Friday, 13 September 2013

Jasmine Completed The Dunstable Cahllenge

Jasmine Banks completed the 20 mile Dunstable Challenge on Sunday 8th September.  A tough route which involves self navigation off road.  Well done Jasmine on completing the course in 3:58:32

Northampton Parkrun 70 - 07/09/2013.

247 participants completed the run today

30 Peter MOOR 20:00
32 Mark KENNEDY 20:24
40 Mark ROSE 20:46
73 Martin ANDREWS 22:26
109 Sarah JONES 24:22
110 James ANDERSON 24:23
150 Jo LEE 26:40
177 Jon DILWORTH 28:38

Monday, 9 September 2013

Alice, Alice...who is Alice?

Mark and Sally Garrett travelled up North to find some more proper hills.  They completed the Alice's Run 10K Multi-Terrain, Mytholmroyd, Yorkshire. 

Mark finished in 37th place in 47:31 and sally was 175th in 80:09.

Monday, 2 September 2013

Moulton 10K Report


Northampton Road Runners Moulton 10k Sun 25th Aug

260 runners descended on Moulton for Northampton Road Runners 2013 Moulton 10k on Sun Aug 25th.

The field included runners from as far apart as Scotland and Devon. Ideal conditions failed to make this race which is possibly the toughest 10k course in this area any easier and all of the runners knew that they had been in a hard race.

Only 9 seconds separated the 1st 3 runners to finish with Northampton based MKAC runner Matt Clarke winning in 35-10 only just ahead of Wootton Road Runners Matthew Howes and Dan Siddons from Serpentine, London.

Local star Rachel Cave was 1st lady home in 39-21 followed by Cambridge runner Katie Sherwood and host club Northampton Road Runners star junior Rosanna Andrews.

It was good to see the best number of junior (15-19) athletes competing we have ever had and Matt Tyler of Team Balancise and Jade Watson from Peterborough collected the trophies in this category.

Rushden based Team Balancise won the Team Award and Glenn Morris won the award for the 1st resident of Moulton or Pitsford, the villages through which the race runs.

These events however are not just about the trophy winners and throughout the field runners of all ages and abilities were breaking PBs, setting goals and giving their all helping to make the event another great success.

 

The Beast

The Beast is another race that regularly appears on the NRR race calendar and a trio made the trip to Dorset to attempt to tame the aptly named course.

Starting at Corfe Castle, the half marathon route takes a loop around the top of the picturesque village with a huge downhill then climb within the first mile.  Runners then head towards the coast but not before another climb up a rocky trail through dense woodland lasting from mile three to mile five.  The views are worth it as Corfe Castle is seem below the fields at the top of the ascent.

After a huge downhill stretch, the first mini climb up beach steps leads to a beautiful view over the sea from the cliffs along a coastal path.  After another climb comes the biggest challenge, a 200ft drop downs steps to sea level before climbing up the other side, impossible to run it.

The route then heads back to Corfe with more climbs, more woodlands trails, more dense undergrowth and a few styles to hop over before a great welcome in front of the castle ruins.

Mark Kennedy was first home for the club in a time of 1:51:08 and Ronnie Ambrose soldiered around carrying an injury finishing in 2:11:29.  Wendy Parker was close behind in 2:11:33.  NRR friend and old member Alan Burgess also finished in 2:00:46.
 

115 Mark Kennedy 1:51:08
177 Alan Burgess 2:00:46
249 Ronnie Ambrose 2:11:29
250 Wendy Parker 2:11:33

Results for Northampton Parkrun 69 - 31/08/2013

Results for Northampton Parkrun 69 - 31/08/2013
 221 participants completed the run today.

18 Peter MOOR 19:58
26 Gary MCDANIELS 20:44
66 Sarah JONES 23:31
123 Mick CLARKE 26:57
134 Jo LEE 27:30
153 Jon DILWORTH 29:17
191 Simone SMITH 33:37

More Race Feedback

Hi

I came from London last weekend to take part in the Northampton 10k and wanted to say how much I enjoyed the event. It was a brilliantly organised day, the marshals were fabulous, and the post race home made flapjacks were far superior to any goody bag that get handed out at some of the bigger events. It was a pleasure to take part in a small local event, made even more enjoyable by the fact I raced a PB. 

My only complaint is that there were no small t-shirts left when I crossed the finish line.

Thanks to all the organisers for a great day.

Many thanks,
Rebecca


**********************************************************

Hi Mark

I just wanted to say thanks for Sunday. It was the first organised run in which I have participated and it was a great experience. The whole event was superbly well organised. The marshals did their job superbly and were very encouraging too. I really felt as though I was a part of a special day. My 3 year old daughter loved the flapjack and I am really pleased with my commemorative vest.

Race wise, it was so tough. After 6k I was on course to break by 50 minute target time, but the last 4k was torture, especially the Spectacle Lane hill. Still, it has given me a benchmark, and one which I will aim to improve upon next year.

I will be recommending this race to other runners that I know.

Many thanks

Nick

**********************************************************

Hi Mark,

Thanks for the quick reply and for updating the results sheet. The 3 of us who travelled down from South Derbyshire all really enjoyed the race, well organised and a pleasure to run. The ford is a unique feature, not had one in a race before. I’ll keep an eye out for the pictures.

Cheers,
Paul

Friday, 30 August 2013

Moulton 10K - Thank You

Thank you to everyone who helped make our race on Sunday another great success.
We had an entry of 289 and 261 runners competed on the day. We had lots of positive comments from runners and supporters saying that they had enjoyed their day with us and that we put on a great race.
Unfortunately a couple of motorists were abusive to some of the marshals on Pitsford Road so if it was you I am sorry, it shouldn't happen, but there is not much we can do I'm afraid.
Results are on the website and photos of the event (NOT JUST RUNNERS) will soon be available to look at.
Thanks again to everyone involved
Mark Garrett

A couple of emails received...

**********************************************************

Hi Mark

I just wanted to say thanks for Sunday. It was the first organised run in which I have participated and it was a great experience. The whole event was superbly well organised. The marshals did their job superbly and were very encouraging too. I really felt as though I was a part of a special day. My 3 year old daughter loved the flapjack and I am really pleased with my commemorative vest.

Race wise, it was so tough. After 6k I was on course to break by 50 minute target time, but the last 4k was torture, especially the Spectacle Lane hill. Still, it has given me a benchmark, and one which I will aim to improve upon next year.

I will be recommending this race to other runners that I know.

Many thanks

Nick

**********************************************************

Hi Mark,

Thanks for the quick reply and for updating the results sheet. The 3 of us who travelled down from South Derbyshire all really enjoyed the race, well organised and a pleasure to run. The ford is a unique feature, not had one in a race before. I’ll keep an eye out for the pictures.

Cheers,
Paul

Results for Northampton Parkrun 68 - 24/08/2013.

18 Mark GARRETT 20:20
48 Mark KENNEDY 22:59 - missed the start haha
55 Martin ANDREWS 23:25
67 Paul BRADDOCK 23:45
89 Glen COUSNER 25:25
123 Mick CLARKE 27:46
168 Simone SMITH 33:33

Saturday, 24 August 2013

Race The Choo Choo

Ronnie Ambrose and Wendy Parker completed Race The Train in North Wales on Saturday 17th August in 2:16:22.

Wendy Parker 2:16:22
Ronnie Ambrose 2:16:22

Thursday, 22 August 2013

NRR 10K Fun Time Trial

Well done to everyone who took part in the club night fun 10K on Wednesday 21st August.  The route was as close to our 10K route as possible and measured bang on the distance (on my Garmin - 6.23 miles), well done to Mark G for the estimate, for putting signs out for us and timing everyone.  Here are the scores on the doors...

Simeon Hawson 40:37
Ben Malia 40:40
Pete Moor 42:11
Stu Drummond 42:43
Mark Kennedy 42:48
Paul Smith 44:23
Darren Baldwin 44:51
Mark Rose 46:25
Roger Taylor 47:17
Andy Glenn 48:29
Steve Prior 48:29
Martin Andrews 48:58
John Panter 49:01
Eamonn Kennedy 49:51
Andy Cotterell 50:40
Sarah James 50:56
Dave Blackburn 51:30
Jim Anderson 53:21
Caroline Powell 54:04
Paul Braddock 54:10
Suzanne Baldwin 54:43
Avtar Kaur 55:12
Elaine Palmer 57:37
Jo Smith 57:37
Paula Pinney 61:29
Dave Solloman 62:15
Mary Sullivan 64:16
Tom Sullivan 64:16
Keren Irving 72:40
Helen Blackburn 72:40
Sally Garrett 76:10
Alan Hackett 83:00

Kimbolton Half

Half a dozen NRR members completed the first ever Kimbolton Half, all breaking the two hour barrier too.  Andy Blaize was first home for the club in 1:26:28 and Rosanna Andrews was hot on his heels in 1:27:06.  Roger Taylor enjoyed a good run in 1:42:03, with Penny Andrews finishing in 1:44:22 and Eamon Kennedy in 1:49:11.  Paul Braddock completed his first ever half in 1:59:57.
 

Andy Blaize 1:26:28
Rosanna Andrews 1:27:06 
Roger Taylor 1:42:03

Penny Andrews 1:44:22
Eamon Kennedy 1:49:11 
Paul Braddock 1:59:57

Tuesday, 20 August 2013

Results for Northampton Parkrun 67 - 17/08/2013.

Results for Northampton parkrun, event number 67, 17/08/2013.
21 Peter MOOR 19:50
29 Mark KENNEDY 20:30
31 Mark ROSE 20:33
92 Sarah JONES 24:39
106 Tony KENNEDY 25:03
113 James ANDERSON 25:32

Results for Graves parkrun, event number 70, 17/08/2013.
4 Sam BROWN 20:15
 

Results for Northampton Parkrun 66 - 10/08/2013.

18 Peter MOOR 19:37
39 Mark KENNEDY 21:23
60 Jo LEE 23:09
86 Glen COUSNER 24:23
104 James ANDERSON 25:47

Blisworth Five

32 Rosanna Andrews 19.27
57 Mark Rose 21.10
76 Roger Taylor 22.27
80 Penny Andrews 22.55
89 Eamon Kennedy 23.25
136 Colin Bircher 28.49

Wellingborough Five

18 Tony LETTS 29:41
46 Stuart Drummond 32:22
52 Rosanna Andrews 32:32 - 6th Lady
56 Pete MOOR 33:16
82 Dave WHATTON 34:13
106 Mark ROSE 35:27
125 Penny ANDREWS 36:26
149 Eamon KENNEDY 38:16
161 Sarah JONES 39:05
140 Tony Kennedy 39:31
199 Suzanne Baldwin 42:22
212 Mick BHOGAL 43:13 
216 Mick CLARKE 43:23 
269 Carole WHATTON 49:57

Monday, 22 July 2013

Northampton Parkrun event 63 - 20/07/2013

23 Mark ROSE 20:59
24 Peter MOOR 21:00
57 Eamon KENNEDY 23:09
62 Sarah JONES 23:32
75 Tony KENNEDY 24:27
81 Jo LEE 24:37
91 Andrew PATE 25:12
99 Mick BHOGAL 25:53
112 Mick CLARKE 27:01

Wednesday, 17 July 2013

London 10K

Pete Moor completed the London 10K on Sunday in a brilliant time of 41:34 finishing in the top 100 overall. 

The Adderbury (Ultra)

The Adderbury Run has become a cult fixture on the Northampton Road Runners calendar nowadays and it is much loved for many reasons.  There are two options described by the organisers as, "Mainly off-road and as close as we can get to a Half Marathon."  There is also a, close as we can get to a 10K," and a walk too.  The route takes you off road over stiles and through some picturesque villages offering a few challenges along the way.

Last year's trip took place in the middle of the UK's monsoon season and most of the routes was sodden with muddy puddles but this year's offering couldn't have been further removed, solid underfoot and temperatures soaring around 30 degrees by the finish, this claimed a few runners along the way.  To add to the excitement, the routes measured an extra mile in distance making the half a 14 mile affair.

Andy Blaize was first home for the club in 1:40:24 and Rosanna Andrews claimed a prize for the second lady overall (1:44:22).  Mark Kennedy enjoyed a good run in 1:51:03 and Ronnie Ambrose broke the two hours in 1:57:57.  Close behind and also breaking two hours was Penny Andrews 1:59:56 and Steve Prior followed in 2:04:45.
Darren Baldwin, fresh from his recent off road marathon adventure, finished in a respectable 2:10:07 ahead of Jocelyn Granger 2:23:05 and Mrs Suzanne Baldwin (also an off road marathon adventurer (2:27:28). 

Elaine Palmer was next to finish in 2:28:43 with Mick Clarke 2:32:57, Mary Davies 2:45:35 and Paula Pinney 2:50:04 completing the half challenge.

In the (as close to) 10K option, Wendy Parker finished in 1:02:06 with Mary and Tom Sullivan sharing a time of 01:09:34.  Paige Pinkard and Sally Garrett completed the course in 1:24:54 and 1:25:01 respectively.

Mike Palmer and Jules Kennedy took part in the walk too.

Results for the Adderbury Half Run - close to 14 miles
8 Andy Blaize 01:40:24
9 Rosanna Andrews 01:44:22
16 Mark Kennedy 01:51:03
28 Ronnie Ambrose 01:57:57
30 Penny Andrews 01:59:56
38 Steve Prior 02:04:45
46 Darren Baldwin 02:10:07
74 Jocelyn Granger 02:23:05
79 Suzanne Baldwin 02:27:28
82 Elaine Palmer 02:28:43
87 Mick Clarke 02:32:57
98 Mary Davies 02:45:35
99 Paula Pinney 02:50:04

Results for the Adderbury Ten Run - approx 10 kilometres
21 Wendy Parker 01:02:06
53 Mary Sullivan 01:09:34
54 Tom Sullivan 01:09:35
72 Paige Pinkard 01:24:54
73 Sally Garrett 01:25:01

Results for the Adderbury Half Walk - approx. 14 miles
Mike Palmer

Julie Kennedy

Northampton Parkrun - event number 62


Northampton Parkrun - event number 62

13 Pete MOOR 19:45
35 Darren SMITH 21:50
49 Eamon KENNEDY 23:20
55 David KNOWLES 23:54
77 Andrew PATE 25:40

Watlington 10K Cross Country Hill Run

On Sunday 7th July Tony Letts won the Watlington 10K Cross Country Hill Run in a great time of 42:15 on a challenging course.  Well done Tony.  Jo Cummings also completed the course in 68:10.

1st Tony Letts 42:15
94 Jo Cummings 68:10

Monday, 1 July 2013

North Devon Half and Marathon

Huge congratulations to Darren and Suzanne Baldwin for completing their first ever marathon. 

Most runners go for a big event like London or maybe a local marathon for their first 26.2 but the Baldwins decided on the North Devon Marathon.  Judging by the photos, if you have done the Grizzly or any kind of fell race up and down cliffs, well this looks like something of that nature.  Sheer beauty and sheer pain.

Steve Prior also completed the half marathon distance on the day too, well done to Steve.  He was delighted with the selection of cakes on offer at the end too.

Another great story for NRR travelling the country and running off road again.  Well done all three of you.

Desborough Half Marathon

The Desborough Half Marathon made its debut on the Northamptonshire running calendar on 30th June.  Organisers RAPID - Run Any Pace In Desborough put on a tough event including some challenging hills through a lovely countryside route with plenty of views to admire.

The marshals were friendly and encouraging and the race was well organised with water stops every three miles (including one at the top of the biggest climb at 10-11 miles).  A great goody bag including medal and t-shire was on offer at the end with a smile from volunteers. 

Top cap off a great run, the club's chairman personally congratulated everyone at the finish line and collected feedback to ensure this event becomes a regular annual offering.

Mark Kennedy completed the course in 1:43 and offered the following advice, "Don't have a curry the night before a half marathon!"

Parkrun Event 60 - 29th June

Results for Northampton Parkrun, event number 60, 29/06/2013.

A record 220 participants completed the run today.

7 Andy BLAIZE 18:40
12 Pete MOOR 19:33
21 Mark GARRETT 20:23
39 Darren SMITH 21:41
79 Tony KENNEDY 23:58
Sarah Jones 24-03 PB
98 Elaine PALMER 25:02
102 Mick CLARKE 25:28
159 Simone SMITH 30:28
Paige Pinkard 31-35 PB

Results for Sheffield Hallam parkrun, event number 150, 29/06/2013.

9 Sam BROWN 00:19:04


Tuesday, 25 June 2013

Northampton Parkrun Event 59

Northampton Parkrun  Event 59  - 22nd June results

12 Peter MOOR          19:29
53 Martin ANDREWS 23:26
55 Jo LEE                    23:36

Also congratulations to new member Paige who completed her 1st parkrun on 15/6/13 - 146 Paige PINCKARD 32:37


Colworth Challenge Weekend 21-23 June 2013


Colworth Challenge Weekend 21/22/23rd June 2013 
by Mark G

A record turnout of club members at the Colworth weekend helped make this our best ever visit to this fantastic event.
Not only were there lots of us, but we also brought along kids, dogs, and supporters and we made sure that Northampton Road Runners were well represented in all the best ways.
We collected a number of trophies throughout the weekend and those deserve special credit, however everyone did fantastically well and made it a top trip for those both camping or coming along each day.
The awful weather forecast was luckily wrong and we stayed mainly dry and some even got sunburnt.
After the campers had pitched their tents on Fri evening it was time for action.
First off were young Julien and Isabel ( Jasmines kids) who collected medals in the junior races.
In the Fri 5 we then had many stars. The next generation were represented in good style by Alan (Elaines lad), Carrick and Coral (young Baldwins).
Casey the mad sheepdog dragged Suzanne round and then commandeered her tent.
We had a number of new faces at this event for the 1st time and well done to Avtar who overcame her nerves and ran her 1st ever race as well as we knew she could.
 

Saturday involves the 8.1 mile trail race which is always muddy and slippy.
Joining the 3 race runners Steve, Jo C, Spike and Suzanne did their 2nd efforts and we were joined by Paul, Dave and Paula and all stayed on their feet thankfully.
Sat night involved BBQs, beer, Santa Pods Disco next door, bleating sheep and Wendy snoring which is ideal preparation for the Sun . half marathon.
Amazingly we still had 14 still standing (comparing aches and pains) at the Sunday start line.

Andy C, Eamon, Penny and Rosanna were all here for the 1st time this year and after completing their 3 races had a deserved look of satisfaction (or was it knackered) on their faces.
As did Elaine and Sally who have been here many times before but this year challenged themselves to do all 3 races and finished in style.
Mick Clarke has now done this event 10 times (in 12) and was rewarded with a nice tankard to honour the achievement. Ronnie also picked up his 5 year award.
Trophies were picked up by Mick (mv65), Tony (mv 40), Penny (fv ?), Rosanna 3rd lady ½ marathon.

The ladies were as always great and came 3rd team on both Friday and Sunday.
And last but not least in the overall event we finished 2nd Team beaten only by East London Runners.

So another Colworth weekend is over. Another great success and a great time enjoyed by all.

Make sure you keep this weekend free for next year where we can do it all again with maybe even more of us?
The full results are on Colworth Striders website, below I have listed all who took part.(hopefully)

Marathon Challenge (all 3 races, 5+8.1+13.1=Marathon)

Sally Garrett - 1st time all 3

Jim Anderson - camped for 1st time back on form
Mick Clarke - 1st mv65 Sun 10 year award
Elaine Palmer - 1st time all 3
Jo Smith - 6th year
Andy Cottrell - 1st timer
Eamon Kennedy - 1st timer, under 4 hours
Wendy Parker -  After 26 miles beat Eamon by 4 secs
Penny Andrews - Fv 45 champ
Ronnie Ambrose - 5 yr award
Mark Garrett
Rosanna Andrews - 3rd lady Half Marathon
Andy Blaize - 2nd team
Tony Letts -  MV prizes in all races.

Sat 8.1 mile Trail Race

The above plus
Paul Braddock - the muddier the better, good colworth debut
Paula Pinney - good 1st run here, stayed upright.
Spike Breydin - always in good shape
Steve Prior - warming up for next week
Suzanne Baldwin - ready for marathon debut next week
Jo Cummings - thriving in mud as usual? 1st go at trail
Dave Solly - good tent skills and good run
Fri 5 mile warm-up

14 marathoners plus in no particular order

Charlotte Yarker - 1st visit
Avtar Kour -1st ever race, about time too, great
Mary Davies -  1st timer at Colworth
Jo Cummings
Steve Prior
Spike Breydin
Jasmine Banks - warming up for Sun fell race
Dave and Carole Whatton -  the comeback kids, must keep fit
Suzanne Baldwin + Casey the mobile shagpile carpet, bring on that marathon
Carrick and Coral Baldwin -  good quality genes mean good runs
Alan Palmer - fine effort, needs to listen to mum more

I think that’s everything covered and everyone mentioned.

The only thing missing is the winner of the Northampton Road Runners Bake Off.
It was decided it was too close to call this year, however Eamon must learn not to offer his attempt to Wellinboro’ before us.


Wednesday, 19 June 2013

Harborough 5 - 18th June 2013

Harborough 5 - 18th June 2013

Part of East Midlands Grand Prix

29 Tony Letts 29:43 *4th M45*
61 Matt Brand 32:18
67 Peter Moor 32:33 *PB*
123 Adrian Tuck 34:59
151 Darren Baldwin 36:03
175 Steve Prior 37:17
195 Charlotte Yarker 37:59
204 Darren Byfield 38:13
205 Rebecca Hollowell 38:13
218 Paul Braddock 39:05
241 Jo Lee 40:07
265 Eamon Kennedy 41:16
279 Andrew Pate 42:05
292 Elaine Palmer 42:55
325 Colin Bricher 46:34
328 Joanna Cummings 47:28


Tuesday, 18 June 2013

Northampton Parkrun - Event 58

Northampton Parkrun Event 58 - 15th June 2013

8 Matt BRAND 18:43 PB
15 Peter MOOR 19:25 PB
39 Charlotte YARKER 22:13 PB
40 Darren SMITH 22:14 PB
43 Penny ANDREWS 22:21 PB
50 Eamon KENNEDY 23:08 PB
51 Martin ANDREWS 23:10
55 Jo LEE 23:32
80 Elaine PALMER 25:58
82 Mick CLARKE 26:17
112 Glen COUSNER 28:29
141 Simone Lucy SMITH 32:12

Well done everyone . Lots of PB's this week:-)
Special thanks to
Glen for pacing sub30 again. And Darren Byfield and Beckie's family for volunteering .

Wednesday, 12 June 2013

Banbury 5 - 11th June

11th June 2013 - East Midlands Grand Prix

Banbury 5

25 Tony Letts 29:22 * 4th M45 *

67 Carrick Baldwin 32:03 * 2nd M20 *
75 Stuart Drummond 32:27
81 Peter Moor 32:40
116 Paul Smith 33:58
144 Darren Baldwin 34:51
178 Steve Prior 36:22
181 Roger Taylor 36:26
199 Martin Andrews 37:03
209 Darren Byfield 37:34
216 Charlotte Yarker 37:59
232 Rebecca Hollowell 38:41
247 Andy Cottrell 39:23
252 Tony Kennedy 39:48
270 Eamon Kennedy 40:40
300 Elaine Palmer 43:02
330 Joanna Cummings 47:48

Northampton Parkrun - Event 57


Parkrunners 8th June - Event 57

15 Peter MOOR 00:19:32 * another PB*
19 Mark Alan KENNEDY 00:19:58
46 Martin ANDREWS 00:22:24
63 Eamon KENNEDY 00:23:39
99 Mick CLARKE 00:26:19
141 Glen COUSNER 00:29:39 - sub 30 min pace-setter

Tuesday, 4 June 2013

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

Friday, 31 May 2013

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 22ND 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 25th August 2013, Winter X-Country league – 46 runners involved - Chris Lamb, guest runner, came 2nd 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

Wednesday, 22 May 2013

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

Wednesday, 15 May 2013

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

Monday, 13 May 2013

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

Wednesday, 8 May 2013

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