Christmas Cross-Country Stopsley 16th Dec.

A good gathering of Northampton Road Runners gave up shopping, baking, decorating and other such chores and headed for Luton sporting a variety of running kit and headwear not usually seen at races.

We were missing a few of our stars which meant everyone had to step up and it was good to see club stalwarts Mary, Elaine and Dave W back near the top of the score sheet .

After good runs it was then time to face the mountain climb back to race HQ for mince pies.

Planning for next years targets then took place at a pub stop on the way home before settling down for Sports Personality.

For the ladies, Penny Andrews was first home in 18th sporting a full on santa outfit. Beckie Hollowell was next and also donned a festive hat followed by Mary Sullivan, also in her hat. The other ladies in the team were Elaine Palmer, Jo Cummings and Sally Garrett.

Chris Lamb led home the men with a 4th place finish overall and Tony Letts was close behind in 25th. Mark Kennedy enjoyed a good run and Mark Garrett after stopping to help a runner who had taken a tumble on the course. John Fleming was three places behind completing a clutch of claret and gold shirts.

Pete Moor, Dave Whatton and Dave Blackburn completed the scorers. Darren Baldwin recovered from a late party and finished just ahead of Tom Sullivan who always targets a top 200 finish.

Jon Panter, Jim Anderson, Jon Dilworth, Paul Braddock and Jags Rattu completed the line up.

Ladies  
18th Penny Andrews
49th Beckie Hollowell
89th Mary Sullivan
94th Elaine Palmer
98th Jo Cummings
134th Sally Garrett
Men
4th Chris Lamb
25th Tony Letts
111th Mark Kennedy
112th Mark Garrett
115th John Fleming
142nd Pete Moor
167th Dave Whatton
189th Dave Blackburn
190th Darren Baldwin
195th Tom Sullivan
198th Jon Panter
223rd Jim Anderson
230th Jon Dilworth
231st Paul Braddock
255th Jags Rattu

Next race is not until 3rd Feb 2013.

This is at Delapre Abbey so let’s see lots of claret and gold.

Parkrun 33

Here are the results from Parkrun 33 on 15th December.  A huge number of the participants headed to the Picturedrome afterwards for the Parkrun Xmas Breakfast.

17 Peter MOOR 20:20
22 Mark KENNEDY 20:50
48 Martin ANDREWS 23:18
65 Mick CLARKE 25:36
87 Darren BALDWIN 28:48
129 Tony KENNEDY 35:56

Bedford Half Marathon

On a day when the conditions were pretty much perfect for running, with the exception of a brisk wind nine people took on the undulating Bedford Half Marathon.

Jim McGowan led the NRR runners home completing his first half marathon in an impressive time of 1:33:26. Jim was chased home by a slightly hung-over Mark Garrett having danced the night away at the club’s Christmas bash in a time of 1:34:50. Martin Andrews who attempted to chase Mark down for 3 miles shaved a few seconds of his PB finishing in a time of 1:35:23. Adrian Tuck who has hit a patch of running form crossed the line in a time of 1:39:43 knocking almost 6 minutes of his half PB since March.

Roger Taylor completed the course in a personal record time of 1:41:33. Mick Clarke tamed the hills of Bedford finishing in a time of 1:56:17. Jim Anderson who has struggled with injury all year and organised a successful Christmas party (sneaking away early) finished in a time of 1:57:11. Jo Lee started the race with an injured knee and finished the race with a significant limp valiantly battled on to complete the course in a time of 2:02:03.  Jackie Dalton made her NRR racing debut with a pleasing 2.03.12 and Inge Flowers completed the line up in a time of 2:04:34.

Jim McGowan 1:33: 26 – First Half
Mark Garrett 1:34:50
Martin Andrews 1:35:23 – PB
Adrian Tuck 1:39:43 – 6 minute PB
Roger Taylor 1:41:33 – PB
Mick Clarke 1:56:17
Jim Anderson 1:57:11
Jo Lee 2:02:03

Jackie Dalton 2.03.12

Inge Flowers 2:04:34

 

 

Thanks to Martin A for a great report.

Parkrun 32

Three in the top ten at the latest Parkrun.  Well done also to Glen for a PB.

6 Gary MCDANIELS 19:41
7 Peter MOOR 20:04
9 Mark KENNEDY 20:35
31 Paul BRADDOCK 23:42
38 Glen COUSNER 24:33
40 Mick CLARKE 25:19
93 Claire SPOKES 33:08

Nene Valley Harriers 10

A short hop across the county border to Peterborough on 2nd December.  Well done to Rosanna, first lady again.

62 Rosanna Andrews 1:05:01
117 Penny Andrews 1:10:48
202 Jon Dilworth 1:22:29

Parkrun 31 - 1st December

4 Sam BROWN 18:35
16 Peter MOOR 20:06
17 Mark GARRETT 20:16
29 Mark KENNEDY 21:21
58 Martin ANDREWS 23:14
77 Paul BRADDOCK 24:18
105 Mary SULLIVAN 27:08

Jocelyn Is No Clowne

Jocelyn Granger did the Clowne Half in Derbyshire on Sunday 25th November in 1.51.  A great time battling difficult strong headwinds and rough weather.

X-C Guilsborough-on-Sea Sunday 25th Nov.

Would the fact that most of Northants was under water stop our Cross-Country fix? Of course not!

Would anyone turn up? Of course they would, in fact we had 28 runners and a good number of volunteers who came and helped Team East Haddon marshal the event and help pull runners out of the mud.

This course is on the Pytchley Hunt point- to-point course and the going was officially heavy and unofficially boggy.

This year’s cross-country must be the wettest and muddiest ever and yet the races are more popular than ever before with record entries.

We baptised another four newcomers to the joys of cross-country and all agreed that they had never had so much fun in a muddy field. The runners in the middle of the pack had to avoid a sheep stampede at the midway point of the race.

The Ladies Team came 7th on day, a fantastic result overall. 10th Rosanna Andrews finally made her cross country debut and finished 10th overall lady. Mum Penny Andrews was 25th and Charlotte Yarker completed the scorers.

Paula Pinney and Katherine White also ran their first ever cross country events and have promised to come back for more. Suzanne Baldwin somehow managed to keep her kit completely clean.

Ladies Results
10th Rosanna Andrews 1st XC
25 Penny Andrews
50 Charlotte Yarker
51 Becky Hollowell
57 Jo Lee
75 Suzanne Baldwin
80 Jo Smith
118 Paula Pinney 1st XC
125 Helen Blackburn
139 Katherine White 1st XC
143 Sally Garrett

The Men’s Team finished 9th on day and Chris Lamb cemented his place as league leader after three events with a second place finish. In 25th was Tony Letts (home advantage well used) and Stu Drummond enjoyed a good race. Mark Nightingale was 64th and Jim McGowan 104th, the day after an impressive Parkrun. John Fleming was flying after arriving minutes before the start of the race. Mark Garrett was the final scorer.

Glen Cousner made his debut for the men and has also vowed to return for more.

Men’s Results
2nd Chris Lamb (league leader after 3 events)
25 Tony Letts
62 Stu Drummond
64 Mark Nightingale
104 Jim McGowan  
110 John Fleming
113 Mark Garrett
128 Mark Kennedy
137 Darren Baldwin
140 Martin Andrews
143 Pete Moor
186 Jon Panter
219 Dave Blackburn
224 Jon Dilworth
247 Paul Braddock
259 Glen Cousner 1st XC
268 Tony Kennedy

Our Combined Team Result was 8th (of 14) our best this season.

Next event is on Sun Dec 16th at Stopsley. (Nr. Luton).Details are on website.

We will be taking the minibus and plan on stopping for a drink on the way home. 

Benidorm Half

Whilst England was braving the early winter floods, an NRR trio decided to go elsewhere for some lovely weather and exotic surroundings and have a go at the Benidorm Half.

Mick Clarke  and Dave Soloman are regulars at this wonderful British Seaside Resort and Jim Anderson made his debut on this course (after recovering his passport and bank card from the lost and found drawer).

There will be plenty of stories to tell but the lads racked up pretty good times.

Mick Clarke 1:55:00
Jim Anderson 1:56:54
Dave Soloman

Wolverton Five

Saturday races are rare so the Parkrun is always welcome but aside from the local weekly event, two NRR members took part in the Annual Wolverton 5 mile on 24th November.

Caroline Powell was the 3rd FV35 in 38:02 and Colin Bricher completed his first event in 11 months in 45:35 and was 3rd MV60.

Caroline Powell 38:02 3rd FV35
Colin Bricher 45:35 3rd MV60

Parkrun 30

Five NRR runners completed the 30th Parkrun on Saturday 24th November.

7 James MCGOWAN 19:36
10 Peter MOOR 20:16
24 Mark KENNEDY 21:24
30 Martin ANDREWS 21:57
46 Jo LEE 24:11

Parkrun - Northampton and Wycombe

The "fab four" completed the Northampton Parkrun on Saturday 17th November.

13 Peter MOOR 20:30
15 Mark KENNEDY 20:57
50 Tom SULLIVAN 23:48
76 Mary SULLIVAN 26:03

Mick Clarke went further afield and ran the Wycombe Rye parkrun,  in 25:56

37 Mick CLARKE 00:25:56

Cross Country - A Day To Remember - Wing 11/11/12

A beautiful sunny remembrance day morning greeted 28 Northampton Road Runners at the beautiful Wing Cross Country.  The club have fond memories of the course which has seen leaders chased by cows and one of the wettest races ever.  Today, however, the weather was kind to the 450 who observed a minutes silence before the roar as the cavalry charge.

We all got muddy and wet on a proper cross-country course of hills, water, mud, and slime.

Penny Andrews turned up sporting a golden holiday tan and by the end she was the same colour as the rest of us, dirty brown.  Becky Hollowell enjoyed a great race and Jocelyn Granger completed the ladies scorers.

Our seasoned line up of Jo Smith, Suzanne Baldwin, Mary Sullivan, Jo Cummings, Helen Blackburn, Keren Irving and Sally Garrett all did themselves and NRR proud, returning mud-splattered and smiling at the finish.
The men were bolstered by the return of Mark Nightingale and Tony Letts with Sam Brown making his club debut having a great race. Martin Andrews showed off by running the day after the Seagrave Wolds 15 miler.  Paul Braddock also made his debut at cross-country in a very smart pair of trainers that will never look the same again.

Chris Lamb continued his great form from Wellingborough finishing 9th overall. Stuart Drummond, Mark Garrett and John Fleming had great runs to complete the scorers.  Darren Baldwin, just outside the scoring zone, blasted his way round the scourse with a strong finish.  Jon Dilworth continued his love affair with the mud and can't wait to return at East Haddon in two weeks.

Northampton Road Runners may not win on the results sheet but everyone who runs is a winner and what better way can there be to spend a Sunday morning.

Next race is Guilsborough on 25th Nov. Nice and local.

Full results are on website www.threecountiesxc.co.uk

Ladies
31st Penny Andrews
55 Becky Hollowell
60 Jocelyn Granger
91 Jo Smith
97 Suzanne Baldwin
106 Mary Sullivan
138 Jo Cummings
142 Helen Blackburn
149 Keren Irving
165 Sally Garrett

Men
9th Chris Lamb
25 Tony Letts
74 Mark Nightingale
76 Stuart Drummond
81 Sam Brown
125 Mark Garrett
137 John Fleming
163 Darren Baldwin
170 Mark Kennedy
171 Jim McGowan
200 Martin Andrews
219 Jon Panter
220 Tom Sullivan
242 Dave Blackburn
255 Jon Dilworth
269 Paul Braddock
281 Jags Rattu
288 Alan Hackett

Seagrave Wolds

The Seagrave Wolds is a great event which actually takes place around 100 miles from the seaside.  One thing you are guaranteed is lots of mud, lots of hills and a challenge whilst being greeted by a friendly welcome from the locals.  The race is a huge part of a small community and lovingly funds a range of local projects in this Leicestershire haven.

On Saturday 10th November, three NRR members tamed the mega slog.  Martin Andrews loosened his legs for the following day's cross country and recorded a pleasing 2:32.  Ronnie Ambrose and Wendy Parker conquered the course together in 2:53.

 

Martin Andrews 2:32

Ronnie Ambrose 2:53

Wendy Parker 2:53 

Parkrun 28

The super six completed Parkrun 28 at the Racecourse, a field which also included a handful of NRR marshals too.

6 Radoslav NIC 19:03
13 Peter MOOR 20:32
45 Jo LEE 24:00
49 Tony KENNEDY 24:25
54 Mick BHOGAL 24:48
57 Mick CLARKE 24:56

Rutland In The Rain

Four Northampton Road Runners braved the rain at the beautiful Rutland Water Marathon on Sunday 4th November.  The undulating course takes in some breath-taking sites across the picturesque location and the weather did little to dampen the spirits of the field.

Lynton Dawson was 24th overall with an impressive 3:24:44 finish.  Matt Brand only entered and trained for the event two months before but his fitness came through and he finished in 49th place in a time of 3:45:06.

Jasmine Banks was the star of the day achieving an amazing PB of 4:02:14 having completed only a handful of long runs prior to the event.  Martin Rowe also enjoyed a good run and finished in 4:18:05.

24 Lynton Dawson 3:24:44
49 Matt Brand 3:45:06
103 Jasmine Banks 4:02:14
158 Martin Rowe 4:18:05

Magic Mile 3

1st Danson Njoka 5:08.93
6th Stuart Drummond 6:04.37
14th Pete Moor 6:24.78
15th Martin Andrews 6:25.52

Latest Parkrun

11 Stuart DRUMMOND 19:26
21 Peter MOOR 20:33
33 Martin ANDREWS 22:08
56 Mick CLARKE 24:57
57 Tony KENNEDY 24:58
79 Mick BHOGAL 26:16
83 Paula PINNEY 26:55

Colin's 50th

Colin recently chalked up 50 years as a runner and has seen many changes in his time.  He celebrated his 50 years at the club night last Wednesday with a fantastic Sue the Cake cake.

 

Colin actually started running properly in April 1962 although he did run round the school playground in the 50s.  He had to defer his celebration as he suffered a heart attack just after Christmas and has not been allowed to start running again. Colin has now re-established himself and even done a race, so it is also 50 years racing. Colin got a prize as oldest finisher which was a nice come-back present.

 

 

Colin's Horror

Colin Bricher ran the scary Halloween Horror on Saturday 27th October and won a prize for being the oldest finisher out of

 

It spooky event was four miles running in the dark with spooks and ghouls en-route to give you the living frights on the course.  This was Colin's first event for many months after injury.
 

Parkrun 26

A great turnout from NRR on Saturday.  We had six runners and a number of marshals on the course.  Well done to Sally on her Parkrun debut too.

13 Mark GARRETT 21:37 
49 Mick CLARKE 24:29
52 Jo LEE 24:49
58 Mick BHOGAL 25:18
123 Paula PINNEY 34:34
124 Sally GARRETT 35:46

The UK's Toughest Half

Congratulations to Pete Moor for completing the Snowdonia Marathon in 4:24 today.

The Dirty 2 Dozen W’boro X-Country Sun 28th Oct.

The cross country season kicked off at Croyland Park in Wellingborough and organisers W&DAC put on a great show. The course was extended this year to take the distance up to five miles and the field were offered and few more ups and downs. It was a proper cross-country, the mud was very muddy, the hills were very hilly, and the stream was very wet.

Lots of new faces amongst the NRR team, they were initiated into the joys of cross-country running. It was a pity not to have a camera to record just how muddy and dirty we got.

There were many good runs and smiling, mud spattered faces assured me they would be back for more.

For the ladies, Charlotte Yarker, Becky Hollowell and Jocelyn Granger were the scorers. Jo Lee, Jo Smith, Mary Sullivan, Caroline Cope, Keren Irving, Helen Blackburn and Pauline Horne made up the rest of the field. 

Mary somehow managed to return to the finish with the cleanest kit in the club.

The men’s team saw new boy Chris Lamb finish second overall, NRR’s highest ever cross country placing. Keith Jellyman made a great return to scoring and Stuart Drummond made his NRR XC debut. Mark Garrett recovered from a Tom Daley dive in the stream and Mark Kennedy also scored. Martin Andrews and Jim McGowan completed the scoring.
John Fleming enjoyed a good run and Steve Prior took the accolade of being the muddiest on the course. Tom Sullivan and Dave Blackburn were the usual regulars on the XC scene. Jon Panter, Jon Dilworth and Jags Rattu made their XC debuts.

Ladies results
56th Charlotte Yarker     
59 Becky Hollowell
67 Jocelyn Granger
69 Jo Lee
89 Jo Smith
106 Mary Sullivan
125 Caroline Cope
138 Keren Irving
142 Helen Blackburn
150 Pauline Horne

Men
2nd Chris Lamb
55 Keith Jellyman
72 Stuart Drummond
132 Mark Garrett
145 Mark Kennedy
155 Martin Andrews
156 Jim McGowan
159 John Fleming
161 Steve Prior
225 Tom Sullivan
229 Dave Blackburn
247 Jon Panter
268 Jon Dilworth
295 Jags Rattu

Full Daventry 10 Results

Here are the full results for the Daventry 10.  Apologies to anyone who was missed in the first report, the results were not straightforward to find all our club runners.

WE CAME, WE SAW, WE CONQUERED DAVENTRY 10 MILE SUN 21 OCT

17 of us took part in the 1st running of this new event on the local race calendar.

A number of new faces turned out in the maroon and gold and after group hugs and team talks we set about bringing home some bling.

And what a successful day we had especially in the County Champs which was attached to this event.

3rd Danson Njoka 57-25 3rd overall 3rd county champs 2nd men’s team
10 Andy Blaize 1-02-41 2nd men’s team
18 Rosanna Andrews 1-03-50 1st lady 1st lady county champs 1st ladies team
21 Tony Letts 1-04-33 2nd men’s team
37 Jim McGowan 1-07-51 1st race ever!!
42 Mark Garrett 1-09-54
49 Adrian Tuck 1-11-22
50 Penny Andrews 1-11-27 1stFV45 1st ladies team
60 Martin Andrews 1-14-30
63 Roger Taylor 1-14-59 1st race with us
74 Tom Sullivan 1-16-53 1st MV60
95 Becky Hollowell 1-19-42 1st ladies team
97 Jocelyn Granger 1-19-59 3rd FV45
105 Jim Anderson 1-21-52
120 Mick Clarke 1-25-04
121 Jo Smith 1-25 40
132 Jon Dilworth 1-28-45

NRR Take Dav 10 By Storm

Northampton Road Runners took the new Daventry 10 Road Race by storm.  The ladies won the Female Team event and the men came second in the Male Team Event.

On the course, Danson Njoka was 3rd overall breaking the one hour barrier in 57:26.  Andy Blaze was 10th on the course in 1:02:44 and the male team was completed by Tony Letts in 1:04:36.

Mark Garrett enjoyed a great run in 1:10:02 and Martyn Andrews finished in 1:14:35 followed by Tom Sullivan who was 1st MV60 in 1:17:02.  Jim Anderson recorded a 10 mile PB in 1:21:52 and Mick Clarke was close behind in 1:25:10.

For the ladies, Rosanna Andrews finished in 1:03:54 as 1st Lady and her mum Penny Andrews was 1st FV45 in 1:11:31.  Rebecca Hollowell finished in 1:19:42 just ahead of 3rd FV45 Jocelyn Granger in 1:20:03.  A wonderful line up was completed by Jo Smith in 1:25:56 and Mary Sullivan in 1:28:51. 

3 Danson Njoka 57:26
10 Andy Blaze 1:02:44
18 Rosanna Andrews 1:03:54 - 1st Lady
21 Tony Letts 1:04:36
42 Mark Garrett 1:10:02
50 Penny Andrews 1:11:31 1st FV45
60 Martyn Andrews 1:14:35
74 Thomas Sullivan 1:17:02 1st MV60
80 Rebecca Hollowell 1:19:42
97 Jocelyn Granger 1:20:03 3rd FV45
106 Jim Anderson 1:21:52
120 Mick Clarke 1:25:10
121 Jo Smith 1:25:56
132 Mary Sullivan 1:28:51 

Parkrun

Here are the latest Parkrun results which keep Pete Moor at the top of the Northampton points league.

17 Peter MOOR 20:19
24 Mark KENNEDY 21:25
45 Paul BRADDOCK 23:40
57 Mick CLARKE 24:49
70 Darren BALDWIN 26:14
109 Mark GLENN 29:58

Leicester Marathon

Rob Donovan completed the Leicester Marathon in 4:12, well done Rob.

Mud and Mayhem For Pete

Peter Moor finished 9th in the Mud & Mayhem 10K at Delapre in an impressive time of 45:19.  This was Pete's second race of the weekend after completing the Parkrun the day before.

9th Peter Moor 45:19

The Ridgeway

The Ridgeway is a favourite of Northampton Road Runners.  Of course, road runners by name and off road runners who love nature!

The Ridgeway route is a 15.5K (ish) route that starts with a lovely flat mile before climbing to the top of the Ridgeway for some breathtaking views over the countryside.  After a few more challenging climbs, runners are rewarded with a roller coaster decent through the forest and back to sea level (although the sea is miles away of course).

Mark GARRETT was the first NRR home in 1:12:52 and Alan Burgess, back from France, finished in 1:17:57.  Darren BALDWIN enjoyed a great run in 1:19:44.  Jim Anderson knocked three minutes off last year's time with 1:27:01 and Jo LEE was close behind in 1:27:53.  Jo SMITH completed her favourite event in 1:30:50 just ahead of Suzanne BALDWIN in 1:31:16 and Mick CLARKE 1:35:43.


86 Mark GARRETT 1:12:52
Monsieur Alan Burgess 1:17:57
190 Darren BALDWIN 1:19:44
311 Jim Anderson 1:27:01
325 Jo LEE 1:27:53
379 Jo SMITH 1:30:50
383 Suzanne BALDWIN 1:31:16
442 Mick CLARKE 1:35:43

Perkins Half In Posh Land

As a Cobblers fan writing this report, it is hard to be nice about P*terborough!  Only kidding, Peterborough puts on a great half marathon event and the streets were lined to cheer on a packed field as the Great Eastern Run has now grown to capacity.

From Northampton Road Runners, Andy Blaize was first to finish in 1:23:47 and Rosanna Andrews enjoyed another storming run with a PB of 1:25:02, finishing 157th overall.  Mark Nightingale was close behind in 1:28:11 and Penny Andrews, who is also flying at the moment, crossed the line in 1:35:34.

Charlotte Yarker managed to shake off a recently cold to smasher her PB in 1:43:16.  New member Glen Cousner completed his first half marathon (sporting a Cobblers shirt) in 2:14:04.  Pauline Horne recorded a great time of 2:18:06 and Jagjevan Rattu came home in  2:22:09.

145 Andy Blaize 1:23:47
157 Rosanna Andrews 1:25:02 PB
243 Mark Nightingale 1:28:11
480 Penny Andrews 1:35:34
843 Charlotte Yarker 1:43:16 PB
2669 Glen Cousner 2:14:04
2800 Pauline Horne 2:18:06
2941 Jagjevan Rattu 2:22:09

Seven Park Runners completed the weekly event at the Racecourse on Saturday 13th October.  Well done to Micky Bhogal for making his Parkrun debut.

12 Peter MOOR 20:12
33 Tom SULLIVAN 22:54
36 Rebecca HOLLOWELL 23:12
42 Paul BRADDOCK 23:52
56 Tony KENNEDY 25:03
61 Mick CLARKE 25:46
97 Mick BHOGAL 29:01

Jocelyn's Marathon

London was just a practice for Jocelyn Granger as she compelted the beautiful but tough Kielder Marathon on Sunday 7th October.  The undulating course barely features a flat bit of track but the accolade of "Britain's most beautiful marathon" is correct.

Jocelyn proudly finished in 4.31.15 and was 9th in her age catagory.

Parkrun 6th October

Prior to the second running of the Northampton Magic Mile, the Parkrun took place as normal.  Six NRR members completed the course before Mark and Stuart punished themselves with the mile at 10am.

11 Stuart DRUMMOND 19:28
21 Mark KENNEDY 21:21
34 Steve PRIOR 23:13
42 Jo LEE 23:23
51 Paul BRADDOCK 24:14
61 Mick CLARKE 25:12

The Magic Mile

After this week's Parkrun was the second running of the Racecourse Magic Mile. 

8th Stewart Drummer 5:52.64
13th Mark Kennedy 6:35.62 

Parkrun

A little late but here are the Parkrun results from last week;

13 Stuart DRUMMOND 19:41
15 Peter MOOR 20:08
22 Martin ANDREWS 21:08
26 Mark KENNEDY 21:26
39 Tom SULLIVAN 22:37
50 Steve PRIOR 23:24
70 Paul BRADDOCK 25:04
72 Mick CLARKE 25:15
82 Mary SULLIVAN 25:33

Parkrun - A Record Number Of Runners

A record number of 172 participants completed the ever growing Parkrun on 22nd September, a popular event attended and run by NRR. 

Matt BRAND finished 19th overall in a fantastic 19:44 and Peter MOOR was just outside his twenty minute barrier target by one second, 20:01 is still a great time though.

Mark KENNEDY is still taking it easy (ahem) with 21:20, that is too quick when resting.  Martin ANDREWS chalked up a great 21:52 and Jim ANDERSON scored a PB 24:06, I bet he'll be telling you all.  Mick CLARKE crossed the line in 25:44 and Mary SULLIVAN was close behind in 26:19.  Simone SMITH completed a great line up in 33:31.


9 Matt BRAND 19:44
21 Peter MOOR 20:01
32 Mark KENNEDY 21:20
39 Martin ANDREWS 21:52
75 Jim ANDERSON 24:06
94 Mick CLARKE 25:44
104 Mary SULLIVAN 26:19
156 Simone SMITH 33:31

Great North Run

Further away at the Great North Run amongst the 40,000 runners were six of our own Northampton Road Runners stars
Matt Brand managed to fight his way through the crowds to arrive at South Shields in 1:36:47.  Jim Anderson scared off Mo Farah to storm home in 1:54:42.  Des McGrath was only a minute behind in 1:55:42.  Wayne Evans 2:20:36 and Kirsty Turner 2:23:52 made their Great North Debuts, this was also Kirty's first ever half marathon.

GNR regulars sporting Tigger costumes enjoyed the day, Patrick Spike Breydin finished in 2:51:55 and Alan Hackett in 3:22:15 whilst raising money for charity again.

Great North Run 16th Sept.
Matt Brand 1:36:47
Jim Anderson 1:54:42
Des McGrath 1:55:42
Wayne Evans 2:20:36
Kirsty Turner 2:23:52
Patrick Spike Breydin 2:51:55
Alan Hackett 3:22:15
 

Cransley Champions

We Are The Champions My Friend!  Northampton Road Runners have enjoyed some great success recently and what a day for the club at the Cransley Hospice Road Races at Cranford, Kettering.

Northampton Road Runners were crowned as 1st team in the half marathon (team of six) with Danson Njoka, Andy Blaize, Rosanna Andrews , Tony Letts, Mark Garrett and Penny Andrews securing the trophy.

This was then perhaps topped by us also winning the Northants County Championships ½ Marathon Mens Team Prize due to the efforts of Danson Njoka, Tony Letts and Mark Garrett.

Our usual good turnout at this local event saw some produce fine runs and others blow off cobwebs on a tough undulating course.
Danson Njoka completed his first ever half marathon in 1:20:21 finishing in 4th place overall.  Andy Blaize was 10th in a time of 1:24:56 and Rosanna Andrews was one place behind in 1:25:24 securing 1st lady in the County Champs.
Tony Letts made 12th place in 1:25:29 and Mark Garrett enjoyed a 1:33:59 finish and Penny Andrews was 3rd lady overall in 1:36:19.

Martin Andrews was next to cross the line in 1:41:48 and John Fleming finished in1:42:11.  Tom Sullivan is a regular at the Cransley Half and finished in 1:45:22 with Mick Clarke another regular in 1:58:26.

Helen Blackburn knocked four minutes off last year's time with 2:20:33 and Keren Irving grabbed a PB of 2:27:02 PB

The 10k featured a team of five with Mark Nightingale on his debut here producing a fine 10th placing.

10k
Mark Nightingale 40:14
Tony Kennedy 48:59
Mary Sullivan 53:41
Pauline Horne 60:40
Sally Garrett 74:57

Half Marathon
4th Danson Njoka 1:20:21 1st half marathon10 Andy Blaize 1:24:56
11 Rosanna Andrews 1:25:24 1st lady, County Champs
12 Tony Letts 1:25:29

39 Penny Andrews 1:36:19 3rd lady59 Martin Andrews 1:41:48
62 John Fleming 1:42:11
75 Tom Sullivan 1:45:22
129 Mick Clarke 1:58:26
174 Helen Blackburn 2:20:33
177 Keren Irving 2:27:02  PB

Parkrun 15th September

Parkrun hosted its 20th event in perfect condition on Saturday 15th September with 147 participants arriving at Northampton Racecourse. 

It's good to have Radoslav NIC back at the club and he is returning to his previous form finishing 6th overall in 18:12.  Richard FRANKS is also edging his way back to fitness crossing the line in 21:42.  Mark KENNEDY crossed the line in 22:08 and Tony KENNEDY was next in 24:02.  Jo LEE, one of the run's organisers, enjoyed an outing on the course in 24:17.
Results
 6 Radoslav NIC 18:12
29 Richard FRANKS 21:42
33 Mark Alan KENNEDY 22:08
49 Tony KENNEDY 24:02
52 Jo LEE 24:17

Pete's Parkrun Success

If at first you don't succeed then try and try again!  Peter MOOR's hard work and determination finally paid off at the Parkrun on 8th September when he achieved his goal of breaking the 20 minute barrier finishing in6th place with a PB of 19:46.

Richard FRANKS was next for the club in 22:01 ahead of Martin ANDREWS in 22:46 and  Mark KENNEDY who returned from injury in 22:53.  Paul BRADDOCK crossed the line in 24:19 and Jim ANDERSON was pleased with a 25:01 finish.  Mick CLARKE enjoyed a steady race with a 25:54 finish and young Morgan BRAND sprint finished to beat her dad Matt, a rousing cheer greeted her at the line.

 6 Peter MOOR 19:46
26 Richard FRANKS 22:01
31 Martin ANDREWS 22:46
33 Mark Alan KENNEDY 22:53
49 Paul BRADDOCK 24:19
58 James ANDERSON 25:01
68 Mick CLARKE 25:54
147 Morgan BRAND 42:10
148 Matt BRAND 42:11

Parkrun

Parkrun results from last Saturday...
5 Stuart DRUMMOND 19:39
37 Paul BRADDOCK 24:47
47 Mark GARRETT 25:29
50 Suzanne BALDWIN 25:37
52 Darren BALDWIN 25:44
55 Mick CLARKE 25:58
63 Emily RINGROSE 26:46
69 Paula PINNEY 27:44

Race Photo Link

http://www.flickr.com/groups/2012moulton10k/pool

Race Comments

Here are some lovely comments on Runners World website.

The thing that sticks out most was the quantity of marshals at the event, all of them very encouraging and friendly, fair do's to them for giving up their time. Nice Event.

Undulating, scenic, very friendly, two drinks stations, a lovely vest and a piece of cake for all finishers - very good value!

Lovely run. Great support from the Marshalls. Challenging course with more hills in the second half. Nice finish on the field. Lovely flapjack, but not so sure about the vest. Does anyone wear cotton vests any more?

I have to really commend the marshals at this race as they were all really encouraging, on the ball and friendly.  Race was excellent value for money, nice to get a finishers vest instead of tshirt or medal and banana bread was awesome :)

http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/events/ratingsall.asp?en=69646&year=2012&ugn=5632&sp=&v=2

Email Also

I just wanted to say a BIG thank-you for giving us all such a lovely 10K! This was my first Moulton run and I found the whole experience a very pleasant one: A lovely, scenic and undulating course, very friendly marshals, two drinks stations and a lovely vest - what more could one ask for? Well done!

Very sadly, I hadn't quite recovered from last Sunday's Riverside Runners 25th Anniversary 10K, which meant that I hadn't been able to run my 'usual' 10K time, so I had to settle for 2nd LV55. Maybe, next time!!

Parkrun

The day before the Moulton 10K seven NRR runners turned out for the latest Parkrun.  Here are the results.

 5 Andy BLAIZE 18:47
15 Peter MOOR 20:43
30 Tom SULLIVAN 23:00
49 Tony KENNEDY 25:12
66 Mick CLARKE 27:12
73 Mary KINGSNORTH 28:12
82 Pauline HORNE 29:54

Parkrun

Danson NJOKA finished second at the latest Parkrun in a fantastic time of 16:33.  Matt BRAND is returning to his great form with a finish of 19:53, seventh place overall and Peter MOOR was 12th in 20:24.

Charlotte YARKER crossed the line in 22:35 and Jo LEE managed a break from her organisational duties to run the route in 24:20.  Tony KENNEDY was pleased with a 25:26 finish and Mick CLARKE and Richard ROSE finished in 26:47 and 28:47.

2 Danson NJOKA 16:33
7 Matt BRAND 19:53
12 Peter MOOR 20:24
32 Charlotte YARKER 22:35
46 Jo LEE 24:20
51 Tony KENNEDY 25:26
71 Mick CLARKE 26:47
84 Richard ROSE 28:47

Cranham Beast Trail Running Weekend

Jasmine and Martin Rowe completed the Cranham Beast Trail Running Weekend on Sunday 12th August.  An awesome event in the sleepy Cotswolds village of Cranham, 5 miles south east of Gloucester. Three races 5 miler on the Saturday a 7 and a 14 mile on the Sunday split by a venison feast on the Saturday evening

Arrived Saturday lunch time run the Cranham 5 mile in the afternoon after pitching the tent at the scout centre. We took the short walk up the hill to the registration tent, only to find they didn’t have our registrations, but no problems they accepted our story that we had posted our registration, what nice people. The race started with a small field of runners, can’t remember any flat sections we were flying down the slopes, struggling up the steep hills, over narrow wood bridges the last hill just before the end was lined with children armed with water guns aimed at the runners, good fun. This was followed by the feast more a village fate than a feast, but we found a smashing little pub serving good grub and good beer.

Sunday was the big day didn’t start too well experienced Jasmine first thing in the morning should have a health warning on that experience.

Some competitors opted for the Witcombe 7mile lady beast the 1st 7 miles of the daddy beast

Buckholt 14 mile Daddy beast, Awesome 14 miles of fun, mud, up and down hills fast turns narrow tracks nothing flat, through Forrest and rough fields.

 The heavens opened rain flooded down the trails making adrenalin high runs through the forest sometimes very dark with little light coming through the Forrest canopy foot placing was tricky almost imposable to run in a straight line most of the hills steep to the point where power walking was faster that running. It stopped raining the sun came out the views were stunning a tough test, but not a gruelling run because you had to concentrate and plan the next foot placement watch for the direction markers. I failed on both accounts, got lost three times twice in the same field fell off a stile on my bum slipped and fell down in the forest chasing Jasmine, Both of us got covered in mud and totally wet through. 3 hours we were running but to me it did not seem anywhere near that long other than the tiredness and fatigue.

Jasmine had more to smile about at the end of the race she didn’t just finish she achieved:

2nd lady Buckholt 14
2nd lady overall Cranham Beast

A bottle of wine & a box of chocolates in her hand Jasmine did fantastically well

I got two sore nipples (hence the title) but we won’t talk about that
An awesome event and an awesome week end

Morecambe Cross Bay

Jocelyn Granger took on the challenge of the Cross Bay Half across Morecambe Bay from Cumbria to Lancashire on Sunday 12th August dodging quicksands and wading through rivers. With no protection from fierce headwinds and stinging rain it was tougher than Charnwood Hills and the Grizzly! It didn't help because Jocelyn forgot her socks and no surprise after about 5 miles started feeling the blisters. There was no option but to run barefoot and leave her shoes behind with a marshall. It was very easy running on the sand and through the water after that and although she has to admit to a PW of 2.05 there's definitely something to be said for this barefoot running craze. In summary - a tough race very dependent on weather conditions and rather boring and featureless.

Blisworth Five

Eleven Northampton Road Runners took part in the ever popular Bliworth Friday Five, an undulating, long standing five miler around Northamptonshire's countryside.

Danson Njoka crossed the line in 6th place overall in a time 27.40.  Tony Letts was seconds ahead of Radoslav Nic in  31.18, with Nic finishing in 31.26.  Rosanna Andrews continued her impressive form in 31.49 and Peter Moor made his Blisworth debut in 34.15.  Martin Andrews improved on his Wellingborough time in 35.48 and Penny Andrews was close by in 35.37.  Jon Dilworth and Tony Kennedy enjoyed a close race in 41.34 and 41.55.
Mick Clarke continued his return from injury with a 43.07 finish and Jo Cummings broke the 50 minute barrier in 49.49.

6 Danson Njoka 27.40
36 Tony Letts 31.18
38 Radoslav Nic 31.26
42 Rosanna Andrews 31.49
67 Peter Moor 34.15
84 Martin Andrews 35.48
87 Penny Andrews 35.37
143 Jon Dilworth 41.34
144 Tony Kennedy 41.55
156 Mick Clarke 43.07
199 Jo Cummings 49.49

Wellingborough Five

The fast, flat and friendly Wellingborough Five is normally run is extreme temperatures making the possibility of a PB all that bit harder but this year's event greeted runners with a downpour as the horn sounded the start of the race.  A fast dash along the "Mad Mile" before a sharp left turn towards Sywell then left again after mile two into Mears Ashby village.  Competitors grab a quick refreshment before the the second very slight climb and then it's the loop back to the finish at the Old Grammarians.  The final few hundred yards swap tarmac for grass as those who can look up from the sprint finish can grab a glance of the ongoing cricket match on the green.

Northampton Road Runners are normally well represented and that man, Danson Njoka racked up another impressive time of 27:20.  Rosanna ANDREWS also added to her trophy cabinet again finishing second female overall in 31:50.

Mark Kennedy grabbed a PB with his fastest five miler for three years in 33:29.  Penny ANDREWS was third female vet in 35:50.  Martin ANDREWS was next to finish in 36:43 just ahead of Tom SULLIVAN in 36:59.

Jon Dilworth crossed the line in 40:55 and Mick CLARKE in 43:19 just ahead of Natalie ABRAHAM in 43:39.  Richard Rose also recorded a five mile PB in 46:59 and Pauline HORNE came home in 49:34.


5 Danson Njoka Male 27:20
42 Rosanna ANDREWS 31:50 2nd Female Overall
67 Mark Kennedy 33:29 PB
99 Penny ANDREWS 35:50 99 3 Female Vet
120 Martin ANDREWS 36:43
124 Tom SULLIVAN 36:59
172 Jon Dilworth 40:55
205 Mick CLARKE 43:19
210 Natalie ABRAHAM 43:39
231 Richard Rose 46:59 PB
253 Pauline HORNE 49:34 

Parkrun 28th June

Radoslav NIC finished second in the latest Parkrun in a time of 18:41.  Peter MOOR finished in 8th place in 20:10 and Ronnie AMBROSE was just behind in 20:29 taking 10th.  Tony KENNEDY and Mark GARRETT finished close together in 25:04 and 25:07.

 2 Radoslav NIC 18:41
8 Peter MOOR 20:10
10 Ronnie AMBROSE 20:29
32 Tony KENNEDY 25:04
33 Mark GARRETT 25:07

Parkrun 12

Radoslav NIC continued his good form at the latest Parkrun on Saturday 21st July finishing 6th overall in 19:01.  Peter MOOR continued to get closer to the twenty minute barrier in 20:04.  Ronnie AMBROSE and Mark KENNEDY had a close race finishing in 20:36
and 20:40 respectively.  Richard ROSE was pleased with his best finish of 27:40.

Wendy PARKER led home the ladies in 24:21 with Kirsty TURNER crossing the line in 28:17 and Claire SPOKES who finished strongly in 35:00.

The biggest cheer of the day was for young Morgan BRAND who left her father Matt for dust as she sprinted for the line in 39:55.
 6 Radoslav NIC 19:01
18 Peter MOOR 20:04
21 Ronnie AMBROSE 20:36
23 Mark Alan KENNEDY 20:40
45 Wendy PARKER 24:21
71 Richard ROSE 27:40
75 Kirsty TURNER 28:17
103 Claire SPOKES 35:00
108 Morgan BRAND 39:55
109 Matt BRAND 39:55

The Real Relay Makes BBC News

NRR Make National News - see picture 4.

** In pictures: The Real Relay **
Images from around the UK of a group of amateur runners who are following the route of the Olympic torch.
< http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/em/fr/-/news/uk-18873770 >

The Great Adderbury Swim

The Three Spires Challenge and 10K is a lovely jaunt through the Oxfordshire countryside which is around 60% off road and takes in some picturesque villages en-route.  Heavy rain the night before meant organisers had to adopt a plan B approach and alter the route slightly as an early stretch in the opening mile was described as only being accessible by canoe.

Prior to the off, a long race briefing by the organisers, the event began.  The 10K runners headed straight out of the field whilst the half marathoners did a lap before criss-crossing out the same exit.  A trip through a churchyard was followed by a road route from Adderbury towards Banbury before turning onto a narrow canal towpath.  There was no overtaking for a few miles and the only sounds heard was the splish-splashing of runners through the puddles.

A long climb on the road followed before a jaunt along a farm track and another huge climb at 6 miles where the half and 10K route met in the opposite direction.  Runners from both events waved and shouted encouragement and walkers were passed from their earlier set off time of 8:30am.  

The final road stretch went through the village of Bloxham before heading off road onto soggy fields for the toughest part of the race from nine miles.  Stiles, mud and sodden grass greeted runners before a tough climb at 11 miles and then a muddy narrow corn field pass before the icing on the cake!  at 12.5 miles, the course was flooded knee deep giving tired legs a challenge for the final stretch back into Adderbury village.  The course clocked at 13.7 mile giving great value for money and a medal, t-shirt and doughnut were on offer to the mud spatter smiling competitors at the end.
Northampton Road Runners dominated the lines ups with nine completing the half marathon, seven the 10K and two walkers. 

Andy Blaize finished 9th overall in the half marathon event, flying round the course in 1:33:57.  John Fleming also enjoyed a good run finishing 24th in 1:46:08 and Martin Andrews finished strongly in 1:48:06 taking 30th spot.  Mark Kennedy seconds behind in 1:48:11 and just ahead of Mark Garrett 1:48:21.  Penny Andrews crossed the line in 1:51:10 before the Baldwins, Darren and Suzanne in 1:52:00 and 2:09:07 respectively.  Martin Rowe completed the half field for NRR in 2:14:01.
 
Rosanna Andrews ditched her brolly at the start to break the course record for the ladies finishing in 47:33 and taking the prize yet again.  Cross country fan Tom Sullivan finished in 57:30 with Mary Sullivan in 1:04:13.  Jim Anderson returned from injury to record a pleasing 1:06:22 and Richard Rose crossed the line in 1:09:31.  Sally Garrett and Karen Townsend both finished in 1:40:24.

Elaine Palmer and Jules Kennedy both represented the club at the Adderbury Half Walk and completed the route in 3:56:00.

See http://www.theracephotographer.com/2012/AddHalf/index.htm for some great pictures.

Results for the Adderbury Half Run - approx 13.1 miles

9 Andy Blaize 1:33:57
24 John Fleming 1:46:08
30 Martin Andrews 1:48:06
31 Mark Kennedy 1:48:11
33 Mark Garrett 1:48:21
37 Penny Andrews 1:51:10
40 Darren Baldwin 1:52:00
105 Suzanne Baldwin 2:09:07
112 Martin Rowe 2:14:01

Results for the Adderbury Ten Run - approx 10 kilometres

3 Rosanna Andrews 47:33
14 Tom Sullivan 57:30
35 Mary Kingsnorth 1:04:13
44 Jim Anderson 1:06:22
56 Richard Rose 1:09:31
85 Sally Garrett 1:40:24
85 Karen Townsend 1:40:24

Results for the Adderbury Half Marathon Walk - approx. 13.1 miles

5 Elaine Palmer 3:56:00
5 Jules Kennedy 3:56:00

Half a dozen NRR members braved a wet Racecourse to take part in the latest Parkrun on Saturday 14th July.  Danson NJOKA smashed his PB and bagged another victory with a 17:06 finish.  Radoslav NIC continued his return to pure speed crossing the line in 18:46.  Peter MOOR may go on holiday and miss a Parkrun one day but he is like part of the Racecourse furniture on a Saturday morning, 20:25 was his latest effort.
Tony KENNEDY ran the circuit in 24:58 and Paula PINNEY in 26:53 with Simone SMITH crossing the line in 30:39.
1 Danson NJOKA 17:06
6 Radoslav NIC 18:46
14 Peter MOOR 20:25
59 Tony KENNEDY 24:58
73 Paula PINNEY 26:53
96 Simone SMITH 30:39

The Real Relay

On Friday 6th July, ten Northampton Road Runners took part in a charity event called the Real Relay.  The organisation have planned a mass relay following the Olympic Tourch route around the UK and willing volunteers sign up online to run a leg.

Charlotte Yarker and Mark Kennedy composed a team of club members and devised the route along the A4500 to run the Northampton to Wellingborough leg.  The 10.5 mile stretch took in some challenging hills between Ecton and Wilby before hitting Wellingborough Town Centre to meet up with members of  Wellingborough DAC who embarked on their journey to Geddington.

Support on the route was well recieved from fellow club runners who had just finished work, passers by in their cars and on foot and even some students from Northampton Academy who joined the crew for a few hundred yards.

Black Country Half

Jocelyn Granger is a big fan of offroad races and completed the Black Country Half on Saturday 7th July in 1:57 finishing 3rd in her age category.  The race route follows the canal from Wolverhampton to Brindley Place in the centre of Birmingham. The weather was lovely and sunny although going was very wet and really muddy underfoot requiring a lot of puddle/bog dodging which really sapped the energy. Also there were a lot of short steep bridges plus a very dark, unlit tunnel which totally confused the garmin. Water stations were manned by narrow boat owners along the canal and the marshalls were really friendly so there was a great atmosphere all the way along.

Danson First Again

Danson NJOKA was first home again at the latest Parkrun at the Racecourse in a time of 17:29.  Radoslav NIC continued his comeback at the club with a 6th place time of 19:05.  Peter MOOR finished in 20:11 and Matt BRAND in 21:17.  Regular organisers Martin ANDREWS (21:35) and Jo LEE (23:15) both managed a run this time and Tony KENNEDY (24:24) and Paula PINNEY (26:49) also completed the course.

1 Danson NJOKA 17:29
6 Radoslav NIC 19:05
10 Peter MOOR 20:11
23 Matt BRAND 21:17
26 Martin ANDREWS 21:35
41 Jo LEE 23:15
49 Tony KENNEDY 24:24
68 Paula PINNEY 26:49 

East Midlands Grand Prix Final Standings

Well done to everyone who took part in the East Midlands Grand Prix events this year.   Northampton Road Runners had some of our best achievements for a long time in this series.
Rosanna Andrews dominated the Junior Women category completing all eight events and winning seven of them to take the overall prize.  Charlotte Yarker completed six events and finished 7th overall in the Senior Women and Kirsty Turner was 11th overall

In the F35 category, Jo Cummings finished tenth overall completing six events and Suzanne Baldwin was 8th in the F40 group.   

Congratulations to Penny Andrews was 2nd in the F45 category.

Danson Njoka dominated the Senior Men finishing 5th overall with five top ten finishes out of six events completed (the other finish was 11th).

Peter Moor completed the full set of eight races and finished 25th overall and Martin Andrews was only ten places behind in 25th spot.

In the M40 Tony Letts finished 7th and Darren Baldwin was 11th in the M45 group.

Last but not least to the M60  and Tom Sullivan finished 5th and Richard Rose 10th.

The team standings finished as follows:

5th - Senior Women 
7th - Veteran Women
10th - Senior Men
8th - Veteran Men
 
Senior Women
7 Charlotte Yarker 
11 Kirsty Turner 

Junior Women
1 Rosanna Andrews 

F35
10 Jo Cummings 

F40
8 Suzanne Baldwin 

F45
2 Penny Andrews

Senior
5 Danson Njoka 
25 Peter Moor 
35 Martin Andrews 

M40
7 Tony Letts 

M45
11 Darren Baldwin 

M60
5 Tom Sullivan 
10 Richard Rose 

Watlington 10K

The Watlington 10K in the Chilterns is highly recommended on the race calender by three Northampton Road Runners. It's a tough cross country course with two really steep hills and several stiles and gates. You need to watch your footing most of the time but its easy to be distracted by amazing views over the Oxfordshire plain and red kites circling overhead.

A small, friendly event saw Tony Letts finish 2nd overall in 43:37.  Jocelyn Granger broke the hour in 59:20 and Jo Cummings finished in 67.29

They do a winter race in December over the same route so keep your eyes open for the date and it will be a good addition to our cross country league.

MK 10K (hey that rhymes).

The final race of the East Midlands Grand Prix series took place at a wet and drizzly Milton Keynes.  Normally basked in evening summer sunshine, the course takes a trip through Milton Keynes village towards Willen Lake before a long, monotonous stretch of duel carriageways and roundabouts on MK's redways.  The final mile enters a lush green stretch alongside the canal before returning to the grounds of the Open University.

Danson Njoka was first to get there in 35:29 despite taking a wrong turning at 9K and Tony Letts completed his series in 36:42.  Rosanna Andrews wrapped up another victory in the F20 category and grabbed a PB in 39:45.

Peter Moor also missed the turning at 9K but still managed a very respectable 43:26 and also holds the accolade of completing all eight series races.  Mark Kennedy was close behind in 43:52 followed by Darren Baldwin who bagged a PB in 44:33.

Martin Andrews was pleased with his time of 45:25 and Charlotte Yarker was four seconds ahead of Penny Andrews in 45:48.  Tom Sullivan was next home in 47:17 followed by Suzanne Baldwin in 53:36 and Jo Cummings in 55:43.  Elaine Palmer was next in 56:12 and Richard Rose was also among the PB crowd in 59:04.  Kirsty Turner completed the field in 59:31.
14 Danson Njoka 35:29
27 Tony Letts 36:42
78 Rosanna Andrews 39:45 1st F20
121 Peter Moor 43:26
142 Mark Kennedy 43:52
162 Darren Baldwin 44:33
184 Martin Andrews 45:25
199 Charlotte Yarker 45:48
200 Penny Andrews 45:52
226 Tom Sullivan 47:17
328 Suzanne Baldwin 53:36
348 Jo Cummings 55:43
351 Elaine Palmer 56:12
370 Richard Rose 59:04
373 Kirsty Turner 59:31

The Achievements Keep Coming...

Northampton Road Runners are currently sitting pretty in both the East Midlands Grand Prix table and the Parkrun participation table.

East Midlands Grand Prix

Senior Women
5th from 39

Veteran Women
7th from 27

Senior Men
9th from 47

Veteran
8th from 31

Rosanna Andrews is currently top of the F20 category and Danson Nikoja is 6th male overall. There is one event to go tonight.

Park Run

Participation Table
2nd

Peter Moor is 1st in the individual participation too.
Danson Nikoja and Andy Blaize had recent victories in this event.

Andy's A Parkrun Winner

Andy BLAIZE stormed home to win the latest Parkrun in 18:26 at a blustery Racecourse on Saturday 30th June.  Peter MOOR finished 10th in 20:16 which keeps him top of the Parkrun points table.  Ronnie AMBROSE was seconds behind in 20:49 and Tom SULLIVAN enjoyed a good run in 22:43.

After all her hard work organising recent events, Jo LEE finally got to take part in a Parkrun and finished in 23:49.  Wendy PARKER was next home in 25:02 followed by Tony KENNEDY (25:27) and Elaine PALMER (26:30).

 1 Andy BLAIZE 18:26
10 Peter MOOR 20:16
13 Ronnie AMBROSE 20:49
23 Tom SULLIVAN 22:43
27 Jo LEE 23:49
34 Wendy PARKER 25:02
37 Tony KENNEDY 25:27
43 Elaine PALMER 26:30

Weedon's Hills

The Weedon 10K is the seventh race of the East Midlands Grand Prix Series and arguably the hilliest.  A climb of around one kilometre through Everdon Stubbs, shaded by overhanging trees, opens up to stunning views across Northamptonshire's countryside. 

Ten Northampton Road Runners got to enjoy the challenging route and were once again, led home by Danson Njoka in an impressive 36:52 who cemented himself in 4th in the series with one event to go.  Tony Letts currently sits in 6th overall in the M40 category and kept up his form with a 38:39 finish.

Peter Moor continued his EMGP quest with a time of 44:31 and Martin Andrews crossed the line in 49:07 just ahead of Tom Sullivan in 49:48.

Dave Knowley was next home in 52:11 ahead of Mick Clarke (58:43) and Richard Rose in 62:33.
Rosanna Andrews continued to lead the way for the ladies in 40:11 and once again was 1st F20 overall.  Ann Dickson also finished in 63:58.

11 Danson Njoka 36:52
23 Tony Letts 38:39
35 Rosanna Andrews 40:11 1st F20
89 Peter Moor 44:31
145 Martin Andrews 49:07
151 Tom Sullivan 49:48
181 Dave Knowley 52:11
226 Mick Clarke 58:43
240 Richard Rose 62:33
242 Ann Dickson 63:58

Marston Forest 5K

Andy Pate was the sole NRR particpant in the the Marston Forest 5K on Friday 15th June in 24.33.

The Colworth Weekend

The Colworth Marathon Challenge has become a cult weekend for Northampton Road Runners as members descend on Colworth House at Sharnbrook to take part in a weekend of running challenges, camping and a little bit of partying.

Jo Lee raced her dad another Mark all weekend.
Finally can you mention Tom and Mary and a number of others ( not enough unfortunately) who came over Sat evening.

Friday Night
Once the tents are pitched on the Friday, it's off to the start line for the first event of the weekend, the five mile single lap circuit kick off at 7pm. Heavy rain made going tough with runners negotiating puddles along the opening stretch of farm track, not knowing how deep most of them would be. At the halfway stage, the route turns into a lovely woodland trail which was sodden in mud causing some interesting footing issues.

Tony Letts chose to leave his trail shoes in the tent but still impressed finishing 15th overall in 32:02. Carrick Baldwin again showed his parents how it's done with a great time of 34:46. Mark Kennedy made up good ground in the second half of the race to finish in 36:39 only two seconds ahead of John Fleming (36:41). Ronnie Ambrose and and Mark Garrett enjoyed a good battle to the line finishing in 37:29 and 37:30 respectively. Darren Baldwin looked remarkably clean at the finish, obviously avoiding the puddles on the way round (39:02). Guests Mark Lee was racing his daughter Jo and finished in 41:03 and David Garrett let his dad beat him finishing in 45:01.

Jo Lee was first lady home for the club in 41:54 and Jon Dilworth was close behind in 43:26. Wendy Parker crossed the line in 44:26 and Jo Smith finished in exactly 45 minutes. Natasha Frolich crossed the line in 47:15 helped along by first dog on the nigght, rufus (also spotted at the Parkrun recently). Elaine Palmer was next to finish in 47:32 just before Mick Clarke in 48:24 Suzanne and Coral (plus dog) completed the Baldwin's family affair in 50:15. If there is a race, he is there, Richard Rose finished in 51:19 and Sally Garrett skipped through the mud in 1:07:50.

Saturday Midday
After a Friday night of barbecues and a good night's sleep (ahem) in the tents, you could lie in if you wish before the midday start of the 8.1 trail race. The single lap affair takes in a different route from Friday but includes a challenging uneven farm trail with a downhill/uphill dog leg to kill off your legs.

Going underfoot wasn't any easier in this tough event but John Fleming recorded a good time of 1:05:35 with Darren Baldwin close behind in 1:08:05. Off road specialist Mark Garrett continued to defy a sore back to finish in 1:09:27 with Ronnie Ambrose just behind in 1:10:58. Guest Mark Lee could beat daughter Jo today (1:21:57).  Mick Clarke (1:30:28) and Patrick (Spike) Breydn were the other two boys to finish (1:55:15).

Four ladies took on the toughie, Suzanne Baldwin crossed the line in 1:17:41 ahead of Jo Lee in 1:20:02. Jo Smith and Wendy Parker finished in 1:23:19 and 1:27:39.

Sunday Morning
After a Saturday night party in the marquee to celebrate the recent wedding of Tom Sullivan and Mary Kingsnorth, it was up bright and early to test those weary legs in the half marathon. Those on their third day will complete the marathon distance today on the two lap course which is similar to Friday's 5 miler.

Tony Letts took the 1st M35 prize and was 6th overall in 1:28:46. Also in the honours was Mick Clarke who was 1st M65 in 2:18:13.

Mark Garrett rounded off his campaign in 1:50:33 and completed the challenge. Ronnie Ambrose (1:52:26), Mark Lee (1:58:11) and Darren Baldwin (2:05:48) also achieved the marathon distance.

The lady marathoners were Jo Lee who finished Sunday in 2:08:04, Jo Smith (2:13:52) and 191 Suzanne Baldwin (2:26:50). Natasha Frolich finished her first ever half marathon in 2:24:39 and Jo Cummings crossed the line in 2:28:25.

Finally, massive congratulations to Jo Smith who receieved the coveted award from the organisers for completing her 5th Colworth Marathon Challenge.

Colworth Five - Friday Night
15 Tony Letts 32:02
46 Carrick Baldwin 34:46
71 Mark Kennedy 36:39
72 John Fleming 36:41
84 Ronnie Ambrose 37:29
86 Mark Garrett 37:30
107 Darren Baldwin 39:02
131 Mark Lee 41:03
142 Jo Lee 41:54
161 Jon Dilworth 43:26
170 Wendy Parker 44:26
180 Joanna Smith 45:00
182 David Garrett 45:01
217 Natasha Frolich 47:15
218 Elaine Palmer 47:32
235 Mick Clarke 48:24
251 Coral Baldwin 50:13
252 Suzanne Baldwin 50:15
259 Richard Rose 51:19
298 Sally Garrett 1:07:50

Colworth 8.1 Trail Race - Saturday Midday
52 John Fleming 1:05:35
67 Darren Baldwin 1:08:05
72 Mark Garrett 1:09:27
76 Ronnie Ambrose 1:10:58
102 Suzanne Baldwin 1:17:41
111 Jo Lee 1:20:02
119 Mark Lee 1:21:57
125 Jo Smith 1:23:19
147 Wendy Parker 1:27:39
161 Mick Clarke 1:30:28
180 Patrick Breydn 1:55:15

Colworth Half - Sunday Morning
6 Tony Letts 1:28:46 1st M35
65 Mark Garrett 1:50:33
74 Ronnie Ambrose 1:52:26
93 Mark Lee 1:58:11
121 Darren Baldwin 2:05:48
129 Jo Lee 2:08:04
146 Jo Smith 2:13:52
157 Mick Clarke 2:18:13 1st M65
179 Natasha Frolich 2:24:39 (1st ever half marathon).
191 Suzanne Baldwin 2:26:50
194 Jo Cummings 2:28:25

Colworth Marathon Challenge
50 Mark Garrett 3:37:30
60 Ronnie Ambrose 3:40:53
69 Darren Baldwin 3:52:55
77 Mark Lee 4:01:11
87 Jo Lee 4:10:00
99 Joanna Smith 4:22:11
111 Suzanne Baldwin 4:34:46
117 Mick Clarke 4:37:05

Park Run 23rd June

Danson NJOKA continued his excellent form at the Parkrun finishing the latest outing in 2nd place in a time of 17:16.   Radoslav NIC finished in 6th recording a time of 19:06.  Tom SULLIVAN enjoyed a good run in 22:57 and Mary KINGSNORTH continued her comeback in 27:14.

2 Danson NJOKA 17:16
6 Radoslav NIC 19:06
35 Tom SULLIVAN 22:57
67 Mary KINGSNORTH 27:14

Club vs Country - Harborough Five

Despite England taking on the Ukraine clashing with the Harborough Five, a hearty seventeen Northampton Road Runners turned out on the undulating course on the Northants/Leics border.

Finishing in 12th overall on the night was Danson Njoka in 28:22 and Tony Letts was a second under the half hour barrier in 29:59.  Peter Moor had another great run finishing in 33:36 and 149 Rob Donovan and Tom Sullivan enjoyed a personal race arriving at the finish in 38:16 and 38:50 respectively.  Mick Clarke returned from injury and finished in 46:13 just ahead of Richard Rose in 48:50.

For the ladies, Rosanna Andrews continued to dominate the F20 category, yet again finishing at the top of the pile in 31:41.  Charlotte Yarker and Penny Andrews were withing three seconds of each other in 36:42 and 36:45.  Jocelyn Granger recorded another great time in 39:02 and next home was Suzanne Baldwin (42:47) and Jo Cummings (45:55).  Kirsty Turner had a good run in 47:22 and was closely pursued by Caroline Cope in 47:34 and Mary Kingsnorth in 47:38 with Ann Dickson not far behind in 48:17.
 
12 Danson Njoka 28:22
24 Tony Letts 29:59
46 Rosanna Andrews 31:41 1 F20
72 Peter Moor 33:36
116 Charlotte Yarker 36:42
119 Penny Andrews 36:45
149 Rob Donovan 38:16
162 Tom Sullivan 38:50
166 Jocelyn Granger 39:02
222 Suzanne Baldwin 42:47
249 Jo Cummings 45:55
252 Mick Clarke 46:13
260 Kirsty Turner 47:22
262 Caroline Cope 47:34
263 Mary Kingsnorth 47:38
268 Ann Dickson 48:17
270 Richard Rose 48:50

Danson Storms Home At Parkrun

A good turnout for the latest Parkrun saw a great victory to Northampton Road Runners' Danson NJOKA who led the field home in 17:49.  Peter MOOR continued his impressive form and tops the Parkrun league overall, he crossed the line in 20:14.  Mark GARRETT was close behind in 20:30 and Ronnie AMBROSE made his Racecourse debut in 21:02.  Another event debutant was Wendy PARKER who continued her comeback from injury in 25:17.  Next to finish was Elaine PALMER 26:33 seconds ahead of Natalie ABRAHAM in 26:37 and Claire SPOKES completed the line up in 39:02.

1 Danson NJOKA 17:49
9 Peter MOOR 20:14
12 Mark GARRETT 20:30
15 Ronnie AMBROSE 21:02
45 Wendy PARKER 25:17
59 Elaine PALMER 26:33
60 Natalie ABRAHAM 26:37
82 Claire SPOKES 39:02

East Midlands Grand Prix Standings (after 4 rounds)

Northampton Road Runners are sitting proudly in the EMGP 2012 table after Corby's event at the end of May, well done everyone.

Team Standings after Four Races (not including Banbury last night)

Senior Women
5th from 30

Veteran Women
6th from 20 

Senior Men 
7th from 40

Veteran Men 
5th from 26

Banbury Five

A good turnout of eleven Northampton Road Runners completed Round Five of the East Midlands Grand Prix series at Banbury on Wednesday 12th June.

Danson Njoka finished 15th overall with an impressive time of 28:42 and Tony Letts also broke 30 minutes in 29:38. Peter Moor's presence at the local Parkruns is certainly paying off as he recorded an impressive 32:45. Martin Andrews battled it out with Darren Baldwin to finish in 35:30 just ahead of Darren in 35:46. Steve Prior continued his marathon recovery with his return race in a time of 38:59.

For the ladies, Rosanna Andrews continued to impress for the ladáies with a 31:41 fast enough to be 3rd lady overall and again 1st F20. Charlotte Yarker enjoyed a good run in 36:24 and Penny Andrews was 4th F45 in 36:28. Jo Lee came home in 39:33 and Suzanne Baldwin in 42:48.  The ladies team were 4th on the night overall.
 
15 Danson Njoka 28:42
30 Tony Letts 29:38
65 Rosanna Andrews 31:41 3rd lady 1st F20
84 Peter Moor 32:45
141 Martin Andrews 35:30
145 Darren Baldwin 35:46
160 Charlotte Yarker 36:24
163 Penny Andrews 36:28 4th F45
214 Steve Prior 38:59
225 Jo Lee 39:33
259 Suzanne Baldwin 42:48

Jocelyn Shines At The Otmoor Challenge

The weather was kind on Saturday 9th June for the organisers and participants of the Otmoor Challenge.  The event takes place in the village of Horton-Cum-Studley just outside Oxford and encompasses a village fare and over 400 took part in the half marathon run plus the option to walk 5 or 13 miles.

The route winds along country lanes, footpaths and bridleways and locals are plentiful en-route to give you a cheer on.  If you are not too tired, you can do some bird spotting on the way thanks to an active presence of the R.S.P.B. There is only one major hill at 11 miles to test those energy sapped legs.

Two NRR runners took on the half marathon challenge and massive congratulations again to Jocelyn Granger on another award, third lady home in the Ladies Supervet Category in a time of 1:54:21.  Mark Kennedy also completed the course in 1:46:58 just missing out on theTed Ogden award by six places.  The award is given to the 100th runner home in memory of who was one of the founders of the event.

Jules Kennedy completed the half marathon walk in around three and a half hours.

106 Mark Kennedy1:46:58
146 Jocelyn Granger 1:54:21 3rd Lady

Half Marathon Walk
Jules Kennedy 3:30ish

Park Run

The rain finally gave way for Saturday's Park Run and an NRR trio completed the morning run.

3 Radoslav NIC 19:25
9 Peter MOOR 20:14
12 John FLEMING 20:40

Steve's Edinburgh Adventure

Steve Prior completed his second marathon in just over a month.  After his late entry to London, he nailed Edinburgh in 3:38:27 which he was undoubtedly very pleased with. The day turned out to be a hot 24 degrees by midday making the distance extremely challenging.

Congratualtions Tom and Mary

Northampton Road Runners isn't always about running, it is about encouragement, meeting like minded people, camaraderie and friendship and sometimes...even love.

The NRR committee, members and friends of the club would like to congratulate Tom Sullivan and Mary Kingsnorth on their marriage on Friday 1st June.

Here's to a great couple.

Park Run 2nd June

The weather held fine for the latest Park Run which held a Jubilee theme.  Well done to Mark for sporting his Union Jack headwear (and taking the dog for a jog too) and for Charlotte for flying her flag around the course.  Good to see Matt returing to action after his injury earlier this year.

10 Radoslav NIC 19:27
14 Peter MOOR 20:25
16 Mark KENNEDY 21:01
21 Matt BRAND 21:17
26 Charlotte YARKER 22:30
42 Mark GARRETT (and dog) 25:19

If You Want To Fly...Don't Hand Around With Chickens...

‎250 Runners turned up for the Chicken Run at Brackley on Sunday, braving the toasty weather and breezy winds for the 10K. Congratulations to the Road Runners that turned up and for the excellent times posted. Special mention goes to Rosanna Andrews for coming in 1st (again) overall in women's and to Danson Njoka for a storming time of 37:13.  

Penny Andrews enjoyed a great run and finished in 47:44 and Richard Rose is a regular on the event circuit at the moment, he finished in exactly one hour.

Danson Njoka 9th 37:13
Rosanna Andrews 20th 41:02
Penny Andrews 60th 47:44
Richard Rose 159th 60:00

A huge turnout of 26 Northampton Road Runners decended on East Carlton Country Park for the Corby Five on Wednesday 30th May.

There were some fine performances which included a 20th place overall finish for Danson Njoka who was only seconds off breaking 30 minutes in 30:08.  Rosanna Andrews was also first F20 in 32:09 and Carrick Baldwin flew the flag for the male juniors finishing second M20 in 33:24.  Jocelyn Granger also scooped the first F50 placing in 39:45.

Tony Letts continued his brilliant form finishing in 30:35 and Nic Radoslav made a welcome return to the club with a respectable 33:25 time.  Ever present in the EMGP this year, Peter Moor enjoyed a good run in 34:11 finishing just ahead of John Fleming 34:33.  Adrian Tuck completed his first race of the year in 34:59 and Ronnie Ambrose finished in 35:54 just ahead of Richard Franks in 36:01.

Martin Andrews was next to finish in 37:20 just before Charlotte Yarker who had a good run in 37:31.  Penny Andrews crossed the line in 38:19 followed by Rob Donovan in 38:25 and Dave Blackburn in 39:25.

The claret and yellow stripes continued to flow across the line with Andrew Pate (41:17), Jo Lee (41:21) and Suzanne Baldwin (42:39) all next to finish.  Darren Byfield (43:03) and Dave Knowley (43:38) were close behind followed by a welcome return from injury by Wendy Parker who was bang on 44 minutes.  Jo Cummings (46:13), Kirsty Turner (48:47), Helen Blackburn (50:01) and Richard Rose (50:29) all beat the thunder storms to complete a great line up.


20 Danson Njoka 30:08
25 Tony Letts 30:35
49 Rosanna Andrews 32:09 - 1st F20
60 Carrick Baldwin 33:24 - 2nd M20
61 Nic Radoslav 33:25
76 Peter Moor 34:11
85 John Fleming 34:33
98 Adrian Tuck 34:59
119 Ronnie Ambrose 35:54
123 Richard Franks 36:01
137 Martin Andrews 37:20
139 Charlotte Yarker 37:31
157 Penny Andrews 38:19
160 Rob Donovan 38:25
177 Dave Blackburn 39:25
182 Jocelyn Granger F50 39:45 - 1st F50
205 Andrew Pate 41:17
207 Jo Lee 41:21
221 Suzanne Baldwin 42:39
225 Darren Byfield 43:03
231 Dave Knowley 43:38
235 Wendy Parker 44:00
254 Jo Cummings 46:13
268 Kirsty Turner 48:47
274 Helen Blackburn 50:01
275 Richard Rose 50:29

Bedford 6 Results

Round three of the East Midlands Grand Prix saw 13 Northampton Road Runners make the short trip to Bedford for the flat six mile outing.

Danson Njoka continued his great form finishing 16th overall in 35:40 and Rosanna Andrews carried on flying with a 38:18 finish.

Peter Moor is racing regularly and would have been pleased to record 41:39.  John Fleming was next to cross the line in 43:09 ahead of Darren Baldwin in 44:13 and Tom Sullivan in 44:32.

Rob Donovan was next home in 45:33 ahead of Penny Andrews (46:44) who was seconds ahead of Martin Andrews in 46:53.

Suzanne Baldwin enjoyed a good time of 50:35 and Jo Lee 51:19.  Jo Cummings was next to finish ahead of 55:19 and Richard Rose completed the round up in 60:22.

16th Danson Njoka 35:40
47th Rosanna Andrews 38:18
104th Peter Moor 41:39
124th John Fleming 43:09
144th Darren Baldwin 44:13
148th Tom Sullivan 44:32
162th Rob Donovan 45:33
185th Penny Andrews 46:44
190th Martin Andrews 46:53
239th Suzanne Baldwin 50:35
248th Jo Lee 51:19
283rd Jo Cummings 55:19
306th Richard Rose 60:22

Park Run Results from Saturday 26th May.

4. Mark GARRETT 19:26
5. Radoslav NIC 19:36
9. Andrew THOMAS 20:09
13. Peter Moor 20:41
29. Tom SULLIVAN 22:29
77. Pauline HORNE 30:37

The Young Uns Flying at Rugby

The Rugby 6 belonged to two teenagers as Rosanna Andrews was first F20 (39:28) and Carrick Baldwin finished second M20 (40:17) to scoop the plaudits for NRR.

Peter Moor enjoyed a good run in 41:08 finishing ten seconds ahead of John Fleming in 41:18.  Son beat father as Darren Baldwin was around three minutes behind Carrick in 43:04.

Charlotte Yarker continues to go from strength to strength crossing the line in 44:13 just ahead of Martin Andrews in 45:07 and Rob Donovan in 45:24.  Tom Sullivan was also close by in 45:40 and Andrew Pate broke 50 minutes in 49:33.

Suzanne Baldwin was next to come home in 50:19 ahead of Jo Cummings in 55:33, Ann Dickson in 56:21 and Kirsty Turner in 56:55.  Richard Rose capped a fine turnout in 59:11.

51 Rosanna Andrews 39:28 1st F20
71 Carrick Baldwin 40:17 2nd M20
88 Peter Moor 41:08
91 John Fleming 41:18
121 Darren Baldwin 43:04
138 Charlotte Yarker 44:13
155 Martin Andrews 45:07
159 Robert Donovan 45:24
164 Tom Sullivan 45:40
223 Andrew Pate 49:33
230 Suzanne Baldwin 50:19
259 Jo Cummings 55:33
265 Ann Dickson 56:21
267 Kirsty Turner 56:55
278 Richard Rose 59:11