.40 min miles for the first 13, and then see what happens. Well, 7.40 min miles to mile 15 was a breeze and then the Devil cramp attacked my right calf muscle. I stopped to stretch, then walked, then jogged, then walked then stretched and repeated this pattern for several miles. By the time I had reached mile 20 I realised a PB was long gone, so when I saw several people offering massage I thought I may as well give it a try. I lay down expecting a deep tissue massage ‘A la Neil Williamson’ but instead got 6 or 7 minutes worth of gentle relaxation from a very large man with ‘church of the scientologists’ embroidered on his T-shirt ! This helped for about a mile but the cramp returned until the end of the race. Luckily I spotted Ron in the crowd so was able to let him know I would be later finishing than planned. I finished in 3:42:11, which all things considered I shouldn’t be too disappointed with, especially as it was such a fantastic day. The crowds were amazing, after running Paris and Berlin, London wins the Gold medal for support. Incredible. The feeling I got from running over Tower Bridge with thousands of people cheering will live with me forever. I saw Ron, Fran Scott and family 3 times, I met 2 Black pear joggers, one of whom kindly gave me a couple of Ibuprofen! Monty Halls (TV presenter) shook my hand! (swoon!) And best of all Dave Bedford gave me a personal shout out at mile 25! Absolutely cracking day, hope to be back next year.
Thanks, Vikki

Stuart Brown
I travelled to the start hassle free with friends from Ware Joggers on their club coach and was dropped off near the start at about 7.00. At that time there were was no waiting for the toilets and plenty of time to Vaseline all the necessary places, apply 2 doses of sun screen and have a single cup of tea, too much to drink at this stage and I’d have to stop during the race. I saw Sim, Tony Knight and Andy Scott at the blue start and went into pen three 10 minutes before the start with Andy agreeing to run our own races.
It took me less than a minute to cross the start and I set off with the intention of running at 8 min/mile pace and settled into a steady pace. When the blue start merged at three miles I found myself a few metres behind Vikki and realised I’d been going faster than I intended. I ignored my first thought to slow down and decided to stick with her as long as I could. So without saying anything to her I tucked in behind and let her set the pace. Vicki was running a very measured 7:40 min/mile pace and I stuck with her for the next 11 miles. By mile 14 the pace was too fast and I let her pull away without letting her know I had been following. Sadly about a mile later I passed her at the side of the road stretching out a cramp or something.
By mile 15 I was about 4 minutes up on my target and it was becoming hard work but I just did my best to keep a reasonable pace and keep going. I drank all the Lucozade sport I was offered, plus some water, took a gel at 8 miles, a second at 14 and pocketed a third for later. My peaked cap was vital to keep the sun off as the haze burned off and the temperature rose steadily. The crowds were brilliant as ever, I saw my family at 22 miles always a fantastic boost and tried to dig in for the last 4 miles. By this stage I couldn’t do my 8 times table so I got out my split times written on a piece of cereal packet and checked the trusty Timex. Knowing that I was ahead of last year kept me going and I finished 80 seconds faster in 3:28:12. Many thanks to Vikki for pulling me round the first half, you were running really brilliantly. I ran better than I had expected which has helped my confidence for Edinburgh enormously and I’m determined to give Roody a run for his money in a month’s time!
Thanks, Stuart

Jo Haynes
What a fantastic day - probably one of the most rewarding things I have every done. Not the time that i'd hoped for 5hrs 20mins 20secs, however everybody was struggling with the heat and watching people collapse around me made me realise that pushing yourself just wasn't worth it (that's my excuse and i'm sticking to it!!) - Thanks to all of my friends and family who supported me on the course - I saw them at 5 different points - and everytime was an absolute boost. It was also wonderful to see Alan, William and Emily Madsen at the end because after all it was all about their wonderful wife and mum.
PCRF had only 17 runners - and I am very proud to have been one of them. I haven't taken my medal off yet and possibly never will!!
THANK YOU - to every single person who has donated to this incredibly worthwhile cause together we have smashed my fundraising target and the money is still coming in.
Thanks, Jo

Kareen Mann
Just to let you know how I did in that horrible/brilliant London Marathon. 3:56, I made the classic schoolgirl error. I started too fast, I knew it, but couldn’t rein myself in. By twelve miles I felt the legs becoming heavy and the whole feel of the race changed, it was head down, grit my teeth and get on with it. I was so pleased to have crossed that line and finish. My incentive was my lovely mum.
And Help the Hospices. Thanks to everyone who sponsored or helped me with this experience.
Thanks, Kareen

Stuart B. advises us that .....Registration for the 2012 Virgin London Marathon opens on Tuesday 26th April. Last year the 120,000 places went within 24 hours so get in quick if you want a place in the ballot for 2012.

Boston Marathon 18/4/11
Jayne Ackroyd
Wow what a race! Race day dawned and the sky was clear blue and sunny, very windy and cold out of the sun, but very warm in it. It was an early start. As Boston is a point to point race, starting inland and running back to Boston, all competitors need to be on a bus to the start by 7.30am. Imagine the logistics of getting 25,000 runners on buses! Every school bus in the state must have been rounded up, and they came by 25 at a time, filled up and moved on. It was amazing to watch.
I got to the runners village at 8.30ish where there was food and drink and baggage buses. I met up with Phil & Julie here and we waited until we were called to the start (and of course I was in a queue for the loo at that point) The excitement started to build as we walked to the start dropping off our baggage on the way. It was a 3 wave start at 20 min intervals, with runners ordered by their qualifying time, and I was in the front pen of wave 3 - number 18298 of 27000 runners.
We set off bang on 10.40. Wave 2 were long gone, so we had clear road ahead. For the first 10 miles it felt like a small local half marathon. No traffic problems, very noisy support, but not huge numbers of people. We passed Wellesley College and all the girls were out to support. When I saw a girl with a sign 'kiss me i'm a chemist' I thought I might find Phil still there!
The miles flew past to start with. It was very hot, so i took water at every mile drinking some and pouring the rest over my head. It was also VERY undulating, but overall slightly downhill to 16M and fortunately the wind was behind! I was averaging about 8 min miles, and did wonder if this was too fast but it felt ok.
I knew that the tough bit was 16 to 21, which was a succession of 4 hills culminating in the infamous Heartbreak Hill, so I was prepared when they began. Unfortunately the constant down hill had taken it's toll on my legs by this point and my quads were getting sore. I dug in and got up the hills. I was surprised how many people were walking and the drinks stations were very congested.
By 21M the hills were done, and the plan had been to enjoy the last 5M down into Boston. Unfortunately, my legs were done too! All I could do was hang on. I could feel the beginnings of cramp in both quads and had to walk twice when I thought they were about to go. This was just enough to keep the cramp at bay, but those last 5M were tough and painful. I was highly relieved to turn the last corner, see the finish ahead, wave to Rich and Paul at the side of the road and then cross the line in 3.42.36! This is a PB by about 5 mins and I was pleased to finish in the top half (and qualify again for next year!) I'd listened to Marathon Talk on the plane on the way over, and they'd suggested the nice idea of dedicating each of the last 6M to someone to help you though. So I tried it, imagining the people either cheering me or running with me. So Vikki, Sam, Lyn, Ginny, Phil and Rich those last 6M were for you!
Well done to Phil and Julie too - and yes, there was champagne afterwards!
Thanks, Jayne

Julie Caseley
We arrived in Boston the Wednesday before the race which was on Patriot’s Day, Monday, 18th April. Initially it
was quite cold. We met up with Phil J. and went to the Expo to collect our running number and very nice technical
t-shirt. The Expo was very big – lots to see and do. We even settled down to watch a video of the course. On the Friday we went to a Red Socks baseball game which was great fun but could see it was going to go on the hours so stayed for 2, sample the culture and atmosphere and went back to hotel just in time to watch the Red Socks lose on TV!!
On Marathon Day we were up at 5 am for breakfast then caught the shuttle bus from the hotel to Boston Common where, together with thousands of runners, there were hundreds of yellow school buses too. The weather had improved and it was forecast to be quite warm with a tail wind – yeah!! The course is a point to point, so 25,000 athletes had to be bussed to the start 26 miles away in Hopkinton. Fortunately I only had about ½ hour to wait to get on a bus then off we went for the hours’ journey to the marathon village at a high school. First was a call of
nature at the porto-potty – not quite as civilised as the ones in the UK but I won’t go into any detail!! I then got a text from Phil saying he was in the hammer throwing cage!!
It was a 3 wave start with 8 corals in each wave so we listened very carefully to be called to the start which was 0.7 miles away. Phil was off first at 10.20 am then Jayne A. and I started at 10.40 am. The start was brilliant with everyone moving together as one as we all had more or less the same qualifying time. It was a very nice course and wish I could have enjoyed it more. There was Gatorade and water at every mile and quite a few extra bits and pieces at the finish. The course wasn’t quite as downhill for the first 16 miles as we were led to believe and then came the Newton Hills, culminating with Heartbreak Hill between mile 20 and 21. By this time I was rapidly running out of energy despite gels every 4 miles and I had to do what I’ve never done in a marathon before now – walk!! It was then suppose to be downhill from mile 21 to the finish in Boston – that wasn’t quite true either, with still a few undulations to come.
Having said that, the support was fantastic from all the towns along the course, especially at about half way from the girls of Wellesley College – I didn’t know girls could scream that loud or for that long!! They were holding posters saying “kiss me” and I couldn’t help thinking of Phil as I read one that said “kiss me, I’m a chemist”!!
For spectators it was great too. Paul and Jayne’s husband Richard, sat in a very quiet bar within yards of the finish line drinking wine and watching the race unfold on the plasma screen TV and following our progress on the computer. When they knew we were in the “home straight” they walked to a space at the front of the barrier within a ¼ mile of the finish line to cheer us home. Fantastic medal but been there, qualified, done that so I have no real inclination to go back to improve my time.
Would have liked a time anything under 4 hours but in the end finished in 4:04:05. Fantastic effort from Jayne and
Phil who both did PB’s on a very demanding course.
Thanks, Julie

and not forgetting........
Shobdon Wood 6 Sunday 17 April 2011 by Jon Green
This race couldn't have been more different to the VLM, but it was hugely enjoyable all the same.Beautiful countryside, fantastic weather, three tough up-hills and a downhill section through a carpet of bluebells! Just me and Chris Jolley were there from Malvern. I finished 9th in 40:14 and Chris was 69th in 53:35. The winner was John Pugh from Builth & District in 33:46. There were 117 finishers. A great little race in the wilds of Herefordshire.
Thanks, Jon
Hanham Horror 24/4/11 by Julie Caseley
Having only arrived back from Boston early Thursday morning, and thinking I'll never walk the same again, it was
time for a quick recovery to run this 6 mile cross country, hilly (very hilly) race today at Hanham, Bristol. By Thursday afternoon I was on antibiotics as my toe had become infected and all the others didn't look too pretty either!! Day by day, everything began to feel so much better and I was confident and more importantly, pain free, at the start of today’s race.
It's been 3 years since I last did this race and now I know why!! It's organised by Bitton Road Runners of Sodbury Slog fame and involved a scenic run on woodland trails and along the river Avon towpath. That's the easy bit. There were some very tough hills as well as 100 steps, not that I could be bothered to count them so I'll take their word for it!! Because of the recent dry weather, the course was not as muddy as I remember it but challenging enough nontheless!! The marshals were brilliant and the support fantastic. I had a very nice t-shirt for finishing and Paul had my free beer. I finished in 59:07, a minute faster than 3 years ago and 2nd FV50.
Thanks again, Julie

Summer Running – Monthly Rota
1st Wednesday - The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall
2nd Wednesday - Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381)
4th Wednesday - The 3 Kings at Hanley Castle
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only) Meet at 7pm as usual
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn. Please speak to Jayne Ackroyd if you can help.

Dunc’s Marathon Challenge
From Duncan Cresswell - With only 5 weeks to go now before I run the Forces March (5 marathons in 5 days) starting 25th of May, I have finally got round to sorting out a bit of fundraising where you could get something back in return. Well….. a possible 6 chances of getting something back!
Attached is an entry form for you to guess how long it will take me to run each day. It’s setup so that you can donate as much as you can afford, but also to put you in the running for a prize. You can even complete more than one form. Just fill it/them in and then post me your entries with a cheque. The lucky winners will be informed a few days after the event at the end of May.
The big prize will be a HAMPER worth over £50, which will include bottles of local ciders, juices and chutneys, plus a few other additions. There are also 5 x £5 cash prizes to win as well.
Forward it to friends and family if you so wish and let’s smash the £1000 target I have to raise for Project 65 – The Veteran’s Charity.
If you just can’t wait to get your entries into me, you can email me your guesses via the excel file attached, but you will need to make the payment via my just giving page – www.justgiving.com/duncan5marathons
Best of luck, Duncan. www.duncancresswell.co.uk

Running for Charity
From Sarah Grout - A number of Malvern Joggers are again fundraising for charity with their Marathon/ Half Marathon/10K running this Spring. We will publicise their efforts on our club website, Facebook and in press releases. Could I trouble people who are running Marathons for charity to let me know:
a) which Marathon(s)/Half Marathons/10Ks you are seeking sponsorship for?
b) which charity you are raising funds for
c) what fundraising target is being chased?
d) what is your JustGiving / Virgin Money etc page address so we can put a link to it
I can be emailed on sarahsgrout@aol.com
Thanks so much, Grouty

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 27/4 Club Night - Three Kings pub, Hanley Castle 7pm
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K and Jenny & Geoff’s post-Crowle 10K BBQ
Sun 8/5 Shakespeare Marathon
Sun 8/5 Mudrunner Oblivion - Eastnor
Sun 15/5 Hereford Half Marathon
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Tue 24/5 Dunc’s Marathon Challenge begins (5 marathons in 5 days)
Fri 27/5 ‘After Marathons’ Party (all welcome) – Peter & Yvonne’s house
Sun 29/5 Acorns Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Wed 15/6 Malvern Joggers 10K
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sat 25/6 Malvern Midsummer Marathon
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, Cheese

Chris's Blog from 17 April 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Club Night, Run for Japan – 13th April 2011
From Steve O. - This is just to say thanks very much to those who gave their generous support to ‘Run for Japan’ last Wednesday evening.
With a little bit of extra added following the count up, we raised £100 on the night.
I know there were one or two people who said they still wish to contribute – please see me on either of the next two Wednesdays.
We have now reached £350 on the ‘totaliser’ with John Masefield School in Ledbury and The Chase School in Malvern still to organise supporting events.

London Marathon
Well done to all the MJs who took part. I’ve looked at the results on the LM website but unfortunately it’s not possible to search ‘by club’ as last year but I have found the following.....
Simeon Foreman 3.33.16, Tony Knight 4.17.06, Mark Cooke 5.05.45, Cat Robinson 5.05.17, Sarah Grout 5.14.55 and Jo Haynes 5.20.30
If you did the LM today please send me a few lines to let me know how you got on. I’m sure you’ve all got a story to tell!

London Marathon finish times required
From Grouty....I mentioned at Malvern Joggers last Wednesday that the Malvern Gazette and BBC H & W have asked me to send them details through on MONDAY of everybody's London Marathon finish times
and TUESDAY of everybody's Boston Marathon times....
I shall be away in London for a few days so wondered if you could preferably text me any times Sunday (London) and Monday (Boston) night (and comments welcome) to 07540 271399
I may be doing an interview Monday morning, so would welcome any anecdotes !
Alternatively you can email to this address - sarahsgrout@aol.com
Thanks so much and HUGE good luck to everyone running in a Spring Marathon. Our Paris Marathoners did us so proud - well done everyone. Love Grouty

Post London Marathon Party
The social committee have arranged an "After Marathons Party" when all the Spring marathons have been completed. Pete and Yvonne Cowling are carrying on the MJ's tradition by agreeing to host the event on Friday 27th May . Everyone is welcome, whether you have run a marathon or not. More details will follow nearer the time.

Race Reports
Paris Marathon 10/4/11 by Peter Wilson
I’m not sure what the French is for Phew What A Scorcher! but it would be a good way to describe conditions at this year’s Paris marathon. It certainly came as a shock to those, like me, who had only recently ventured out in shorts for the first time this year. Early April wasn’t supposed to be like this, help! The race began at 8.45 local time which should have been reasonably cool but pretty soon the sun was strong and I was counting down the k’s to the first water station. These came along at 5k intervals, just often enough. At each I grabbed two bottles, one to drink and the other to tip over my head. It seemed to do the trick, plus as the course unfolded there were extra tables with rows of buckets of water and occasional hoses spraying across the road. You couldn’t fault the organisation. I also liked the solid food – raisins, sugar cubes, chopped up bananas and orange segments. Later on there was cake and even cider. Rumour had it that a wine, cheese and oysters station was near the end, but I didn’t see it – perhaps just as well.
The course was every bit as good as described – from the mass start on the Champs Elysees, past the Louvre and other landmarks in the historic centre, out to a large wooded area to the east then back along the Seine past the Eiffel Tower and around the Bois de Boulogne before finishing close to the Arc de Triomphe, with barely a dull stretch along the way. Thanks to my regular dousing technique and intermittent snacks I was able to hold a consistent pace up to about 20 miles before falling away a bit. Finally after 3 hours 44 minutes it was over and I tottered off to find some shade.
Thanks, Peter
Paris Marathon – Sunday 10/4/11 by Gill McCann
The idea for running in the Paris marathon first started this time last year after all the excitement of London. I decided that if I couldn’t get a place in the ballot I would go for Paris. London didn’t happen so before I thought about it too much, and came to my senses, I entered Paris. The first couple of weeks of my training plan didn’t go too well but after that everything settled down into a routine of speed, Joggers, long runs and recovery runs.
We flew to Paris on the Friday afternoon and before even checking in at the hotel we visited the Expo to collect my number etc to avoid the Saturday crush. Saturday was spent trying to relax and enjoy Paris in the Spring sunshine. Sunday morning dawned promising to be the hottest day so far this year, just my luck! My first dilemma was what to wear – do I wear my leggings that I have worn all through training or my shorts which would be cooler, the shorts won. I arrived at the start line very nervous and wearing the very posh bin bag that we were given to keep warm and sun visor in anticipation of the sun later.
The race started on time but it took me about 17 mins to cross the line. The race itself takes you past some of the most famous land marks in Paris from starting on the Champs Elysee with Arc de Triompe behind to the Place de la Concorde, Eiffel tower and many more – you couldn’t wish for a more scenic route. The race started slowly because of the volume of runners but eased a little as the miles went by. The most difficult parts of the race were the water stations where I always seemed to get somebody who insisted on stopping directly in front of me to drink and the cobbles at about 22 miles. I achieved my aim of completing the course and running all the way and was pleased with my time of 4hours 8 mins and was placed between Peter Wilson and Vivien Tolley who were also running.
Although I did the running on the day there is always a host of others who made it possible. In my case it was a husband who organised the travel and encouraged me when the training was tough, Jayne for the speed training and tips about Paris after her experiences last year, Neill for keeping me injury free and all the training tips and all the Joggers who encouraged me and joined me on long runs, especially Catriona, to make them a little easier. To run a marathon it is definitely a team effort.
Thanks, Gill

MJs Running for Money
From Steve O - Following the hard work by new Malvern Jogger DOMINIQUE EDWARDS, THE CHASE SCHOOL will be championing R4M after the Easter break too!! Thanks very much to her!

MJs Champions League Races
From Julie C - The Champions League races have been decided from August until November subject to dates being confirmed by the organisers (there are no League races in December).
3 Aug Bugatti 10k
13 Aug Stourbridge Stumble
Sep Upton Bishop Big Dipper (date to be confirmed)
Sep Cirencester Park 10k (date to be confirmed)
Oct Hereford Cross Country League (date to be confirmed)
8 Oct Beacon Race
23Oct Stroud Half Marathon
Nov Croome Capability Canter 10k (date to be confirmed)
13 Nov Sodbury Slog
20 Nov Suicide 6
If any of the TBC dates clash, then the Stroud Half Marathon and Suicide 6 will become part of the League.

Forthcoming Races
Bredon Bash Thursday 23/6/11 7.30pm
This is a race, over 6 miles, organised by Evesham Running Club which they are calling and invitation event and the MJs have been invited. It’s the first one I know of which involves running up and down Bredon Hill. I’ve looked at it many times and thought it would be a great venue for a race. It starts at 7.30 but there is also the option to start at 7.10pm for those expecting to take longer than an hour (like me). It’s only a fiver to enter and registration takes place at Elmley Castle Cricket Club. Entry form attached.
Crocodile 8 29/5/11
From the organisers - We are contacting you to remind you that the Crocodile 8 Multi Terrain Race is only 6 weeks away!! Whilst we are accepting entries on the day, we strongly recommend that anyone wishing to take part in this race should send the completed entry form (attatched) to us in order to guarantee their place.
Further race information, course map and previous race results can be found on our website which is www.crocodile8.org.uk.
The gents record was smashed last year by the first 3 to cross the line, Luke Mason in 50.16mins, Matt James in 51.19 and Jonathan Barnes in 51.22!
The ladies record (set in 2005 by Lisa Dent 54.26 mins) still remains intact, perhaps somebody from your club will be able to beat it!
We would be grateful if you could pass this e-mail onto your club members and perhaps add the race to your fixtures list, there is always a great atmosphere both during the race and afterwards at The Bell Inn, Tillington where the prizes are presented and a post race party! (This year we can boast showering facilities, so you can join in the party mud free!!)
Thank you in advance for your support of this great event, we look forward to seeing you there.
The Crocodile 8 Committee

Charity Request
From Phil Jackson - I am running the Boston Marathon in just over a week in aid of the Debbie Fund (part of the UCL Cancer Research charity) which supports research into cervical cancer. My Just Giving page is www.justgiving.com/Philip-Jackson and any contributions (no matter how small) would be very gratefully received.

Summer Running – Monthly Rota
1st Wednesday- The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall.
2nd Wednesday- Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday- Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381)
4th Wednesday- The 3 Kings, at Hanley Castle.
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only)
Meet 7pm as usual
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn.

Rota for summer leaders - any more volunteers?
Jayne Ackroyd - The rota for the Wednesday night leaders for the rest of April and May is going up on the website tonight, now that the summer venues are confirmed.
If anyone else would like to join the rota for the summer months, please let me know via e-mail or Facebook. Please feel free to specify which of the venues you are happy to lead from - I know that not everyone is familiar with routes from every venue. Email ..... jayne.ackroyd@mac.com

Dunc’s ‘ Marathon Challenge
From Duncan Cresswell - With only 6 weeks to go now before I run the Forces March (5 marathons in 5 days) starting 25th of May, I have finally got round to sorting out a bit of fundraising where you could get something back in return. Well….. a possible 6 chances of getting something back!
Attached is an entry form for you to guess how long it will take me to run each day. It’s setup so that you can donate as much as you can afford, but also to put you in the running for a prize. You can even complete more than one form. Just fill it/them in and then post me your entries with a cheque. The lucky winners will be informed a few days after the event at the end of May.
The big prize will be a HAMPER worth over £50, which will include bottles of local ciders, juices and chutneys, plus a few other additions. There are also 5 x £5 cash prizes to win as well.
Forward it to friends and family if you so wish and let’s smash the £1000 target I have to raise for Project 65 – The Veteran’s Charity.
If you just can’t wait to get your entries into me, you can email me your guesses via the excel file attached, but you will need to make the payment via my just giving page – www.justgiving.com/duncan5marathons
Best of luck, Duncan. www.duncancresswell.co.uk

MJs Latest Charity Challenge
From Steve ‘Bob Geldof’ Ollis and Paul ‘Sundance’ Newman:
Hot on the heels of Red Nose Day, we would now like to say let’s do some “RUNNING FOR MONEY!!
We have decided to piggy back on “RUN FOR JAPAN” (see website - Run for Japan.com) and show that we are a Club that can offer our support to the people of Japan……but this challenge is not going to be like either of our previous charity events in 2010. WE NEED TO MOVE FAST!!
Starting on Monday 21st March 2010 (tomorrow), we would like the Malvern Joggers and friends to cover a total of at least 1,000 miles in 28 days.
We are simply asking you to dedicate just one run of any distance to the people of Japan and donate at least £1 per mile run.
The ‘Run for Japan’ website allows you donate to The Red Cross with the bonus of GIFT AID. There is also an opportunity to upload a photo from your run (MJ colours please!). Steve will be keep record of distance achieved on an accumulator type basis – please email him on steveo@malvernjoggers.co.uk.
Thanks very much and good luck!!

Mudrunner
Facebook Paul - If you would like to check out what Mud Runner is all about checkout www.mudrunner.co.uk especially the video of Roodie Lynda Ginny and Val doing Mud Runner last year. This is for The Oblivion event! which is a 6 mile Mud run with added obstacles ...including 2 swims across the lakes in the Deer park at Eastnor. Although tough I would recommend this to ANY Malvern Jogger if you can run 6 miles you can do this !

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Mon 21/3 for 28 days ‘MJs Running for Money’ (Japan Earthquake Appeal)
Wed 20/4 Club Night - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton 7pm
Wed 27/4 Club Night - Three Kings pub, Hanley Castle 7pm
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 8/5 Shakespeare Marathon
Sun 15/5 Hereford half Marathon
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Fri 27/5 Post London Marathon Party (all welcome)
Sun 29/5 Acorns Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, Cheese

Chris's Blog from 10 April 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Some Messages from Stuart.....

1. MJ Spring Marathon Runners- Part 2. We look forward to hearing from Duncan Cresswell, Gill McCann, Viv Tolley and Peter Wilson who ran marathons this weekend.

2. Next weekend it’s the Virgin London Marathon on Sunday 17th April. Let me know if I’ve missed anyone out, the team is Vikki Sivertson, Sarah Grout, Catriona Robinson, Steve Roode, Keith Ruff, Andrew Scott, Sim Foreman, Tony Knights and Stuart Brown. This will also be Mark Cooke’s first marathon and Jo Haines says it’s her LAST!
The Boston marathon is the following day, Monday 18th April. Jayne, Julie and Phil Jackson are running.
Magnificent Eastnor Seven. I spent a sunny morning marshalling for the Ledbury Harrier race. The weather brought runners out and there were almost 150 entries. The six MJ’s taking part were in the following order when they passed me with a mile to go;- Nigel Sewell, Sam Burnage, Jerry Greer, Amanda Dawson, Dave Green and Dave Brett.

3. Marshals and other helpers needed. Preparations are well underway for the Malvern Joggers 10k Race on Wednesday evening 15th June and we already have 27 entries. We need volunteers to help with marshalling, registration, drinks stations, car parking and this year catering as well. Please will you send an e-mail to stuart@malvernjoggers.co.uk or a text to 07880-748187 if you can help and let me know if you fancy a particular job. We will let as many MJ’s do the race as possible but our first priority is to put on a well organised and well marshalled race so we hope you will volunteer.

4. Next Wednesday 13th April is our last run from Malvern St James before we move out into the countryside for the summer.

Race Reports
Scenic 6 (Peopleton) 1./4/11 by Jenny Field
It was a good job we left early for the race this morning, we went the pretty way! We had picked up Derek and Ros to take them along to support and to advertise our own 10k. Sitting in the back of the car Derek and I wondered if Geoff was taking us to Crowle instead. We were not too reassured when Geoff had to pull over and consult the map.
We did however arrive in plenty of time. We met a few other Joggers there not a bad turn out considering there were two popular local runs on.
The race was as always well organised, well marshaled and very scenic.
It was a bit warm for my liking but I enjoyed it. I even over took a couple of ladies on the downhill bits and its not often I do that!
In usual Gentle Jogger mode I picked up a first timer and encouraged her round. That’s just what I like to do.
I did have a few sneaky walks and just before the end when I thought I was hidden by a hedge I heard Derek and Ros shouting, encouraging me to run again so I did and was joined by Geoff who spurred me on to the finish. Not a great time but I had a 'good time'.
Thanks to all the faster runners who congratulated me at the end I know they have to hang around a while and it is much appreciated.
Thanks, Jenny

Thank you message ....
From Julie Caseley - Thank you to Tony Knight for suggesting the IET talk given by a senior lecturer in Sport Science from Worcester University at the Fownes Hotel, Worcester on Monday night.
It was extremely interesting and informative - well worth going to.

The Westonbirt Arboretum 10k entry
Julie again - For runners who are not members of a UK Athletics club is closed. Entries for affiliated UKA club runners will close on Friday, 6 May or earlier if the limit is reached. An entry form can be downloaded from www.cirencester-ac.org.uk

Two from Sim Foreman ....
London Marathon - If you fancy travelling in a group on the train to London Marathon (and back) it works out at £23 return if 4 of you travel together. Tony Knight has said he interested and am looking to see if there are any others who fancy this.
I would be looking to travel Saturday morning – go and pick up number and then travel back Sunday afternoon after the race and a few pints.
Email Simeon@iloverunning.co.uk or call/text 07962 460843 if you fancy this. I am looking to sort in next day or so grateful for prompt replies.
Running Tops......
Good sale on at Foska for so cool vests with free delivery at present.
http://www.foska.com/running-vests/

Charity Request - 1
From Phil Jackson - I am running the Boston Marathon in just over a week in aid of the Debbie Fund (part of the UCL Cancer Research charity) which supports research into cervical cancer. My Just Giving page is www.justgiving.com/Philip-Jackson and any contributions (no matter how small) would be very gratefully received.

Charity Request - 2
From The Scouts - I work for the Scouts Association and was wondering whether your running club would be able to display some posters for us regarding running for Scouts. I spoke to Stuart Brown and he suggested I emailed you. We have charity places in the Royal Parks Half Marathon, The British 10K and the Teeside Rat Race. If you would like further information regarding our challenge events please refer to http://www.scouts.org.uk/events?category=Challenge+events
I will look forward to hearing from you.
Kind Regards, Natasha
Natasha Milsted, Marketing executive The Scout Association, Tel: 020 8433 7231 Web: www.scouts.org.uk Email: Natasha.Milsted@scouts.org.uk
Join the adventure at www.scouts.org.uk/join

Membership
Welcome to new members Laura Williams, Dominique Edwards and Claire Gilbert.

Dunc’s ‘ Marathon Challenge
From Duncan Cresswell - With only 7 weeks to go now before I run the Forces March (5 marathons in 5 days) starting 25th of May, I have finally got round to sorting out a bit of fundraising where you could get something back in return. Well….. a possible 6 chances of getting something back!
Attached is an entry form for you to guess how long it will take me to run each day. It’s setup so that you can donate as much as you can afford, but also to put you in the running for a prize. You can even complete more than one form. Just fill it/them in and then post me your entries with a cheque. The lucky winners will be informed a few days after the event at the end of May.
The big prize will be a HAMPER worth over £50, which will include bottles of local ciders, juices and chutneys, plus a few other additions. There are also 5 x £5 cash prizes to win as well.
Forward it to friends and family if you so wish and let’s smash the £1000 target I have to raise for Project 65 – The Veteran’s Charity.
If you just can’t wait to get your entries into me, you can email me your guesses via the excel file attached, but you will need to make the payment via my just giving page – www.justgiving.com/duncan5marathons
Best of luck, Duncan. www.duncancresswell.co.uk

The Westonbirt Arboretum 10k Entry
Some Information on this race from Julie Caseley - For runners who are not members of a UK Athletics club is closed. Entries for affiliated UKA club runners will close on Friday, 6 May or earlier if the limit is reached. An entry form can be downloaded from www.cirencester-ac.org.uk

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Mon 21/3 for 28 days ‘MJs Running for Money’ (Japan Earthquake Appeal)
Wed 13/4 Club Night MSJ 7pm
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Wed 20/4 Club Night - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton 7pm
Wed 27/4 Club Night - Three Kings pub, Hanley Castle 7pm
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 8/5 Shakespeare Marathon
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, Cheese

Chris's Blog from 03 April 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Messages from Chairman Stuart ......
Summer Runs. Wednesday night runs will move from MSJ out into the countryside for the summer from Wednesday 20th April when we will run from the Gullet Quarry on Castlemorton Common.
Start time remains the same 7.00 p.m.
There has been much discussion about the mix of venues. The locations this summer are intended to give a good mix of new places and old favourites, give more access to the Hills than last year and still provide enough comfortable routes for the Gentle Joggers.
The monthly rota is:-
1st Wednesday- The Chase Inn, Upper Colwall.
2nd Wednesday- Old Hills car park, Callow End, (grid ref 831488)
3rd Wednesday- Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton Common (grid ref 766381)
4th Wednesday- The 3 Kings, at Hanley Castle.
5th Wednesday- The Drum and Monkey, head south out of Upton on Severn on the B4211 (grid ref 844392) (29th June and 31st August only)
We are going to need leaders for the runs from all these places so please do some homework and prepare a route, ready to take a turn.

MJ Spring Marathon Runners. There are at least 26 Malvern Joggers running marathons this Spring.
Recently across the line are:- Ian Dyson in the Cotswold marathon (20th March) and Lisa Dainty 3 marathons in 3 days in the Jurassic Coast Series (25th – 27th March).
Good Luck to the next group of Malvern Joggers who are running next weekend:- Duncan Cresswell who is running the Bath Beat on 9th April and Gill McCann, Viv Tolley and Peter Wilson who are doing the Paris marathon on 10th April.
Coming up we have the Virgin London marathon on 17th April, Boston on 18th April, the Shakespeare marathon and Edinburgh in May.
Good Luck guys,Stuart
P.S. does anyone have a fast healing remedy for a mega blister?

Jon Green’s Bacon Buttie Birthday Run Saturday 2 April 2011
From the Birthday boy Jon himself - A big thank you to everyone who turned out on Saturday morning for my 50th birthday run and breakfast. Names too numerous to mention, but special thanks to Linda who provided a delicious carrot cake even though she wasn't able to join us for the run or the breakfast in the end and to Jo who did a fantastic job keeping us supplied with coffee, tea, bacon, sausage, etc. I certainly had a great time and I think everyone else enjoyed it too. Even Big Steve (Sir Bob) Ollis managed to enjoy it despite moaning all the way round on the run. Bring on the next big birthday!

Race Reports
Jurassic Challenge 25-27/3/11 by Lisa Dainty
Last Thursday I drove down to Dorset, looking forward to viewing the sights of the Jurassic coast – Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, almost forgetting the real reason for the trip. Some time ago whilst surfing the net and drinking wine (bad combination!) I found a 78 mile challenge!
Organised by VOTWO, offering participants 3 marathons in 3 days! 78 miles in all on the beautiful coastal paths of dorset. Described in there blurb as the mother of all hilly runs and indeed it was.
Day 1 started at Studland bay around to Lulworth Cove, off road, aprox 26.8 miles with just under 3000ft ascent. Day 2 was from Lulworth Cove, around Portland bill and back to Chesil beach, aprox 2000ft in ascent, 26.2 miles – unfortunately this stretch did have the most amount of tarmac!. Day 3 was back to the coastal off road paths, from Chesil beach to Charmouth, again very hilly with a total of about 2800ft ascent of rolling countryside.
The weather was fantastic throughout, the organisation was excellent and the VOTWO team very supportive. There were 3 groups each day – walkers, joggers and runners! Setting off at different times, you were able to pick and mis your start groups dependent on how you were feeling!
My aim was just to complete the mileage each day without injury! I did and was very pleased with my efforts. My training had not gone that well and I had not completed the recommended back to back runs suggested. However, I believe with these kind of events a lot is to do with mind over matter – and being the stubborn kind of person I am I got round! VOTWO organise a similar challenge on theAtlantic Coast and the Pembrokeshire coast – if you are mad enough they also organise the ‘Oner’ - basically you do the 78 miles – but all in one go throughout the night with no break….. Now that is crazy!
Thanks, Lisa
Chedworth Roman Trail 3/4/11 by Julie Caseley
The Chedworth Roman Trail race was based at Chedworth Village Hall on the edge of the village of Chedworth, six
miles north of Cirencester. The course ran through parts of the Stowell Park Estate, the Coln Valley and close to the well-known Chedworth Roman Villa.
The first and last mile were on road but the remainder was on a mixture of farm trails, footpaths, fields, private gravel roads and woodland hills. There was one river crossing (River Coln) just before half way but there were no stiles or other obstacles. The course was mainly flat or downhill to begin with and just after the river crossing there was an incline before more flat and downhill. There were two notable hills after 7 miles which were not muddy due to the lack of rain. The course was well marked and marshalled and there were water stations at 4 and 8 miles and at the finish. It was a very friendly and competitive race with plenty of club runners but very manageable. The prize presentation was prompt and swift with with 1st, 2nd and 3rd male and female overall as well as age category prizes in 5 year intervals. I finished in 1:30:00 (2nd FV50) with Chris Smallman and Lorraine Bunn finishing together in a time of 1:37.
Thanks, Julie
Wakefield Hospice 10k 3/4/11 by Jayne Ackroyd
I took in another race while 'up North' this weekend. Unsurprisingly I was the only representative of the MJs at this one in the heart of West Yorkshire. In aid of a local hospice, it was billed as a 'flat, fast, out and back course with PB potential'. This was almost true - I did find the odd flat bit - but not many! The field was over 1100 runners, but felt very friendly.
It started in the very pleasant venue of a local park. There was an announcer who was in good voice from about 8:15 am onwards, an aerobics warm-up, and a prompt start at 9:00 am.
We set off on a tarmac path through the park with no hold ups or congestion, and soon turned out of the park on to the local roads. The bulk of the race was along a straight main road which was closed to traffic. The first two miles were a bit undulating, but definitely net uphill and mile 3 was a steady climb to the turn. I suffered a bit at this point from the combined effects of last weekends 23M and the 11M I did on Friday. At 2.5M I saw the leader on the way back down the other side of the road, which at least provided a distraction. The second half felt better, as it was largely down hill, but I found my second wind rather too late at about 5M. The finish took me by surprise, as we turned quite suddenly back into the park and there we were with barely enough time for a sprint. I was pleased to finish in 47:10 (a PB by about 45 secs), 25th lady, and 5th in age category. Not the most exciting route, but a pleasant, friendly, well-organised race overall. Definitely one to have another go at, now I know what the course is really like - and its for a good cause too :-)
Thanks, Jayne
Bournemouth Bay Half Marathon 3/4/11 by Vikki Sivertsen
London in 2 weeks....do I race today, do I run at target marathon pace? That was the question I have been mulling over for more than a week. I decided to leave my racing ego at home in Malvern and use todays half as a dress rehearsal for London. Basic meal the night before, 7-8 hours sleep, bagels and strong coffee for breakfast, run at target marathon pace ie 7.40 mins per mile.
Apart from a short sharp climb at the start the course is relatively flat, the majority being run on the sea front between Bournemouth Pier and Southbourne. We did run through some houses for a short spell where the pavements were a bit narrow for overtaking, but other than this it was picturesque and enjoyable. I would say PB potential, but today I stuck to my plan clocking a 1:40:15, bang on what I intended, no knee pain....roll on London, I’m ready!
Thanks, Vikki

Beacon Race
Can anyone help Simeon Foreman who is trying to locate a copy of the 2006 Beacon Race results. Even the current organiser’s can’t help! Email ... Simeon@iloverunning.co.uk

‘Magnificent Eastnor 7’
From Stuart B. - Can you help...... Ledbury Harriers need some help with their race the ‘Magnificent Eastnor 7’ on Sunday 10th April. They need marshals and other helpers and are also looking for someone to run with a blind runner. If you’re not running at Eastnor or the Scenic Six and are able to help please send me a text or e-mail. Stuart@MalvernJoggers.co.uk 07880-748187.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Mon 21/3 for 28 days ‘MJs Running for Money’ (Japan Earthquake Appeal)
Wed 6/4 Club Night MSJ 7pm
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 10/4 Eastnor 7
Wed 13/4 Club Night MSJ 7pm
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Wed 20/4 Club Night - Gullet Quarry car park, Castlemorton 7pm
Wed 27/4 Club Night - Three Kings pub, Hanley Castle 7pm
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 8/5 Shakespeare Marathon
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Weekly Reminders
Be safe, be seen! Wear something white or florescent on the dark nights
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 3 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email.
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know.
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website

At the request of the management of MSJ…….Please do not park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.

Happy running, Cheese

Chris's Blog from 27 March 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Extraordinary General Meeting
From Geoff - Just a reminder that before Wednesday night's club run (7:00 p.m. at Malvern St James Sorts Hall) there will be a Extraordinary General Meeting of the club to approve an amended club constitution. The existing constitution no longer reflects several aspects of how the club operates and this is an attempt to regularise these matters.
Since the draft revised constitution was first published last month there has been one proposed amendment, from Carl Flint, with the purpose of improving the clubs prospects of receiving grant funding (if required) by emphasizing the ethos of openness and social inclusiveness. This has been considered by the committee, which has agreed to adopt Carl's amendment. This has been incorporated into the final draft revision, which is attached. I am also attaching a summary of the changes from the current constitution for your information.
Please try to read through the revised constitution before Wednesday night so that we can keep the time spent on the E.G.M. to a minimum (so we can get on with the more important business of running). If you have any matter which you would like to raise at the meeting, please let me know.
Regards, Geoff Field (Club Secretary)

Dunc’s ‘ Marathon Challenge
From Duncan Cresswell - With only 8 weeks to go now before I run the Forces March (5 marathons in 5 days), I have finally got round to sorting out a bit of fundraising where you could get something back in return. Well….. a possible 6 chances of getting something back!
Attached is an entry form for you to guess how long it will take me to run each day. It’s setup so that you can donate as much as you can afford, but also to put you in the running for a prize. You can even complete more than one form. Just fill it/them in and then post me your entries with a cheque. The lucky winners will be informed a few days after the event at the end of May.
The big prize will be a HAMPER worth over £50, which will include bottles of local ciders, juices and chutneys, plus a few other additions. There are also 5 x £5 cash prizes to win as well.
Forward it to friends and family if you so wish and let’s smash the £1000 target I have to raise for Project 65 – The Veteran’s Charity.
If you just can’t wait to get your entries into me, you can email me your guesses via the excel file attached, but you will need to make the payment via my just giving page – www.justgiving.com/duncan5marathons
Best of luck, Duncan. www.duncancresswell.co.uk

Two from Facebook Paul
Next Tuesday’s Hash
The Malvern Hash are coming to the Three Horseshoes in Poolbrook, for a Hash let by Paul and Roodie. This is a "palindrome" Hash Roodie has suggested that all Hashers where all there clothes back to front... It should be a good laugh, if you've never Hashed before this could be a fun one to start with.
Oblivion Places Draw
The Joggers in the draw for the 3 FREE Oblivion places are, Mark "Cookie Monster" Cooke, Kareen Mann, Judy Newman, Debbie Wooley, the draw will be held on Wednesday if anyone else wishes to be included please let me know.

Champions League Request
From Julie C. - Could all those runners who competed in the Forest of Dean Half Marathon this morning and exchanged numbers with someone else, please let me know so I can accurately compile the Champions League. Contact email is juliecaseley@tiscali.co.uk.

European Veteran Athetics Indoor T&F Champions
Barry Swindells - My running suffered a serious reality check this week at the European Veteran Athetics Indoor T&F Champions. I got thro to final of 800mtr on Thurs. Finished 8th in final on Friday. Better effort today finished 5th in vet70 1500mts.

Forthcoming Events
The Apperley Quarter Marathon 10/9/11
I have been asked to bring this one to your attention so here goes .....We run a quarter marathon around Apperley and Deerhurst on September 10th (11 a.m. start) - details can be found at www.quartermarathon.co.uk
It is a non-clubby friendly event, notable really for running through a Anglo-Saxon Church's churchyard!, for which we had 160 runners last year. We would like to get up to 250 if possible this year so we can raise more money for our charity this year, Tewkesbury Hospital.
There is only one hill which will be easy for people growing up running in the Malverns!
cheers, Rowan Leeke, Apperley Cricket Club
Apperley is in Gloucestershire and not too far from Tewkesbury.

Worcestershire Race4Men 2011 – 3/4/11
Venue: Droitwich Rugby Club, The Glyn Mitchell Memorial Ground, Hanbury Road, Droitwich, WR9 7DU
Date:Sunday April 3 2011. Contact:Craig Browne and Chris Ward. Phone:07783 796768
Email:worcestershirerace4men@hotmail.co.uk
Entry fee:£6.00
The website says......We are looking for men and boys to run, jog, or walk 5k and gain sponsorship.
If you would like to help in the battle against cancer, and raise money for Cancer Research UK this men's race will be held on Sunday April 3rd 2010 at 11am. This will be a fun day out for all the family. Refreshments will also be available.
Entry is £6 for adults and £3 for under 12's. You then need to gather as much sponsorship as you can for this great cause.
Under 18's are only able to register on the day as they need a signed parental disclaimer. For details please email worcestershirerace4men@hotmail.co.uk
Race4Men is a fun event, kindly organised by a supporter of Cancer Research UK and aims to raise awareness of men’s cancers.
This event is organised by a supporter of Cancer Research UK.
worcestershirerace4men@hotmail.co.uk

Race Reports
What, no race reports? F-O-D 1/2M?

MJs Next Charity Challenge
From Steve ‘Bob Geldof’ Ollis and Paul ‘Sundance’ Newman:
Hot on the heels of Red Nose Day, we would now like to say let’s do some “RUNNING FOR MONEY!!
We have decided to piggy back on “RUN FOR JAPAN” (see website - Run for Japan.com) and show that we are a Club that can offer our support to the people of Japan……but this challenge is not going to be like either of our previous charity events in 2010. WE NEED TO MOVE FAST!!
Starting on Monday 21st March 2010 (tomorrow), we would like the Malvern Joggers and friends to cover a total of at least 1,000 miles in 28 days.
We are simply asking you to dedicate just one run of any distance to the people of Japan and donate at least £1 per mile run.
The ‘Run for Japan’ website allows you donate to The Red Cross with the bonus of GIFT AID. There is also an opportunity to upload a photo from your run (MJ colours please!). Steve will be keep record of distance achieved on an accumulator type basis – please email him on steveo@malvernjoggers.co.uk.
Thanks very much and good luck!!

Mudrunner
From Facebook Paul - I've had a message from Kes at Mud Runner, for this years Oblivion run and hopefully future Mud runner events he's offering The Malvern Joggers 3 free places ! He has asked if these could go to first timers who haven't done a Mud Runner event before. This is very generous as places are normally £25, if you would like to check out what Mud Runner is all about checkout www.mudrunner.co.uk especially the video of Roodie Lynda Ginny and Val doing Mud Runner last year. This is for The Oblivion event! which is a 6 mile Mud run with added obstacles ...including 2 swims across the lakes in the Deer park at Eastnor. Although tough I would recommend this to ANY Malvern Jogger if you can run 6 miles you can do this !
The club has yet to decide how to distribute these places, it may be by Ballot. If you wish to be included please let myself or Stuart know.

Jon Green’s Bacon Buttie Birthday Run Saturday 2 April 2011
Jon Says.....It's coming up to the Big 50 for me, so following Chris' fine example earlier this year, all MJ's are invited to come along on Saturday 2 April for a social run followed by breakfast at my place. If you want to do just the run or just the breakfast, no problem. Meet at 09.30 at 17 Victoria Road, Malvern for the run or at around 10.30 for just the breakfast. If you think you're likely to be coming for breakfast (with or without the run) can you let me know by email (green.jonathan@virgin.net) or text (079 7416 8577) so I've got some idea of numbers. Cheers!

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Mon 21/3 for 28 days ‘MJs Running for Money’ (Japan Earthquake Appeal)
Wed 30/3 Club Night MSJ 7pm
Sat 2/4 Jon Green’s Bacon Buttie Birthday Run
Sun 3/4 Chedworth Roman Trail
Sun 3/4 Race4Men 5K – Droitwich Rugby Club 11am
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 10/4 Eastnor 7
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 10/9 Apperley Quarter Marathon
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Weekly Reminders
Be safe, be seen! Wear something white or florescent on the dark nights
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 2 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email.
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know.
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website
At the request of the management of MSJ…….Please do not park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.

Happy running, The Cheesy one

Chris's Blog from 20 March 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

MJs Bakeathon
From Facebook - Lynda says .. Amanda Val and I are overwhelmed with the support we received for the BAKEATHON so many fabulous cakes donated and so many generous people bought em so far we've raised a staggering £365.00 GO MJs not only can we run were fab at baking too xxx
Our Chairman Stuart says - Congratulations to Lynda, Amanda, Val and the team for organising the ‘MJ Bakathon’ at the Nags Head last Wednesday. The total to date is around £400 raised for Comic Relief. Thanks to Geoff who made a fantastic Red Nose Simnel Cake, perfect for my carbo loading, can you come up with a cake to get me out running more often please?

Circuit Training
The last MJ circuits session is this Thursday 24th March from 8.00 to 9.00 p.m. at MSJ.

Kit Corner
From Kitman Steve - A number of people have asked me to order them a hoodie – if you would like one then please e-mail me with your requirements as I will be putting another order in this week
stephen.roode@autobag.co.uk

Forest-of-Dean Place Available
Phone Amanda Dawson on 07727953730 if you would like her place in the F-O-D Half.

Forthcoming Races
Camba Events have contacted me with the following ....
We are pleased to again be organising a number of races in 2011 which will give Midlands athletes the opportunity to participate in a variety of well organised events during the coming months. Full details are on our website, but here is our programme for this year.
SUNDAY APRIL 10th : 10th anniversary SCENIC SIX and 2 mile FUN RUN at Peopleton, Worcs.
There are just three weeks to go for you to enter this popular event which covers a two mile road section before heading onto footpaths and field edges around the farmland of South Worcestershire. Medals to each finisher, and superb cakes & rolls after the race. There is also a two-mile fun run suitable for all ages, again with a mixture of road, footpath and fields. One week after Mother's Day, one week before London - come and enjoy excellent hospitality with ALL proceeds going to St Richard's Hospice.
TUESDAY MAY 10th : 11th KINGSBURY CLASSIC at Kingsbury Water Park, Warwickshire.
The original Kingsbury race, and our ever popular mid-week, two lap 10km race around the pools of Kingsbury and the riverside. Excellent venue, medals to each finisher and the coffee shop stays open for the duration of the event. We even pay your car parking fee !
SATURDAY JUNE 18th : BREEDON-ON-THE-HILL 6.5kms RUN at Breedon-on-the-Hill, Derbyshire.
We are delighted to be involved with the return of this marvellous Saturday afternoon event tied in with the local school fete. The race starts with a cruel climb up to the church on the hill, before descending through country lanes to run on grass around a golf course, through a picturesque village then returning to the school along an old railway line (now a cycle/walking track) and through fields to the finish. Medals to each finisher, with a barbecue at the school fete.
SUNDAY JULY 3rd : ABERDARE 10km, Wales.
Another newcomer to our portfolio, we shall be providing results service to this popular race held in support of MacMillan Nurses.
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 20th : CANNOCK ROTARY 10km, Staffs.
This is the second time for this excellent road race around the scenic Cannock Chase. Over 200 turned out for the inaugural event last year, and we are back again with an improved finish area and medals to each finisher.
If you have already entered any of our events we thank you for your support, and if you haven't yet done so, why not download an entry form from our website and send it off to-day. We'd love to see you again. Sadly, there is no Warndon Villages Fun Run this year, as the Parish Council decided that there were too many "proper runners" entering the event, and that it was no longer a community day out. We are obviously the victims of our own success
www.cambaevents.co.uk

Race Reports
Stafford Half Marathon 20/3/11 by Julie Caseley
I last ran this race in 2006 and 2007 and was hoping to beat my 2007 time of 1:48:26. It was a bit of an early start but the conditions were perfect.
Stafford town centre was bustling with competitors by 9am so there was plenty of time to have a sit down with Paul in Costa with his cup of coffee and croissant!! I decided to collect my t- shirt before the race to get it over and done with and was surprised that, 5 mins after the Enquiry Desk had opened, they'd run out of small t-shirts!! I now have a medium that Samantha and I could both get into!! Looking on the bright side, by time I finished the race, they only had extra large left.
The race itself got off to a prompt start at 10am and meandered its way through Stafford town centre which made for a slowish start. However the field soon sorted itself out and we were on our way. The route was lovely and scenic and although there were only suppose to be 2 steady inclines, there were at least 4 hills but the run into Milford between 5 and 6 miles was a lovely downhill sweep. Just before mile 11 we ran along a disused railway line (so that was pretty flat) and then back into Stafford along the River Sow before a loop of the town and back to the finish. I felt I was going Ok and don't think I could have gone much faster so was a little disappointed with my finish time of about 1:49:13.
Thanks, Julie

THE BLAKEDOWN BOLT - 17TH JUNE 2011 - UPDATE TO RUNNING CLUBS
Anybody doing this one? You’ll need to enter soon if you are .... From the organiser’s - We're writing to our Running Club contacts to advise you that our event is filling up at an unprecedented rate - we are already well over half full.
Would you be good enough to bring this to the attention of your Club members?
We always get a great showing from various clubs, and we don't want to disappoint people, but every year we have to turn away many would-be entrants.
Download entry forms from www.blakedownvillage.co.uk or enter online at www.runnersworld.co.uk
Kind regards, Lesley Brown, on behalf of the Blakedown Bolters

Joggers Pub Crawl
From Roodie..... the plan will be to start at the Chase from 7.00pm on Friday 25th March take in as many local establishments as we can by closing time. For those who don’t want to do a full tour we aim to be in the Foley/Wetherspoons between 8.00 - 8.30 and bring a friend – the more the merrier!!!

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Mon 21/3 for 28 days ‘MJs Running for Money’ (Japan Earthquake Appeal)
Wed 23/3 Club Night MSJ 7pm
Thu 24/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sat 2/4 Jon Green’s Bacon Buttie Birthday Run
Sun 3/4 Chedworth Roman Trail
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 10/4 Eastnor 7
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Weekly Reminders
Be safe, be seen! Wear something white or florescent on the dark nights
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 2 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email.
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know.
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website
At the request of the management of MSJ…….Please do not park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.

Happy running, The Cheesy one

Chris's Blog from 13 March 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

MJs Bakeathon – The Nags Head this Wednesday 16th of March
From Amanda and Lynda .... It’s only 5 days to Red Nose Day and only 3 days to the Malvern Joggers Bakeathon
We need you to bake a cake, doesn't matter what it is. Just bring it along to The Nags Head on Wednesday 16th March at 8pm where we have arranged to hold a cake sale. If you can't make it to The Nags then Lynda and myself will be at Malvern St James from 6.30pm to collect any cakes that you have for the cake sale.
If you haven't done so already then get your aprons on, dust off your cookery books, turn your ovens on and get baking!!

Circuit Training
The next MJ’s circuit training session at MSJ is THURSDAY 24th March between 8.00 and 9.00 pm.

Race Reports
Fradley 10K 13/3/11 by Julie Caseley
The 12th running of this race was a little disappointing on so many levels!! The 10.30 am start was OK even though Fradley is 1.5 hours from Malvern. It was raining when we arrived an hour early but cleared up just in time for the start which unfortunately was delayed for 15 minutes, so those who had warmed up for a 10.30 start were a little cool by 10.45!! The race was championchip timed with the chip being on the back of the race number. Apparently, last year it was on the shoe and marshals were removing the timing device before runners had crossed the finish line!! The event was organised by KP Events (as opposed to a running club) and, on the surface, at £12 for club runner , it really did look like a race for profit. The route itself was along rural country lanes and was a very flat double lap course so a PB was on the cards. However, we were able to see the results on a screen at the end of the race and it looks as if only the gun time was recorded, so those starting at the back of the 500+ field, were in for a bit of a surprise. Also, some runners had no times or positions by their names so not sure what happened there. Prizes were only awarded to the first 3 male and female runners. Also, the age categories went up in 10 year increments and from past experience, the organisers thought it was too much trouble to award age category prizes, so they didn’t! And just to top everything off, my Garmin conked out after half a mile!! I was running with someone from 5km and managed 48:59. From a spectators point of view, Paul thought the only good thing were the refreshments and shelter in the village hall (no cakes though!!) I last did this race in 2005; perhaps it will be another 6 years before I do it again.
Thanks, Julie
Fradley 10K, 13th March 2011 by Tina Brooks
My first ever 10km (literally!) – Ok, my efforts do not begin to approach the sporting exertions of many MJ members, but – hey - you’ve got to start somewhere! Having run only the Comic Relief 3km and the Race for Life 5km before, I wanted to do a 10km run; not in the middle of winter, somewhere not too muddy, and preferably flat. The “Fradley 10K” fitted the bill.
I arrived early, dressed ‘ready to race’ as required (there is only limited changing space). This was lucky, because the Runners World website had given the start time as 11am, but the race was actually scheduled to start at 10.30am. This seemed to have caught out quite a few people I spoke to. The race actually started at about 10.45am. The cold (3°C) rainy weather cleared just as the people were beginning to warm up, and the skies soon turned cloudy bright with glimpses of sunshine.
The Fradley 10K comprises two 5km laps around a circuit of country lanes; a bit like the lanes around Storridge but much flatter. It was when I was between the third and fourth km markers that the pace car passed by, indicating that 25 minutes had passed. This was followed by the race leader who was on about his ninth km. He was well ahead of the chasing pack, many of whom were Coventry Godiva Harriers. Soon after that, several packs of snorting males passed me; I never realised before what a noisy sport running can be! The first whippet-like female runner passed when I’d reached about 4.5km.
The event was easy to get to, well signed, with plenty of parking. An official photographer was located on the route, but several people were taking photos so I didn’t know which one to grin at. Race photos can be purchased on-line, later, apparently. My only criticisms of the event would be that several people seemed to be wandering around confused at the start, wondering whether you needed to register (you didn’t) and also looking for signs indicating where the start line was (these were hidden by groups of people hanging around). Also, when I was half-way through my run the marshals were picking up discarded plastic cups and ignoring the tail-end runners. I was confused about which direction to go to start my second lap. I ended up setting out in the wrong direction, which was annoying. Race numbers had timing devices in them. I didn’t find out my official time at the event, but I’m hoping to find it out later on-line. I know it was about 1:15. Now to get it down to under an hour...
Thanks, Tina
Ironbridge Half Marathon 13/3/11 by Vikki Sivertsen
Driving to Telford in the rain knowing the course was multi terrain didn’t leave me with great hopes of a PB. However, the rain stopped and the sun started to shine as we set off. This year they decided to run the course in reverse. I started really fast, first 6 miles were deceptively downhill, and I was first female at this point as numerous marshals and spectators informed me! What pressure! The route is virtually all off road with a large percentage of it following disused railway tracks through some beautiful scenery, especially along the river in Ironbridge gorge. We crossed over the Ironbridge into the small town itself and soon started the long killer climb back up out of the valley. In fact the last 6.5 miles were all uphill to the finish. I finally lost my lead at about 8.5 miles when the eventual female winner took me, it was ok, she was young enough to be my daughter! I held on and finished in second place, picked up a cheque for £40 prize money and a PB of 1:32:01 an improvement of 36 seconds, which on this course I am thrilled with. Would highly recommend this race, very friendly, beautiful scenery, loads of prizes.....but do watch out for the dinosaurs near the end.
Thanks, Vikki
Bath Half Marathon 13/3/11 by Jayne Ackroyd
This is the second time I have run this race and I still have mixed feelings about it. With 11,000 entrants, no chance of a hotel room and tricky parking in Bath, it means a very early start from Malvern (7:45am for us for an 11.00am race start). So getting the food intake correct is a challenge as breakfast is just a bit too early and supplementary bananas are required!
However, the park and ride at the Racecourse was smooth, the Runners Village OK but it was quite a walk to get there (and there were long queues for the loos unless you knew where to look (thanks Sam!)). So it all felt like bit of a performance until I reached the start pen.
From there everything was perfect! I was in pen B with most of the Joggers - although Dr Jackson and Mr Sewell qualified as elites and could have gone in pen A. It was a small pen, very near the start line and only ~15 secs after the gun that we crossed the line, so no traffic problems. It’s a two lap course with one hill up through Queen's Square followed by small undulations out to the turning point and a steady downhill back. I flew through the first 4 miles, chatting with Alison and then Carl. As I crossed 10k with Carl, with Alison close behind, I realised that I was about 1 1/2 mins inside my 10k PB and tried not to think about how much it was going to hurt later! The second lap wasn't quite as smooth and at about 10M I really could have talked myself out of it, but I made the most of the crowd support in the last 2 miles (name on vest was well worthwhile - lots of shouts) and was unbelievably chuffed to finish under 1:40 for the first time, taking over 3 mins off my previous PB.
Its a fair, fast course and there were many fantastic performances and a hatful of PBs by the MJs at Bath. To the best of my knowledge this is the full list - apologies to anyone I've missed:
Nigel Sewell 1:22:56 PB (that's ridiculously fast - well done!), Phil Jackson 1:32:59, Jerry Greer 1:34:28, Ian Dyson 1:34:39, Carl Anthony 1:38:03, Jayne Ackroyd 1:39:48 PB, Alison Merley 1:41:16, Amanda Duncan
1:42:39 PB (by 10 mins), Carolyne Sanders 1:42:59 PB (first half marathon!), Kareen Mann 1:44:10 PB, Megz Judge 1:50:15, Lynda Walford 1:51:02 PB (by 17 mins), Viv Tolley 2:00:26 PB (by 13 mins), Sue Sharp 2:06:36, Sam Carrington 2:09:28, Sarah Grout 2:14:21, Jo Haynes 2:19:02 PB, Sheila Jackson 2:29:26 PB.
And will I be back, given my reservations? Probably!
Thanks, Jayne

Malvern Ultra 2011
From Stuart Brown - Steve Ollis and I would like your support to enter a team or two from Malvern Joggers for the second running of this event. It’s a team relay over 50+ miles to raise money for ‘Help for Heroes’. The date is Saturday 7th May so fits in well for those that will have done the London marathon and those that will be doing Edinburgh. There are six stages and the route is exactly the same as last year and the good news is it starts at 9.00 am, so that last leg should arrive mid evening. The route is:
Top Barn to Diglis Hotel 6.6 miles
Diglis to Rose & Crown, Severn Stoke 9.58 mile
Crown to Malvern Hills Hotel 11.6 miles
MHH to New Inn, Storridge 6.6 miles
New Inn to Crown Inn Martley 9.93 miles
Martley to Holt Castle 7.43 miles
The team relay costs £35 per person but remember it is for a fantastic cause. For more details Google Malvern Hills Ultra. If you would like to join the MJ Ultra team, talk to Steve O or Stuart B
Following the amazing £2,700 raised last year the target for Malvern Ultra 2011 is £5,000. All (100%) the money goes to Help for Heroes, there’s no profit making from the fundraising or any administration charges taken away.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 16/3 Club Night MSJ 7pm & MJs Red Nose Day Bakerthon Cake Sale – Nags Head
Fri 18/3 BPJ Charity Quiz Nite at Perdiswell Leisure Centre
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Thu 24/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sat 2/4 Jon Green’s Bacon Buttie Birthday Run
Sun 3/4 Chedworth Roman Trail
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 10/4 Eastnor 7
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Weekly Reminders
Be safe, be seen! Wear something white or florescent on the dark nights
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 2 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email.
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know.
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website
At the request of the management of MSJ…….Please do not to park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.

Happy running, The Cheesy one

Chris's Blog from 06 March 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Malvern Ultra 2011
From Stuart Brown - Steve Ollis and I would like your support to enter a team or two from Malvern Joggers for the second running of this event. It’s a team relay over 50+ miles to raise money for ‘Help for Heroes’. The date is Saturday 7th May so fits in well for those that will have done the London marathon and those that will be doing Edinburgh.
There are six stages and the route is exactly the same as last year and the good news is it starts at 9.00 am, so that last leg should arrive mid evening. The route is:
Top Barn to Diglis Hotel 6.6 miles
Diglis to Rose & Crown, Severn Stoke 9.58 mile
Crown to Malvern Hills Hotel 11.6 miles
MHH to New Inn, Storridge 6.6 miles
New Inn to Crown Inn Martley 9.93 miles
Martley to Holt Castle 7.43 miles
The team relay costs £35 per person but remember it is for a fantastic cause. For more details Google Malvern Hills Ultra.
If you would like to join the MJ Ultra team, talk to Steve O or Stuart B
Following the amazing £2,700 raised last year the target for Malvern Ultra 2011 is £5,000. All (100%) the money goes to Help for Heroes, there’s no profit making from the fundraising or any administration charges taken away.

Race Reports
BMAF indoor track and field championships at Lee Valley Stadium, London 25/2/11 by Barry Swindells
One way of guaranteeing a dry and wind free weekends running was to take part in the BMAF indoor track a field championships at Lee Valley Stadium, London.
These meetings are just like the indoor athletics you see on TV - blue track, sharp bends and lots of lights but a tadge slower than on the box, and with a lot more participants. This year attracted 570 competitors from V35 to V85.
The big problem is the major exposure, good crowds close to the track and nowhere to hide should things go wrong.
I ran the 1500 metres on the Saturday, which was a combined race with the V65 and V70 sharing the same race. The grand plan was to run each of the 200 metres at 45.00 sec. (easy with the large digital clock at the side of the track!!), this would give me a V70 PB of 5:40.
Got a pretty good start from the gun, found myself in third place overall and thinking I should not be there amoungst the V65 gang. I was relieved to see the clock only showing 67secs for the first lap and a half (on target). I was passed by a third V65 as the race progressed but the V65's proved to be ideal pace makers for me, my time at 900 metres was 2:22. I caught the third V65 on the finish line but he pipped me by .05sec so fourth overall. On target, time 5:40.12 and first Vet 70.
Unfortunately, something had upset my stomach overnight (definitely not booze), so with little sleep, feeling a bit green and still stiff even after a cold shower - Sunday dawned and it was the 800 meters. Target time was 40.00secs per lap but thought I would be lucky to finish. The race was listed as V70+. I was favourite and took the lead from the gun, forgot the clock, set a steady pace and hoped for the best. No one challenged and I finished first V70 in 2:52.58 ( 43 secs/lap).
So the green Malvern J's vest came good at the British Championships.
Incidentally in the same race John Shirley, 1968 Olympic Games silver medallist in the Hurdles, won the V80 race in a new British Record time of 3:35.
Thanks, Barry
Longmynd Valleys English Championship Fell Race, Sun 6th March, by Richard Love.
A few hardy joggers stayed away from the Bath Half and instead headed north to Church Stretton for the 11.5 mile 4,500ft ascent Longmynd Valleys Fell Race. Joggers attending were myself, Lisa Dainty, Steve Roode, Jon Bristow and Neil Williams. This was a tougher course than I expected, after about six fairly straight forward miles all hell breaks lose at the end with a series of increasingly steep and long climbs on what felt like sponges, which was excellent for fast descents but hell for going up. Without full results available online I'm not sure exactly how we all did, Jon was predictably the fastest jogger, followed, some way behind by myself (about 2 hours 20ish) with Roodie chasing my tail (I think 2hours 25ish). Lisa finshed her first fell race very respectably in under three hours. Unfortunately Neil pulled out early on after sustaining an injury following a fall while jumping a river, hoping for a swift recovery. Other local interest was Jon Newey sporting a new yellow Mercia Fell Runners vest beating all his old club mates. A great day, cool dry and excellent visibility essential for the "follow the guy in front navigators", a very strong strong field including most of the Lake District due to this being an English Championship race this year. Sitting here with all sorts of painful things going on in muscles I didn't even know I had it's hard to explain why I enjoyed it, but I did.
I arrived at the inaugural Droitwich Half Marathon with half an hour to spare keen to improve on my previous half marathon time a fortnight ago at Dorney Lake, Eton (4 laps of the Lake – very boring!) Car parking at Gaudet Luce Golf Club, Droitwich was a little chaotic to say the least. I made my way to the start and was pleased to see a familiar face in the ‘Big Cheese’! The start was also a bit disorganised but I shan’t dwell on these, as they were minor issues.
Thanks, Richard
Droitwich Half Marathon 6/3/11 by Catriona Robinson
Chris and I ran together for the first couple of miles but then I was hit with a terrible stitch. Having not suffered from this before I shared my agony with Chris who gave me some good advice and then disappeared into the distance. I then spent the next 5 miles running with my hand pushed into my tummy in a bid to get rid of it. All hopes of improving on my time were slipping away with every stride I took so I told myself that this was a training run for London marathon and that all needed to do was finish.
At mile 8, we crossed the railway line for the second time and began to climb a hill (the course was actually very flat and absolutely beautiful). Then I saw the Big Cheese stop and turn around and wave at me! I’d either managed to go faster than I’d thought, or he’d slowed. Either way, this really motivated me, so thank you Chris. At around mile 10-11 I’d caught Chris up and started to push for the finish line situated back at the Golf Course. When I crossed the finish line the clock said 01:56:07 however due to my starting at the back of the field my Garmin reading was 01:55:46. I had managed to knock 2 mins off my half marathon time a fortnight ago and was therefore delighted. It was lovely to see Duncan and Jayne at the end too. Congratulations to Duncan on his PB and a huge thanks to Chris for spurring me on, thank you! I would definitely recommend this event to everyone, as it had the prettiest scenery on quiet country lanes and marshalling for the most part was excellent.
Thanks, Cat
Droitwich Half Marathon 6/3/11 by Duncan Cresswell
This morning was the inaugural Droitwich Half marathon. I say this morning, it actually started at 12pm, which is a strange time to start I suppose. It may have been described as flat and from listening to people’s responses around the course, they were led to believe that, but I had the feeling that it was going to be undulating. It was. However, it was such a beautiful course that it didn’t matter at all. Regardless of final finishing time, I have to say I have not enjoyed a half marathon quite as much as this one. There were plenty of runners there to make it feel like a race, but at the same time, you could distance yourself from it and pretend you were just out for a gentle jog around the country. A couple of issues need to be addressed for next year’s race, but for a first attempt I think Droitwich AC pulled it off. At the finish you received a T-shirt, chocy bar, water and sandwich …. What more could you ask for? In the end I came away with a PB of 1:45:37 (3mins 30 ish better than previous PB) no thanks to a pain in my foot for the final 2 miles. Catriona, Big Cheese and Peter Wilson were also there – results not available yet. Definitely one for next year, and whilst it’s not flat and full of thousands of people, you can get a good time and have a good time whilst saving money on expensive fuel …. I spent it in the pub instead ? Congrats to Bath runners!
Thanks, Dunc
Droitwich Half Marathon 6/3/11 by Chris Barker
Here are a few thoughts on this morning’s event..... It was my first one as an MV60, a really good addition to the half marathon calendar and a good warm-up for anyone doing the LM. Four MJs where running, me, Cat, Dunc and Peter Wilson. I found myself parking in a muddy field which was not good for the golf club carpet but at least the weather was kind to us. Well done to Cat who found herself suffering the stitch after about 2 miles. This is the point where I pulled away from her but she battled back from this, despite still suffering from the aforementioned problem, to pass me at 11 miles and finish with a PB.
Regarding the terrain, this is where I have to disagree with Dunc and say it was a fairly flat run with nothing that I would call a hill and I’m certainly not the best at doing hills (hill training? Er not me!)
It would have been good to see a few more MJs but some had already committed themselves to other events and the response to this was so good that it was closed to entries well before the day of the event. I’m sure it will reappear next year so get those entries in asap. I will let everyone know about it as soon as I do. I’m sure Bath Half proved a memorable experience but no need to go to Somerset (or is it Avon) my dears!

Charity Appeal 1
From the British Heart Foundation - Wyre Forest Jog
The British Heart Foundation are organising a 5km run, jog or walk on the 13th March 2011 starting at 11am. I was wondering if your running club would be interested in taking part? All the details are available at www.bhf.org.uk/wyre its a great day out, will be great training and the nest of all – your helping save the nations hearts!
If you have any questions or queries please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kindest regards, Jemma Curran - Regional Events Organiser Central England
British Heart Foundation, Cannon House, 2255 Coventry Road, Sheldon, Birmingham, B26 3NX
T: 0121 722 8353, M: 07702677721

Charity Appeal 2 - International Women’s day and Refuge’s 40th birthday
Forwarded message - Next week, on March 8th, help recognise the centenary of International Women’s day and Refuge’s 40th birthday by signing up to take part in the BUPA 10,000. Every day Refuge supports 1,600 women and children in one of its 45 refuges and through its specialist services. Founded in 1971 Refuge has grown from a small charity operating the world’s very first refuge in Chiswick, west London, to become the country’s largest single provider of emergency accommodation and specialist support for women and children experiencing domestic violence. We are committed to a world in which domestic violence is not tolerated or ignored. Without the support from dedicated runners we simply could not function.
The BUPA London 10,000 10k, taking place on May 30th, has a fantastic atmosphere and takes in some of the best views that London has to offer. Beginning in Birdcage Walk, the race passes Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye, and much more besides. What’s more, the route will form part of the 2012 Olympic Marathon course (but will involve much less pain!).
Public places for this run ran out really quickly, but Refuge does have some places for its valued supporters. We will be asking all runners who take up a Refuge place to pledge to raise £300 for our life changing and life saving work, and we will also ask for a non-refundable £20 deposit. Please do get in touch if you would like to discuss this or take part.
We also have some places in the Royal Parks half marathon in October and the Adidas 5k in September. If either of these events appeals please do get in touch.
At Refuge, our runners are very important to us as the money they raise makes up a vital part of our fundraising activity. We will do everything we can to support you every step of the way. We offer a free Refuge t shirt or professional running vest, a training plan, a full running pack containing training, nutrition and fundraising advice, a free online fundraising page and one-to-one support from our Refuge team.
As a valued supporter of our work, you will know that domestic violence is a serious crime which kills up to two women every week in England and Wales. By running for Refuge, you will be helping us to save lives and to change lives. Thank you for your support.
For more information, please get in touch with Jessica on 020 7395 7713 or jessoca_madeley@refuge.org.uk
To join our team, please complete the attached form and return it to jessica_madeley@refuge.org.uk as soon as possible. Jessica Madeley, Senior Individuals and Events Fundraiser, Refuge T. 020 7395 7713 www.refuge.org.uk

Red Nose Day with Amanda and Lynda
From Amanda and Lynda.....
It’s very nearly Red Nose Day and we have had an idea.
We all know the Malvern Joggers are simply the best at running but what about their baking skills???
Well its time to put it to the test.....with the Malvern Joggers BAKERTHON!
We need you to bake a cake, doesn't matter what it is. Just bring it along to The Nags Head on Wednesday 16th March where we have arranged to hold a cake sale. You don't have to be a Malvern Jogger to join us.
More details on timings etc to follow.
If you have any further questions or you need a bit of advice on cake baking then get in touch with Lynda Walford or Amanda Duncan. You can find us on Facebook or catch up with us on a Wednesday night.
So come on get your aprons on, dust off your cookery books, turn your ovens on and get baking!!
Thanks, Amanda and Lynda

Carl Flint’s Malvern Hills Guide Book. Book 3
From Carl.....I have been busy with the next Malvern hills guide book. Book 3 covers Malvern Wells, Little Malvern, Welland, British Camp, Castlemorton and Hollybed Commons and White Leafed Oak. There are 6 walks I would like help with. As previously with books 1 and 2 any volunteers will be acknowledged in the book and will receive a free copy on publication.
What's involved? A volunteer to sign up for one or more of the walks listed below. To walk / jog it from the text supplied (no pictures). Identify any errors, issues and suggestions to improve upon the content. Feedback to me by the end of March at the latest.
I am particularly looking for expertise with trees and shrubs with walk 7 which is in fact the MJ's 10k.
Walk 6 Malvern Wells to the Three Counties Showground, returning via the Holy Well.
Little Malvern Priory historical background
Walk 7 Welland to Little Malvern Priory, including the Gullet Quarry and Castlemorton Common.
Walk 8 Hollybed Common to Midsummer Hill returning via the Gullet Quarry
The Legend of Raggedstone Hill
Walk 9 Hollybush to White Leafed Oak and Raggedstone Hill
Walk 10 Hollybush to Eastnor Castle
History of British Camp and Red Earls dyke
Walk 11 British Camp car park to Elgar’s Grave, Little Malvern Priory and returning via the summit of British Camp.
Walk 12 British Camp car park to the summit, Walms Well, Swinyard Hill, Gullet Quarry, Midsummer Hill, Castlemorton Common
If anyone is interested the please email me on info@malvernwalks.co.uk and I will send them the text.
Many thanks, Carl

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 9/3 Club Night MSJ – 7pm
Thu 10/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Wed 16/3 MJs Red Nose Day Bakerthon Cake Sale – Nags Head
Fri 18/3 BPJ Charity Quiz Nite at Perdiswell Leisure Centre
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Thu 24/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sun 3/4 Chedworth Roman Trail
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 10/4 Eastnor 7
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sat 7/5 Malvern Ultra 2011
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Weekly Reminders
Be safe, be seen! Wear something white or florescent on the dark nights
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 2 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email.
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know.
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website
At the request of the management of MSJ…….Please do not to park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.

Happy running, The Cheesy one

Chris's Blog from 27 February 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Some Items from Chairman Stuart......
Cross Country - Three ladies and four men, just enough to make a ladies and a mens team, went to the final cross country of the winter at Presteign this morning. We arrived at the race in plenty of time to sample the various shortbread, brownies and rock buns that various MJ’s had brought along for the usual post race refreshments and then jogged as far as the start for warm up. The single lap race started at 11.00 with the ladies doing 4 miles and the men about six. Large sections of the course were shared and ran round forestry tracks and trails including several good climbs and steep slippery descents. As expected there was plenty of mud and spikes were worn to good effect by those who had them.
Emma Gooderham and Ruth Johnstone were first and third lady respectively in today’s race.
After a quick shower at the sports centre everyone met at the village hall for the winter series results and prize giving. The Malvern Joggers did very well. Our ladies team, which consisted today of Emma, Ruth and Sarah Pickerell, but has included lots of other MJ ladies at other races, won the overall ladies team prize. Emma and Ruth were also first ladies in their respective age categories. Ian Dyson was second in the 55+ category and I was third (for regular attendance I think).
Congratulations to all the ladies who ran in the various races over the winter and helped to bring the winners shield to Malvern. Thanks to Jon Green and Ian Dyson for driving today and Sam Burnage who joined us for his first cross country. Special thanks to Nick whose idea it was to join the cross country league and who just got on with the organisation and made it happen.
We will be taking part in the summer league too, which takes place once a month on a Wednesday evening. If you fancy something different come have a go.
Last Wednesday - One of our runners, Martin, had a nasty fall last Wednesday night which ended up with a visit to the new hospital. The group he was with were brilliant and looked after him really well. Special thanks to Jude, Grouty, Julie Caseley and the others in the group. Martin is making a good recovery and should be back with us on Wednesday.
This accident has made us think again about running safely and we will be making some improvements to how we organise our runs. If you have any suggestions, then please talk to one of the committee.
Spring Marathons; so far I’m aware of 28 MJ’s that are planning to run a marathon this spring. Including Duncan Cresswell who is planning to do five marathons in five days in May!

Red Nose Day with Amanda and Lynda
It’s very nearly Red Nose Day and we have had an idea.
We all know the Malvern Joggers are simply the best at running but what about their baking skills???
Well its time to put it to the test.....with the Malvern Joggers BAKERTHON!
We need you to bake a cake, doesn't matter what it is. Just bring it along to The Nags Head on Wednesday 16th March where we have arranged to hold a cake sale. You don't have to be a Malvern Jogger to join us.
More details on timings etc to follow.
If you have any further questions or you need a bit of advice on cake baking then get in touch with Lynda Walford or Amanda Duncan. You can find us on Facebook or catch up with us on a Wednesday night.
So come on get your aprons on, dust off your cookery books, turn your ovens on and get baking!!
Thanks, Amanda and Lynda

Cross Country Report
From the Cross Country Meister himself, Nick ....Just a quick word on a great effort from the MJs today and over the winter to claim an impressive collection of silverware at the end of season presentation. Emma was overall women's champion, Ruth won her category ,Ian was 2nd in his and Stuart 3rd in his, but best of all the women were TEAM WINNERS, well done ladies a fine effort and the men were a creditable 4th overall. A great first season and thoroughly enjoyable thanks to all who ran, we are now looking forward to the Summer cross country where we will be targeting a win for the combined men/women's team! (first race is June-details to follow)
Please see the attachments!
Herefordshire Cross Country League Presteigne 27 February 2011 by Jon Green
Due to other events today it was a slightly depleted team of MJs that made the journey over to Presteigne for the final race in the Winter League. Nonetheless our ladies dream team of Emma, Ruth and Sarah all turned out and did us proud. Not only did they win the ladies race (Emma 1st, Ruth 3rd and Sarah 10th), they won the overall ladies team series, Emma won the individual ladies series and Ruth won her age group. For the men Ian Dyson and Stuart Brown were 2nd and 3rd respectively in their age group. Thanks to Sam Burnage who did his first race for the men's team, finished 27th and seemed to enjoy the mud, water and hills. Thanks too to all MJs who ran in the series and a special thanks to Nick for getting us involved in the League and for doing a fantastic job organising us all for each race. We can now look forward to the Summer Cross Country League!

Other Race Reports
The Treat MT8 27/2/11 by Julie Caseley
In between the sunshine and showers this morning, 4 Malvern Joggers enjoyed a very scenic nearly 8 mile run around the northern part of Stourport skirting the edge of the Wyre Forest Golf Centre then taking in Birchen Coppice and Devil's Spittleful Nature Reserve.
There was some mud and a few hills but on the whole a very pleasant run. Our intrepid 4 were Jerry Greer (1:02:54),
Julie C. (1:08:02), Chris Jolley (1:09:23) and Eric Bromage (1:15:30). I was the first in my age category so I'm now going to enjoy and glass or two of my winnings!
Thanks, Julie
Castle Combe Chilly 10k 27/2/11 by Vikki Siverton
This is a race series, the first of 3 being today. I went to the race with the intention of treating it as a speed training session for my VLM training therefore I was pretty relaxed. It is 3 and a bit laps of the race track....sounds boring I know, but as it is also pretty much flat, it was great for just getting your head down and cracking on with it...which is exactly what I did. I had a fantastic race, averaging a pace of 6:36 per mile, giving me a PB of 41:52, taking 1:07 off my previous 10k best. On top of that I finished 3rd female over all and 1st female Vet. Even better still they awarded me both prizes so have 2 engraved medals to prove it! I am thrilled to bits with this today.
Thanks, Vikki
Also from Vikki - Some of you know that Maria Liviero has recently had an operation. She is still really poorly but was hoping to return home this weekend. Unfortunately it is not likely that she will be returning to Joggers. You can send Maria good luck messages via facebook if you already have her as a friend. Once at home she will get to see these and I am sure they will be appreciated.

Attention All Gentle Joggers
From Jenny Field - PLEASE can any of you who are happy to OCCASIONALLY lead the continuous group please e-mail me on Jennifer.field@lineone.net or through the web site contact.
Leading the run would mean having in mind a 4-5 mile route round Malvern and making sure you don't lose anyone on the way round.
If you let me know any Wednesdays you will NOT be running I will draw up a rota.
Sharing out the role of leader makes it much more fun for everyone. Thanks JEN

Parking at MSJ Sports & Fitness Centre
We have received this important notice from MSJ…….We are sending this email as a polite notice to all clubs and members using the Sports Centre car park.
On Tuesday 1/2/11 there was a serious traffic accident at the Sports Centre. As a result we are asking all clubs to contact their members and kindly request them not to park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.
We are aware that our usage is slowly out growing the current car parking availability; we have submitted an application for increases car parking capacity to improve the facilities.

Membership subs
From Geoff - Thanks to all of you who have sent me your 2011 membership fees. For those who haven't done so yet, just print off the membership form attached and either send it to me (Geoff Field, The Lodge, Back Lane, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 2HJ) or bring it along on Wednesday (Club night). It is early days yet, but we are looking to maximise our chances in the ballot for next year's London Marathon and the more paid up members we have the better our chances."

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 2/3 Club Night MSJ – 7pm
Sun 6/3 Droitwich Half Marathon
Thu 10/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Fri 18/3 BPJ Charity Quiz Nite at Perdiswell Leisure Centre
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Thu 24/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sun 3/4 Chedworth Roman Trail
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 10/4 Eastnor 7
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sun 5/6 Magic Roundabout 10K (Hay-on-Wye)
Fri 17/6 Blakedown Bolt
Sun 10/7 Evesham Vale 10K
Sun 17/7 Pitchcroft 10K
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Weekly Reminders
Be safe, be seen! Wear something white or florescent on the dark nights
Mustering - run to the back of the group from time to time.
I send the Club News/Blog out in 2 emails as I only have capacity for 100 recipients on one email.
If you do a race, and I'm not doing it as well, please drop me a few lines to let me know how you got on.
If you are not on the emailing list & would like to be, or if you would like to unsubscribe, please let me know.
chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website
At the request of the management of MSJ…….Please do not to park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.

Happy running, The Cheesy one

Chris's Blog from 20 February 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Two from Stuart
The next MSJ Circuits session is this Tuesday 22nd Feb between 8.00 – 9.00 pm. There are two more sessions to come in March.
I’m pulling together a list of Joggers who are doing a spring 2011 marathon:- London, Edinburgh, Boston etc. Please send me an e-mail to let me if you’re doing one.

Cross Country
Here’s Nick ...... The last Winter Cross Country takes place on Sunday 27th February at PRESTEIGNE with the presentation of prizes after the race. The ladies barring disasters should be crowned Overall Team Winners and Emma and others are going for individual category prizes.
PLEASE send a reply to this e-mail with a simple yes or no as to whether you will be running as i will not be at Presteigne myself (dropped due to poor form !!) , so i will be handing over team organiser to someone else (thanks Jon, well volunteered!!). When i get a postcode i will forward to anyone who requests this if they intend to go direct, otherwise MEET AT MSJ 8.30 AM FOR CAR SHARE.
Many thanks, Nick Hitchings

Black Pear Joggers challenge the Malvern Joggers
From Facebook Paul.....
Gavin from The Black Pears has laid down a challenge ! Are we up to it ??
Black Pear Joggers - Challenge Malvern Joggers
OK MJ's can you rise to the challenge - BPJ Charity Quiz Nite is on Friday 18th March at Perdiswell Leisure Centre, Bilford Road Worcester - 7.30p.m for 7.45 start its to be Irish themed so fancy dress is optional.
From Gavin of the BPJs .... Always a good nite out but this time I thought it would be fun if a couple of teams from the MJ's came over to.. see if they can win the coveted "Quiz Trophy" from us and take it back to Malvern with them.
Teams can consist of up to 6 people at £5.00 per team - half the proceeds of the night go to our on-going wheelchair fund for Kit Thompson - the winning team get the other half.
So the Question is have you got the brains as well as the legs to meet this challenge???
Come & Join us for the Quiz Nite Special - Friday 18th March. Cheers Gavin
What about it guys? I know we have a few quiz experts in our ranks how about forming a team and bringing the trophy back to Malvern?
Attached you find a conference organised by a friend of us. It may be interesting for some of the Joggers.
Kind regards, Monika

Geoff's Gentle Bike Ride
From Geoff Field.....I have not been overwhelmed with responses to last week's announcement about a bike ride next Saturday (see below).
If anyone does want to ride, please let me know by close of play Wednesday, otherwise I will postpone it until warmer weather. Please e-mail me at geoff.field@lineone.net, phone 01684 578652, or just let me know on Tuesday (Circuit Training) or Wednesday evening.
"The next gentle bike ride will be on Saturday 26 February. Meet at Malvern St. James at 10:30 for a ride to Ledbury for lunch in the Cameeron & Swan's cafe and then return via Eastnor and Hollybush to get back by around 16:00. Some hills involved (particularly the Wyche Cutting), but after the last run I am confident that everyone will be able to make it and the pace will be adjusted to suit - walking is permitted".

MCAA Saucony Road Relay Championships
From Julie Caseley.......I have entry forms for the MCAA Saucony Road Relay Championships to be held at Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield on Saturday, 10 March 2011. There is the Senior Men's 12 stage and the Masters Men's 6 stage road relays (minimum age 35 on the day of competition). I also have an entry form for the Women's Midland Counties AA 6 stage road relays championships. If anyone is interested, please email me.

Race Reports
Liversedge Half Marathon - 13th Feb by Jayne Ackroyd
"Where's Liversedge?" I hear you ask. It’s in God's own county of West Yorkshire, close to the delightful towns of Cleckheaton and Heckmondwike, and more familiarly Leeds, Bradford and Huddersfield. Its also about 3 miles from my parents house, so it would have been really rude not to race it.
Badged as 'hilly' but highly rated by Runner's World, I thought it would be a good test. However, I hadn't bargained for the rain and the wind as well!
Excellently organised & with very encouraging marshalls and just over 400 participants, the course contained three significant uphills, two steep downhill sections and plenty of other undulations! But the scenery and views from the higher sections of the course made it all worthwhile. I paced the race reasonably well and coped with the hills OK until the last few undulations in the last half mile when I started to flag. I was very happy with a time of 1:47:35, finishing 5th in my age category, and I would definitely do it again. However, it did take my legs over two days before they felt like my own again!
Thanks, Jayne

Bath Half Marathon race places available
Val Tuckley - I would like you to offer my Bath Half Marathon place to anyone who would like it.
Contact me on 07929515844 or through Facebook
Ginny Sharp - Bath half marathon place up for grabs. Email me on ginnysharp@btinternet.com if you are interested. Please note..... I will be out of the country between 22nd Feb to 1st March and may not be able to pick up e-mails

Attention All Gentle Joggers
From Jenny Field - PLEASE can any of you who are happy to OCCASIONALLY lead the continuous group please e-mail me on Jennifer.field@lineone.net or through the web site contact.
Leading the run would mean having in mind a 4-5 mile route round Malvern and making sure you don't loose anyone on the way round.
If you let me know any Wednesdays you will NOT be running I will draw up a rota.
Sharing out the role of leader makes it much more fun for everyone. Thanks JEN

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tue 22/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Wed 23/2 Club Night MSJ – 7pm
Sat 26/2 Geoff's Field’s Gentle Bike Ride. Meet MSJ, 10.30am
Sun 27/2 Cross Country at Presteigne
Sun 27/2 Treat MT8
Sun 27/2 Bourton 10K
Sun 6/3 Droitwich Half Marathon
Thu 10/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Fri 18/3 BPJ Charity Quiz Nite at Perdiswell Leisure Centre
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Thu 24/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 10/4 Eastnor 7
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

chris@malvernjoggers.co.uk
Please see the Risk Assessments on our website
At the request of the management of MSJ…….Please do not to park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.

Happy running, Big Cheese

Chris's Blog from 13 February 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Welcome Home Derek
From Geoff Field - Many of you will have heard that Derek Goodman was rushed to hospital last week after suffering a cerebral haemorrhage. The good news is that he came home yesterday and although weakened by the experience is his usual cheerful self. Unfortunately, Derek will not be able to run for a few months, so we will miss out on his indefatigable leadership skills for a while. I am sure will all wish a speedy recovery.
Derek and Ros send their thanks for the card and flowers sent by Malvern Joggers".
And from Derek Himself.....
Ros and I were very sorry to miss the 60th Birthday celebratory run arranged by Chris Barker, followed by breakfast and cake, but were delighted to hear everyone had an enjoyable time.
Having survived a cerebral aneurysm (bleed on brain), a condition apparently only one in four manage to survive, I am now back home convalescing (it's tiring work watching Ros run around catering to my every whim!). This is likely to be a long and slow process, with no running permitted for at least six months. I will however attend for the odd post-run drink on a Wednesday once my medication permits, and no doubt I will turn up to support fellow club members at the odd race or two.
In the meantime I wanted to thank everyone for their kind wishes and cards etc., and for all the offers of help and support given to myself and Ros - I'm proud to be a member of such a 'special' Club.
Best wishes to all, Derek Goodman

Ballot for Club Social Commitee
From our Chairman Stuart - Voting for the three members of the social committee closed on Friday night.
There were five excellent candidates and we are really grateful that they were all prepared to put themselves forward and stand for election.
Congratulations to the three people who received the most votes; Sheila Jackson, Andy Milton and Ginny Sharp. They will take the lead in coming up with a programme of social events for the year.
Commiserations to Julie Mitchell and Gill McCann who were not elected.
I would like to take the opportunity of recording the Clubs thanks to Jules for all the hard work she has put into helping organise many of the socials in the past. I hope that Jules and Gill won’t be too disappointed and will continue to get involved in the future.

Geoff's Gentle Bike Ride
Geoff again - The next gentle bike ride will be on Saturday 26 February. Meet at Malvern St. James at 10:30 for a ride to Ledbury for lunch in the Cameeron & Swan's cafe and then return via Eastnor and Hollybush to get back by around 16:00. Some hills involved (particularly the Wyche Cutting), but after the last run I am confident that everyone will be able to make it and the pace will be adjusted to suit - walking is permitted".

Attention All Gentle Joggers
From Jenny Field - PLEASE can any of you who are happy to OCCASIONALLY lead the continuous group please e-mail me on Jennifer.field@lineone.net or through the web site contact.
Leading the run would mean having in mind a 4-5 mile route round Malvern and making sure you don't loose anyone on the way round.
If you let me know any Wednesdays you will NOT be running I will draw up a rota.
Sharing out the role of leader makes it much more fun for everyone. Thanks JEN

Circuit Training Sessions
From Stuart - We have added two extra Circuit Training Sessions for Malvern Joggers this winter between 8.00 – 9.00 pm at Malvern St James. The 3 dates are: Tuesday 22nd February and Thursdays 10th and 24th March.
Please note the new dates are Thursdays.
Next winter we are booking a regular fortnightly Circuit Training Session on Thursday at MSJ between October and March.

Get Yer Skates On!
Apparently, Malvern now has an Ice Skating venue called Malvern Ice Quest and it’s in Spring Lane. One of our runners has suggested to me that it might be a good venue for a club social!
Details can be found on the website ... www.icequestmalvern.co.uk

Thunder 24 hour Race
Message from Paul Newman - Could anyone with outstanding race entry fees please let me have them asap - thanks Paul

Help Required
Can anyone help this runner who goes by the name of Spacedoggy .......
hi you don't happen to know of a runner (fairly fit) who runs with two dogs on a harness? He ran past our house in hanley swan last week and must have dropped part of his mp3 player without noticing.
spaceddoggy@btinternet.com

Forthcoming Race – Brummie’s 10K Burn 13/3/11
Andy Dickenson says..... I spotted this, off road 10K just the other side of Hereford on 13th March. Not sure if this is on the radar so thought you might like to share it.
Entry form attached

Running for the Rainforest
From Kitty Jenkin of ‘Cool Earth’ to the Malvern Joggers .... I am writing on behalf of Cool Earth, a unique rainforest charity, to see if Malvern Joggers may be interested in running to save the Amazon rainforest!
Last year Cool Earth had a significant amount of rainforest saved by runners, with great interest and excitement, so we decided to get in contact to see if your club may also want to become involved.
By way of background, Cool Earth protects some of the world's most endangered rainforest by working directly with indigenous communities. With projects in Brazil, Ecuador and Peru we are currently protecting 199, 173 acres of rainforest that would otherwise have been destroyed.
I am aware that there are so many worthwhile causes for people to dedicate their running efforts towards- but if I may say a few words as to why Cool Earth is particularly unique and exciting -
Over 90p of every £1 donated to Cool Earth goes directly to our partnership projects. This money also does far more than the already crucial job of protecting threatened rainforest by ensuring local communities have a sustainable alternative to logging, safeguarding the immense biodiversity of the rainforest and being the most effective way of fighting climate change. A single acre of rainforest stores 260 tonnes of CO2.
Cool Earth will set up an account for either an entire club, or individual runners, which will plot the amount of rainforest that they protect. They can even view the exact area that they have saved through google maps. This means that the runners can see precisely what and where the money they are raising is going towards. This has proven to be a really good way to engage people in any fundraising efforts.
The smallest donation can make a tangible difference to the work we do. Just £1 will keep an endangered rainforest tree standing whilst £30 can protect half an acre of pristine rainforest.
We would be delighted if your club or any of your members may be interested in becoming involved with Cool Earth and we would give you much support and our unrivalled enthusiasm in every way possible. If you would like more information please do not hesitate to contact me.
Looking forward to hearing from you, Kind regards, Kitty Jenkin, PR Officer, Cool Earth, Opie Building
Trevenson Road, Pool TR15 3RD, www.coolearth.org Registered Charity: 1117978

Race Reports
Icebreaker, Eastnor, 6/2/11 by Sophie Blandford
This was the inaugural Duathlon for the Mudrunner race series which kicked off on a mild and blustery Sunday morning with not a inch of ice in sight! The format was a 10k run over the classic mudrunner course, followed by a 20k offroad bike and then a 3k run. A hardy group of 100+ men and 10ish ladies set off at a steady pace running through the village before embarking in a long uphill slog through the scenic woods and farmland in eastnor, the course had new additions to its usual route which kept it cleaner that usual but before long we hit the deep water/mud filled pits that we all know and love! We squelched back into the Landrover car park extremely slimy and with legs like jelly, launched ourselves into the bike transition which was pretty slick and before long we were heading up along the ridgeway and into more mudfilled pits! Even the best of us were carrying our bikes while wading waist high in brown water! Finally we were back on the hardstuff and some gnarly downhills and grassy uphills which pushed our legs and lungs to the limit. My relief on turning for home was unbelievable, just a painful waddle round the castle grounds and through a stream to finish. This was a tough challenge which took me 2hrs55 to finish (3rd female 32 overall TBC) but a lot of fun and having completed all three events in the series I am now officially a Mud Master!!
Thanks, Sophie
Muddy Woody 6, 13/3/11 by Julie Caseley
OMG. What a morning. The race HQ was a couple of tents in Haugh Wood, which although we arrived fairly early, were quite wet inside but at least provided shelter from the cold, wind and rain. The parking arrangements were inventive – too bad if you arrived last and wanted to leave early!! The Muddy Woody was billed as approximately
6 miles (6.28 actually) on undulating forest track, footpaths and trails.
One person’s idea of “undulating” is someone else’s hills. With the rain and 297 pairs of feet, it didn’t take long for the tracks, footpaths and trails to become extremely muddy which added to the entertainment along with the obstacles in the form of tree roots, rocks and stones. Well done to all 11 Malvern Joggers who took part in this challenging event – John Bristow, Andy Dickenson, Richard Love, Nick Hitchings, Steve Roode, Simon Hurst, Julie Caseley, Lisa Dainty, Alison Hughes, Duncan Cresswell and Linda Walford. I did this race 3 years ago and couldn’t remember the course at all – there’s probably a reason for that but at least I improved my time by 3:37. A good quality t-shirt at the finish as well as tea/coffee and a doughnut – fantastic!!
Thanks, Julie

MJs Next Social - Friday, February 18 at 7:30pm
Curry Night !! Location: Tilla Indian restaurant

The following items appeared in last week’s CN but are still relevant and worth another read I’m sure .......

Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race - 30/31st July
News from Paul (Sundance) Newman.... We currently have two full 8 man teams representing The Malvern Joggers in this year’s 24 hour Thunder relay race.
The Malvern Joggers "Cream" team And Nicks B team
Steve Roode Nick Hitchins
Paul Newman Stuart Brown
Alison Hughes was (Buttle) Tabitha Luke
Lynda Walford Kareen Mann
Amanda Duncan Amanda Dawson
Jude Newman Andy Banham
Megz Judge Bradley Crouch
Catriona Robinson Lucy Prosser
The team includes A sports coach, a fitness instructor, a lady to give us all sports massage, a Aussie to manage the BBQ, we've even got the Bog roll Lady !
Thanks to everyone else who showed an interest, in case of injuries between now and July 31st a few joggers have said they would like to be on the reserve list.
Steve Ollis, Jimmy Apps, Ginny Sharp, Caroline Saunders, Andy Milton, Ian, we might yet need you ! However if we get enough interest to form a 3rd 8 man team ..... ! Check out www.tr24.co.uk for details.
If anyone hasn't paid there £27.50 race fee could they let me have it asap, many thanks Paul

Malvern Joggers trophy cabinet at MSJ.
From our Chairman Stuart........We have been looking at the possibility of having a trophy cabinet at MSJ for some time now.
MSJ have taken up the idea and are asking some of their other clubs too and will co-ordinate the purchase.
The cabinet that MSJ have provisionally chosen is shown on the link below and costs £600+.
http://www.accessdisplays.co.uk/product_info.php?products_id=3114
If anyone knows a source of better or cheaper trophy cabinets please let me know?

from Roodie
I am planning to do the Amsterdam Marathon later on in the year October 16th. If anyone else is interested in joining me then please let me know – it is a PB course!!! You don’t have to run the Marathon to come along, I have been told there are some great sights to see there.
Cheers, Steve

Edinburgh Marathon training
Andy Milton – As part of the Edinburgh Marathon training, we will be doing speed training on a wednesday evening meeting at MSJ as normal. The training is aimed towards completing a sub 4 hour marathon and as it is the first week it will be a steady progression . It will also incorporate warm up and cool down sessions and all Joggers are welcome to come and join us. Cheers, Andy

Jayne's Tues Night Speed Training
From Jayne - The Tuesday night speed training sessions are proving so popular this year that the group has now reached the maximum size that I feel is manageable and safe. So unfortunately I am now having to close the group to any new runners.
Anyone who has attended at least one of the first three sessions is still welcome to attend on an ongoing basis (If you have been to one of these sessions and have not received an email from me about it this weekend, please get on touch via email or Facebook as I have inadvertently overlooked you!)

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 16/2 MSJ – 7pm
Fri 18/2 MJs Curry Night – Tilla Indian Restaurant, Malvern Link 7.30pm
Tue 22/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sat 26/2 Geoff's Field’s Gentle Bike Ride. Meet MSJ, 10.30am
Sun 27/2 Treat MT8
Sun 27/2 Bourton 10K
Sun 6/3 Droitwich Half Marathon
Thu 10/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Thu 24/3 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Sun ??? Eastnor 7
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon
Sat & Sun 30&31/7 Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race
Sat 8/10 Beacon Race
Sun 16/10 Amsterdam Marathon (see Roodie)

Happy running, Big Cheese

Chris's Blog from 6 February 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Parking at MSJ Sports & Fitness Centre
We have received this important notice from MSJ…….We are sending this email as a polite notice to all clubs and members using the Sports Centre car park.
On Tuesday 1/2/11 there was a serious traffic accident at the Sports Centre. As a result we are asking all clubs to contact their member and kindly request them not to park on the curve on the entrance to the car park. Cars parked along this section are obstructing the flow of traffic entering and exiting the site.
We are aware that our usage is slowly out growing the current car parking availability; we have submitted an application for increases car parking capacity to improve the facilities.

Ballot for Club Social Commitee
From our Secretary Geoff – Further to my recent e-mail, we now have 5 nominations for the Social Committee, for which 3 committee members are required. The nominees are:
Sheila Jackson, Gillian MCann, Andy Milton, Jules Mitchell, Ginny Sharp
The 3 committee members will be chosen by members of the Club (i.e. those who have paid a membership subscription in 2011, or who subscribed in 2010 but have not yet renewed their subscription).
Selection will be by a simple majority of votes cast - the three nominees receiving the highest number of votes will be elected. In the event of a tie, the decision of the General Committee of the Club will decide.
To take part in the ballot, simply reply to this e-mail naming no more than 3 of the nominees for whom you wish to cast a vote. Votes for more than 3 nominees will be discounted altogether.
Replies should be returned not later than Friday 11 February and the results will be circulated on Sunday 13th.
As a reminder, a copy of the Terms of Reference for the Social Committee is attached.

Race Place Available – Muddy Woody
Judy Maund has a spare entry for the Muddy Woody on Sun 13th Feb if anyone is interested.
You can contact her on judy@funhairstuff.plus.com or 01905 356281 also 07948 356894

A pair from Roodie
We have a Disco at Upper Sapey Golf Club next Friday 11th February in aid of The Lily Foundation (Shags Bike Ride Fund) Tickets are £5 and it promises to be a great night – let me know if you intend to come along as I have to arrange transportation.
I am planning to do the Amsterdam Marathon later on in the year October 16th. If anyone else is interested in joining me then please let me know – it is a PB course!!! You don’t have to run the Marathon to come along, I have been told there are some great sights to see there.
Cheers, Steve

Plumber Required
From MJ Stuart Day ...... Looking for a plumber / heating engineer to service my boiler (Alpha CD50) and repair (I think it is a leak from diverter valve motor assembly). Wilton Road, Malvern - call 560310 (Stuart or Louise Day) or email s.j.day@virgin.net

Race Reports
Stourbridge Stagger 6/2/11 by Julie Caseley
This is my 4th running of this race but I was the only Jogger at Stourbridge this morning (sorry if I missed anyone - the results aren't up yet). The weather wasn't too bad but there was a bit of a wind blowing. As well as the main race (10 miles) there was also a women's only 6k (actually 7k) which both started together and were full before race day. The race HQ was in Mary Stevens Park but use to be in a rather posh school about 10 mins away. However, a new little building has been built in the park which was very nice. It might have been a different story if it was pouring down with rain!! The course is quite tough (especially running on the sand, aka "Dinosaur Beach") but very runnable with some nice downhill stretches only to be countered by some stiff hills.
"Slop Gully" wasn't too sloppy due to the fact that we haven't had much rainrecently. There were a few more stiles than I remember from a couple of years ago but at least it gave us a little breather. At one stile there was a bit of a queue and one runner (Vegan) came hurtling from the back straight to the front of the queue with cries of "get back" and "cheat" from other runners.
Quite surprisingly, she took no notice, climbed over the stile and ran off!! I came across her further along the course, took her and finished a couple of minutes ahead. Job done!! I was really pleased with my time of 1:30:30, knocking 4 mins 30 secs off my previous best here in 2007.
Thanks, Julie
Mayhill Massacre 6/2/11 by Chris Barker
While I was running this race I thought of many things about it that I could put into my report later in the day. What were they now? Well, this is what I can recall of it.
It’s just the sort of race I shouldn’t like as it has what you might call ‘a degree of difficulty’ but something keeps drawing me back to it. This is the fifth year it’s been held and I’ve done every one. Despite my affection for it, it didn’t have the same effect on most of our runners though as the only other MJs were, I think, Jon Newey, Roodie, Duncman and Richard Hookham.
The course was a bit dryer and therefore faster than last year although I need a bit more help than that. Devine intervention would have been a good thing.
The summit of Mayhill is reached after about 2 miles and is the highest point on the course and if you look back you can see the River Severn snaking its way through Gloucestershire. It might be all downhill after that but it’s not, as the route sees a return back up but not to quite to the top. It will never be without some glutinous mud in some places but it’s never going to live up to its name without any. Indeed it wouldn’t be the same race. This was my slowest effort to date although I still finished in front of the last man, so, still plenty of life in the 60 year old dog yet.
Mayhill Massacre 6/2/11 by Steve Roode
I did the Mayhill Massacre today - all way round my legs felt hammered thought I was doing pretty crap till I just checked last years time and found I knocked 4:43 off it - no wonder the legs were aching!!! Fellow joggers in finishing order were Richard Hookam, Myself, Duncman and the Cheese now in the 60 vet class, great run by John Newey came 4th and Richard Walsh 14th respectively. A great event!!!
Thanks, Steve

Forthcoming Event - Shobdon Wood 6 – 17/4/11
From the organisers of this one..... I wonder if you would pass on the information about Croft Ambrey's Shobdon Wood 6 to anyone interested, and add it to your club's list of events if you have a website.
There are free T shirts to all runners, but the preferred size is only guaranteed to those who pre-enter!
I realise that there are clashes with other races on this date but our race may appeal to those looking for a scenic off-road race through woods we hope will be in their fresh Spring glory.
Many thanks, Guy Whitmarsh

Chris’s 60th Birthday Bash
Thanks, Thanks, Thanks to everyone who turned up on Saturday morning to help me celebrate my 60th birthday. I counted 24 runners as we set off on a 5.5 mile tour of the local area plus others who were there but not running.
Also to Lynda (and whoever else – sorry!) for the best birthday cake in the history of the world ever, the remainder of which is being polished off by myself and my other family members. I’ve got the plastic thing and I’ll bring it along Wednesday.
There some photos on Facebook for those who would like to see them.
One of my party guests informed me that he has a big birthday coming up in April!

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 9/2 MSJ – 7pm
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6
Tues 22/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 27/2 Treat MT8
Sun 27/2 Bourton 10K
Sun 6/3 Droitwich Half Marathon
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun 17/4 Shobdon Wood 6
Sun ??? Eastnor 7
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon

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

Happy running, Big Cheese

Chris's Blog from 30 January 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

I’m sorry this is late but my phone line has been down since last Saturday.

Cross Country
From Nick Hitchings – ‘CROSS COUNTRY THIS SUNDAY (6TH FEB) IS AT BUILTH WELLS MEET AT MSJ SPORTS CENTRE AT 8.15AM, ANYONE WANTING TO GO DIRECT PLEASE E-MAIL ME FOR THE POSTCODE.
PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR RACE NUMBERS AND CLUB COLOURS.
MEN'S RACE 6 MILES, LADIES RACE 4 MILES, INCLUDING GRASSLAND,FOREST TRACKS,CLIMBS,DESCENTS AND MUD!
ANY PROBLEMS LET ME KNOW, THANKS, NICK HITCHINGS (07595644180)‘

Edinburgh Marathon training
Andy Milton – ‘As part of the Edinburgh Marathon training, we will be doing speed training on a wednesday evening meeting at MSJ as normal. The training is aimed towards completing a sub 4 hour marathon and as it is the first week it will be a steady progression . It will also incorporate warm up and cool down sessions and all Joggers are welcome to come and join us. Cheers, Andy’

Jayne's Tues Night Speed Training
The Tuesday night speed training sessions are proving so popular this year that the group has now reached the maximum size that I feel is manageable and safe. So unfortunately I am now having to close the group to any new runners.
Anyone who has attended at least one of the first three sessions is still welcome to attend on an ongoing basis (If you have been to one of these sessions and have not received an email from me about it this weekend, please get on touch via email or Facebook as I have inadvertently overlooked you!)

Race Reports
Gloucester 5 Mile 29/1/11 by Emma Gooderham
I ran the Gloucester 5 mile race today, a race that was rescheduled from 18th December due to the snow. Very cold, windy and an undulating course certainly did test us. Didn't know what to expect as this is my first road race for over a year. My previous PB on a flat course is 28.58. Finished 2nd overall in 29.41, so very pleased. The person in front of me and overall winner was also female, so ladies 1st and 2nd! (She is an England Athlete so I let her off!). Took home the customery packet of biscuits and now about to have a well earned bath. Injury wise the problem is still there and my limiting factor, but at least I am running again - yeah. Look forward to the xc next week if recovery seems ok from this event.
Thanks, Emma
The Tough Guy 30/1/11 by Sim Foreman
Today I tackled my first ever Tough Guy Challenge up in Ashperton, Staffs. 4 months of training running up and down hills, jumping in ditches, ponds and streams at 6.30 on a Sunday morning came to fruition. I travelled up with Chris L-F and another Chris and we joined the 5000 or so strong group of lunatics who had paid between £60 and £200 quid each to experience purgatory.
The water was frozen solid when we got there and attempts to break it by hoying stones and bricks only met with partial success and lots of bouncing bricks!
Chris L-F set off in the first group just after 11 as a 15 time TG veteran, Chris 2 set off a few minutes after that and I set off with the virgins after that. The run was cross country and challenging as obstacles and hills blasted in fairly quickly. I enjoyed the run and even the cold water until about 4 miles when we were higher than my house on a balance beam, jumping off planks into water (reassured that the frogman would save me if needed!), more water, more water and some fire.
The killer was the Torture Chamber, basically a mine shaft high crawl through with thick dangling logs and electric fence cable, into the some water and mud then more logs and electric shocks. The screams in there were horrendous and I was just glad to avoid any shocks ( I think I got one on my leg but cannot be sure as it was so cold).
I battled on and finished just under 2 hours on the official race clock (about 1h 54 on my watch from my group starting) and was met at the finish by Chris L-F who had finished 16th in 1h 24m. Brilliant effort by him.
After about 15 minutes shivering and layering on the dry clothes it was if someone had hit a switch that switched me back to human from gibbering wreck. My initial thoughts were – never again – been there done it, but by the time we had driven home, we were talking about how we could improve the training sessions for next year. We shall see.
It sounds hellish, it is hellish but it is worth to be a Tough Guy or Gal. Cheers.
Thanks, Sim

Adidas Thunder Run 24hr race - 30/31st July
From Paul Newman....... We have one complete Thunder team for the 24 hour relay www.tr24.co.uk and we have a number of joggers confirmed for the 2nd team including Andy Banham Stuart Brown Bradley Crouch and the guys will be pleased to hear fitness instructor Tabitha Luke but we need a couple more, I am looking to register the 2nd team this week which means me paying the £220 up frount, if you would like to join the team could you please let me have a cheque for £27.50 the first 8 cheques will form the 2nd team (includes 2 nights camping for the whole family) asap as according to the website the event is getting full up. Please drop me a line if you are 100% committed and would like to join us.

Chris’s 60th Birthday Big Bacon Buttie Bash – Saturday 5th Feb 9.00am
Well the red carpet is laid throughout Fruitlands and the band is rehearsing.
The neighbours will be stood in line for the guard of honour with trainers held aloft and I’ve been busy shopping at Morrison’s with more to do on Friday.
This is the only 60th birthday I’m having so why not join me at my place 2, Lime Tree Ave, Fruitlands for a 5.5 mile run (pace to suit an old un – slow!) and eats and drinks afterwards. See you there. All welcome.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 26/1 MSJ – 7pm
Sat 29/1 Cotswold Marathon
Sat 29/1 Gloucester 5 mile
Sat 5/2 Chris’s (me) 60th Big Birthday Bacon Buttie Run. 9am. No 2 Lime Tree Ave
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 6/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6
Tues 22/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ 8-9pm
Sun 27/2 Treat MT8
Sun 27/2 Bourton 10K
Sun 6/3 Droitwich Half Marathon
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun ??? Eastnor 7
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon

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

Happy running, Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 23 January 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Two Notices from Stuart.....
Another Circuits Session for Malvern Joggers this Tuesday evening 25th January 8 – 9 at MSJ.
Plus...........
The Magnificent Eastnor 7 is on Sunday April 10th but sadly it clashes with another MJ favourite the ‘Scenic Six’. The committee have decided to support our friends at Ledbury Harriers and have included the Eastnor 7 in the Champions League. Ledbury Harriers are a small club and once again are looking for some for some extra help with marshalling and other jobs on race day. Let me know if you are able to help or contact them direct via their website.

Charity Appeal
From Phil Jackson ..... In a morning assembly last term, one of the senior girls, Sarah Phillips, gave a very moving account to the whole school of how her mother, Debbie, had recently died from cervical cancer. Sarah described how, as there was no charitable fund to support research into the condition which affects so many women, her family decided to set up a charity to support research at University College, London. This charity is the Debbie Fund.
As I listened to her I wondered what I could do to contribute to the charity. Well, you know me and you know what I do. Obviously, I run a marathon. I’ve qualified for and entered Boston, 2011 and I will be running in aid of the Debbie Fund. Please help me by contributing to this vital research into women’s health. My Justgiving page is at
www.justgiving.com/Philip-Jackson
Sarah Phillips is a very gifted singer and her latest EP “Say It’s Possible” is available on iTunes. It is really rather good.
You can find out more about the Debbie Fund at www.debbiefund.org Many thanks, Phil

Jayne's Tues Night Speed Training
This week its everyone's favourite - hill reps! Meet at the usual time of 5:45 on Tues at Link Top car park, for one or two (or possibly just a few more...) reps up Cowleigh Bank. All welcome - if it doesn't kill you it will make you stronger! See you there, Cheers,Jayne

Race Reports
Gloucester Marathon 23/1/11 by Duncan Cresswell
At the end of May, I shall be running the Forces March, which raises money for Project 65 – The veteran’s charity. The route starts in Ilfracoombe and finishes in Bulford, covering a distance of 131+ miles. This is split up into 5 days of running at least the marathon distance. If that is not enough, I hope to run another 5 on top of that throughout the year.
Number 1 – Gloucester. I decided to give myself 4 weeks to prepare for this; an 11 mile run to Hereford and the New Year day 10k race, and then a 20 mile run the following week, which got cut short to 16 miles (with quite a bit of walking) because I was just not in the mood for it. So a good time not on the cards.
Anyhow, 3x7 ish mile laps of the lovely Gloucester countryside to take in after 4 around the suburb of Quedgly. I was familiar with the loop as it was used in the Glous 20 a couple of years ago. Remembered the one hill near the start of the loop, but forgot about the other climb towards the end of it. After the first lap, I really didn’t want to do any more, so slowed down a bit. Quite a good half marathon time though, but didn’t get the competitive race feeling until 20 miles. I was away and to my surprise, sub 4 hours was easily obtainable, but I pushed it too much as my right thigh was uncomfortable just before the last hill at 23 miles. So I slowed down and resigned myself to a slower time. I made my time 4:04:55. Gun time will be 4:05:something. Still chuffed with it though as I thought it was tough. I think it’s knocked Wolverhampton off my personal top spot for toughest road marathon yet. Roodie was there too and found it too easy despite the extra lap to run in his 50k event. My jaw is still touching the ground at how fast he ran today. Well done mate! Can’t remember his exact time, but I’m guessing he’ll have posted something in the blog.
Marathon #2 will be a gentle jog in The Bath Beat in April, followed by the Shakespeare Marathon at the start of May, which was my first ever marathon 2 years ago, where I hope to beat my 3:55 PB – fingers crossed.
If you’ve got any spare cash, I have a just giving page to raise money for Project 65. Your support would not only be appreciated by the charity (more info can be found at www.project65.net ) but it would also help to get my running back up to some sort of form and to get through 9 more marathons. Cheers ?
www.justgiving.com/duncan5marathons
Thanks, Dunc
Gloucester 50K, 23/1/11 by Steve Roode
I did my first 50k today quite a hilly route of 4 laps around local roads - very scenic, I went through marathon distance in 3:32 and finished up doing 4:20. Legs felt hammered at the finish but feeling good now!!! Bring on London and Edinburgh I say!!! Thanks to Derek and Ros who turned up to cheer me on.
Thanks, Steve
Telford 10K - AKA "Close encounters with a traffic cone"23/1/11 by Ruth Johnstone
I originally entered this race for December 2009. Unusually, this has an elite race for the sub-40 crew, followed 45 mins later by the race for mere mortals. Described as a fast, two-lap, out and back flat course, I entered it with the objective of doing some damage to my 10k pb of 41:37. But a few days before the 2009 race, we found out that we were expecting a future Junior Jogger & so I postponed. This year's race was postponed from December 2010, and so the full Johnstone race crew only got their day out to Telford today.
Having not raced for some time, the objective was to simply see what I could do; I'd be happy with anything south of 42 mins. Since coming back to running this summer, I have also listened (for once!) to Neill, and converted to "forefoot" running. It still doesn't feel natural, but it does feel fast & I wanted to see what was happening with my times.
The race started well. The gently swooping downhill start allowed for effort-free overtaking, and as we approached the turn at the half way point for the first lap, I was nicely positioned as 2nd lady with 1st lady in my sights and feeling remarkably comfortable at a (for me!) blistering 6:30 pace. But pride always goes before a fall. At the turn, my legs skidded out from under me & I did my best to impale my neck on the traffic cone marking the half way point. Utter muppetry: falling on flat smooth tarmac! Game over, I thought, as I hobbled off. Once my head cleared a little, I realised that it was a long way back to the start - and that the support crew would be justifiably annoyed to do a 3 hour round trip for a Did Not Finish. So I started jogging, and eventually picked up the pace again. Result: 42:47 (of which, about 41:30 of running time), one bruised and swollen jaw, bruised knees and a trashed pair of running tights in the bin.
We saw the indefatigable Julie Caseley at the start. Julie was looking strong towards the second turn - congrats on the 48:07 time & apologies for being whisked away!
Thanks, Ruth
Telford 10K, 23/1/11 by Julie Caseley
Ruth Johnstone and I were the Malvern Joggers representatives at the Telford 10k this morning. It was a bit of a
long way at 1.5 hours but well worth the effort. I've never done this before as I've always been too late and it's been full. However, at £6 it was a bargain with a reduction of £1 if you didn't want a medal! The race was split into two, with the elite sub 40 mins starting at 10.30 and the masses of 40 mins+ starting at 11.15 am. It was unclear how they were going to award prizes and remained so to the bitter end!! The course itself was on tarmac paths and started near the Spout Farm House Visitor Centre in the Town Park, which was also the event HQ, and went downhill for the first 300 metres. The path then narrowed before a short incline, which as the course was 2 laps, had to be tackled twice, and there was also and out and back section so the lead runners could be seen coming back in the opposite direction. The prize presentation time of 1pm was a little optomistic and eventually took place at 1.45pm but only one other runner was there to receive his MV65 prize - bottles of wine are notoriously difficult to send through the post!! I'm usually quite happy to scrape just under 50 mins for a 10k so I was really pleased with todays effort of 48:09 and 2nd FV50. Well done to Ruth who finished in a time of 42:47.
Thanks, Julie

Training Run
Bournemouth Bay training run! By Vikki Sivertsen
I wanted to visit either of my daughters at either of their Seaside Uni homes this weekend, I also had a 15mile training run scheduled. I have to say that on this occasion Bournemouth beat Aberystwyth... I packed my kit. After spending an evening in the Uni house I got up and ran 15 miles of Bournemouth/Boscombe/Poole bay. Ron borrowed my daughter’s bike and cycled along the beach front with me. It was fabulous, the temperature was a couple of degrees warmer than here (it always is) the sun shone, loads of other runners, cyclists and families out. There were Loads of toilets and drinking water taps. The beach huts are lovely. The route was pancake flat, no sea breeze, the rhythm of the run came easy ! The Malvern Hills are a beautiful place to run and the Malvern Joggers certainly make the most of this and the Malvern countryside, but this weekend I feel as though I have had a real treat running for a couple of hours along a lovely flat sea front. The Bournemouth Bay half marathon is April 3rd, organised by the British Heart Foundation. I know it’s a long way to go, but as I get ‘free’ accommodation, I’ve booked it!
Thanks, Vikksen

Shag would like your support......
From Roodie......A fellow Hasher and good friend Neil Sparrey (Shag) is doing a Charity cycle ride in March for the Lily Foundation, as a fundraiser he is holding a Disco at Sapey Golf Club at 8.00pm on Friday11th February, Tickets are only £5 - I thought it might be a good night out for the Joggers and if enough people were interested we could get a mini bus so we all could have a few ales!! Nick Hitchings and I went to a Disco there in December and we had a fantastic night so I would expect more of the same. Anyone who is interested please email me.
Shag's cycle is a "special" 5 wheels and 4 people - riding from Sapey to London
Cheers, Steve

LM Charity Sponsorship Appeal
From British Blind Sport......Hello, Malvern Joggers we are a small National charity based Leamington Spa, providing sport and recreation to blind and visually impaired children and adults and wondered if you have any marathon runners who would like a place in the 2011 Virgin London Marathon on April 17th running for organisation. Unfortunately this week, we have had 3 runners pull out at the last minute and have to now find 4 gold bond places by 21st January! (No pressure there then). As we are only a small charity those places are important to us. If you know of anyone who is interested, we would love to hear from them as soon as poss. I can be contacted at info@britishblindsport.org.uk. I am in meetings all day tomorrow so email is the best option. Hoping you can help.
Regards, Caroline Baxter, British Blind Sport, Reg Charity 271500, www.britishblindsport.org.uk

MJs Circuit Sessions
These are the dates booked for circuits between 8- 9 p.m. at MSJ in the New Year. If we continue to get a good turnout we will try and do 2 sessions a month. The dates booked are, Tuesdays, January 25th and February 22nd.

MJ Hoodies
From Kit Organiser Steve - A number of people have asked for me to order them Joggers Hoodies please email me your requirements and include:-
Size S M or L? Zip or Non Zip?
Name back, front or both?
Prices are £16 and £18 with £1 extra for each name.
I do have samples that you can try on Wednesday.

Chris’s 60th Birthday Big Bacon Buttie Bash – Saturday 5th Feb 9.00am
Yes, it’s my birthday on Friday 4th of February when I move into the MV60 race prize category. I would like the Malvern Joggers to help me celebrate the occasion the following day when I plan to lead a run of approx 6 miles from my house at 2, Lime Tree Ave, Fruitlands followed by some pigging-out at my house. Egg, bacon, sausage, butties and booze, soft drinks, tea, coffee and who knows what else. Maybe even a birthday cake baked by one of our lady joggers! No need for 60 candles though girls, I don’t think I’ve got enough breath. One will do. Everyone is welcome.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tue 25/1 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ
Wed 26/1 MSJ – 7pm
Sat 29/1 Cotswold Marathon
Sat 29/1 Gloucester 5 mile
Sat 5/2 Chris’s (me) 60th Big Birthday Bacon Buttie Run. 9am. No 2 Lime Tree Ave
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 6/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6
Tues 22/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 27/2 Treat MT8
Sun 27/2 Bourton 10K
Sun 6/3 Droitwich Half Marathon
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun ??? Eastnor 7
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon

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

Happy running, Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 16 January 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

The MJs Champions League
Julie Caseley advises us that the MJs Champions League races for 2011 up to the end of March have been agreed and they are:-
Muddy Woody on 13 February, Treat MT 8 on 27 February, Droitwich Half Marathon on 6 March and
Forest of Dean Half Marathon on 27 March

Some Other Race Info
From Emma Gooderham.....Gloucester Marathon and 50K has now reached its limit and they are taking no more entries. There will be no entries on the day.
There are a few races coming up that may interest other Malvern Joggers that my coach organises.
Gloucester 5 mile sat 29th Jan. Cotswold Marathon 20th March.
Tewksbury Half 22nd May and Forest of Dean Trail marathon, half and ultra challenge (33 miles) 1st may.
Entry forms attached

Two from Jayne Ackroyd.....
Tuesday speed
Meet at 5:45pm at Morrisons on Tuesday for an hour of tough speed training with some lovely company. All welcome! And.....
Wed night Leaders
I would still like to hear from anyone who is prepared to join the Wed night leaders rota for the 9 1/2 and 10 min mile groups. If you would be able to lead a run, roughly once a month, please drop me a line at jayne.ackroyd@mac.com or via Facebook.

Race Reports
Not the Roman IX, 16/1/11 by Jayne Ackroyd
The entry list suggested that it was going to be the ABC of Malvern Joggers at this 12k race today. But unfortunately we didn't spot Mr Bromage (unless he was in his stealth running kit), so it was left to Ackroyd and Caseley to fly the Joggers flag. (If you were there Eric, sorry we missed you!)
It’s a lovely drive over to this race, which is just outside Stratford. Race organisation was immaculate - parking well organised, numbers and chips were picked up quickly and the queues for the loos were modest (always important)! The coffee and caramel slices were apparently also top quality.
It was a 1km walk to the start, but all the directions were well signposted so it was easy. The race is mainly along country lanes - some traffic but not much, and lovely scenery. The first half of the race is largely uphill, which makes it feel tough, especially with q strong wind against as it seemed to be for most of today. The final hill between 5-6k is a bit of a killer, but thankfully the wind swung round behind us at this point (there is a God!) But once through the half way point, its downhill all the way (bar a couple of minor undulations) The pace picks up, the kilometre markers come up quickly and it feels great right through to the finish ! Julie clocked an impressive 58:46, which is nearly four minutes faster than her previous best time on this course, and I finished in a respectable 1:00:11.
I thought this race was great & definitely plan to be back next year!
Thanks, Jayne

Cross Country Report – Monkhall Farm 9/1/11
From Nick Hitchings .......Well done to all who ran yesterday in very tough conditions, as you will see from the results the Women did a great job despite missing several runners the "new recruits" valiantly stepped up to the plate to secure the team 2nd position (and still current overall team leaders) with Emma first overall despite recovering from a chest infection.
The men also put up a good performance with their highest position so far of 4th team, lead by a strong run by John Bristow. Comic moment of the day was a close call between the Ledbury Harriers dive formation team ! and the style gurus new luminous spikes ! Although he did redeem himself by supplying excellent cakes and coffee. Most colourful language award was won (unsurprisingly) by an exhausted Steve Roode on crossing the finish line after a sprint only bettered by Usain Bolt (he wasn't running) and Nikki Stubbs.
Next race is Sunday 6th February at Builth Wells can you let me know if you are unavailable for this as with two races to go the ladies are firm favourites to be crowned Team champions and we hope to have Ruth, Sarah, Sophie and Wendy back for the last two races (please!)
Thanks, Nick

MJs Latest Walk , 15/1/11 Jenny Field reports:-
On Saturday morning 10 of us plus 2 dogs set off from Waitrose carpark and drove to The Kymin which is a National Trust area on top of a hill above Monmouth. The rain had fortunately turned to drizzle as we set off downhill to High Meadow woods. In the woods we followed the Wysis Way up to Suck Stones, a rather dramatic outcrop of rocks in the woods where we had a coffee stop. The drizzle had stopped and did not start again until the end of the walk.
The walk through the woods was 'undulating' but mostly on good tracks. Geoff and I had found out a couple of weeks earlier that it is easy to get lost as there are so many tracks which actually all look the same. This time however we did not get lost but did find a group of runners who were lost and we were able to point them in the right direction.
We arrived at Symonds rock, admired the view for a moment or two but by then were looking forward to our pub lunch.
We went down to the Saracens Head at Symonds Yat East and had an excellent meal washed down with pints of very good Butty Bach.
The plan after lunch had been to walk in to Monmouth along the far side of the river but as the river was very high and we had seen a fair bit of flooding as we drove down we decided to take the more direct old railway path in to Monmouth.
This was easy flat walking, ideal for after a hearty lunch. Once in Monmouth we turned up hill to return to the Kymin. This meant a hike of 2 miles steadily upwards. We were well pleased and very tired having walked just over 12 miles when we got back to the cars. Even the dogs had slowed down.
We missed our regular leader Eric Bromage and his wife Chris. It is the first walk that they have been unable to do. We look forward to their company on the next one.
Thanks, Jenny

Forthcoming Event – The Thunder 24hr
Paul Newman asks ‘Are any joggers mad enough to join us on this one??’ It’s called the Thunder 24hr www.tr24.co.uk So far about a dozen joggers have expressed an interest in making up one or two teams for this event. This is what it’s all about ..
What is TR24?
Adidas Thunder Run is a 24 hour off-road relay race against the clock. Whether you run solo or in a team of 2-8 it'll test your tactics, endurance, speed and team work. It's an exhilarating, rewarding and tiring race with a great atmosphere. You'll find TR24 physically challenging and mentally tough but an experience not to be missed.
What to expect:
You can set up camp either the night before or the morning of the race to start soaking up the atmosphere. Once you're geared up, your first runner will assemble at the start line at 12pm and when the claxon goes, together you won't finish for 24 hours.
They offer free camping and welcome families and pets, you can run solo or we were thinking of forming at least one team of 8, that way we would each have the chance to run 4 x 10k over a 24 hour period, (head torches required) its varied terrain mostly off road. The event is held in Catton Park South Derbyshire, race fee including overnight camping for a team of eight works out at £27.50 each.
If you'd like to join "The Malvern Joggers on Tour" team
please e mail me paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk with your tee shirt size, address and age on race day 30/31st July.

And also..... Leukaemia CARE. .....
Join our team taking part in this year's Silverstone Half Marathon on Sunday 6th March.
Organised by the same team who put on the London Marathon each year, the Adidas Silverstone Half Marathon follows a course around part of the infamous motorsports track.
With a fundraising target of just £215, this event is an achievable way of getting fit, having fun, and raising funds for Leukaemia CARE.
Ideal for beginners, those in training for a longer distance run, or established runners looking to run a personal best, plus fantastic facilities for both runners and spectators.
Call us on: 0845 521 3456, email: events@leukaemiacare.org.uk or visit our website: www.raise4leukaemia.org.uk

Go Ape
From Jayne Cresswell - I was hoping to organise a trip to Go Ape and wondered if you could pop this into the newsletter so I could get some feedback as to whether anyone is interested.
Jayne is organising an outing to Go Ape, the date is yet to be decided but she would like to find out how many are interested. The cost is £30 and for further information as to what Go Ape is go to http://www.goape.co.uk/days-out-in/gloucestershire/forest-of-dean/the-course. If you are interested please email Jayne at jaynecresswell@btinternet.com or via her facebook page. You are not committed to go if you show an interest.
Thought it would be something different to running but I know it is just as physically challenging.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 19/1 MSJ – 7pm
Sun 23/1 Gloucester 50K & Marathon
Tue 25/1 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ
Sat 29/1 Cotswold Marathon
Sat 29/1 Gloucester 5 mile
Sat 5/2 Chris’s (me) 60th Big Birthday Bacon Buttie Run. 9am. No 2 Lime Tree Ave
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 6/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6
Tues 22/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 27/2 Treat MT8
Sun 6/3 Droitwich Half Marathon
Sun 20/3 Cotswold Marathon
Sun 27/3 Forest of Dean Half Marathon
Sun 10/4 Scenic 6
Sun ??? Eastnor 7
Sun 1/5 Forest of Dean Trail Marathon, Half and Ultra Challenge (33 miles)
Sun 8/5 Crowle 10K
Sun 22/5 Tewkesbury Half Marathon
Sun 29/5 Malvern Half Marathon

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

Happy running, Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 9 January 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Two items from our Secretary Geoff
Membership subs
Thanks to all of you who have sent me your 2011 membership fees. For those who haven't done so yet, just print off the membership form attached and either send it to me (Geoff Field, The Lodge, Back Lane, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 2HJ) or bring it along on Tuesday (Circuit Training) or Wednesday (Club night). It is early days yet, but we are looking to maximise our chances in the ballot for next year's London Marathon and the more paid up members we have the better our chances."
London Marathon Accommodation
Those of you who are doing the London Marathon this year may be interested in a package put together by Matt Graham Travel.
Attached are an explanatory letter and the itinerary/price list.
Booking before 28 Jan. can be secured by paying a 20% deposit, balance due 18 Feb: after that it is subject to availability and the full price must be paid. If anybody wants more details I have the full details, just e-mail me at geoff.field@lineone.net, or phone on 01684 578652."
Walking Group - last reminder
The next walk is on Saturday 15 Jan. A 12 mile walk between Monmouth and Symond's Yat, with a lunch stop at Symond's Yat. Meet at Waitrose car-park for an 08:30 departure and expected return to Malvern by about 17:30. If you haven't already let me know if you are coming please confirm a.s.a.p. (e.mail geoff.field@lineone.net or phone 01684 578652) as I need to confirm lunch arrangements, parking, etc."

Wednesday Night Run Leaders
From Jayne A. - I am about to do the Wed night leaders rota for the 9.5 & 10 min mile groups for February and March.
Please can I ask if there any additional volunteers who would like to put themselves forward to lead a group (roughly once per month) on a Wed evening?
I am particularly keen to get a few more leaders for the 'Relaxed' 10 min/mile group, so please could I ask anyone who regularly runs in that group and can comfortably handle that pace to consider volunteering ? Very many thanks. Additional volunteers for the other groups are also welcome.
The 9.5min/mile group is starting to get quite large now too, so if I can find enough leaders I am considering splitting that into a 'Relaxed' and 'Strict' group too.

Tuesday night speed training starts this week! 5:45pm prompt at Morrisons.
Jayne again - For anyone who regularly runs three times a week and wants to step up their training this could be for you! Or do you have a spring marathon that you want to prepare for?
The session lasts one hour, which includes a 10 min warm up, 40 mins of interval training, followed by a 10 min cool down.
The intervals will vary from week to week (I'll spare you the science bit!), but this week we will be doing 10 sets of: 2 mins fast (i.e. 3-5km race pace) followed by a 2 mins recovery jog. Its hard work but worth it! See you there!
Cheers, Jayne

Next Tuesday’s Hash
Info supplied by Roodie.......The hash is from The Prince of Wales Newtown road this Tuesday 7.00pm and there is also a Circuits session at MSJ at 8.00pm. Juliette who is laying the Hash said she will lay it to go past MSJ at just before 8.00 so if people want to do both then it will be possible, a nice shower after and back to the Prince for a nice cup of Tea!!! Jog on!!! Steve

Supporting St Richard’s Hospice
The Ultra Challenge: Feeling fit, then join the Malvern Hills Ultra Challenge on Saturday, 7th May. Walk or run 52 miles individually or as a team of three in relay. The event is a test of endurance with some navigational skill required. Starting from Top Barn at Holt Heath, you will go through Worcester and onto Upton on Severn then across to the Malvern Hills. Conquer the Worcestershire Beacon, head to the Teme Valley and home. Individuals need to raise a minimum sponsorship of £300, team of three a minimum of £750. For more details click here or click here to register and please put in St Richard's Hospice so we can send you the relevant sponsorship form and information.
Scenic Six - get your trainers on for the tenth Scenic Six on 10th April. A six mile multi-terrain run around Peopleton and also two mile fun run/walk. Contact CAMBA events on 0121 358 4483 or email camba.events@btinternet.com for details.
Marathons - If you have a place in the London Marathon or other endurance events, please consider raising funds for St Richard's Hospice.More info contact aparkes@strichards.org.uk or call 01905 763963.
Running information evening
If you are interested in running then come along to a reception evening on Thursday, 13th January, 6pm at St Richard's Hospice, Wildwood Drive, Worcester. It is a free and informal event open to anyone interested in running or who has entered a marathon or half marathon. It will give runners a chance to meet others in training and pick up some top tips. To reserve your place call the Fundraising Dept on 01905 763963 or email aparkes@strichards.org.uk
Malvern Hills Walk
This is a very popular annual walk suitable for all the family with 2, 5 or 11 mile routes and fantastic views. It takes place on Saturday, 21st May.
Come along and enjoy the walk with hundreds of others, whatever the weather. This is our biggest group walking event of the year and is perfect for all fitness levels. This event is kindly sponsored by Mountainshack. For more information contact Phillippa Jones on 01905 763963 or email pjones@strichards.org.uk
Worcestershire Way Walk - from dawn to dusk
Can you walk 31 miles in a day on Friday, 24th June? This dawn to dusk walk goes from Bewdley to Malvern with significant hills along the way and fantastic views to enjoy. Places are limited on this challenge and full support is given. To register click here to download the form. For more information contact Alison Parkes aparkes@strichards.org.uk or call 01905763963. Kindly sponsored by Lear Group.
St. Richard's Hospice Foundation Wildwood Drive, Worcester, WR5 2QT
Tel: 01905 763963 | Fax: 01905 760938 | E-Mail: enquiries@strichards.org.uk
Registered Charity Number: 515668

Rowing Machine for Sale
Carl Anthony - Are you looking to get fit this January and supplement your running with some other training? If so I have a York fitness Cross trainer and a Roger Black Gold rower rowing machine that I am offering for the bargain price of £15 Rower and £10 cross trainer. They are both in good condition and haven’t had a lot of use !! They can be taken apart to some degree but you will probably need an estate car or a van to shift them.
If anybody is interested then give me a call 07897 674673.

Forthcoming Event – Blakedown Bolt 17/6/11
We hope you've been having a great Christmas and New Year. If, like us, you've had far too much pudding and chocolate, perhaps your mind is already thinking ahead to a healthier 2011?
If you're planning out which races you're going to go for, we'd like you to be one of the first to know that the Blakedown Bolt 2011 will be held on Friday 17th June, starting at its customary time of 7.15pm.
We would like to give you first priority on securing a place in this popular event. 2011 will be our 5th year, and historically we've always been booked out solid well in advance of the day.
Please visit our webpage on the Blakedown village site www.blakedownvillage.co.uk where you can get full details of the event and download an entry form. You need to print this out, and send with your entry fee to the race director at the address on the form. Alternatively, you can enter directly online via www.runnersworld.co.uk .
We very much hope that we can look forward to seeing you at the starting line in June next year!
From the Blakedown Bolters, Lesley, Judy, Ros, Vicky and Freda

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 12/1 MSJ – 7pm
Sat 15/1 Next MJ Walk – contact Geoff Field
Tue 11/1 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 16/1 Not the Roman IX
Sun 23/1 Gloucester 50K & Marathon
Sat 5/2 Chris’s (me) 60th Birthday Bacon Buttie Run 9am
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 6/2 Stourbridge Stagger
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6
Tues 25/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ

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

Happy running, Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 02 January 2011

Dear Runners and Joggers,

2011 Club Membership Subs
From our Secretary Geoff - ‘The club year starts on 1 January, so 2011 subs are now due. Please download a membership form from the website (just follow the "membership" link from the homepage), or alternatively see Geoff Field on Wednesday evening and he will have some forms available.
The subscription for this year remains the same as last - £15 for the full year. Cheques are preferred, but cash or other payment is acceptable.
Please do remember to complete the membership form, as it makes the job of maintaining club members on the England Athletics register a lot simpler.’ Geoff

The Thoughts of a MJs Champions League Winner by Jayne Cresswell
I decided at the beginning of this year to run every one of the league races, a personal challenge not as a goal to win the league – I thought I stood no chance with Julie ‘racer’ Caseley. The challenge would allow me to experience a range of races some that I had already run and others that would be new to me. I knew I had to rely heavily on Duncan as he would have to look after the kids whilst I was racing – there are only so many times you can palm the kids off onto Grandparents.
The year started with the Hereford 10K, a hilly and icy race, but the atmosphere was great with many a runner nursing a hangover. Later on I was able to run the Gloucester 20, which was good training for London. This was a 3 lap course and by the third I had had enough, even Duncan running back after finishing his race to help me complete my final mile didn’t lift my spirits, but it would still be a race I would like to run again. The Forest of Dean half marathon is probably the hardest half that I have run and found myself having to walk in places, but Stroud was my fastest half ever in a time of 2 hours 6 mins. The one race that I dreaded all year was Mortimer Forest, 10 miles of torture and it would be my third time of running it. I always finish around 2 ½ hours and would love to improve, I didn’t hold out much hope as I had hurt my knee 3 weeks earlier and hadn’t run for the 3 weeks. The conditions were icy and I must say I am a bit of a girlie in icy conditions and again I finished around the 2 ½ mark and again I felt like my legs would never be the same. The last race was at Wheaton Aston and was over 10K, Duncan had said it was a PB course and I wanted to complete it under the hour, but it was not to be; a cough had knocked me out over the Christmas hols and along with the usual over eating I struggled to finish in 61 minutes, but it was the first time I had beaten my Dad (who will be 70 in March) over that distance.
Of the 25 races I cannot think which would be my favourite, they are all great in their own way, probably the least favourite is a toss up between the Acorns half or the Hereford half. Both I feel could be run via a more scenic route as being a slow runner I have plenty of time to take in the scenery! The league has also enabled me to do something that I have never done before – I have never won anything in my life especially something for sport. If only my sports teachers and piers could see me now as I am sure they wouldn’t have thought that I could run a mile let alone 26 – mind you back then neither would I! Anyhow heres to more running in 2011 and fingers crossed my new goal of running a sub 2 hour half marathon.

MJs Champions League
From Julie Caseley - I've had to change one of the Championship League races in February as it clashes with the Muddy Woody (13th). So, instead of the Wyre Forest MT8 it will now be the Treat MT8 organised by Kidderminster and Stourport AC on 27th February. Just a reminder, the eligible races for January are the Hereford New Year's Day 10k and Not the Roman IX on 16th January. Also, there will be an 'amnesty' for runners entering the Championship League races for January and February, but after then, if you're not a paid up member of Malvern Joggers you will not be eligible for points on the League. Hope that makes sense.

Jayne's speed training is back!
Jayne Ackroyd, that is.......Now that the Christmas and New Year excesses are out of the way, its time to get back to some work ......! The first speed training session of the new year will be a week on Tues, the 11th Jan. All welcome.
For all those people who have already entered a spring marathon, speed training can really help you improve your speed and stamina. Forget the junk miles! After your long run, the most important session to do is speed based intervals .... It hurts but it improves both your physical and mental fitness.
Full details next week. If you've got any questions, please catch me for a chat at Joggers on Wed.

Bacon Buttie 10Miler
From Steve Ollis…….I know this is very short notice peeps, but I’m planning to run from The Foley Arms tomorrow morning at 7am. Pace to accommodate all. Butties at JDW on completion!!
Please text me on 07969 625457 if you’re coming along.

Race Reports
Wheaton Aston 10K 27/12/10 by Julie Caseley
Four Malvern Joggers braved the cold, sleety, wet conditions to run this very flat and fast 10km course at Wheaton Aston. I thought Duncan was going to give me a run for my money when he sped off just after the start. However, by the end of the first mile I’d got him in my sights and overtook him.
Thinking he was hot on my heels, I pushed on. Some of the more exposed parts of the course were still slushy and a little icy but manageable with care. Although the race was full at 450 well before the event, only 347 turned up with the majority being club runners. Congratulations to Andrew Scott who finished in 40:54, I was pleased with my sub 50 mins (49:47), Jayne Cresswell 1:01:46 and Duncan Cresswell 1:01:53.
Thanks, Julie
New Year’s Day 10K 1/1/11 by Stuart Brown
The 11 o’clock start allowed a record 30 MJ’s to turn out for the Hereford New Year’s Day 10k. The mild conditions meant that all the snow and ice had gone and running conditions were ideal. The undulating course was as testing as ever after late night festivities but several Joggers achieve PB’s including Amanda Duncan and Linda Walford and Roodey (apologies if there were others). Congratulations to Nick Hitchings who was first MJ home in 39.49.
Julie Caseley was fastest Vet 50 lady and Barry Swindells, the 4th MJ to finish, behind Nick, Andy and Paul Millsom was the fastest vet 70.
It was great to see so many people out for the first race in the Champions League. It certainly blew the cobwebs away.
Thanks, Stuart
Fladbury Festive Five 2/1/11 by Chris Barker
In contrast to the NYD10K the previous day, only Julie Caseley and I turned-up for this one. I have to admit that I was a bit knackered after Hereford, yes I know it was only a 10K road race but the intensity of my performance (cough! Splutter!) had taken its toll but this was a new event and curiosity had got the better of me.
It was based at a farm at Lower Moor which is near Wyre Piddle and prior to the start the 125 competitors where gathered in a field for mandatory pre-race instructions with the usual health and safety stuff thrown in. Then followed 10 minutes of hanging about before somebody said ‘go’ and off we went for an extended run of about 2.5 miles alongside the River Avon. The going was a bit soft as in muddy, but could have been a whole lot worse as I struggled to get a grip in my road shoes. I’ve got some off-road shoes but I couldn’t be bothered to look for them. New year’s resolution, find (and clean) off-road shoes. I would tell you where the rest of the route took us if only I knew where I was.
Eventually we ended up at the finish to be presented with a mini goody bag which included a bottle of water, a Festive 5 beanie? Hat and a muffin. The muffin didn’t last long. Not the cheapest event I’ve done at twelve quid but it was organised to raise funds for the children’s playground in Fladbury. I must return to Fladbury one day to see what they’ve done with my money. Overall, good fun, varied and interesting and I would certainly do it again
Julie was 69th in 48.26 while I finished in 83rd place in 52.42

Cross-Country Update
From Nick Hitchings.....The next HEREFORDSHIRE LEAGUE CROSS COUNTRY RACE is on SUNDAY 9TH JANUARY 2011 AT MONKHALL FARM near HEREFORD with an 11 AM START.
Meet at 9.00 AM at MALVERN ST.JAMES SPORTS CENTRE for car share, please can you confirm if you are able to run by e-mail to threecounties@hotmail.com or text 07595644180 . Any new runners wishing to run please let me know so i can register you to run.
If you are planning on going direct please let me know so we are not waiting for you.

The Next Joggers Walk
Jenny and Geoff will be leading the next walking group outing on Saturday 15 Jan.
Walk details have yet to be confirmed (we will be doing a recce in early Jan. but the idea is to walk from Symond's Yat via the Kymin to Monmouth for a lunch break (anyone who has walked with us before will know that this is the main objective of the day) and then a gentle walk along the river back to Symond's Yat.
Total distance about 11.1/2 miles.
The plan is to meet up at 8:00 a.m. at Waitrose car-park (I will make arrangements to ensure that no parking charges will be incurred) to car-share to Symond's Yat. Start walking at between 9:00 and 9:30, lunch at 12:30 - 1:00 and back to the cars by about 4:00p.m. and back at Waitrose by 5:00p.m.
Please let us know if you want to join in, as we do like to make arrangements with the lunch venue in advance. E-mail geoff.field@lineone.net, or phone 01684 578652"

Joggers Circuits in the New Year. These are the dates booked for circuits between 8- 9 p.m. at MSJ in the New Year. If we continue to get a good turnout we will try and do 2 sessions a month. The dates booked so far are, Tuesdays, January 11th and 25th and February 22nd.
See you all Wednesday, Stuart

Forthcoming Event
The Malvern Joggers are very must be very much in demand. Here are three race organisers pitching for your support later in the year.......
Crowle 10K – 8/5/11
I know it seems a long way off and if you did last last year’s event you will probably already received this but for those who didn’t
As a supporter of previous years events I thought that you would appreciate advance notification and a pre-entry form for the Crowle 10K that will take place on Sunday 8 May 2011. Apologies if you have received this email more than once, but we have multiple mail groups on which you may be duplicated.
Last year we exceeded our race limit of 500 entries and unfortunately a small number of runners were disappointed not to be able to enter. Almost 200 children also joined in by entering the fun runs.
In order to accommodate the additional demand that this popular event is attracting we have increased our entry limit for 2011. Advance entry is however still highly recommended.
Also for the first time this year we are using the services of Split Second Timing. We therefore expect that full race results will be available very quickly after the last runner has crossed the finish line.
The course will follow the same scenic route as in previous years. The two Fun Runs will start at 10.30am with the main 10K race starting at 11.30am. This has become a great family event and as before there will be a children's entertainment area and a Barbecue as well as tea and cakes.
Further race application forms and full details are available on our web site:
www.crowle-online.co.uk/roadrace/ We look forward to welcoming you on the day.
Regards, Ian Boden, Race Organiser

another one.....
Wright Hassall Regency 10k - Sunday 10th April 2011
On-line entry: www.regency10k.co.uk
THERE IS A £1 DISCOUNT FOR ONLINE ENTRY THIS YEAR
Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd placed men and ladies £100, £50 and £25
As a previous entrant we invite you to be amongst the first to enter the Wright Hassall Regency 10k 2010.
For further details including route please see www.regency10k.co.uk
This year the race is one of the events in The Warwickshire Road Race League.
Previous years have been oversubscribed so please enter early to avoid disappointment.
This is the Leamington Wright Hassall Regency 10k’s seventh year. The route is around Leamington’s beautiful town centre parks and streets. This year we are aiming to reach £200,000 raised by this event, in total over the 7 years, all of which is donated to local charities and good causes.
Entry fee; £16 (unaffiliated) £14 (club affiliated)
All finishers will receive a goodie bag including; a medal, drink, snack and T-shirt.
Trophies for all category winners, and 1st, 2nd & 3rd men & ladies.
All runners will be electronically timed. Limit – 2000 runners. Entries close on April 5th 2011
This year we are really hope to encourage as many of you as possible print off a sponsorship form to raise money- even a small amount will make a huge difference with over 2000 runners taking part. We will be working with Heart of England Community Foundation and will use the money raised to give grants to local groups and projects which will make a big difference in our community.
Good luck with your training. Russell Hall

And another
Blakedown Bolt 17/6/11
We hope you've been having a great Christmas. If, like us, you've had far too much pudding and chocolate, perhaps your mind is already thinking ahead to a healthier 2011?
If you're planning out which races you're going to go for, we'd like you to be one of the first to know that the Blakedown Bolt 2011 will be held on Friday 17th June, starting at its customary time of 7.15pm.
We would like to give you first priority on securing a place in this popular event. 2011 will be our 5th year, and historically we've always been booked out solid well in advance of the day.
Please visit our webpage on the Blakedown village site www.blakedownvillage.co.uk where you can get full details of the event and download an entry form. You need to print this out, and send with your entry fee to the race director at the address on the form. Alternatively, you can enter directly online via www.runnersworld.co.uk .
We very much hope that we can look forward to seeing you at the starting line in June next year!
HAPPY NEW YEAR! From the Blakedown Bolters, Lesley, Judy, Ros, Vicky and Freda

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Mon 3/1 Bacon Buttie 10Miler – Foley Arms 7am
Wed 5/1 MSJ – 7pm
Sun 9/1 Gloucester New Year 10
Sat 15/1 Next MJ Walk – contact Geoff Field
Tue 11/1 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 16/1 Not the Roman IX
Sat 5/2 Chris’s (me) 60th Birthday Bacon Buttie Run 9am (from my place – address to follow)
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6
Tues 25/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ

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

Happy running, Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 19 December 2010

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Forthcoming Christmassy MJ Runs
Christmas Lights/Sherry Runs next Wednesday
There will be a choice of ‘seasonal’ runs next Wednesday from MSJ.
Roodie says ... I will be leading a run that will ‘ take in as many Christmas lights as possible, and will be sampling some most excellent beverages along the way!! Pace to suit all - aided and abetted by the lovely Jules who is going to mix up some hot stuff!!!?? The more the Merrier and the celebration continue in the Nags for some Christmas cheer after the run
I will also be leading a run next Wednesday (Jayne and scheduled run leaders permitting) to my house for sherry and mince pies and the odd Christmas light or two en route. Once again, pace to suit. See you there.
Christmas Eve Run
Steve again ... Just to let you know we are planning a run from the rose bank gardens 2.30pm up to the Beacon on Friday 24th December as per usual good Christmas fare will be had once reaching the top. pace to suit all. followed by a couple in the nags
Boxing Day Run
From Richard Love and Lisa Dainty - Me and Lisa are planning a boxing day run, 9am meet at victorian bus shelter by Wyche Cutting, about hour and half, distance & pace decided democratically on day. Will be off road, Mince Pies and Mulled Wine to finish. Could people let us know of their intention to run for catering purposes. (email dainty.love@btinternet.com )
also......
I assume the Boxing Day run from The Cross Key (Suckley) will be taking place this year meeting 11am. Can someone let me know if that’s not correct.

Sports Massage Therapy
From Dean Henman.........
My names Dean Henman, I've posted previous adverts on the Malvern Joggers mailing list.
Would it be possible for you to do the same once again for me. It would be very much appreciated
by myself, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the joggers for there support over the last
two years. And i've enjoyed helping and treating many of them through there tough running seasons.
I've attached a new price list with a new working location (Dance in Motion). I feel sending a group email will cover all joggers I have treated in the past, and hopefully inform new and future joggers of who I am and what I do.
Kind regards, Dean Henman, Sports Massage Therapist DIP, OCR
Please see the attachment

From ‘run2gether’
Run together - run faster - run the Kenyan way
Hello running mates! Who hasn't wondered why Kenyans are such good runners? Pretty every marathon is dominated by the East Africans. Now there is the unique chance to learn from experienced marathon runners and to help them and their families.
With run2gether you train with Kenyan marathon runners in Austria or Kenya, you can exchange experiences and grow in your character. The Kenyan athletes and the project run2gether in Kenya get the total revenue of the running camps.
You can find further information at
http://r2g.square7.ch/r2g/index_uk.php or at www.run2gether.com.
Best regards, Your run2gether-team

MJs Christmas Party 2010
Thanks to everyone involved in the organisation of our Christmas party last Wednesday. They obviously spent a lot of time and went to a great deal of trouble to ensure a successful night for everyone present. Great buffet, disco and venue. More awards than ever before, the Chuckle Brothers, Nick and his magic shirt, our dirty dancing duo, and lots more, it was all happening! Thanks once again.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Fri 24/12 Club Run – Rose Bank Gardens 2.30pm
Sun 26/12 Club Run – Wyche Cutting Bus Shelter 9am
Sat 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sat 1/1 New Years Day 5 mile road race – Pilot Inn, Hardwicke, Glos
Thu 2/1 Fladbury Festive 5
Sun 9/1 Gloucester New Year 10
Sat 15/1 Next MJ Walk – contact Geoff Field
Tue 11/1 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 16/1 Not the Roman IX
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6
Tues 25/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ

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

Happy running, Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 12 December 2010

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Some messages from our Chairman Stuart..........
London Marathon Ballot.
This is the list of MJ’s who are eligible for the club ballot of 2011 Virgin London Marathon Places to be drawn at the Jogggers Christmas Party this Wednesday.
There are two places for ‘First Timers’. The six MJ’s eligible are:- Adam Ormandy, Dave Brett, Fong Bettison, Duncan Cresswell, Andrew Scott and Sim Foreman.
There is a single place for ‘Old Timers’ and seven MJ’s eligible:- Sam Carrington, Jane Cresswell, Jenni Cross, Sarah Grout, Jude Newman, Graham Cramp and Jerry Greer.
If there are any corrections or if anyone else is eligible please let me know by Tuesday.
Joggers Circuits in the New Year. These are the dates booked for circuits between 8- 9 p.m. at MSJ in the New Year. If we continue to get a good turnout we will try and do 2 sessions a month. The dates booked so far are, Tuesdays, January 11th and 25th and February 22nd.
See you all Wednesday, Stuart

And from Peter Wilson........Christmas Hills Run. The 7th annual MJ’s Christmas Hills Run will be on Sunday 19 Dec and you are all cordially invited! Please pass on to anyone else who might be interested.
The idea, for anyone who hasn't been involved before, is to run the full length of the hills on a wintry morning then dash to the Nags in time for opening. Strictly conversational pace - unless saving breath on the uphill bits.
This year it's north to south so we will be setting off at 9.30 from the North Quarry car park. Depending on numbers I need a couple of volunteers to assist with the transport back from the bottom end. Cars can be left in the Hollybush car park as before.
So we have an idea of numbers and the practicalities of getting back, please let me know if you are able to make it and/or help with transport. E-mail (garp1208@aol.com)
Cheers everyone, Peter Wilson

Race Reports
Mortimer Forest Hill Race 12/12/10 by Julie Caseley
Well done to 6 Malvern Joggers (+Dave Sealey?) who turned out on a cold but beautiful morning at Moor Park School near Ludlow to run/crawl around the Mortimer Forest Hill Race. The course was nearly 10 miles which included everything from a bit of mud to very icy stretches, not to mention one or two hills!! Some notable achievements were Jon Newey who finished 6th (75:31) and won 3rd MV40 prize (Steve Roode has/had your beer!), Steve knocked 10 minutes of his previous best time (90:30) and I managed to knock 6 off mine (109:29).
Other finishers included Nigel Sewell (86:34), Andrew Scott ((90:10) and Jayne Cresswell (151:16). Well done
everyone on completing a very challenging event.
Thanks, Julie

MJs Christmas Party - Wednesday 15/12/10
If you haven’t got your ticket yet and would like one please call Jules on: 07752 724307

MJs charity fundraising
From Sarah Grout - In preparation for our MJs Christmas Party I am producing a summary of the highlights of our charitable fundraising year. For the London Marathon alone we had I think 17 runners raising money for charity.
What I'd like to do is tally up the total raised by Malvern Joggers.
Could I therefore ask you to let me know
a) how much you raised personally WITHOUT Gift Aid please?
b) which charity/charities benefitted
c) which events you participated in as part of your running?
We hope to get a press release together to highlight the total raised by the MJs too, because it should be a goodly sum.
Thanks so much. The sooner the better, and latest the info is needed is Monday 6th December.
Love Grouty x email: sarahsgrout@aol.com or text me on 07540 271399
Sarah thanks those who have already responded

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 15/12 MJs Christmas Party – Malvern Rugby Club 7.30pm
Sun 19/12 MJs Christmas Hills Run 9.30 North Quarry car park
Sun 19/12 Top Barn Festive 5
Sat 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sat 1/1 New Years Day 5 mile road race – Pilot Inn, Hardwicke, Glos
Thu 2/1 Fladbury Festive 5
Sun 9/1 Gloucester New Year 10
Tues 11/1 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 16/1 Not the Roman IX
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6
Tues 25/2 MJ Circuit Training at MSJ

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

Happy running, Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 05 December 2010

Dear Runners and Joggers,

MJs Annual General Meeting 1/12/10
From our Chairman Stuart – ‘Amazingly, given the weather, 35 stalwarts turned up for the AGM at 8.00. The full minutes and reports should be attached. This is a very brief summary.
Geoff Field was elected as secretary and the remainder of committee were re-elected.
We ran through the achievements of the club this year and thanked some the many Joggers who get involved with the club.
Steve Ollis presented the Treasurer’s report covering the last 12 months.
We discussed the substantial losses made at two of the socials that were attended by a small proportion of the members.
My main concern is that the membership as a whole should benefit from club funds. So we are going to set up a ‘social committee’ to ensure events are organised that appeal to a large proportion of the club, and so that finances for social events are managed better.
We discussed future ideas for the club which included reintroducing a club handicap event, organising our own catering for the MJ’s 10k race (now that the Pheasant has closed), putting on a second Malvern Joggers Race and setting up an MJ’s Text alert for important information such as when club night is cancelled because of bad weather.
Thanks to everyone that turned up for the AGM and all the other Malvern Joggers that get involved to make the club such a success.’

Please see the attachments for the Chairman’s Report, AGM Minutes and Annual Accounts

Last Wednesday’s Run
From Stuart again – ‘A dozen hardy Joggers braved the snow and turned up at 6.30 for an early run before the AGM. Surprisingly the conditions underfoot were pretty good. We split into two groups and enjoyed an hour’s run in the snow.’

MJs Christmas Party - Wednesday 15/12/10
From Andy Milton – ‘We are trying to get accurate numbers to order the food for the Joggers' Christmas party; if you are intending to come and have not purchased a ticket yet, please could you try and do this on Wednesday at MSJ or the Nags after the run. I will not be there however Roodie and Jules will be there selling them.
If you cannot make this Wednesday but require a ticket please call Jules on : 07752 724307’

Mudrunner
From MJ Paul Newman – ‘I've had a Message from Kes from Mudrunner fancy being on the tele ??!!
Mike Bushell… I’ve never heard of him but apparently he is kind of a big deal and is the sports presenter on BBC breakfast or summat. One of his features is that he tries different sports and reports back on them. Apparently, (reasons why fail me), he is very keen to come up to Eastnor and take part in the new sport of mud running ! It would seem 90% likely this will go ahead on the 29th December at Eastnor, he is keen to run the course (or at least parts of it) and have it filmed as though he is taking part in a competitive event. This is all I know at the moment. If you and some of the joggers fancy having a run out and maybe’s getting on the telly, let me know. I cant offer much other than maybe a Mud Runner Hoody, can of red bull and a mule bar, plus a rare outing from elsie in a pair of shorts.
Please note: I am not sure if Roodie is allowed to appear on TV pre watershed as the usual roodie antics might upset people’s digestion) Regards, Kes
To see what Mud runner is all about and what you are letting yourselves in for check out this clip of Roodie, Val, Lynda and Ginny from youtube ..http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiEmUVx9U54 this clips had 1100 hits so no wonder he's interested. If you are interested in joining us please drop me a line on paul@newman8840.fslife.co.uk or on Facebook so I can let them know numbers. ‘

TTC Aquathon Series 2011
Information forwarded by Terry & Val Tuckley who say.....’Some Joggers have done this in the past. It is cheap, fun and close to home!’
The Tewkesbury tri club winter aquathlon series is back for 2011.
Same venue and same course setup will be used for you to smash your previous best times.
The series dates are as follow:-
Race 1 : 9th January http://www.entrycentral.com/index.php?raceID=100950
Race 2: 6th February http://www.entrycentral.com/index.php?raceID=100951
Race 3: 6th March http://www.entrycentral.com/index.php?raceID=100952
Race 4: 3rd April http://www.entrycentral.com/index.php?raceID=100953
NOTE:-You can enter ALL events in one transaction. Just click the check boxes at the bottom of any of the events "sign up" page.
We will be promoting fun and enjoyment at these events again with a few prizes for series and category winners. More details will follow.
If you need any info please email me. nick@tewkesburytriathlon.co.uk
Thanks, Nick

MJs charity fundraising
From Sarah Grout - In preparation for our MJs Christmas Party I am producing a summary of the highlights of our charitable fundraising year. For the London Marathon alone we had I think 17 runners raising money for charity.
What I'd like to do is tally up the total raised by Malvern Joggers.
Could I therefore ask you to let me know
a) how much you raised personally WITHOUT Gift Aid please?
b) which charity/charities benefitted
c) which events you participated in as part of your running?
We hope to get a press release together to highlight the total raised by the MJs too, because it should be a goodly sum.
Thanks so much. The sooner the better, and latest the info is needed is Monday 6th December.
Love Grouty x email: sarahsgrout@aol.comor text me on 07540 271399
Sarah thanks those who have already responded

London Marathon Club Places
This is the list of MJ’s who are eligible for Christmas Party Club draw for 2011 Virgin London Marathon Places.
There are two club places for ‘First Timers’. The six MJ’s eligible for this ballot are:- Adam Ormandy, Dave Brett, Fong Bettinson, Duncan Cresswell, Andrew Scott and Sim Foreman.
There is a single place for ‘Old Timers’ and eight MJ’s eligible:- Sam Carrington, Jane Cresswell, Jenni Cross, Sarah Grout, Jude Newman, Stuart Brown, Graham Cramp and Jerry Greer.
If there are any corrections or if anyone else is eligible please let me know.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 8/12 MSJ 7pm
Sun 12/12 Mortimer Forest 10M Hill Race
Wed 15/12 MJs Christmas Party – Malvern Rugby Club
Sun 19/12 Top Barn Festive 5
Sat 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sat 1/1 New Years Day 5 mile road race – Pilot Inn, Hardwicke, Glos
Thu 2/1 Fladbury Festive 5
Sun 9/1 Gloucester New Year 10
Sun 16/1 Not the Roman IX
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6

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

Happy running, Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 28 November 2010

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Some Important Items from our Chairman Stuart
Club Run - Wednesday
This Wednesday 1st December the ‘Club Run’ from Malvern St James will be half an hour earlier, at 6.30 p.m. so that we can finish in time for the AGM.
Annual General Meeting
Please do your best to attend the Malvern Joggers AGM at 8.00 p.m. this Wednesday evening at the usual venue, Manor Park Squash Club.
The Agenda will include:-
Chairman’s Report
Treasurer’s Report
Election/Re-Election of Club Officials
Where next for Malvern Joggers?
How should we spend club funds?
Do we want a social committee?
Any Other Business
London Marathon Club Places
This is the list of MJ’s who are eligible for Christmas Party Club draw for 2011 Virgin London Marathon Places.
There are two club places for ‘First Timers’. The six MJ’s eligible for this ballot are:- Adam Ormandy, Dave Brett, Fong Bettinson, Duncan Cresswell, Andrew Scott and Sim Foreman.
There is a single place for ‘Old Timers’ and eight MJ’s eligible:- Sam Carrington, Jane Cresswell, Jenni Cross, Sarah Grout, Jude Newman, Stuart Brown, Graham Cramp and Jerry Greer.
If there are any corrections or if anyone else is eligible please let me know.
Circuit Training
18 MJ’s were put through their paces last Tuesday at the last Circuit Training session before Christmas. Let us know if you want some more sessions in the new year.

CROSS COUNTRY SUNDAY 5TH DECEMBER
From Nick - Round 3 of The Herefordshire Cross Country league is on Sunday 5th December at Fforest fields campsite, Hundred House and is being organised by Builth and District Running Club. The ladies race is 4 miles and men's race is 6 miles and includes grassland,forest tracks,climbs,descents,mud and roots.
We will be meeting at MSJ Sports centre at 8.15 am for car share to Welsh Wales (don't forget your passports!) Please let me know if you are going direct.
Kareen will be making the cakes this time and Jon G supplying tea, thanks for volunteering!! The ladies are still leading the way in the league and early signs are we could have up to 15 runners this time (5 teams), the more the merrier so any new runners men and women come along for a FREE fun race. Nick Hitchings (07595644180)
And please remember......
CROSS COUNTRY RUNNERS: PLEASE WEAR CLUB COLOURS AND BRING YOUR SERIES RACE NUMBER WITH YOU, NEW RUNNERS WILL GET THEIR RACE NUMBER ON THE DAY.
THANKS, NICK

News of New Events
1) From Phil Jackson - A new Parkrun is to start in Worcester. Parkruns are 5 km races which are completely free and great fun. They take place at 9.00 am on every Saturday throughout the country. All you have to do is register on the Parkrun website (very easy) and Parkrun will send you your barcode. So far, in London, I have done 4 Parkruns in Richmond Park and I thoroughly recommend them. All sorts of runners take part, from Elite Jon Newey types, through serious club runners to gentle joggers and run walkers. Children are welcome too (but not dogs or cyclists). The contact in Worcester is richard.ralphs@gmail.com phone 01905 22580

New Event No 2 – Fladbury Festive 5 – 2/1/11 10.30am
From the organisers - We are a community group in Fladbury, near Pershore, raising funds for our local playground. As part of our fundraising effort, we are organising a 5 mile multi terrain race on 2nd January. The route is predominantly off road and part of it runs along the River Avon. Entry includes a goody bag, and post race coffee and cake, and we are hoping to attract as many local runners as possible who may have itchy feet at that time of year and help to make it a successful race.
We would appreciate if you would be able to give the event some publicity through the Malvern Joggers, I attach a flyer which gives details of our website, and there is also on-line entry at Runners World.
Thanks and Regards, Julie Cross, Friends of Pool Garden
www.fladburyfestivefive.org

New Member
Welcome to Neil Watts

MJs Christmas Party
From Roodie - The Tickets for the Joggers Christmas Party are now on sale. We need to sell as many as possible to ensure a great night is had by one and all - if anyone would like to help out with ticket sales then please see Jules, Andy or myself. Tickets will be £10 and it is a Ticket only event. The Party will be held at Malvern Rugby club on the 15th December and will start at 7.30pm, there will be the Annual Awards celebrations and the London Marathon Draw and it will include Disco and Buffet and of course a guest appearance by the Chuckle Brothers. This really is a great night out and not to be missed - so get your tickets now!!
cheers all, Steve

Race Reports
Cotswold 10K, 28/11/10 by Julie Caseley
Well done to the other 5 Malvern Joggers who dragged themselves out of bed on a very cold and frosty morning.
I think they’ll agree it was worth it!
We were warned beforehand about ice on the course especially at the ford at 4.5 miles. Thankfully because of the
conditions, we were advised to take the easier and safer (as well as dryer) option of a little bridge to the right of the ford! The course was undulating (aka hilly) but at least when it wasn’t going up, it was going down and we did experience a few flat bits too!
Unfortunately numbers were down from 138 last year to 70 this year due to Runner’s World inadvertently taking the race off the website earlier this month which was a shame as this was a money raising event for a roof window light at Quedgeley Methodist Church. However this did not stop us all having a superb race with 4 PB’s and 2 age category wins. Roody was first MJ home with a PB of 45:16, me (50:52 – 8 seconds faster than last year – every second counts at my age!!), Amanda Duncan with a PB of 51:58 and FV35, Lynda Walford with a PB of 56:24, Viv Tolley (56:40) and Val Tuckley with a PB of 59:10 and FV55. Tins of biscuits to the winners – well done!!
Thanks, Julie
Beastly Feast – 7ish mile MT at Top Barn 28/11/10 by Sim Foreman
Setting off from Malvern with temperature gauge reading -8c, Chris Lewis-Farley and I headed off to Top Barn for the second running of the Beastly Feast. This multi-terrain race had 400 entrants according to website but think the cold may have a put few off. In the safety briefing, Olly from Runaround advised that the wade through the chest high water in the stream had been removed from the route because it was too cold and this met with cries of “boo”. Those of us who wanted to get wet could go in the lake at the end and they had even smashed some of the ice for us.
The 7ish mile race started off with about 5 obstacles before heading off in to the woods and through the fields to Holt Church (where the bubonic plague started! – don’t hang around), and into a swamp area. There was a loop past the stream just to tease us, before heading back to Top Barn, round and into the lake (if you wanted to) before a short sprint to the finish and the warmth of a huge fire (this is in itself carried risks as the hot sparks were putting holes n the nylon material people were wearing – I was glad not to wear the mankini).
Chris and I finished probably into top 25, I await times from the website as my watch disappeared somewhere in the tyres. Overall a well organised race, on a lovely sunny (but v cold) day and great value for £12.
Not quite the Tough Guy warm up I expected but would certainly run it again.
Thanks, Sim

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 1/12 Club Run at MSJ 6.30pm followed by the AGM - Manor Park Sports Club 8pm
Sun 12/12 Mortimer Forest 10M Hill Race
Wed 15/12 MJs Christmas Party – Malvern Rugby Club
Sun 19/12 Top Barn Festive 5
Sat 1/1 New Years Day 10K - Hereford
Sat 1/1 New Years Day 5 mile road race – Pilot Inn, Hardwicke, Glos
Sun 9/1 Gloucester New Year 10
Sun 16/1 Not the Roman IX
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6

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

Happy running,
Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 21 November 2010

DDear Runners and Joggers,

Some Important messages from our Chairman Stuart..........
1. Congratulations to Jayne Ackroyd who has been selected as one of the two finalists in the Malvern Hills District Sports Awards 2010. Jayne was nominated by a secret crew of MJ’s for ‘Volunteer of the Year’. Many of us in the club have benefited from the speed sessions, better organisation of running groups, help and encouragement that she freely offers. Good luck for the final which is on Thursday 16th December. The club was nominated as ‘Club of the Year’ but wasn’t selected to go into the final this time.

2. This Wednesday evening we have to vote on two proposed amendments to the club constitution.
Paid up members of Malvern Joggers’ will be asked to vote on two points:-
Whether or not they agree to change item 5d in the constitution to read, ‘One fifth of all paid up members constitutes a quorum.’
Whether or not they agree to change item 4a to read, ‘The Management Committee shall consist of Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Kit Organiser, Webmaster and Race Captain.’
Please arrive in time to start at 7.00 p.m. voting should only take an extra 3-4 minutes.
The next ‘Circuit Training’ session for Malvern Joggers is this Tuesday 23rd November at MSJ Sports Centre between 8.00 and 9.00 pm.

3. Geoff Field has been nominated to stand for election as secretary at the AGM.
There have been no nominations for any of the other committee positions. The other members of the committee; Stuart Brown (chairman), Steve Ollis (treasurer), Steve Roode (kitman), Peter Cowling (webmaster) and Julie Caseley (race captain) will stand for re-election.
The AGM is on Wednesday evening 1st December at 8.00 pm and will be held at the usual venue Manor Park Squash Club. That evening the club runs will start at 6.30 to give enough time for MJ’s to get along to the AGM afterwards.
I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Champions League 2011
From Julie Caseley - Having received no requests for races to be included in next year’s Champions League for January and February (last weeks Club News), we have made the following choices.
Hereford New Year's Day 10k - 1 January 2011
Not the Roman IX - 16 January 2011
Muddy Woody - 13 February 2011
Wyre Forest MT8 - 20 February 2011 (the date of this will need to be confirmed)
Please note that the Muddy Woody fills up very quickly so early entry is advised (it was full before Christmas last year). Regards, Julie, Race Captain

MJs Christmas Party
From Roodie - The Tickets for the Joggers Christmas Party will be going on sale this Wednesday, we need to sell as many as possible to ensure a great night is had by one and all - if anyone would like to help out with ticket sales then please see Jules, Andy or myself. Tickets will be £10 and it is a Ticket only event. The Party will be held at Malvern Rugby club on the 15th December and will start at 7.30pm, there will be the Annual Awards celebrations and the London Marathon Draw and it will include Disco and Buffet and of course a guest appearance by the Chuckle Brothers. This really is a great night out and not to be missed - so get your tickets now!!
cheers all, Steve

Beacon Race Photo – please see the attachment
From Carl Flint - Dear fellow MJ's I would seek the permission of all of you in this photograph to allow me to publish a black and white pencil sketch of this photograph for my next book. The sketch version of this photo would appear in the Beacon Race Walk. Which as you can deduce is an illustrated walk following the Beacon Race route.
If you do not agree then please let me know and I will attempt to merge in another person into the picture to hide your identity. Kind regards, Carl
Carl’s email address is .....sabinecarl1@yahoo.co.uk

An enquiry from a local runner
I received the following message via the ‘Fetch Everyone’ website last Tuesday from a runner called ‘Reef’.
It regards a proposed series of local races (with a difference)...........
Hi, A local runner (Sacha) and I (Richard) are attempting to start a free Worcester 5k Park Run.
Park Runs are free 5k runs with "same day" on-line results, there are lots of Park Runs in the UK but none local to us
and we think they're a great idea. Take a look at other UK Park runs and what its all about here Webby linky thingy.
As its 5k it encourages people who are new to running and experienced runners to get involved without being a
daunting distance. As its regular you can monitor your progress as times are recorded for each run and put on the web
for you oh and did I say its free.
As a long standing Fetchie I thought this would be a good place to let other local runners and volunteers know how
to get involved.
At the moment we are just trying to get an idea of who would like to HELP out on race days or would RUN.
You don't have to run every week just take part when you want plus once you get involved you can do other runs in
other towns and cities when your away.
Could you let me know if you'd take part or be able to help out on occasionally?
Just pop me a mail back saying "VOLUNTEER" or "RUN" and we'll keep you posted of developments.
If you want to say more your thoughts are very welcome....
Thanks, Richard
Reef can be contacted through the ‘Fetch Everyone’ website.

An appeal for Marshalls - Costwold 10k Temple Guiting - 11am Sunday 28th November 2010
Sent to me by the organisers - We are looking for two marshals for next weekend’s race as we have been let down last minute.
A young lady called Claire from Malvern Joggers who help us at this year’s Marathon If your able to pass on her contact mobile number or home number this would be appreciated. Also, if you able to help in any way in obtaining marshalls this would again be appreciated. Obviously we would pay travel costs to the event. This year’s race is in support of the Methodist church where we live in Gloucester to raise funds to replace sky light window in the roof.
We look forward to your reply.
Thanking You, Norman & Anne Wilson, Tel 01452 722720, Mobile 07979 865453
Can anyone help?

Race Reports
Tour of Pendle 13/11/10 by John Bristow
After sampling the Half Tour of Pendle earlier in the year I was the solitary jogger lined up in the rain and hail for the full 16.8m jaunt over Pendle Hill in Lancashire. Following the initial route over the half tour it gets lumpy with 4 more trips up and down the hill from every conceivable direction. The last climb my particular favourite, crawling up a near vertical slope being offered a range of race snacks from soggy spectators, you don’t get jelly baby sandwiches and chocolate club biscuits on your average race ! Finishing somewhere around 3 hrs 10 ( approximately the time it took to feel my fingers again.) all that remained was a wash off in the stream and homemade soup and cakes from the village hall. Great friendly race, well organised , well recommended.
Thanks, John
Suicide Six 21/11/10 by Julie Caseley
7 Malvern Joggers arrived at Baggeridge Country Park near Dudley this morning ready (or not) to tackle this challenging cross country course. The start was very sudden with no announcements and the claxon didn't go
off either. The spectators had to get out of the way very quick at the top of the hill as hundreds of runners made their way towards them! At just over a mile we were into some very sticky, gooey mud which went on for 200-300 metres. Then everything was fairly calm, except for a few bottle necks and several hills before we could hear cheering from crowds at the water feature and were passed, coming in the opposite direction, by the lead runners before we veered off for a large loop before coming to the water ourselves.
I'd forgotton how hilly this section of the course was. Everyone tackled the water in their own way, jumping in with gay abandon (Roody), swimming it (Phil and Kareen), carefully does it (me and Amanda Dawson) and being helped into and through the water by a very gallant gentleman (Jayne Cresswell). Then it was a left turn back up the course and a large number of steps on very tired and cold legs before a downhill sweep to the finish. I was really pleased with my time which was the fastest I'd run it (I've done it 6 times now).
Well done to all MJ's - Nick Hitchings, Steve Roode, Phil Jackson, Amanda Dawson, Kareen Mann and Jayne Cresswell.
Thanks, Julie

A message for MJs from a company called Equipio
I hope this finds you well. I've recently come across the Malvern Joggers and thought what we're up to would be of interest to you and your runners. We're a new sports product community (www.equipio.com) and we put a large amount of focus on running. I was hoping that it maybe something you would spread awareness of amongst your network, either through an article or links on your website and word of mouth to your runners.
I think we may also have potential for collaboration as we are always on the lookout for top runners of a wide range of ability to trial product for us.

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tues 23/11 MJs Circuit Training at MSJ
Wed 24/11 Malvern St James Spts & Fitness Ctr – 7pm
Sun 28/11 Beastly Feast - Worcester
Wed 1/12 Club Run 6.30pm followed by Wed 1/12 MJs AGM - Manor Park Sports Club 8pm
Sun 12/12 Mortimer Forest 10 Hill Race
Wed 15/12 MJs Christmas Party – Malvern Rugby Club
Sun 19/12 Top Barn Festive 5
Wed 1/1 New Years Day 5 mile road race – Pilot Inn, Hardwicke, Glos
Sun 9/1 Gloucester New Year 10
Sun 16/1 Not the Roman IX
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre
Feb 13/2 Muddy Woody 6

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

Happy running,
Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 14 November 2010

Dear Runners and Joggers,

AGM and Election of Club Officers
From our Chairman Stuart - The AGM will take place on Wednesday evening 1st December. At the meeting we have to elect a new secretary to take over from Phil Jackson. The other members of the committee; Stuart Brown (chairman), Steve Ollis (treasurer), Steve Roode (kitman), Peter Cowling (webmaster) and Julie Caseley (race captain) are keen to stand for re-election. However this should not stop any other MJ’s who would like to stand for election from coming forward.
Please send nominations for secretary, or any of the other positions, to Phil Jackson (philip159@btinternet.com) in the next couple of weeks with the name of a ‘proposer’ and a ‘seconder’. We are looking for nominations from now on, but all nominations should be with Phil by Friday 19th November so that the names of all nominations can be circulated in the blog on Sunday 21st November.
If there are any items that you think should go on the Agenda at the AGM. Please let me know...... stuart.brown37@btopenworld.com
All nominations to Phil Jackson by the end of the week please.
The Joggers Christmas Party is on Wednesday 15th December at Malvern Rugby Club. Tickets will be available from Julie Caseley, Steve Roode and Andy Milton.
And also (previously forwarded on 10/11/10)........
Some Important Notices following the Committee Meeting on Sunday 7th November.
The “Halloween Karaoke and Curry night” was great fun but there are still some adults who have not paid. The evening is running at a loss, so please let Steve Ollis have your £10’s as soon as poss.
The Committee is proposing that two changes are made to the Club Constitution.
Firstly, that it’s amended to reduce the number of MJ members needed at Annual General Meetings to form a quorum from 1/3 to 1/5 of all paid up members.
Secondly, that the size of the Committee is formally increased by two to include a ‘Webmaster’ and a ‘Race Captain’.
To do this, there will be a brief ‘Extraordinary General Meeting’ before the usual run at 7.00pm on Wednesday 24th November.
Paid up members will be asked to vote on these two points:-
Whether or not they agree to change item 5d in the constitution to read, ‘One fifth of all paid up members constitutes a quorum.’
Whether or not they agree to change item 4a to read, ‘The Management Committee shall consist of Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Kit Organiser, Webmaster and Race Captain.’
The AGM is to be held on Wednesday 1st December at 8.00pm at the usual venue, Manor Park Squash Club. To allow people to run and then get to the AGM we will meet at MSJ ½ hour earlier than normal for the usual club runs i.e. at 6.30pm. Please do your best to get along to the AGM afterwards.
We have nominated the Malvern Joggers for the ‘Club of the Year’ in the ‘Malvern Hills District Sports Awards 2010’. Many thanks to Geoff Field, Andy Blannin and the other MJ’s who helped with the application. We will know our fate by Friday 19th November.
Unfortunately despite all our efforts to get to 150+ members, we have not been allocated any more places in the 2011 Virgin London Marathon and so have 3 as in last couple of years. So far I am aware of 5 eligible MJ’s to go into the ballot for the 2 ‘first timer’ places, leaving 9 ‘old timers’ to go into the ballot for the only other place. If you think you are eligible for either ballot, then please let me know.
Croome Capability Canter
Also from Stuart - It was great to see so many MJ’s at Croome last Sunday helping Black Pears make such a success of their first race. Thanks also to Carl Flint and Jerry Greer for their help with the race beforehand. For those of you that didn’t know we have organised a pool of race equipment with BPJ’s, Ledbury Harriers and ourselves.
This is what Julie Bott sent to those of us they helped with the race.
‘ What can I say? The weather was kind to us on the day although him upstairs had supplied plenty of water for the muddy areas, The National Trust were extremely supportive, the marshalls were amazingly adaptive, Gary & Ian were stars above and beyond expectation, Ade and David took some fantastic photos, Malvern Joggers were just as rowdy and friendly as always and the race ran on time like clockwork. It was a huge success with the runners, the marshalls, National Trust, spectators, the committee, in fact I haven't heard a bad word against it and it's looking like our race will be in the top races of 2010 on Runners World - so well done! Not bad for a first attempt at holding a race. We've had rave reviews about everything, with Chris Barker (Malvern Joggers) saying that it was up at the top of the 286 races he's run and other runners saying it was the best race this year’

MJs Champions League 2011
From Julie Caseley - I am beginning to think about Champions League races for the first 3 months of 2011 and would welcome any contributions/ideas. If you have run a race within an hours' journey time of Malvern that was fairly popular with Malvern Joggers that you think warrants being put on the League, I would welcome your suggestions. We usually include 2 runs a month. The New Years' Day 10k at Hereford kick starts the year very nicely but do you have any other ideas for January, February or March, otherwise I will pick the most popular races from 2010 or even include new ones that we haven't yet done. Many thanks for your contributions.

Paris Marathon 2011
From Acorns Children's Hospice.......
Dear Runners, I’m pleased to announce that for the first time Acorns is able to offer bonded places in the 2011 Paris Marathon. Considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the marathon takes place in central Paris on 10th April.
Are you looking for a new challenge? Were you disappointed not to get a place in the London Marathon? This could be the event for you!
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis. Runners are asked for a £50 deposit and to raise a minimum sponsorship of £1,200 to take part. All runners will be responsible for arranging their own transport and accommodation.
For more information or to request an application pack please contact me on lucy.shepherd@acorns.org.uk or 0844 984 0405.
All our London Marathon places have now been allocated but if you or anyone you know has secured a place and would like to support Acorns please get in touch for a fundraising pack. Alternatively, if you're looking for a fun festive challenge this Christmas why not consider signing up with friends, family or colleagues to take part in our Santas on the Run events? These take place in Birmingham and Walsall. For more information about Santas on the Run and other events please visit www.acorns.org.uk/events
Hope to hear from you soon! Lucy Shepherd, Treks and Challenges Officer, Acorns Children's Hospice, Drakes Court, Alcester Road, Wythall, Birmingham, B47 6JR, 01564 825023, mailto:lucy.shepherd@acorns.org.uk
www.acorns.org.uk

Forthcoming Race - Not the Roman XI 16/1/11
From Stratford AC - Hi, Entries are now being taken for the SimplyRun Not The Roman IX Road Race which will take place on 16th January 2011.
This is the eighth running of this popular event which has reached its entry limit in each of the past 5 years. Could you please make your club members aware and recommend that they enter early to secure their place. No entries on the day will be accepted.
If you are unfamiliar with the race further details can be found here http://www.stratfordac.co.uk/our%20races.htm
Entries are being taken either by post (entry form attached for information - this can also be downloaded from our website) or online (from our website or via Runners World - but note that RW will levy an admin charge)
I hope this e mail has found the correct contact point for your running club. If details have changed please either forward this e mail and / or let me know the revised details so that I can update my list.
If you would prefer not to receive further details of our races please let me know and I will delete you from our list.
I am happy to receive similar race details from your club - if you do have a contact list including Stratford upon Avon AC you should update this to show my details.
Tony Jackson - NTRIX - Race Director / Secretary Stratford upon Avon AC

Please note........ the Jan – March Champs league will be agreed shortly and that the Not the Roman XI may not feature in the Champions League races in 2011.

Race Reports
Guy Fawkes 5, 7/11/10 by Julie Caseley
We had a rather good turn out of 9 Malvern Joggers at the Guy Fawkes 5 last Sunday considering so many went to Croome Park too. It was a lovely day but quite nippy. The course was very flat with one lap of a pan handle shape route with only a couple of short sharp inclines over the M5. Nick Hitchings was our first runner home in 30:32, followed by Nigel Sewell, Graham Cramp, Dave Green, Alison Hughes, myself, Eric Bromage, Sherri Clynick (competing in her first event) and Jayne Cresswell.
After the apples, bananas and water at the finish line there was a choice of momentos including a bag, mug, water
bottle or a medal. Well done to all those who achieved their personal targets.
Thanks, Julie
Sodbury Slog, 14/11/10 by Julie Caseley
Another dose of water and mud and more water and mud greeted us at the Sodbury Slog this morning. After all
the recent rain it was worse/better than usual! There were about 12 MJ's at this morning’s race, some were first
timers, others old hands. There was the usual 2 minute silence as an act of remembrance before the revale then everyone made their way to the start on a nearby road. The first mile and a half was on road before the hard work began. There was plenty of short water ditches and gooey mud but the best was a deep water trough and then the pig trough which was about 200m long where progress was a little slow in order to savour the moment!! Running on road seemed very difficult with cold legs and feet and the last mile back to the school seemed the longest. Another great event laid on by Bitton Road Runners.
Thanks again, Julie
MJs in Cross Country League at Croft Castle 14/11/10 by Nick Hitchings
Another successful day for Malvern Joggers on a very tough hilly and muddy course, once again the ladies lead the way winning the team competition (without Emma ! ) with Sarah Pickerill's excellent 2nd place, Ruth 3rd and Joan in the top 10. The b team coming third overall, well done Vikki, Sophie, Wendy and Gillian . The men improved on the first race with the help of Jon Newey's high finish and good performances from Jon Green, Andy Blannin and Nigel Sewell. Well done to all 16 Mjs for a good turn out and great results. Next race Builth Wells on the 5th DECEMBER ,all welcome.
Thanks, Nick

Circuit Training at MSJ – 23/11
Will be at Malvern St James Sports Hall Tuesday the 23rd between 8.00 and 9.00.
It would be helpful if MJ’s can arrive to give a hand to set up at 8.00 and help to put the equipment away afterwards.
Please let me know if you would like to attend so that I can give MSJ and indication of numbers.
Thanks, Stuart (stuart.brown37@btopenworld.com)

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 17/11 Malvern St James Spts & Fitness Ctr – 7pm
Sun 21/11 Suicide Six
Tues 23/11 MJs Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 28/11 Beastly Feast - Worcester
Wed 1/12 MJs Annual General Meeting 8pm - Manor Park Sports Club
Sun 12/12 Mortimer Forest 10 Hill Race
Wed 15/12 MJs Christmas Party – Malvern Rugby Club
Sun 19/12 Top Barn Festive 5
Wed 1/1 New Years Day 5 mile road race – Pilot Inn, Hardwicke, Glos
Sun 9/1 Gloucester New Year 10
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre

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

Happy running,
Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 07 November 2010

DDear Runners and Joggers,

Some Notices from Roodie.....
Awards Voting
I need your votes in by this Friday especially the main categories that I listed in my earlier e-mails – I do have to order trophies next week. Many thanks to all who have already voted.
Hoodies order
I will be putting in another order for hoodies tomorrow so please e-mail me your requirements – many thanks.
Email ...... steveroode1@yahoo.co.uk

Cross Country League
From Nick Hitchings - Next week is the 2nd of the HEREFORDSHIRE CROSS COUNTRY RACES (SUNDAY 14TH NOVEMBER) at Croft Castle near Leominster, 11 am Start. The race is over grassland,forest tracks with mud and hills thrown in for good measure,ladies race is approx 4 miles and men's 6.5miles. There are no changing facilities and car parking is £3 per car as it is on National trust property (please follow one way system). We currently have 19 ladies and 23 men registered, but its not too late to join in if you want to run for the glory of mjs! and its FREE TO ENTER.(If you haven't registered please send me name and d.o.b on an e-mail)
Meet 8.45 at MSJ for car share or if you are going direct please let me know (postcode is HR 6 9PW)
Our ladies are currently leading the overall standings and with more runners available this time they are looking to continue to show the men how its done! Check out the Hereford times for the report on the 1st race.
Any problems please let me know, Thanks, Nick Hitchings (07595644180)

Race Reports
Croome Capability Canter 7/11/10 by Steve Roode
Lots of Joggers here today, what a great little race!!! Had probably my best race ever – a real pleasure - Vixsen I love you thanks for letting me cross the line before you LOL x x x, all in road shoes as well. Great support from MJ’s too.
Croome Capability Canter 7/11/10 by Chris Barker
Croome Park was the place to be this morning if you like the colours Emerald and Lemon (or green and yellow) as most of our runners preferred the beautiful landscaping of Croome Park to another run along the tarmac of the Tewkesbury Gay Fawkes 5. Talking of the TGF5, for all the runners we had at Croome, we still had 9 runners at Tewkesbury according to the results of today’s race which are already on the net. Back to Croome where I didn’t know exactly what surface we would be running on so I thought I would be OK with the road shoes. This turned out to be the wrong choice as we soon went off the well-surfaces paths of the estate and out into the countryside for a good spasharound in the mud created by the previous night’s rain.
The event started with an uphill climb which I am sure was designed to spread the runners out before the narrower paths were reached. For some reason everyone stood at the top of the hill before the start looking down as if not wanting to venture down there, as if it was an option. No you can’t start at the top of the hill! On a fairly flat course that was the only one other than coming into the finish where walking was not an option as you were in full view of everyone at the finish.
Well done to the Black Pear Joggers for delivering a superb event. I look forward to taking part again next year when hopefully the course will be dryer and we can take advantage of its flat nature. No results as yet so I don’t know how many MJs ran but I do know we had 30 pre-entries and more on the day. Congratulations to Emma Gooderham who won the ladies race for the MJs.

Race Place Available (if it hasn’t gone yet)
Sarah Grout - I will be unable to take place in the Sodbury Slog on the 14th November. I have spoken to the Race Organiser and they will permit a Race Place Transfer. So I have a place up for grabs. I can be contacted on sarahsgrout@aol.com

AGM and Election of Club Officers.
The AGM will take place on Wednesday evening 1st December. At the meeting we have to elect a new secretary to take over from Phil Jackson. The other members of the committee; Stuart Brown (chairman), Steve Ollis (treasurer), Steve Roode (kitman), Peter Cowling (webmaster) and Julie Caseley (race captain) are keen to stand for re-election. However this should not stop any other MJ’s who would like to stand for election from coming forward.
Please send nominations for secretary, or any of the other positions, to Phil Jackson (philip159@btinternet.com) in the next couple of weeks with the name of a ‘proposer’ and a ‘seconder’. We are looking for nominations from now on, but all nominations should be with Phil by Friday 19th November so that the names of all nominations can be circulated in the blog on Sunday 21st November.
If there are any items that you think should go on the Agenda at the AGM. Please let me know...... stuart.brown37@btopenworld.com

A Request from one of our Runners
Carl Flint - I would like your opinion if you have one on the following two establishments - l'amuse bouche in the cotford hotel graham road and priors croft opposite malvern theatre
if you have been to either, were they friendly/ welcoming, good ambiance, good value, good service, worth visiting again? Please reply to sabinecarl1@yahoo.co.uk

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 10/11 Malvern St James Spts & Fitness Ctr – 7pm
Sun 14/11 Sodbury Slog
Sun 14/11 Cross Country League – Croft Castle
Sun 21/11 Suicide Six
Tues 23/11 MJs Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 28/11 Beastly Feast - Worcester
Wed 1/12 MJs Annual General Meeting
Sun 12/12 Mortimer Forest 10 Hill Race
Sun 19/12 Top Barn Festive 5
Wed 1/1 New Years day 5 mile road race – Pilot Inn, Hardwicke, Glos
Sun 9/1 Gloucester New Year 10
Feb 6/2 Mayhill Massacre

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

Happy running,
Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 31 October 2010

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Race Reports
Great South Run - 24 October 2010 by Julie Caseley
Samantha and I arrived at Paul’s flat in Portsmouth on Friday evening and had a relaxing day on Saturday doing some retail therapy waiting for Phil to arrive. We had a super meal out in the evening carbo loading! We woke up to a gloriously sunny and windless day on Sunday unlike last year when it was blowing a gale. There were 23,500 runners in the Great South Run so the race started in four waves with the elite women going off first at 10:40.
The masses then joined in a warm up before the start of the elite male race, good club runners and the orangewave at 10:54. Phil, Samantha, Ros and Derek Goodman were in the orange wave but I was in the white wave which
started at 11:03. It was quite strange being slowly walked to the start line after about a third of the field had already set off. Being champion chip timed, I thought this didn’t matter. The green and final wave started at 11:12. Within the first 2 miles I was already catching up several of the slower orange wave runners, many of whom were, by now, walking!! For what seemed like the whole of the race, I was evading very slow runners and even in the final 2 miles along the sea front, there was no time to relax. I was looking forward to seeing HMS Victory and Warrior as we ran through the docks at the 2 mile mark but unfortunately missed them both. Phil also asked if I saw the two aircraft
carriers – needless to say, I didn’t!
Having started on the orange start last year, I can certainly see the advantage of being near the front. However, I was still pleased with my time of 1:21: 17, a PB by 10 seconds (according to my Garmin) but unfortunately officially my time was 1:21:33 (6 secs outside my PB) ahhhh! Phil and Samantha experienced the same problems with their Garmin and chip times so, according to our own timings, Phil finished in 1:10:16 (5th in his age category), Samantha 1:25:36, Ros 1:18:11 and Derek 1:27:32. It was great fun having Phil stay with us over the weekend. The organisation of this event is pretty slick if you allow plenty of time to do everything so I’m about to sign up for the Great South Run 2011 in the hope that I’ll get an orange start!!
Thanks, Julie
Birmingham Half Marathon Sunday 24th October by Amanda Dawson
Due to a lack of toilet facilities at the start a long wait was to be had in the relative warmth of McDonalds,
unfortunately everyone else was in there too, which led to a bit of a scramble to the start.
The race itself was super, nice and flat for the most of it until mile 11 when tired legs met with a couple of hills. Getting over these the turn onto Broad Street is just great and a cracking run in.
So all in all a top race highly recommended, great goody bag too, lovely shiny medal and big smiles all round.
Position 362 Richard Hookham 1.28:53, 505 Andy Milton 1.31:09, 654 Vikki Sivertsen 1.33.49
2087 Amanda Dawson 1.46:45, 3541 Duncan Cresswell 1.52:03
Thanks, Amanda
Conductive Education 10K, 31/10/10 by Julie Caseley
There were just over 100 runners taking part in this mornings Conductive Education 10k in Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham. Conductive education is a system of education and rehabilitation and at the Foundation disabled children from as young as 2 months are taught to sit up, feed and dress themselves and walk. Adults affected by Parkinson's, MS, stroke or a head injury are enabled to live more active and independent lives too.
The course itself began at the CE Centre with a nice downhill sweep before beginning 2 laps of the park.
It was very flat and varied, finishing near the tea rooms, so thankfully, there was no uphill finish! At the "sharp" end, the winner came home in just over 32 minutes with the winning lady (3rd overall) in a time of just over 34 minutes. There was an international flavour too with the 3rd man coming from Bermuda! I was pleased with my sub 50 minute time (49:57) as I was recovering from a bad cold, but even more pleased with my 7th placed female position and age category prize winner. I won a nice pair of Brooks running shorts (they fit very well too!)
Thanks, Julie

Malvern Joggers Halloween Ride, Sunday 31 October, by Geoff Field
Sunday morning dawned fine, which looked promising, but by 12:30 the rain had started, was getting worse and looked to be settling in. So when 11 of us (Derek and Ros, Ian and Cathy, Sheila, Viv, Carol, Val, Tony, Jenny and me) met at Malvern St. James for a 2:00 p.m. start it was with a little trepidation. Also, when planning the ride I had not taken into account that the clocks went back on Saturday, so was apprehensive that we might not get back before sunset at 4:30. I need not have feared.
Sheila had borrowed a bike from Jen and had not ridden for years, but after a couple of trial rides up and down Back Lane she declared herself ready to venture out on the roads. So we let her dictate the pace for the beginning of the ride through Barnard’s Green, Malvern Link and along the Lower Howsell Road to Leigh Sinton and Smith End Green. There we split up, with Jen, Cathy and Carol taking the direct route to Bransford, whilst the rest of us did a loop towards Alfrick then through Leigh (pausing briefly at Leigh tithe barn to make adjustments to Sheila’s saddle). From there it was a short pedal to the Fold at Bransford and a welcome cup of tea. I was pleasantly surprised at how well we managed to keep together, bearing in mind that our equipment ranged from Val’s whizzy carbon racing bike to Cathy’s settee on wheels.
After tea we came back as a single group via a short off-road section to Leigh Sinton, then Stock’s Lane to Newland, Madresfield and Barnard’s Green, arriving back at Malvern St James at 4:30, just as it was starting to get a bit dark for riding without light.
Altogether, an enjoyable ride, but with the short days upon us, afternoon rides are not an option until the spring. But if there is sufficient demand I will happily arrange a morning ride with a pub lunch-stop on a Saturday or Sunday.
Thanks, Geoff

MJ in the USA
Mark Cusack - Sorry for not checking in sooner! It’s been a mad 3 months since I arrived in the US -- most of the time has been spent filling in paperwork and learning to use a handgun. I’m now pretty proficient at both, so I feel ready to provide a brief update on progress. In short: San Fran is fantastic. I strongly urge you to advise your employer to open an office in San Francisco and to redeploy you and your family there at once.
I haven’t felt ready to join another running club yet. It’s too soon. I’ve had my chances, but I know I’ll be thinking of the Joggers every time I’m running with a different club, and that just isn’t healthy. So, for the time being, I remain unattached. In the meantime, I’m meeting up most Saturday mornings for a no strings attached run with some of the locals.
I’ve run only one race since arriving, which was a very relaxed 10K around the city towards the GG Bridge. Though, I might run the Oakland marathon in March. I’m quite excited about running this one, since it’s only the second year of running, and you get to run through parts of Oakland that you seriously wouldn’t dare to tread normally. Apparently all of the drug dealers come out of their compounds to cheer you on as you pass by, which is nice.
Anyhoo, I’m hoping to visit Malvern at Christmas and am looking forward to a run on the hills. It would be great to catch up with you all then. Oh yes, and GO GIANTS! ..... Mark Cusack

Croome Capability Canter – Next Sunday
Well done to all the MJs who have pre-entered the Black Pear Joggers first race. I have counted 22 of us on the BPJs website. I’m sure they will appreciate our support which will help the event become a success. There’s still time to enter if you haven’t already done so. You can enter on-line at the at the Black Pear Joggers website.

Membership
Welcome to new members Stewart Robinson and Sarah Pickerell. This brings the total to 154.

Forthcoming Event - San Domenico 20 Miler - Sunday 20th March 2011 10AM
No it’s not abroad but it is in another country, Wales, alright then it’s a principality.
From the organiser’s..........Dear running club, Your members who are doing a spring marathon may be interested in entering our 20 mile road race that is four weeks prior to the London Marathon.
In the last 4 years we have had entries from as far away as Yorkshire, London, Devon and Edinburgh. The 2010 race was a record for us with both a course record and 325 entrants, so we are working hard to make the 2011 race even better. As in previous years we intend the race memento to be a technical wicking t-shirt, as well as providing gels and sports drinks at key water stations.
We would be grateful if you could circulate the race information to your members and we look forward to seeing some of your club members there.
Race website: www.sd20.org.uk
How to enter: By post, Using the attached postal entry form (175Kb PDF) - no need for SAE as race numbers are to be picked up on the day.
Online - available via ‘Runners World’ website: http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/events/viewevent.asp?en=58980
or ‘Fabian4’ website: http://www.fabian4.co.uk/default.aspx?EventID=394
Best regards, Ian, Race Director, San Domenico Road Runners, www.sandomenico.org.uk www.sd20.org.uk

Circuit Training at MSJ – 23/11
At Malvern St James Sports Hall Tuesday the 23rd between 8.00 and 9.00.
It would be helpful if MJ’s can arrive to give a hand to set up at 8.00 and help to put the equipment away afterwards.
Please let me know if you would like to attend so that I can give MSJ and indication of numbers.
Thanks, Stuart (stuart.brown37@btopenworld.com)

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Wed 3/11 Malvern St James Spts & Fitness Ctr – 7pm
Sun 7/11 Black Pear Joggers 10K MT – Croome Park
Sun 7/11 Guy Fawkes 5 - Tewkesbury
Sun 14/11 Sodbury Slog
Sun 14/11 Cross Country League – Croft Castle
Sun 21/11 Suicide Six
Tues 23/11 MJs Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 28/11 Beastly Feast - Worcester
Wed 1/12 MJs Annual General Meeting
Sun 12/12 Mortimer Forest 10 Hill Race
Sun 19/12 Top Barn Festive 5

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

Happy running,
Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 24 October 2010

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Some Notices from our Chairman Stuart.........
Cross Country.
Thanks to Nick Hitchings for organising Malvern Joggers first cross country team event near Ludlow this morning. We had great fun on a beautiful morning and did pretty well too.
Circuit Training.
The first free ‘Circuit Training’ session for Malvern Joggers is this Tuesday 26th October at MSJ Sports Centre between 8.00 and 9.00 pm. It will be really useful if MJ’s are able to help put the equipment away at the end. The second session is Tuesday 23rd November. It would be useful if you can let me know if you are likely to take part but don’t let that stop you coming.
AGM and Election of Club Officers.
The AGM will take place on Wednesday evening 1st December. At the meeting we have to elect a new secretary to take over from Phil Jackson. The other members of the committee; Stuart Brown (chairman), Steve Ollis (treasurer), Steve Roode (kitman), Peter Cowling (webmaster) and Julie Caseley (race captain) are keen to stand for re-election. However this should not stop any other MJ’s who would like to stand for election from coming forward.
Please send nominations for secretary, or any of the other positions, to Phil Jackson (philip159@btinternet.com) in the next couple of weeks with the name of a ‘proposer’ and a ‘seconder’. We are looking for nominations from now on, but all nominations should be with Phil by Friday 19th November so that the names of all nominations can be circulated in the blog on Sunday 21st November.
If there are any items that you think should go on the Agenda at the AGM. Please let me know...... stuart.brown37@btopenworld.com

Race Reports
The Mudrunner 17/10/10 by Paul Newman
Last Sunday ten intrepid Malvern Joggers joined over a thousand others for The Mudrunner at Eastnor, this challenging event is run over the tracks normally used to test out Landrovers. The course was very wet and waist deep in mud at times, but that was what made it soo much fun.There are two ways to run the course, Simeon Foreman who came in 33rd and Duncan Cresswell 298th and Matt Cox all opted to race the course, the others attempted the wallowing method helping their team mates along the way, this involved a great deal of rolling around in the mud and laughing, I was roped in to the "two jerks and a squirt" team with Grouty and Megz,Roodie was doing his best Bennie Hill impression chasing after his hareem of ladies including Lynda, Ginny and Val, unfortunatley for Ginny she developed an injury half way around but rather than walking home she battled on to finish the course, to see how much fun was had by all checkout Youtube as a hysterical clip has been put online, after 24 hours the clip had 270 hits http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiEmUVx9U54 or checkout The Malvern Joggers Facebook page for more photos and clips. Times weren't important this was a fun event, it took some of us 2 hours plus to complete 7 miles but we didn't want it to end, in fact after Megz and I finished the first time we went back and completed the "swamp and stream" section again with Grouty. To finish off the organisers had put on a large hot tub for all of us to soak in, so we all ended up in the bath together ! the perfect end to a perfect day ! Many Malvern Joggers are already looking forward to The Mudrunner Oblivion event in May
Thanks, Paul
Hereford Cross Country League 24/10/10 by Jerry Greer
Today was the first official appearance of the Malvern Joggers in the Hereford Cross Country League. A dozen joggers turned out on a sunny but cold morning for a trip around a challenging course through the grounds of Moor Park School near Ludlow. After a very warm welcome as the latest additions to the league, we were off – through fields, over stiles up muddy banks & through at least 2 streams on a circuit that seemed much longer than the 1. 8 miles or so claimed. It was twice round for the ladies & 4 times for the men. The green & gold (sorry, emerald & yellow) did pretty well on this first outing – the ladies exceptionally well ! Emma Gooderham was the first lady home, and with the rest of the ladies - Ruth Johnstone, Sarah Pickering & Joan Swindell made up the winning ladies team. The detailed results aren’t out yet so I don’t know if the men can claim any prizes, but the 2 men’s teams of Nick Hitchins, Andy Blannin, Ian Dyson, Graham Cramp, Barry Swindell , Stuart Brown, Jerry Greer & Andy Ormandy had a pretty good time anyway. A date for your diary, the next event is on 14th November at Croft Castle, I can’t wait!
Thanks, Jerry
And from Nick Hitchings......
Well done and thanks to the 'dirty dozen' who turned out today at sunny Moor park on an excellent and challenging course. Congratulations to the women's dream team of Emma, Ruth, Sarah and Joan, who were the Team winners and Emma was the overall ladies winner !! Please find attached the results.

Halloween Bike Ride - 31 October
From Geoff Field - Geoff and Jenny Field will be leading a gentle bike ride for Joggers, leaving from Malvern St. James sports hall on Sunday 31 October. Meet at 2:00 p.m. for a mainly flat ride through Leigh Sinton and Smith End Green to The Fold at Bransford for a tea stop. Return via Newland and Madresfield. The total distance is about 18 miles and should take 2 hours, plus tea.
If you need any basic bike servicing beforehand,(punctures, brake & gear adjustment, etc.) give Geoff a ring on 01684 578652 or e-mail geoff. field@lineone.net"

MJs Next Social
Friday 29th October at the Ramblers Cricket Club we will be having a Halloween Curry Karaoke night – fancy dress if you want!!
Kick off will be at 7.00pm all welcome family and friends included.

Circuit Training at MSJ
From Stuart - There are 2 evening sessions of ‘Circuit Training’ booked for MJ members in the Malvern St James Sports Hall in October and November.
We have had to opt for Tuesday evenings between 8.00 and 9.00. The 2 dates are Tuesday 26th Oct and Tuesday 23rd November.
It would be helpful if MJ’s can arrive to give a hand to set up at 8.00 and help to put the equipment away afterwards.
Please let me know if you would like to attend so that I can give MSJ and indication of numbers.
Thanks, Stuart (stuart.brown37@btopenworld.com)

Christmas Awards Ideas
From Roodie - It’s getting close to the time of year where we celebrate the achievements that some Malvern Joggers members have made or not! (as in some peoples case).
Again this years award ceremony will be a mixture of fun and seriousness so once again I need your help in deciding some of the categories??? And making some new ones?
We have the usual.......BEST NEWCOMER, ROUTEMASTER, WOODEN SPOON, MOST IMPROVED,
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, THE ALWAYS A PLEASURE NEVER A CHORE AWARD
JOGGERS JOGGERS – who you like running with most and CLUB PERSON OF THE YEAR – who has done most to promote the club in 2009
We also like to promote a great sense of humor in the Joggers so any suggestions for awards of a funnier nature would be most appreciated – I know that I can certainly think of a few. If you could e-mail me back your suggestions it would be most appreciated – I know it might seem a bit early for even thinking about Christmas but I like to be prepared, and I do have to order the trophies.
Please send your suggestions to Steve at …. www.autobag.co.uk

Coming up
Every Wednesday, 7pm
Every Sunday (sometimes Saturday), a club run or a race
Tues 26/10 MJs Circuit Training at MSJ
Wed 27/10 Malvern St James Spts & Fitness Ctr – 7pm
Fri 29/10 MJs Halloween Curry Karaoke night – Ramblers Cricket Club
Sun 31/10 Halloween Bike Ride – See Geoff Field
Sun 7/11 Black Pear Joggers 10K MT – Croome Park
Sun 7/11 Guy Fawkes 5 - Tewkesbury
Sun 14/11 Sodbury Slog
Sun 14/11 Cross Country League – Croft Castle
Sun 21/11 Suicide Six
Tues 23/11 MJs Circuit Training at MSJ
Sun 28/11 Beastly Feast - Worcester
Wed 1/12 MJs Annual General Meeting
Sun 12/12 Mortimer Forest 10 Hill Race
Sun 19/12 Top Barn Festive 5

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

Happy running,
Old Cheese

Chris's Blog from 17 October 2010

Dear Runners and Joggers,

Cross-Country Update
From Nick Hitchings - The first race is nearly upon us and we currently have 37 runners registered but we would welcome more, so if you would like to join for some or all of the races please e-mail threecounties@hotmail.com or call 07595644180.
Could all of the runners please supply me their date of birth and category e.g mv 40 or fv40 (if you havent done so already)
The first race is Sunday 24th October at Moor Park School, Ludlow. Please meet at Malvern St.James Sports centre
9.00 AM prompt to arrange car share. Anyone wishing to go direct please contact me for directions.

Cycling for Survival Update
From Steve Ollis - THE MALVERN JOGGERS AND SUPPORTERS HAVE NOW RAISED A WOPPING £2,100 FOR THE DEC FLOOD VICTIMS IN PAKISTAN!! WELL DONE TO YOU ALL!!
PS Lost property – did anyone leave a green ‘screw topped’ water bottle in The Chase pub on event day?
If you did, I’ve got it……
The Cycling for Survival press release……..
Cycling Marathon raises over £1,500 for Pakistan Floods Appeal
On Saturday 2nd October, a Cycling Marathon organised by the Malvern Joggers raised over £1,500 for the DEC’s Pakistan Floods Appeal. This is enough to provide access to fresh water supplies for 500 Pakistani households, or emergency food rations for 216 crisis-hit families. According to Jenna Wills, the Oxfam Regional Fundraising Manager for the Midlands: “th