May 2011 by Swinton Running Club

Swinton Running Club V O L U M E

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THIS MONTH 

Race Reports

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Race Advice

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Race Results

A N OT H ER MA RAT H O N M O N TH F O R SW I N TON RU NN I NG CL U B

INSIDE

Edinburgh Marathon 2011

THIS ISSUE: Congratulations

European Indoor Athletics

Wardle Skyline Fell Race

South Cheshire 20

Bluebell Trail 10

The Delph Branch

Blacksticks Blue 10K

Haigh Hall 4 Mile Race

Mobberly 5.3 Mile Race

BUPA Great Manchester

Edinburgh Half Marathon

Edinburgh - Rebecca

Edinburgh - Emma

Edinburgh - Sharen

Stockholm Marathon

Stockholm Supporters

Blackpool Beach 10K

Spotted

Inter Club Challenge

Central Lancs Grand Prix

Horwich Race

Up and Coming Races

Committee Minutes

Membership

Social Events

Race Results

Contacts

Congratulations to Emma Murphy 03:43:55 Cara Anderson 03:57:15 Rebecca Mills 03:57:59 John Pickup 04:14:47 Steve Hart 04:14:59 Carol Hart 04:37:10 Sharen Roberts 04:38:13 Lisa Ottiwell 04:39:55 Phil Summers 04:40:50 Susan Bean 05:21:41 Fiona Mcauley 05:25:57

Stockholm Marathon 2011 Congratulations to Lauren Marsden 03:28:28

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INDOOR EUROPEAN VETE RANS ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS (GHENT, BELGIUM)

PHOTOS OF STEVE DOXEY PERFORMING AT THE EVACS IN GHENT HAVE YOU READ STEVE’S REVIEW IN LAST MONTHS NEWSLETTER

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Race Reviews Wardle Skyline Fell Race, 9th April 2011

BM 7M /1250’

The start for this race is at one of the most impressive Scout Huts I think I‟ve ever seen It‟s the building on the right in the picture. Getting there was the hard part really as the sun was shining and when the sun shines the couch dwellers decide to head for the nearest piece of „countryside‟ that has a car park close by, which in this case is either Hollingworth Lake or Watergrove Reservoir - add in a few roadwork‟s and the resulting chaos meant the start was put back to allow people to get there. For me and Barry though ( and indeed Barbara - so where were you?!) it‟s a stone‟s throw from home so a good choice.. It was a beautiful day with views to die for and as ever on the ascents of fell runs I generally feel as though I may well be dying - but not today. Today was a good day, a glorious day one of those days when you can run without thinking about it, in a world of your own. Back to the facts of the matter though - the secret code at the top here is what you see for all fell race‟s - race‟s are categorised A, B or C which gives an indication of how steep they are combined with how much is run on or off road, A‟s steep, C‟s not really and B therefore is a bit in the middle - it‟s all a bit more subtle than that but enough for here. The other letter is either, L, M or S - Long (more than 19.3 k), Medium (9.6k to 19.3k) and Short (under 9.3k) So for your average Swinton Runner like me, a BM is a good choice - long enough and not too steep. There were 182 taking part all neatly lined up on the road leading up to Watergrove Reservoir, with last minute instructions being issued by a man with a megaphone - no idea what he was saying - and it always seems a pointless exercise at the start of a race but maybe it‟s a man thing! Starting at the back of the field we headed up the cobbled road to the ressie and then a left downhill only to climb back up moments later and then onwards and upwards and upwards at which point the walking began for me - Barry had long since moved away up the field and out of sight and I dug in running all but the steepest parts and making steady progress. At about 2 miles the route eases off just at the point where you can really see the whole vista ahead of you and the circuit that makes up the skyline, with the reservoir down below always the focal point. I love running on the fells, you get a great sense of space yet there‟s always someone just ahead or just behind, it‟s quiet - apart from the heavy breathing SWINTON

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Race Reviews Wardle Skyline Fell Race, 9th April 2011 you look around you and it‟s beautiful and your mind clears - well all this happens on a sunny day with a gentle breeze blowing - but as I was running I did indeed drift off. That was until I caught up with the mobile disco - a young shirtless man (I‟d have kept it on if I was him!) - who clearly was unaware of the notion of a personal stereo. Still it acted as a spur for me to get a bit of a wriggle on - no excuses as were now heading downhill. A cobbled road was not good on the old feet and a moment‟s lost concentration meant I missed the last sign and headed off the wrong way, corrected though by 2 runners coming up behind. Back on course I now trailed 2 women with the sting in the tail of the last bit of climbing ahead. I felt good though and stuck to the job in hand, settling in behind the Saddleworth Runner ready for the final burst. Problem is Thursday night swimming we swim with a lot of people from Saddleworth and they had a big turnout for the race and I didn‟t want to get in the way of any team prizes so I didn‟t make a final burst but cruised across the line - happy with the day. That was a mistake, particularly for a chocolate lover as there were prizes for the first 2 Vets - chocolate prizes - and you can guess where the second Vet 50 prize went - yep to the Saddleworth Runner. Well what the hell, I‟ve given up for Lent and there‟s no guarantee I‟d have got past anyway!! Barry got a spot prize a £10 voucher - so there‟s karma for you. And all this for only £4.00 fell running is not only good for your health, well being, but your finances as well. Enjoy. Next up the Cake Race - 10 miles from Diggle to Marsden and back for the cakes ........

Maggie Full Results available here

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W ARDLE SKYLINE FELL RACE, 9

APRIL 2011

MAN Y THAN KS TO DAVE & EIL EEN WOODHEAD OF WOODEN TOPS.ORG.UK

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Race Reviews South Cheshire 20, Sunday 1th May 2011

Now I should have been lining up for this race surrounded by supportive Swinton runners, however, due to injuries and holidays I found myself all but alone at the start. Steve Campbell was there but (a) he was so far ahead of me he was all but a blur and (b) I don‟t think he knew who I was! So instead, all alone and quite terrified, I ended up having one of the oddest pre-race experiences of my life. To begin with I overheard a very lovely lady saying that she was planning to take it easy and run about 7 minute miles which amused me highly. Then a fellow male runner siddled up to me and asked me what my race plan was. Not wanting to admit I was basically planning to see how it went and plod round as best I could, I muttered something about negative splits. We had a little chat about his race plan (much more developed than mine) and his hopes for the Windermere marathon (far beyond my aim of surviving Edinburgh and making it to my 30 th birthday!) then it was time to line up. I was placing myself as far back as I could, so much so in fact I was actually backing away down the road. My new friend then decided that on a 3 minute acquaintance a hug would be appropriate. I actually thought he might be going in for more than a hug so hastily turned my head to prevent anything further and suggested that he probably wanted to get a better position at the start! Clearly if I‟d had my fellow Swintoners there to look after me this would not have happened so I hope you all feel suitably chastised! I was actually quite relieved when we started running - after all the pre-race excitement it was nice to settle down and get into long run mode. The first few miles were quite gentle and I had to concentrate on not going too fast. At this stage there were lots of other runners around me and it would have been very easy to get dragged along at too quick a pace. I knew that there were water stations at miles 3.75, 7.5, 11.5, 14.5 and 17 and given that it was a hot day I was planning to take on liquid at all 5 stations plus gels at the second, third and fifth stops. The first station soon came around and I had a short walk break (water was in cups and I know from experience I‟ll end up choking if I try to run and drink from these at the same time!) Shortly after this we hit the first of the hills. Nothing too long at this stage but a couple of them were quite steep. I stuck to my very simple game plan of keeping running as far as I could even if it was horribly slow! Between miles 6 and 7 we started to climb with a vengeance and I swear we basically kept going uphill all the way to mile 11! I had my first gel at mile 7.5 (I managed to get sticky gel all over my arm and face and was attempting to clean it off when I passed the first photographer hence the very odd face I‟m pulling in the photo!) which helped me up the hill to mile 10 where a lovely marshal (they were all lovely actually - and very enthusiastic given how long they were out there for us) SWINTON

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Race Reviews South Cheshire 20, Sunday 1th May 2011 warned me that there was a hill coming - what had we just been running up I wondered? This was a properly steep hill - so steep I decided that a quick walk might help. Noting that my walking was as fast the guy in front‟s running I concluded that my plan was good and that walking was not all bad! Someone had told me at the start that after mile 11 the worst was over so I was very pleased to see this particular marker. We did get a great downhill session at about this point which was very much appreciated. Sadly, however, the hills were not over yet. Somehow they managed to find even more uphill sections for us to enjoy! By this stage it was feeling quite hot and there was also quite a strong breeze (great when behind you, less good as a head wind!) which made the uphill bits seem even tougher. Rather than worry about how far I had left to go I tried to concentrate on just getting to each water station for a quick walk break and some more yummy gels (everyone‟s favourite in race snack!) Before I knew it I was through mile 14.5 and onto mile 17. After all the hills and with the heat I found the last 3 miles pretty tough. But with only 3 miles to go it didn‟t seem too bad - I just had to keep plodding on to the end! The last section of the race re-traced the start in the opposite direction finishing a little further down the lane and into the school playing fields. I was even able to manage an attempt at a sprint finish as we hit the field and almost managed to catch the lady in front (OK so I didn‟t actually catch her but I got close which is good for me!) My final time was 3 hours 9 minutes 41 seconds which I was very pleased with given the course and the conditions. Best of all I knew as I headed for home that my last pre-marathon long run was over and that it was time to taper! This is one of those races I‟d only do as a warm up for another race - 20 miles just isn‟t a distance I‟d do for its own sake! However, for anyone looking for a good marathon warm up this time next year I would most certainly recommend it. Yes, it‟s pretty tough but it‟s very well organised with lots of water stops, plenty of helpful, enthusiastic marshals and tons of support. The field did get a bit strung out and towards the end I spent a mile or so running more or less on my own but otherwise there was also the benefit of having some company on a long run which was nice after spending weeks with just the wildlife for company! Best of all, having survived a hilly 20 miler I had the advantage of knowing Edinburgh is actually a downhill course - how hard can that be??….

Rebecca Full Results Available Here

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SOUTH CHESHIRE 20, 1

MAY 2011

MANY THANKS TO BRYAN DALE FOR THE PHOTOGRAPHS

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Race Reviews

Bluebell Trail 10, Sunday 1st May 2011

The Bluebell Trail, the race instructions say it all, “not for the faint hearted”, but it helps if you‟ve lost a few brain cells. Fortunately many years of drinking beer, including the famous Holts bitter that destroys more brain cells than any other beer, left me mad enough to attempt the run for the 6th consecutive year. The drive over from Wigan was much quicker than my memory thought and I arrived within 50 minutes of leaving home so had plenty of time to walk around and acclimatise. It was a beautiful sunny morning, but the forecast was to be a few degrees cooler than the days before and there was a stiff breeze that would hopefully keep the runners cool. I drifted over to the Heath Rugby Union club where they were still setting up and after leaving them to get ready I was one of the first few to collect their number. Sharen and Carl arrived shortly after and after registering we went to look at the famous river crossing. The scaffolding was all set up on the far side with ropes across the river to help the more nervous runners. Having forewarned the race virgins we returned to the cars to prepare for the run with Carl staying in Sharen‟s car to keep warm. After stretching, warming up and posing for a pre run photo we made our way to the start in the grounds of Clay House where we met Shirley with her Sister Sheila. The run started promptly at 10 with a lap of the grounds then a short stretch on the road and into the first of the wood paths. This is a slow part of the run due to the terrain and the narrow paths and unfortunately Carl‟s hamstring injury got the better of him and he sensibly decided to retire before any serious damage was done. After a short road spell we again join the paths alongside the canal and the onto the Hebble Trail. Just before 4 miles we are back on the road and they‟d put an extra water station on before we reached the infamous Trooper Lane. For those of you not familiar with this “hill” a comment on the post race forum reads “OMG I never thought I'd ever say it but I have found a hill to top Wanufawr in the Snowdonia Marathon” and Shirley‟s view (as she was running as I had enthused so much about the Bluebell) was “Your name was MOST DEFINITELY mud when I was running it (TRUE, TRUE!) - but paradoxically - or should I say typically - like giving birth - at the finish all was forgiven”. Still I gritted my teeth and managed to run almost three quarters of the hill only just faster than walking pace,

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Bluebell Trail 10, Sunday 1st May 2011 but most walk and this is the furthest up I‟ve got running. Next year I‟ve got to stick to the hill training and it‟s all the way to the top, at least in my dreams. Once the top is reached the normal water station allows you to refuel and cool down then it‟s back on the paths for a gentle rise to the top of Beacon Hill where even the views of Halifax look beautiful. For the next four miles you‟re down then up again in and out of woods, with marvellous displays of the Bluebells in flower, then a final down to a short road section leading back to the canal then onto the river for the climb down into the river and the final cool down before clambering out and staggering, or for the fit, the final 100 meter sprint to the finish and the well earned goodie bag. Shirley was first back for Swinton in 1:48:37, Sharen next in 2:01:32 and I staggered in behind in 2:01:59. Shirley‟s sister Sheila had a great run finishing in 1:41:06 which I think was 2nd in her age category. This was my worst time by over 11 minutes as my legs suffered after Trooper Lane and I even struggled on the downhill sections where I can normally just let myself go. But I will still be back next year and for as long as I can drag myself out over this distance. This is such a great run and you feel like you‟ve achieved something when you finish. The course is “interesting” and mainly off roads and the marshals were almost as good as ours with some even offering jelly babies to help us along in the latter stages. I think next year‟s run will be on the 6th May so if you do fancy a challenge and fancy conquering the “Trooper” put the date in the diary and join the rest of the mad over in Halifax, passports are not required.

Ian Thomas Full results available here

TROOPER LANE

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BLUEBELL TRAIL 10, 1

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Race Reviews

Racing with the Delph Branch……………. THE CAKE RACE - 7TH MAY 2011

After the sunshine in Rochdale last time out, it was back to traditional Pennine weather for the start of May, heading off just a couple of miles up the road for Saddleworth Runner‟s „Cake Run‟ .... 10 miles on the hills above the Diggle Hotel. So in the wet and wind some 80 or so hardy souls set off, having paid our £4 entry including as much cake as you could return on the way back along with tea/coffee up to the Pennine Way and then off down to Black Moss Reservoir. Tucked in safely at the back of the field I was making good progress until we hit the slippy steps at Butterley Reservoir - a long way down and then back up the other side, and on up towards Marsden golf course on the other side of the fence and well into the rough. The steps did for me - all rhythm was gone, my knee started aching so getting back to the final downhill wasn‟t the chance for my sprint finish I‟d hoped for. I was wet, dirty, tired, happy and looking forward to my cake - which was wonderful. The Club have a cake competition which was won by the Creme Egg Cake - a masterpiece, which was part of the first prize!! After all that I managed to win 3 bottles of Stella - for finishing nearly last! Barry who finished much further up the field got nothing part from cold - waiting for me! I love Fell Runs!! HARLECH TRIATHLON - 15TH MAY 2011

A week later and we were in North Wales for the Harlech Triathlon - a joy, albeit again a wet and as the day went on a cold event. It‟s only a short event, 400m pool swim ( in a wonderful pool), then onto the bike - 28km up and down as below. Then it‟s onto the best bit - the run: over the sand dunes and onto the most spectacular beach with Snowdonia majestic as a backdrop. ..and then the sting in the tail the 1in4 climb to the castle. It‟s not far but it does burn your legs. When it‟s all over there‟s a slate medal and a tea and a bacon butty all included ...though you may wait a little to get the benefit of that. Poor Barry went off late in - pool swims of course can only have a few people at a time so it‟s a staggered start, with the faster swimmers going off last by which time the weather had deteriorated and poor old Baz was frozen barely able to feel his feet to put running shoes on. A great race to do though .....

KESWICK MOUNTAIN FES TIVAL - 22ND MAY 2011

A great week of activities culminating in the Borrowdale Trail Run on Sunday. A 12 mile, very much overpriced run (£25 for the signage and a man dispensing drinks and gels at about halfway and a finish time - so definitely not value for money). Everything we‟d done during the week we‟d managed to escape the worst of the weather but alas on Saturday the wind pretty much destroyed everything at the Adventure base and it was deemed unsafe for the ferries to operate to take us to the start - at Hawes End on Derwentwater for those who know the area - so our only option to get to the start was to precede the 12 mile trail run with a 3 mile run !!!! It was wet, it was windy and it was mostly rocky - though one guy could have done with the rocky early on as he lost a shoe in the mud shoreside almost just as we‟d started. I felt for him but there was a long way to go so head down and before you knew it we were on the first climb - there was about 650m of ascent overall. The scenery was just lovely but the going was hard - everytime my foot hit the ground it seemed to hit hard solid rock at a variSWINTON

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Racing with the Delph Branch……………. and towards the finish I felt tired, nearly missed a sign and felt myself slipping back in the field. I think that the tourists walking lakeside in the rain wrapped up in their waterproofs must have wondered what was going on - it was Barry‟s birthday so what else was there to do but eat cake!! Glad we did the run, enjoy it ? well not sure about that but Keswick is gorgeous and we‟d be back in a shot.

Maggie Full Results of the Cake Race Full Results of the Harlech Triathlon Full Results of the Keswick Mountain Festival

Maggie at the Cake Race

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Race Reviews

Blacksticks Blue 10K, Sunday 8th May 2011

Steve and I competed in this race last year and thoroughly enjoyed it and I was keen to do it again, and coincidentally so was Steve. The Blacksticks 10k is a lovely, well organized local race and this really shows in the care and effort the school PTA put into. It is also one of my familyâ&#x20AC;&#x;s top races due to the fantastic bacon sandwiches and the lovely cakes on offer, not that I got to sample any of them but I did get a nice cuppa after the race. The race this year was started by Bill Beaumont which was novel. I decided to start a bit nearer the front on this race instead of being caught chatting when the gun went off like at the Salford 10k. I knew that this race involved running up a big hill and then running down again but I had forgotten just how long and steep the hill was. The first few kms up the hill were ok but after setting off a bit too fast my legs started to suffer but the beautiful scenery and the support from the locals managed to get me to the top. The downhill part appeared to be over very quickly and was enjoyable with the sun deciding to shine on us. No sprint finish on this race as it finished on yet another hill â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one advantage of having done the race before is that you know what is coming. A piece of cheese for a finishing prize was interesting and my dad appreciated it when I posted it to him! Steve had a great race too and for his effort he received a spot prize filled with lovely goodies. I would think that by the time this race comes along next year I will have forgotten what a killer the hill is and just be reminded by Isobel about the fantastic bacon sandwiches and enter it again. Just as a side note; because Neil and the children had been enjoying the PTAâ&#x20AC;&#x;s wears we decided to throw Neil out of the car at Preston and make him cycle home!

Kate Full results available here

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BLACKSTICKS BLUE 10K, 8

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Race Reviews

Haigh Hall 4 Mile Road Race - Wednesday 11th May 2011 What goes up must come down right?! Well pretty much that is Haigh Hall, apart from they put the registration about a mile away only accessible by Marine Commando‟s with maps, Garmin Sky Nav uplinks and a Sherpa with Llama‟s! Wednesday night racings back for the summer season, always good when you work in Manchester and finish at rush hour, needless to say Horton and myself fled the office at bang on Five Pm to avoid repeating last year‟s last minute start line arrival fiasco! Collecting Phil from outside Mikes front door, (he was waiting there, he‟s not a Hobo and lives in a box outside the door in case you were wondering) and then collecting Adam we headed up the motorway to Destination Wigan! As mentioned previously Registration is at a nearby site at a rugby ground, this year it was also in a rather small room behind the main bar, the big room being populated by large men entertained by a Steel Band playing rather passable tributes to the Killers, Strokes and oddly enough Phil Collins. Registered about eight of us brave Swinton lot made the epic journey to the start, every other club jogged past having a warm up but not us! Rebecca tried to get a jog going but even that failed to inspire and as an added bonus while travelling to the start I managed to almost snap my ankle which was nice. Once at the start it was brilliant to see the wash of Swinton Red, 26 runners in all made the night a brilliant show! One of the best turnouts I‟ve ever seen, while everybody milled around I nipped off for a quick “moment” resulting in the second ankle snap of the evening thanks to some hidden bricks, limping off the pain using Mr Hart as a support I watched Mel wandering around with a start sign, rather odd I thought, but hey, perhaps he was going to don the Swinton Mankini Adam owns and do a boxing style start for the Ladies! Race on and the announcer came forth to explain that they were sorry for the small room at registration as there was a short notice wake for the Rugby club owner who‟d died recently, the thought passed my mind that he was not as sorry as the rugby club owner but hey; on we go! The course is simple enough, it is a mile and three climb upwards to Haigh Hall and then right into a big loop inside the scenic grounds, some lovely sights for the eyes on the way up only slightly ruined by the fat kid shouting “try harder “ at passing woman, one loop quickly becomes two and your done and now comes the good bit, you get to run down the big hill, the trick I‟m told is to turn off your brain and lean forward, quite easy for me really, I ploughed down the hill after the guy in white in front but he was a tad quicker than me, he finished a few seconds ahead of me, was a great finishing grid for Swinton, really showed the club colours for the Grand Prix, despite getting massively lost and Carol leaving Steve in the Woods on the return leg we all returned Safe and sound, as races go this one is a great little challenge for new runners and old alike, defiantly one for the calendar next year!

Paul Shier Full results available here

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HAIGH HALL 4 MILE RO AD RACE - 11TH MAY 2011

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HAIGH HALL 4 MILE RO AD RACE - 11TH MAY 2011

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Race Reviews

Mobberley “Round the Runway” 5.3 Mile Race - Thursday 12th May 2011 The name itself was enough of an incentive for me to sign up for it in 2010 and seeing how close to the runway we actually run meant that this is going to be a regular run on my calendar. Up until a week before it looked like I was going to have to fly the Swinton flag alone in 2011 but thankfully Lauren took pity on me and signed up as well. The morning of the race I received a text from Lauren informing me that she had already painted her nails for the race, hope you are taking notice girls, those of you who didn‟t bother at Salford, I will be checking at the next one J. After collecting Lauren from home early evening we headed off down the motorway towards the airport with me pointing out planes every few minutes, which was a theme that was to carry on all evening. We arrived at race headquarters, the Railway Inn at Mobberly in plenty of time to collect our numbers, attach them with millimetre precision onto out tops and head off for a warm up jog and another chance to watch planes go overhead. At the start we were outnumbered hugely by Wilmslow runners, everywhere we looked we saw blue and yellow. Not ones to be intimidated by this we palled up with a couple of Bury runners, Katie Geelan who was also a fan of looking glam at races and her team mate David Flood. At the off, Lauren soon left me in a trail of dust as expected. Leaving the pub behind us the runners headed off along the road and onto the trials leading to the runway path. The route follows the paths along the perimeter fence of Manchester airports second runway which gives the runners fantastic elevated views of the planes taking off. The path then drops down steeply to a tunnel underneath the runway and back up a long steep hill on the other side. Back along the footpaths eventually leading the finish line where Lauren was patiently waiting for me to finish. As I was just about to cross the line, two rough burly men decided they were not letting me finish in front of them and proceeded to barge past me much to Laurens disgust who promptly told them how terrible they were. The race was won by Damian Nicholls from Wilmslow in a time of 28mins 08secs, first lady was the glamorous Katie Geelan from Bury in 34mins 37secs and the ever glamorous Lauren came 3rd V35 in 37mins 32secs. I managed to finish in 46mins 4secs, knocking 5mins and 1sec off last years time. This race is in general a nice midweek run along off-road footpaths with friendly marshals so let‟s see if we can get a few more Swinton runners next year.

Sharen Full results available here

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Bupa Great Manchester 10K Run - Sunday 15th May 2011 38,000 people running round Manchester and paying nearly ÂŁ40 each to do so, you must be joking was my initial reaction when asked if I fancied taking part in one of the biggest 10k races in the world. The size of the Great Manchester 10k had always put me off; it won't be possible to actually get going for all the crowds I thought and it is a very commercialised race with a lot of profit being made by the organisers but this year was different... On Saturday night I was collared by a mate Chris who had already entered the aforementioned huge race and subsequently injured his back so couldn't run it the following day. So I became 'Chris Hart' and agreed to take his place in exchange for a reasonable donation to the charity he was running for. I didn't have chance to get in touch with anyone from Swinton but I knew a group of 50 people from FC United, the football team I follow, were running in their FC United shirts to raise money for a new ground, so met up with them on Sunday morning on Portland Street. The size of the crowd was incredible and there was a real din as everyone chatted in anticipation. It was impossible not to be impressed by the scale of the event and I was soon wrapped up in the occasion. We queued in the 'White Wave' which was the 2nd group of runners to set off and took up the whole of Portland street from the junction of Oxford Road (start point) to near Piccadilly Gardens. The elite and fastest runners having started at around 10:30. As 10:55 am approached the guy on the PA shouted encouragement, shouts of good luck to my fellow runners, tunes belted out of the huge speakers and we were off......well off to a shuffle. Around 11.00 am I crossed the start line and after a pedestrian start gradually increased speed. All the while I scanned the runners ahead looking for Swinton runners but it was like trying to find a needle in a haystack - they were probably all in the first elite wave anyway I told myself. The crowds by the roadside were immense and noise deafening as the runners passed some kind of party bus near GMEX with people waving and screaming from the top. There were times when I felt like screaming though as people stopped right in front of me or wandered into other runners seemingly oblivious there were another 37,999 runners on the road! It seemed that going down the verges or pavement was the best option generally, if a tad risky for the ankles. Thankfully once I approached Old Trafford at about 4k the running was less fraught and road less crowded. It was good to run past some iconic sites in Manchester like Old Trafford football ground and the Imperial War Museum. It was easier to run now and I thought I heard someone shout my name in encouragement from the crowd - surely not hallucinating already? No it turned out to be Sharen Roberts & crew supporting from the sidelines and resting preEdinburgh. The weather was getting warmer and very humid which made it a bit tougher from 6k onwards I thought. But the crowds cheering and the music blaring plus jelly babies offered by strangers spurred me on. The final stretch up Deansgate was amazing, so many people lining the road, roaring you on. We all collected our goody bags and quite smart T-shirts just as the heavens opened but I didn't care. I still I didn't see any Swinton runners but I knew they were there somewhere in the throng. Overall an enjoyable race, even though it was slowest this year at 46:10, with a great atmosphere even. You can see why it inspires some people to get into running. I might even pay to do it next year! Glyn Full results available here SWINTO

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BUPA GREAT MANCHESTE R 10K RUN - 15TH MAY 2011

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Race Reviews

Edinburgh Half Marathon - Sunday 22nd May 2011 Its Nine Am, I have just ordered two pints for the price of a small kidney and Mike has the worlds most anaemic bacon and egg butty, it can only be Manchester Airport and the years big Edinburgh Marathon festival weekend. It‟s been a tough old climb, SharEn has cried a river, I‟ve nearly broken both shins, Adam gave himself almost pneumonia, Mikes knee‟s fell off and to top it all Emma smelt like mouldy cabbage! Admittedly that had nothing to do with the training but hey ho! In the worst invasion since King Larry the Optimistic invaded Bradford, Swinton RC was off to Edinburgh, we‟d all decided like a low budget Challenge Anika to go by Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Mike and I had decided to use Fly B and sod the carbon footprint, Adam and Lauren were travelling by train, Emma, SharEn and Rebecca were travelling by broomstick, Steve and Carol had cheated and set off by Llama the day before and many others followed by car, of course we were the first to arrive in style admittedly including a short bus ride to Edinburgh, popping open Good ole Google maps we hunted down the Royal Terrace Hotel also running into a friend Adam Kennedy along the way who was up for a Stag do of a lad I went to school with, small world syndrome strikes again. Adam was providing regular train based updates on Eta and the three Sisters appeared to be stopping at every single service station between Manchester and Edinburgh! We had a nice few hours to explore and relax in our hotel! Mike and myself decided to carb up for the Half Marathon by hitting Pizza Hut, Mike‟s reasoning being that you got free Pasta, (we didn‟t see very much of that) I went for a Meat Supreme while mike stayed slightly more healthy with a Chicken One I think plus of course a Garlic Bread! Once Lauren and Adam arrived at the hotel we joined forces to recon the start line, finding it was an achievement as I may have navigated us in the wrong direction at first (déjà vu anyone) but we found it eventually, not much had been set up by then, only the PA speakers and a few parking warnings gave any clue to the race, slightly clearer indication came from the local shop who‟d conveniently put up the drinks prices and the ink wasn‟t even dry as I purchased a can of coke at the cost of my other kidney. Recon complete we headed back to the hotel, me going via Poundshop to avoid anymore Zimbabwe like inflation rises on drinks, on the return leg I received a text from the Sisters, no doubt during another service centre stop, it said and I quote “ Can you sort somewhere out for dinner, somewhere nice and not a Kebab shop. Can we have Italian? Not Indian obviously” not a please in sight anywhere manners fans, shameful! Still I spotted a rather nice place called Mama Roma‟s and booked us in for Seven Thirty! Joined by Phil, Fiona, her other half and of course the sisters of mercy; the Nice restaurant staff clearly taking one look at SharEn put us in the basement in our own area. Food was actually really nice, despite me being jealous that Rebecca‟s lasagne looked far better than my Spagboll then heading to the Frog and Bucket for a quick pint we called it a night eager for Sundays big Race. Like Horton, Race day came quickly; Horton and I found ourselves wandering down to the start in a blustery and rainy Sunday morning while far more athletic looking people warmed SWINTON

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Edinburgh Half Marathon - Sunday 22nd May 2011 up and down the hill put us to shame; ready for the race but not knowing what to expect I‟d packed myself with some sweeties in one hand and drunk as much water as I could without developing a hump. SharEn and Emma kindly came to see us off, both of them crying into each others arms (I didn‟t think my chances of survival were that bad!) quick photo call and we were off to the start. Mike was in the wave ahead of me so we said our good lucks and split up, Mike was ahead of me by one wave so he‟d be done first I thought, jammy bugger! One thing that struck us both on the start line was the sheer number of foreign runners, especially Italians, Edinburgh must be a popular one I was musing, I was even more surprised when the Start gun went BANG that the Italian runners didn‟t either surrender or run off in the wrong direction, it truly was a day of wonder! Into the race itself the run was a rather pleasant cruise down from regent road through Edinburgh and towards to seafront, I cleared the first mile in 8 minutes 16 seconds observing the first person there and then pull up to a walk holding what looked like a stitch, “woops” though I as I sniggered my way past! Running on past Holyrood Park and its lovely hills I felt fantastic, my pack was pretty heavy still so speeds were pretty much controlled by the ebb and flow of runners, I wasn‟t in a hurry anyway so I stuck with the group and enjoyed the view. Three miles had past rather pleasantly and we arrived at the first Water stop bordering Claremont park, cheered by lots of locals and a Group of Chinese style drummers we refreshed and headed on, about here was my first inklings of a blister started, only ten more miles to run on it. Ever forward to 4 miles and we past the Seafield Sewage works and rather grimly a MacDonald‟s directly opposite, I don‟t think I‟ll be stopping in that Golden Archway! From there onward we passed along the coast through Portobello, flat and constant with wonderful weather moments of blistering heat followed by freezing winds. At eight miles we passed away from the Coast into Musselburgh, looping via another water station and passing through a housing estate full of cheering people, nice I though! I was starting to flag a little here so I popped a sweetie of pure sugar and struck up a convo with a guy who‟d been near me from the start, turns out he didn‟t speak English so it was very short and very one sided! Once the sugar had kicked in and I‟d also stopped for a cheeky walk, which incidentally the nice camera people caught I was off again, we passed Musselburgh Racecourse and also rather cruelly the Finish line, on the other side rather athletic looking people were finishing the race with impressive sprints while I was pondering my way along. Passing the finish line does give you a rather optimistic sense, I was avoiding clock watching so I‟d not looked at my Garmin since I‟d started, I had no idea the remainder of the course was another 3 miles, by now I was struggling along slightly and chucked in a few more sweeties coupled with another walk and another bottle of water, the last bit of the race was up away from the start and then looped back down the same road on the other side, was nice to see Mr Horton although our high five nearly took us both out, never do that when your both running at each other like knights in a joust, the effect is very similar!

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Edinburgh Half Marathon - Sunday 22nd May 2011 To finish the race was a great achievement for me at 2 hours 5 and 26 seconds, despite running the distance several times in training I‟ve never actually raced it! I have my flag in the ground now and my aim for Cardiff in October is to push hard towards 1 hour 50. The ride back for me was almost as much fun as the race, making friends as I do, I was sat with a lass from Ireland, a lad from Edinburgh and some Southern French Basque region runners, they shared the wealth with Chorizo, cooked meats and wine! A winning post race combo for me! Quick post race shower and all rested up while we awaiting the Marathon lot to return via a beer in Wetherspoons then finding Lauren with the kids we killed a bit more time while Mike had a sleep! Sunday Evening was a tad of a sedate affair as Edinburgh seemed to contain all the extra‟s from Shaun of the dead shuffling around on dead legs, we hit Mamma Roma‟s for a celebration of Rebecca‟s birthday, highlights including her Free Ice-cream and SharEn ordering what appeared to be Turtle Shell disguised as her Calzone! As races go the Edinburgh half was a wonderful race, none too challenging and perfect for post injury come back running and new folk alike! Guess the question now has to be.... Where can Swinton go next!?

Paul Shier Full results available here

Swinton RC Edinburgh Half Marathon Squad 2011

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Runners Interview

Edinburgh Marathon - Sunday 22nd May 2011 HOW HAD YOUR MARATHON TRAINING GONE?

Not too badly all things considered. I‟d had a slight ankle injury early on in training which, coupled with some unseasonably warm Sundays in April, meant I‟d not managed quite as many 20 plus mile runs as I‟d planned but then again I‟m not sure you ever quite manage all the training you plan in the build up to a marathon! I‟d run some PBs over shorter distances the weeks before the marathon so I was confident that if nothing else I should be able to go faster than I‟d managed at London the year before. HOW DID YOU FEEL BEFORE THE RACE?

I‟d been surprised the week before the race quite how calm I‟d been especially as I‟d been a bag of nerves before the one previous marathon I‟d run. I felt equally calm the morning of the race until the last ten minutes before the gun when I suddenly felt sick to my stomach and completely unprepared! HOW DID YOU FEEL AT THE END?

Exhausted but utterly delighted to have managed to come in just under 4 hours. I must have looked a bit of a state as one the marshals pulled me to one side to check I was OK. WHAT WAS THE BEST MO MENT OF THE RACE?

Seeing the finish line and realising I‟d finish under 4 hours if I could get there in 6 minutes which would be possible even at a walk. I even managed something approaching a sprint finish although it has to be the most rubbish sprint finish ever seen! WHAT WAS THE WORST M OME NT OF THE RACE?

At mile 19 I felt like I‟d run into a wall. I don‟t think it was “The Wall” but rather “The Wind” as we turned into a pretty ferocious headwind. Coupled with the fact that I‟d already run 19 miles with 7 still to go and the fact that it decided to hail on me left me feeling pretty miserable and dejected. Somehow I managed to coax myself onto the next water stop where a quick walk and a gel helped me to perk up a little and shuffle on for the last few miles. WHAT WAS THE BE ST MO ME NT OF THE WEEKE ND?

Catching up with all the other Swinton runners at the end of the race to share in successes and war stories. Somehow non-running friends seemed to tire so much more quickly of my marathon stories than they all did! WHAT'S THE FUNNIEST/ODDEST/MOST INTERESTING THING YOU REMEMBER FROM THE RACE?

There are a couple of moments I remember as making me smile. I was overtaken by a man dressed as a lion (although he was a relay runner so I didn‟t feel too embarrassed!) I nearly took out a spectator two miles in with an empty water bottle (it rebounded off the curb, I wasn‟t actually aiming at him!) and best of all my very first gel went everywhere when I opened it including in my hair where it solidified nicely making it stick up at odd angles and taking me ages to get out in the shower after the race. WOULD YOU RUN ANOTHE R MARATHON?

Most definitely, I am already trying to decide where I fancy going for the next one! WHAT, IF ANYTHING, WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY NEXT TIME?

Other than trying to get a couple more long runs in during training I would also try to start more slowly. I knew I was going too fast in the early miles and that I‟d pay for it later on but it all felt so easy at that stage, cue another horrible positive split!

Rebecca SWINTON

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Edinburgh Marathon - Sunday 22nd May 2011 HOW HAD YOUR MARATHON TRAINING GONE?

At the beginning of December I was plagued with a calf and knee injury. I had numerous trips to the physio, podiatrist and even an MRI scan. As I was out for three months altogether, I missed quite a bit of build up training and my physio at the time recommended I deferred my place for next year. There was no chance I was doing that and I knew if I could start some light running by the middle of February then I would have a fighting chance of being ready in time. Whilst injured I crossed trained at the gym and went swimming to try and keep some fitness. Once the training got into full swing I loved it. The long runs were by far my favourite part and the only downfall was as the long runs increased so did the warm temperatures and I suffered a number of „Princess Moments‟ (foot stamping, crying and sitting on the forecourt of Tesco‟s petrol station and refusing to run any further to name a few). I did let my speed training go as I was usually too tired to train on the Monday nights after the long runs over the weekend. On the plus side I have ran a PB at every race I have entered this year which makes the tantrums (sorry training) worth it. HOW DID YOU FEEL BEFORE THE RACE?

For anyone who knows me well, they know how nervous I get before a race. It‟s ridiculous as no one is forcing me to race, there isn‟t any pressure and I enjoy doing it but I always seem to have a complete melt down. For about six weeks leading up to Edinburgh I was manic. Every email I got from the marathon people brought on a new set of tears, watching London marathon and the tears came, my number arrived- tears, packing my case- tears, I think you get the picture. HOW DID YOU FEEL AT THE END?

At the time I was expecting a „runners high‟ at the end but I think I was that tired all I wanted was to see my little girl and have a massive cuddle off her. The finish was a bit of a let down as it was a battle to get through to the meeting area and spectators kept standing on me and pushing me out of the way and I got quite fed up. Physically my legs were aching and my only complaint was a blood blister on my big toe and couple of loose toenails. I am writing this report nearly a week after the run and now the soreness has worn off I feel amazing and actually really proud of myself and of everyone who ran over the weekend. WHAT WAS THE BEST MO MENT OF THE RACE?

I had a few highlights along the way which were: 1. Going through the finish line!!! 2. Realising I had managed the qualifying time for the „Good for Age‟ for London Marathon 3. Quite early on in the race I saw a bloke with a t-shirt which said „pain is temporary but pride is forever‟. This became my mantra throughout the run and even when things became tough I kept this saying in my mind. 4. The scenery was changeable which kept things interesting. Lovely beaches, rolling countryside, towns and a park 5. The supporters were brilliant and clapped and cheered everyone. WHAT WAS THE WORST M OME NT OF THE RACE?

I got really bad cramp at 21 miles in my hamstring and calf which I can only assume was when I hit the wall full pelt! I didn‟t dare stop and stretch as I didn‟t think I would ever get going again. The weather was pretty awful about this point. We were running into a 22 mph headwind, got battered by hailstones and then got drenched off the rain.

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Edinburgh Marathon - Sunday 22nd May 2011 WHAT WAS THE BE ST MO ME NT OF THE WEEKE ND?

Apart from spending time with my amazing friends I loved seeing everyone after they had finished and the look of relief and pride on their faces. WHAT'S THE FUNNIEST/ODDEST/MOST INTERESTING THING YOU REMEMBER FROM THE RACE?

I didn't have any funny moments- well none that could have been repeated for the newsletter!!! WOULD YOU RUN ANOTHE R MARATHON?

Without a doubt I would definitely do another one. I had already signed up for Snowdonia marathon in October which I am very excited about doing and hope to do London Marathon in April. WHAT, IF ANYTHING, WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY NEXT TIME?

I have realised the importance of cross training and would make sure I did more core work and weights and would also make sure I did some speed work as that is still really important

Emma

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Edinburgh Marathon - Sunday 22nd May 2011 HOW HAD YOUR MARATHON TRAINING GONE?

Started off really well until I decide to go on holiday and completely miss out the most important weeks of training when I should be doing my longest runs, tried to play catch up when I got back but it all went a bit wrong which resulted in me cutting a run short with hip pain and having my confidence crash to zero. HOW DID YOU FEEL BEFORE THE RACE?

Terrified. Couldn't stop crying as can be verified by Emma all weekend and the very supportive Steve H at the start line. HOW DID YOU FEEL AT THE END?

Absolutely elated. Couldn‟t stop crying, seems to be a theme forming here. WHAT WAS THE BEST MOMENT OF THE RACE?

Seeing the finish line and knowing I was definitely going to finish my first ever marathon. WHAT WAS THE WORST M OME NT OF THE RACE?

My Garmin watch deciding to pack up just as I crossed the start line. Bit of panic set in till I resigned myself to the fact that I could still run without having to know how many miles I had done. WHAT WAS THE BE ST MOME NT OF THE WEEKE ND?

The fantastic support from the crowds and wonderful Swinton club friends. WHAT'S THE FUNNIEST/ODDEST/MOST INTERESTING THING YOU REMEMBER FROM THE RACE?

On the drive up to Edinburgh when Emma announced she didn‟t believe that wolves were real and thought unicorns were a cross between a horse and a rhino!!! WOULD YOU RUN ANOTHER MARATHON?

Abso-sodding-lutely WHAT, IF ANYTHING, WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY NEXT TIME?

Probably nothing. I went, I ran, I finished, I survived, job done.

Sharen

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EDINBURGH MARATHON FESTIVAL 2011

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Race Report

Stockholm Marathon - Saturday 28th May 2011

London 2009: “That‟s it; I‟m never doing another marathon – EVER!” At the time, I really meant it… However, Adam decided he was going to give the marathon another go and chose Edinburgh 2011 as his goal. I wouldn‟t have been able to join him as I had Patrick to look after, but it did make me start considering the distance again and looking for alternatives. Stockholm appealed as it was only 6 days after Edinburgh so at least I would be training at the same time as other Swintoners in the marathon mindset. Also, it was on the May Bank Holiday weekend (and the race was on Saturday) so it provided an opportunity for a weekend away in a city we hadn‟t visited before. It didn‟t take me long to talk myself into it and I‟d booked my place, flights and hotel within minutes. Training during January, February and March went really well, with two half-marathon PB‟s in Haweswater and Ironbridge. April was a disaster with a throat infection holding me up for two weeks and meaning that I had to miss Coniston – well, the racing bit anyway!! After that, I stupidly tried to do too much too soon and ended up triggering an old Achilles injury – another two weeks gone. On the bright side, I could still row whilst injured and I have no doubt that the time spent on the rowing machine in lieu of running maintained my stamina. May soon came around and marathon confidence was low. Then, Annie (my beloved grandma) became very ill and sadly died in hospital on my birthday – May 18th. In addition, I had the trip to Edinburgh for Adam‟s marathon on May 22 nd, a job interview on May 23rd (I got it!) and the funeral on May 26th – an emotional rollercoaster that took my mind off the marathon somewhat. May 27th The journey to the airport was a nightmare – we had left in plenty of time but Friday evening traffic was extremely busy and we ended up in a queue - not moving. At this point, I demanded to Adam, “Do something!!” What on earth he was supposed to “Do” I‟m not really sure, and my usually placid husband actually shouted at me and threatened to drive back home. We eventually made it and got to Stockholm late on Friday night, welcomed by extortionate taxi and alcohol prices! May 28th – Marathon Day After a good night‟s sleep, we were up early for breakfast. We then made our way to the registration and expo, close to the 1912 Olympic Stadium. Registration was well organised and the atmosphere was superb. I made my way to the start at about 11am, where I chatted to fellow Brits before the race started at 11.30am. The course consisted of 2 laps – the first was 15k; all in the city and mainly flat except one climb to cross Vasterbron Bridge at around the 10k point. The second lap followed the same course for about 4k, then veered off into Gardet and Djurgarden – these were greener park areas, with some trail paths. This part of the race was more undulating, but nothing too challenging. Eventually, we were back into the city and had to cross Vasterbron Bridge again at about 35k. I‟d felt great until this point, but the last 7k was tough going – a case of gritting the teeth and hanging in there. I kept reminding myself SWINTON

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Stockholm Marathon - Saturday 28th May 2011 that Annie was looking over me and that my dad (a former runner himself) was going to be so proud. The finish was actually on the track in the Olympic Stadium – this was certainly a highlight. I was elated to finish with a PB of 3:28:28. This is the first marathon I‟ve done and haven‟t said, „Never again!” at the end. Probably a good job, as I‟m signed up for Snowdonia in October! All in all, Stockholm Marathon was extremely friendly and well organised. Very noticeable was the distinct lack of fancy dress; I liked that about it immensely. Support en route was plentiful, but not „in your face‟ like it can be in London. There are lots of shouts of „Heja‟ and numerous bands to listen to on the way. The scenery, cleanliness and architecture are stunning – although I appreciated these much more after the race! The rest of the weekend was equally enjoyable, albeit expensive! We visited Skansen – an open-air museum and zoo. Also, we went on a boat trip and enjoyed a meal at Hard Rock Café. It was a great weekend – we have some lovely memories and an empty bank account! Thanks to everyone at SRC for their support and encouragement, especially long suffering Adam, who thankfully did not drive back home on that Friday evening. Two things about this trip that I‟ll not forget in a hurry: radishes for breakfast; pickled gherkins served as snacks during the race – some things in Sweden are just weird!

Lauren Full Results available here

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Stockholm Marathon - Saturday 28th May 2011 A REPORT BY THE SUPP ORT CREW (ADAM & PATRICK)

Friday I finish work early so I can pack and be ready for the trip ahead. Timing is all important for a trip like this so as soon as Lauren arrives back we load up and drive to school where Patrick is waiting. Patrick is bungled into the booster seat where Lauren is waiting with a change of clothes (and sweats to help calm Patrick). We now head for a car park outside Manchester airport where we will drop the car off and get taken in via bus. All starts to go wrong as I take a turn and go in the wrong direction. A prickling sensation runs down my neck as I can feel Laurens eyes stabbing into my back from the back seat. Time is ticking by as I make a u turn and head back. Dam rush hour traffic delays us further. Laurens face is getting very red at this point and I can sense she is about to burst. Patrick is edging his way to the car door (child locks are on mate so your suck). I activate my route finder on my phone only to realise I HAVE MISSED ANOTHER TURNING! Sweat is now running down my face as Lauran makes some helpful suggestions. Lets abandon the car and get a taxi, DO SOMETHING and Life has ended (probably mine) come out in quick succession. I retort with a loud SHUT UP but with little affect. Time is against us with only hours to spare. Suddenly we are there so we run into the office area but nobody seams to be in a rush (don‟t they know who they are dealing with). We get onto the bus and sit in silence listening to two lads and a woman who are on there way to Amsterdam where they are going to drink and snort until they drop. I think to myself that Paul should be with us so I could blame him. I check the time still only hours to spare. Manchester Airport Terminal 1, check in, bag drop off, sandwiches bought. What are we going to do now as we are a bit EARLY? The rest of the trip was a lot smoother with a great run by Lauren (venting some pent up anger) and a great City. Just one problem is that you can buy wine in bars and restaurants no problem but at sky high prices £31.00 for a cheep bottle of dry white. We searched supermarkets over the next couple of days but they only sold light larger (3.5%). It wasn‟t until I checked online that I found out if you want to buy wine or spirits or stronger beers then you have to go to a state controlled shop. Here you can buy alcohol at UK prices. Too late for that maybe next time. Edinburgh and Stockholm marathons completed we now pass the baton over to Steve Coleman honorary Swintoner to complete the trilogy (Chester Marathon) .And doing so raise money for Prostate Cancer Research. Many thanks

Adam PS My doctor tells me that I just get partial hearing back within a couple of weeks with no long term damage to my inner ear.

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STOCKHOLM MARATHON W EEKEND 2011

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Race Report

Blackpool Beach 10K - Sunday 29th May 2011 As we all know the weather has been quite erratic for the last couple of weeks and Sunday was no exception. It was grey, raining and very windy. In fact the weather report said winds of up to 26mph in Blackpool. Oh yes I had done my research! Now the last time I took my trainers onto the beach was in Australia at Christmas and it was gloriously sunny with beautiful waves. Quite the opposite of our iconic beach resort Blackpool. I entered online as I noticed the limit was 500 and I didn‟t want to miss out. As it turned out the entry was quite low. We all congregated at the mirrored ball which was to be the start and finish of the race. The race organiser gave us the last minute details and informed us that the tide had only just gone out as the winds had been keeping the sea in. He mentioned that we were to jump over the small wall at the bottom of the ramp to get onto the beach. The water was right up in places which meant the puddles were still quite large and we would have to run through them. He then said If we had any problems with that it was “tough sh*t”. I was liking this race! Within 20 seconds of running we were on the beach and my shoes were squelching from running through ankle deep puddles. A man a couple of metres in front of me placed his foot into a puddle which must have been deeper than he thought. His whole body fell in. Very comical! The wind was very blustery and came at you from the sea which meant no added help. Darn it! A pleasant race with nice organisers and a friendly atmosphere. I would do this race again and hopefully improve on my new PB

Vicky x Full Results available here

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SWINTON RUNNERS SPOTTED

Dan A in the Coniston Fell Race, Chris in the Market Drayton 10K, and Steve H in the Waterloo 15K SWINTON

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Inter Club Challenge 2011 2011 SEE'S BURNDEN R OAD RUNNERS JOIN IN THIS YEARS INTER CLUB CHALLENGE. THERE ARE 2 RACES, T HE FIRST RACE IS BEING HOSTED BY A&T AT THE GIN PIT ON WEDNESDAY 22ND JUNE AND THE SECOND BY BURNDEN ROAD RUNNERS ON WEDNESDAY 31ST AUGUST. AT THE A&T EVENT WE ARE HAVING 3 RUNNERS IN EACH TEAM RUNNING A 2 MILE LOOP EACH AND IS MOST LIKELY TO BE A X COUNTRY STYLE COURSE W HICH W ILL MAKE IT MORE CHALLENGING. WE WILL BE ASKING FOR RUNNERS TO COME FORW ARD AND VOLUNTEER TO RUN A LEG EACH AND WILL BE PUT YOU IN TEAMS OF 3 GOING OFF ABILITY, W ITH ALL THESE TYPE OF EVENTS THE MORE MEMBERS THAT TAKE PART THE BETTER CHANCE WE HAVE OF WINNING!

Wednesday 22nd June 2011 Astley and Tyldesley Leg Gin Pits

PLEASE TRY AND MAKE IT TO THIS EVENT ITS GREAT FUN, AND WE NEED TO TRY AND REGAIN THE TROPHY BACK FRO M A&T

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Race Series

Central Lancashire Grand Prix Series This years Central Lancashire Grand Prix races are fast approaching, with new races and one new club. 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.

Date

Race

Sunday, 20th February

Central Lancashire 5K

Sunday, 6th March

The Trotters 5

Sunday, 3rd April

Radcliffe 10km

Wednesday, 11th May

Haigh Hall 4

Wednesday, 20th July

Horwich 5

Wednesday, 3rd August

Chorley 4.4 Trail

Sunday, 14th August Sunday, 25th September

NVAC 10km at Bisham 2nd Swinton 10 Mile Road Race

Sunday, 2nd October

Gin Pit 5

Next Grand Prix Event

Horwich 5 Wednesday 20th July 2011

U S E FU L CL GP LI N K S Central Lancashire Grand Prix Web Site Swinton Running Club Forums UK Results ( on-line entries ) SportSoft ( on-line entries )

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On-line entry available at SportSoft SWINTON

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Up and Coming Races Saturday 4th June Peter Lowe Memorial, Hollins Green 5K

Sunday 3rd July Winston Runners Ladies 5K Run

Sunday 5th June Longridge Lions 7

Tuesday 5th July Rochdale 10K Road Race

Friday 10th, Saturday 11th, Sunday 12th June Rochdale Harriers 3 Day Event

Sunday 10th July Gill Pimblott Memorial 5K Trail Race

Sunday 12th June Morecambe 10K Potters-Arf Marathon

Thursday 14th, Friday 15th Saturday 16th July Radcliffe 3-Day Challenge Thursday 14h July Reebok Manchester 5K Sizzler 2 of 4

Sunday 19th June Staveley Stampede 10 Mile

Wednesday 20th July Horwich Jubilee Series 3/4 (CLGP)

Saturday 25 June 9th Lymm 5K Road Race

Sunday 24th July The Moonraker 10K

Sunday 26th June Trawden 7 Mile Multi-Terrain Race

Thursday 28th July Reebok Manchester 5K Sizzler 3 of 4

Thursday 30 June Reebok Manchester 5K Sizzler 1 of 4

Radcliffe Athletics Club Three Day Event Ladies won the team award last year, A great local event, lots of support from Swinton Runners already Thursday 14th July 7:30pm

Friday 15th July 7:00pm

Saturday 16th July 1:00pm

Bull Hill Fell Race

Summer X-Country

5 Mile Trail Race

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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Committee Meetings Regular meetings are now being held on the second Wednesday of every month at the club after pack runs. Notes from the April meeting below. The minutes for May will be approved at the June meeting and appear in that months Newsletter. Remember any member may sit in the meeting.

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Headquarters: Swinton Moorside Cricket Club, Deansway, Swinton, M27 0WH. Membership Secretary Barbara Bayliss

Name Address

Post Code Tel. No. Home Mobile No. Email Address Gender

Date of Birth

Place of Birth Nationality Disability please tick relevant box Non-Disability

Visually Impaired

Date of Joining

Learning Difficulties

Cerebral Palsy

Ambulatory

Wheelchair

Other

Previous Club (If Any)

Current Club (2nd Claim)

Do you intend to enter races in the next 12 months?

Yes

If yes please include an additional £5.00 for England Athletics registration I confirm that I am eligible to compete under UK Athletics Rules. I *accept/*do not accept that my personal data will held on a computer by the club. I *agree/*do not agree to the disclosure of my personal data in a list of members provided to UK Athletics and England Athletics (*Delete as applicable)

Signature................................................................................ Date............................... Fee Included £10.00 Please hand this form, together with the fee (Cheques payable to “Swinton Running Club”), to our Membership Secretary, Barbara Bayliss, or any committee member.

Swinton Running Club

Affiliated to UK Athletics and England Athletics

£15.00

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Social Events Pie Night - Last Wednesday of the Month Last Wednesday of every month.

Pie Night! Next one June 29th 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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