Andy H reports..
To coincide with the Annual Gloucester Festival, Severn AC stage the Festival 7. The race used to be staged in a more central location in Gloucester but over the last few years it now starts at the Pilot Inn at Hardwicke and the route follows the country lanes around Longney and Elmore. The course is very undulating so fast times are difficult to achieve. On Thursday evening, 5 Tewkesbury Athletes tackled this tough course and also had to cope with very warm weather.
First home was yours truly in 41:22, this gave me a position of 4th (3rd Senior Man). Yes I was beaten by a lady (only just though), but a very good athlete in Jo Brewer of Cheltenham Harriers who broke the ladies course record by over 90 seconds. Not the greatest time in the world but a good hard workout and reasonable bearing in mind that I only decided to run it just over an hour before the start. Next home was Stu Buchan who came home in 20th in a time of 49:07. This was his first race back from a long lay off, well done. Stu Dudfield was next in 49:36 (22nd) followed by Barry O'Driscoll in 50:17 (23rd) and finally Cathy Dudfield in 53:32 (29th, but 3rd lady). Both Cathy and myself picked up prizes of various chocolate biscuits. Overall it was good that a reasonable turnout was achieved and compete in a race that has a good history in the Gloucestershire road racing calendar.
There were 35 runners with a winning time of 37:07.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Monday, July 24, 2006
Worcester Pitchcroft 10km, 16/07/06
Jon M reports..
Worcester racecourse was hot and humid for the annual 10km race. Always a popular race with both senior and junior fun runs taking place. Tewkesbury AC’s runners and their families were out in force to take on the course that is made up of trail pathways, tarmac and shingle. The 10km event consisted of three 2 mile laps and a bit extra to total 10km.
The most impressive run of was produced by Andrew Hawkins. In-form Hawkins performed with ease while those around fatigued - including the early leader who pulled-out! A sub 36 minute run was just outside the podium in 4th. However, not for the first time this season, the women club runners collected prizes. Angie Sadler, fresh from an amazing result in the Calgary marathon, found it in her to claim 2nd place overall female and 1st place veteran. Sadler completed the ‘slow’ course in 40 minutes. Silverware too for Cathy Dudfield. Dudfield’s time of 46 minutes rewarded her with 3rd senior and 4th female overall. Nigel Tillot just missed breaking the benchmark 40 minute 10km time. While Phil Howells came in seconds over 45 mins. Rare appearances from Clive Sentence and Jon Rawlings saw the two join Jon Mansfield and Jason Draper in the top 20 of the finishing field. Carol Cowley, Sandie Harwood and Wesley Reid had trouble free runs as less experienced runners were forced to reduce their pace as the sun warmed the air.
4th Andy Hawkins 35.52
7th John Rawlings 36.34
11th Jon Mansfield 37.26
12th Clive Sentance 37.40
20th Jason Draper 39.01
23rd Nigel Tillot 40.08
24th Angie Sadler 40.21 2nd lady/1st vet
59th Phillip Howells 45.02
67th Cathy Dudfield 46.03 4th lady/3rd Senior
75th Carol Cowley 47.05
92nd Sandie Harwood 48.59
190th Wes Reid 65.05
Worcester racecourse was hot and humid for the annual 10km race. Always a popular race with both senior and junior fun runs taking place. Tewkesbury AC’s runners and their families were out in force to take on the course that is made up of trail pathways, tarmac and shingle. The 10km event consisted of three 2 mile laps and a bit extra to total 10km.
The most impressive run of was produced by Andrew Hawkins. In-form Hawkins performed with ease while those around fatigued - including the early leader who pulled-out! A sub 36 minute run was just outside the podium in 4th. However, not for the first time this season, the women club runners collected prizes. Angie Sadler, fresh from an amazing result in the Calgary marathon, found it in her to claim 2nd place overall female and 1st place veteran. Sadler completed the ‘slow’ course in 40 minutes. Silverware too for Cathy Dudfield. Dudfield’s time of 46 minutes rewarded her with 3rd senior and 4th female overall. Nigel Tillot just missed breaking the benchmark 40 minute 10km time. While Phil Howells came in seconds over 45 mins. Rare appearances from Clive Sentence and Jon Rawlings saw the two join Jon Mansfield and Jason Draper in the top 20 of the finishing field. Carol Cowley, Sandie Harwood and Wesley Reid had trouble free runs as less experienced runners were forced to reduce their pace as the sun warmed the air.
4th Andy Hawkins 35.52
7th John Rawlings 36.34
11th Jon Mansfield 37.26
12th Clive Sentance 37.40
20th Jason Draper 39.01
23rd Nigel Tillot 40.08
24th Angie Sadler 40.21 2nd lady/1st vet
59th Phillip Howells 45.02
67th Cathy Dudfield 46.03 4th lady/3rd Senior
75th Carol Cowley 47.05
92nd Sandie Harwood 48.59
190th Wes Reid 65.05
Jane Tomlinson 5, July 06
Andy H reports....
A well organised and unusual race. A good local community feel to it. Most of the runners were from clubs in that part of West Yorkshire.
Started off on canal path trails. After about 1.5 miles went onto grass paths, quite awkward to run on. After just over 2.5 miles had to cross a canal lock. We had to walk across this due to Health and Safety reasons. We then headed back along more trail paths. After 4 miles hit more grass paths, crossed a footbridge and then up a slight incline onto the finish. Not a PB course but quite enjoyable. All finishers were given a bottle of water which was needed on a warm Tuesday evening.
I finished 7th (out of 170) in a time of 28:50. The winning time was 27:20.
A well organised and unusual race. A good local community feel to it. Most of the runners were from clubs in that part of West Yorkshire.
Started off on canal path trails. After about 1.5 miles went onto grass paths, quite awkward to run on. After just over 2.5 miles had to cross a canal lock. We had to walk across this due to Health and Safety reasons. We then headed back along more trail paths. After 4 miles hit more grass paths, crossed a footbridge and then up a slight incline onto the finish. Not a PB course but quite enjoyable. All finishers were given a bottle of water which was needed on a warm Tuesday evening.
I finished 7th (out of 170) in a time of 28:50. The winning time was 27:20.
Gloucester half, 23/07/06
Jon M reports..
A group of three runners made the short trip to Newent to take part in the Glos Half.
Jason Draper performed well to finish under 1.27 minutes - a fine time over the undulating countryside course. And, even with a welcome drop of rain and light breeze, the air was still humid. Barry O’Driscoll had expected to run as well as club-mate Phillip Howells only to suffer from dehydration from the 8 mile mark, probably not the only athlete to be affected due to the hot and humid days preceding. O’Driscoll viewed his day philosophically and is looking forward to drinking more pre-race (water that is!). Ultra-distance veteran Phillip Howells clocked a fabulous time to finish in 88th place from a field of 300.
39th - Jason Draper 1-26.59
88th - Phillip Howells 1-36.06
134th - Barry O'Driscoll 1-44.30
A group of three runners made the short trip to Newent to take part in the Glos Half.
Jason Draper performed well to finish under 1.27 minutes - a fine time over the undulating countryside course. And, even with a welcome drop of rain and light breeze, the air was still humid. Barry O’Driscoll had expected to run as well as club-mate Phillip Howells only to suffer from dehydration from the 8 mile mark, probably not the only athlete to be affected due to the hot and humid days preceding. O’Driscoll viewed his day philosophically and is looking forward to drinking more pre-race (water that is!). Ultra-distance veteran Phillip Howells clocked a fabulous time to finish in 88th place from a field of 300.
39th - Jason Draper 1-26.59
88th - Phillip Howells 1-36.06
134th - Barry O'Driscoll 1-44.30
Frampton 10km
Jon reports..
Runners from Tewkesbury Athletics club took part in Monday evenings 10km event at Frampton. Conditions were cooler than previous years, nevertheless 501 finished the race to receive their complimentary glass of local cider. Three outstanding performances were produced amongst an eight strong Tewkesbury AC contingent. Nigel Tillot and Sandie Harwood smashed their pb's for the 10km with 40.09 and 48.05 minutes respectively. Both excellent over the country lane course. Club captain Cathy Dudfield ran superbly to come within seconds of her lifetime best.
17th Jon Mansfield - 36.55
38th Jason Draper - 38.50
56th Nigel Tillot - 40.09
98th Stuart Dudfield - 42.53
140th Cathy Dudfield - 44.58
161st Carol Cowley - 45.57
208th Sandie Harwood - 48.05
209th Phillip Howells - 48.06
Runners from Tewkesbury Athletics club took part in Monday evenings 10km event at Frampton. Conditions were cooler than previous years, nevertheless 501 finished the race to receive their complimentary glass of local cider. Three outstanding performances were produced amongst an eight strong Tewkesbury AC contingent. Nigel Tillot and Sandie Harwood smashed their pb's for the 10km with 40.09 and 48.05 minutes respectively. Both excellent over the country lane course. Club captain Cathy Dudfield ran superbly to come within seconds of her lifetime best.
17th Jon Mansfield - 36.55
38th Jason Draper - 38.50
56th Nigel Tillot - 40.09
98th Stuart Dudfield - 42.53
140th Cathy Dudfield - 44.58
161st Carol Cowley - 45.57
208th Sandie Harwood - 48.05
209th Phillip Howells - 48.06
Latest handicap scores
Jason reports..
Thanks to everyone who competed in the latest handicap race. Another good turnout saw the total runners for the series so far rise to 34 (could we get you all out for the next two and make it really interesting?) including six series virgins, three of which were club newcomers.
Congratulations to Phil for a comfortable victory and to Stuart and newcomer Steve Jones for getting among the points. But with his third major points finish in a row Nigel is the man to catch as he climbs to the top of the leader board as his ever improving season goes from strength to strength. But its still tight at the top and the title & trophy for the inaugural Handicap Champion is still up for grabs with two races left. But as ever (this is my favourite part!) Phil, Nigel & Steve Jones will be penalised next time out!, which reminds me, I need a volunteer to assist me next time (August 9th) or the race will not go ahead!!
The following are the finish order with points scored and time order for July 12th, followed by the current leaderboard with individual number of races run in brackets (remember best 4 of 6 to count). Jason
POSITION NAME POINTS RANK TIME
1 PHIL H 5 10 35:49
2 NIGEL T 4 3 32:18
3 STEVE JONES 3 6 34:34
4 STUART D 2 9 34:42
5 STEVE WIGGALL 1 7 34:36
6 MIKE WARD 1 15 41:05
7 SANDIE H 1 14 39:13
8 CLIVE BAKER 1 1 30:02
9 BRADLEY C 1 5 33:06
10 JON M 1 2 30:40
11 ROB J 1 13 38:12
12 CATH D 1 11 36:35
13 CAROL C 1 12 38:06
14 JON R 1 4 32:44
15 ADRIAN L 1 8 34:39
16 CAROLINE 1 16 51:13
17 VICKY 1 17 52:00
POSITION NAME GRAND TOTAL (RACES RUN)
1 NIGEL 9 (3)
2 ANG 8 (3)
3 ROGER 7 (3)
4 CAROL 7 (4)
5 SANDIE 7 (4)
6 CHARLOTTE 6 (2)
7 BRAD 6 (3)
8 CATH 6 (4)
9 PHIL 6 (2)
10 JON M 5 (3)
11 BEV 3 (2)
12 STU D 3 (2)
13 MIKE 3 (3)
14 STEVE W 3 (3)
15 STEVE J 3 (1)
16 ROB J 2 (2)
17 STEVE D 2 (2)
OTHERS 1 (1)
Thanks to everyone who competed in the latest handicap race. Another good turnout saw the total runners for the series so far rise to 34 (could we get you all out for the next two and make it really interesting?) including six series virgins, three of which were club newcomers.
Congratulations to Phil for a comfortable victory and to Stuart and newcomer Steve Jones for getting among the points. But with his third major points finish in a row Nigel is the man to catch as he climbs to the top of the leader board as his ever improving season goes from strength to strength. But its still tight at the top and the title & trophy for the inaugural Handicap Champion is still up for grabs with two races left. But as ever (this is my favourite part!) Phil, Nigel & Steve Jones will be penalised next time out!, which reminds me, I need a volunteer to assist me next time (August 9th) or the race will not go ahead!!
The following are the finish order with points scored and time order for July 12th, followed by the current leaderboard with individual number of races run in brackets (remember best 4 of 6 to count). Jason
POSITION NAME POINTS RANK TIME
1 PHIL H 5 10 35:49
2 NIGEL T 4 3 32:18
3 STEVE JONES 3 6 34:34
4 STUART D 2 9 34:42
5 STEVE WIGGALL 1 7 34:36
6 MIKE WARD 1 15 41:05
7 SANDIE H 1 14 39:13
8 CLIVE BAKER 1 1 30:02
9 BRADLEY C 1 5 33:06
10 JON M 1 2 30:40
11 ROB J 1 13 38:12
12 CATH D 1 11 36:35
13 CAROL C 1 12 38:06
14 JON R 1 4 32:44
15 ADRIAN L 1 8 34:39
16 CAROLINE 1 16 51:13
17 VICKY 1 17 52:00
POSITION NAME GRAND TOTAL (RACES RUN)
1 NIGEL 9 (3)
2 ANG 8 (3)
3 ROGER 7 (3)
4 CAROL 7 (4)
5 SANDIE 7 (4)
6 CHARLOTTE 6 (2)
7 BRAD 6 (3)
8 CATH 6 (4)
9 PHIL 6 (2)
10 JON M 5 (3)
11 BEV 3 (2)
12 STU D 3 (2)
13 MIKE 3 (3)
14 STEVE W 3 (3)
15 STEVE J 3 (1)
16 ROB J 2 (2)
17 STEVE D 2 (2)
OTHERS 1 (1)
Bourton Mile Race, 15/07/06
Jon reports...
A small collective of athletes from Tewkesbury raced over the mile. The event was the Gloucestershire county mile championships as well as part of the Glos road race series (GRRS). Four runners entered the senior event and two collected category medals. Mick Morris finished in the silver medal position after timing 6.28 minutes. Excellent for the V60 runner who has been troubled with knee injuries for two years. Sandie Harwood impressed again. This time the Overbury athlete who, currently occupies second place in the GRRS, produced a 6.46 minute mile to finish second in the LV35 category. Barry O'Driscoll and Jon Mansfield had contrasting races. Mansfield broke the five minute mark for the first time while O'Driscoll ran with his 3yr son Benjamin and came in on 10.45mins - outstanding time for the youngest competitor who beat several runners up to three times his age. Callum Harwood ran with relative ease to record 7.03 and claim runners-up spot in the fun run - although it later appeared that the 12yr son of Sandie won!
12th 4.58 Jon Mansfield
46th 6.28 Mick Morris
51st 6.46 Sandie Harwood
58th 7.03 Callum Harwood
79th 10.45 Benjamin O'Driscoll
80th 10.45 Bas O'Driscoll
A small collective of athletes from Tewkesbury raced over the mile. The event was the Gloucestershire county mile championships as well as part of the Glos road race series (GRRS). Four runners entered the senior event and two collected category medals. Mick Morris finished in the silver medal position after timing 6.28 minutes. Excellent for the V60 runner who has been troubled with knee injuries for two years. Sandie Harwood impressed again. This time the Overbury athlete who, currently occupies second place in the GRRS, produced a 6.46 minute mile to finish second in the LV35 category. Barry O'Driscoll and Jon Mansfield had contrasting races. Mansfield broke the five minute mark for the first time while O'Driscoll ran with his 3yr son Benjamin and came in on 10.45mins - outstanding time for the youngest competitor who beat several runners up to three times his age. Callum Harwood ran with relative ease to record 7.03 and claim runners-up spot in the fun run - although it later appeared that the 12yr son of Sandie won!
12th 4.58 Jon Mansfield
46th 6.28 Mick Morris
51st 6.46 Sandie Harwood
58th 7.03 Callum Harwood
79th 10.45 Benjamin O'Driscoll
80th 10.45 Bas O'Driscoll
Monday, July 10, 2006
Sport Relief Mile
In what can only described as an act of pure vanity, your blogmeister threw caution to the wind and took on all comers at Farmor's School last Friday afternoon. In keeping with custom, I had tapered fully by spending 3 days (and most of 2 nights) keeping year 8 in order on a residential trip, only escaping for an early morning run on the Devon Coastal path. The coach had only been back at school a matter of minutes when I had to change in my office, pull on a pair of trainers and head out for the track. Rivals from the staff were quickly left behind, and I was left to brave the bumps and holes of the school back straight, finishing in a creditable 5:14. Regrettably this was not enough to beat the time of 5:09 set earlier in the day by a sixth former, who also won a fiver in a bet from one of my colleagues. Recovery this weekend was spent in close scrutiny of age - adjusted tables..........
10 mile results, 8&9 July 06
Portland 10 mile.
Mike Ward travelled down to Weymouth to take part in the South-West veteran championship. Ran over a tough course from Portland Bill, Ward finished in a time of 1hr 30 minutes. The journey was more worthwhile as he travelled home with the first place V70 prize!
Severn AC Pilot 10 mile race.
Jason Draper joined two of Tewkesbury AC’s ultra-distance talents on Saturday to be greeted by favourable conditions in Gloucester. Draper grabbed an excellent top ten position after finishing in 1hr 5 minutes. GB International star Sue Bruce followed in 12th place, a little behind the first place woman in a time of 1hr 6 minutes. Finally, globetrotting runner Phillip Howells was content to finish inside the top twenty with an admirable time of 74 minutes.
Mike Ward travelled down to Weymouth to take part in the South-West veteran championship. Ran over a tough course from Portland Bill, Ward finished in a time of 1hr 30 minutes. The journey was more worthwhile as he travelled home with the first place V70 prize!
Severn AC Pilot 10 mile race.
Jason Draper joined two of Tewkesbury AC’s ultra-distance talents on Saturday to be greeted by favourable conditions in Gloucester. Draper grabbed an excellent top ten position after finishing in 1hr 5 minutes. GB International star Sue Bruce followed in 12th place, a little behind the first place woman in a time of 1hr 6 minutes. Finally, globetrotting runner Phillip Howells was content to finish inside the top twenty with an admirable time of 74 minutes.
Aerospace 5, 6/7/06
Jon M reports..
A healthy Tewkesbury AC turnout was evident for this evening event at Bishops Cleeve, as part of the club's own race series which is currently led by Jason Draper and Angie Sadler. The course is not the easiest, starting over grass before slowly climbing up though Southam. This didn’'t have any effect on the club'’s star performer Lisa Kane. The Childswickham based athlete set a new personal best time on a course least expected to produce. Kane, who has recently changed her coach, has slotted in well amongst an improving group of women at the club. First runner to finish for Tewkesbury was Andy Hawkins who proved why he is rated No1 at the club. Hawkins had a top ten finish with a time of 29.01 minutes. Jon Mansfield arrived late and needed to take a running start. A finish time of 30.14 gave the Triathlete 17th position. Club vice-captain Jason Draper made it look easy to finish well inside 32 minutes. Great Britain Ultra-distance team member, Sue Bruce won the lady vets title in 32.17. Ever improving Nigel Tillot run the five miles in under 33 minutes, while Stuart Dudfield did well enough to hold off Steve Wiggall who came in strong at the finish. Roger Bennett ran with caution just nine days after a double cataract operation! Phillip Howells, having just returned from South Africa where he completed one of the toughest races on earth - the 56 mile Comrades marathon, found it a little easier over five miles and came in just under 37 minutes. Club captain Cathy Dudfield came in just after Howells in a comfortable time. Second of the prize winners was Bredon'’s Carol Cowley who ran away with the super vets title with 38.13. Cowley led home Sandie Harwood from neighbouring village Overbury. Mike Ward was yet again first in the V70 category, whilst new boy Wes Read finished the race in just over 45 minutes and one place ahead Bev Thomas who is return to racing after a short injury spell. Anne Robinson produced a run to be pleased with. Robinson appears to have shaken niggling injuries of late to finish 142nd in a record field for this event.
10th - 29.01 Andrew Hawkins
17th - 30.14 Jon Mansfield
27th - 31.42 Jason Draper
32nd - 32.17 Sue Bruce
38th - 32.57 Nigel Tillot
55th - 34.25 Stuart Dudfield
61st - 34.51 Steve Wiggall
62nd - 34.55 Roger Bennett
72nd - 36.58 Phillip Howells
74th - 37.04 Cathy Dudfield
83rd - 38.13 Carol Cowley
92nd - 39.06 Lisa Kane
102nd - 40.27 Sandie Harwood
107th - 40.35 Michael Ward
124th - 45.29 Wesley Reid
125th - 45.35 Beverly Thomas
142nd - 49.35 Anne Robinson
A healthy Tewkesbury AC turnout was evident for this evening event at Bishops Cleeve, as part of the club's own race series which is currently led by Jason Draper and Angie Sadler. The course is not the easiest, starting over grass before slowly climbing up though Southam. This didn’'t have any effect on the club'’s star performer Lisa Kane. The Childswickham based athlete set a new personal best time on a course least expected to produce. Kane, who has recently changed her coach, has slotted in well amongst an improving group of women at the club. First runner to finish for Tewkesbury was Andy Hawkins who proved why he is rated No1 at the club. Hawkins had a top ten finish with a time of 29.01 minutes. Jon Mansfield arrived late and needed to take a running start. A finish time of 30.14 gave the Triathlete 17th position. Club vice-captain Jason Draper made it look easy to finish well inside 32 minutes. Great Britain Ultra-distance team member, Sue Bruce won the lady vets title in 32.17. Ever improving Nigel Tillot run the five miles in under 33 minutes, while Stuart Dudfield did well enough to hold off Steve Wiggall who came in strong at the finish. Roger Bennett ran with caution just nine days after a double cataract operation! Phillip Howells, having just returned from South Africa where he completed one of the toughest races on earth - the 56 mile Comrades marathon, found it a little easier over five miles and came in just under 37 minutes. Club captain Cathy Dudfield came in just after Howells in a comfortable time. Second of the prize winners was Bredon'’s Carol Cowley who ran away with the super vets title with 38.13. Cowley led home Sandie Harwood from neighbouring village Overbury. Mike Ward was yet again first in the V70 category, whilst new boy Wes Read finished the race in just over 45 minutes and one place ahead Bev Thomas who is return to racing after a short injury spell. Anne Robinson produced a run to be pleased with. Robinson appears to have shaken niggling injuries of late to finish 142nd in a record field for this event.
10th - 29.01 Andrew Hawkins
17th - 30.14 Jon Mansfield
27th - 31.42 Jason Draper
32nd - 32.17 Sue Bruce
38th - 32.57 Nigel Tillot
55th - 34.25 Stuart Dudfield
61st - 34.51 Steve Wiggall
62nd - 34.55 Roger Bennett
72nd - 36.58 Phillip Howells
74th - 37.04 Cathy Dudfield
83rd - 38.13 Carol Cowley
92nd - 39.06 Lisa Kane
102nd - 40.27 Sandie Harwood
107th - 40.35 Michael Ward
124th - 45.29 Wesley Reid
125th - 45.35 Beverly Thomas
142nd - 49.35 Anne Robinson
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Calgary Marathon, July 2006
Phil Sadler reports that Angie ran this in 3:15:51, gaining first place in LV45 category, and 3rd lady overall!
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Mallards Pike (and other events!), June 2006
Jon Mansfield reports...
Cooler, overcast conditions greeted Tewkesbury AC athletes on their annual return to the Forest of Dean. Thirteen runners started the event over the official Adidas trial, covering just under 5 miles over a stony, thankfully dry, surface. The event was part of the TAC Club Championship and points were on offer to club runners who completed the course. With just two runners finishing in the top ten this year, Jon Mansfield and Jason Draper who came in 3rd and 10th respectively, the main excitement was further down the field. Roger Bennett was pleased to finish quicker than in 2005 while gifted distance runner, Angie Sadler had to settle for 2nd place lady - local GB international athlete Caroline Jones took top spot. Much improved runner Nigel Tillot again impressed recording 32 minutes for such a demanding course. Most competitive runners of the evening were Barry O'Driscoll and Stuart Dudfield who had a race long battle. Both runners pushed each other to record great times and in doing so set themselves Pb's. O'Driscoll came in 10 yards clear on this occasion. A great, great time was clocked by club captain Cathy Dudfield. She was able to reduce her
course best time by 3 minutes - in just 12 months! A sub 35 minute 5 mile run could be making an appearance later this year from the captain. Finishing in an improving time and, looking very comfortable while doing so was Steve Wiggall. Bredon's Carol Cowley recorded 36.46 minutes while veteran 70yr Mike Ward came in just ahead of Lisa Kane. Kane launched into an impressive burst of speed over the last 30 yards which set several Mallards flying. Finally, it was new club member and former local Rugby
talent Wes Reid who completed the team. Reid is rapidly becoming a runner so, watch this space.
While the adults were running through the trees, a children's race took place, Sue Bruce's son entered and produced a promising performance - by winning the top boys title. Well done Dougie Bruce.
This weekend was the Hilly Half at Bourton-on-the-Water. With a starting field of 245 runners, just two from Tewkesbury AC toed the line. Although conditions were hot, Olympian Dan Robinson still broke his course record in sub 67 minutes! Tewkesbury AC's Sandie Harwood added another half marathon race to her total for the year. Harwood's unlikely to experience such a demanding course for at least 12 months. Sections of the scenic route reduced several runners to walkers, particular those who shot off up the first climb too quickly. Harwood ran with discipline to break the 2 hour mark and come inside the top 180. Jon Mansfield joined a select few who have run all three Hilly Half's. With the race starting at 6pm, Mansfield had time to race the Dambuster Triathlon in Leicestershire in the morning. The Dambuster was a qualifying event for the forthcoming Triathlon world championships in Switzerland. It started at 7am and so did the rain. The race went badly for the shorter distance triathlete as shin splins affected the whole 10km run and was forced to run on tip toes. A finishing time of 2.18hrs and a placing of 128th from 550 meant that a flight to Switzerland was not needed. Nevertheless, after a cold bath and a hot massage the shin splints had cleared enough to get around the Hilly course later.
Mallard's Pike Trial Race Result 21/06/06
29.00 Jon Mansfield
30.41 Jason Draper
31.26 Roger Bennett
31.53 Angie Sadler
32.12 Nigel Tillot
33.31 Bas O'Driscol
33.33 Stuart Dudfield
34.31 Steve Wiggall
35.19 Cathy Dudfield
36.46 Carol Cowley
39.00 Michael Ward
40.14 Lisa Kane
45.20 Wesley Reid
Childrens Event
Dougie Bruce 1st placed boy & 2nd overall.
The Dambuster Triathlon (1500m/42km/10km)
24/06/06
2.18 Jon Mansfield
Bourton Hilly Half Marathon.
24/06/06
1.37.24 Jon Mansfield
1.59.49 Sandie Harwood
Cooler, overcast conditions greeted Tewkesbury AC athletes on their annual return to the Forest of Dean. Thirteen runners started the event over the official Adidas trial, covering just under 5 miles over a stony, thankfully dry, surface. The event was part of the TAC Club Championship and points were on offer to club runners who completed the course. With just two runners finishing in the top ten this year, Jon Mansfield and Jason Draper who came in 3rd and 10th respectively, the main excitement was further down the field. Roger Bennett was pleased to finish quicker than in 2005 while gifted distance runner, Angie Sadler had to settle for 2nd place lady - local GB international athlete Caroline Jones took top spot. Much improved runner Nigel Tillot again impressed recording 32 minutes for such a demanding course. Most competitive runners of the evening were Barry O'Driscoll and Stuart Dudfield who had a race long battle. Both runners pushed each other to record great times and in doing so set themselves Pb's. O'Driscoll came in 10 yards clear on this occasion. A great, great time was clocked by club captain Cathy Dudfield. She was able to reduce her
course best time by 3 minutes - in just 12 months! A sub 35 minute 5 mile run could be making an appearance later this year from the captain. Finishing in an improving time and, looking very comfortable while doing so was Steve Wiggall. Bredon's Carol Cowley recorded 36.46 minutes while veteran 70yr Mike Ward came in just ahead of Lisa Kane. Kane launched into an impressive burst of speed over the last 30 yards which set several Mallards flying. Finally, it was new club member and former local Rugby
talent Wes Reid who completed the team. Reid is rapidly becoming a runner so, watch this space.
While the adults were running through the trees, a children's race took place, Sue Bruce's son entered and produced a promising performance - by winning the top boys title. Well done Dougie Bruce.
This weekend was the Hilly Half at Bourton-on-the-Water. With a starting field of 245 runners, just two from Tewkesbury AC toed the line. Although conditions were hot, Olympian Dan Robinson still broke his course record in sub 67 minutes! Tewkesbury AC's Sandie Harwood added another half marathon race to her total for the year. Harwood's unlikely to experience such a demanding course for at least 12 months. Sections of the scenic route reduced several runners to walkers, particular those who shot off up the first climb too quickly. Harwood ran with discipline to break the 2 hour mark and come inside the top 180. Jon Mansfield joined a select few who have run all three Hilly Half's. With the race starting at 6pm, Mansfield had time to race the Dambuster Triathlon in Leicestershire in the morning. The Dambuster was a qualifying event for the forthcoming Triathlon world championships in Switzerland. It started at 7am and so did the rain. The race went badly for the shorter distance triathlete as shin splins affected the whole 10km run and was forced to run on tip toes. A finishing time of 2.18hrs and a placing of 128th from 550 meant that a flight to Switzerland was not needed. Nevertheless, after a cold bath and a hot massage the shin splints had cleared enough to get around the Hilly course later.
Mallard's Pike Trial Race Result 21/06/06
29.00 Jon Mansfield
30.41 Jason Draper
31.26 Roger Bennett
31.53 Angie Sadler
32.12 Nigel Tillot
33.31 Bas O'Driscol
33.33 Stuart Dudfield
34.31 Steve Wiggall
35.19 Cathy Dudfield
36.46 Carol Cowley
39.00 Michael Ward
40.14 Lisa Kane
45.20 Wesley Reid
Childrens Event
Dougie Bruce 1st placed boy & 2nd overall.
The Dambuster Triathlon (1500m/42km/10km)
24/06/06
2.18 Jon Mansfield
Bourton Hilly Half Marathon.
24/06/06
1.37.24 Jon Mansfield
1.59.49 Sandie Harwood
Comrades Marathon, June 2006
Phillip Howells reports...
For the record, this was my 3rd Comrades marathon (for those who have not been subject to my ravings about this great event, it is in South Africa, ran between Durban and Pietermaritzberg, with many hills including fivefamous big ones, and either approx 89km/56mls or 87.5km/54.5mls depending on if a 'down' or 'up' race - this year an up, so the shorter distance!) and I did a pb time of 8-56-13, thus earning the much coveted 'Bill Rowan' medal that is awarded for beating 9 hours (there are five different medal types depending on time, with a very strict 12 hours limit - 12 hrs and 1 sec means no medal or a recognised finish, you are not even allowed to cross the finish line, which makes the end very dramatic indeed; there are always many runners still out on the course, or even in the stadium as the 'gun' signals the end). Naturally I was delighted to achieve a major goal for this year
after missing it by less than 15 minutes when I last ran in 2004. Some of you have met my fellow UK runners Edward Chapman, who did 11-40 (for his 6th finish), and Colin Gill ('Gilly') who did 11-12 (his 4th).
To put my time in perspective, it meant running 2 back-to-back 4-18 marathons plus a couple of extra miles at an average pace of 9-54 per mile; also achieved a pretty rare 'negative' split along the way, 4-28-44 first half and 4-27-29 second, which I was impressed with! Can't take the credit for that really, even though I usually judge pace pretty well, but decided I would go with the pacemaker 'bus' for a sub-9hour run.
It proved to be a good decision. As 2 years ago, I caught the 'bus' after about 30kms following my usual very steady start, but rather than go ahead like I did in 2004, going through half way in under 4-15 then, but finishing in 9-13, I decided to stay with the pacemaker. This was a totally different experience to running on my own and it taught me a lot - as well as getting me that medal. After all the niggles of the last two months, amazingly the run was just perfect, ran well with no problems at all, and we were still running at 8min mile pace at the end (there was a lot of walking as well - the best strategy to finish in good shape, even many of the very top guys walk some of the way). I eventually finished 2,321 of 9,838 finishers. Hope
to go back at least once more in 2007 to celebrate the fact that I will be 60 then - I'd recommend it to anyone wanting to experience something different which is also a big challenge. The South Africans are mad about it, the crowds are huge and very enthusiastic! Angie and I certainly plan it for 2007, and I think Sue has an invitation to compete as well.
Talking about Angie, Amanda and I supported her when she ran a leg of the Cotswold Relay for Cheltenham Ladies yesterday (we ran the leg behind the field, mainly off-road in superb scenery on a fabulous day). She of course won the Ladies prize for the 12 mile leg in 1-27, finishing an excellent 11th from over 60 teams and, with our own Carol who ran an earlier leg, being part of the winning Ladies team for the 105 miles event (which has 10 legs). There was a really great atmosphere with obvious commited team spirit amongst the many teams. Many of you know that Angie is very enthusiastic about this race and having experienced it myself, I think it would be great if we could put a Tewkesbury AC team together for next year (can be a mixed
team). Think we already have 7 or 8 interested club members; it is in my diary for this weekend next year despite it being the week after Comrades, but that does not matter, the time is not as important as the team effort, so hope a few more of you will want to join us?
For the record, this was my 3rd Comrades marathon (for those who have not been subject to my ravings about this great event, it is in South Africa, ran between Durban and Pietermaritzberg, with many hills including fivefamous big ones, and either approx 89km/56mls or 87.5km/54.5mls depending on if a 'down' or 'up' race - this year an up, so the shorter distance!) and I did a pb time of 8-56-13, thus earning the much coveted 'Bill Rowan' medal that is awarded for beating 9 hours (there are five different medal types depending on time, with a very strict 12 hours limit - 12 hrs and 1 sec means no medal or a recognised finish, you are not even allowed to cross the finish line, which makes the end very dramatic indeed; there are always many runners still out on the course, or even in the stadium as the 'gun' signals the end). Naturally I was delighted to achieve a major goal for this year
after missing it by less than 15 minutes when I last ran in 2004. Some of you have met my fellow UK runners Edward Chapman, who did 11-40 (for his 6th finish), and Colin Gill ('Gilly') who did 11-12 (his 4th).
To put my time in perspective, it meant running 2 back-to-back 4-18 marathons plus a couple of extra miles at an average pace of 9-54 per mile; also achieved a pretty rare 'negative' split along the way, 4-28-44 first half and 4-27-29 second, which I was impressed with! Can't take the credit for that really, even though I usually judge pace pretty well, but decided I would go with the pacemaker 'bus' for a sub-9hour run.
It proved to be a good decision. As 2 years ago, I caught the 'bus' after about 30kms following my usual very steady start, but rather than go ahead like I did in 2004, going through half way in under 4-15 then, but finishing in 9-13, I decided to stay with the pacemaker. This was a totally different experience to running on my own and it taught me a lot - as well as getting me that medal. After all the niggles of the last two months, amazingly the run was just perfect, ran well with no problems at all, and we were still running at 8min mile pace at the end (there was a lot of walking as well - the best strategy to finish in good shape, even many of the very top guys walk some of the way). I eventually finished 2,321 of 9,838 finishers. Hope
to go back at least once more in 2007 to celebrate the fact that I will be 60 then - I'd recommend it to anyone wanting to experience something different which is also a big challenge. The South Africans are mad about it, the crowds are huge and very enthusiastic! Angie and I certainly plan it for 2007, and I think Sue has an invitation to compete as well.
Talking about Angie, Amanda and I supported her when she ran a leg of the Cotswold Relay for Cheltenham Ladies yesterday (we ran the leg behind the field, mainly off-road in superb scenery on a fabulous day). She of course won the Ladies prize for the 12 mile leg in 1-27, finishing an excellent 11th from over 60 teams and, with our own Carol who ran an earlier leg, being part of the winning Ladies team for the 105 miles event (which has 10 legs). There was a really great atmosphere with obvious commited team spirit amongst the many teams. Many of you know that Angie is very enthusiastic about this race and having experienced it myself, I think it would be great if we could put a Tewkesbury AC team together for next year (can be a mixed
team). Think we already have 7 or 8 interested club members; it is in my diary for this weekend next year despite it being the week after Comrades, but that does not matter, the time is not as important as the team effort, so hope a few more of you will want to join us?
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