If running across muddy farmer’s fields through waist deep ponds and climbing haystacks is your idea of fun then Farmyard Frolics could be the race for you. The event has been off the calendar for a couple of years but has now been revived by The Meningitis Trust.
Teams and individual runners had to negotiate various obstacles as they made their way around the 10k cross country course at Brooksby Melton College's Spinney campus. Obstacles included a straw bale tower, wading through a brook, tractor tyre pile and crawling through a straw tunnel.
Many of the 250 finishers got into the 'farmyard' spirit by dressing up in cow and cat costumes as well as other wacky wear including a team of men dressed in drag, a man dressed up as the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, complete with inflatable crocodile, and even Spiderman himself to name a few.
Four Striders took part in the event. Graham Potter finished just outside the hour mark with Leanne Ward and Samantha Lester running together in 1.08. Mags Parkin, 1.20 made up the quartet. All enjoyed the fun and will be back next year.
Stan Thornton had a ride up to Cleethorpes on Sunday to take part in the Thorpe Park 10K.It was a lovely day weather wise and I managed to complete the run in 52.54 quite enjoyed and it is a nice ride up there.
On Sunday 9th November 9 Members of Sleaford Striders AC travelled to Boston to run the 5 mile Poppy run in aid of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 90th Anniversary of Armistice day..It was a cold, Windy day,but luckily the rain that had been around all week had been blown away leaving a dry run.At 11 oclock the wistle was blown to start the 1 minutes silence in honour of all fallen comrades. After the minutes silence the race was started with 111 Runners Sasha Siddons came along to support the other striders, there to cheer them all off and cheer everyone back in, .Jon Siddons Came in in 4th place in a time of 27:25 Also collecting a trophie for 3rd in his age group. Next in was Alan Oliver in a time of 30:13, and if it hadn't been for the very strong head wind for about 1 1/2 miles is sure to have got a sub 30 minute time.Jane James was next in 33:47 collecting a trophie for 1st in her age group. Alan Buckberry came in in a time of 36:06 believeing it was a PB for this race and as always running out to help the last of the striders runners in. Stan Thornton came in 42:32. Next in was Leanne Ward in a time of 44:41, a PB for this distance which she was pleased about considering the wind. Then came Lyndsey Nemeiksas in a time of 47:00 Finding the wind a struggle, but enjoyed the race. Jane, Leanne and Lyndsey also got the 2nd female team. Samuel James was disappointed that the fun run was cancelled but in true Striders fashion ran with a lady that needed someone to guide her and came in with her in a time of 56:01 a real credit to our Junior members.
Graham Potter travelled to Birmingham to take part in the Inaugural EDF Half Marathon. Overnight rain stopped just in time for the start of this race. The course was very difficult with the constant undulations of the traffic underpasses and the altitude of the finish being some 150 feet above the start. The race was started by triple jumper Aisha Hansen at the Alexander Stadium and went into the city centre to be encouraged by thousands of cheering Brummies. It went out to the leafy suburb of Edgbaston before returning to the city to finish along Broad Street. The organization by Birmingham City Council in their first attempt was superb for a race of this size.
Graham finished in 1 hour 42 minutes 18 seconds in 800 th place out of 7,000. He was pleased with his time as it was his third fastest over this distance and recons this race has the potential to challenge the Great North Run as the biggest half marathon in the country.
This is a charity running and walking marathon in aid of the Wheel Appeal Charity. The Spires & Steeples Challenge was well organised by Leisure Connection and artsNK in partnership with Sleaford Town Runners and North Kesteven District Council
Five Striders took part the challenge- a waymarked arts and heritage trail linking the many beautiful villages between Lincoln and Sleaford. Former world strongman Geoff Capes signalled the start of the race featuring about 50 runners from Lincoln’s historic castle. The route began with a tricky descent down steep hill and then followed the new long distance cycle and walkway that links Lincoln with Boston for two miles to Washingborough. Thereafter the course featured a mixture of cross-country and road terrain taking in the villages of Branston, Potterhanworth, Nocton and Dunston before reaching Metheringham. At 12 miles this marked the finish for 4 Striders who crossed the line together in 2 hours 8 minutes to cries of “here come the Sleaford mob” from the gathered well wishers.
Bex Bloor was really pleased with her performance - running at this distance for the first time. Lea Ward enjoyed the trail but felt that more visible waymarkers would have prevented runners taking a wrong turn in Washingborough. Both Andy Preston and Jon Hird were pleased to have the opportunity to run this distance over varied and at times challenging terrain, in preparation for the forthcoming cross-country season.
Graham Potter elected to take on the full trail length of 26 miles and carried onto Sleaford in a time of 4 hours 56 minutes. This was his third marathon of the year and by far the toughest. The whole distance was run into a strong headwind but at least it didn’t rain and the ground was firm.
All runners were presented with a certificate and t-shirt.
Stan Thornton followed the GNR by running the G.E.R. in 2hrs 08mins. What a differance between these races, 52,000 runners in the G.N.R. and 3,000 in the G.E.R. both with much sun but the G.N.R.was much cooler. I would recomend both of these runs,the main trouble is that they are too close to each other.It is just as well that the G.E.R.is very flat as I was quite shattered running it,I do think I could have run under 2hrs.if it wasn,t so close to the G.N.R.
Gary Wilson and Linda Melloy traveled to Newcastle to compete in the Great North Run. This mass race is always a brilliant event with runners from all over the world gathering to complete the 13.1 mile course. Strating in the centre of Nwecastle the runners fininsh by the sea at South shields. Gary and Linda ran together and knocked 2 minuites of their time from last year completing the course in 2:28.
Stan Thornton also ran the G.N.R in 2hrs.11mins.
On Sunday six members of Sleaford Striders Athletic Club made the trip to West Pinchbeck near Spalding to run in the Annual 10k race. The course is a pleasant and fast country route through the pleasant Lincolnshire countryside.
First Strider to complete the course and in third place overall was John Siddens. John ran a brilliant race and crossed the line with a time of 34:45. Not far behind was new runner Alan Oliver, Alan is looking forward to the cross country season and should do well as he finished this race in just 38:08 (PB). Next Strider back was Ed Brown. Ed had been targeting a sub 40 min 10k run all year and this was to be his race with a superb 39:21. Fellow member of the Sleaford Triathlon team Terry Grant was the next strider to complete the run proving he is an all round sportsman getting a time of 42:56. First female Strider to finish and in 92nd place overall was Anna Thompson, Anna races most weekends and consistently produces strong results. Her time for this race was 49:46. Stanley Thornton was using this race as a taper run before travelling to Newcastle for the Great North Run. He ran a steady race and recorded a time of 53:47.
Paul Harrap set a PB for this 7 mile road race in 49.21. He finished 43rd out of 95.
A 6.30 coach departure from Sleaford meant some 25 tired Striders and supporters arrived for the 3rd staging of the running event in Mablethorpe. 3 distances were on offer, 10k, half and full marathons All courses were pancake flat ensuring some fast times. As last year the weather was sunny and very breezy. Sasha noted that the runners were brilliant - well done guys!
Striders took the 2nd place team prize. 274 runners completed the 10k course with John Siddens finishing third overall and was first male vet to cross the line in 36 minutes dead. He found the race was well organized and it was a good 10k course but the wind along the sea front made it a race for position rather than time. He was disappointed with not reaching his target of sub 35. Alan Oliver (12th 39.47) also found the going tough along the beachside with the highlight of his day was the team prize. Edward Brown (17th 40.48) was the third member of the trophy team and will surely break the 40 minute barrier before long. Paul Shaw (119th 55.02 PB) Enjoyed the run and recorded a personal best. Julie Hanks (178th 1.00.45) in her proper race for a year was delighted to be back racing again. She loves the camaraderie of the club and will be back here. Karen Robertson (210th 1.07.42) had a good day out but also wasn’t expecting the wind. Mellani Jackson (211th 1.07.45) had an excellent day out, not expecting the strong wind she found the run hard. She also enjoyed the team spirit and is really glad that she joined Sleaford Striders.
267 runners completed the half marathon course which shares it’s latter stage with the full marathon course. Jane James (47th 1.34.04) was really pleased with her time. Alan Buckberry (86th 1.41.21) enjoyed the race and found it well marshalled. He thought some of the water stations could have been better placed. Ian Hanks (102nd 1.44.32) said ‘for with a course that is so flat why is it so hard’. Ted Preston (127th 1.49.39) ran well but would have preferred to run the full marathon. He enjoyed the great compant from his fellow club members. Garry Wilson (138th 1.51.16) had a lonely race but was pleased with is time which was 32 minutes quicker than here last year which shows great improvement. He also praised the organization by Maria Buckberry. Anna Thompson (173rd 1.55.58). Clive Holden (181st 1.57.13) finished 20 minutes faster than a week previously at Swaffham and gives credit to Samantha for her support. Samantha Lester (182nd 1.57.13) had a great day out and was just 6 seconds away from a personal best time. She enjoyed the run and even the freezing cold shower was refreshing! Lyndsay Nemeiksas (237th 2.13.13) on her first club day out and first half marathon had a great time and enjoyed the experience. Leanne Ward (238th 2.13.14) felt good afterwards and is pleased to be back running long distances again. Linda Melloy (245th 2.24.14) was a minute slower than last year after deciding to run on her own and wished she hadn’t. Lorraine Vince (254th 2.36.44 PB) finished her first half marathon after only taking up the sport 15 months ago enjoyed the whole experience – what a star!
Numbers were down on last year with only 121 finishers. Graham Potter (35th 3.38.59) in his ninth full marathon finished just outside his personal best time. He started strongly getting to the half way point in 1.37then started to slow in the final 5 or so miles. With just half a mile to go he suffered cramp in both legs simultaneously reducing him to walking pace for a couple of minutes. He got going again to cross the line with a flourish before collapsing shortly afterwards and then spent half an hour in the capable hands of the Lincolnshire Integrated Voluntary Emergency Service (LIVES) . He would also like to thank his fellow club mates for their help and concern, this shows what a great club Sleaford Striders are. Paul Harrap (67th 3.57.45) was some 20 minutes slower than his fastest time set in London this year. Andy Preston (82nd 4.07.36 PB) was pleased that he completed his first full marathon. Unfortunately after having a good first half things went wrong after 16 miles with his knee injury causing agony.
Only two Striders went to Swaffam in Norfolk to run the Wissey Half Marathon. A low key event with just 200 runners this race was run over quiet rural roads in the villages around Oxbrough Hall. The course was quite flat and despite the promise of rain the weather stayed good till after the runners had nearly finished.
Michelle Hird was running her first half Marathon having only taken up running less than a year ago. All her training throughout the summer paid off and she ran the whole distance with Clive Holden. They maintained a steady pace with every mile being within a few seconds of each other and passing many people in the last few miles. As they crossed the finish line the clock was showing 2:18
John Siddens ran in the Lincoln Wellington 5k series. This competition is run over the summer and consists of 4 hotly contested 5 kilometre races. John ran consistently throughout the series and with a best time of 16m 34s came second in the final table. Alan Oliver a new runner who is developing at a terrific rate also ran in the race last Wednesday and a very fast 18m 29s gave him third place on the night.
4 Members of Sleaford Striders made the tip to Irnham for the second of this years Beer bashes. Irnham proved to be a very pretty 5 mile course with a selection of hills, a ford and a mile on a bridle way. Beer bashes are 5 mile runs that start and finish at a country pub and runners are rewarded for their efforts with a beer glass and a pint to go in it. Edward Brown was the first Strider back in 4th place with a time of 34.16. Anna McKenzie was the next Strider back to the Griffin covering the difficult 5 mile course in a superb 42.2 giving her 18 place. Paul Shaw continued his return to running and enjoyed a time of 48.37. Leanne ward in her third multi terrain race in three weeks found the going difficult but still achieved 52.31.
Bank holiday Monday was the 24th Grimsthorpe 10k race. This Multi terrain run was introduced to the Sleaford Striders calendar several years ago by Graham Potter and is now well established as a Club event. The slick organisation and brilliant marshals make for a great day out. The event is a family day for Striders with partners and offspring being invited for a picnic and an opportunity to see what running is all about. The Grimsthorpe Castle Show is a good event and the fact that it raises funds for St Johns Ambulance is an added bonus.
The course starts with a steep downhill grass section that would be great if it not that all the way round you know that you will finish by running up the same gradient. The route is in the best traditions of multi terrain running and takes competitors on road, track, field and meadow. Run entirely within the estate of Grimsthorpe to course is traffic free and Striders extend their thanks to Bourne Town Runners for hosting a brilliant event.The fun run is 3k and 16 of the 174 starters were Sleaford Striders. They were to make Coaches and Parents proud and show that are the future of Athletics by returning some sensational results. Unfortunately this event was not timed however finish positions were recorded and James finished 7th with Adam close on his heels in 10th, place Max finished 22nd, Freja in her first run since a long rest due to a broken arm was first female Strider (36th), Gabe showed his potential for the cross country season( 61st), due to the race starting 5 mins early Joe set out as the rest of the competitors were already 500 metres in front of him. He overtook 112 other runners to finish 62nd , Rhiannon Hastings beat her Dad and finished 67th, Bethany Preston ran confidently and came in 78th, Just a week after beating the train in a great race in Wales Maria finished 80th, George ran a great race 81st , Benjamin was not far behind 86, Harvey who just loves to run made 100th , India prefers the shorter runs and is a future sprinter demonstrated that she is an all round athlete 102nd , Alfie also fresh from the track meeting last week was a fast and confident 103rd William ran with his dad way but was ultimately to show him the way home 152nd, Whilst Dad Alex had to settle for 153rd .
In the adult 10k event 20 striders took part in a field of 385. Ed fresh from his run in the London triathlon ran a superb 42.29, Sandy another Tri-athlete was second strider home (43.13), Andy is determined to get a better pb than his coach and finished in 43.26, Graham was back from holiday to compete and his training was rewarded with a 45.54 pb for the course, Alan still with race the train in his legs did a great 46.20, Ian another race the train veteran was just over a minute behind 47.36, Jon beat his time from last week 50.24, Philip in his first run on this course finished strongly in 50.59, Joan was first Female Strider 52.42, Ted battled injury and fell on the course but still finished in 53.48, Mark in his first event as a Strider ran a very good 54.46, Anna Was second Lady Strider 55.39, Clive nearly 10 minutes off his average for this race 59.15, Maureen demonstrated that coaching throws and running can mix 60.11, Leanne and Annie ran together and crossed the line with beaming smiles 63.25, Michelle another Monday night runner was a fast 65.26, Jackie proved the benefit of training 63.24, Fiona was running for the running for the first time at this distance and was raising sponsorship for Church Lane School 73.58, Jo also running her first 10k and raising money for Church Lane School 76.45. well done to all the runners and thank you to the friends and family that came along and cheered all the runners in .
Sleaford Standard Report by Clive
Sunday 10th August saw the 27th Newark Half Marathon get under way, with a 863 strong field of runners challenging for what was to be a congested start, trying to avoid obstacles being cars and bollards in their way. They made their way the town, leading out to the country roads and villages where they were welcomed and applauded by a good turn out of spectators who were out in their numbers along the route to offer support and encouragement to the runners trying to succeed on a warm yet windy day.
The course was fairly flat with a few gentle inclines, until the runners reached the added challenge of "9 mile hill", where it went up hill at some assent, not enjoyed by several runners, who struggled and walked. The runners then carried on winding their way through the streets, and then met another hill at 11 mile mark, which again for some was not welcomed. Still, battling on towards the 13 mile, where they enjoyed the extra help of a long down hill stretch, where they turned and ran to the finish at Market Square, where yet again, the crowd were so encouraging and cheerful with applause.
Sleaford Striders were fielding a handful of runners, who all seemed to enjoy the event.
The first person to bring Striders home was Andy Preston, who after gaining his PB at Mansfield recently, and said he was using this run as training purposes, broke his PB again by over 2 minutes. His time was 1hour 35minutes 49seconds (PB) in 185th place. He was followed in by Alan Buckberry who had a very good run, beating last year's time by 9 minutes, giving him a very respectable time of 1hour 39minutes 57seconds in 275th place.
The other Striders were Andy Taylor 1h40m30sec in 284th, Robert Heathcote 1h52m04sec in 491st, Cathy Davies 2h12m37sec in 758th, Stanley Thornton 2h15m15sec in 773rd and our last Strider home was Paul Shaw running his first half marathon since he was 19 years old came in 2h17m18sec in786th (PB).
Well done to the organisers and all the spectators who made this run memorable and enjoyable.
As the rain fell in Sleaford 7 members of Sleaford Striders made the trip to Burton Le Coggles near Grantham for the second running of the Burton Beer Bash. Hosted at The Chumley Arms. The Burton Beer Bash is a 5 mile multi terrain fun run it combines some running on tracks and paths with the last few miles run on quiet country roads. Unusually for Lincolnshire the course is very hilly with seldom more than a few metres of flat running. They arrived in Burton to find sunshine that was to be there for most of the run. A small shower as they set off and another one 20 minutes later were refreshing rather than a problem.
Andy Preston was the first Strider to finish proving that the dedication to training is paying off he completed the 5 miles in 34.23 with a strong run down the hill to the line. Second Strider was Garry Wilson again proving that the technical training works with a brilliant time of 39.08. Old hand Ted Preston is on his way back to previous form and used the run as training for Race The Train, he got back to the pub in 42.04. Paul Shaw has been fitting his running around work commitments and running in his familiar bandana ran down the hill with a big smile to Finnish this challenging run with a time of 46.05. Leanne Ward was also using this run to get ready for Race The Train in two weeks time and finished in 46.56 less than a minute behind Gary. Linda Melloy and Annie Giles showed the spirit of club running, they ran together and helped each other whenever they were struggling and made the coaches proud by crossing the line together in 51.08.
All runners were rewarded with a Beer Glass and a free pint to go in it. Most of the competitors stayed behind for a friendly drink and a chance to talk about their run. The results were given out before they left and all agreed to meet again at the Irnham Beer Bash at the end of the month.
There were 7 Sleaford Striders amongst a field of 50 runners that travelled to the second Running of The Burton Beer Bash 5 mile Run in conjunction with PJ's pie pub at Burton Coggles near Grantham
Both Linda Melloy and Annie Giles ran together all the way in great spirits coming in together joint 46th in a time of 51:08
Saturday 2nd August saw the continuing success of a locally organised race through a small and tranquil location of Burton-le-Coggles.
With the sky opening up before the race, bringing showers to the 50 runners lining up, it never stopped the bubbly atmosphere had by all, as everybody who finished seemed to enjoy the occassion.
A very challenging and undulating course running through quiet country lanes, with several hills led the runners to a part of the course (approximately 1.5 miles) which was over farm tracks edges of fields and a gate/sty. Once successfully weaving through this area, they were bought back onto the country lanes again with another couple of hills to battle against. This then became the long downhill stretch to the finish where a well deserved drink was waiting for the finishers, with much appreciation.
Sleaford Striders was represented by 7 of there club runners. The first Strider home was Andy Preston who had a very pleasing race and finished in 8th place in a decent time of 34mins23secs. Gary Wilson came home the second Strider, with a very respectable time, (a lot quicker than he set off aiming for) in 39mins08secs and 22nd position. Ted Preston was the third Strider home. He ran his best performance in a while after suffering from an injury that had put him out of action for some time. He came home 34th place with 42mins04secs. The other Striders were Paul Shaw in 41st 46mins05secs, Leanne Ward closely following in 43rd place in 46mins56secs. The final two striders came home showing what team running is all about by crossing the line hand in hand in joint 46th place with a time of 51mins08secs.
Congratulations to all 50 runners who finished the course, and a big appreciation and thanks go to the race organiser Anna Favell, and the pub Cholmesley Arms aka PJpies.
As usual, scorching hot weather greeted a score of Sleaford Striders at the Heckington Show 10 mile road race. The race was hosted for the first time by Sleaford Town Runners and was very well organized in every aspect. This event has been on a bit of a downward spiral over the last few years but with 157 finishers this doubles last year’s number. Thanks also go to the unofficial drinks stop at Star Fen.
Sandy Telfer was the first Strider to finish in 33rd place overall in a time of 1 hour 10 minutes 41 seconds. Newcomer Edward Brown (40th, 1.12.06 PB) in his first attempt at this distance made more remarkable for the fact that he forgot his shoes and luckily borrowed a spare pair from Andy Preston. Paul Harrap (46th, 1.13.57 PB). Andy Preston (50th, 1.14.22 PB) had an excellent day and said that it was a good team event. Graham Potter (53rd, 1.15.14) just missed out on a personal best but this was his fastest time in his eighth consecutive run here. Alan Buckberry (68th, 1.19.06) another veteran of this course knocked 5 minutes off his time last year. Jon Hird (92nd, 1.24.56 PB) had a fantastic day out and enjoyed the hose down half way round. Joan Hastings (110th, 1.29.36 PB) also a first-timer recorded a fantastic result. Sarah Miller (121st, 1.33.42) noted the fantastic support from the marshals. Garry Willson (127th, 1.37.26 PB) also 10 mile first-timer enjoyed the 2-lap format. Samantha Lester (137th, 1.45.56) was 15 minutes slower than last year which is testament to the terrific heat on the day; she said the great goody bag was worth the pain. Anna Thompson (138th, 1.45.59) was 9 minutes slower than the previous year but enjoyed the hose down on the second lap. Leanne Ward (142nd, 1.49.19) was 12 minutes slower than in 2007 and said that the heat scuppered any thought of a PB. Lyndsay Nemeiksas (143rd, 1.49.20 PB) in her first 10 mile race was pleased to finish. Michelle Hird (146th, 1.50.52 PB) was glad just have finished. Emma Marshall (154th, 2.11.58 ) still recovering from a back injury, ran an extra lap to assist Karen Robertson ( 153rd, 2.11.58). Linda Melloy (156th, 2.19.45. PB) found the going hard but was pleased that she did it. Lorraine Vince (157th, 2.19.45 PB) made hard work of it but was glad to finish. Jane James wasn’t runing well so she decided to retire after the first lap. Clive Holden was on hand at the finish line with a nice cool beer for the finishers.
It is heart warming to see the team spirit shown here from Emma who symbolizes what Sleaford Striders is all about.
Paul Harrap ran in the last of the series 10Km at The Queen Mothers Reservoir in Windsor.
He finished 24th out of 141 in a time of 44mins 02 to finish 5th overall in the Race series.
Friday evening was the annual 5 mile Dash, held at Branston, through their small village and surrounding area, incorporating roads and tracks along with fields and streams.
It was a two lap course starting near the Waggon and Horses pub, approaching a steady incline which lead to tracks and fields, where the fun started. It had rained heavily earlier through the evening, making the course muddy and slippery in places, but a good cross country section made it enjoyable for most runners involved.
Three runners from Sleaford Striders challenged the course, and finished in good spirits. The three involved were Edward Brown, who was the first Strider home in 33 minutes 00 seconds finishing in 11th place, he was closely followed by Andy Preston who came home in 17th place with 34 minutes 16 seconds. Alan Buckberry made up the third member of the team, finishing in 36 minutes 07 seconds with 25th position.
There were 66 people who entered the race, and having spoke to several of the runners afterwards, it seemed as though it was a successful event yet again for the organizers.
A new ‘challenging’ course had been used for 2008, which incorporates some of the original route of the race held in the 80’s and 90’s. The course can best be described as very undulating with several long downhill sections and some moderately steep inclines.
The race was well populated with members of the public cheering the runners on and the circular nature of the course provided several opportunities for spectators to easily view the runners at more than one point during the race.
It was very windy in places with heavy downpours throughout the morning, which did not make it easy for the runners or pleasant viewing conditions for the spectators, but spirits remained high.
Andy Preston represented Sleaford Striders. It was his first attempt at Mansfield, and despite all the undulating hills and heavy downpours, he came home with a P.B. He smashed his previous P.B. by 6 minutes, giving him a respectable and pleasing time of 1hour 37minutes and 46seconds, he finished in 167th place out of 665 finishing runners.
Matt Ballentyne finished 8th in 17 minutes 41 seconds.
This was an out-and-back affair to Ewerby through Kirkby La Thorpe. Jane James was the first Strider home in a time of 58 minutes 55 seconds, not far behind were Andy Preston (59.27) and Graham Potter (60.39). Other Striders to finish were Lindsay Nemeiksas (87.10) and Linda Melloy (90.05). All runners found the going tough as a headwind appeared from ‘nowhere’ on the return leg.
Paul Harrap fininshed 27th out of 173 in a time of 46 mins 32 Secs, definately not a PB Race!!
This is a 15 mile mostly off-roader around the Rother Valley Country Park. The race which is well organized by the Killamarsh Kestrels Running Club continues to grow in popularity and is very cheap to enter. Graham Potter (2.05.35, 44th out of 109) finished 10 minutes faster than last year and really enjoyed the free home-made cakes at the end.
Paul Harrap finished 12th out of 91 in a time of 43 Mins dead.
Andy Preston competed in yet another 10k, his time of 42.56 gave him 64th place out of 221.
82 runners completed the Ropsley 6 mile road race on Wednesday 4th June. Striders were represented by Andy Preston (17th 41.56), Alan Buckberry (27th 44.10) and Karl Aubrey (32nd 44.41).
Paul Harrap finished 8th out of 15 in 20 Mins 15 Sec.
Woodhall Spa held its annual 10km race from Jubilee Park, with a fabulous amount of entrants. 1082 entered the event with 937 finishing the race , and over 200 for the fun run. The day started of with heavy rain, but stopped before the race began, leaving pleasurable conditions for runners of all standards to enjoy the day, with rain starting again after the race, in the afternoon. This was the first year Chip timing was used at Woodhall, giving an extra bonus to the race, so actual timings could be recorded accurately with large number of entrants.
Striders were well represented in numbers in both juniors and seniors taking part. 17 seniors ran the 10km race with some people coming out with P.B’s.
The following shows how well the club is doing, and how strong our runners are coming on in their own performances:
All times and positions done by Chip.
1st Strider home was Jane James, who found conditions to be tough towards the end of the race, but still came home in 129th in 42minutes 11seconds
2nd Strider home was Andy Preston , enjoying the course, found the conditions good enough to get a good run on Sunday 145th in 42minutes 44seconds (P.B)
3rd Strider home was Terry Grant who said he was happy to get a 10km under his belt, and he did well on the day finishing 153rd in 42minutes 55seconds.
The rest of the striders came in as follows:
Alan Buckberry 183rd 43minutes 50seconds
Vince McNiffe 208th 44minutes 32seconds
Karl Aubrey 214th 44minutes 24seconds
Paul Hardy 225th 44minutes 56seconds
Sarah Miller 368th 47minutes 32seconds
Emma Gray 450th 49minutes 48seconds
Kevin Bailey 574th 53minutes 28seconds
Anna Thompson 591st 53minutes 20seconds
Cathy Davies 642nd 54minutes 52seconds
Lyndsay Nemeiksas 721st 57minutes 29seconds
Lorraine Vince 877th 1hour 06minutes 45seconds (P.B)
Karren Robertson 880th 1hour 06minutes 51seconds
Pete Haywood 895th 1hour 08minutes 25seconds
Melanie Jackson 897th 1hour 08minutes 56seconds
Congratulations to everybody who ran, and hope you all had a good day.
Maureen Runacres completed her first marathon in 4 hours 39 minutes.
Report to follow...
Graham Potter took part in an 8K race in Vancouver, Canada. The course runs through the undulating, historic, residential streets of Shaughnessy and Kerrisdale.
A time of 36.42 gave him 78th place out of 317. It also ensured a personal best as this was the first time over this distance!
Paul Harrap finished the race in 42 Mins 43 setting a new PB finishing 10th out of 87.
This was the second running of the Sleaford 10k. The event was organized by Sleaford Striders to raise funds for the 3rd Sleaford Scout Group.
Of the 141 finishers, 35 up on 2007, 21 were from the Striders Club. The weather was a lot cooler than last year giving some excellent times. The one lap route started and finished in Scredington and went through the rural almost car-free countryside to Burton Pedwardine.
All runners received a medal, free hot drink with many taking advantage of a massage.
The race was won by Mark Greenwood from the Army Athletic Association in 33 minutes 04 seconds. The first Lady was Debra Mason from Rotherham Harriers (35.45). John Siddens was third overall and Jane James was third lady. Alan Buckberry won the M55 category, Jane James along with Sarah Miller and Anna Thompson took the ladies team prize.
Striders finishers: John Siddens (3rd 34.23), Nick Reet (11th 38.06 PB), Alexander Telfer (25th 41.07), Jane James (29th 34.23), Graham Potter (37th 42.56 PB), Andy Preston (39th 43.06), Alan Buckberry (44th 44.33), Paul Hardy (56th 45.39), Ted Preston (59th 45.52), Mark Cozens (71st 48.01), Sarah Miller (76th 48.36), John Hird (88th 50.51), Anna Thompson (104th 54.05), Leanne Ward (107th 54.19 PB), Maureen Runacres (110th 54.54), Lyndsay Nimeiksas (121st 57.53), Michelle Hird (131st 62.46), Paul Shaw (134th 64.25), Karen Robertson (138th 69.09), Lorraine Vince (139th 69.18), Pete Hayward (140th 71.12).
On a very warm day that saw temperatures reaching the mid 20c before the race started.
Annie Giles tackled her first 10km race and it proved to be a baptism of fire quite literally. Her steady start paid just rewards for a sprint finish to end in 416th place recording 63.15mins. Stan Thornton found his legs were still suffering from the London Marathon and finished just behind Annie in 429th place for a 64.24mins time. The first Strider across the line was Peter Nadin in 360th place in a time of 57.03mins. All agreed that the weather played a major factor in the times and others runners felt that most lost 5-6 mins on their expected times.
A well organized and marshaled event that attracted 485 finishers in the 10k with over 100 in the 3k Fun Run.
Paul Harrap ran in the Silverstone Circuit 10KM on this Tuesday. He finished the race in 43 Mins 59 secs having being placed 277th out of 983.
A quartet of Striders took the short trip just south of Bourne to run the Langtoft 10k. The course is very flat making it conducive for fast times. The route is basically an out-and-back affair through the villages of Greatford and Barholm. Numbers were up on last year with 218 competitors taking part. The interesting feature to this race is the medal awarded is dependant upon finish time.
Nick Reet (25th 39.00 PB) won a gold medal and will get faster as the season progresses. Graham Potter (65th 43:38 PB) with a silver medal set another best after running the Shakespeare Marathon only 7 days before. Paul Hardy (80th 45.44) just into the bronze medal territory was pleased with his effort taking 3 minutes off his time set at Lincoln in April. Vince Mc Niffe (86th 46.15) was disappointed with his performance and put this down to the muggy conditions.
The race was well organized by a group of volunteers, and all proceeds are donated to community projects within Langtoft Village.
Keely McNiffe finished a very commendable 73rd out of 170 min the 3k fun run.
The Shakespeare Marathon is held on the Sunday closest to Shakespeare's birthday (April 23) .
It is a fairly flat and fast course with only 2 hills of any note . 2 slightly differing laps. The only parts of the course that are challenging are a 3 mile stretch of lap 1 and a 5 mile stretch of lap 2 that are on the Greenway (a compacted grit path) - but even this (at least in the dry) was nothing too out of the ordinary. 749 competitors completed the full marathon with 1,845 in the half. Well supported, and very comprehensively marshalled (water stations every 2 miles). Chip-timed. A good alternative to a Spring big city marathon. The weather forecasters got it completely wrong as all runners prepared for a rain downfall but were subjected to brilliant sunshine after 2 hours of the race start.
Leanne Ward (631st 4.42.40) recorded an excellent time for her first full marathon . Graham Potter (188th 3.38.31 PB) knocked 6 minutes off his fastest set in 2002. Ted Preston (250th 3.46.52) won the personal challenge with Ian Hanks (285th 3.52.09 PB).
Alan Buckberry (313rd 1.43.08) was the first Strider to finish the half marathon closely followed by Andy Preston (326th 1.43.32 PB) shaving a few seconds from his Grantham time posted in March. Clive Holden (1,099th 2.03.34) used this race as a kick start to his year.
Described by previous participants as having great PB potential. The start and finish was in the magnificent Don Valley Stadium, with the race once again following the runner and spectator friendly route through the city centre.
Vince Mc Niffe (1.45.40) competed along with Jon Hird (1.46.22 PB) beating his Grantham time by 4 minutes.
A lovely sunny day greeted a trio of Striders at Bourne Wood 5 mile run. The first strider in was Karl Aubrey with the time of 36.55, the second Strider home was Paul Hardy with a time of 37.40. And it was a good run by Anna Thompson who came in Second in the womens race with a time of 43.00 and picked up the trophy for the second fastest female.
Jane James was guaranteed a place on her Good for age time at Mablethorpe marathon and knocked 5 minutes off coming in at 3:20:45 and placed 20th in her age group. Garry Wilson and Sarah Miller both in their first marathon ran together and helping each other through the tough times coming in at a time of 4:04:36 Garry found it more difficult than expected due starting off close to the back and spending the majority of the race passing slower runners/walkers. Emma Marshal came in at 4:13:03 knocking over 20 minutes off last year’s time and felt fine at the end. Annie Giles, another first timer who only received a charity place late so had to condense her marathon training by half came in a very good time of 4:57:11 and thanks all the Striders for their help and support over the last few months, She says it was a very well organised supportive run and pleased she ran it, Stanley Thornton the most experienced of the 6 competing in his 9th London Marathon came in 5:19:46.
A Lovely sunny day greeted 21 Striders at the City of Lincoln Jackson Bulding Centres 10k Roadrace The first Strider in was John Siddens in a time 35.02 making him 3rd male over 40, followed by Nick Reet in 40.14, Next was Jane James in 41.45 using this as time on her legs before London Marathon in 2 weeks, but still managed to be First female 45. Paul Hardy 48:20, Jon Hird came in 47.29 pleased with his time even though he had to slow down at 9k due to a muscle injury. Mark Cozens 48.10 Anna McKenzie 51.50. Joan 51.55. Anna Thompson 52.21, Clive Holden 54.41 was pleased with his negative split race as being out of racing for a while due to concentrating on coaching. Cathy Davies 55.21, Kevin Bailey 55.12. Linda Melloy 59.30(PB) Stan Thornton 1:00:02, Dennis Tindall 1:01:06, Paul Shaw 1:03:22 pleased with his time after coming back from a recent illness, Leanne Ward ran despite having a bad cold, to help along one of the 3 runners coached by Clive Holden and Leanne on the Monday nights beginners group at St Georges doing their first 10k race, Leanne and Michelle came in together in 1:05:26 followed by the 2 others on their first race Karen Robertson 1:10:28 closely followed by her running partner for the day Lorraine Vince 1:10:33,All 3 were pleased to finish their first 10k that this time last year could only ever dream about saying it is thanks to the Monday night group they were able to complete the 10k. Finally Pete Hayward crossed in 1:17:03 continuing to improve.
On the same day not far from Lincoln a quartet of Striders took part in the Friskney Half Maratahon.Ted Preston took third place in the V50 cat with a time of 1 hour 40 minutes 20 seconds. The other runners were Alan Buckberry (1.43.30) Emma Marshall (1.49.40) and Pete Nadin (2.06.30).
Fourteen Striders took the short trip to Grantham on Sunday for the third running of the Newton’s Fraction Half Marathon. A minutes silence for club President, Chairman and co-founder of Grantham AC, Mike Bundy marked the start of this race. This is a scenic course offering views of Harlaxton Manor and Belvoir Castle which incorporates a 2 mile stretch of the Grantham Canal Path and a lap of the track at the Grantham Stadium. The terrain was mainly flat with 2 inclines at the 6 and 10 mile points. The weather was warm and very sunny with a slight breeze making ideal running conditions and was very well organized by Grantham AC. Jane James was the first Strider to cross the line in 1 hour 33 minutes claiming the third lady overall prize. Nick Reet (1.35.08 PB) in his first half marathon for years found going down the hills difficult was pleased to be in under 1.40. Ian Hanks (1.36.00 PB) was 4 minutes faster than last year and set a 50 seconds PB. Graham Potter (1.36.30 PB) set a 5 minute PB and clocked fastest times for 5 miles and 10 miles in the process. Vince Mc Niffe (1.40.29) had a steady but enjoyable race. Ted Preston (1.41.45) was pleased with his time and was his best performance at this distance for 3 years. Andy Preston (1.43.51 PB). Emma Marshall-Telfer (1.44.51) was pleased with this time after suffering a trapped sciatic nerve recently, she is still on course to get a ‘good for age’ time at London next month. Garry Wilson (1.46.15 PB) smashed his PB by 37 minutes and should be good for 4 hours in London. John Hird (1.50.10 PB) like most of the others also found the hills hard going. Anna Thompson (2.00.00) was just a bit slower than at Sleaford a couple of weeks ago. Leanne Ward (2.02.15 PB) beat her previous best by 18 minutes and shouldn’t take her too long to break the 2 hour barrier. Maureen Runacres (2.04.30) was breathless at the end but enjoyed the whole experience on reflection. Linda Melloy (2.21.00) crossed the line in arms with 2 fellow competitors to great cheers and applause from the rest of the Striders.
Clive Holden helped with marshalling near the end of the race.
A quartet of Sleaford Striders took the short journey to the village of Harby in Leicestershire for the 15 mile Belvoir Challenge. The annual Belvoir Challenge was set up in 1990 to raise money for Harby Primary School. The event is organized by the 'Friends of Harby School' and the Vale Striders running club. Around 1,000 competitors took part. There is also the option of a 26 mile route and is also open to walkers. The route follows footpaths, byways, tracks, and minor roads, with the kind permission of the Duke of Rutland, go through the Belvoir Estate. There are checkpoints roughly every 5 miles providing free drinks and snacks. (The Belvoir Challenge is well known for the homemade cakes provided, and is one of the few events where you can actually put on weight!). Jane James took it easy and still managed to finish in 10th place in the ladies’ race with a time of 2 hours 27 minutes. Samantha Lester (41st 2.53) completed the race an hour quicker than last year and particularly enjoyed the pizza at the first checkpoint. Ian Hanks (44th in the men’s event 2.22) thoroughly enjoyed the race and will be back next year. Graham Potter (149th 2.53) noted that the slight route change from last year was for the better.
This was the fifth running of the Sleaford Half Marathon from RAF Cranwell.
304 runners from all over the country completed the course which still makes this the largest event of its’ kind in the county. Months of hard work and planning by the members of Sleaford Striders made sure the race went ahead smoothly. Race Director, Clive Holden would like to thank all of the volunteers for their efforts.The winner of the race was Leigh Stubbs from Redhill Road Runners in 1 hour 12 minutes 28 seconds, some 3 minutes off the course record set last year. The ladies winner Carolyn Hay (1.25.48) was also from Redhill Road Runners. The men’s team prize went to Redhill Road Runners and the ladies’ team prize to Notts AC. 4 runners from Sleaford Striders took part with results as follows: John Siddens (6th 1.19.32), Paul Hardy (182nd 1.51.17), Anna Thompson (227th 1.58.33), Stanley Thornton (245th 2.05.10), Pete Hayward (301st 2.52.46).
Sunday 10th February dawned cold, crisp and sunny. Ideal conditions for the 30k Stamford St Valentines race which attracted 608 finishers. The course is described as challenging and preparation for the flora London Marathon. By challenging they mean hilly, very hilly!!! The course started and ended through a local housing estate, but the main bulk of the course is on quiet country lanes, all varying in gradients! The course was well marshalled and if you had enough energy was exceptionally picturesque. Jane James was first to finish in 162nd place overall in 2 hours 19 minutes 16 seconds, followed by Ian Hanks (235th 2.25.25), next was Ted Preston (329th 2.36.40) then Emma Marshall-Telfer (360th 2.39.48) and finally Andy Preston (417th 2.45.07). The long sleeve t-shirt received by the entrants was nice and the bananas which you could help yourself to at the end was agreat idea! This was a great race for a warm up for a spring marathon.
This was the second running the Ropsley Raid in the shortened 13 mile format. The event was well organised as usual by the Ropsley Road Runners. This is mainly off-road along footpaths, tracks, bridleways and muddy farmer’s fields giving the feeling of running through porridge with moon boots on. The weather was chilly with brilliant sunshine for the duration. Some of the water stations had chocolate bars and cakes to provide energy boosts. Only 3 Striders competed here amongst the 100 strong turnout due to the clash with the Lincs Cross Country championships taking pace on the same day. Paul Hardy used the run as a tester for his on-going Achilles heel problems. Samantha Lester in her first attempt here produced a fine performance in 2 hours 28 minutes with little training. Her enjoyment was tempered with aching legs at the end. Graham Potter also 2.28 had a steady run at one of his favourite races. Afterwards, all runners were treated to a cup of well earned soup and a cheese roll with a drinks mug to mark the occasion.