Race Reports

Wheaton Aston Roman 10K, 27/12/07 by Julie Caseley
' The Wheaton Aston is a lovely fast, relatively flat course and billed as a good opportunity for a PB. Somehow I managed to run it nearly a minute slower than 2006 in 50:16 even though I felt I was going really well and was helped along by a couple of pace makers who kept me going. However, the start is a very narrow lane and then the course winds its way through the village before setting off down surrounding country lanes. I found the start very slow with 361 runners all jostling for positions as well as some very slow runners near the front of the field. However, the weather conditions were really good with only a relatively short stretch running into a headwind.
The presentation was a bit late with much confusion over the ladies prize giving as the 1st female finisher was also a FV35 and was awarded this prize, to everyone's amazement. Also, the 7th male finisher and 190th female had the same running number which caused even more confusion!! It has since come to light that Chris Penn from Birmingham University, who was the 7th male finisher, was wearing the same number as last year when he finished 5th!! Thank goodness for Brian Smith from DK10K and his photographic evidence. Amazing what some people will do to avoid paying an entry fee!! On the whole, an interesting morning '
Thanks, Julie

Wheaton Aston Roman 10K update:-
' Continuing the saga of Chris Penn and his duplicate number, apparently he did enter this years race but picked up last years number by mistake which was in a drawer at home so he has been reinstated, albeit red faced and very apologetic for the confusion he caused at the prize giving!! '
Thanks again, Julie

Here's Julie again, this time on her bike
VC Sevale Freewheel Competition
' I saw this event in the Gazette last year about a week after it happened so I decided to give it a go this year.
I rang "Eric" to ask what it was all about - what could be simpler - meet at British Camp car part at 9.45 am, then cycle to the lay by on the Ledbury side, competitors then set off at intervals and freewheel towards Ledbury until they ground to a halt and the competitor who travels the furthest is the winner! The event would then be followed by a bike ride before finishing at the Farmers Arms in Birtsmorton at 12 noon, lunch and the presentation at approx. 1 pm.
The thought of me hurtling down the hill from British Camp was all a bit much for Paul who decided just to meet me for lunch at the pub and transport me and the bike home. I did ask him to make sure the wheels were on securely before I left home but not to bother too much about the brakes as they were an optional extra for todays event!! He also fitted a rather snazzy horn Rebekah bought me for Christmas just in case someone emerged from the Wellington Inn or the Colwall road, which I was told was a distinct possibility as the roads were not closed!
I had to use Paul's mountain bike for this event as mine was having its annual service which wasn't such a bad thing as I understand I wasn't able to go as fast - something about surface area and friction!! He was right - I finished last behind a 3 wheeler but apparently if I'd eaten more mince pies I may have beat the 3 wheeler!!
We then set of on our bike ride but had to make an emergency stop virtually straight away to repair someone's chain and then our leader had a puncture at about 15 miles which he was able to repair in double quick time (replacing the inner tube, etc. which he produced from a little pouch under his saddle - these professionals are so well prepared!)
The ride itself was fantastic with everyone being really friendly but best of all I was able to keep up for the 27 miles to the pub. In the end we didn't stay because I'd arranged to go for a run in Bromsgrove with Samantha in the afternoon!
There were about 20 riders in all with just 2 ladies and I think I was the only non-club member who turned up so if any of you want to have a go next year, you'd be made welcome. Regards, Julie '
Thanks again, again Julie

Mortimer Forest Hill 16/12/07 by Rich Walsh
' Was suprised at the lack of turn out from fellow malvern runners for this one considering what a good race it is. conditions were better on foot than last year resulting in faster times.In a field of 347 runners Chris Wilson from Worcester AC was first to cross the line in a time of 1:05.48. i had a good race knocking about 4 mins off last years to finish in 1:13.48 for 14th place. Battled it out well with fellow malvern local Matt Scriven who finished about 30 secs ahead for 9th place, and to my suprise finished ahead of usually super quick matt james(who wins a lot of the local races) but believe he may have been recovering from flu. These faster runners should be ill more often! Carl Anthony was the only other malvern runner there as far as i know, who did a respectable 1hr34 to finish in the top half of the field.
Thanks, Rich
Mortimer Forest Hill Race 1612/2007 by Carl Anthony
' After seeing the car frozen at 10pm on Saturday night I wasn’t looking forward to a trip to the wilds of Shropshire for what everybody kept telling me was a “real” fell race, particularly as the word hill appeared in the race title. Luckily it had warmed up a bit Sunday morning so things were looking up. The race starts from the grounds of a posh private school at Overton just outside Ludlow. There were good toilets and changing facilities and the bonus of a van selling bacon butties and burgers if you made it back to the finish. About 350 runners turned out for the 11am start, with myself the only Malvern Jogger on parade (you were sorely missed Big Cheese). The course after leaving the school grounds and crossing the main road quickly started to climb through the forestry on a narrow bottle neck of a path that meant we were not making rapid progress. There was then section dodging trees before the first eye opener of a hill. This was a single file muddy track which was very steep and everyone was down to a very slow climb, my calves were burning by the top of this hill (only a mile in). There was then more gradual climbing and some big descents before what was described to me as three rolling hills (ha! Rolling! They were V shaped). They were very steep descents that then went straight into very steep ascents; these were not that high except for the last killer one, they will be fondly remembered for a long time. There was then a lot more gradual climbing and descending until we were at the highest point running on cut bracken. This was followed by a lot of fast descent down very muddy slippery tracks. The track levelled out with a mile to go which was very welcomed but with a glance across the valley my heart sank as I could see people climbing again. There was a nasty short hill with half a mile to go that probably caught a lot of people out. The finish was then back down the track we started on through the wood. So with the Garmin saying there was still about 0.4 of a mile to go I started to make progress on the two runners ahead. Unfortunately the finish was not at the start and came out of nowhere at about 9.7miles. I finished a respectable 149th out of 347 finishers in a time of 1hr34m53s. I was told the finishing times were faster this year as the ground was frozen in a lot of places that meant it wasn’t as muddy as normal. Local runner Matt Scriven finished 9th in 73m09s and former Jogger Rich Walsh came 14th in 73m49s. This was a well marshalled race however the organisers took a very long time to sort out the results and the prize ceremony was over an hour after the finish. I’m writing this on Monday night and my legs are really hurting now, it’s a real experience for anybody that has done the beacon race and is looking for another challenge. Cheers,Carl '
Thanks, Carl

Christmas Pudding Run 10, 9/12/07 by Chris Barker
I didn't have the best of luck when I was snapped by a speed camera on route in Walsall. I took me rather by surprise so I didn't have time to comb my hair first. Hopefully there won't be any film in it but if you fancy having a whip round for me... but at least it didn't rain as I had convinced myself I was going to get drenched for the third Sunday out of the last four.
The ten mile course itself wasn't especially scenic, particularly if you are a Malvernite, and involved running alongside a few miles of busy road. This resulted in a road rage incident at one point about 100 yards in front of me between a competitor and a Land Rover. This wouldn't have happened if the runner had been on the path just to his left!
Personally, I had a close encounter with some plastic fencing near the start and just managed to stay upright. Wondering what the hell it was doing there, it turned out to be the finishing funnel ready to be put in place as soon as the runners had left.
All finishers received a Christmas pudding plus a fine medal which is one of the few actually worth keeping plus other edible goodies. I was especially pleased to receive the Xmas Pud as I am not a lover of Christmas shopping and this meant a bit less to do. Unfortunately its not what you would call family size!
Over 700 did this last year so I assume roughly the same number turned out this time. Starring for the MJs were, in finishing order Rich Walsh (nil pwa), Emma G. who took it easy due to injury finishing in 1.06, Jim Apps, Jill Brierly, Phil Jackson, Roger Brierly, Chris Barker after much huffing and puffing 1.17, Steve Roode, Julie 1.2? and Samantha Caseley. Well done to Emma who was 3rd lady overall and winner of the Female Vet 35 prize.

Tour of Pendle Fell Race 17/11/07 By Richard Walsh
' went into this race completely relaxed and laid back which was probably a good thing considering the ordeal i was about to put myself through! the first hour an a bit was very enjoyable, having no climbs that much worse than the beacon race so was able to enjoy the spectacular views around. i was worried id started too slowly but by the end of the race i realised this was certainly a good stategy! around half way there was a descent so steep and slippery i must have fallen over and slid on my bum about three times! the second half of the race was where the ascents and descents became proper tough, about 3 hills too steep to run taking a good part of 15 mins to ascend. by the last hill i was well knackered and was only saved by a supply of jelly babies i had on me. although the last two miles were downhill, this wasn't easy in a fatigued state. i think i may have fallen over again! still- although i thought i may not make it back alive at one point it's one of the best spent 2hr53mins iv had running. beats london marathon ten times over! Rich '
Thanks, Richard

Forest of Dean Trail Series Race 1 (15km) 25/11/07 By Phil Jackson
' The Forest of Dean is an area I love and the race started at one its most beautiful spots, Mallards Pike Lake. I knew Julie was doing it so I thought I would have a go too. For the 15 km you do three laps of a loop on forest tracks centred on the lake. It was reasonably warm and sunny and conditions under foot were not too bad. There was also a 10k at the same time (run by Julie and Samantha Caseley) and a 5k. I was quite pleased with my time (1 hour 12 minutes) but I was really doing it to build up some easy miles (I'm aiming for 100 miles in one month; up to 91 for November at the moment!) The next one in the series is January 6th and I thoroughly recommend it. Yours, Phil '
Thanks, Phil

Forest of Dean Trail Series Race 1 25/11/07 By Julie Caseley
' Three intrepid MJ's (Samantha, myself and Phil Jackson) motored down to the lovely Forest of Dean this morning to sample the ups and downs of the 1st of a series of 3 races. Not only that, there are also three distances to choose from so all abilities could be catered for.
Having done all three races at 15.4 km last year, I seemed to have come to my senses and decided there wasn't much point and opted for 2 laps and the 10.4 km, as did Samantha. On the downhill stretch of the second lap, I was grinning inwardly knowing I didn't have to go round again, unlike Phil who opted for the 15.4 km and 3 laps. It was very competitive, the winner of the 15.4 km being a member of the British Triathlete squad (assuming that was his fleecy he was wearing!!) and the 1st, 2nd and 3rd placed runners all came in in under an hour. The race was a lot better organised this year with the 15.4 km runners starting at 10 am, the 10.4 kn runners 15 mins later and the 5.4 km runners 15 mins after that. It was also Championchip timed and the presentation was efficient and on time at 12.45 pm. Also, this year they didn't run out of medals for the longer distance runners!! On the whole, a great morning out and already looking forward to the 2nd race in the series on 6 January.
The bacon/sausage bar made a killing - we were lucky in that we got to the queue fairly quickly for our bacon butty. Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Tour of Pendle Fell race 17/11/07 by Jon Newey
' Rich Walsh and I made a trip up to Lancashire yesterday (Saturday) for the Tour of Pendle Fell Race. This was Rich's first proper fell race and he seemed to enjoy it.
It's a well-known event on the fell racing scene and this year attracted 287 runners. The weather looked grim ont he trip up there, but cleared as we waited for the start making the tops visible. It's a tough race over 17 miles with 4800ft of climbing. It actually scales Pendle three times from different angles and has a bit of everything; near vertical climbs and descents, fast moorland tracks, stream crossings and bogs.
The ususal relaxed fell race start. "OK you lot off you go". Rain held off although the wind on the tops was fierce and pretty cold. Not seen the full result, but this year it looks like the record went as Lloyd Taggart got round in 2h 11m, just a few seconds quicker than Rob Jebb's previous record. Obscene!
I was going OK and was in the top 20 or so for all but the last mile or two when on the descent to the finish i totally bonked. Wobbly legs, blurred vision, the full works. Got passed by loads of runners but managed a 2h 39m for 32nd place.
Rich did well for his first try, about 2h 53m and for about 75th place. He seemed to enjoy it anyway (which means he could have gone faster i suppose!!!). He's now got a qualifying run for next year's Three Peaks which next year is a round of the World Mountain Running Series. I'm encouraging him to defer his London place! '
Thanks, Jon

Suicide Six(ish) 18/11/07 by Chris Barker
' I'm a Malvern Jogger, Get me out of here' These are the words I was ready to shout if things got a bit on top of me as I was not quite sure what to expect. Generally speaking it wasn't anywhere near as hilly as I thought and on a day when it didn't end up trying to snow it could have been quite pleasant. Having said that we must not make light of its most outstanding feature which was the steam crossing. It comes 4.5 miles from the start but you won't need to know that because the noise of the spectators and shrieking of some of the competitors tell you to prepare yourself because its not far away. Its wider than I thought and deep enough to make sure you have to wade through it because running is impossible. The bottom is so uneven that there is every chance of tripping and submerging yourself and you wouldn't want to do that because its was very cold and it stunk! I had a nasty moment when the runner next to me stumbled and almost used me to right himself which could have meant both us could have been underwater. Neither did we get the sort of mud I was expecting. The Mayhill Massacre continues to reign supreme as the mud race. No results yet but last year 644 took part so probably more this year. The total ascent was only 665ft so I'm expecting a harder run at Mortimers Forest on 16/12/07 which involves 1700ft of climbing. In the end I collected my goody bag, pleased that it was only six miles given the weather and it was certainly better than eating bugs and having creepy crawlies tipped on your head!
Five MJs were there, the finishing order being, Phil Jackson, Jim Apps, Ian Barker, Chris Barker and Julie Caseley.

Sodbury Slog 11/11/07 by Paul Newman
' Hi Christoph, Nick Steve, Ian Barker and myself today, ran, slid, and crawled our way around The Sodbury slog... what an event!! When we arrived the heavens opened and 1200 runners tried to warm up in the wet, the announcer appologised that the course wasn't quite as wet and muddy as previous years and I wondered what I had let myself in for!!
At 11 am we observed the two minutes Remembrance Day silence and The Last Post then right on queue the sun came out! Fantastic!
For the first 4.5 miles I wondered what all the fuss was about all the talk of mud, hills,styles and water jumps it reminded me of a typical Sunday run let by Chris, he must have trained us well I thought! There was a pleasant carnival atmosphere with people in fancy dress it felt quite surreal to be overtaken by three guys dressed in coconuts and grass skirts! We also had a gorilla, and also had a guy dressed as a cow - he was looking very worried as we ran through a field of cattle. I said to him "What have you come as?". He said "a Friesian cow". I pointed to the male cows and said "Ahh bullocks", he said "Its true I tell You!".
At 8 miles the fun started crawling through water filled ditches, at times face down in the mud up to your knees in mud. Fantastic !! I am off to book up for next year!!. Its the best fun you can have with your clothes on or off!! (must be doing it wrong)
The times were approx Nick 1.15, Rachel Samuel 1.21 (99th), Steve Roode 1.24 and Ian Barker 1.28. 'Paul
P.S. Many thanks to Rachel for letting me have her place I owe you a few Beers Rachel and Clare!! '
Thanks, Paul

Guy Fawkes 5 Tewkesbury 4/11/07 by Chris Barker
Malvern Joggers turned out in force for this one. I counted a total of 22, although I could have missed a few in the fog, amongst a total of nearly 400, a record for this event.
As I said previously its a flat 5 mile road race with two small undulations which take you over the M5. There were some notable performances especially by our ladies who won three awards. Emma Gooderham was 3rd lady overall, Sandra Lane was 1st in her age category and Jill Brierly was 3rd in hers. Steve Roode was competing in his first race since becoming a granddad!!! Unfortunately there were no team prizes. I don't have the results yet, but our ladies may have won that one too if there was.
Well done to organisers Tewkesbury AC for some excellent post-race hospitality with an fine selection of cakes etc and a race memento choice of a water bottle or a mug. Just the job for that cup of tea you were gagging for straight after. Why not do it next year. More of an occasion than a race!

Snowdownia Marathon 27th October 2007 By Ruth Johnstone
' Beguiled by the prospect of autumn sunshine and spectacular scenery, I rashly decided to enter this one, just one month after running the Clarendon marathon. The route is essentially a loop around Snowdon. Starting from Nant Peris, you go up the Llanberis Pass to Pen y Gwrd, then a fast 8 mile descent down to Beddgelert, and then up and down along the Canaerfon road as far as Waunfawr, where at mile 21 the route takes an old miners’ track to climb over the hills, reaching the highest point of the course at 24 miles, followed by a steep 900ft descent, partly off-road, into Llanberis. The start at least was dry, but the weather quickly set in, with high winds from Pen y Pass onwards and the second half being very wet. As a result, the climb over the hills into Llanberis was in the cloud, and the grassy descent very slippery. All went well until I regained the tarmac on the descent into Llanberis: my legs completely seized up, adding 3 minutes to my time and losing me three places! Still, all in all, I’m fairly pleased with the result given the conditions and the terrain: 3:27:49 and 9th lady. Cheers Chris! '
Thanks Ruth

50K World Championships, Palermo, Sicily 14/10/07 by Emma Gooderham
' Well I did it and the whole experience was fantastic. The race went really well dispite the delayed start (40 minutes - they're a bit laid back in Sicily), the temperature - (approaching 30 degrees) and the hills (I thought it was flat but they decided to take us up a hill four times, the last at 47km). I finished the final race in 5th place, with the other two British ladies finishing 6th and 7th. I finished in 3 hours 45 minutes and 17 seconds. This gave me an overall placing of 6th in the IAU 50K trophy as your time in the selection race is added on (3 hours 50.11 at Boddington). I was beaten in the final by ladies from Italy (1st), Austria (2nd), Australia (3rd) and Japan (4th). I was really pleased with my performance, and the other ladies and man representing England were absolutely fantastic company. The English male (Julian Rendall) came second in the final and overall. Am home now and legs not too bad, actually enjoyed it this time!. Will try and knock another 5 minutes off next time? '
Thanks, Emma

Beacon Race 13/10/07 by Carole Green
' Sorry folks - time was around two minutes slower than last year - took a tumble (on the flat part leading up to the Gold mine) not very spectacular but lost time as stuck on the floor due to bruised cocyx sustained in the loft (didn't fall through the hatch!) As a result walked far too much of race. ( got fed up with the wait at A & E - would still have been there around 10pm - so by 7pm left, went to One Stop for plasters and just made it home for the big match) However, enjoyed the second half of race and company of Ron the vice president of Worcester AC - need more preparation for this race for a big performance next year!
Congratulations Jon Newey, Sandra and Ruth, hope Lisa is ok. Very proud of my son William - aiming under the hour, time 1 hour and 23 seconds, so not far off - quicker than last year, again with little training but perhaps a little lighter. Unfortunately, Tom and Dave were not fit. Wonderful day with great support and 40/1 bet on England still open. Best wishes Carole Green '
Thanks, Carole

Stroud Half Marathon 21/10/07 by Julie Caseley
' The weather conditions were perfect for the running of the 26th Stroud Half Marathon - fairly cool, no wind and sunny. Dan Robinson started us all off then joined the masses and jogged round in about 1 hr 20 mins. He scrubbed up very well ready to present the prizes at 1.45 pm! The winner finished in about 1 hr 9 mins so I was only 40 minutes behind him and 30 seconds faster than last year. Given another few miles and I may have caught him up??!! ( in my dreams).
Samantha had a good race finishing in 1:53:25, over 6 minutes faster than her first half marathon at Stroud in 2006. Other MJ's included Nick Hitchings, Richard Walsh, Jill and Roger Brierly, Lucy Prosser, Steve Roode, Alison and Rob Winwood. (sorry to those who ran and I didn't see).Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Burnham-on-Sea Half Marathon 7/10/07 by Chris Barker
' The first objective was to fight my way through all the hogweed or should I
say the Hogweed Trotters who supplied 50 of the 350 competitors. Also in the
line-up was a runner from the Cheddar Running Club. Being the Big Cheese I
felt a strange affinity towards him but decided not to chat to him as he looked
a bit mouldy!
No-one took me up on my suggestion that we should all do this one which left me
as the sole MJ or should I say the MJ with soul. Look out James Brown. 'Get
up, I feel like being a running machine' or perhaps not!
Setting the virtual partner for a 1.50 finish, I took off at a steady pace. I
had no choice really, there were other people in my way but helped by a flat
course and Tesco's best own label energy drink was able to run the legs off the
virtual partner as he disappeared off the Garmin on the right-hand side. I
finally poodled in for a 1.46.58, not bad compared to my recent comparative
efforts. Of course, if I had done badly I could always have blamed whoever it
was that stole the 30 direction signs and mile markers put out by the
organisers the day before. It wasn't the local yobos as they always throw them
over a hedge into someone's garden. These had been stolen. I know the MJs are
considering organising there own race but it wasn't us. Honest guv!
Post race it was off to the Quick Bite where this time I resisted the Mega
Breakfast not wanting to fall asleep in my car on the beach like last year. Who
knows the tide could have come in and I could have woken to find I was in China
for the Beijing Olympics. Come to think of it that's probably the only way
I'll get there! '

Malvern College Interhouse Cross Country: "A sort of Life of Brian", 5k
or to give it another name 'Phil Jackson Dazzles His Pupils' as Phil himself
reports:-
' In the last newsletter, Mike Theelke offered us "no. 2 in my occasional
series Obscure Races No Other MJ Will Ever Do. I would like to add to this
series! Every Saturday afternoon each boarding house at the College enters a
few runners (usually 5 or 6) in one of a series of races each of which is
named. This was my first opportunity to enter such a race (as a guest runner,
wearing my Malvern Joggers vest with pride) and it's very good for the kids to
see one of their teachers competing with them on the same terms. This course
heads out across the common (no mud, but there was a water jump) to Peachfield
Road, down Longridge Road to Poolbrook, left onto Barnards Green Road and left
again onto Geraldine Road to the Chase School. Here we turned right to take the
foot path past Qinetiq up to Court Road. Then it's uphill up Woodshears, under
the railway and back into the College. I did it in 22.59 which put me 10th out
of 40 kids (and one other teacher). The boys all start off really fast and I
thought I was going to embarrass myself but I gradually picked them off one by
one as they slowed down. Great for street cred with the kids! The photo shows
me with the College's top runner Sam Bayliss who did it in 17.30, winning by
two minutes.'
Thanks, Phil

New Forest Half Marathon 07/10 by Rob & Alison Winwood
' An unusual location to choose you may think, but Rob's parents live in the
New Forest and the route takes you across the forest and down to the the coast.
This was out second attempt at this distance and at this rather scenic race.
After twelve months with Malvern Joggers we were feeling confident of our
ability to finish, at least, and were hoping for a record time of 2 1/2 hours.
It all started very well with the other runners pulling us along to make a
9-minute first mile and we kept a good 10 minute pace for the next 6. As we
tired the course turned up hill and we slowed slightly to end with a time of 2
hours 17, far better than we had ever hoped. Wearing our MJ tops meant we got
plenty of cheering on, comments about how far we'd come and apologies for not
having any hills! '
Alison and Rob Winwood
[we were brought down to earth with a bump, however, by my Mum's comment that
there must have been a staggered start (there wasn't) because surely 'all those
old crocks' wouldn't have been ahead of us otherwise! ...R] '
Thanks, Rob and Alison

Berlin Marathon 30/9/07 by Alison Chaundy
' Unlike Haile (can't spell his surname, Salassee?) I did not break any world
records at the Berlin Marathon. In fact he could have run it twice, had a
massage, and a few cups of tea in the time it took me to get round. However, I
did manage to get round in under 5 hours, which after London's 5:01 I was
chuffed about.
The course, as you know is one of the flattest and fastest (unless your name is
Alison), the weather was ideal, cool but dry. I was running with a pal who was
a Marathon Virgin and the aim was to " stick together & get round" which we
both did. Having been lucky enough to run in London twice, the crowds in Berlin
were far more reserved and far fewer in numbers. There were very few fancy
dress runners, we saw one penguin and a couple of Aston Villa fans and that was
it. Hey, at least no Bakewell Tarts beat us at this one.
All in all, we're glad we did it but not sure we'd do it again. It is however,
a great marathon not only for serious runners who want to try for a PB but also
first timers with it being so flat. The post race beer is pretty good too!!
Working in Oxford all week now so still looking difficult to get to Wednesday
nights, I'll keep trying. Hope you are all ok, keep pounding! '
Thanks, Alison

Beacon Race 13/10/07 by Ruth Johnstone
' Thought I'd add a bit of colour for your Beacon Race report as the 'official'
results don't do the MJs justice. Please edit with care - I don't think that
the official second and third ladies are MJs; if they are, then please be more
tactful in the last two sentences!
In the ladies' section, there was quite a challenge for the top three
positions. The winning lady took the lead early on, but new member Sandra and I
battled throughout for second place, with Sandra beating me on the uphills, and
me easing past her on the downhill sections. I managed to overtake Sandra on
the descent down to St Ann's Well, putting me in second place going into the
final switchbacks. Yet Sandra pulled off a phenomenal sprint (yes, we now have
a sprinter in our midst!) in the finishing straight that I simply didn't have
the strength to challenge. The final result was that the top three women came
in within 30 seconds of each other, with MJs Sandra & I achieving second and
third place. Due to Worcester AC's arcane rules, however, Sandra & I came away
with vets' prizes, whilst the 'official' second and third ladies actually came
in several minutes behind the MJ geriatrics! '
Thanks, Ruth

Beacon Race comment by Jon Newey
Beacon Results are up on the Worcs AC website. Some people were questioning the
results saying that the results at the HQ were a minute slower than they had
recorded on their watches. It was a slow day though with the conditions a bit
like running through treacle. My 48.01 was 30 seconds slower than last year
despite my placing being a bit better. Winners time was a bit better though
than last year!
Thanks, Jon

Beacon Race comment by the Big Cheese
Having now had a look at the results we fielded a total of 32 runners, up from
29 of last year, a record for this the fifth Beacon Race of our existence.
This includes Jim Apps who was down as a Hasher and Lisa Dainty who
unfortunately was a DNF. I don't recognise Tony Knight and Peter Collins and
would appreciate it if they could introduce themselves to me on Wednesday
night. We would have had a few more but three of our runners had a place that
they were unable to use, plus myself. I'll be back next year!
Especially well done to MJs Sandra and Ruth, who as the results show, were 2nd
and 3rd ladies despite not receiving the prizes for these places. Sandra was
only 21 seconds behind the winning lady and Ruth was only 11 seconds behind
Sandra.
Thanks to our social guys who organised a real good do at the Bengal Brassiere.
18 were there in total to enjoy an excellent meal and get home in time to see
England kick France out of the Rugby World Cup! A perfect end to a perfect day!

Bells of Pattingham 14/10/07 by Julie Caseley
' As well as the Beacon Race yesterday which, I must say I thoroughly enjoyed
(even more so when it was over), I also ran the Bells of Pattingham this
morning. Eric was also there flying the MJ flag. I tend to forget from one
year to the next how "undulating" some of these multi-terrain races are so I
apologise now Eric if I gave the impression it was flatter than you expected!!!
The start of the race was delayed by 15 minutes as all runners and spectators
had to funnel through a single gate (all 800+) and walk over a disinfected mat
before entering the field where the race began because of the recent Foot and
Mouth outbreak. The course was a single undulating/hilly lap of just over 7
miles on various surfaces including tarmac, grass, farm tracks, woodland and
open fields.
There was the usual horse brass to all competitors as well as some lovely
harvest cake and tea or coffee. The presentation was as efficient and prompt
as ever (some clubs could learn a lot from the Bells organisers - not
mentioning any names!!)
I managed the course in 1:02:09, a whole 3 seconds faster than last year - a PB
is a PB after all!! I'm not sure of Eric's time as I was changing when he
finished but Paul saw him and he was taking it very steady - unusually sensible
for a runner!! I, however, will now be biking and giving the legs a rest until
the Stroud Half next Sunday
after which I will definitely be needing my massage!! Need I say more? Best
wishes, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Great Clarendon Marathon, 30th September 2007 by Ruth Johnstone
' I was a little nervous about this one: off road, and hilly. So, in dutiful race preparation, I actually walked the course with my trusty Garmin, which reliably informed me it was 8,000 feet up and 7,500 feet down. As a result, race strategy was to be conservative, aiming for about 4 hours which, based on past results would put me about 10th lady. Well, sod that: the downhills were just too tempting!. Result: 3 hours 31 & second lady.
Oh, and “trusty” Garmin now tells me it was a mere 4,000 feet ascent.

Great North Run 30/9/07 by Lee Gough
I had no idea what to expect about the race itself and went through a major ‘can’t do it’ crisis in the week leading up to it – culminating in a conversation at 4 am on the morning of 30th September when I suggested to my husband that we get up and leave the B&B driving south and forgetting all about the race. He, of course, told me not to be so bl…. Stupid, he had not driven all this way for nothing!
The atmosphere at the ‘village’ (with over 50,000 people milling around) was amazing – I tried spotting celebs. but think they must have been elsewhere! With the starting gun, we herded down towards the start – moving constantly and passing Bobby Robson, where we all queued to slap his hand as we passed (well, I did!). We were off – lots of ‘uggy uggy uggy’s’ under the tunnels and snatched conversations with those around added to the interest of the day – leaving Newcastle and Gateshead and the interesting scenery, we headed for some pretty boring countryside (I know runners don’t take much interest in that, but I think it adds to being outdoors). The roadside entertainment consisted of bands and people offering sweets, biscuits etc. Added to this there was a constant supply of water and energy giving drinks. I had been warned that it was difficult to run due to the volume of people and thought this would suit me, it was a relief to find spaces where you could move slightly faster but on the whole it was more of a ‘jostle’ than a jog. Imagine my surprise when a familiar face appeared at my side – Alison Findlay – after a brief conversation we parted, she was on a mission – I’ll leave her to explain! and I did not see her again – not surprising really, I guess! I have to say there have been few occasions in my life when I wished to be a man – but yesterday was one! They are able to relieve themselves almost anywhere – or so it seemed yesterday – not a practice I condone but under such exceptional circumstances – i.e the long queues for the loos – I’m sure I lost at least 20 minutes of my time queuing (well, that’s my excuse).
To return to the race – the final 2 miles were terrific – running down the hill and along the sea front – to a sea of faces – trying to spot my own loved one’s smiling face – relief he was there! I mused on the long drive home with a certain amount of discomfort (I did not have chance to stretch out properly, and I was paying for it!) that I would not do anything like this again. I have just registered for next year!!! '
Thanks, Lee

Borehamwood Half, 30th September by Mike Theelke
' I was away in London last weekend so missed the Upton Bishop cakefest, but I can offer you no. 2 in my occasional series Obscure Races No Other MJ Will Ever Do.
Given the start of this one was right next to Elstree TV and Film Studios I had high hopes that the organisers might have used their works as a theme for the race – Princess Leia could have started the race, or the Mitchell family could have staffed the drinks stations. Sadly it had passed them by. Still, a nice friendly race with about 200 entrants: the stewards were plentiful and encouraging, the local mayor not only started the race but hung around for two hours to congratulate and shake the hand of each finisher and present them with a horse brass, and there was a very keen Red Cross lady who checked each runner was OK (with a somewhat hopeful look in her eye, I thought). Similar in character to the Wolverhampton course although a bit more rural; no serious hills but not many flat bits either. I thought I was going pretty well until the course defied the laws of physics by going uphill for the last three miles having never gone downhill, but I still finished in 1:51, which I’m ashamed to say is a V50 PB. Mike '
Thanks, Mike

Great North Run 30/9/07 by Alison Bayley
' I think the intrepid gentle joggers have all made it safely back from the GNR on Sunday. I'm sure the others will let you know their account of things if they haven't already. It was just a fantastic day, what else can I say. The sun shone (actually it was quite warm) and the atmosphere was great. The crowds really helped to take my mind off the miles and I didn't really start to feel too tired till 10 miles. I bumped into Lee at half way, but lost her again when I had to make an unscheduled vaseline stop!! She looked like she was going really well. I didn't see Enos, but think he finished a couple of minutes ahead of me (if only I hadn't had to queue for that portaloo at 9 miles, but I wasn't doing a Paula for anyone!!) I plodded home in 2 hours 37 which I know isn't very fast, but considering 2 months ago I wasn't running at all and my leg was still bad I'm really pleased - big thanks to Neill. I spent the first half chasing a giant inflatable banana and the second half chasing a pint of guinness and didn't catch either - typical. Anyway, it looks like I might have run out of excuses for missing Wednesday's now so hope to see everyone soon. Alison.'
Thanks, Alison

The Badger Bite 7/10/07 by Julie Caseley
' This lovely little completely off road, multi-terrain race is billed as the "perfect preparation for the Bells of Pattingham" (next Sunday - they are neighbours after all!!) There were no entries on the day this year as this has become a very popular race recently with entries full by 25th September. The course is 6 km (3.75 miles) on tracks and paths through woodland and countryside between the villages of Badger and Beckbury. I'm sure there are badgers around but I didn't see any but "the bite" is the short but sharp uphill finish towards the end.
Don Goodman (ex footballer and Sky Sports commentator) was there to start and run the race as well as present the prizes at the pub afterwards as well as cartoonist Geoff Tristram (he didn't run but was promoting his three books at the pub!) All finishers were given a very colourful cartoon print by Geoff and both celebraties were on hand to sign the prints in the pub.
Finishing in a relatively good time enabled us to get to the pub in Beckbury and a car parking space and be almost first in line at the bar and for hot pork and beef bagettes. I finished a minute quicker than last year in a time of 31:32.
Unfortunately there were only 2 portaloos for 300 runners (lots of hedge watering going on - men and women!!) Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Upton Bishop Big Dipper 30/9/07 by Chris Barker
No need to go to Newcastle to do a race when you can go to Upton Bishop near Ross-on-Wye. Only 30 minutes from Malvern via Ledbury not the M50 as I said earlier, and you haven't got 50,000 other runners in your way. In fact the total was 63 so finding a bit of elbow room wasn't a problem. The Big Dipper is so called due to its undulating nature in case you hadn't guessed. More like a white knuckle ride with the up and down nature of it giving me a bit of turbulence unless that was my pre-race breakfast.
6 MJs did it which isn't a lot but it was 6 more than last year and what superb value, only six quid which included a free t-shirt and as many cups of tea, coffee and cakes as you wanted, all in with your race entry fee. Regarding the cakes I think the local WI were on speed. Finishing order was Paul Millsom, Carl Flint, Chris Barker, Phil Jackson, Julie Caseley and Samantha Caseley. Well done to Julie who with a devastating turn of speed and a ruthless display of quality distance running, blitzed the other competitors in her age group to win a memento and a bottle of wine...or something like that!

Run To Remember 10k, 16/9/07 by Marc Bingham
' Held at the Countryside Centre near County Hall in Worcester and organised by the Noah's Ark Trust.
This event is more of a fund-raising / awareness event rather than a hardcore race day however it was still a great day out. There were 3 races on the day a 1km fun run for the local kids all dressed in fancy dress. Tigger, lions and cats and the like all did this race earlier on in the day and in the end a young lad in a dinosaur costume came away the winner. The other two races were a 5k and a 10k which ran simultaneously. The course was actually a 5km so us 10k'ers got the pleasure of running around it twice! I found the course itself to be superb. It was a great mixture of running through woodland and out into open field and then back into woodlands again. I tend to run mostly on paths around Worcester City Centre so this is still something new to me.
It was well marshalled throughout (Cat and Ian Barker were there doing their bit) and the course quite well signposted. That said however 3 chaps did get a bit lost, however I'm not entirely sure how that came about.
Noah's Art Trust's Website suggested that the course was mildly undulating and there was a small hill at around 4km but after doing Tenbury (which was described in the same way) it really wasn't all that bad. It isn't a PB course due to the number of tree stumps, styles and sharp turns that need to be navigated but I did pull in a PB of 50.98 which I'm quite happy with.
All over I was very happy to attend on the day. I believe Noah's Ark Trust intend the day to evolve into a fund-raising, family day out and from what I saw the children that were there were having a great time. I did manage to help raise about £320 for the trust via sponsorship from my work colleagues and friends so I'll be spending the next few days collecting that. All in all, a nice alternative to doing 3 laps around the racecourse and you get a really nice medal to boot! Stay happy, Marc '
Thanks, Marc

Stretton Skyline, 16/9/07 by Jon Newey
' I decided another three times round Pitchcroft was more than I could take, so I drove to Church Stretton with Matt Scriven for the Stretton
Skyliner fell race. This was throwing myself in at the deep end as I've done very little "proper" running lately and only just started thinking
about getting at least a bit fit for the Beacon Race.
The race is 19-miles and has 4450ft of ascent, making it a mere B-category fell race. The weather was near perfect for the 84 starters.
No big names there so no fear of the 2h17mins record going!
Matt and I started well and stuck it out in the lead group of six up the first and second climb. By the third summit there was just me, Matt and Marc Bollom (Mercia Fell Runners) left. Matt was suffering and fell back by the next climb. As the last summit began I was still with Marc and we were joined by Brian Cole (Stoke AC). I was feeling rough by now due to lack of miles in my legs and they pulled away on the never ending drag up to the long Mynd.
Stopped for a breather at the top then staggered my way down to the finish line. I did 2.46.04, 7-mins down on the other 2 (Cole won), but still over three mins ahead of 4th place. Matt was 8th in 2.54.
A good course and not too brutal so I'd recomend it to anyone who wanted to do a fell race in the long category. '
Thanks, Jon

Goodrich 10K 16/9/07 by Peter Wilson
' There's a Goodrich Castle overlooking the River Wye near Ross but this race started from another Goodrich - a factory on the outskirts of Wolverhampton. Believe me you would not confuse the two. However this was a good, smallish 10K with a mainly rural route along country lanes. My only quibble was the mile markers in a metric race - why do organisers so often do that? To me it feels better to tick off the Ks rather than waiting - and waiting - for another mile marker to appear in the distance. In fact why not have half K markers to add to that sense of getting somewhere!!
It was a mostly flat course with definite PB potential. Fellow MJ Nick Hitchings came a lot closer than me with a time of 39'50 whereas I managed to knock a massive three seconds off my MB (monthly best) of 43'34 achieved at Lichfield the previous week. Regards, Peter '
Thanks, Peter

Cirencester Park 10K, 23/9/07 by Phil Jackson
' There were three of us for this race, me, Steve Roode and Rachael Samuel (if there were others, we didn't see them). It was a slow uphill start and due to the number of runners and the narrow path it was difficult to get past people at first. After the uphill bit there was a track through the woods and then we joined the 2 mile circuit round the polo pitch which was pleasant but undulating with a sharp hill at around 4 km. We ran the circuit twice (doing that hill twice cost me around 30 seconds each time; wish I was quicker up hills - as quick as all the runners who passed me there!) and then returned through the woods and down the hill (fast!) to the start/finish. It was a friendly, enjoyable race which I would do again. I finished in just under 47 minutes (? so knackered I forgot to stop the Garmin), Steve was just behind me and Rachael who scored a PB was just behind him. '
Thanks, Phil

Shuttle/Mercer 10k, 23/9/07 by Julie Caseley
' Jim Apps and myself took part in this County Championship 10k event this morning in mild, cloudy conditions with only a slight breeze - it could have been worse. The course is lovely with only one hill of any note so good times were inevitable. Jim came in in about 42 mins and I ran 50:01, 1:23 faster than last year. There was very good competition from Amazing Feet and Kidderminster and Stourport AC (there was a lot of them too!!)
I don't usually run a 10k with a drink but I''m glad I did today as there were no water stations on the course - my only criticism!!
Samantha came kitted out for the event but didn't start due to an injury she picked up at work during the week - she thought she may be OK but wasn't so hopefully everything will be OK for the Upton Bishop Big Dipper next week. Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Ledbury Chase 13MT, 23/9/07 by Chris Barker
This was not a good race for me and I should have known when I collected my number which was 101. Yes, that where stuff goes and disappears just like my ability to run 13 miles. Maybe that's better than being given 118!
Seven MJs took part in this including one you might know as Walshy who seems to have mysteriously jumped ship to run for another club. After all the training I gave him. I taught him everything I knew. No wonder he's leaving. I knew him when he had nothing. I can remember him buying his first guitar!
At the start, I positioned myself at the back only to find that the race was about to take off in the other direction which meant I was at the front facing the wrong way. After a readjustment, off we went, legs going like pistons. That's the leaders not me! I won't bore you with the Marcle Ridge, lets just say its a hill, allright its a big'un! then along a ridge for a mile and then down a hill so steep my big toes were trying to poke their way out of my trainers and there was a lot of stiles. I told a lady marshal, as I approached one, that I was having trouble getting my leg over. She didn't offer to help!
My game plan of 'jog round in 2 hours' seemed to work as I stumbled in through the finish unchallenged as the last MJ. We didn't all make such hard work of it though as local boy Matt Scriven was 3rd overall and better still MJ Ruth Johnstone was 1st lady and won a bottle of something alcoholic for her efforts
Malvern Joggers in order of appearance if you were stood at the finish, Richard Walsh (just), Mark Cusack, Ruth Johnstone, Paul Newman, Jerry Greer, Carl Flint and Chris Barker

23rd Marathon Du Medoc. France 8th September by Peter Cowling
' This was more of a amazing weekend experience than just a race. Registration was held on the Friday in the town of Pauillac which had been turned into a huge party venue. After picking up our electronic race number and goody bag we started on the food and wine sampling. We were very relaxed by the evening when we attended a "1000 pasta" party in a nearby Chateau. Pasta for starters, pasta for main course and, you guessed, pasta for dessert (chocolate flavoured). This was accompanied with music, dancing and, of course, a lot more wine. We slept very well on Friday night!
Over 7000 people in fancy dress lined up at the start on Saturday and to the accompaniment of an acrobatic aerial violinist and with the chorus of "Oh, Susanna, don't you cry for me. For I come from Alabama with a banjo on my knee" ringing in our ears, we started off with a tour of the town then set off for the vineyards. On route we stopped at about 24 wine tasting stations, maybe 30 water stops which all had cake and fresh and dried fruit and other goodies, and also stops for oysters, ham, steak, ice cream, cheese, whisky and beer and lots of bands, orchestras, and other assorted music. Loads of people had turned out along the route to cheer us on. What an atmosphere! My target was to finish within the 6 1/2 hour cut-off time and we managed it with over an hour to spare. The finishers were rewarded with a goody bag and a bottle of wine then ushered into a marquee where we were offered all sorts of food and drink up to the cut-off time, then it was back to the wine sampling. The partying went on into the night with music, dancing, fireworks and, of course, plenty more wine.
On Sunday we had a leisurely 8K walk through some more vineyards. We had each been given a commemorative 'tastevin' to wear round our necks to use for sampling the wines on route. There are a lot of Chateaus in the Medoc region! We were treated to music and dancing on the way and we finished at a Chateau where we had another great meal accompanied with music and dancing and, of course, plenty more wine. Everyone had a fantastic time and we made some great friends from all over the world. The organisation of the whole event was just perfect and I would absolutely recommend this to anyone. I look forward to returning someday. Regards, Peter '
Thanks, Peter

23rd Marathon Du Medoc. France 8th September by Steve Roode
' Andy Milton and I got to France on the Friday Peter and Yvonne kindly picked us up from the airport, race registration followed by wine sampling from local areas, onto the pasta party with more wine!!
Race day – what an atmosphere 23 wine stops, plus beer, whisky, oysters, beef, cake, ham, ice cream, fruit, cheese, bread and more wine. We finished the race in just under 5.30hrs where we collected our medals, bottle of wine and goodie bags. Then into a marquee with yes even more red wine, beer, food etc, etc.
Following day a walk around the vineyards with more wine tasting, a meal and party, in the afternoon sunbathing by the pool and a chill out – what a weekend!!
I really am looking forward to Pitchcroft on Sunday?? Not!! Cheers, Steve '
Thanks, Steve

Nothing heard from Andy Milton. I assume he survived it!

Bournville Leafy 10K, 16/9/07 by Julie Caseley
' This was our first competitive event since the Wolverhampton Marathon 2 weeks ago and everything went really well on this undulating, scenic course around some of Bournville's lovely parks.
There were approximately 200 runners and the weather was ideal and the course well marshalled with friendly, encouraging folk.
I finished in a time of 50:56 and Samantha in 51:50. At the finish I received a spot prize of £10 to spend at Tri-1st in Harbourne and I was also First Lady Vet 45 with a prize of a £10 Sweatshop voucher. Well worth the trip out!!
Just a quick plug for the Christmas Yacht Handicap (3.6 miles) race at Rowheath Pavilion, Bournville on 16 December 2007 at 11.15 a.m. Great fun and for once the fastest runners don't necessarily win! More info
on www.bournvilleharriers.org. Entries on the day. Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Hydro Active 5K Challenge, 16/9/07 by Emma Gooderham
' I ran the Hydro active 5K challenge in Birmingham today. I came in 4th in a time of 18 minutes 41 seconds, behind the Polish 16 minute 5K runner and two GB athletes. This would be a great event for any gentle joggers or runners who haven't run a race before as it is a good mix of elite athletes to walkers and a great atmosphere - plus you may be on TV. For the quicker runner - not many go under 25 minutes, so even with a field of 3000 runners, you can get a good placing. Oh by the way - it is a womens only race unless you guys want to do it in drag? Hope the Pitchcroft race went well. Emma '
Thanks again Emma

Pitchcroft 10K, 16/9/07 by Chris Barker
Now is this my 2nd or 3rd lap? I'm getting a bit dizzy going round and round this racecourse. Shall I try and jump over one of the fences to try and break the monotony? Its funny what goes through your mind when your doing the Pitchcroft 10K or the Tedium 10K as I call it. Perhaps its my fault for doing it 7 times but there again I wanted to support my fellow MJs.
The Marathon du Medoc it certainly wasn't although I think I did hear Steve Roode requesting a Chateau Lafite Rothchild at the first water station, unable to switch off from his experience the previous Sunday. Special praise should be given though one of our newer runners, Jim Apps, who was doing his second 10k race of the morning! How is this possible I hear you say? Well, the Run to Remember 10K at Nunnery Wood, Worcester was brought forward to 9am which gave Jim two hours to run it and get to Pitchcroft. Which he did and then proceeded to finish 2nd out of the 11 MJs. What a star! Hasher, fund-raiser and all-round good guy!
Numbers of competitors were down this year, probably because the date was switched due to flooding, and the resultant loss of runners not replaced by many signing up for the new date. But the dunkirk spirit prevailed as the organiser managed to get the thing run after all with, in the end, about 100 runners.
The 11 MJs? Finishing order, correct me if I'm wrong guys, Paul Millsom, Jim Apps, Nick Bone, Carl Flint, Carl Anthony, Sim Foreman, Phil Jackson, Chris Barker, Steve Roode, Mike Theelke and Carol Green. We got through it, eh?

Beacon 10K, 2/9/07 by Chris Barker
My 21st race of the year but more importantly my 200th since I started this running lark in 1996, so it was only fitting that I was the first MJ home which wasn't difficult as I was the only one. In a field 128 the only other runner I recognised was Richard Lee of the Ledbury Harriers.
Setting off just up the road from the Beacon Hotel, Haresfield, the route consisted of an undulating (aren't they all) run along country lanes except for a half mile stretch along one of Gloucester's busier roads.
My finishing time of 45.56 was about as good as I was going to do give my exertions of the three previous days but well below this years best of 44.02 but things seemed better when I received the finishing memento, a half pint of beer. Just the job after 6.2 mile of hard running.

Frampton 10K, 21/8/07 by Chris Barker
This was one that was put back due to the July floods so I was pleased to see it was being run a month later. Having seen it sell out before I could get a place, I was more successful for the new date as Eric very kindly injured himself and allowed me to have his place. I had the Gloucester 20 in mind as that one is based at the Community Centre in Frampton and is organised by Gloucester AC. Stroud AC are responsible for this one which is based at the Sailing Club.
Being run a month later meant less daylight but at least the three MJs were home before a torch was needed as the tailenders came home in semi-darkness. Its billed as fast and flat and I would agree with that. Its a road race, run along country lanes with a good running surface where a PB is well possible if your up for it. 380 took part with Nick Hitchings finishing in 40.15 for 65th place, Chris Barker in 44.56 and Derek Goodman in 53.20 after coming back from London with 15 minutes to spare. When you get there you see signs for the Cider Race which made me wonder if I had come to the right place but that is the post-race reward which along with a BBQ is held at the Sailing Club. 'Sailing' hmmm don't think that's a term that would ever be applied to my running style somehow!

Wolverhampton Marathon, 2/9/07 by Paul Newman
' I did it! I did it! I did it!!!!! After the disappointment of having to pull out of the London Marathon I have finally completed a full marathon!
Today myself, Julie and Sam Caseley all competed in the Wolverhampton marathon. We were greeted to bright sunshine at the start of the race and we were warned of the undulating terrain, how right they were! My race went surprisingly well! I completed the first half in 1hr 38 and resisted the temptation to head to the half marathon finishing line! I found the second half more challenging, somebody could have warned me that its a long, long, long way! Half a mile longer than it should of been! (Julie and I compared Garmins at the end of the race only to find that the distance of the marathon was actually 26.68 miles!). I completed the marathon and a bit in 3hrs 37 which considering the terrain and as it was my first attempt was quite pleasing! Id like to thank my fantastic training partners in Helen, Lisa, Stuart, Roger and Jill who have helped me tremendously over the last year, and also to all the other Malvern Joggers for all their advice and support!
Best Wishes, Paul '
Thanks & well done, Paul

Wolverhampton Marathon, 2/9/07 by Julie Caseley
' Briefly, Paul Newman finished in 3:37, I finished in 4:02 (a bit disappointed as I was on target for 4 hours but both me and Paul recorded the course on our Garmins as being nearly 0.5 miles too long - however Samantha got it to be more accurate at just over 26.2) and Samantha, finishing her first marathon, came in at 4:30 but nearly
collapsed on the finish line and had to be tended to by the St. John Ambulance for about 20 mins before she was feeling well enough again. She's fine now, but may lose about 3 toe nails!! Won't be running for 10-14 days now but may see you out and about on my bike!! See you soon. Regards, Julie ' Thanks and well done again, Julie

Torbay Regatta 10K, 26/8/07 by Peter Wilson
' Over the recent August bank holiday weekend Nick Hitchings and myself ventured down to sunny Torquay to fly the flag for the Joggers in the Torbay Regatta 10K. Unusually it was a Sunday evening race, which nonetheless seemed very popular, with nearly 450 entrants and good support along the route.
For those who know Torbay, we began amid the palm trees in downtown Torquay near the marina and headed along the seafront towards Paignton, where we were required to perform two laps of the large green near the pier before returning home. It was a warm evening and that was my excuse for finishing in 44'35. Nick did much better to achieve 62nd place in 40'49. But never mind that, there are worse places to be than the English Riviera on a late summer's night. However when Nick said that he fancied an early run the following morning, I thought he was joking... Cheers, Peter '
Thanks, Peter

Tree Top 10K, 8/9/07 by Chris Barker
This one takes place at the Westonbirt Aboretum, near Tetbury, Gloucestershire which is a 600-acre site, home to one of the 'finest collections of temperate plants in the world and provides a magical setting for the a one-lap course around the Old Arboretum and the Silk Wood'. The late summer weather, with the much hope for Indian Summer created perfect running conditions, as did the gently undulating traffic-free course along the Arboretum's gravel trails.
On another day you might like to stop and read the names of trees along Specimen Avenue and sit on one of the well placed benches and watch the setting sun through the trees. But we had a race to do!!
6 MJs ran this one, Ian Barker, Dave Green, Chris Barker, Phil Jackson, Cathy Barker and Carol Green was the finishing order. Yes a lot of Barkers and Greens! I have to say I fancied myself to be first MJ home but forgot that Ian was doing it and he would have to have a bad day to be beaten by me! Dave surprised me as I finished about 100 metres behind him. I'll have to find out what he's on! At the end there was a lot of talk about what a long 10k it was with the average Garmin reading about 6.4 miles. Scaling my time down I got 45.11. Bit better than 46.34 anyway!
Tetbury is, of course, the location of Highgrove House and the home of Prince Charles and I was rather hoping he was going to join us. Who knows he may have accepted an invitation to be President of the Malvern Joggers. Still, perhaps we'll see him next year.

Race the Train, Tywyn, Wales, 18/8/07 by Chris Barker
This was the 24th running of Race The Train and the best one because it featured Malvern Joggers, Steve Roode, Julie Caseley, Peter Cowling and myself. A better title might be 'Try and beat that Train' of which there are actually two, the second one starting 20 minutes behind the first. At least its not one of your high speed trains, its actually the Talyllyn Railway which is a preserved, privately owned, narrow gauge railway built in 1865 to carry slate. It runs from Tywyn which is just up the coast from Aberystwyth 7 miles inland to Abergonolwyn. I'm sure you know it well! It sounds like an unfair contest and to runners of my standard it is. The train runs on a flat trackbed whilst the competitors run uphill and downdale trying to finish in front of it although it does stop at 3 stations en route.
The first mile is through the town centre then its out into the country for the next 5 miles which run through a valley with some beautiful scenery either side. You actually think you are doing quite well until you hear the familiar sound of a steam train, clattering over the rails with its whistle blowing and its passengers cheering at the runners as they hang out of the windows of the carriages.
The course which is 14.75 miles long, runs alongside the railway as close as is possible but turns a bit nasty from mile 7 where you run through a field ploughed up the day before just like last year I'm told. Then 2 miles along the side of a very steep hill where your left foot is about 12" above your left and you have to avoid slipping down the hill to the bottom as one or two in road shoes did. Then alongside the Dolgoch (water)Falls and through a bog where sliding seemed to be more effective than running. Finally an expected climb up some country lanes, past my campsite and on to the finish in a rather slow time of 2.28. Knowing that it takes the 2nd train 2 hrs 5 mins from the start of the race, I set the virtual partner on my garmin only to find the train beat me by 1.65 miles! But at least we had one runner successful in doing this. Well done Steve Roode! Julie was our 2nd finisher with Peter not far behind me. Seems lately I'm OK at 5 & 10K but half marathon and above I seem to have lost it. It must be there somewhere. All in all, hard work, maybe they should add something to the title of the race, such as, Grim, Tough, Grizzly, Slog or Massacre.
I have to say it was brilliantly organised with a huge marquee at race HQ offering food, seating, tables and protection from the elements. There were changing rooms and showers and the feeling that this was a well staged event. I think we all enjoyed the weekend. The weather was rubbish but at least by the end of it you knew whether your tent was waterproof or not and there's always the Treffidian Hotel at Aberdovey!
Now, where shall we go next year!

White Horse 5K, 16/8/07 By Chris Barker
When you arrive at the race HQ you don't want to find that its now taking place elsewhere and 15-20 minutes away (by car) but that was the case with this one. It should have taken place at the White Heart, Sandhurst, Gloucester but due to flash flooding the day before, was moved to the Pilot Inn at Hardwicke, the other side off Gloucester with only 6 hours notice. Seems The Pilot had no objection to a pub full of thirsty runners.
Having done 2 Severn AC events before I wasn't expecting many runners, 25 perhaps?, the switch of venue possibly reducing this to even less so I was pleasantly surprised to least 75. The reason for this was not 30 years since Elvis Presley passed away, it was, in fact, the Gloucestershire 5K championships.
Its an out and back course along country lanes which means 2.5K, run around a bollard, and come back. Not the most interesting course but it was fast and flat. 5 Malvern Joggers took part, Nick Hitchings, Peter Wilson, Dave Gibson, Phil Jackson, myself with injured MJ Dave Edwards spectating. Phil seemed please with his effort not having done a 5K before but being surprised how fast everyone went off, while I equalled my PB of 21.35.
The presentation followed, the prizes being, as usual for Severn AC races, chocolate bars and biscuits, plus medals for those who had won them in the Glos County Championships presented by the mayor of Gloucester no less.
Chris

Before you read the next report, a marathon is 42K..........
Boddington 50K, 19/8/07 by Emma Gooderham
'Well whilst most of you were having a jolly in sunny? Wales, I was slogging away (finally) at the rescheduled 50 K race at Boddington. It was tough and I have difficulty raising my legs at the moment, but I gave it 100% (nearly collapsed at the finish) and finished in a time of 3 hours 50 minutes and 11 seconds which won me 1st FV35 and 5th lady overall. Now for the gutted bit - the qualifying time for the final in Palmero in Italy in October is sub 3 hours 50. I thought I was on to do it as my Garmin beeped at 30 miles, but my final reading on the Garmin was 31. 26 miles, not 31, so I mustn't have taken the most direct route! On the plus side I turned to my husband at the end and said never again as I was nearly sick, so maybe it was a blessing. However as I am getting the use of my legs slowly back I am warming to the idea again and it is possible I will get a wild card (they offer an additional 15 places in the final on best performances outside the qualifying times). For anyone who wants to try an ultra, Boddington is definately worth a try as the facilities were excellent (like hotel showers, complete with towels at the end), the competitors at this distance are all very supportive and friendly (or is it they are as nutty as me for wanting to go that distance?) and the 14 laps make a long way seem more manageable and you are never far away from home. The marshalling and support was also excellent (although they tried to make one lady go round again!). Hope the Race the train weekend was good, looking forward to the report.'
Thanks, Emma

London Triathlon 04/08/07 report by Cathy Barker.
' Ian and I both competed as runners in teams of 3 doing the Olympic distance in the London Triathlon. Hundreds of people competing in a variety of individual and team events - the organisation was phenomenal! The final leg of the Olympic event is a 10K run – 4 laps of a course taking you out of and back into the Excel Exhibition Centre down in the London Docklands. Ian’s done it before and assured me the route was flat – he forgot the car ramps up into the centre! It was a long day, setting off at 8.30am to arrive in time to register the teams, rack up the bikes and, in my case, meet the rest of my team who I’d not met before. Our event didn’t start until 4pm, so we weren’t running until approximately 5.45pm. It was boiling hot – running on concrete by buildings that had been absorbing the heat all day. The thought of running up those ramps 4 times in that heat was daunting. My swimmer and biker both did really good times and I was more than half way round the first lap when Ian and I crossed – so I knew at that point I was more than ¾ mile in front of him. Each time we crossed he had reduced the distance. By the last lap he’d just about caught me - we crossed not long after I’d turned at the end of the outbound bit for the final time. He finally caught and passed me (with far too much ease for my liking) just before the dreaded ramp! The worst thing was the route took you within feet of someone cooking on a bbq, the smell of hotdogs and burgers whafting over the course – and you had to pass it 8 times! Ian’s team came in 132nd out of over 400 in the event. The timings were a bit dodgy (0.47mins for the transition between bike and runner which would be impossible!). He was given a time of 43 mins but his real time over the actual 10k would have been quicker. I timed myself at 53 mins from when I left the biker, so again; actually over the 10k my time was more like 51 or 52 – close to my PB. Unfortunately my team was issued with the wrong time chip and we’re not listed in the results at the moment but think we came in around 149th/150th. Brilliant day! '
Thanks, Cathy

Cranham Boundry Chase, 11/8/07 by Chris Barker
There are not many races which involve staring and finishing uphill. Also unusual is the distance of 5.8 miles although given the uphill finish, we didn't want 0.4 miles on the end of it. This event is part of Cranham's annual village fete which includes such things as, a cricket match, skittles, a deer roast and, on display, a pedigree Cotswold sheep, but because of foot and mouth livestock movement restrictions, this was replaced by a stuff version!
It promised to be a competitive race with many entrants from Gloucester, Cheltenham and Stroud AC's despite there being only 75 runners in total. The only other MJ was Phil Jackson, who had entered before race day and been given number 902! He was expecting more runners. The only other runner I recognised was Colin Downey of Dudley-Kingswinford RC. If you ever find yourself the only MJ at a race and would like someone to chat to, look out for him. This was his 47th race of the year so far, so he will probably be there somewhere. Grey hair, beard, light and dark blue hooped vest.
I'd done this one once before 3 years ago and my recollection was hills. I remembered correctly although it did make for an interesting race as Phil passed my going downhill as I did the same when we went uphill and in the end there was no more than 20 yards between us. At least we were able to compensate ourselves with a refreshing drink, post-race. Real ale expect and CAMRA member, Phil, had already identified the local, the Black Horse, as the ideal venue where we enjoyed a drink al-fresco. Is there a better way to enjoy a Summer evening on a Saturday night. (Well probably....)

Bupa Great Wales Run 29/7/07 by Steve Roode
' A lovely sunny day – which made a change of late, set off early but not early enough as I had to jog to the start due to very disappointing signposting for this event not one anywhere, very poor!!
Despite that I had a decent run and to my surprise met fellow MJ – Jules (sorry don’t know surname) I saw her at around 2k and we were pretty much together for the rest of the race, it took in some lovely views of the Cardiff Bay area and we ran across the Penarth harbour coming back into the city past the Millennium stadium. Also saw a chap from Malvern called Keith who had just done a night shift, both he and Jules achieved PB’s, and I ran 47.58 not my quickest but good for me.'
Thanks, Steve

TSB Fun & Fitness 4 Mile 2/8/07 by Peter Wilson
' MALVERN JOGGER WINS RACE! (and its not Emma Gooderham - ed)
Rich Walsh finally achieved his personal Shangri La last Thursday by beating all comers in a proper race. It ended years of near misses dating back to an unfortunate disqualification when romping home in a school event (I may not have all the details right but I think Rich dropped the egg).
The race was a 4 miler organised by Severn AC as part of their series of summer events. Around 50 entrants gathered at the Pilot Inn near Hardwicke for an out and back along country lanes towards the village of Elmore (familiar territory to anyone who's done the Gloucester 10 or 20). Largely flat with one hill. To make it more competitive for the not quite super fit, anyone running the course in under 24 minutes is banned from entering again. Rich knew this was his golden opportunity and spent much of the warm up nervously scanning the field for anyone who looked like they might be a threat. Just to wind him up we occasionally said things like, oh look there's Jon Newey.
Rich needn't have worried because he led all the way and at the turn had an unassailable lead. His winning time of 22'59 earned him a lifetime ban which he was delighted to accept. Nick Hitchings (a possible future winner?) did very well to finish 7th in 24'48 and yours truly trailed in eventually in 27'27.
Afterwards Rich very graciously did the honours in the pub and I promised that I would return the compliment when I win my first race. Or when pigs fly, whichever comes first.'
Thanks, Peter

Tenbury 10K 5/8/07 by Chris Barker
At last, I could line up on the start line of a race. 5 weeks and no race it felt like I had been injured. I didn't actually matter what race it was but it just happened to be the Tenbury 10K. Arriving in plenty of time we went for a stroll around the town centre and it was much like we expected, an otherwise thriving market town looking a bit sorry for itself, with shops that will be closed for some time to come with a lot of dried-up silt underfoot and tidemarks which confirmed the extent of the flood levels.
I last did this one 2 or 3 years ago or so I thought. In fact it was 2002, how time flies! but I did bettered that time today I'm pleased to say.
The course, which is not of the PB variety, consists of country lanes of a rather undulating nature. There were 2 hills of note, 1 particularly steep although the coming down was more of a concern than running up. I didn't want to put the brakes on but I also didn't want to do myself an injury and there was a tiny bit of off-road towards the end which lead us on to the field where it seemed to take an eternity to reach the finish in the distance.
Its a fine event which I can recommend to anyone who is thinking about it for next year. There was plenty going on with a running store, massage, race t-shirts for £2, commentator and music provided by BBC Hereford & Worcester personalities. Its certainly grown since my last attempt in 2002 when there were 106 runners, today's events saw 175 taking part.
8 Malvern Joggers took part, as follows Ruth Johnstone (3rd lady) 45.20, Chris Barker 47.39, Steve Roode 49.04, Rachel Samuel 49.23, Phil Jackson 51.22, Mike Theelke 57.10, Carole Green 73.01, Eric Bromage DNF. Though I say it myself, some good performances given the heat and the hills.

Brecon 10 5/8/07 by Julie Caseley
' It took us 1 hr 20 mins to get to the beautiful and picturesque market town of Brecon in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons. The course covered a very scenic and varied route, starting with 1 3/4 laps of the athletic track and finishing with 3/4 lap.
The course was very accurate and although the blurb states that it's a good one for a personal best, the steep hill between 8 and 8 1/2 miles may have scuppered some attempts. It certainly put pay to my attempted finishing time of 1 hr 20 mins which was nearly 3 minutes faster than my previous PB. However, I did finish in a time of 1 hr 21 mins 27 secs. which is 1 1/2 mins faster than my PB so I was quite pleased especially considering the very hot and humid weather conditions.
Samantha also ran this race and finished in a time of 1 hr 30 mins 51 secs.
We also visited Paul's auntie in Brecon so a lovely shower and lunch was very welcome and sitting out on the decking with glass of wine in hand and watching the ducks on the river was just what the doctor ordered!
We'll certainly have another go at this one next year on its 25th anniversary. Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Boddington 50k 21/7/07 by Emma Gooderham
' I had done the training and was relaxing in Cornwall for the week before this big race. I said goodbye to my family at friday lunchtime and set about coming home, leaving my family who were coming back on sat. to see me finish this race as it was just off Junction 10 on the M5 and on the way home. I left sunny Cornwall with my sunglasses on and had no idea what was ahead. I hit Bristol at 4pm, thinking I have loads of time to get home, unpack and make a big pasta meal and relax in preparation for my race on sat. I also noted that the sky looked a bit dull over the Midlands. At 7pm I was still near Bristol, at 10pm I just made it into the safety of my Grans house who lives thankfully in Worcester (high up). I got home at 7.30am sat morning (after a 1 and a half hour journey from Worcester to Pershore). My wonderful neighbour, who stopped our house from flooding, working until midnight to remove water from our garden, took the message that the race was postponed until August (date tbc). So - back to the training, but preparation for the next race seems very trivial at the moment on the scale of what has happened. I hope all MJ's are OK and have coped in the circumstances. Emma Gooderham '
Thanks, Emma

British London 10K Run 1/7/07 by Nick Hitchings
' I decided to run the London 10k for Retts syndrome charity which is a neurological condition from which my 2nd cousin suffers.I had previously run this 5 years ago and hoped to improve my time.After a bomb scare or two i made it to the start and managed to get near the front of 20,000 plus runners but had to wait in a pen for over an hour while the elite warmed up!With my family cheering me on i made my way round the sites of London of which i saw very little due to the pain!Managed 40.09 for 110th position(improved on 5 years ago!) and raised nearly £300,thanks to the MJ'S who kindly sponsored me. Nick Hitchings.'
Thanks, Nick

Devil's Chimney Chase 14/7/07 by Julie Caseley ' Ruth Johnstone and I turned out for the inaugural running of this "almost 10k" event organised by Almost Athletes. The race started at Old Pats Rugby Club in Cheltenham with a lap of the field before heading out along a short section of road and then onto the Cotswold Way and Leckhampton Hill. There was a steady uphill runnable climb when the route crossed the top of the hill (spectators could see the runners running along the escarpment). After the 4 mile point the route took a sharp downward turn and it was downhill virtually all the way back to the finish and another half lap of the field. There was an excellent array of prizes for first 3 male and female athletes as well as prizes in all age categories. The marshalling was excellent (we certainly needed them on the hill) and there were three drinks stations on the course. I finished in a time of 52:11 (I couldn't have gone any faster, so I was quite pleased) but I was determined to beat a runner and her dog who overtook me at about 3 miles. The dog was small and had short legs so I thought I was in with a chance which came at about 5 miles. I'm not quite sure whether the dog was tiring or the runner but I managed to beat them by a minute or two!! Many congratulations to Ruth who was 3rd lady finisher. Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Wyre Forest Half Marathon 8/7/07 by Julie Caseley
' After all the rain we've been having, the weather was beautiful for this tough little half marathon. Last year some of us were fell running in Devon so it's been 2 years since I've done this race.
Quite a few MJ's turned out for this, including Jon Newey, Emma Gooderham, Steve Roode, Rachel Samuel as well as, I'm sorry to say, a fella who I recognised but don't know his name. Sorry if I've missed anyone else.
The course wasn't as muddy as I thought it would be given the weather conditions recently but the hills were still there which I always find tough.
I finished in 1:56:14, 4 minutes faster than 2 years ago, with Steve hot on my heels at the finish, Emma finished in 1:33 and Rachel in just over 2 hours. " Unknown fella" was in between Steve and Rachel and I don't know Jon's time but he was probably very quick!!
Now for the good news. Emma was 1st lady, I won the Vet 45 prize and Emma, myself and Rachel won the ladies team prize. Also I was given a silver medal from the 10k cross country County Championship event at the Stourbridge Stumble a few weeks ago. Not a bad days running!! Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Wyre Forest Half Marathon 8/7/07 by Jon Newey
'A few Joggers turned out for the Wyre Forest Half this morning. Me, Steve (plus US visitor), Rachel, Julie and Emma. Great course with lots of up and down and over half on good good surface with just a few miles of narrow muddy tracks, which were surprisingly not too bad considering the rain.
Not sure how everyone got on, but Emma was first female home, about 10 or more mins ahead of the next lady. She did a 1.33.
I had a terrible day. Started off OK with the leaders, but slowed really badly with about 4 miles left and eventually came in 6th or 7th place with a 1.29. '
Thanks, Jon

Freckleton Half Marathon 17/6 by Julie Caseley
' I've been toying with the idea of running this race for a couple of years now as, for 10 years, we use to live just a mile from Freckleton. In those days I wasn't into running and didn't even know the Freckleton Half Marathon existed!!
Anyway, it was an early start to get to Freckleton which is in Lancashire between Preston and Blackpool for a 2 pm start. It's the oldest half marathon in the UK (43rd for men and 31st for ladies) over an undulating course. The "undulations" took the form of a few "lumps" on the course, because that's as undulating as it gets on the Fylde coast!! We took several changes of clothing, not knowing what the weather would be like up there, but in the end it was glorious sunshine and very warm.
It was a super race with friendly marshals, lovely support and extremely well organised with 5 drinks stations, sponges and showers on the route. We were also given a booklet with a comprehensive list of past prize winners and the course record of 64:45 has been held by Ron Hill since 1969. He was running the half marathon this year and my claim to fame is that I've beaten the lengendary Dr. Ron Hill by about 2 minutes!!
My race went very well and I thought I was on for a PB having completed the first half in 52 minutes and 10 miles in 1 hr 21 mins but I didn't quite manage to keep the pace up for the last 3 miles even though this part of the course was pancake flat - ah well, it was a hot day!! I eventually finished in a time of 1:49:27, 1 min 1 sec outside my PB. Samantha also had a good run finishing in a time of 1:53:34.
The presentation was at 4.30 pm which took a while as there was a table full of silverware to be handed out. Also this was the Lancashire Half Marathon County Championship event which meant there were lots of medals too. I was quite excited when I sent my entry off as, being born in Stretford, I've always thought of myself as a Lancastrian but they seem to have moved things around a little and Stretford is no longer in the current county of Lancashire but in Greater Manchester which apparently isn't in Lancashire!!
Don't know whether I'll to this again as it was a bit of a long day but very enjoyable nonetheless. Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Hereford Leisure Centre 10mile Sunday 17th June by Steve Roode
' Thought I would get some road miles in for the upcoming Malvern half. It started from the Hereford leisure centre and was pleased to see fellow Joggers Richard Walsh and Rachel Samuel at the start line along with Matt Scriven, fellow hasher. Not a bad race quite undulating in places with a pretty flat finish. Ran round till about the 8 mile marker with Rachel who was going really well, she nearly got away from me at one stage and I had to dig deep to stay with her. Nice day some quiet back roads before coming back into Hereford a bit of a sting in the tail was the lap and half round the running track to finish. Richard came in at 1:04:00, I came in at around 1:23 and Rachel came in 6th lady at 1:25:03. '
Thanks, Steve

Darren’s Dash Saturday 23rd June by Steve Roode
' I saw this one advertised earlier in the year and it sounded like it could be fun!! It started from the village of Longtown on the Abergavenny road out of Hereford, very scenic on the Welsh border of the Brecon Beacons National Park. On arriving found I wasn’t the only Jogger there Carl Antony and Richard Walsh were there. There were mini buses to the start of the 7.5km course which was half way up a mountain, the start was straight upwards a 900ft ascent, a nice little walk up – well everyone else was walking. Got to the top and what a view, it was nice to see the Malvern’s from a different angle. A nice run along the Offa’s Dyke trail followed with a swift decent to the Olchon valley down hill most of the way – great running!! A lap of a small field to finish don’t know what the times were for us Joggers but the Tea and homemade cakes were free. A nice little run and really friendly recommend it for next year. '
Thanks again, Steve

Whitehorse 5k-21/6/07 by Richard Walsh
' Me and nick hitchings both went over to give this one a bash. dave edwards kindly came over to support. both of us opted for the tactic of start fast, hold on. nicks race consisted of going through the first mile around 5.45 and averaging 6.20 for the next two to end up on 18.49. place wise probly around 60-70th. the standard was pretty high with a kenyan from belgrave storming in on 14.27. as far as my race went, the faster runners dragged me along, going through mile one in 5.06, two in 5.24, by which point i wanted to stop mentally! but held on for a finishing time of 16.59 for 20th place. still a bit off pb on this distance (16.30) but best time on it for a good 18 months. '
Thanks, Richard

darrens dash-23/6/07 by Richard Walsh
' luckily i wasnt really aware how painful this was going to be so went into it fairly relaxed unaware of the torment ahead. qualifies as a fell race which you could quickly see from the first 15 mins all being straight up a steep zig zag with a 300m climb. even the leaders walked sections, and i certainly resolved to a lot of walking on the way up. due to heart rate being so high it was difficult to gain a rhythm when at the top. however, due to descending like a nutter on the downhill, fearless of falling and getting injured (which seemed the case of most around me!) i gained a few places in the latter parts, finishing 9th for 37.45. carl and steve also ran this for a respectable time and position. '
Thanks again, Richard

Malvern Midsummer Marathon - 23 June 2007 by Julie Caseley
' On Saturday, 23 June, Amanda Greenwood, Samantha and myself set off cautiously from the Wyche Primary School at 8 am on the 25 mile Long Distance Walkers Association Malvern Midsummer Marathon. We decided to take it steady as the first checkpoint was at the top of the Worcestershire Beacon and the second at the top of North Hill. Needless to say, we still managed a bit of a jog and overtook a few of the walkers. We then got the instructions and map to hand in order to find our way through various farms, woods, over stiles and through kissing gates to Cradley and Checkpoint 3 at 5 miles. (The Jaffa cakes were most welcome).
After leaving Cradley, Checkpoint 4 was at 12.5 miles at Ledbury. This was another undulating stretch involving a climb to the top of Oyster Hill and through Frith Wood. Here we sampled lovely bread pudding, more home bakes and jelly! We stocked up again on drinks and anything else we needed from the back of our “support vehicle”, ably driven and navigated by Paul. He did his own thing in between checkpoints, like go to the library, have the mandatory bacon sandwich, etc. but there was a bit of waiting around at some checkpoints until we could make a fairly reasonable estimate as to how fast we were going, then he could time his arrival at checkpoints more accurately.
We left Ledbury and headed for Chase End and Checkpoint 5 at 18.7 miles. We missed a sign for Chase End on the main road but used our initiative (and the map) and rejoined the route and other runners not far away.
After the Chase End checkpoint, we continued uphill to the trig point, down a steep slope before ascending again to Checkpoint 6 (Ragged Stone Outlier) at 19.75 miles. This post was unmanned so we had to authorise our own card.
Checkpoint 8 was less than a mile away but it was up a grassy hillside which went on forever to reach the summit shelter of Midsummer Hill (Checkpoint 7 was on the 35 mile route). We stopped only as long as it took us to have a segment of orange and admire the view before we were off again. We had a very long, hazardous descent through the woods and over loose stones. I think it was at this point a tearful Samantha wanted to go home and swore she’d never do it again – she still hasn’t
changed her mind!!
The description at the bottom of the descent was a little confusing (or else we made a mistake) so out came not only the map again but also the compass I had tucked away just in case someone happened to know how to use it!!
Anyway, we knew we had to head north to the top of British Camp and eventually caught up with ourselves on the route description at Gullet Quarry. From here involved a lot of upping and downing before we eventually got to Checkpoint 9 at British Camp car park at 23 miles. Local knowledge came in handy for the relatively short run/walk/crawl along the ridge back to the Wyche School. Having said that, we did go over 3 of the 4 hills back to the Wyche cutting and the stagger back down the Old Wyche Road seemed longer and steeper than ever and played havoc with the legs! The route was actually 27 miles which took us 7 hours 20 minutes and we have a newly designed badge and certificate to prove it!
Many thanks to Amanda for keeping us company - | wouldn’t have had the confidence to do it without her. We’re even talking about our next adventure, The Cotswold Marathon Challenge in September, if anyone’s up for it. Regards, Julie '
Thanks, Julie

Aldridge 10K, 10/6/07 by Julie Caseley
' The weather was ideal for the running of this lovely undulating 10k at Aldridge. The start was on the village green by the Church and the course followed a mostly left handed circuit. There was a rather nice long, sweeping downhill just after half way followed by the inevitable uphill finish, although it didn't seem quite as steep as last year and I managed to pass quite a few runners. The course finished on the cricket pitch where all participants received an engraved wine glass.
I finished in a time of 48 mins 9 secs, 6 minutes faster than last year and was only 18 seconds outside my PB. The beauty of this race is that, not only do the 1st, 2nd and 3rd males and females receive vouchers and a trophy, but 1st and 2nd men and women in all veteran categories receive an engraved silver salver. I came 2nd in my age category so have another lovely trophy to add to the collection!!
Well organised, friendly race. '
Thanks, Julie

Ravenstones Brow Fell Race 10/6/07 by Jon Newey
' After a post-marathon rest and time away eating pasta, pizza and gelato in Italy it was time to think of serious running again. Went up to Yorkshire and took in the Ravenstones Brow Fell Race on Saddleworth Moor near Manchester.
On paper it looked a bit tame as fell races go. 10 miles and 1300 ft. of ascent probably makes it on a par with the beacon race as ascent per mile goes. Signed up paid my fee and collected the compulsory map. Being a fell race the normal kit was required (map, compass, wistle, emergency food, extra body cover) despite the fact that it was very hot and humid. The race only attracted 50-60 this year for some reason, half the usual turn-out. Set off and climbed immediately and very steeply.
Fortunately this was short lived and we hit a flatish section through shady woods before contuinuing along the shores of Dovestones resevoir. By this point i was in third spot. Suddenly the way was blocked by a marshall who pointed up a steep hill. We did most of the 1300ft climbing here. The heat really got to me and progress was slow, such that I was caught by Jo Waites and Sally Newman, two well known and accomplished fell racers.
At the top we hit a cliff. Sheer drop on left and open moor to the right. Traversed along to the next marshall who pointed us onto the moors (Featherbed Moss). Here you needed to run in a straight line with no landmarks to navigate by. I hadn't bothered taking a compass bearing and winged it. Had it been foggy this would certainly have been sheer folly. I was on my own, the leaders being out of sight. Managed to distance the women here, so male pride was intact! Although it was flat
on the map, you were constantly droipping into gullys and climbing out again making it very tough going. Fortunately the visibility was good
and after 15 mins or so I could see the reservoir in the distance which marked the next check point.
Sharp left and a 1200ft descent back to Dovestones resevoir and the flatish run into the finish, by which time I was really done for. I came in 4 mins down on the winner with 1 hour 17 mins. and got a very nice M&S pasta bowl with tea towel, round of Wensleydale and jar of jam for my efforts! '
Thanks, Jon

Stourbridge Stumble, 16/6/07 by Julie Caseley
' The Stourbridge Stumble is a lovely undulating cross country 10k event starting and finishing at Mary Stevens Park. The route follows an out and back course to the south west of Stourbridge and comprises part of the course for the Stourbridge Stagger. It starts at 6 pm so ideal if it's been hot during the day. The weather was ideal today - dry and humid although there were a few water obsticles and a bit of mud to contend with. Quite a tough run but very enjoyable..
I finished in a time of 51:33, just over 5 minutes faster than last year. Samantha enjoyed the 4k fun run which took place in the confines of the park. She came 2nd in a time of 16:10.
The Stumble incorporated the Worcestershire Multi terrain Championships but unfortunately there was a problem with the computer and these results could not be accessed - notification of winners will be sent out at a later date. '
Thanks, Julie

Hereford 5K, 7/6/07 by Richard Walsh
' Having done the first two races in this series i was hopeful of making an improvement on my first two times(17.39&17.46.) Nick Hitchins had also run the first couple of races in (18.55&19.01) but could not make this last one. Am glad to say i did improve timewise, cutting down to 17.15 for 12th place. It was a competitive field so came lower than last time despite running faster! The first two runners came in sub 15 mins which shows how good some of the standard was. Started fast and hung on in the second half, sadly dropping about 4 places in the last 2k but still happy with performance and picking up a prize for 6th overall man in the series. Rich '
Thanks, Richard