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APRIL A GREAT MARATHON MONTH FOR SWINTON RUNNING CLUB INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
BRIGHTON MARATHON - 15TH APRIL 2012
April - Marathon Month
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Foolish 5
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Congratulations to
Bent and Bongs 10K
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Mark Whittington - 03:23:08
Salford 10K
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World Indoor Champs
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Heaven and Hell Half
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Brighton Marathon
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Lymm 10K
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Radcliffe 10K
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Bolton 10K
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LONDON MARATHON - 22ND APRIL 2012
Hawkshead Trail Race
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Manchester Marathon
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Congratulations to
Thank You
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Sale Sizzler Series 2012
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Worsley Woods parkrun
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Beginners Group
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Up and Coming Races
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CLGP 2012
24 Horwich 5
Club Championships
Carl Price - 03:02:36 Jason Wilson - 04:06:27 Lisa Ottiwell - 04:26:45 Carol Hart - 04:27:23 Vivienne Samuelson - 05:00:49
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Ladies Championship
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Men’s Championship
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Committee Minutes
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Social Events
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Race Results
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Contacts
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MANCHESTER MARATHON - 29TH APRIL 2012
Congratulations to Tony Flanagan - 02:57:45 Daniel Bird - 02:56:58 Simon Atkin - 03:07:39 Darren Russell - 03:06:34 Chris O'Loughlin - 03:19:43 Mark Birchall - 03:22:53 Lauren Marsden - 03:26:21 Antony Golding - 03:29:42 Rebecca Mills - 03:43:40 Cara Anderson - 04:00:50 Graeme Price - 04:16:16 David Williamson - 04:20:47 Dawn Green - 04:30:02 Michael Horton - 04:33:34 Kathryn Roberts - 04:30:25 Susan Bean - 04:59:23 Andrew Smith - 05:11:15
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Foolish 5 - Sunday 1st April 2012 The Foolish Five is the first of the year’s Kiwi Classic events organised by the ever likeable Jason Chapman (manager of Sweatshop Hyde). It is a 5 mile multi-terrain event and takes its name from the timing of the event falling at the beginning of April. This year it actually coincided with April Fool’s Day! In retrospect it was also probably very foolish to attempt this race the day after completing Coniston 14! The race starts along a flat sealed path, just behind the main street through Hyde. This was fairly pleasant running and the field soon spread out (i.e. I was going slowly!) giving plenty of space to run in. After about ¾ of a mile the route took a right turn to head up Greens Lane towards Werneth Low. Green’s Lane itself is a big of a steady uphill drag and it takes a mile to get to the road crossing. It was at this point my legs started to remind me of the fact that they had completed a undulating Coniston 14 the day before! From the road crossing the running surface then turns to grass and the path takes the shortest and steepest route straight up Werneth Low to the top. This short uphill was only 0.2 of a mile, but on tired legs felt never ending! Given I was walking this part it did give a chance to take in the amazing views afforded from the climb. It was a perfect day for this course - cool enough but with sunshine and clear skies. The views stretched right across Manchester. The very encouraging marshal let me know at the top to turn left at the cenotaph. The views from the top were even better than the climb and the cenotaph added more atmosphere to the location.
The view at 2.3 miles looking back to the cenotaph. The climb up was to the right hand side of the cenotaph as you look at the picture.
From the cenotaph the track (different surface type number 5!) then undulates for half a mile heading along the side of Werneth Low were the views could continue to be enjoyed. The route then starts to head downhill, thankfully coming down a slightly gentler gradient than the climb up. The first descent was very narrow with handily placed heather to trip you up and keep your wits about you! Once the route widens out there are some nice grassy slopes to gather some speed down. The constant changing surface of this event then produced a road surface for about a quarter of a mile. At three miles the route once again crosses the main road and then heads towards the part of the course I had been somewhat dreading - ‘The Bog of Doom’!. Despite the relatively dry weather of recent the bog was still definitely bog-like and made for great fun. Having learnt my lesson at Cartmel Trail Race I adopted a new tactic for dealing with such obstacles - run straight through them and hope for the best! I emerged thankfully with both shoes still in place. The route then gently continues down fields before a sharp drop in some trees into a stream and back up the other side. The left turn then takes you back up an uneven path before re-joining Green’s Lane about half way up. From here the course retraces its steps for the last mile heading down Green’s Lane and then picking up the sealed path for a quick flat run in if you still have the legs. This was a hugely enjoyable race with a small, friendly field and excellent marshals; it certainly lives up to its multi-terrain name. I was slightly disappointed not to receive any memento at the end, however the cheap entry price probably didn’t allow for such. I look forward to entering more of the Kiwi Classic Events if they are as unique as this one.
Viv Full results available here SWINTON
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Bent and Bongs 10K Trail Race - Sunday 1st April 2012 This was the first running of this 10K Trail Race organised by Astley and Tyldesley RC. This was all off road and well marshalled. The weather was perfect for running sunny but cool enough for comfortable running. There was a pretty good turnout of runners , Ron Hill included. If you have ran the 5 miler at Astley you know that the atmosphere and cheering of the marshals' and spectators is great. This race equalled that. It is a nice flat course . There is a loop of just over a mile that you run round twice. If any Swinton runner overtakes me next year I will buy them a pasties after the race, so Tony, Steve Doxey, Carl, Darren, and anyone else I hope you all go hungry coz I’m a tight bugger. The latter stage of this race is uphill but finishes at the bottom. This year the ground was dry
so conditions were perfect. I hope the race continues as it is one that I would do again.
Mike Lilley Full results available here
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Salford 10K - Friday 6th April 2012 The Salford 10k is a flat and fast 2 lap 10k race organised by Salford Harriers, held at the sports centre on Littleton Road. The standard of the field is pretty good, accommodating over 500 runners from all over the country in times ranging from 29 minutes to over the hour mark with nearly a third of the runners usually completing it in sub 40 minutes. I arrived at the sports centre quite early for me, almost half an hour before the race start. The weather was quite cool with the sun shining. After picking up my number, I went for a quick warm up and on my way back was blinded by a bright reflection in the distance. As I got closer I realised it was Swinton’s very own squirrel aka Sharen on her dazzling new bike with Emma, Mike Carl out in full support. After a few kind words of encouragement from Dave Pargeter I got to the start line with Simon Atkin and we agreed the tactics would be to take the first mile easy to ease into the race. Simon is in great shape and I thought if I can keep him in my sights then I’d be happy at the end of the race. I started the race at a comfortable pace and felt good. It was good to see a big smile from Kate Cammish and her little girl at the top of Littleton road, which made me smile to the end of the first lap and the 5k split was 18 minutes dead. I knew if I held it together for the second lap then I could be on for a PB. I felt strong on the second lap, passing a number of runners, until the final mile, then felt myself starting to slow and tire. Another runner started to pass me at that point and that seemed to give me a kick up the back side to get moving again!. I stayed on the runner’s shoulder until about quarter of a mile to go and pulled away with a dash to the finish line, fuelled by the "lively" support from the Swinton posse of Sharen, Emma, Mike, Carl and Chris. I later found out I had gained over ten seconds on the runner and finished in a new PB of 36:07. Shortly after followed Simon, in 36:21 who told me I had been in his sights all of the way and started to close on me until the final push. Another great PB for Simon and was made up for him as he had suffered from his fair share of injuries earlier in the year but got his fitness back rapidly and was giving me a hard time during the previous training runs!. First lady back for Swinton was Julie Whelan in a fantastic time of 46:45, which I understand was a PB too. It was another great Swinton turnout with 17 runners sporting our club's red colours. The race was won by Jack Martin of Stockport Harriers in blistering time of 29:50 and with a lead of 22 seconds. The first lady back was Lizzie Adams of Hallamshire Harriers in an unbelievable time of 32:50 and 19 seconds clear of the second lady. In summary the race is flat and fast and perfect for those chasing a PB. The organisation was faultless with all the facilities needed in the sports centre. The course is by no means scenic and could probably be described as drab but the PB potential and support of the Salford people more than makes up for the route!. Look forward to doing this one again next year!.
Darren SWINTON
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Race Reviews World Indoor Championships - Finland - 6th & 8th April 2012 It was a bit of a shock to arrive here in Jyvaskyla, Finland for the World Indoor Championships, as an unexpected snowfall arrived at the beginning of the week. I was told that this made the XC a bit more difficult in the snow, but the organisers did a good job in making sure the race went ahead. We arrived on Thursday night, after a long day travelling and just managed to get to the registration to declare for the 3000m the following day. As it was Easter, very little was open on the first two days. The Hotel was good, and in a good location. We were in the center of town and about 2 km from the stadium. As it was still light and wanted to get a bit of fresh air, plus see the town; we walked to and from the stadium. Although there was a lot snow about, the roads and pavements were completely clear. I'm still not sure how they managed to do this? My 3000m was scheduled to start at 4.30pm on the Friday, and was not sure which race I was in, luckily when we were in the call room my name was one of the first called out, so I knew I was in the slower B race. My only criticism of the whole event would be that the warm up facilities was inadequate. It was basically a gym of about 50m in length, which meant jogging up and down 30 times just to get 1 mile. Also with many other athletes trying to do the same it was very difficult. I managed to get about 10 mins running, but was worried I'd not got a sufficient warm up. As the race got under way I could tell that it was a little harder than I expected. I was running about the right time per lap, but it just didn't feel as it should do. I was through 1km in 3.20 and I think in 4th place, about halfway it got even more harder and 2km was reached in 6.47. I then got overtaken by 2 runners and struggled over the last 5 laps for a time of 10.17. Overall I was pleased with this, with the travelling and being in the sports hall which was very warm, I was only 6 secs slower than Lee Valley. The day after I went for a easy run with Wendy to the lake where the half marathon was to be run. This was an amazing sight. The lake was completely frozen, and to my astonishment I could see people walking across at the narrowest point (which was about half a mile). I assumed it must be safe as I saw someone who looked like an official with a large corkscrew implement. It looked like he was able to measure the thickness of the ice and would of otherwise stopped people from going on if the ice was too thin. With this knowledge I gingerly tiptoed onto the ice for about 50m and took some photo's. The weather over in Finland was very good, apart from the Friday afternoon when it did start snowing. This cleared up quite quickly and generally it was mostly sunny with clear skies but cold (about zero to 2 Degrees). On the half marathon day it again was a glorious day. The course was mainly flat and covered 1 and a half laps of the lake. About 360 runners started the race on the main bridge, which started at 12.30pm. I started off steady, but again found it was more difficult than I expected. I though it maybe to do with the air being a bit more pure than back at home, and was worried if I was going to get round. I'd not run a half for 8 years, although I did a 10 miler in December in 61 mins, I was hoping I SWINTON
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World Indoor Championships - Finland - 6th & 8th April 2012 could run the stated time I expected which was 81 mins. Once underway and the bulk of the runners had thinned out, I ran at a fairly consistent pace of 3 mins 50 secs per Km. This I managed to keep up to 16Km. I started to slow down slightly over the last 5Km, but now felt confident of getting round in 81 mins. So I could relax a little over those last 3 mile finishing in 58th place overall and 10th V50. We had managed to scrape a team together with a runner moving down from the M55's to join 2 of us in the M50 team. Fortunately after about 4 and a half hours after the race they announced the team results and quite unexpectedly found we had won a team bronze, so a very nice ending to the trip. We again walked back from the stadium back to the hotel, and on the way called off for some food. When we came out at 9pm, we could see a temperature gauge in the town, which read 15 Degrees. Luckily we had a lot of layers on, but still seemed quite pleasant as the sun started to set. So a very good trip and Wendy even enjoyed it despite not being + 30 Degrees.
Steve Doxey
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Heaven and Hell Half Marathon - Sunday 8th April 2012 I can’t remember how I found out about this run but last year it was brought to my attention. At that time I was already entered into something but this year I was free and the course profile was too tempting to resist. After a week of camping on the Isle of Skye I made my way to my base for the weekend, Newburgh, Fife (my Mum’s house). This is as close to a ‘home’ race as I’ve got as it is about a 15 minute drive from where I grew up and was an old stomping ground for tennis and horse riding. With this prior knowledge I should have been aware of what to expect but I just kept thinking ‘it can’t be that bad.’ On Sunday morning I was ready, raring to go and arrived with plenty of time to spare at Scone airport. After picking up my number I then awaited the race briefing. The run was not on closed roads so a warning was made about that and then it was off to the start line. Now one thing that is developing into a pet hate is when people misjudge distances. The start line was describes as 400m along the road. With no sense of haste I dumped my warm clothes in the car and started walking to the start. Then jogging. Then a bit faster. It was NOT 400m. At least I got a quick warm up (as did Mum) and made it just in time for the gun. The first couple of miles felt great as we meandered along the country roads of Perthshire, past fields of cows and chickens. At about 2 miles we past standing stones on the right and a golf course on the left. The snow-capped mountains of the Highlands were visible in the distance and the sun was shining. So far a lovely jaunt. Then the hills started to go up. Not too worrying to start with, just long slow slogs. The first person I passed walking was just after three miles (this person continued to irritate me until mile 8 where he would walk up hills then sprint past me on the flats and downhill's). The uphill continued until mile 7 where we were rewarded with amazing views over the Tay valley towards Dundee and the Tay bridges. The sun was still shining and I was enjoying running past field of horses and the gorse filled hedges. The pack had spread out and at times I was on my own. I took it easy on the steep downhill and as it evened out in order to prepare myself for ‘Hell’. After turning a bend through a pretty, flower filled hamlet I arrived. The sign welcomed runners to Hell and looking ahead it was all uphill and the road was filled with walkers rather than runners! I was having none of that nonsense and so it was head down and small paces. ‘Just keep running’ was stuck in my head and I started to welcome gentle inclines as though they were flat. Just before the 10 mile mark my Mum was encouraging runners to keep going and alerting us to the welcome news that we were at the top. All downhill from here! Just in time as the wind was picking up and clouds were threatening rain. The final mile was greeted with the first spatters of rain and running into the wind but that was bearable as the end was getting closer. A sharp turn right and we were there, done. Goodies included usual water and banana but also a snood! Now there is one particularly special thing about this race…the grub afterwards. After a quick drive back to the headquarters Mum and I walked into the hall to be met with tables and tables of food. There were homemade sandwiches and cakes galore. It was amazing. Perth Road Runners sure do know how to entertain their guests, and all this was included in the entry fee!!! So there we go, it might be a bit of a trek for Swinton runners but it is well worth it for the spectacular scenery and the glorious grub!
Cara Full results available here SWINTON
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HEAVEN AND HELL HALF MARATHON - SUNDAY 8
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Brighton Marathon - Sunday 15th April 2012 I was ‘born and bred’ in Brighton so I am probably biased about the Brighton Marathon, but I thought it was a great event. It has only been going since 2010 but last year it was awarded an IAAF Bronze Label race and 9,000 people ran it this year. Sorry to all those who ran the Greater Manchester Marathon, but the conditions were almost perfect. It was lovely and sunny but not too warm. Arriving at Preston Park, about a mile from the City Centre, there was a great buzz with some entertainment, hot drinks available and thankfully lots of toilets! The start was very well organised and not too crowded. Starting with a loop of the park before heading into the City Centre, the route heads east, up a number of hills along the coast road before turning around at a village a few miles outside of Brighton. Heading back along the coast the sea breeze was noticeable but not too strong. Although I knew every part of the course, it was encouraging to hear a spectator letting everyone know that after the ninth mile, the course was either flat or downhill. Support close to the Palace Pier was amazing and this seemed to continue for almost the whole route. Whilst I have previously scoffed at people who have there names on their vests, I decided to go for it this time. Hearing people continue to shout “Whitty” really spurred me on. As well as people lining the streets there were quite a few local bands playing a variety of music, some of it better than others! After a few miles along the seafront road, the course works it way through Hove before you have to loop back, making your way back to the coast. The hardest part of the route for me was a seemingly never ending run around Shoreham Power Station, before the last four miles along the promenade to the finish on Maderia Drive, just along from the Palace Pier. On the route, there were plenty of water and energy stations and I tried energy bloks for the first, and probably the last time! I was obviously glad to see the finish line and was pleased with my time when I finally made it over. I received my goody bag and banana with thanks and collected my bag quickly (sorry again to those who did the Greater Manchester Marathon). As well as great support and organization, I can testify that the medical support was also excellent! After struggling my way a few hundred yards to meet my family, I collapsed in agony with chest pain. With a fair dose of drama, I was wheeled to the medical centre but by the time I arrived, I felt fine. A doctor told me that I simply had cramp and not the heart attack that had been feared. For some reason my wife isn’t keen on me doing a Marathon again…. I won’t mention it to her yet, but I will do another, and it will probably be Brighton.
Mark Whittington
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Lymm 10K - Sunday 15th April 2012 The inaugural Lymm 10k was everything you would expect from a leafy Cheshire village trying to encourage club and occasional runners to participate in its debut effort at becoming part of the racing calendar. Set in the grounds of Lymm High School, the event organized by the local rotary club, had the advantage of access to a sports hall for registration, pre-race refreshments and toilets as well as ample parking. The race itself started on the school playing fields, and involved a lap of the field itself before leading to the country lanes/trail paths and bridle ways that made up the two lap course. Quite picturesque, and with a 300m hill climb at the 4k and 8k mark, the course was challenging but with plenty of down slopes, it provided ample opportunity to set a fast time. Enthusiastic support from the organisers and locals alike, the event went into overkill at the finish with a multitude of goodies being proffered ranging from race t-shirt, and race memento glass paper weight, all the way through to waffles (with cinnamon, after all it is Cheshire!!), and quite unusually a bottle of hot peri- peri marinade, not sure what that was about but there you go. Chip timing with your Christian name emblazoned on your race number it reinforced the whole perspective that Lymm Rotary Club knew how to organize a race. It even had a Starbucks coffee tent, barbeque, and craft store! Thankfully the awards ceremony was a bit of a cock up as it didn’t take place till at least 45 minutes after the last finisher hence other than those who had actually won and a handful of stragglers i.e. the Swinton representatives, everyone had disappeared. Definitely a race worth doing again, and I suspect this one may well become more and more popular with a half marathon event not too far away. Only lessons to be learnt are more relevant to my fellow club runners, notably don’t rely on a sat nav when you have someone in the car who use to live in Lymm!!
Phil Summers Full results available here
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RADCLIFFE 10K TRAIL RACE - SUNDAY 15
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Photographs courtesy of Just Love Running
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Bolton 10K - Sunday 22nd April 2012 Since joining Swinton Running Club in January I’ve entered a few races but I do confess that I am not really experienced in pre-race preparations. I have a tendency to drink lots of red wine the night before, go to bed late and skip breakfast on the day of the race! Because I am not an early morning person, I leave everything to the last minute. Sharen keeps telling me off for not eating properly so I decided this race will be different. I avoided the red grape juice the night before ,which I can confirm was difficult, and set my alarm ready for the race the next morning to make sure I have breakfast. The following morning the alarm went off and I managed to drag myself out of bed for orange juice and pancakes. Feeling quite pleased that I’d eaten, I decided to go back to bed and have a little rest. To my dismay, I fell back asleep dreaming that I was getting ready for the race. I woke up and hurriedly prepared for the race. With minutes to spare I managed to get to registration and put on my race number, while looking out for fellow Swinton runners. I was pleased to see Susan. Walking to the start line I was quite surprised by the number of runners. Late as usual, I found myself at the back of the field. The weather was very cold and windy but, thankfully, at the start of the race there was no rain. The race began on the track - which was quite nice heading onto the roads and into a small estate. We then entered the park and I huffed and puffed my way up a big hill. As I crested the hill the heavens opened and throughout the rest of the race it was cold, muddy, very wet and windy. Running through the park was quite pleasant, especially with the crowds cheering the runners on - but I could only think of running up that hill again and reflecting upon the race blurb which (I’m sure!) advertised this race as flat! I finished the race in 52:06 ,which was disappointing as I aimed for sub-50, but I would like to say a huge well done to Colin, Steve & Susan who also ran that day. I think for future races I might stick to red wine the night before!
Julie Whelan Full results available here
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BOLTON 10K - SUNDAY 22
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Photographs courtesy of Just Love Running
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Hawkshead 17K Trail Race - Saturday 28th April 2012 Hawkshead 10k, and 17k Trail and Challenge races represent the second leg of the annual Lakelands Spring Trail Series. If you love hills and trails with stunning views than these are the races for you. Add in mud, mud and more mud, plus driving rain, and a complete sense of bewilderment then you realize that defeating the course is one aim but the primary goal is simply to run and enjoy the pleasure of trail running. Quite a few Swintoners’ undertook the first leg of the series at Cartmel back in March. Unfortunately, some one affectionately referred to in running quarters as the ‘big fellah’ was meant to write up the report but given his outstanding performance in the Manchester Marathon, we shall forgive Dave Williamson his aberration. Hence, Hawkshead with its infamous ‘coffin mile’ , a hideous climb of rubble at 8 miles in , feared by many and conquered by none lay in wait for the intrepid quartet of Swinton runners undertaking the Challenge, and one for the 10k series. The route to the Lakes is always pleasant with stunning scenery a plenty yet inevitably ends up discussing whether that dark, black cloud drifting along the skyline is headed for our race or hopefully heading out to the Irish sea. Fear not heavy rain was forecasted for Manchester on marathon day, and we know it didn’t disappoint that Sunday. Hawkshead was perfect, a little cold but the predicted gusts never materialized. The route starts from the Hawkshead showground, and soon enters into a myriad of bridleways, paths, and rocky trails, which takes in panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding peaks of the Coniston Hills, and the Langdale fells. Fiona, Lisa, Mel and myself settled in right at the back at the start already planning our afternoon amble. After a mile, the familiar sight of Viv in her Swinton top loomed ahead, and pleasantries of how she fared at the London marathon the previous Sunday were exchanged. My perspective of whether she was mad doing this tough run so soon after London was reinforced when she admitted to Fiona that she had come to Hawkshead straight from the Saturday park run!! The general drift of these trail runs appears to be slow gradual climbs followed by steep descents. Unfortunately the latter is usually treacherous underfoot and whilst lighter on the quadriceps, its still difficult to grab the time back spent crawling up the hills. For my sins on one of the downward trails I went over quite hard, and landed more or less on Mel. Unbeknown to me at this time, Fiona had already been helped back by Mountain rescue after a nasty fall. Lisa too was to end up on the ground, with Nikki making a quartet of divers having been taken out at Beechers or was it the coffin mile. Rumours had it that a Japanese television company was filming the coffin mile to illustrate the madness of the British runners. Thankfully I passed them on their way back from filming and felt relieved that Tokyo would not be getting the benefit of my trail experience. Once the infamous coffin mile of rocks and gravel had been survived the course was a final 2k descent into Hawkshead. With plenty of locals cheering and supporting, it was great encouragement to forget the tiredness and sprint for the finish. All of us said it was bloody hard but couldn’t wait for the finale in Staveley in May. After that it’s the Lakelands Autumn series, Keswick, Coniston and Helvellyn to come!
Phil Summers SWINTON
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Manchester Marathon - Sunday 29th April 2012 GREATER
MANCHESTER
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EXPERIENCE!
The weather on the day before the marathon wasn’t too bad, so I prepared my kit for cool, showery weather, feeling quite pleased that it wouldn’t be too warm. That was a big mistake!
Sue ran the Manchester Marathon for the Christie Hospital Charity, you can still sponsor Sue by clicking here or using the QR Code below
I arrived early at Longford Park for the start of the marathon The weather was awful, wet, windy and cold. .I met a few people that I know, but didn’t see anyone from Swinton, although I knew that there were a lot of us. As I waited to start, I didn’t feel too cold as we were keeping each other warm, being close together, and usually it isn’t long before the running creates the body heat. Being a plodder, I set off intending to run evenly around the 10:30 minute mile pace, so that I wouldn’t burn myself out. I was amazed at how many people braved the weather to come out and support us with brollies blowing inside out, and people standing in the pouring rain. The marshals and all volunteers at the drinks stations, including Swinton RC deserve a huge thank you for all their encouragement and sustenance. I’m sure that on a better day the course would be fantastic, taking in the landmarks and pleasant scenery. I felt that I was going along steadily at my desired pace, taking each section and mentally marking off the miles without too much discomfort. Then, as I went through Dunham, I experienced marathon running as I’ve never known anything like it before! I ran through muddy paths like a child wallowing in the delights of getting covered in mud. Without the ‘wellies’ and being a mature adult, it wasn’t as much fun. Some of the paths were flooded, and there was no alternative but to run through as if I was running through a pond. Cold, wet squelchy trainers was the result of this, and for the next few miles, my trainers had an annoying squeaky noise that could be heard for my next few miles. My socks were wet through, as was the rest of me, and with the wind chill, I didn’t feel any pain because I was numb. People around me were in the same condition and we encouraged each other along trying to bring some humour into the situation that we’d got ourselves into. It was wonderful to see friendly faces cheering us on, but sad to see people dropping out from being too cold to carry on. During my last few miles, I was very cold, and at one point when I saw a friend who offered me a hug ,I clung on to him as I could feel some warmth..Much to his surprise, I was reluctant to let go of him! This was a far cry from my first marathon that was during a heatwave! I was so glad to reach the finish line, and for me, surprisingly, It was a pb. My Manchester marathon experience has confirmed to me how great Manchester is, and I’m so glad to be able to take part in such activities. The freak weather didn’t put me off, and I’m sure it couldn’t be any worse. Well done to all my fellow finishers with such great times, (London and elsewhere too) and well done and thanks to the Swinton ‘station’ team as we wouldn’t survive without you. Back to granny duties now! See you soon.
Sue Bean Full results available here
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Manchester Marathon - Sunday 29th April 2012 In July 2011, I was looking around for races on the internet. I found a Marathon in Manchester that was re-opening in April 2012 (After a 10 year absence). When I had a long chat with my parents about trying to run a full marathon, they were not that confident at first, as this was to be a big challenge for me, stepping up from 13.1 Miles to 26.2 Miles. They knew that I would have to commit to training if I was to take it seriously. I thought that it would be a good opportunity to do my first marathon after completing four half marathons in my running career, so after finally coming to an agreement, it was booked and paid. I had been given a 16 week marathon programme that was recommended by my Sports Tutor at college. He told me to have a rest during the Christmas break, and then come back to college feeling fresh to start my programme in January 2012. It was a busy schedule, running 46 times a week that included long runs, tempo runs, interval, hills and lots of miles, which built up roughly 40-60 miles a week. This meant that I had to sacrifice my Sunday lie-ins and some of my social evenings. As the time was flying by and my weekly mileage was increasing, I focussed much of my time in the College Gym hooked to the treadmill, rather than playing physical contact sports in an effort to avoid injuries. I did book a few sport massages as and when I needed too (especially coming near the end of the marathon programme). One month before the Marathon: I decided to raise money for a small Charity called: (The Challenging Behaviour Foundation). During my hard work training up for my 1st Marathon & while studying BTEC Sport Level 3 at Queen Alexandra College in Harborne, Birmingham, all my friends & teachers have been so supportive, giving me their generous advice & kind donations. If anyone would like to sponsor me or donate to this small but worthwhile Charity, you can follow this Web Page: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SportDan91. I travelled home from College for the weekend on the Friday and was really upset and annoyed with myself, when I realised that I had brought my running shoes home, a spare pair of running socks, but had left my trusted Garmin watch, back in my room in Birmingham. All was not lost, as Paul Shier very kindly lent me his Garmin watch so I could use it on Race day. It really was a Godsend – Thanks Paul :0) On Marathon Day: I woke up bright and early, as I was now used to doing my routine of getting out running early hours of Sunday mornings, running high mileage (Between 18-23 miles with Darren Russell and Mark Birchall). After having a good breakfast, my parents drove me to the event very early so I could settle into the environment easily. It was so cold waiting around so it was nice to chat with Lauren Marsden & Mike Horton. I was feeling excited, but also nervous due to the forecast of HEAVY RAIN & STRONG WINDS, which was difficult blowing against us all during the WHOLE RACE. To be honest it's normal weather up North in Manchester, but not the best conditions to run in. I started the race with 2 friends from Swinton Running Club. It took us a good 3 minutes or so to actually get to the Start Mat because there were so many runners! I ran alongside Darren Russell & Mark Birchall for the first 2 miles, then, I decided to leave them both and to do the remaining 24 miles on my own. I was running fresh & efficiently, going through the miles under 7 mins/1 mile, until I reached 20 miles, that is when my legs were slowly feeling sluggish & facing mother nature's wind forcing me to become even slower during the last 6 miles.
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Race Reviews
Manchester Marathon - Sunday 29th April 2012 I ran some distance with Tony Flanagan and it was great that he gave me words of advice along the way – Thanks Tony! Luckily my Running Club Swinton was at the 2nd last Aid Station at the 21st Mile mark, giving out water and most importantly giving their MORAL SUPPORT - (GO DAN!!) this helped me overcome the physical & possible mental tiredness. It was just what I needed, seeing so many friendly faces, urging me to keep going. At the 25th Mile I saw my parents shouting 1 MORE MILE TO GO!! (I could almost feel the finish). At the last corner I saw a Pace Man holding the Sub 3hr pace maker sign. It was incredible to hear the loud roar of the crowds & to know that I was near the finish. I sprinted using the last remaining muscles in my body to cross the line knowing that I’d completed my 1st Marathon (Under 3hours!!). I collected my recovery items, got my Marathon Medal & then I rushed over to a massage tent where I was in much need of treatment as my legs were shattered. After the quickest & most painful massage ever, I went back outside to brave the freezing winds & weather. I then saw my proud parents!! They saw me outside the tent, freezing & in a sore state (OUCH!!). We headed over to a packed tent where all 5000 bags were kept, and I needed my Clothes urgently (I wasn't the only runner suffering in the cold, while waiting furiously for our own bag. This was dangerous because lots of people suffered hypothermia standing around in bad weather conditions). After an hour’s wait for my bag, feeling relieved to have my clothes back, got a bit warmer that I finally stopped shivering from all the waiting around, then I was ready to go home for a nice warm bath before I headed back to my college in Birmingham. We saw Rebecca Mills as we were leaving, she too was shivering & waiting for her bag. I was pleased that my mum led her to sit inside a tent and that she was able to give her our big bath towel to wrap around herself to try and get warm. There were so many runners that took part, including lots from Swinton club. Sorry that I didn’t get to see you all on the day. It was extremely cold, windy & wet on the day, yet I came away with a warm feeling of satisfaction & a great sense of achievement. Well done to everybody who took part in the Marathon and a huge Thank You to all of the volunteers who braved the wind and rain to offer water at the Aid Station and kind words of support. The following day I found out my fantastic result - happily finding myself in 50th place overall & my first ever Marathon time: 2:56:58 (Hrs:Mins:Secs).
Daniel Bird
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MANCHESTER MARATHON - SUNDAY 29
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Greater Manchester Marathon Aid Station Sunday 29th April 2012 A very big thank you to the members of Swinton Running Club, who along with partners, and children manned Aid Station 10 at Carrington. The weather was diabolical, and some of the Crew were there from 6am until long after the last runner had passed.
So a big thank you to Daniel Hart Patrick Marsden Nathan Fryer Carol Hart Lisa Ottiwell Viv Samuelson Claire Wolfendale Barbara Bayliss Kate Cammish Gaynor Clarke Emma Flynn Sharen Roberts Paulette Storey Clair Regan Janie Mancini Carolyn Glynn Adam Pickup Paul Shier Ian Thomas Andy Land Steve Doxey Nick Bayliss Pete Glynn
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Ron Hill Sale Sizzler 5K Race Series 2012 Hi! I hope you’re looking forward to the 2012 Sale 5k Sizzlers - that series of four 5k runs in Wythenshawe Park for every ability regardless of shape size or speed that you (hopefully!) enjoyed last year. I attach the entry form that’ll give you all the information you need (except the time that was omitted (!) but is at 7.30pm as in previous years). This year (Olympic Year) we’re working to make them even bigger and better and will be most grateful for your assistance to promote them among your friends and in your workplaces and in your clubs and pubs, etc. This year, we want to have 500 finishers in each run. The bigger the better. The final one on August 16th is going to be very special. Taking place four days after the Olympics end, I’m gathering together as many of the regions ex-Olympians as I can (I’ve already got six) to grace the event and the event will incorporate the North of England 5k championships. Don’t let that put you off, but excitedly look forward to meeting many of the North’s top runners. Please note my email address on the entry form is soon to change so if you have an enquiry, email me on this address fechinmccormick@saleharriersmanchester.com. Yours in running Fechin Mc Cormick (Race Director)
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Worsley Woods parkrun Saturday 12th May 2012 On Saturday 12th May we are trying to get as many members of Swinton Running Club to either run or volunteer at the Worsley Woods parkrun. Please try and come along if you can, and after the race if you can stay behind for a while we will be going for a coffee or a tea at the Waterside in Monton. Please try and wear club colours, but it’s not an issue if you do not. If you have not ran a parkrun before, remember you need to register for the parkrun by Friday, and don’t forget to bring along the barcode.
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Up and Coming Races Sunday 6th May Keswick Half Marathon Bluebell 10 Mile Trail Race
Saturday 2nd June Hollins Green 5K Sunday 3rd June Longridge Lions 7 Buxton Half Marathon
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Thursday 10 May Mobberley “Round the Runway” Race Sunday 13th May The Blacksticks Blue 10K Race Port Sunlight 10K
Thursday 7th June Bowden 5K Sunday 10th June Marsden 10 Mile
Wednesday 16th May Horwich 5 Mile Road Race (CLGP)
Wednesday 13th June Three Sisters Trail Race (CLGP)
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Saturday 19 May White Peak Half - Full White Peak Marathon - Full
Sunday 17th June Freckleton Half Marathon
Sunday 20th May Eyam Half Marathon
Wednesday 20th June Horwich 5 Mile Road Race
Sunday 27th May Blackpool Beach 10K Sinfin RC Classic 10K
Sunday 24th June We Love Manchester 10K
Please confirm any dates before entering, just in case of any typos
Latest North West parkrun
Worsley Woods parkrun Heaton Park - Park Run Every Saturday at 9am this 5km run is organised - free!!. All you have to do is let them know you're coming in advance. It has been suggested that it could become a Swinton regular event on the first Saturday of each month. Web page link Lucozade Sport have a van at the run every 4 to 5 weeks, giving away lots of freebies and advice.
Race Calendar Web Sites Look for all those local and not so local races on these web sites Swinton RC Forum Fetch John Schofield SoftSport SWINTON
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The wonderful Fetch does it all (running log, routes, race log, leagues, logs shoe miles, blogs, fetchmail & more!!) its a great place full of nice running types, a proper online community, its the place to see and be seen, AND its free!! King Fetch (Ian) is very good at responding to member requests about new site content and there are now a total of 13 Swinton Members using the site! Fetch (in my opinion Fetch has the Class!). Andrew
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Race Series
Central Lancashire Grand Prix Series 2012 This years Central Lancashire Grand Prix races are fast approaching, with new races and another one new club Leigh Harriers. The website is http://centrallancsgrandprix.blogspot.com although a new catchier address and site are coming soon. There will be a results service around the site and each club is expected to provide race reviews of its own races at least. Other contributions will be gratefully accepted by Gary Stevens.
The next race in the series is the
Horwich 5 Mile Road Race on Wednesday 16th May 2012
Date
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Sunday, 19th February
Central Lancashire 5K
Sunday, 5th March
The Trotters 5
Sunday, 15th April
Radcliffe 10km
Wednesday, 16th May
Horwich 5
Wednesday, 13th June
Three Sisters 5K Trail Race
Wednesday, 1th August
Chorley 4.4 Trail
Sunday, 12th August Sunday 9th September Sunday, 30th September
NVAC 10km at Bisham Pennington Flash 5Mile Trail Race 2nd Swinton 10 Mile Road Race
Sunday, 7th October U S E FU L CL GP LI N K S Central Lancashire Grand Prix Web Site Swinton Running Club Website UK Results ( on-line entries ) SportSoft ( on-line entries )
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Race Series
Swinton Running Club Championships 2012 This was set up to try and encourage competition between club members at all levels and to be sure of a good turnouts at events in the area: seeing Swinton runners competing at events throughout the field is the best advertisement for the Club. For this year 2012 will see a slight change to the championship:  For the men there are 13 events of which 7 races will score.  For the ladies there are 14 events of which 7 races will score. Scoring is done the same has in the Central Lancashire Grand Prix, 1 point for first, 2 points for second, 3 points for third etc. etc. etc. Prizes will be awarded for the first 3, and also in each of the vet categories. Only one prize per member. To be eligible for prizes, competitors must have taken part in the minimum number of events (now 7 races for both sexes)
Date
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Sunday, 19th February
Central Lancashire 5K
Sunday, 5th March
The Trotters 5
Sunday, 15th April
Radcliffe 10km
Wednesday, 16th May
Horwich 5
Wednesday, 13th June
Three Sisters 5K Trail Race
Wednesday 12th July Wednesday, 1th August Sunday, 12th August Sunday 9th September
Bull Hill Fell Race Chorley 4.4 Trail NVAC 10km at Bisham Pennington Flash 5Mile Trail Race
Sunday, 7th October October TBA
Gin Pit 5 Self Timed Run
Sunday 4th November
29th Through the Villages Race
Sunday 25th November
City of Salford 5.25 Ladies Race
Sunday 9th December Further details can be found on the Club Website SWINTON
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Ladies Club Championship 2012 - Results to date
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Men’s Club Championship 2012 - Results to date
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Committee Meetings Regular meetings are now being held on the second Wednesday of every month at the club after pack runs. Remember any member may sit in the meeting.
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Social Events Date’s for the Diary
Saturday May 19th
Ian Thomas 60th Birthday Party Swinton Moorside Cricket Club 7:30pm All members and partners are welcome Disco by Mike Prince Light Buffet Please let Ian or Janet know if you are attending
Friday July 27th
Olympic Opening Ceremony Party More details next month Sunday December 9th
Children's Christmas Party The best social event in the diary. SWINTON
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Social Events Pie Night - Last Wednesday of the Month Last Wednesday of every month
Pie Night Next one 30th MAY 2012 Special Offer’s to Members Special Discount Rate for Swinton Running Club Members To match the offer made by both Prestwich and Leigh Road Physiotherapy Clinics, our very own Shirley Duckworth-Oates has lowered her rates. Shirley Duckworth-Oates MBCA, MSTAT, MATI Bsc Hons(Healthcare);Bsc Hons (Chiro); Msc.(Psych) Doctor of Chiropractic and Teacher of the Alexander Technique Telephone 0161 773 3395 Treatment rate for Swinton Running Club members: £25 (normally £35)
Special Discount Rate for Swinton Running Club Members
The usual price per session is £35, SRC members, on production of a current English Athletics card, will only pay £25. This offer is available at both the Leigh Road and Prestwich clinics. Anyone who wants to access the service but does not yet have their card can contact Barbara who will contact the clinic on their behalf. Please check there website for more details
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Race Results Corner Full race results can now be found on both the Swinton Running Club Website and the forum If you have ran a race and cannot find the details on either site please let me know.
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Secretary Steve Doxey Treasurer Ian Thomas Membership Secretary Barbara Bayliss Social Secretary Jonathan Mellor Club Captain Steve Doxey Ladies Captain Rebecca Mills Web Site & Forums Steve Hart Swinton Running Club is proud of its friendliness and welcomes newcomers to come down and meet us for a run, to see if we meet your expectations. We meet at 7:30pm on Mondays and Wednesday at Swinton Moorside Cricket Club. The club can provide you with the opportunity to train and compete at whatever level you choose. We are affiliated with England Athletics for Road, Fell and Cross Country running. We have members from fun runners up to International level - all enjoying taking part in a sport that provides the chance for everyone to find the event that suits them best. We regularly compete in local races at all age and ability levels. Some members just come down to the club to run and don't want to enter races, but prefer to train with like minded people and enjoy the social side of being with a club.
We hope that you enjoy this occasional newsletter. If you are sick of it clogging up your in box, let me know and I will take you off the circulation list.
Steve If you have any race reports, photos, announcements or any news that would be of interest to the others members please let just know.
Lauren Website Forums
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