A Whole New World Of Pain...

Mark Garrett completed the Starnage Challenge on Sunday 6th May.  A 25 mile killer in the Peak District with no markings just a map, compass and instructions to navigate miles of moor/bog/broken tracks. Good views though and a nice stew at finish.  He made the top 10 in 4:55 hrs. (winner took 4:25 hrs)

Park Running

It's finally landed! The Northampton Parkrun is here!

The first event kicked off at the Racecourse on Saturday 5th May and five NRR runners completed the course.  Jo Lee, Elaine Palmer and Martin Andrews are also heavily involved in the organisation of the Park Run which is to be held every Saturday morning at 9am and is free.  Please do your best to support the event by running it and occasionally marshaling when you can.

Results for Parkrun 5th May Peter Moor 20:32
Martin Andrews 21:07
Tom Sullivan 22:43
Charlotte Yarker 24:41(even with a late start)
Debbie Holmes 24:43

Results from Parkrun 12th May
2nd Andy BLAIZE 19:03
4th Mark GARRETT 19:20
7th Peter MOOR 19:37
8th Mark KENNEDY 19:38
 

EMGP Begins At Silverstone

The East Midlands Grand Prix Series kicked off with the traditional curtain raiser at Silverstone Circuit.  High winds and drizzle greeted the 1,100 strong field.
Northampton Road Runners fielded a strong team and club runner of the year Tony Letts finished 57th overall in 37:41.  Andy Blaize was next to finish in 38:37 just ahead of star lady for the day, Rosanna Andrews who was 1st F20 in 40:50

Peter Moore was next to cross the line in 42:17 but actually finished behing Mark Kennedy who's chip time was 42:11.  Steve Prior recorded exactly 43:00 and Charlotte Yarker was close by in 45:33 just ahead of Darren Baldwin in 45:58.  EMGP regular Tom Sullivan was pleased with a 46:24 and Jim Anderson picked up an injury part way round but still managed a 51:54 finish. 

Suzanne Baldwin was next to arrive in the pit lane in 52:57 ahead of Jo Cummings in 54:36 and Ann Dickson in 56:50.

F1 Fan Glen Cousner was an guest member of the club for the evening and finished in 61:21 with Kirsty Turner (62:30) and Richard Rose (64:08) completing the line up.


Results (1st lap in brackets)
57 Tony Letts 37:41 (18:45)
86 Andy Blaize 38:37 (19:05)
154 Rosanna Andrews 40:50 (20:08) 1st F20
204 Mark Kennedy 42:11 (20:31)
206 Peter Moore 42:17 (20:40)
236 Steve Prior M45 43:00 (21:29)
344 Charlotte Yarker FS 45:33 (22:07)
372 Darren Baldwin 45:58 (23:11)
391 Tom Sullivan 46:24 (23:02)
659 Jim Anderson 51:54 (24:39)
700 Suzanne Baldwin 52:57 (26:33)
762 Jo Cummings 54:36 (27:16)
837 Ann Dickson 56:50 (27:45)
976 Glen Cousner 61:21 (30:22)
984 Kirsty Turner 62:30 (31:15)
1018 Richard Rose 64:08 (30:49)
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Overall Team Result (4 to score) (From 47 teams) 16th  Northampton Road Runners 500pts Mens Team (From 35 teams) 15 Northampton Road Runners 161:18 EMGP Women's Team (3 to score) (From 21 teams) 9 Northampton Road Runners 139:43

NRR Awards & AGM

2012 AGM and Presentation Night


Record numbers descended on the Moulton WMC last night following the traditional field time trial run (although it was a little muddier this year). The two Mark’s were on hand to present a glitzy ceremony to review the year and recognise those who have made NRR a success over the past year.

Review of Past Year

We recognised those who have participated in various races locally and nationally and are pleased that even more members are taking part in events. Thank you to everyone who took part in the Cross Country and helped make the Moulton 10K a success.

Marathon Report

Well done to those who completed not only London this year but other marathons including Paris, Brighton, Milton Keynes, Rutland Water, Delapre, Edinburgh and a special mention to Ruth Court who did Paris and Brighton in back to back weeks. Recognition also goes to Wendy Parker, Jim Anderson John Fleming, Martin Andrews, Jocelyn Granger, Peter Moor and Mary Davies for making their debuts at the 26.2.

Loads of achievements over year

There are lots of new faces and great numbers taking part in races both locally and around the country. Well done to Keren, Charlotte, Emily, Ann, Miles, Adrian, Suzanne and Darren for completing their first half marathons. We also have had lots of new faces joining regulars at GP’s and X-C’s Kirsty, Nicky and Matt

Special mentions

Go to Mick Clarke and Sue The Cake for being inspirations for all. Colin Bricher for 50 yrs of competing and wish him well in recovery. Elaine Palmer for her efforts with website. Plus those who have suffered serious injury and we haven’t seen lately, Matt Brand, Martin Baker, Sean Silver and Geoff. Finally thanks to Alan Hackett for his many years of looking after us.

Looking ahead for the coming year

All these dates will be on our new look calendar on the NRR website

Races

The Park Run starts on 5th May at the Racecourse – it’s free to enter

Grand Prix Series starts 9th May at Silverstone

Colworth Weekend is 22nd – 24th June and has free camping facilities plus family fun

Adderbury Half and 10k – we’re running a bus to this low key friendly race on 14th July

Sywell BBQ on 18th July

Our very own Moulton 10k is on 26th Aug

Media – we continue to be strong in the media with regular features in the Chron (hopefully these will continue when the paper goes weekly) plus the website has a couple of new features including the Calendar page. Don’t forget to join us on Facebook & follow the blog (all links are via www.northamptonroadrunners.co.uk).

New Kit Hoodies + T shirts

They look great, get your orders in now. T-shits - £10 and Hoodies £15.

Trophy Presentations

Most Improved Female

We are always delighted to recognise a wide ability of runners at NRR and this is always our favourite part of the evening.

Runners Up

Keren Irving – regular at the Cross Countries and completed her 1st Half Marathon - Bedford

Wendy Parker - improved times steadily over the year and completed her 1st Marathon at Rutland

Suzanne Baldwin – always keen to enter races and likes the more obscure events such as Colworth, The Grizzly (which were her first 20 miler and The Ridgeway.

Kirsty Turner – regular at the cross countries and pretty much always at club runs

Charlotte Yarker – always enters loads of races and a regular at cross countries. Did the GNR and was 9th Senior Lady EMGP. Also did the RNLI Reindeer Run with flashing antlers and was 3rd lady.

Jo Cummings - cross country and grand prix regular who also did a PB at the Cransley 10K

Winner Jocelyn Granger

Jocelyn is a committed and dedicated member of the club who has completed 18 races across the UK all proudly wearing her club vest. She gained a Half Marathon PB and has become an off road specialist. She was 1st Lady at Delapre & Stopsley XCs and had a storming run at the Grizzly. Jocelyn also began training for London Marathon and gained her place 10 days before the event finishing in a time of 4:12. In fact, such is Jocelyn’s keenness, she was actually more excited by entering the London Ballot than the delivery of her new car

Most Improved Male

Runners Up

Rob Donovan – A regular at the cross countries and completed the MK Marathon in 4:02. Had a great run at Oakley in 2:49 and competed the MK Half 1:42 and Dirt Half 1:46. Also ran the Edinburgh Marathon in a PB of 3:5.

Jim Anderson – An astonishing 19 races completed including three marathons in twelve months – London & Rutland (plus Shakespeare last year).
Mark Nightingale – continues to impress with a London Marathon time of 3:13, Oakley 2:19, Grizzly 3:12, Bedford Half 1:28 and also a regular cross countries runner.

Tony Kennedy – Extremely involved this year and has been keen with events like The Ridgeway, Cransley Half, Weedon 10K and the Cross Countries.

Martin Andrews – Made his Marathon debut at MK in 4:27 and did loads of other events including Oakley, Silverstone & Bedford Halfs, Belvoir, Charnwood and the cross countries

Winner John Fleming

John has come on leaps and bounds and debuted at London in a fabulous time of 3:43 whilst raising loads for charity. He drove 200 miles to the Grizzly, did it in 3:36 and then drove home (which deserve a medal in itself). Loves the off road events including Irchester, Seagrave and features at all the cross countries.

Committee Trophy

The Committee Trophy is an award that goes to a person who brings something else to the club. It doesn’t have to be performance or great race times, it can be fun, passion, humour or anything else really.

This year’s award went to a couple who have all the above and do record some pretty decent times as well. For their join in take on why not attitude, as well as always smiling and bringing a feel good factor to the club, the award went to SUZANNE AND DARREN BALDWIN

Female Club Runner of the Year            

Winner Wendy Parker

Wendy’s progress was incredible over the year as she took on so many challenging events. She knocked almost 30 minutes off her half marathon PB going from 2:12 at Otmoor to 1:46 at the Great North Run. Wendy also completed her first Marathon at Rutland and was 2nd lady Delapre & Stopsley Cross Countries. She also completed off road events including Race the Train, The Belvoir Challenge & The Grizzly and despite taking a tumble in the latter two, she still finished.

Male Club Runner

Lots of contenders for this one including Lynton “The Ironman” Dawson, Mark Garrett, Mark Kennedy, Mark Nightingale and Andy “The Comeback King” Blaize.

Winner Tony Letts

Tony has had a fantastic year of results in Grand Prix Series and recorded our best ever X-C results plus he had great runs in build up to London culminating in London Marathon.

Chairman’s Report

Alan gave a great report to close the evening and thanks the committee for their work over the year and the members for making Northampton Road Runners such a great and friendly club. He also presented Dave Soloman with a token after he had to withdraw at the last minute of the London Marathon due to illness

Chairman’s Trophy Award went to Jim Anderson for his work in organising the Christmas party and being a part of so many events, he entered 19 in total.

Special thanks also go to Nicki MacKay for providing sports massage vouchers as prizes to all our winners.

MK Marathon

The long winter dry spell ended as the sun failed to shine on the inaugural MK marathon. It was supposed to be a road race but instead featured water crossings, diversions around large puddles / small lakes and more mud than this seasons cross country could provide.

Three runners braved the conditions and they might have been better prepared if they had spent the winter training in the swimming pool. Tony Letts led the pack home in a time 3:08:08, followed by Rob Donovan in 4:02:41 and Martin Andrews in 4:27:08.

 

For the ladies, Jasmine Banks cracked four and a half hours with a 4:29:28 finish and Inge Flowers came home in an impressive 4:49:48.

 

Well done everyone.

Tony Letts 3:08:22

Rob Donovan 4:02:41

Martin Andrews 4:27:08 1st marathon (probably last as well)

Jasmine Banks 4:29:28

Inge Flowers 4:49:48

The Big One - The Virgin London Marathon

Love it or hate it, the London Marathon is a special event in runners' calendars from all four corners of the world.  Sixteen Northampton Road Runners decided to take on the challenge of one of the world's biggest marathon challenges in the capital.


With eyes on the weekly weather forecast, everyone in the 35,000 strong field were pleasantly surprised to be greeted by sunshine at Black Heath on Sunday 22nd April.


A mix of first timers and seasoned pros lined up in the three starting pens awaiting the off.  A healthy following from the club were strategically positioned en-route to cheer those on in claret and gold vests.


After negotiating the route through the London sights, Mark Nightingale was first to arrive at The Mall in a time of 3:13:15.  Steve Prior was making his 26.2 debut after securing a late late place and was elated with a 3:43:07 which sets him up for Edinburgh next month.


John "The Flyer" Fleming is on fire at the moment and recorded a debut time of 3:43:46 and Lynton Dawson joined forces with Runners' World for the day as part of their pacing team and he stuck to his task by helping others break the four hour barrier in 3:49:06.  Dave Blackburn's training paid off with a 3:55:00 finish and he was spotted cycling to work the following day before a casual game of Badminton to loosen up.


Mark Kennedy enjoyed a great run and knocked 25 minutes off his previous best to record a PB of 4:06:04.  Another marathon debutant was Jocelyn Granger who is always keen and motivated for a challenge and she passed Buckingham Palace and crossed the line in 4:12:48.


Tom Sullivan picked up a late niggle at 24 miles but still managed to record a great time of 4:13:42.  Jim Anderson completed his third marathon in twelve months in a fantastic 4:27:07.


Super Ruth Court beat her Paris time from seven days prior by eight minutes to come home in 4:32:51.  Mary Kingsnorth also braved an injury at 16 miles to finish in a respectable 4:47:04.  Mary Davies said never again after her first outing time of 4:48:34 but we are betting she'll be in the ballot next week.


Pauline Horne is a London regular and was delighted to break five hours in 4:58:14.  Next was another great PB by around 50 minutes, Helen Blackburn arrived at the finish in 5:16:03.


And then there's always one!  Or in this case two...Patrick (Spike) Breydin vowed last year that he would never run in fancy dress ever again, something he echoed at the finish this year when he finished in 6:06:51.  Alan Hackett once again was an inspiration to everyone, battling a range of injuries to finish in 7:01:19 with very little training and wearing his trademark fancy dress.


Well done to everyone who ran, the marathon is a cruel mistress that tests all involved.


Massive thanks go to all NRR's supporters on the day, especially Ronnie Ambrose for organising the bus on the day and making sure everyone go home safely.


We would also like to wish Dave Soloman a speedy recovery who had to pull out on the day due to illness and to Craig Jackson who had to retire through injury.


Results
Mark Nightingale 3:13:15
6855 Steve Prior 3:43:07
6986 John Fleming 3:43:46
8084 Lynton Dawson 3:49:06
Dave Blackburn 3:55:00
12480 Mark Kennedy 4:06:04
14094 Jocelyn Granger 4:12:48
14330 Tom Sullivan 4:13:42
17846 Jim Anderson 4:27:07
19347 Ruth Court 4:32:51
22898 Mary Kingsnorth 4:47:04
23282 Mary Davies 4:48:34
25607 Pauline Horne 4:58:14
28697 Helen Blackburn 5:16:03
34357 Patrick Breydin 6:06:51
36168 Alan Hackett 7:01:19

Worcester Half.

Steve Prior completed the Worcester Half Marathon on Sunday 15th April in a great time of 1:37:44. He described the events as, "A brilliant course through undulating countryside with lots of local support."

One Down One To Go...

Ruth Court has completed the first leg of her double marathon finishing Paris in 4:38:17 just London to do now.

Nicola's Marathon Debut

Nicola Boden was delighted to complete her first marathon today in Brighton with a time of 5:40.

A Stroll In The Countryside...

WENSLEYDALE WANDER Sat 14th April (22ish miles)

Instead of another lap around London this year Mark Garrett has chosen some events from the Long Distance Walkers Association website. These can be run or walked and are generally really nice, well organised, friendly, low key events.

Mark Garrett 3-35 (no chip timing here)

Wensleydale or London

300 or 30,000 entrants

Crowds or lots of sheep thousands

Scenery: Hills and dales tarmac and buildings

Obstacles: Stiles, gates, streams or getting to the start, queuing for loos

Hazards: Sheep shit, snow, barbed wire or gel wrappers, wombles, earache

Prizes: Chilli and apple pie and cream or another window cleaning cloth

Conclusion

Both are great events in their own ways however it is definitely easier to clean your trainers after London

Next events for Mr Garrett...

Valley and Views London marathon day 16 mile walk

Stanage Stumble 6th May 25 mile run

Stanwick 10K

Instead of eating chocolate two Northampton Road Runners went out in the rain to run on Easter Monday at Stanwick 10k.

 

Andy Pate finished in a respectable time of 50:28 and Jane Cosby came home in 1:07:02.  Well done to both.

 

Andy Pate 50:28

Jane Cosby 1:07:02

Northampton Festival Of Running

Craig Jackson stormed home in 5th place in the Easter Sunday Northampton Festival of Running. Craig completed the full marathon distance in a time of 3:18:28.

5th Craig Jackson 3:18:28

Vicki Baker completed the half marathon distance in 2:12:51

152nd Vicki Baker 2:12:51

The Oakley 20

Sixteen runners from Northampton Road Runners made the short trip to Bedfordshire to take part in the traditional pre-London training race, the Oakley 20.

There were some great performances and PBs on the day. First home for the club was Tony Letts in 2:18:50 and hot on his heels was Andy Blaize in 2:19:12. To complete the close battle in the NRR front runners, Mark Nightingale (2:19:46) and Lynton Dawson (2:19:58) were the four men to break the 2:20 barrier.

Martin Andrews had a storming run in 2:42:15 and Robert Donovan yet again found his spring form with a 2:49:26 finish. Tom Sullivan's recent training is paying off with 2:56:52 and Jocelyn Granger continues to get faster, she was delighted to break three hours in 2:59:39.

Dave Blackburn and Jim Anderson continued their London preparations both finishing in 3:02:08 and Mary Kingsnorth recorded a 3:13:25 finish.

Jasmine Banks crossed the line in 3:21:01 ahead of Inge Flowers in 3:27:32. Mick Clarke was next in 3:30:31 and Pauline Horne enjoyed a great time of 3:34:20. Helen Blackburn completed a grand turnout with a brilliant 3:36:01 finish.

56th Tony Letts 2:18:50
58th Andy Blaize 2:19:12

66th Mark Nightingale 2:19:46
72nd Lynton Dawson 2:19:58

282nd Martin Andrews 2:42:15
370th Robert Donovan 2:49:26
462nd Tom Sullivan 2:56:52
502nd Jocelyn Granger 2:59:39
530th David Blackburn 3:02:08

531st Jim Anderson 3:02:08
645th Mary Kingsnorth 3:13:25
712nd Jasmine Banks 3:21:01

767th Inge Flowers 3:27:32
775th Mick Clarke 3:30:31
786th Pauline Horne 3:34:20
797 Helen Blackburn 3:36:01  

Bournemouth Bay Half Marathon

Mark Kennedy travelled south to complete his 4th Bournemouth Bay Half Marathon and grabbed a PB with a time of 1:34:06.  Conditions were perfect for the festival which made running along the seafront a pleasure, taking in views of the Isle of Wight and the Purbeck Hills.

Former club member Rich (The Ambulance) House also finished the half in 1:31:31.

147th Mark Kennedy 1:34:06

The Grizzly - Every Hill Has A Silver Lining...

“You must be mad” is a phrase heard in the ears of thirteen keen Northampton Road Runners at the weekend. These crazy individuals made the long trip to Devon to take part in the iconic Grizzly, a 20 mile challenge starting from the pretty seaside town of Seaton. The route, which adds new surprises every year, headed along a half mile stretch of shingle beach before up and over a cliff into the neighbouring village of Beer. There was no time to stop for any liquid refreshment as more hills and cliff climbs greeted runners to sap the energy from the legs and you haven’t even reached mile three by this point.

The rest of the course includes a knee deep river crossing, the famous “Bog Of Doom”, also knee deep and the “Stairway to Heaven”, a cliff climb that is near impossible to walk up, let alone run. At the peak of the aforementioned stairway, the marshals take great delight in telling runners that they have completed the last climb only for two more to lay in waiting.

Despite the mental toughness required to complete this crazy challenge, the Grizzly is one of the best events on the running calendar. The Cub Run is a nine mile option and Jo Smith completed the challenge in 1:33:24.

Onto the Grizzly and Mark Nightingale flew around the course in an impressive 3:12:11. Former club member Rich (The Ambulance) House took advantage of training in his home surroundings of Dorset and finished in 3:28:55. John Fleming drove down to Devon on the morning and probably was awake enough to feel any pain as his was one of the stars of the show with a 3:36:38 finish. Seasoned off-roader Mark Garrettt also broke four hours in 3:48:37.

Debutants Jocelyn Granger (4:13:50), Mark Kennedy (4:13:53) and Darren Baldwin (4:15:37) shared a journey around the course before Jocelyn’s sprint finish to the line.

Suzanne Baldwin also had plenty of energy for a quick finish crossing the line in 4:18:32 just ahead of Jim Anderson in 4:19:35. Wendy Parker survived an early fall to finish with Ronnie Ambrose in 4:20:02. Another off road long distance veteran Mick Clarke completed the challenge in 4:30:55 and Jan Brawn completed the line up with a fantastic 5:05:19 finish.

Everyone who participated said this was pretty much the best event they have ever entered. NRR would encourage club members to try it out next year and you too can survive the Grizzly. Every hill has a silver lining!

Cub Run
Jo Smiff 1:33:24

Grizzly
Mark Nightingale 3:12:11
Rich (the ambulance) House 3:28:55
John Fleming 3:36:38
Mark Garrettt 3:48:37
Jocelyn Granger 4:13:50
Mark Kennedy 4:13:53
Darren Baldwin 4:15:37
Suzanne Baldwin4:18:32
Jim Anderson 4:19:35
Wendy Parker 4:20:02
Ronnie Ambrose4:20:02
Mick Clarke4:30:55
Jan Brawn 5:05:19

Silverstone Half, Home Of Grand Prix Legends

Whilst others were climbing hills, Martin Andrews decided on a more sensible approach completing the Silverstone Half Marathon in a great time of 1:42:30.

Martin Andrews 1:42:30

Friends Of Mick n Phil...

Steve Prior entered his first half marathon for around twenty five years and proved that he “still has it”.  Steve completed the Friends of Mick'N'Phil Half Marathon around Draycote Water in a time of 1:39:22. Beautiful sunny morning and light winds made it a very pleasant run, with friendly fellow competitors.

Steve Prior 1:39:22

2012 Berkhamsted Half Marathon

Whilst many runners were enjoying the flatter Milton Keynes course, a trio of Northampton Road Runners carried on a little further south to Berkhamsted to take on the contracting Berkhamsted Half.  The course takes in some rolling hills (one lasting for a mile) and beautiful countryside and woodland views.

Mark Kennedy took advantage of the fast down hill finish to clock a pleasing 1:40:10.  Tom Sullivan also enjoyed a good run in 1:45:47 and Mary Kingsnorth was delighted to break the two-hour barrier in 1:59:43.

Results
308th Mark Kennedy 1:40:10
549th Tom Sullivan 1:45:47
958th Mary Kingsnorth 1:59:43

MK Half - Debuts and PBs

Northampton Road Runners were well represented at the Milton Keynes Half Marathon on Sunday 4th March as many left their comfortable beds for a soggy Sunday morning in the rain.  Peter Moor enjoyed a great run and was first home for the club in 1:37:48.  Rob Donovan continues to go from strength to strength and crossed the line in1:42:39.  Adrian Tuck bagged a respectable 1:45:24 in his first ever half marathon and Charlotte Yarker was all smiles with a PB of 1:46:19.  Next to finish was Bob Bateman 1:52:10 just ahead of Mary Davies who also grabbed a PB in 1:58:17. Jo Lee equalled her PB too in 1:58:33 and then a clutch more half marathon debutants followed, Debbie Holmes in 1:58:56, Paul Gray in 2:05:47, Miles Billingham in 2:06:04 and Ann Dickson in 2:11:25.  Emily Ringrose and Nicola Hollowell completed the line up in 2:21:57 and 2:25:26 respectively. Results 515th Peter Moor 1:37:48 562nd Rob Donovan 1:42:39 761st Adrian Tuck 1:45:24 1st Half 787th Charlotte Yarker 1:46:19 PB 1222th Bob Bateman 1:52:10 1336th Mary Davies 1:58:17 PB 1548th Jo Lee 1:58:33 1443rd Debbie Holmes 1:58:56 1st Half 1920th Paul Gray 2:05:47 1st Half 1938th Miles Billingham 2:06:04 1st Half 2144th Ann Dickson 2:11:25 1st Half 2438th Emily Ringrose 2:21:57 2519th Nicola Hollowell 2:25:26

Northampton Road Runners should sometimes be called Northampton Off Road Runners as many of the club's members prefer to swap the tarmac for the trails.  The latest mad event was the Belvoir Challenge in Leicestershire.  The whole village comes alive as runners and walkers take on a 15 (ish) mile challenge and there is a longer 26 (ish) version for those ever madder.

Mark Garrett, a big fan of this event completed the 15 mile challenge in 2:03:53 and Martin Andrews enjoyed his course debut in 2:05:54.  Ronnie Ambrose enjoyed a good time or 2:10:37 and Mark Kennedy, another off road fan, finished in 2:19:48.  Jim Anderson had a great run in 2:20:05 as did Jocelyn Granger 2:27:36.  Wendy Parker survived an early fall to complete the challenge in 2:29:33.  There was one man who was tough enough to take on the full 26 miler and that was Mick Clarke who got round in 5:41:01.
15 Miles
51st Mark Garrett 2:03:53
60th Martin Andrews 2:05:54
80th Ronnie Ambrose 2:10:37
112th Mark Kennedy 2:19:48
115th Jim Anderson 2:20:05
162nd Jocelyn Granger 2:27:36
180th Wendy Parker 2:29:33
 
26 Miles
173rd Mick Clarke 5:41:01

Irchester 15K

John Fleming braved the overnight snowfall to complete the Irchester 15K in 1:09:38 finishing 19th overall.

19th John Fleming 1:09:38

A Snowy Charnwood Hills

It is a race that is very popular on the NRR calendar and anyone who has spent any time running with Mark G will have heard about the challenging hills and the fantastic cakes at the finish.


The night before the race and the snow falls, the wise veterans of previous Charnwood Hills Races decide that an extra hour or two in bed is what they need leaving three Charnwood first timers, Tony Letts, Jocelyn Granger and Martin Andrews to take the challenge.


They may have been foolish but after travelling to Anstey they were joined by a number of hardy runners who were prepared to take the challenge of a 14 mile snowy route under a clear and sunny Leicestershire sky.

Click here for pictures on the Facebook site.


Cheered on by lots of people sledging and dog walkers all three finished the race with smiles on their faces, a bit of blood and cleaner shoes than they started with. Tony Letts led the NRR home finishing in 35th in 1:50:20 followed by Martin Andrews 100th in 2:04:52 and Jocelyn Granger 192nd in 2:25:16.


With a total ascent of 1200ft the going was really tough getting a grip in the snow whilst watching out for the sledges - not the kids but the adults!

Eric Humphries (Shouldn't You Be At Work?)

A team of half a dozen Northampton Road Runners took to the beautiful surroundings of Delapre Abbey for the Northants' Police Eric Humphries Cross Country on Wednesday 25th January.

Steph Russell took the honours as 1st Lady crossing the line in 46.37 and Mick Clarke was 3rd in the MV70 category in 62.40.  Dave Whatton had a fine performance breaking the 50 minute barrier in 49.23  .  Charlotte Yarker also enjoyed a great time of 55.47 and Jim Anderson 57.08 and Karen Irving 77.45 capped off an excellent team outing. 
22nd Steph Russell 46.37 1st lady
31st David Whatton 49.23
46th Charlotte Yarker 55.47
53rd James Anderson 57.08
70th Mick Clarke 62.40 3rd in age catagory
80th Karen Irving 77.45

Tony in Trophy Triumph

Tony Letts our star of this seasons cross-country was amongst the end of season trophy winners collecting the prize for 3rd overall in the Male Vets category ( yes, that means he is over 40)

X-Country Finale Sun 15th Jan

Delapre Abbey Park was the beautiful, sunny, frosty, setting for the final cross country race of another season.  29 Northampton Road Runners turned out including Nicki Hollowell and Charlotte Yarker making the cross country debuts. Alan Hackett also made a very welcome return in his club vest.

Although sunny the course was very icy in patches and at times it was as much skating as running. There were a number of falls with Tony Letts and Mark Garrett taking a dive in the woods and Tony Kennedy also taking a tumble.

Tony Letts has been the star of the season and finished 23^rd despite the fall.  Mark Nightingale was pushed on by a returning Keith Jelleyman making a welcome appearance.  Star of the day was Rob Donovan who ran to the start, did the race, then ran home after, a great effort.

The ladies were led home by Jocelyn Granger and Wendy Parker once more and were well chased by Charlotte Yarker who was held up at the start.  Not many would choose to run on their 21^st birthday so well done to Mary Kingsnorth, she must have entered the wrong category though.

Kirsty Turner, Keren Irving and Carole Whatton proved that not only the flyers can enjoy these races and each had their own races within the race.  On a sad note, Matt Brand picked up a serious injury and we wish him a speedy recovery.

These club stars have appeared in all 5 X-C races this season are Carole Whatton, Jo Cummings, Jo Smith, Tony Letts, Dave Whatton, Jim Anderson, Mark Nightingale and Mark Garrett

Ladies

38        Jocelyn Granger
44        Wendy Parker
47        Charlotte Yarker
69        Jo Smiff
71        Elaine Palmer
77        Mary Kingsnorth
92        Claire McDaid
93        Jo Cummings
108      Kirsty Turner
120      Keren Irving
124      Nicki Hollowell
125      Carole Whatton

Men

23        Tony Letts
40        Mark Nightingale
47        Keith Jellyman
95        Stuart Cressey
97        Dave Whatton
108      Mark Garrett
115      Martin Andrews
120      Darren Baldwin
125      Pete Moor
142      Ronnie Ambrose
148      Tom Sullivan
153      Rob Donovan
194      Jim Anderson
199      Tony Kennedy
224      Mick Clarke
244      Alan Hackett
            Matt Brand           pulled out injured hopefully not as serious as it looks

Great news with the team results with today being one of our best ever.

Event 5           

Ladies          9^th
Men             7^th
Combined   8th 

Final League positions

Ladies           11^th
Men                9^th
Combined       9^th

A great effort all season and we shall see you all for the next season in October hopefully.

Stopsley in the Snow

After being cancelled for the last 2 years the pre-Christmas cross-country looked all set for fair weather. That was until we arrived and a blizzard suddenly turned up at Luton. The snow fell, the wind blew, and the fields turned to white, ready for our team of 22. Gloves, hats, and leggings were dug out of bags and more than a few had to be pushed out of the door.

The huddle of penguins quickly dispersed once the starting horn sounded and thankfully the snow eased off. The snow on top of a frozen course made it a treacherous skating rink of a track and there was many a tumble taking place amongst the field.
Alan Burgess and Peter Moor enjoyed good runs making it into the scorers.
Tony Letts and Mark Nightingale excelled in the snow and were well chased by Gary McDaniels, Stuart Cressey, and Dave Whatton whilst Mark Garrett managed to fall over twice due to the lack of street lights.

Jocelyn Granger and Wendy Parker were welcome additions on the fun bus and were the club's first two ladies being closely followed by Jo Smith, Elaine Palmer and Mary Kingsnorth.
Claire McDaid, Jo Cummings, Keren Irving, Kirsty Turner and Carol Whatton ran fine races and had little left at the end for the uphill slog back to the race HQ.

Their we had the welcome sight of Denise (Stephs mum) loaded up with cakes to aid our recovery.

The team performed their usual heroics and hopefully we can get some more to join us for the final round this season on Sun Jan 15th at Delapre Abbey so no excuses that it is too far away. However we will not be able to offer a day out on the fun bus for this one.

Ladies
41 Jocelyn Granger
53 Wendy Parker
62 Jo Smith
66 Elaine Palmer
67 Mary Kingsnorth
81 Claire McDaid
82 Jo Cummings
102 Keren Irving
103 Kirsty Turner
111 Carol Whatton

Men
15 Tony Letts
37 Mark Nightingale
51 Gary McDaniels
75 Stuart Cressey
92 Dave Whatton
123 Pete Moore
126 Alan Burgess
137 Ronnie Ambrose
145 Mark Garrett
148 John Fleming
151 Tom Sullivan
190 Jim Anderson

Ladies 10th on day, Men 10th on day, Combined 10th on day (out of 14 teams)

Bedford Half Marathon

Four club members behaved themselves at the club's annual Christmas party for an early start at the Bedford Harriers Half Marathon on Sunday 12th December.  Gary McDaniels won a close battle between himself and Mark Nightingale, crossing the line in 1:28:23 ahead of Mark in 1:28:32.  Martin Andrews enjoyed a great run in 1:35:50 and Mick Clarke showed no signs of dancing fatigue with a 1:54:57 finish.

138th Gary McDaniels 1:28:23
142nd Mark Nightingale 1:28:32
297th Martin Andrews 1:35:50
996th Michael Clarke 1:54:57

 

Special mention also to Keren Irving who ran her first ever half marathon in 2:31:53.

Milton Keynes All New 10K

Richard Franks and Peter Moor completed the inaugural Milton Keynes 10K on Sunday 11th December 2011. Both enjoyed enjoyed good runs with Richard finishing 12th in 43:34 and Peter was 25th overall in 46:28

12th Richard Franks 43:34
25th Peter Moor 46:28

Watlington 10K XC

Jocelyn Granger completed the Watlington 10K race in the Chilterns which she described as, "Pretty tough with two very steep ascents but some exciting descents to compensate."  She finished in 58:44 and was 6th lady overall.
 
It was advertised as a traditional race so there was no chip timing, goodie bag, t-shirt or medal, however for £4 it had a great friendly atmosphere, was well marshalled and sign posted and worth remembering
for next year. (Mum's dinner was ok too!)

Posh 10

Half a dozen keen NRR members made the short trip across the country boarder for the Nene Valley 10 in Peterborough.  Tom Sullivan got a rare chance to complete his favourite distance and did so in 1:17:50.  Charlotte Yarker enjoyed a good run with 1:20:05 and Mick Clark was first in the MV70 category in 1:25:57.  Jo Smith finished in 1:27:11 ahead of Mary Kingsnorth in 1:29:19.  Pauline Horne completed the line up in 1:38:16.

Tom Sullivan 1:17:50
Charlotte Yarker 1:20:05
Mick Clark 1:25:57
Jo Smith 1:27:11
Mary Kingsnorth 1:29:19
Pauline Horne 1:38:16

Mick was first man home in the Over 70 category.

Letchworth Cross Country

With the team ravaged by illness, injury, hangovers, decorating, baby-sitting duties and other various excuses it put pressure on those normally further down the field to “step up to the plate”.

It was nice to get back to Letchworth Garden City after 2 years of a freeze out and despite the long drive and hike to the start we were our usual fully focused and in fine fettle. Well some were.

The race produced some very good individual efforts all leading to a good team performance. Tony Letts had probably our highest ever position in the men’s race. It meant a long wait for the rest of us. Mark Nightingale must regret those years of boring tarmac as he is having a great series of off-road runs. Martin Andrews is now amongst that elite group of scorers and keeps improving at each race. Mark Garrett found his form once again to finish third for the club. John Flemming and Mark Kennedy enjoyed a finish line battle for spot 124.

Jo Lee had a day to remember (or forget). Travelling with the club playboys Jim, Mark K, and Ronnie she was desperate for a hard run in order to be tired enough to sleep on the way back. First lady home was a great run for someone suffering with earache.

Elaine Palmer has been missed from the team for a while and showed us why with a great return chasing Jo Smith for the line and making 3rd lady scorer.

Many other good runs included Tom Sullivan keeping Darren Baldwin at bay and the ongoing battle between Caroline Cope and Jo Cummings is now 2-1 to Caroline.

Ladies
59th Jo Lee
65th Jo Smith
68th Elaine Palmer
83rd Caroline Cope
84th Jo Cummings
103rd Pauline Horne
108th Kirsty Turner
122nd Carol Whatton

Men
11th Tony Letts
46th Mark Nightingale
72nd Mark Garrett
106th Dave Whatton
124th John Fleming
125th Mark Kennedy
133rd Martin Andrews
174th Tom Sullivan
181st Darren Baldwin
198th Ronnie Ambrose
242nd Jim Anderson
249th Richard Rose

Next race Sun Dec 18th at Stopsley.

Jocelyn's PB

Jocelyn Granger ran a PB at the Clowne Half Marathon in Derbyshire on Sunday 20th November tackling the hills and winds to finish in 1.51.27.

Reindeers At The Abbey

Charlotte Yarker was third lady overall at the RNLI Reindeer Run, a 10k off-road event at Woburn Abbey.  The race takes place in the beautiful surroundings of the Abbey and welcomes runners of all abilities to take part in 5K and 10K distances.  The organisers promise tons of festive fun, with Reindeer Antlers and flashing noses for all our runners, and a mince pie when you cross the finish line!

Luton Marathon Relay

Debbie Holmes did a leg of the Luton Marathon Relay on Sunday 20th November. Her team (consisted of  two future club member maybe)  came third in the Ladies Vet class and sixth in the ladies team category overall. Debbie's time over 8.7 miles was 1:17:58.

Dirt Half

Rob Donovan enjoyed himself in the mud at the Dirt Half Marathon in Leighton Buzzard on Saturday 19th November.  His time was 1:46:33.
     

Jo's PB at St Neots

Jo Lee grabbed a PB 1:56 at the St. Neots Half Marathon on Sunday 20th November.  She is now setting her sights on breaking 1:55 next time .........

Shakespeare - To PB Or Not To PB...

Martin Andrews ran the flat as a pancake, PB guaranteed Shakespeare 10k on Saturday 19th November in a time of 42:28.

Biggleswade Cross Country Sunday 13th November

A beautiful autumn morning for a run around the glorious rolling parkland of Shuttleworth College in the second event of this cross country season. This time there were no water jumps or mud but plenty of stiff climbs to get the heart pumping.

A few of us were handicapped by running on Saturday or by last weeks Rutland Marathon but with a team of 24 runners the rest were well able to carry the weary ones.  The tough 5 miles ensured everyone was glowing at the finish.

Another top trip out on the fun bus, next outing is on 27^th Nov (yes, only 2 weeks) where we will be seeing the delights of Letchworth.

Ladies

20          Steph Russell

95     Jo Smith (back in the scorers)

102      Debbie Holmes  (great support from family)

111      Suzanne Baldwin

137      Jo (mind my finger) Cummings

159      Sue (are we at the seaside) Thompson

177      Pauline Horne

186      Carol Whatton

187      Keren Irving

Blokes

14          Tony Letts

61          Mark Nightingale

81          Gary McDaniels

126      Dave Whatton

127       Matt Brand    (I couldn’t get past Daves elbows)

129   Mark Kennedy  (Rutland Marathon no bother)

130   Mark Garrett

160      Martin Andrews

173      Pete Moore

206   John Fleming   (where are the cakes)

223      Darren Baldwin

224      Rob Donovan

267      Tony Kennedy

287   Micky Bhogal   (can I come again )

312   Richard Rose

Seagrave Wolds

If you've nothing better to do on a Saturday morning then why not get in the mood for the following day's cross country by, well, running a cross country.  The Seagrave Wolds Challenge is a unique 15.9 mile bogging run around Leicestershire with cake and tea stops en-route.

 

Gary McDaniels finished 19th overall in 1:57:38 and Steph Russell added to her trophy cabinet being first lady to finish in 2:00:08.  Mark Garrett was next home in 2:14:23 and John Fleming completed the line up in 2:20.

 

19th Gary McDaniels 1:57:38

22nd Steph Russell  2:00:08 1st Lady

62nd Mark Garrett 2:14:23

last John Fleming 6 hrs and still missing (estimated finish 2-20ish)

John in his rush for the crumble and custard forgot to get scanned as he finished and there are now mountain rescue teams looking for him.

 

Rutland Water Photos

Rutland Water Marathon

A team of five Northampton Road Runners made the short hop across the county border to take part in the second running of the Rutland Water Marathon.  The event offered a multi-terrain undulating course taking in some breath-taking scenery across the water and rolling woodland trails.

The star of the day was Wendy Parker making her marathon debut and finishing in an impressive 4:13:57.  Ronnie Ambrose was next to finish 4:17:24 with Mark Kennedy 4:31:22, Mick Clarke 4:37:09 and Jim Anderson 4:39:17 completing the NRR team who finished 8th overall on the day.

214th Wendy Parker 4:13:57
227th Ronnie Ambrose 4:17:24
267th Mark Kennedy 4:31:22
281st Mick Clarke 4:37:09
292nd Jim Anderson 4:39:17

Halloween Horror

Colin Bricher took part in the Halloween Horrow on Saturday 29th October.  This four mile run in the dark over Warwickshire countryside and the grass/woods/track/road route is illuminated by LEDs and the odd street lamp (sounds like club nights in Moulton).  Colin completed the course in 41:43 and won a prize for being the oldest finisher.

 

58th Colin Bricher 41:43

 

Sheffield 10K

Whilst NRR members were having fun in the Wellingborough mud, Jocelyn Granger took part in the Sheffield 10K, a trail run with plenty of climbs and bogs. Jocelyn finished in 52.54 and was 14th in her age category.

X-Country Wellingborough Sun 30th October.

Croyland Park, a mythical venue on the X-C circuit whose deep muddy stream crossings strike fear into many a seasoned runner. This course had not been used for many years so was a new adventure for many of the Northampton Road Runners in attendance. Well it didn’t scare the 28 club stars who turned out for the 1st fixture of a new season. It included the old and bold, the shiny and new, and the inbetweeners.

Smart new trainers were soon hidden beneath a layer of mud and those in clean white socks soon realized why others were in tatty old black things found at the back of drawers for these occasions. It is not the water in the stream that is the problem it is the steep, muddy, slippery banks you have to climb to get out of the stream. Efforts ranged from graceful to comical and Alan (Hack) should have some good photos of our performances.

Things look good for the season with everyone promising to come along again and at least pretending they had enjoyed themselves. All deserve credit however we must mention our new members of the X-C club who must now expect me to be constantly badgering them. These were Kirsty Turner, Stuart Cressey, Matt Brand, Martin Andrews and Tony Kennedy. It is great to see such a good turn-out now compared with a few years ago when we struggled to get enough for a team. 

It is hardly worth cleaning the mud of the trainers as we are back out on Sun 13th Nov at Biggleswade. Details are on the website. Book your place on the bus here. There is always room for more runners so come along and join the party.

Ladies
10th Steph Russell
64th Jo Lee
69th Mary Kingsnorth
76th Jo Smith
104th Caroline Cope
105th Claire McDaid
106th Jo Cummings
129th Sue Thompson
143rd Keren Irving
144th Kirsty Turner
150th Carol Whatton

Men
14th Tony Letts
40th Andy Blaize
73rd Mark Nightingale
89th Stuart Cressey
101st Gary McDaniels
121st Matt Brand
133rd Dave Whatton
142nd Mark Kennedy
150th Martin Andrews
168th Peter Moor
178th John Fleming
191st Tom Sullivan
211st Tony Kennedy
220th Jim Anderson
246th Micky Bhogal
258th Mark Garrett
269th Martin Rowe
 

Snowdonia Marathon

A time of year fro hardcore marathons and this weekend was no exception.  Keith Jellyman took on the Snowdonia Marathon on Saturday 29th October and finished in a very respectable 3:51:47.

376th Keith Jellyman 3:51:47

Great South Run...

Mick Clarke was spotted on the TV taking in the sights of Southsea and chatting to the spectators at the Great South Run on Sunday 30th October.  We have no idea if he is still chatting or if he has finished but we're sure it must be the latter...

Rugby 10

On Sunday 23rd October, two Northampton Road Runners braved the hilly Rugby 10 course. Martin Andrews crossed the line in 1:16:10 and Sue "the Cake" Thompson finished in 1:40:06

62nd Martin Andrews 1:16:10
147th Sue Thompson 1:40:06

Trionium Greensand Ridge Marathon (yes it's a hard one).

Northampton Road Runners' Mark Garrett completed the Trionium Greensand Ridge Marathon on Saturday 22nd October in 4:09:53. Such is the challenge of this event, organisers tell you to take your marathon time and add a third whilst you pack your survival kit as you begin your adventure.

MK Park Run

Tom Sullivan and Mary Kingsnorth took part in the weekly Milton Keynes Park Run on Saturday 22nd October and finished in 23:39 and 25:49 respectively. 72 Tom SULLIVAN 00:23:39

112 Mary KINGSNORTH 00:25:49

Nine Ten Eleven

For those people who love numbers, Sunday 9th October brought a unique dateline of 09/10/11 and also saw  twenty-one Northampton Road Runners take part in three different events

Great Eastern Half Marathon Peterborough
A dozen members travelled to Peterborough to take on the Great Eastern Half Marathon beginning and ending in the city centre.  Andy Blaize finished 195th in all in a time of 1:26:59 and close behind was Steph Russell 1:27:58.  Star of the day was Mary Davies who set a new PB and broke the two hour barrier for the first time in 1:59:53.  Chris Ford and Sue Thompson were just over the two hours in 2:02:48 and 2:07:24 and Dave Soloman crossed the line in 2:26:38 despite battling a sickness bug.

Ridgeway 15.5K
The feeling of Autumn returned for those making the short trip down the M1 to Tring for the 29th Annual Ridgeway 15.5K to take on a challenge that had everything.  A congested start along a farm track soon opened out to fields before a long woodland climb that flattened occasionally to enable runners to take in stunning views.  The second half roller-coasted up and down steep climbs and descents as strong winds battered runners who were grateful for a tree lined drop through a long woodland trail. The final mile and a half was a flat run in along the leafy village streets.

36th overall on the day was Mark Garrett who pulled away from the crowds at the beginning to finish in 1:09:49.  The other Mark, Kennedy finished strongly to record 1:14:50.  Alan Burgess, again visiting from France finished in an impressive 1:20:24 and Darren Baldwin was on his heels in 1:23:16.  The other Darren, Byfield finished in 1:25:15 ahead of the other Kennedy, Tony in 1:26:40.

Jocelyn Granger was the first lady to finish for NRR in 1:27:49 with veteran Mick Clarke (1:29:07), Jo Smith (1:30:12) and Jim Anderson (1:30:18) all closing in.  Jo Lee came home in 1:33:27 only seconds ahead of Suzanne Baldwin in 1:33:50 with Andy Pate and Cathy Craig completing the line up in 1:34:50 and 1:50:20.

Royal Parks Half Marathon
From the quiet countryside of Tring to the busy streets of the nation's capital Mark Nightingale completed the Royal Parks Half Marathon in 1:30:50 finishing an impressive 257th overall.

Ridgeway 15.5K
36th Mark Garrett 1:09:49
72nd Mark Kennedy 1:14:50
150th Alan Burgess 1:20:24
193rd Darren Baldwin 1:23:16
224th Darren Byfield 1:25:15
251st Tony Kennedy 1:26:40
269th Jocelyn Granger 1:27:49
289th Mick Clarke 1:29:07
308th Jo Smith 1:30:12
310th Jim Anderson 1:30:18
352th Jo Lee 1:33:27
360th Suzanne Baldwin 1:33:50
370th Andy Pate 1:34:50
492th Cathy Craig1:50:20

Great Eastern Half Marathon Peterboro
195th Andy Blaize 1:26:59
217th Steph Russell 1:27:58
1845th Mary Davies 1:59:53
2029th Chris Ford 2:02:48
2268th Sue Thompson 2:07:24
2931th Dave Soloman 2:26:38

Royal Parks Half Marathon
257th Mark Nightingale 1:30:50