Ultra Heroes

Lamport Hall then run around half of Northamptonshire then back to Lamport.  "What a good idea said Jocelyn, who can I round up for this?"

Four Northampton Road Runners completed the Spires and Squires Ultra on 2nd June. The beautiful 35 mile route wound its way through the countryside bathing the competitors in sunshine throughout.

Matt Brand finished in 18th overall in a great time of 5:39:46 (not that times matter in these things, it is all about finishing the challenge). Mark Garrett made his ultra debut in 6:32:22 and Jocelyn Granger completed the course in 7:15:21.  Richard Cormack also finished in 8:20.

Well done all, Northampton Road Runners love off-road running!

18 Matt Brand 5:39:46
58 Mark Garrett 6:32:22
81 Jocelyn Granger 7:15:21  
Richard Cormack 8:20
Mark Garrett added, "Well 4 of us started and 4 of us finished. The feet suffered and my head got burnt. It was nearly as hard as a Christmas shopping trip.  We were very grateful to see friendly faces at checkpoints and at the finish to spur us on and not allow us to consider giving in.  I discovered a whole new world of running, out on your own for a very long time.

It was however a great experience, however next time I see Jocelyn, heading my way with another good idea I will be going into hiding."


 

The Otmoor Challenge

The Otmoor Challenge is a friendly half marathon that takes place in the Oxfordshire village of Horton-Cum-Studley, a few miles from the Northants county border.  Upon arrival, runners are treated to a village festival and the course is already being tackled by walkers who can start the even from 9:00am.

The mass start is an unusual 2:00pm Saturday afternoon and festival goers take a break from the craft stalls and beer tent to cheer the 350 strong field off on their way.

The first half of the course is mainly on roads through picturesque villages but at the halfway point, tarmac is swapped for grass and farm trails.  Although pretty flat, there is one major climb at 11 miles to test everyone's wits at the crucial point of the race but it's a downhill stretch before a welcome back at the festival at the end.

Mark Kennedy ran the Otmoor last year and knocked over ten minutes off the time, finishing in 1:36:56.  Darren and Suzanne Baldwin continued their marathon training for their June adventure and finished in 1:44:55 in 2:07:11.

The beer tent was visited by the trio at the end.

62 Mark Kennedy 1:36:56
114 Darren Baldwin 1:44:55
258 Suzanne Baldwin 2:07:11

Saturday Parkrunners 1st June

Brockenhurst Parkrun, Dorset -  event number 2.

21 Ronnie AMBROSE 23:09
31 Wendy PARKER 26:08

Northampton Parkrun - event number 56

188 participants completed the run today.

19 Peter MOOR 19:33 - MASSIVE PB
91 Tony KENNEDY 24:24
97 Jo LEE 24:31 - MASSIVE PB
106 Elaine PALMER 25:15
168 Simone SMITH 32:54

Corby Five

Round four marks the halfway point of the East Midlands Grand Prix Series with the Corby Five starting at East Carlton Country Park. 

Tony Letts improved two places on Blisworth this time finishing second in his age category in a time of 30:06. Stuart Drummond was next to finish in 32:34 just ahead of Pete Moor who is flying at the moment (32:50).

Darren Byfield crossed the line in 38:24 ahead of Beckie Hollowell, who was first lady for the club in 38:33.  Second lady Jo Lee wasn't far behind in 39:25 and Charlotte Yarker was next - 39:40.  Andy Cottrell finished in 39:49 ahead of Tony Kennedy 40:18 and Eamon Kennedy 41:15.

Tom Sullivan continued his return to fitness with a 42:50 finish and Elaine Palmer enjoyed a good run in 43:17 just ahead of Jo Smith 43:31.  Mary Sullivan was a proud 2nd F55 in 43:38 and Colin Bricher completed his second race in less than a week in 47:11.
 
26 Tony Letts 30:06 2nd M45
56 Stuart Drummond 32:34
62 Peter Moor 32:50
77 Paul Smith 33:35
175 Darren Byfield 38:24
178 Rebecca Hollowell 38:33
189 Jo Lee 39:25
197 Charlotte Yarker 39:40
201 Andy Cottrell 39:49
210 Tony Kennedy 40:18
221 Eamon Kennedy 41:15
233 Tom Sullivan 42:50
241 Elaine Palmer 43:17
246 Jo Smith 43:31
248 Mary Sullivan 43:38 2nd F55
264 Colin Bricher 47:11

Northampton parkrun 55

Results for Northampton Parkrun, event number 55, 25/05/2013.
       
12 Peter MOOR 19:57
19 Mark KENNEDY 20:47
72 Elaine PALMER 25:28
96 Mick CLARKE 27:33

Blisworth Five

The Blisworth Friday Five normally hosts a 5K in May but this year the five mile event was swapped into its place to accommodate the East Midlands Grand Prix to replace Bedford.  A challenging, undulating course was visited by 16 Northampton Road Runners on a blustery, wet Friday evening.

Tony Letts finished 35th overall and was 4th M45 in  29:43.  Matt Brand continued his excellent form with a 31:36 finish and was only a few seconds ahead of Stuart Drummond in 31:52.  Pete Moor finished strongly in 32:42 (is he doing the Parkrun the following day???).

Penny Andrews was first lady home for the club in 36:21 (3rd F45 overall).  Darren Byfield and Charlotte Yarker enjoyed a battle to the line with only one second between them 38:31 and 38:32, Beckie Hollowell was also very close behind in 38:50.

Jo Lee also enjoyed a good run in 39:10 with Tony Kennedy (39:52) and Andy Cottrell (39:53) also breaking 40 minutes.

Eamon Kennedy finished in 40:08 ahead of Tom and Mary Sullivan 45:07.  Colin Bricher 46:38 and Jo Cummings 49:14 completed the line up.
 
35 Tony Letts 29:43 4th M45
59 Matt Brand 31:36
64 Stuart Drummond 31:52
75 Peter Moor M40 32:42
164 Penny Andrews 36:21 3rd F45
204 Darren Byfield 38:31
205 Charlotte Yarker 38:32
212 Rebecca Hollowell 38:50
218 Jo Lee 39:10
238 Tony Kennedy 39:52
240 Andy Cottrell 39:53
245 Eamon Kennedy 40:08
304 Mary Sullivan 45:07
305 Tom Sullivan 45:07
319 Colin Bricher 46:38
337 Jo Cummings 49:14

NORTHAMPTON ROAD RUNNERS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AWARDS EVENING ON 22ND MAY 2013

Mark G and Mark K were proud to present the NORTHAMPTON ROAD RUNNERS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AWARDS EVENING ON 22^ND MAY 2013

 

The evening kicked off with formalities which included agreeing the Minutes from 2012, Election of Officials – the current committee re-elected and members invited to approach us with any ideas or suggestions they may have for the club.

 

Dave Soloman delivered the Treasurer’s Report before Marathon Charity Donations were awarded to Glen Cousner, John Fleming & Jocelyn Granger who all ran London on Charity Bond Places. 

 

Club Kit continues on sale and the Cross Country league have allowed the wearing of club T-shirts as well as vests.   Tom Sullivan will hold kit for any future purchases.

 

Sports Personality of the Year started with Mark G highlighting some of the major races of the year highlighted including the following:-

 

2012 Grand Prix Series, Colworth Marathon Challenge, Adderbury, Real Torch Relay – Beckets Park to Wellingborough to celebrate Olympic Games, Cransley & Daventry 10 – County Champs, trophies picked up by club, Moulton 10K -   Eighth event to be held on the 25^th August 2013, Winter X-Country league – 46 runners involved - Chris Lamb, guest runner, came 2^nd overall.  Eight runners took part in all five races, The Belvoir Challenge, Ashby 20, The Grizzly, Folksworth and Berkhamstead.

 

Park Run

Mark K reported and Jo Lee was recognised for her organisation of this, together with regular help from Martin Andrews and Elaine Palmer.  Put on in conjunction with Wootton Road Runners.  Andy Blaize, Becky Holloway, Danson, Jo Lee, and Roseanna Andrews have all been winners.  Pete Moor took part in the most races for the men and Glen Cousner won Best Fancy Dress prize on the birthday run.

 

Marathon Heroes

Edinburgh – Steve Prior; Kilder Water – Lynton Dawson & Jocelyn Granger; Rutland Water – Lynton, Matt Brand, Jasmine Banks & Martin Rowe; Portsmouth – Ronnie & Wendy; Paris – Mark & Sally, Mary, Jim & Mick, Mark Kennedy, and a special mention to Tom who was unable to take part; London – Tony Letts, Andy, Matt Brand, Gary McDaniels, John Flemming, Ben Mullaney, Jocelyn, Wendy Parker, Rob Donovan, Michael Franks, Pauline Horne, Dave Solomon; Stratford – Ronnie, Mark K, Mary Sullivan.

 

Members were reminded to send details of all their runs to Mark Kennedy so that he can have them printed in the Chronicle & Echo.  Ronnie is also updating a calendar of races, local and recommended.  NRR also now has a Twitter account – www.twitter.com/nrrweb.

 

Trophies

Nikki MacKay, Physio, has donated vouchers for treatments as prizes.  Glen has donated bottle of cider to each winner and Mark K a Herbalife bar (cider and protein rolled into one).

 

Chairman’s Award – SALLY GARRETT. 

Spirit of the club best represented by the person chosen for this award.  They turn up every  Wednesday & Friday, all social events.  Not afraid to try different types of races.  In 2012/13, they set a goal to run a Marathon for the first time.  Ran all 5 x-country races, ran first half marathon and are a good friend and inspiration to their group.

 

Most Improved Female Runner – Charlotte Yarker

Mentions also to Penny Andrews, Jasmine Banks, Sally Garrett, Beckie Hollowell

 

Most Improved Male Runner – Mark Kennedy

Mentions to Martin Andrews, Matt Brand, Pete Moor, Paul Braddock

 

Committee Award – Sue Thompson

Mentions to Elaine Palmer and Jo Lee

 

Female Runner of the Year – Rosanna Andrews

Mentions to Jocelyn, Penny, Charlotte, & Sally

 

Male Runner of the Year – Martin Andrews

Mentions to Tony Letts, Mark Garrett, Mark Nightingale, Matt Brand, Pete Moor & John Fleming.

 

Chairman’s Report (Highlights)

Alan Hackett delivered a lovely closing speech to cap off a fun-filled, action-packed night;

 

“One of club’s old members, Mike Thomas, sadly passed away recently.   He was one of the original United Trades runners.  In those early days, it was just a social club, running in Claret & Gold, the old athletics colours for the county.  There was no committee and the group were together for 6 years before they got one.  The club was run on £20 in an ashtray as subs and planning the route took place at a gathering held at the bottom of the stairs.  In 2001 the club moved its base to Moulton, where it took on enthusiastic new members including Karen and Jo.  Now the club has top runners that any club would be proud of.  We are still social but a dam good running club too. 

 

I would like to thank the current committee for their hard work.  Dave Solomon as Treasurer, and Jo Smith as Secretary who have both been in post for nearly 13 years.  Mark Garrett as Race Director and general organiser for the club routes’, is praised for his commitment and enthusiasm.

 

Over 30 years, United Trades or Northampton Road Runners as it became, has grown stronger financially and in participation.  We now stand out amongst equals and are no longer a small club.

 

Thanks to everyone for participating on club nights and in races.  Hopefully the 2013/14 season will be injury free and as you set your goals and targets I hope Northampton Road Runners will be there to share them with you.”

 

 

Thank you for everyone who attended, we had record numbers which represented well over half our membership.  Northampton Road Runners is proud to continue to offer our members a friendly and welcoming club.  As a member, thank you for continuing our proud reputation.

CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS ON THE WEBSITE

Results for Northampton Parkrun - Event - 18/05/2013.

9 Peter MOOR 19:43
10 Rosanna ANDREWS 19:45 - 1st lady
38 Penny ANDREWS 22:51
50 Jo LEE 23:36
110 Richard ROSE 28:51
148 Andrew PATE 36:40

Rugby 6 - EMGP Round 2

Another great turnout from NRR at the second round of the popular East Midland Grand Prix at Rugby.  After a flat start at Silverstone last week, runners were treated to an undulating country route starting at Hillmorden.

Danson Njoka was first to finish with another great performance in 34:45, he was 14th overall.  Tony Letts was 31st in a time of 36:24 and Carrick Baldwin was flying, finishing in 38:41. 

Rosanna Andrews was 2nd F20 in 39:06 and Pete Moor was next to finish in 40:18 just seconds ahead of Stuart Drummond in 40:59.

Ronnie Ambrose crossed the line in 41:52 and Adrian Tuck followed in 42:22 before Darren Baldwin 43:27 and Charlotte Yarker 45:28, who enjoyed a battle to the line with Beckie Hollowell 45:35.

Penny Andrews continued her comeback in 46:11 and Andy Cottrell enjoyed a good run in 47:04 seconds ahead of Wendy Parker in 47:06.  Eamon Kennedy was pleased to break 50 minutes in 49:13

Elaine Palmer came home in 51:15 ahead of Suzanne Baldwin 52:19, Jim Anderson 52:20 and then the Sullivans, Mary and Tom in 53:59.  Jo Cummings crossed the line in 57:24 and Richard Rose completed a great line up in 58:42.14 Danson Njoka 34:45

31 Tony Letts 36:24
69 Carrick Baldwin 38:41
82 Rosanna Andrews 39:06 2nd F20
105 Pete Moor 40:18
117 Stuart Drummond 40:59
134 Ronnie Ambrose 41:52
143 Adrian Tuck 42:22
166 Darren Baldwin 43:27
200 Charlotte Yarker 45:28
201 Rebecca Hollowell 45:35
210 Penny Andrews 46:11
228 Andy Cottrell 47:04
229 Wendy Parker 47:06
256 Eamon Kennedy 49:13
277 Elaine Palmer 51:15
285 Suzanne Baldwin 52:19
286 Jim Anderson 52:20
296 Mary Sullivan 53:59
297 Tom Sullivan 53:59
312 Jo Cummings 57:24
318 Richard Rose 58:42

Parkrun Results 11th May

11 Peter MOOR 19:51
12 Rosanna ANDREWS 19:54
13 Mark KENNEDY 19:56
41 Darren SMITH 22:17
60 Andy COTTRELL 23:33
62 Eamon KENNEDY 23:49
66 Tony KENNEDY 24:06
121 Richard ROSE 28:43
171 Tom SULLIVAN 37:34

Silverstone GP

Twenty-four Northampton Road Runners completed the ever popular Silverstone 10K.  The opening race of the East Midlands Grand Prix Series is now in its 30th year and the two lap track offers excellent PB potential.

First home and first PB was Matt Brand in 39:25.  Rosanna Andrews was first F20 in 40:41 only three seconds ahead of Stuart Drummond in 40:44.  Pete Moor and Mark Kennedy enjoyed a similar battle two last year's race, overtaking each other at exactly the same points.  Pete was the victor again in 41:05 with Mark in 41:12 (both grabbed PBs too). Carrick Baldwin enjoyed a great time of 41:55 and Ronnie Ambrose finished in 42:19 with Jim McGowan close behind in 42:29.

Roger Taylor also grabbed a PB in 44:43 and Darren Baldwin recovered from Sunday's Tough Mudder in 44:40.  Charlotte Yarker coasted round the circuit in 46:05 and Rebecca Hollowell finished in 47:36.  Wendy Parker smashed three minutes off her PB with 47:58 and Darren Byfield also joined the PB club in 48:16.  Tony Kennedy enjoyed a great run in 48:31 and Penny Andrews crossed the line exactly the same time as Eamon Kennedy in 49:07 with Jo Lee seconds behind in 49:15.

Nigel Osbourne completed his first race for over 18 months in 50:55 and Glen Cousner managed to knock over seven minutes of his best in 53:10. Jim Anderson enjoyed a good run in 53:20 and Suzanne Baldwin, also recovered from the Tough Mudder to finish in 55:05.  Colin Bricher was pleased to break 60 minutes in 56:54 and Richard Rose returned from injury to finish in 61:05.


113 Matt Brand 39:25 
157 Rosanna Andrews 40:41 - 1st F20
162 Stuart Drummond 40:44
177 Peter Moor 41:05 
183 Mark Kennedy 41:12 
211 Carrick Baldwin 41:55 
224 Ronnie Ambrose 42:19 
235 Jim McGowan 42:29 
332 Roger Taylor 44:43
340 Darren Baldwin 44:40
411 Charlotte Yarker FS 46:05
485 Rebecca Hollowell 47:36
497 Wendy Parker 47:58
513 Darren Byfield 48:16
532 Tony Kennedy48:31
556 Penny Andrews 49:07
570 Eamon Kennedy 49:07
571 Jo Lee 49:15
650 Nigel Osbourne 50:55
728 Glen Cousner 53:10
743 James Anderson 53:20
798 Suzanne Baldwin 55:05
847 Colin Bricher 56:54
944 Richard Rose 61:05

Mum v Son

It was the Mum v. Son 10k challenge on Sunday in rural Oxfordshire.   Jocelyn was beaten by son Adam who came home in a fantastic time of 46:15 and Jocelyn finished in 51:10.

Parkrun 1st Anniversary

A good turn out for the 1st anniversary of the Parkrun was well attended by NRR members.

A huge well done to Pete Moor for taking the male points total 1st prize.

Well done to all the organisers and volunteers from NRR and other clubs who made this event happen and it continues to go from strength to strength.  A record 224 Parkrunners ran this special event.

13 Peter MOOR 19:35
14 Mark GARRETT 19:38
38 Mark KENNEDY 22:01 - Tiger for the day
54 Charlotte YARKER 22:49
64 Eamon KENNEDY 23:11
68 Andy COTTRELL 23:15
74 Darren SMITH 23:27
78 Tony KENNEDY 23:36
81 Wendy PARKER 23:43
82 Ronnie AMBROSE 23:44
101 Jo LEE 24:57
113 Mary SULLIVAN 26:04
114 Tom SULLIVAN 26:05
160 Richard ROSE 29:16
211 Glen COUSNER 34:24 - The Marshmellow Man

Shakespeare Marathon Festival

A week on from the biggie at London, four Northampton Road Runners took on the quieter countryside leading out from the beautiful Stratford Upon Avon.  After a lap of the town centre, the route headed through villages and Warwickshire countryside.  The marathon distance was simply two laps of the half version.

Ronnie Ambrose maintained a great pace throughout the race and crossed the line in 3:49:12.  After completing the Paris Marathon three weeks prior, Mark Kennedy (4:03:49 - only seconds difference in time from Paris) and Mary Sullivan (4:41:14) decided on a second marathon distance in April and were pleased with their efforts. 

Tom Sullivan completed the half marathon distance in a pleasing 2:16:03 following an injury in the build up to Paris.

Marathon
247 Ronnie Ambrose 3:49:12
378 Mark Kennedy 4:03:49
619 Mary Sullivan 4:41:14

Half Marathon
1615 Tom Sullivan 2:16:03

Parkrun, Event 51 - 27/04/2013.

199 runners completed the Parkrun (201 if you include the ones who didn't take a barcode).  Next week's will be the 1 year anniversary, come along and let's see if we can help break record numbers.

50 Martin ANDREWS 22:37
68 Eamon KENNEDY 24:00
74 Tony KENNEDY 24:20
106 Elaine PALMER 26:00

London Marathon

There is always something special about the biggest marathon in the country and sixteen Northampton Road Runners made the trip to the capital to line up with 37,000 others.

Amongst the excitement of the carnival atmosphere, there were some PBs and marathon debuts as well as those raising thousands of pounds for charity.

Tony Letts was the first home for the club in an impressive 3:01:01 and London regular Andy Blaize was close in his footsteps in 3:02:25

Fund raiser Matt Brand grabbed a PB with a 3:19:07 and Gary McDaniels recovered well from a recent injury to cross the line in 3:22:26.

Another PB star was John Fleming who beat last year’s time by ten minutes to finish in 3:35:48. New member Ben Mullaney made his London debut with a great follow up to last year’s Rome Marathon with a time of 3:50:12.

Jocelyn Granger raised much needed funds for local charity The Lowdown and finished in a PB time of 4:06:16. Jocelyn was seconds ahead of Wendy Parker who also registered a PB of 4:06:44. Rob Donovan finished in 4:12:13 only minutes ahead of Michael Franks who completed his first ever marathon in 4:17:06.

Pauline Horne is a regular on the London course and finished in 5:00:37 ahead of fund raiser Dave Solomon in 5:15:59. Glen Cousner, another marathon distance debutant finished in 5:22:45 and raised well over £3,000 for charity. Sue Thompson finished in 5:31:30 followed by the two fancy dress entrants from NRR, Patrick “Spike” Breydin 6:35:30 and Alan Hackett 7:25:02

Tony Letts 3:01:01
Andy Blaize 3:02:25
Matt Brand 3:19:07
Gary McDaniels 3:22:26
John Fleming 3:35:48
Ben Mullaney 3:50:12
Jocelyn Granger 4:06:16
Wendy Parker 4:06:44
Rob Donovan 4:12:13
Michael Franks 4:17:06
Pauline Horne 5:00:37
Dave Solomon 5:15:59
Glen Cousner 5:22:45
Sue Thompson 5:31:30
Spike Breydin 6:35:30
Alan Hackett 7:25:02

Duston Triathlon

Jo Lee was 4th in her age category with an outstanding effort at the Duston Triathlon, well done Jo.

Also congratulations to Adrian Tuck who finished in 1:10 and Roger Taylor in 1:15.

Jo Lee - 4th in age category

137 Adrian Tuck 1:10

238 Roger Taylor 1:15

Results for Northampton Parkrun Event 50 - 20/04/2013.

15 Peter MOOR 20:19
16 Mark KENNEDY 20:25 
43 Charlotte YARKER 22:16
46 Darren SMITH 22:27
65 Eamon KENNEDY 23:48
88 Elaine PALMER 25:45
146 Simone Lucy SMITH 31:44

Parkrun Results 13/4

Results for Northampton parkrun, event number 49

10 Peter MOOR 19:58
26 Mark KENNEDY 21:35 
39 Charlotte YARKER 23:00
42 Andrew COTRELL 23:17
50 Eamon KENNEDY 24:05
74 Mark GARRETT 26:32
128 Simone SMITH 33:03

Results for Graves parkrun, 

8 Sam BROWN 21:07

Stanwick 10k

Colin Bricher headed to Stanwick to take part in the Stanwick 10k on Easter Monday.

With temperatures low even for a winter race, Bricker did not treat this as a serious race effort, especially as he was still recovering from a recent illness and a bike accident.

Nevertheless he ran well to finish in 56:54 for fifth V60 finisher.

Paris Marathon

Six Northampton Road Runners made the Eurostar trip to Paris for the Marathon event on 7th April.  The beautiful route takes in the sights including Champs Elysees, Louvre, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tour (of course) as well as two huge parks before finishing in front of Arc De Triomphe.

Mark GARRETT enjoyed a storming run finishing in 3:21:41 and Mark KENNEDY clocked a marathon PB in 4:03:39.  Mick CLARKE crossed the line in 4:31:03 just ahead of Mary SULLIVAN in 4:37:49.  Jim ANDERSON enjoyed a time of 4:46:29 and star of the day was Sally GARRETT, completing her first ever marathon in 5:49:07.

4184th Mark GARRETT 3:21:41
18423th Mark KENNEDY 4:03:39 
27790th Mick CLARKE 4:31:03
29531th Mary SULLIVAN 4:37:49
31576th Jim ANDERSON 4:46:29
37953th Sally GARRETT 5:49:07 

The NRR trip was completed the following day when the super six plus supporters Tom Sulli and Jules Kennedy climbed the Eiffel Tour.  The NRR banner was confiscated and maybe to never be seen again.  Mick wooed the locals with his dodgy French accent and Jim fitted into the Parisian style with his beret.

Northampton Parkrun Event 48 - 06/04/2013.

8 Matt BRAND 19:14
12 Peter MOOR 20:03
28 Jim MCGOWAN 21:31
53 Eamon KENNEDY 23:43
81 Jackie DALTON 26:33

Warwick Half Marathon

On a wet day of 17th March, Wayne Evans completed the Warwick Half Marathon in 2:10.  Well done to Wayne.

Battlefield Run

Six NRR men went to battle at the Nasby Battlefield Run.  Springtime snow covered the course as runners braved two distances.  Completing the half marathon distance was Tony Letts who was first senior male in 1:26:47.  Stuart Drummond had a great run in 1:29:35 and Matt Brand was close behind in 1:30:55.  Eamon Kennedy finished in 1:53:35.

Two warriors took on the 10K challenge, Darren Byfield in 50:27 and Tony Kennedy in 51:57.

Half Marathon
119 Stuart Drummond 1:29:35
108 Matt Brand 1:30:55
145 Tony Letts 1:26:47
144 Eamon Kennedy 1:53:35

10k
Darren Byfield 50:27
81 Tony Kennedy 51:57

The Ashby 20 In The Snow

The Ashby 20 is a traditional pre-marathon training 20 miler which usually happens in spring sunshine.  This year however, the 1,000 strong field endured a snowfall throughout most of the event.

Andy Blaize was the first home for NRR in 2:12:36 and Gary McDaniels enjoyed a good time of 2:17:04.  Mark Nightingale continued his good marathon training progress with a 2:20:39 finish and Mark Garrett scored a PB with 2:24:58.  John Fleming completed his first road 20 miler in 2:30:40 and Penny Andrews returned from injury to finish in 2:43:10.  Lynton Dawson was next to cross the line in 2:44:20 just ahead of Mark Kennedy who grabbed his second PB of March in 2:45:48.  Ben Mullaney made his NRR debut in 3:01:04

57 Andy Blaize 2:12:36
96 Gary McDaniels 2:17:04
132 Mark Nightingale 2:20:39
174 Mark Garrett 2:24:58
230 John Fleming 2:30:40
374 Penny Andrews 2:43:10
399 Lynton Dawson 2:44:20
413 Mark Kennedy 2:45:48 PB
644 Ben Mullaney 3:01:04

Parkrun 45 - 16/03/2013

Well done to Jo who was first lady at Parkrun 45.

 7 Peter MOOR 20:20
40 Jo LEE 24:10

The Grizzly

Every year a few thousand runners arrive at the Devon coast to take on the challenge of the iconic Grizzly, a 20 (ish) mile challenge.  The route starts on the promenade which is the only flat part of the race, the rest is up and down cliffs, along shingle beaches, through forests, streams and muddy bogs.  The recent wet weather added an extra challenge as some of the descents were near on impossible to keep your footing.

Eight Northampton Road Runners made the long trip, some making their debut into the unknown and some coming back for more punishment.  The event was aptly named, "Grime and Punishment."

Matt Brand made his Grizzly debut and was 229th in a time of 2:29.  Martin Andrews recorded a great time in 3:38 and Steve Prior was pleased to break four hours in 3:50.

The remaining five were returning for for more fun and Jocelyn Granger finished in 4:00 just ahead of Mark Kennedy in 4:02 who took a few tumbles on the route.  Wendy Parker managed to free herself from the Bog of Doom to finish 4:20, the same time as Ronnie Ambrose.  Jim Anderson completed the line up of NRR crazies in 4:34.

229 Matt Brand 2:29
324 Martin Andrews 3:38
476 Steve Prior 3:50
620 Jocelyn Granger 4:00
655 Mark Kennedy 4:02
859 Wendy Parker 4:20
860 Ronnie Ambrose 4:20
1013 Jim Anderson 4:34

Milton Keynes Half

Two Northampton Road Runners completed the Milton Keynes Half Marathon on Sunday 10th March.  Mark Nightingale completed the relatively flat course in 1:26:31 and Eamonn Kennedy 1:52:25

Mark Nightingale 1:26:31
Eamonn Kennedy 1:52:25

Parkrun Event - 09/03/2013

9 Gary MCDANIELS 19:51
10 Peter MOOR 20:01
62 Elaine PALMER 25:36
134 Simone SMITH 32:46

Silverstone Half

Six petrol heads went for the flat half option of the Silverstone Half to race the iconic circuit.  Beckie Hollowell completed her frst ever half marathon in an impressive 1:49:50.  There were three PBs to report on the fast track on the day, Micheal Franks 1:51:59, Paula Pinney 2:02:46 and Glen Cousner 2:04:51 were all smiles at the end.  Dave Soloman 2:01:52 and Pauline Horne 2:09:05 also took the chequered flag.

Beckie Hollowell 1:49:50 - First ever half marathon
Micheal Franks 1:51:59 - PB
Dave Soloman 2:01:52
Paula Pinney 2:02:46 - PB
Glen Cousner 2:04:51 - PB
Pauline Horne 2:09:05

Berkhamsted Half

Ten Northampton Road Runners made the short trip down the M1 to the beautiful Berkhamsted Half event now in its 31st year.  The course takes in three challenging climbs but finishes with a fast downhill final mile.  The route cuts through picturesque villages and the Ashridge Estate.

On the course, Mark Kennedy finished strongly to knock a minute of his half marathon PB in 1:33:17.  Terry Begley was close behind in1:35:13 and Mark Garrett, still recovering from the 26 miles of the Belvior Challenge crossed the line in 1:39:14.  Peter Moor recovered from a quick Parkrun the previous day to finish in 1:39:54.

Roger Taylor was delighted with a 1:42:18 finish and Jocelyn Granger knocked over three minutes off her PB in 1:47:44.  Rob Donovan finished in 1:48:49 and Tom Sullivan enjoyed a good run in 1:52:22.  Mary Sullivan was close behind in 1:58:15 and Sally Garrett has become a new fan of the half distance completing her third in just over a month 2:44:27
  132 Mark Kennedy 1:33:17 PB
159 Terry Begley 1:35:13
213 Mark Garrett 1:39:14
236 Peter Moor 1:39:54
275 Roger Taylor 1:42:18
416 Jocelyn Granger 1:47:44 PB
441 Rob Donovan 1:48:49
537 Tom Sullivan 1:52:22
684 Mary Sullivan 1:58:15
993 Sally Garrett 2:44:27 PB

NRR Parkrun Day - 2nd March

Northampton Road Runners decended on the first Parkrun event of March to help run the show.  Around twenty members volunteered to marshal at various points around the course and fifteen more ran.

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported Parkrun.

3 Danson NJOKA 17:02
7 Tony LETTS 18:05
9 Andy BLAIZE 18:41
16 Sam BROWN 19:22 
19 Pete MOOR 19:49
23 Martin ANDREWS 20:15 - PB
35 Steve PRIOR 21:21
47 Darren SMITH 22:40
57 Eamon KENNEDY 23:33
58 Tony KENNEDY 23:48 - PB
66 Andrew PATE 24:28
70 Jon DILWORTH 24:52
78 Elaine PALMER 25:26
86 Mick CLARKE 26:28
139 Simone SMITH 33:31

Photos can be found here

A Beastly Weekend

Road Runners by name and Off Road Runners by nature.  Matt Brand completed the Baldock Beast Half Marathon on Sunday in 29th place with a time of 1:29:53 grabbing a PB by over 6 mins!!!.  Well done Matt!

The Belvior Challenge

There's the moment when you get out of the car and, as the cold wind whips around your body, you ask yourself, "Why am I doing this?"

You make your way to the village hall and collect your registration slip whilst bantering with your mates about the challenge that lays in wait.  Across the room you notice another club vest and a huge smile from another club mate as you collect your number from a friendly volunteer who wishes you luck.  More banter and conversations follow as you make your way back into the cool breeze and to the start line awaiting the start.

The gun goes (well the starter shouts go...) and the event is away.  Runners, walkers, novices and experienced troops make their way through the village who have come out in support, cheering frantically as the crowd snakes through.  Half a mile later and the tarmac is swapped for an uneven muddy track which then opens out to fields and more mud.  At miles three is the first of many styles to climb, the other side is an electric fence to contend with before a gentle gruelling climb to the top of a hill.  Then more fields, more mud and more styles...  Banter continues between runners and walkers and messages of admiration fly in from casual strollers our for a Saturday morning walk.  Cakes and cuppa stops are on the route and a few hours after starting, the muddied participants finish in the village hall to collect a well earned bowl of soup and cake.  Stories are exchanged, laughter is heard and pats on the back are dished out.

That is why we do it!!!

Martin Andrews is on fire at the moment and, sporting his short sleeved t-shirt, he smashed the two hour barrier in 1:59:42.  Mark Kennedy was next home in 2:18:19 just ahead of Ronnie Ambrose in 2:18:36.  Wendy Parker enjoyed a good run in 2:41:41 and Jim Anderson had plenty of stories to tell after arriving in 2:46:15.  Charlotte Yarker had an eventful run and even with a couple of stops, finished in 2:47:37, her longest run to date.  Old campaigner Mick Clarke opted for the 15 mile version instead of 26 this year(3:00:59) and the star of the day was Sally Garrett.  Sally completed her first half a couple of weeks ago and her never say never attitude got her round her biggest ever run in 3:55:06.  20 miles next Sally??

The other mega-star was Mark Garrett who went for t 4:29:49

25 Martin Andrews 1:59:42
88 Mark Kennedy 2:18:19
90 Ronnie Ambrose 2:18:36
195 Wendy Parker 2:41:41
224 James Anderson 2:46:15
225 Charlotte Yarker 2:47:37
287 Mick Clarke 3:00:59
431 Sally Garrett 3:55:06
519 Mark Garrett 4:29:49

Parkrun Event 42 - 23/02/2013.

4 Tony LETTS 18:29
18 Peter MOOR 20:25
40 Rebecca HOLLOWELL 22:43
45 Darren SMITH 23:13
54 Tony KENNEDY 24:02
56 Eamon KENNEDY 24:07
135 Simone SMITH 32:38

Results for Northampton Parkrun Event 41 - 16/02/2013

17 Peter MOOR 19:48
26 Matt BRAND 21:09
62 Eamon KENNEDY 23:54
64 Tony KENNEDY 24:18
68 Jo LEE 24:34
86 Mick CLARKE 26:13
149 Simone SMITH 33:19

The Real Deal

Well done to Sally Garrett for completing the Real Deal, her first ever half marathon in a wind-swept Kent.

65 Mark Garrett 1:36:38
386 Sally Garrett 2:39:22 1st Half Marathon

Folksworth 15

Eight NRRs headed off in search of the hills at the Folkswoth 15. The two lap course was relatively flat with the exception of three challenging hills which you only wanted to see once and not twice. The runners battled rain, cold temperatures and a challenging head wind to complete the course.

First to cross the line was Martin Andrews in a time of 1.50.55, followed by Steve Prior in 156.09 and Peter Moor to complete a trio of runners to break the 2 hour mark in a time of 156.36. Next to cross the line was Darren Baldwin in 2.10.52 followed by James Anderson in 2.16.53 next was Jo Smith in 2.20.10. Completing the line-up was Mick Clark 2.23.15 and Suzanne Baldwin 2.29.49.

Folksworth 15 was a friendly club organised run that is worth adding to your 2014 race calendar.

87th Martin Andrews – 1.50.55
134th Steve Prior – 156.09
141st Pete Moor – 156.36
236th Darren Baldwin – 2.10.52
286th James Anderson – 2.16.53
298th Jo Smith – 2.20.10
320th Mick Clark – 2.23.15
340th Suzanne Baldwin – 2.29.49

Northampton Parkrun, number 40, 09/02/2013.

Well Done Beckie
The first lady completing the course was Rebecca HOLLOWELL (F) (Northampton Road Runners) in a time of 00:22:18.

The following club members participated:
7 Sam BROWN 19:15
8 Peter MOOR 19:43 - well done Pete, great time and a PB
12 Mark KENNEDY 20:33
14 Matt BRAND 20:45
37 Rebecca HOLLOWELL 22:18 - first lady55 Eamon KENNEDY 24:18
61 Jo LEE 25:00
64 Elaine PALMER 25:18
128 Claire SPOKES 34:34
143 Simone SMITH 40:26

Northampton Mud Skippers Sun 3rd Feb

Another Cross-Country season came to a close at Delapre Park.

This season’s races have been the wettest and muddiest ever and a change of name for the club should be considered - Northampton Off Road Runners!

Over the season 46 club members have participated in the league which is a great turnout. Many have been new faces which has been nice to see.

At Delapre 29 of us mustered in a chill wind on the start knowing we were in for muddy slog.

We were not disappointed as the course ranged from very wet, to muddy, to bogging and staying upright was an effort in itself.

A special mention goes to Chris Lamb who picked up a trophy finishing as 2nd runner overall for the series a fantastic effort.

We had 8 stars who ran every race, Sally Garrett, Beckie Hollowell, Dave Blackburn, John Fleming, Jon Dilworth, Jon Panter, Chris Lamb and Mark Garrett, well done all.

So that is that for another year. The next XC season will start in October but for all those who like the off-road races there are plenty out there where you can get nice and dirty.

There are some great photos on the website gallery and everyone is smiling.

http://www.northamptonroadrunners.co.uk/gallery.html

6 Chris Lamb
21 Tony Letts
68 Stuart Drummond
72 Sam Brown
122 Mark Garrett
128 Peter Moor
144 John Fleming
145 Jim McGowan
177 Darren Baldwin
182 Roger Taylor
195 Jon Panter
206 Tony Powell
207 Beckie Hollowell
234 Charlotte Yarker
238 Dave Blackburn
250 Tom Sullivan
256 Jim Anderson
257 Michael Franks
266 Glen Cousner
279 Jon Dilworth
283 Suzanne Baldwin
285 Paul Braddock
293 Jo Smith
302 Mary Sullivan
305 Elaine Palmer
327 Jags Rattu
339 Helen Blackburn
346 Katherine White
349 Sally Garrett 

Watford Half

Whilst others were sloggin it out in the mud, Rosanne Andrews (1:28:01) and Andy Blaize (1:30:54) opted for the Watford Half and finished in impressive times.

 

Rosanne Andrews 1:28:01

Andy Blaize 1:30:54

Charnwood Hills

The Charwood Hills Fell Race is organised by Bowline Climbing Club which must mean one thing...climbing!  The 14 mile off road course includes four beautiful country parks in Leicestershire offering stunning views from the top.  Following the snow and rain, the course was muddy, so muddy in places it was barely possible to even walk, let alone run.

Seven Northampton Road Runners took on the challenge and Martin ANDREWS decided to ignore his team mates' advice of taking it easy and enjoying the views, he flashed around in an impressive 2:02:46.  Steve PRIOR also enjoyed a good run in 2:11:26.  Mark KENNEDY survived a few stumbles on the way round to finish in 2:19:43 and Jocelyn GRANGER crossed the line in 2:23:57.

268 Wendy PARKER and Ronnie AMBROSE finished together in 2:30:13 and Mick CLARKE completed the line up in 3:00:31.
97 Martin ANDREWS 2:02:46
168 Steve PRIOR 2:11:26
217 Mark KENNEDY 2:19:43
240 Jocelyn GRANGER 2:23:57
268 Wendy PARKER 2:30:13
269 Ronnie AMBROSE 2:30:13
357 Mick CLARKE 3:00:31

Parkrun number 39 - 02/02/2013.

12 Peter MOOR 20:10
40 Matt BRAND 23:04
52 Andrew PATE 24:43
67 Mick CLARKE 26:19
68 Elaine PALMER 26:23

57th Eric Humphries XC in the Snow

On a snowy Wednesday afternoon, seven Northampton Road Runners completed the three lap Delapre course arranged by Northants Police.

Tony Letts was 13th overall in 46.00 flat and Rosanna Andrews was 3rd Senior Lady in 50.18.  Mark Kennedy was next to finish in 53.04 ahead of Penny Andrews in 56.06 and Ronnie Ambrose in 58.49

Jim Anderson finished in 64.09 and Elaine Palmer in 69.19.

Northampton Road Runners were 6th team overall. (13th 30th 35th 41st) - 119pts

13 Tony Letts 46.00
30 Rosanna Andrews 50.18 3rd Senior Lady
35 Mark Kennedy 53.04
41 Penny Andrews 56.06
51 Ronnie Ambrose 58.49
62 Jim Anderson 64.09
68 Elaine Palmer 69.19

Team Results
6th Northampton RR (13th 30th 35th 41st) - 119pts

Irchester 15K In The Snow

With lots of events being called off with a blanket of snow sweeping across the Midlands, Just Racing defied the forecasts and got the Irchester Multi-Terrain Round one on. 

Four Northampton Road Runners chose the 15K option which comprises of three laps around the beautiful country park.  The route is mixed terrain between paths, grass and muddy trails but it was all snow on this occasion.

Mark Kennedy was first home for the club in 1:08:35 John Flemming, who made a late dash for the start, was close behind in 1:09:12.  Martin Andrews enjoyed a good run with a time of 1:09:45 and Penny Andrews was the ladies' rep finishing in 1:14:18.

Well done also to all who braved the conditions for training runs over the weekend too.

35 Mark Kennedy 1:08:35
38 John Flemming 1:09:12
41 Martin Andrews 1:09:45
60 Penny Andrews 1:14:18

Northampton Parkrun number 38, 12/01/2013.

Northampton Parkrun number 38, 12/01/2013.

A record 205 participants completed Parkrun 38, well done the NRR Members who went for it.

15 Stuart DRUMMOND 19:16
25 Peter MOOR 19:58
29 Matt BRAND 20:26
31 Mark Alan KENNEDY 21:02
35 Ronnie AMBROSE 21:30
57 Rebecca HOLLOWELL 22:38
64 Paul BRADDOCK 23:06
96 Wendy PARKER 25:05
110 Elaine PALMER 26:08

Northampton parkrun, event 37, 05/01/2013.

Results for Northampton parkrun, event number 37, 05/01/2013.

Well done Pete!!

11 Peter MOOR 19:59
15 Mark KENNEDY 20:46
32 Martin ANDREWS 22:30
36 Rebecca HOLLOWELL 22:38
53 Tom SULLIVAN 24:09
80 Elaine PALMER 26:33
81 Mary SULLIVAN 26:33
87 Paula PINNEY 27:15
140 Simone SMITH 34:30

Northampton and Manchester Parkrun - 29/12/2012

Results for Northampton parkrun, event number 36, 29/12/2012.
23 Peter MOOR 21:37
33 Martin ANDREWS 23:14
37 Rebecca HOLLOWELL 23:22
73 Elaine PALMER 27:12

Results for South Manchester parkrun, event number 150, 29/12/2012.
13 Mark KENNEDY 21:32

Northampton parkrun, event number 35, 25/12/2012.

106 participants completed the run today on Christmas Day with a club turnout from the club both running, supporting and marhsalling.

The following club members participated:
14 Mark KENNEDY 20:22 - Parkrun PB
21 Martin ANDREWS 21:45
23 Peter MOOR 21:37
33 Martin ANDREWS 23:14
37 Rebecca HOLLOWELL 23:22
63 Mark GARRETT 25:23
73 Elaine PALMER 27:12

 

Northampton parkrun, event number 34, 22/12/2012.

100 participants completed the 34th Parkrun on 22nd December.

15 Peter MOOR 20:18
17 Mark KENNEDY 20:35
43 Jo LEE 24:28
44 Paul BRADDOCK 24:30
98 Paula PINNEY 36:57