Active Magazine // August 2012 by Active Magazine

! E E

What to do and where to go this summer

STA M FOR D & RU T L A N D’S SPORT A N D L E I S U R E M AGA Z I N E

Great Expectations

Rutland Water Fly Fishing Don’t know a posh tosh from an orange blob? We’ll help! Oakham’s athletics triumph Burghley Sixes’ dramatic final Stalwart, What Goes on Tour, Kitbag and more….

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ISSUE 2

Our runner on Uppingham’s Mad Horse run www.theACTIVEmag.com

ISSUE 2 // AUGUST 2012

Run Alexa, Run!

AUGUST 2012

Local teams previewed as football season kicks off

21/07/2012 16:05

Aslackby, Lincolnshire For equestrian lovers, the arrival of Victoria Farm near Aslackby to the property market; within easy distance of Bourne, Stamford and the A1, it offers a tempting prospect not to be missed. Combining an immaculately presented modern house with an impressive yard created from a range of traditional and modern buildings, a 40m x 20m Charles Britton Manège and watered paddocks with around 18 acres in total, the property is perfect for equestrian or leisure use; it even includes a recently installed tennis court. What really makes Victoria Farm stand quite literally head and shoulders above other properties, are the amazing views. Being almost equidistance between the pretty stone-built villages of Kirkby Underwood and Aslackby, Victoria Farm occupies an elevated position, commanding panoramic views of the surrounding rolling countryside – something that can be enjoyed from virtually every room in the house. Built in 2006, the house is heavily influenced by the architectural attributes of the Victorian era, with well proportioned rooms, oak doors and large windows that maximise the ingress of natural light. The accommodation is ideal for family and entertaining alike and offers flexibility with formal and informal living areas, spacious bedrooms, office and leisure space – all set out over three floors. The equestrian buildings similarly offer great flexibility. Currently configured to provide four loose boxes with tack and feed storage, an American Barn arrangement could easily be incorporated within the adjoining portal frame building for those who require more boxes, for which there is ample acreage in support and direct access to the bridleway network. Victoria Farm is for sale through Smiths Gore’s Stamford Office with a guide price of £1.1 million. Ed Russell Stamford Office t 01780 484696 e ed.russell@smithsgore.co.uk adpage2.indd 2

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21/07/2012 16:18

Editor’s Letter

Publisher Chris Meadows Chris@theactivemag.com Editor Steve Moody steve@theactivemag.com Production Editor Julian Kirk Art Editor Mark Sommer mark@theactivemag.com

MY DAD ONCE TOLD my cousin and I that the nearby lake was teeming with fish, so we packed up our rods, maggots and reels and set off, settling into a daily routine that lasted for weeks of the summer holiday, searching for the mysterious beasts hidden in the depths. They proved elusive and cunning, but the odd glimpse of our scaly foe kept our interest at fever pitch until we were told it was time to go back to school. At which point he gave us the shattering news there were more fish in the Dead Sea than in our murky little pond. Still, it kept us out of trouble, even if it put me off fishing for life. So this issue of Active is of real interest to me, and hopefully to you, too. What on earth do you do with kids when you have all those blank weeks stretching ahead? You could lie to them and send them off on the pescatorial equivalent of a wild goose chase, or you could come up with something more constructive, which is where our feature comes in: we’ve gathered together all the activities that will keep the little darlings inspired, fit, healthy and, hopefully, exhausted by the end of the next few weeks. It’s also coming round to that time again when the football season starts, even if it often feels like it never finishes. But while multi-millionaires fall over each other with all the thespian grandiosity of a Shakespearean tragedy, the game you can really identify with is taking place on your doorstep – and we’ve got a guide to our top teams’ chances this year. Despite my reservations about all things fishy, I have to admit our feature on fly fishing has got me wondering whether it’s time to don the waders again. After all, what can be more glorious than watching the arc of a line sent out across a shimmering lake in chase of a fine trout? And our fishing writer, Mike Gunnell, promises me there are indeed fish in Rutland Water.

Thanks, Steve

Twitter // @theACTIVEmag Facebook // www.facebook.com/theACTIVEmag

Contributors William Hetherington Dean Cornish Jon Tyrell Photographers Nico Morgan Jonathan Clarke Neil Paterson Production Assistant Abigail Sharpe Advertising Sales Rachel Meadows rachel@theactivemag.com Amy Roberts amy@theactivemag.com Lisa Ward-Taylor lisa@theactivemag.com Juliette Chapple juliette@theactivemag.com If you have information on a club then get in touch with us by emailing editor@theactivemag.com. If you would like to stock Active magazine then get in touch by emailing distribution@theactivemag.com. If you would like to discuss advertising possibilities with Active magazine then please email advertise@ theactivemag.com Printed in the UK by Warners Midlands plc. Active magazine is published 12 times per year on a monthly basis. ISSN 2049-8713 A Grassroots Publishing Limited company. Registration company number 7994437 Disclaimer Copyright (c) Grassroots Publishing Limited, 2012. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or be stored in any retrieval system, of any nature, without prior permission from Grassroots Publishing Limited. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Grassroots Publishing Limited or its affiliates. Disclaimer of Liability. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the quality and accuracy of the information contained in this publication at the time of going to press, Grassroots Publishing Limited and its affiliates assume no responsibility as to the accuracy or completeness of and, to the extent permitted by law, shall not be liable for any errors or omissions or any loss, damage or expense incurred by reliance on information or any statement contained in this publication. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of the advertising material which they submit to us and for ensuring that the material complies with applicable laws. Grassroots Publishing Limited and its affiliates are are not responsible for any error, omission or inaccuracy in any advertisement and will not be liable for any damages arising from any use of products or services or any action or omissions taken in reliance on information or any statement contained in advertising material. Inclusion of any advertisement is not intended to endorse any view expressed, nor products or services offered nor the organisations sponsoring the advertisement.

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CONTENTS NEWS 11 I STAMFORD RFC SECURE FUTURE New lease signed on club’s Empingham Road site

13 I LINCOLN JUMPCROSS

Fiona Hobby wins the Wittering event

Issue 2 /// August 2012

15 I YAXLEY WIN THE SIXES

Rain fails to spoil annual cricket event at Burghley Park

HEADS UP 16-17 I KITBAG

All the essential gear you need

19 I MARTIN JOHNSON

The Sunday Times sports writer isn’t in the Olympic spirit

20-25 I READY FOR KICK OFF

Looking ahead to the local football season

26-29 I SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER

A raft of fun and sporty ideas to help keep your kids active (and you sane!) over the summer break

30-35 I FLY FISHING

We’re surrounded by some of the finest fly fishing in Europe. International angler Mike Gunnell is your guide to the sport

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FEATURES 36-37 I ROLL OUT THE GREEN CARPET

Alexa Cutteridge ﬁnds out what’s on offer at Stamford and District Indoor Bowls Club

41 I HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Get yourself looking as good as you feel with some pampering treatments at local establishments

43 I EATING OUT

Active’s resident gastronomes try out another local dining establishment... this time it’s ?????

REGULARS 38-39 I A DOG’S LIFE

Will Hetherington and dog Ella take in the Hambleton Peninsula and do their best to resist some ﬁne food

45 I WIN OR LOSE…

Beer festivals, sausages and a brewery upstairs... the Grainstore Brewery in Oakham has plenty to offer

50-51 I FITNESS AND HEALTH

Ways to lose weight, eat more healthily and make yourself feel better

ROUND UPS 49 I SCHOOL SPORTS

A round up of what’s going on in local school sports

52-55 I FINAL SCORES

How clubs in the Stamford and Rutland area are getting on

56 I STALWART ghghgC

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In Play

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Yaxley win the Burghley Sixes Despite the bad weather, Burghley Park Cricket Week was another huge success, with Yaxley triumphant in the Sixes competition, which pitched 16 local teams against each other.

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In Play

Rutland goes cycling mad With success in the Tour de France and hot favourites in the Olympics, British cycling has never been bigger, and in Rutland we have some of the best routes in Britain, as well as all sorts of events, charity rides and triathlons. This month, the Reservoir Cogs Sportive hopes to attract hundreds of riders to the area.

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% off

In Crew Clothing Stamford during the Olympics

www.crewclothing.co.uk *Discount valid in Crew Clothing Stamford for the duration of the Olympic Games (27th July â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12th August 2012) with this voucher. Not valid with any other offer, on sale lines or Junior Crew.

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22/07/2012 08:55

News

Stamford Rugby Club secure future with new ground lease New 21-year agreement with South Kesteven District Council allows the club to remain at their Empingham Road home and concentrate on the game of rugby STAMFORD RUGBY CLUB have secured a new 21-year lease with South Kesteven District Council on their Empingham Road premises. The new deal also incorporates the changing rooms the club has been renting since the 1950s. Club president Steve Fowkes has been in negotiations with the council for over a year to finalise the terms. He said: “It has been quite a drawn out process. “However, we are now delighted to secure the future of rugby here for all of our members, especially our mini and junior section. “The inclusion of the changing rooms will give us scope to make further improvements that the council were reluctant to make due to on-going financial constraints. “Players are just getting back into pre-season training with club head coach Dave Laventure now being ably assisted by newly-appointed first XV manager and former Peterborough coach Richard Mardling.”

BARNACK BOWLS CLUB AFTER NEW MEMBERS

Barnack Bowls Club is a er new members. Boasting one of the finest greens in the area, the club’s aim is to cater for every type of bowler from the more serious to those who just want to socialise and play for fun. They have three teams who play every week in the Stamford bowls league, as well as the local Club 60 and the Weekend Leagues. There are also ‘in club’ competitions and gala days throughout the season. For those who just wish to play socially the six rink green is open seven days a week. There are also organised ‘ roll-ups’ on Tuesday and Thursday a ernoons.

RUTLAND BIRD FAIR

WANT TO JOIN IN? Stamford Rugby Club provides rugby for all ages from under fives to veterans, and anyone wishing to join the club can get in touch via the website: www.stamfordrufc.co.uk Seniors training is on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7pm, while the mini and junior section will begin their training on Sunday, September 2, from 10am.

Take to the skies? Peterborough and Spalding Gliding Club holding two open days Peterborough and Spalding Gliding Club are having open days at the club for non-members to come and have a look around. At this year’s open days, on September 1 and 2,

Shorts

they are offering discount flights and vouchers available on the day, a variety of gliders on display, BBQ, refreshments and stalls and a flight simulator. // For more information visit www.psgc.co.uk

The best of British food and drink, the most exciting British eco-holiday destinations, inspirational British wildlife charities and the most talented British artists and photographers, altogether in a field on Britain’s best Nature Reserve in Britain’s most perfectly-packaged county. That’s the claim of organisers of this month’s Rutland Bird Fair taking place at Egleton from August 17-19. There’s an events and lecture programme packed with presentations, quizzes and workshops from experts on ornithology too, including Bill Oddie ‘Unplucked’ and Nigel Marven offering a world exclusive in his presentation ‘Wild Colombia and Untamed China’. // For more information and to book tickets, visit www.birdfair. org.uk.

WHAT GOES ON TOUR… ...ends up in Active

In the rainiest summer ever, Uffington CC toured the Lake District, Lancaster and Morecambe, one of the wettest places in England. Not much cricket was played, but Eric Morecambe’s statue did bring them some sunshine. Have you been on tour? Email your pics to steve @theactivemag.com

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A 20/20 CRICKETING EXTRAVAGANZA & GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT!! • KIDS FUN AC TIVITIE • BEER S TENTS • FOOD AND DR INK AVAILA BLE

PCA ENGLAND MASTERS versus THE DEAN HEADLEY INVITATION XI FRIDAY 27th JULY 2012

STAMFORD SCHOOL GROUNDS • Gates Open at 9am • 10.00-12.00 - Under 10’s Kwik Cricket competition - featuring 16 local teams • Food and drink available all day - locally supplied • 2.00pm – 20/Twenty Game PLAYERS CONFIRMED BUMBLE • DOMINIC CORK • MARK EALHAM • GLADSTONE SMALL DEVON MALCOLM • MAL LOYE • JOHN EMBURY • CHRIS SCHOFIELD NEIL FAIRBROTHER • PHIL DEFREITAS • PAUL NIXON SHAUN UDAL • DEAN HEADLEY • ANDREW FLINTOFF

TICKETS & HOSPITALITY TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE VIA THE WEBSITE – THERE IS LIMITED AVAILABILITY

www.englandmastersstamford.co.uk Hospitality tables, sponsorship and advertising opportunities; Email: info@englandmastersstamford.co.uk p.20 Ad.indd 44

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News

Fiona Hobby wins Lincoln JumpCross British Olympic hopefuls and stars of the future were out in action at Grange Farm for a round of JumpCross A STAR STUDDED line-up including British Olympic hopefuls competed in this year’s Lincoln JumpCross Eventer’s Challenge, which was won by Fiona Hobby. With a £3,000 first prize at stake and an £8,500 prize fund donated by Lincoln horse health products, the field at Gange Farm, Wittering, included eventing stars Mark and Tanya Kyle, Oliver Townend, Piggy French, Clayton Fredericks and Matthew Wright.

Above and right

Fiona Hobby is presented with the trophy and cheque by Jim Bowen, managing director of Sponsor Battles. Right: Oliver Townend

The winner’s purse fell to Fiona Hobby and Royal Colours with the talented 11-year-old just gaining the lead over Robin Dunlop’s well designed track that featured water crossings, combinations and joker fences allowing riders to improve their score at the very end of the round. Fiona said: “It was a great competition and a wonderful day. The prize money is excellent and I couldn’t be more pleased. Royal Colours is a careful horse and loved the track, JumpCross is a brilliant sport. “The course was well designed and required the rider to really think about the approach to fences and the speed you were travelling at.” Riders took part in a two-round competition, one in the morning and one in the a ernoon, with the scores from both combining to determine the winners. Oliver Townend riding Pepper Anne finished second a er two good rounds, while third place went to Zoe Adams and Satonamillion. Robin Dunlop of JumpCross said: ‘The Lincoln JumpCross Eventer’s

RESULTS Lincoln JumpCross Eventer’s Challenge 1st Fiona Hobby, Royal Colours 2nd Oliver Townend, Pepper Anne 3rd Zoe Adams, Satonamillion 4th Angus Smales, The Pilgrims Progress 5th Jess Butler, Kra y Pat 6th Piggy French, Wutella JumpCross Young Rider Challenge supported by Lincoln

Challenge is now well established in the calendar. It was a great day, with top class competition and we are very grateful for the support from Lincoln.” Also running was the JumpCross Young Rider Challenge, with riders from all over the country competing. First place went to Stamford’s Rachel Dinwoodie on Ringwood Abi. For more information contact JumpCross on (01780) 782356 or visit www.jumpcross.com

1st Rachel Dinwoodie, Ringwood Abi 2nd Lucy Jakes, Comet 3rd Annie McIntosh, Jack 4th Charlie Bowman, Cider Glider 5th Louise Bodily, Lottie 6th Ross Hemmings, Honestleigh Humbug Lincoln JumpCross Team Challenge 1st Rachel Dinwoodie and Daniel Delsart 2nd Lucy Jakes and Jolyse Clancey 3rd Annie McIntosh and Laura Shears 4th Charlie Bowman and Emma Hyslop 5th Louise Bodily and Oliver Townend 6th Ross Hemmings and Angus

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News

Q&A

Time for a kickabout? Catmose Sports Centre in Oakham hosts weekly ‘drop in and play’ games in a bid to get more people back into playing football FOOTBALLERS ARE BEING URGED to take up the game again in Oakham with the launch of a new FA Mars Just Play! Centre. The “FA Mars Just Play”! programme is a partnership between The FA and Mars chocolate that aims to tackle the decline in adult football. According to Sport England research, the number of adults playing regular grassroots football in England is declining due to a lack of quality facilities, increased apathy, lack of time, inflexible football options and logistical difficulties that hamper entering the game. This year will see the set-up of 200 centres across England offering informal, fun kickabouts – hour-long sessions of training, skills and games. Players just turn up and play – it’s jumpers for goalposts for adults.

SARA MICKLEBURGH Local athlete Sara Mickleburgh has qualified to represent Great Britain at the World Triathlon Event in Auckland, New Zealand, in October. Now aged 24, Sara went to both Stamford High School and Bourne Grammar

How did you get in to triathlon? I got into triathlon by accident. At 18 I was a member of Bourne Town Harriers running club where I competed to beat my own times, not race anyone else. I then heard about Stamford Tri Club who were offering some swimming sessions. I was useless at swimming but thought I’d give it a try because I kept getting so many injuries from running. On my first session my swimming had improved a er just five minutes of coaching and before I knew it I had entered an Olympic distance race involving a 1,500-metre swim, 42km bike, and 10km run! What has been your most memorable event? The Little Belvoir Race - it was hideous! The swim was through thick black water, every stroke you took would result in dragging your fingertips through slime. I then had to run 400 metres up a thistle-covered hill in bare feet up to transition. By this point it was pouring with rain and freezing cold. The cycle was the hilliest I had ever done and my hands were so numb I couldn’t even change gears. I then did the run which was three laps up a beast of a hill and ended up being seven miles rather than 10km. But I still managed it in 3hrs 15 - my determination came out of nowhere! Describe your Dambuster 2012 experience... The Dambuster was brilliant, but a tough race with the wind and 12 degree water for the swim, leading the swim distance to be cut to 1,000 metres from 1,500. The best part had to be the run. I always love the run because I don’t have to worry about getting a flat tyre on the bike and not finishing. It wasn’t easy though, running over Rutland Water dam four times with such a strong wind, but the crowd support really spurred me on. It was here I qualified for the World Triathlon Championships. I finished with a time of 2hrs 24mins 50 seconds. I was 51st female out of about 250 and fi h in my age group 20-24 female. The competition was tough being a qualifying event so I’m delighted with that. In addition to the world event, Sara is also competing in the World Duathlon Championships in Nancy, France, on September 23, and the Bedford Classic on July 29 to try and qualify for the European Triathlon Championships in October 2013.

SARA’S TYPICAL TRAINING WEEK MONDAY // Swim 6.30-7.30am, 6:00-7:00pm run five miles cross-country TUESDAY // 6:00-7:00pm turbo on bike/hill reps on bike WEDNESDAY // 6:00-8:00pm cycle THURSDAY // Swim 6.30-7.30am; open water swim 5.30-6.30am; interval run 7.30-8.30pm FRIDAY // Swim 6.30-7.30am; 6:00-7:00pm run three miles best effort SATURDAY // Day off! SUNDAY // Long cycle (50 miles) or long run (10 miles) or brick set (25-mile bike, three-mile run for example)

CORBIS PREMIUM RF / ALAMY

WORDS ALEXA CUTTERIDGE

Stevenage Leisure has teamed up with the Oakham Town Partnership and Rutland Vets to launch the scheme at Catmose Sports Centre in Oakham. Running from 7pm to 9pm in two hourly slots, adults (16 + to pensioner age) will be able to turn up and play a friendly small -sided game on a Wednesday night against likeminded individuals. Cost is £2.50 per session and you need to bring nothing apart from your trainers (bibs are provided). Catmose Sports Centre organiser Alex Brockbank said: ‘The kickabouts are open to all adults of all abilities and it doesn’t matter how long it is since they have kicked a ball. “The whole idea of the sessions is to be fun and informal and I can guarantee anyone turning up will enjoy getting back into playing football.’

RESERVOIR COGS SPORTIVE LAUNCHES Cyclists can take part in a new sportive, called Reservoir Cogs, on Sunday, September 2. With a choice of start at either Rutland or Grafham Water and take either a 109, 70 or 58-mile route, passing through Oundle and using quiet country lanes. Organised by Rutland Cycling, registration is now open and riders can enter either online or at one of the company’s four stores. Sportives are long

distance organised events, the cycling equivalent of running a marathon, which involve completing a route within a particular time. Dan Murtagh, Whitwell store manager and road cycling enthusiast, said: “We have spent a great deal of time planning a professional sportive that makes the most of the great cycling country on our doorstep. “Riders will get free parking, a fully arrowed route with three feed

stations, mechanical back-up and emergency support. The event is fully timed and we’ll be giving riders discounts in the build up to help training.” To enter the Reservoir Cogs Sportive cyclists can register online or in-store at Rutland (Whitwell and Normanton), Grafham or Fineshade Wood. Information is available at www.rutlandcycling. com/reservoircogs and more help is available by calling 01572 737 624.

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CHARITY CORNER

79 MILES IN 48 HOURS FOR BLESMA

Yaxley pull off famous Burghley Sixes win With many a six hit, and many a pint drunk, the annual sixes event was a great success despite the rain, says Burghley Park’s Stuart Biggs THE WEATHER didn’t dampen spirits at the annual Burghley Park Cricket Club Cricket Week and Beer Festival, with the Sixes won by Yaxley. While some of the day games fell victim to the perpetual rain, all the sixes competition games were played, a testament to the groundsman Oli Hall and all that helped him throughout the week. With the previous year’s winners Barnack knocked out by Nassington in the first round all was to play for, with Laxton Park beating Stamford Rugby Club and Castor and Ailsworth also beating Old Oakhamians, notching up 100 runs in their innings. Tuesday’s first round games also saw Yaxley, Ufford and Newborough through to the quarter finals, with Uppingham and the Burghley Bears going through in their first round games on Wednesday, with Andy Larkin from Ufford scoring an unbeaten 48.

The quarter finals saw Laxton Park beat Nassington, Castor beat Newborough, Ufford Park lost to Yaxley and the Burghley Bears beat Uppingham. The Friday night’s semi finals were played in suprising glorious sunshine a er the torrential downpour Stamford had received for most of the morning and early a ernoon. The two semi-finals saw Castor & Ailsworth take on Laxton Park and Burghley Bears versus Yaxley. Castor opened the evening with a comprehensive batting display, this le Laxton with a tough task in chasing in which they fell short. Castor were the first team into the final and were now favourites to win it. The second semi saw Burghley bat first and post a below average score. However, a er previous bowling performances they were confident in pinning their opponents back, but Yaxley knocked off the runs with a few balls to spare. This set up a mouthwatering final between Castor and Yaxley. Castor batted first and scored an unusually getable score. Yaxley bowled tight lines as they had done all week and were very pleased and confident at the half way stage. Yaxley marched out to the crease for the final innings of cricket week 2012 and did not disappoint. They batted in a calm but aggressive nature and sealed the win in style with six that will have to be retrieved by one of the Burghley House groundsmen. Overall, the week was again a major success despite the weather trying its hardest to disrupt proceedings. There was many a six hit and many pint drunk and we look forward to doing it all again next year.

Paul Caffrey, Marc Stubley, Stephen Bull, Daniel Twiddy, Bradley Clarke and Dave Bush (pictured above, le to right) are organising a charity walk called A Little Stroll in the Country in aid of BLESMA, the British Limbless Ex-Serviceman Association. They are attempting to walk the 79 miles of The Wolds Way in Yorkshire in 48 hours, starting from Hessle on August 3 and finishing at Filey two days later. During the walk they will have to carry all their food and camping equipment in 50lb Bergans on their backs. The team has been training every Saturday for the last 10 weeks around Rutland Water. // To donate go to www.justgiving. com/country-stroll

SPORTIVE FOR H4H

A local group of cyclists and club runners have banded together to raise £10,000 for Help 4 Heroes and are organising North Luffenham Cycling Sportive event on August 19. They are calling on others to join the event. Organiser Terry Murphy said: “Our first challenge was completed on April 1 when more than 160 cyclists completed the Bike Sportive covering 50, 70 or 90 miles on quiet country lanes through local villages in Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire. When we raised more than £2,000 towards our target. “The Sportive covers distances from 50, 70 to 90 miles, riding on quiet country lanes through Rutland, Lincolnshire and Leicestershire. “It starts and finishes at 16th Regiment, Royal Artillery, St George’s Barracks, North Luffenham.” // Entries close online on August 16. For more details, log on to www.peterborough5x5challenge. org or phone Terry on 01778 346527.

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Feature /// Gear

Kitbag

Got the idea, but no gear? Here’s some great sporting stuff to spend your hard-earned on

Leicester Tigers away shirt This new tiger stripe design from Leicester’s new kit supplier Canterbury comes in varying fits – professional-fit for those who go to the gym enough, and ‘classic’ for those who spend more time in the pub. From www.store.leicestertigers.com Price £55-£80

Adidas Team GB Tee Show your support for Team GB over the next few weeks with this adidas t-shirt, complete with roaring lion and Olympic rings. What could be more timely? Available in men’s and ladies. From Rutland Sports, Oakham Price £20

Cube Agree GTC The beautifully crafted Cube Agree GTC is one of the best value carbon-framed bikes on the market, and is ideal for professionals and tech-savvy riders for racing and touring. From CycleWright, Baston Price £1,259

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Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon A trail running–specific model, the Spyridon provides the perfect balance of ‘foot feel’ and protection on rugged surfaces. A minimalist 3.5mm Vibram rubber sole provides impact protection from stones and debris, while allowing ‘proper barefoot dynamics’. From Precision Outdoors, Stamford Price £130

The North Face Base Camp Duffel bag Made from a durable laminate ballistic nylon and beefed up with extra bartacks and double stitching, this 42-litre traveller’s favourite bag is resilient enough to take any punishment that Air France baggage handlers or unco-operative pack animals can throw at it. From Precision Outdoors, Stamford Price £80

Elite Super Crono Power Fluid Trainer Has the terrible weather been getting you down? Then stick your bike in front of the TV and watch the Olympics from the comfort of your saddle while still putting in the miles on this Italian-made trainer. From CycleWright, Baston Price £249.99

Gray-Nicolls Quantum LE Bat Whether you’re a blocker or a slogger, the Quantum LE will suit any player style at the crease. Mid Blade profile and steep spine allow for a beautifully balanced pick up and an abundance of power. From Vitas Cricket, Peterborough Price £250 (usual price £360)

Hunter Balmoral Equestrian Neoprene wellies Ready for Burghley? Constructed from a new rubber compound, these boots boast unique protection from acids and alkalis found in animal waste that can ruin footwear. A rubber foot and neoprene leg offers protection and warmth and they have a kick-spur for easy removal. From www.hunter-boot.com Price £115

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Are you ready for the game season?

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20/07/2012 09:20 12:37 22/07/2012

Guest column

Synchronised snoring, a hop, skip and a jump and the ‘eternal’ flame The Sunday Times’ senior sports writer Martin Johnson isn’t quite in the Olympic spirit FORMER NEIGHBOUR called recently to tell me the Olympic torch had passed by the top of his street, and wasn’t it exciting? Yes indeed, I concurred, while at the same time thinking: ‘if it came by my kitchen window, I’d probably draw the curtains.’ The way I see the Olympic torch is this. It’s sold to us as some hugely symbolic semi-religious ﬂame sent down from a Greek mountain, and those who are chosen to run with it – usually for about a hundred yards – are privileged indeed. Well pardon me, but the truth is that thing goes out so often that by the time it arrives in the stadium the ﬂame is less likely to have been sourced from Mount Olympus as a box of Swan Vestas from a tobacconist’s shop in Luton. Sure, when the games are in full swing, it’s something for us all to get excited about, at least until you make the discovery that that chap who’s just run 100 metres in about half a second did it thanks to medication rather than dedication. And medication not available to the general public over the counter at Boots. Then there’s all the silly stuff, like Greco-Roman wrestling, and cyclo-cross. Or at the athletics stadium itself, with people running up with very long poles, which bend in the middle, to propel them over a bar so high you almost need an oxygen pack up there. Presumably the ancient Greeks invented this, but only with the sort of pole a sheep farmer might use, and over a wall about the height as the one at the bottom of your garden. And what, pray, is the triple jump all about? Or, as it

was called when I was at school, the hop, skip and jump. It is just about the daftest activity the Olympics has in it – with the possible exception of synchronised diving, which, when I was despatched to cover it during the Sydney Olympics in 2000, mostly resulted in an outbreak of synchronised snoring. Far more rewarding was a trip to the swimming, when I was slightly puzzled to see one of the 100 metre freestyle heats being contested by only one person. He was a chap called Eric, from Equatorial Guinea, and having belly ﬂopped off his block like someone on holiday in Majorca, he took so long to reach the surface we thought he’d drowned. Eric came home in personal best time a mere eight seconds outside the world record. For the 200 metres, that is, not the 100. It’s my loss, this surge of disinterest when the Olympics come round and I truly wish I could be more like the Australians when they had it in Sydney. Sydney taxi drivers rarely need an excuse to get lost, but one of my cabbies took a wrong turn frantically twiddling his radio knob in search of the archers. Not the everyday story of country folk, but the Olympic bow and arrow variety. ‘Strewth mate,’ said our man, almost cleaning up a cyclist as he leaned over the back seat ‘Aussies on for another gold here!’ I’d love to get that excited about the Olympics, I really would. And I happen to think also that it’s a lift for the nation to have one in London. But every time I think ‘right, lets get in front of the telly and cheer on our boys in the rowing’ I know that down in the Olympic laboratory the bofﬁns are peering at blood samples from Bulgarian weightlifters. And that’s me done for another four years. /// A U G U S T 2 0 1 2 1 9

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Feature /// Football preview

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Dean Cornish looks at the chances of Stamford AFC and our other local sides as the new football season draws near Photography: Jonathan Clarke

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ith the Euro 2012 football feast all over with another entirely predictable England quarter ﬁnal exit, the thoughts of any avid football fan immediately turn to the up-coming domestic season. Although the English national team is extremely well supported, most ‘proper’ football fans will prioritise their club’s fortunes over Roy Hodgson’s men, and while our area may not have a Premier League club, nor even one in the next three tiers of the English professional structure, there’s still a plethora of high standard football in Stamford and Rutland this season. Of course, there’s Peterborough United down the road, who will once again ply their trade in the Championship, but for true Stamfordians, Stamford AFC, otherwise known as ‘the Daniels’ are the only game in town, so to speak. Based in the Premier Kitchens Arena, the Daniels will feature this season in Step Four of the non-league pyramid (meaning they’re four promotions from the football league). It’s their fourth season in the catchily-titled Evo Stik Northern League Division One South, having been relegated in 2008 from the Evo Stik Northern Premier Division. Now to you and I, Stamford is hardly a northern town, but to the masterminds at the FA it is, and they will once

Feature /// Football preview again have to face trips to the likes of Sheffield, Leek, Market Drayton, Sutton Coldfield and Kidsgrove. There’s plenty of reason for optimism this year at the Daniels, and that’s mainly down to the return of former manager Graham Drury, who was quickly (and controversially) snapped up by the board when he left Corby Town at the end of last season. The Drury appointment caused a rumpus, not least because it meant the immediate departure of manager, Tommy Brookbanks, who wasn’t too pleased with the way he was edged out after guiding the Daniels to a top 10 finish last season. It also caused a stir with some fans, who remember all too well that Drury left Stamford four years ago, lured midway through the season to the newly-found money at Corby Town, Stamford’s local rivals. Drury’s departure and Corby’s money lead to many players following him down the A43, and the Daniels subsequently went through an awful spell, dropping from eighth in the league in January, to relegation in April. Many blamed Drury, but football’s a funny old game, and when Drury became available again after Corby’s recent financial turmoil, the board were surely right to snap up an ambitious and talented manager. Drury’s previous reign at the Daniels was very successful, and since taking over at Corby, he guided them to two promotions (to the Conference North), and reached the FA Cup first round proper in the last two years. Could he do the same at the Daniels? As well as recruiting a talented manager,

‘FOR STAMFORDIANS, THE DANIELS ARE THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN, SO TO SPEAK... AND THERE’S REASON

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Returning manager Graham Drury’s man-management skills are well known

Above and right

New young players have brought much-needed power and energy for the forthcoming season

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Feature /// Football preview Stamford have also been busy in the transfer market, having secured the signatures of some exciting players. With Paul Mayo, Sam Mullarkey, Gary King, Andy Hall and Richard Jones all being persuaded to come to the Daniels from Corby Town, Rob Murray joining as ﬁrst choice keeper from Grantham Town, and the fact that Drury has retained the services of Tyrone Kirk, Robbie Maddox, and David Staff, there is deﬁnitely an optimistic mood. Drury says he’s excited to be returning to the club and hopes to bring success once again. He says he’s pleased with the lads who’ve trained so far but won’t rule out a couple of changes between now and the start of the season. In terms of goal threat, Drury enthuses at the prospect of once again pairing Sam Mullarkey and Gary King together. Both players are familiar faces to Daniels fans, and since leaving Wothorpe Road, both performed well for him in the Conference North, with Drury saying that Gary King was Corby’. It’s testament to Drury’s man management skills that players of such quality have agreed to

come to the Daniels and play in Step Four. The Stamford manager says it’s the hardest league that the club have been involved in at this level, with the likes of big-spending King’s Lynn, and big clubs like Halesowen, Gresley, Chasetown and Northwich Victoria to contend with. However, with an experienced spine of a side, and Drury’s tactical skill, there’s reason to be hopeful of promotion back to the Northern Premier Division, and the potential of a good run in the FA Cup. Could Drury make it to the FA Cup First Round three years in a row? Stranger things have happened.

PREDICTIONS League: Stamford to finish third in the league, and get promoted in the play-offs. FA Cup: Reach the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup, and go out to one of the big Conference National sides. Want to check them out? There’s a pre-season game against Rotherham United on Tuesday, August 7. First league game of the season not yet announced at the time of going to press.

LOCAL HOPEFULS BLACKSTONES FC Stamford-based Blackstones FC, playing in the Eagle Bitter United Counties League (UCL), travel to Spalding FC, Holbeach United, Sleaford Town and Deeping Rangers, as well as making longer trips into Leicestershire and Northamptonshire. Management duo Darren Jarvis and Michael Goode are aiming for a top-six finish. Last year, they finished 11th, but with the addition of three to four new players, the Stones have a good chance of achieving that. With centre half pairing of Matthew Porter and Luke Hemmings and an injury-free Michael Nelson up front, they can reach their objective, and have a good run in the FA Cup and FA Vase, too. Season starts August 11 v Barrow Town. OAKHAM UNITED One of the most ambitious sides in the Peterborough League are Oakham United, who have plans to be Rutland’s first ever side in Step Five of the non-league pyramid, with hopes of promotion to the UCL. To achieve, they’re looking to move to a purpose-built ground at Barleythorpe. Oakham are aiming for a top-six finish, with the side buoyed by the return of Stuart Lamby, and Richard Nelson playing more regularly. UPPINGHAM TOWN Will be hoping for an improvement on last year, when they finished second-bottom in the league. In spite of their lowly finish, they remain in the Premier Division, and this year will be captained by Martin Bennett. Season starts on August 11 against Peterborough Sport Parkway.

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Stamford started pre-season with a 5-3 win over Bourne, with a goal from Gary King and four from Ricky Miller

KETTON, STAMFORD BELVEDERE, RYHALL UNITED Ketton have been in Division One for many years, but experienced mixed fortunes last season, managing to compete with the top teams, but faltering against the lower sides, leading to a mid-table finish. Last season’s manager Alex Griffin says: ‘With a couple of new signings, we hope to progress to a top-half finish.’ The side from Pit Lane are currently looking for a new first team manager, and anyone interested can email Aaron Young at aaron.theyoung1@gmail.com Stamford Bels also competed with the top sides, but lost too many to the division’s poorer teams, leading to a disappointing third bottom finish. This season, they’ve potentially lost a couple of players who are looking to move up with Bourne Town, but have a few new faces, including two players from Stamford AFC’s U18 side. Ryhall United, managed by Stamford man James Sheehan, won the Division Two title last season. Ryhall have managed to keep stars such as top scorer Ricky Pozella, and player of the year, keeper John Feetham. Keeping these two players fit will determine the success Ryhall can expect this season.

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Feature /// Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out

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First Tim, then Andy – is your child the one to take British tennis to the next step and actually win Wimbledon? Oakham Tennis Club is offering coaching courses for various ages through the summer holidays There are two courses in August: Monday 8 to Friday 12 and Monday 15 to Friday 19. Each day is split by age. 9:30 - 11:00am is for Mini Reds (under eights): practising different types of shots, focusing on co-ordination and having lots of fun. 11:00 - 12:30am Mini Oranges/Greens (under 10s): helping players to learn all the different shots and to provide fun competition. 11:00 - 12:30 Full Tennis (ages 11+): to further develop technique, skills and to learn competition scoring and tactics. Cost is £37.50 for a five-day camp or £9 per day. // For details, contact head coach Dan Potter on 07834470940 or email djpotter2@hotmail.com

Stamford Cluster, in association with Sports Xtra, are offering a wonderful opportunity for children to try a multitude of different sports including fencing, futsal, handball, dodgeball, rock-it-ball, parachute games and much more. The camp is being held from August 20 to August 22 from 9.30am – 4pm for five to 11 year-olds, at The Bluecoat School. The cost is £45 for all three days. // To book please contact Sara on 07703 030711 or e-mail sara.strid-coughlan@ sports-xtra.com

Held in The South Gardens every day during the Olympic Games, Burghley House will be showing coverage of the events on a big screen, with films some evenings. They are: Saturday, July 28, 7pm – Chariots of Fire (PG). Wednesday, August 1, 7pm – Pride and Prejudice (U). Thursday, August 2, 7pm – The Full Monty (15). Friday, August 3, 7pm – Mamma Mia! (PG) // Go to www.burghley.co.uk for details

Uppingham Community College is offering week-long activity programmes for boys and girls of all abilities aged between five and 11. The organisers say it’s a chance for children to gain experience of a variety of sports in a safe environment with supervision by coaches. Days include a mix of activities with team games, mini tournaments and skills coaching. Sports on offer include tennis, football, kwik cricket, mini hockey, rounders and tag rugby. From 10am - 3pm Monday to Friday, the courses are on through almost all of August. Cost is £45 for all five days or £10 per day. // For more information, call 01572 823631/ 07902 243405 or email: Lewin_R@ucc. rutland.sch.uk

Sports Xtra is running a range of activities available including futsal (the only Football Association accredited small game of football) dance, spy and detective experiences. Monday July 30 – Friday August 30, times: 9.30am–4pm for five to 11 years Based at Casterton Business & Enterprise College, Ryhall Road. // Contact Sara on 07703 030711 or e-mail: sara.strid-coughlan@sports-xtra.com CORBIS FLIRT / ALAMY

If you’re tired of the kids fighting, perhaps the best plan is to get them fighting – but in an environment where they’re supposed to, and it’s all done rather more constructively. Matthew Parkes, of Stamford & Bourne Martial Arts, says: ‘We do a Little Ninjas class for four-six year olds, which is a fun program for the young students, with the main focus on building confidence and concentration. ‘For juniors of seven-nine years, this class becomes more physical and challenging. Students enjoy the varied karate classes, which also keeps their interest. Kids of 10 years old and over start in our adult program, which is taught in a friendly atmosphere, in which everyone works as a team, helping each other to achieve their goals. // www.stamfordandbournemartialarts.co.uk

Rutland Watersports provides a wide variety of activities to keep youngsters occupied. These include certificated courses, with special activities being held during school holidays. There are lots of different courses available including Royal Yachting Association (RYA) junior stage one, two, three and four sailing, spinnaker sailing, seamanship, advanced boat handling and start racing, as well as RYA junior level one, two, three and four windsurfing, RYA junior level one and two power-boating, and BCU Paddle-sport Start, Paddle-power Passport, Paddle-power Discovery. // For more information, call 01780 460154

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Feature /// School’s out

Stamford Leisure Centre is running a range of swim-based activities ranging from leisure swimming with waves, water slide and water features through structured intensive courses including stroke improvement, to taster sessions for water polo and snorkelling. Intensive swimming courses: Monday, August 6 – Friday, August 10 Monday, August 13 – Friday, August 17 9am – 11am for all ages and abilities £15 per week (30 minute lesson) Leisure swim with waves, slides and water features: Available throughout the summer. 11am – 4pm for all ages and abilities £2.95 each or family (2 adults, 2 children) for £10.80

One Touch Football Soccer School is running numerous activities for boys and girls between the ages of four and 12 in the Stamford and Uppingahm area over August. Head coach Glenn Vaughan is a Peterborough United Football Club coach and scout within their football academy. He will be coaching football development and fun days, with a chance for promising players to be invited in for a trial. // For more details visit www. onetouchfootball.co.uk

Run by Stamford Neighbourhood Policing Team for 13 to 17 year-olds wanting to practice their sharp-shooting skills. The cost is £5, which includes 100 paintballs and needs to be paid in advance. Additional paintballs can be bought for £5 per 100 on the day. Date: Monday 13th August Times: 11.30am – 4.30pm (pick-up and drop-off times from Queen Eleanor School, Stamford) // Booking: please contact a member of the Stamford NPT on stamford.npt@lincs.pnn. police.uk or call one of the following numbers to book a place: 07944 776919 or 07939 997387.

Wondering where to send the kids in the evening? The organisers of the Teenzone Café, in the basement of Christ Church, Green Lane, Stamford, say: “It’s a safe place for young people to belong; we offer a full menu, entertainment, pool, table tennis, games, computers, chill out areas, movies, music and activities in the garden.” // Cafe open on August 6, 13 and 20 from 5pm – 7pm for 9 to 14 years. Cost is 50p for non-members/free for members

CORBIS CUSP / ALAMY

Water Polo and Snorkeling taster sessions: Monday August 13 – Friday August 17 Monday August 20 – Friday August 24 4pm – 5pm for 8 to 14 years £2.50 per session or £12.50 per week / 30 session // No booking is necessary for leisure swimming, but for all other activities (and more information on events taking place) please call 01780 765522

Ever wanted to explore a crime scene and try your hand at being a detective? Have a go at fingerprinting, tracking suspects, reconstructing stolen goods, mystery solving and much more, at the Detective Xperience. Taking place on August 2 and 3 at Casterton Business & Enterprise College kids will need to bring a packed lunch, plenty of water to drink, trainers, suitable clothing and applied sun screen. Activities may take place outdoors, weather permitted. // To book call Sara on 0770 3030711 or email sara.strid-coughlan@sports-xtra.com

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SCOTT HORTOP IMAGES / ALAMY BART PRO / ALAMY

Teenzone Activity Days are action packed and full of activities and entertainment including creative workshops, arts and cra s, games, sports, team building, cooking and much more. Cost is £2 per person per day or £5 for a family of three, including lunch, and is open on August 6, 13 and 20 from 10am – 2pm for nine to 14 year-olds. // For information ring 01780 761930 or email: teenzone@christchurchstamford.com

Teenzone will be working with One Touch Football’s professional sports coaches to deliver high quality multi-sports camps on Wednesdays throughout the summer. The cost is £2 per person per day or £5 for a family of three, which includes lunch. // To book call 01780 761930 or email: teenzone@christchurchstamford.com

At the weekends, Rutland Watersports offers windsurfing, sailing, power-boating and canoeing for children between seven and 15 years old. Courses are subject to availability and cost from £26. // Call 01780 460154 for information

Junior anglers are always welcome at Rutland Water fisheries and permits are half-price. If accompanied by an adult, they can fish for free within the rules and limits shown on the adult permit. Juniors between 10 and 12 years can fish from a boat with an adult - if they have proof of being able to swim 25 metres. // Contact Rutland Watersports Centre, off Bull Brigg Lane, Whitwell, for more information, or call 01780 460154

Stamford Children’s Centre has activities for parents and their children each week of the holidays, all with a different theme: bugs, Olympics, seaside, little gardeners, let’s explore and mark making. // For more information contact Stamford Children’s Centre on 01780 7640

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Feature /// Fly fishing

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The Rutland area hosts some of the finest fly fishing lakes in Europe. International angler Mike Gunnell explains how to get started Photography: Nico Morgan

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Feature /// Fly fishing

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;LUCKILY, WE JUST HAPPEN TO BE RIGHT AT THE HEART OF SOME OF THE VERY BEST DAY TICKET FLY FISHING IN THE WHOLE OF EUROPEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

or those looking to break into a new sporting activity thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenging, rewarding, a test of skill which is not exhausting but is based in the open air DPLGVW JORULRXV VFHQHU\ Â˛ WKHQ Ă \ Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ IRU WURXW PLJKW MXVW Ă&#x20AC; W WKH ELOO And, luckily, within Rutland, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire ZH MXVW KDSSHQ WR EH ULJKW DW WKH KHDUW RI VRPH RI WKH YHU\ EHVW GD\ WLFNHW Ă \ Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ LQ WKH ZKROH RI (XURSH The Anglian Water Authority catchment includes huge reservoirs such as Rutland Water and Grafham Water, XQGHQLDEO\ WZR RI (XURSHÂˇV YHU\ Ă&#x20AC; QHVW DORQJ ZLWK 3LWVIRUG and Ravensthorpe reservoirs in Northamptonshire, while WKHUH LV DOVR (\HEURRN 5HVHUYRLU LQ /HLFHVWHUVKLUH DQG D QXPEHU RI PXFK VPDOOHU VWLOOZDWHUV Â˛ DOO RI ZKLFK RIIHU Ă&#x20AC; UVW UDWH Ă \ Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ IRU WURXW DW UHDVRQDEOH SULFHV , WRRN XS Ă \ Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ VRPH \HDUV DJR DQG QRZ ZKHQ WLPH SHUPLWV SDUWLFLSDWH LQ Ă \ Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ FRPSHWLWLRQV XVXDOO\ from boats and typically in teams of four or six, and have UHSUHVHQWHG (QJODQG RQ WKUHH RFFDVLRQV 7R JHW WR WKDW VRUW of level takes time, effort and dedication, but newcomers FDQ Ă&#x20AC; QG Ă \ Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ UHZDUGLQJ ULJKW IURP WKH ZRUG ÂśJRÂˇ $ JRRG VWDUWLQJ SODFH LV WR ERRN D OHVVRQ ZLWK D TXDOLĂ&#x20AC; HG instructor and all of the reservoirs mentioned above offer WXLWLRQ 'HWDLOV FDQ XVXDOO\ EH IRXQG RQ WKH Ă&#x20AC; VKHULHVÂˇ websites and, for a little investment in time and money, the UXGLPHQWV RI WKH VSRUW FDQ EH OHDUQHG UHODWLYHO\ TXLFNO\ 7KLV LV GHĂ&#x20AC; QLWHO\ PRQH\ ZHOO VSHQW EHFDXVH XQWLO \RX FDQ FDVW D Ă \ OLQH \RX FDQQRW Ă&#x20AC; VK HIIHFWLYHO\ , UHPHPEHU ZKHQ , Ă&#x20AC; UVW VWDUWHG Ă \ Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ DOO WKRVH \HDUV DJR WKDW FDVWLQJ

About the author

Mike Gunnell is a journalist and public relations consultant. He took up fly fishing 25 years ago and has competed at international level for England

UHDVRQDEOH GLVWDQFHV RI VD\ \DUGV ZDV WKH ELJJHVW challenge I faced, and I remember feeling very frustrated XQWLO , KDG PDVWHUHG WKH VNLOO VDWLVIDFWRULO\ $ GD\ÂˇV Ă \ Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ QHHG QRW EH H[SHQVLYH E\ WRGD\ÂˇV VWDQGDUGV DQG FDQ EH W\SLFDOO\ HQMR\HG IRU DURXQG Â&#x2026; D OLWWOH PRUH LI \RXÂˇUH ERDW Ă&#x20AC; VKLQJ DQG WKDW VXP XVXDOO\ HQWLWOHV \RX WR NHHS XS WR HLJKW WURXW Â˛ LI \RX FDQ FDWFK WKHP To do that, you need the right equipment but again you GRQÂˇW QHHG WR EUHDN WKH EDQN WR JHW DGHTXDWHO\ NLWWHG RXW While you can spend hundreds of pounds on a state-of-theDUW Ă \ URG \RX GRQÂˇW QHHG WR DQG WKHUH DUH VRPH SHUIHFWO\ DFFHSWDEOH VDPSOHV DURXQG IRU EHWZHHQ Â&#x2026; WR Â&#x2026; <RXÂˇOO DOVR QHHG D UHHO DQG D FRXSOH RI Ă \ OLQHV WR VWDUW ZLWK RQH D Ă RDWLQJ OLQH WKH RWKHU D PHGLXP VLQNHU $QG IRU PRVW RI \RXU HDUO\ GD\V WKDW VKRXOG FRYHU WKH PDMRULW\ RI VLWXDWLRQV \RX ZLOO HQFRXQWHU 7KH Ă \ OLQH LV DQ LPSRUWDQW SDUW RI WKH VHW XS DV LW SURYLGHV WKH ZHLJKW WKDW DOORZV \RX WR FDVW \RXU Ă \ WR \RXU TXDUU\ Fly lines come in certain weights and you should match the ZHLJKW RI WKH Ă \ OLQH WR WKH URG \RX DUH XVLQJ They also come in different tapers which affect how they FDVW *HQHUDOO\ D ZHLJKW IRUZDUG WDSHU :) LV D JRRG RQH for learning with; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also by far the most popular and is JRRG IRU KDQGOLQJ ZLQG\ FRQGLWLRQV ,WÂˇV DOVR VRXQG DGYLFH to buy the best line you can afford, the better quality makes D GLIIHUHQFH DQG D JRRG OLQH ZLOO ODVW PDQ\ VHDVRQV 7R DWWDFK WKH Ă \ OLQH WR \RXU Ă \ ZH XVH ZKDWÂˇV FDOOHG ÂśD OHDGHUÂˇ D SLHFH RI Ă&#x20AC; QH Q\ORQ RIWHQ WDSHUHG VWDUWLQJ WKLFN DW WKH EXWW HQG DQG WDSHULQJ GRZQ WR D Ă&#x20AC; QHU SRLQW 7KH WKLFNHU HQG RI WKH OHDGHU VKRXOG EH DWWDFKHG WR WKH HQG RI WKH Ă \ OLQH 7KH UHDVRQ IRU D WDSHUHG OHDGHU LV WKDW LW KHOSV WUDQVIHU

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Feature /// Fly fishing the power of the cast down the leader which helps the leader to ‘roll over’ and lay out straight on the water. However, many experienced anglers don’t bother with a tapered leader and use a length of level nylon. I say ‘nylon’ but these days leaders are usually constructed of high-tech fluorocarbon which is invisible in water and has a high density sink rate. One note of caution here – always wear sunglasses to protect your eyes when fly fishing. Firstly, a polarising pair will help you see into the water and reduce glare – a sure cause of headaches – but, more importantly, they will protect your eyes from any miscasts or misdirected flies – and getting a hook in your eye is not funny, believe me!

SOME USEFUL ADDRESSES // www.anglianwater.co.uk/leisure/fishing-news/ // www.rwff.org.uk/ // www.rutlandwaterflyfishers.co.uk // www.anglianwater.co.uk/leisure/what-to-do/fishing/learning/ // www.rutlandwaterflyfishing.co.uk/ // www.gwffa-grafham.co.uk/ // www.eyebrook.com/ // www.elinortf.co.uk/

CHOOSING FLIES YOU COULD WRITE a book on choosing the right artificial flies and how to tie them, and there are many on the market. For me, this is more than half the fun. There’s nothing quite like creating a fly of your own design, tying it on the end of your line and finding that it’s a real winner with the trout. Learn to tie flies if you can, but if you don’t have the time or the inclination, there are plenty of good suppliers of excellent artificial flies available. A quick Google search will help you identify them. Flies split roughly into two main categories: imitative and attractors. Imitative flies imitate some kind of natural fly or aquatic life that trout actually eat. Attractors appeal to the trout’s aggressive instincts and rely on o en gaudy colours to provoke a response. As you gain more experience in the sport, you will discover that there is a huge amount of information to be learnt

about artificial flies and the right ones to use, and one of the best ways of acquiring this knowledge is to join a fly-fishing club and share in the experiences of others. This really is a short cut to becoming a competent fly fisher; it’s one I took many years ago and would certainly recommend to anyone learning the sport. I’m a member of several clubs including Rutland Water Fly Fishers but there are many in the region that are available and which will provide you with access to the knowledge, camaraderie and fun that are so integral to the sport I love, that of fly fishing for trout.

COACHING CLINIC

Fly casting THERE ARE MANY good videos available via the internet through sites such as You Tube which will show you the rudiments of fly casting, and also a number of good books on the subject. As I’ve already said, tuition is also available at many of the fisheries mentioned in this article. Key to improving as a fly caster is practice and I can’t stress enough the need to practice your fly casting as a beginner or learner. Basically fly casting comprises two actions: the forward cast and the back cast. Both are equally important. Ideally, the rod should move no more than between the hours of 11 o’clock on the back cast and two o’clock on the forward cast (if you can imagine them on a clock face) and your wrist should act as the fulcrum. The first thing to learn is that fly casting is really just a simple repetitive flicking action: flick the rod back, then flick it forward, then flick it back, then flick it forward. The flick comes

mostly from your wrist, although you should also learn to move your forearm back and forward as well to help gain power and distance. As soon as you stop flicking, the line will fall to the ground and you are back to square one. But if your line is up in the air and moving back and forth, you can then lay it down in front of you on the water at any moment – and in the exact place you want it to land. To gain distance, you can employ what are known as single haul or double haul techniques. These are basically pulls downwards with your le hand (assuming you are right handed) as the fly line goes out in the air behind you, and again when it goes out in the air in front of you. Timing is all important and comes with experience and practice. As I have said, you cannot fly fish unless you can cast a fly line a reasonable distance – 20 yards will suffice. But really competent fly casters will be able to achieve twice that distance – and beyond.

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Feature /// Indoor bowls

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Roll out the green carpet Looking for a way to keep those competitive juices flowing, or fancy a day out with the family? Perhaps indoor bowls in Stamford might be the answer, says Alexa Cutteridge

hile spin-off activities from Olympic events such as cycling, swimming, sailing and rowing are fuelled by Government funding and media frenzy, other sports see it as an opportunity to challenge for local support. Stamford is blessed with one of the country’s finest indoor bowls facilities and is looking to bask in the reflected glory of our (hopefully) medal-winning Olympians by encouraging more enthusiasts to take up the game under its roof - free from the vagaries of the English climate. Already Stamford and District Indoor Bowls Club’s stadium, off Exeter Gardens on the south-east corner of Empingham Road playing fields, has 500 members who can take their outdoor summer game on to the state-of-the art six-rink carpet. But it’s keen to attract even more to the sport. Bowlers can participate for up to eight hours a day - seven days a week - in a variety of leagues and friendly matches courtesy of a group of volunteers who manage the centre, organise the competitions and stage a fund-raising events. Though predominantly for winter participation from September to April, from 2010 the club began hosting summer indoor bowls three mornings a week (Tuesday-Thursday) and a league on Monday evening. With increasing television coverage of the sport as it is played both professionally and by elite amateurs, Stamford IBC is hoping to give the game a further boost by calling on those who have completed their careers in football, rugby, cricket and hockey and are looking for a way to keep their competitive juices flowing.

Its league teams, competing in four daily day-time and evening sessions, are littered with players - men and women who cut their competitive teeth on the local pitches and courts during the 1970s and ‘80s and have now found their skills regenerated on the indoor green. The club has also built a strong reputation competitively and as well as winning no fewer than eight county titles earlier this year it also landed an English Bowling Federation national championship. ‘Playing indoor bowls is also a way for the family to enjoy the sport together,’ says spokesman Bob Warters. ‘It can be played from a very early age - as young as seven or eight. In fact, if you can lift a bowl you can bowl it. It’s also a sport that can be played by different generations and we’re anxious to share the enjoyment of the sport here.’ Complete with bar and restaurant, Stamford IBC is currently planning its 2012/13 recruitment drive in an effort to get more sporting men, women and children hooked on indoor bowls. In quality surroundings, experienced bowlers and coaches are on hand to pass on their knowledge and passion for a sport which may not have Olympic status but competes for Commonwealth Games medals and is recognised on TV with its own world championships.

FANCY A BOWL? If you’re keen to try indoor bowls, the club will provide all the equipment you will need. Come along to Stamford’s indoor bowls club on Saturday, September 22 (from 9.30am) for a taster session. Alternatively, follow-up Saturday morning free coaching sessions are provided from October (9.30am -noon). // For further information visit the club’s website: www.stamfordindooorbowls.co.uk

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Feature /// Great walks

Hambleton Peninsula The creation of Rutland Water in 1975 resulted in a haven for wildlife and some scenic walks around the shore of the reservoir. Michelin-starred food optional Words /// Photography: Will Hetherington

THE ROUTE

Rutland Water was created in 1975 and now provides Anglian Water customers with all their wet stuff. But beyond that it has also become a leisure centre offering all sorts of experiences to locals and visitors alike. From sailing and ďŹ shing to cycling and bird watching, there is a vast array of activities on offer, and one of the best ways to get your bearings is to take in a stroll around the Hambleton Peninsula at the very heart of the reservoir. When you arrive in Hambeleton village either park at the Finches Arms if you are going to be enjoying a drink or a meal there before, or preferably, after, or on the road in the village. Look for the footpath sign in a gateway on the

left hand side about 100 yards after the pub and head off. This will take you on the very well signposted clockwise route around the peninsula, so the water will always be on your left hand side. There are plenty of gates and cattle grids on the way round, as there are a lot of sheep. When you get halfway round at the tip of the peninsula you can either take the shorter, easier route back down to Hambleton or stay on the waterside track which is a lot more interesting, not least because it offers close-up views of the stunning Jacobean Old Hall, built in 1611. This is the only remaining building from the village of Middle Hambleton, which was submerged on the creation of Rutland Water, and it serves as a poignant reminder of what lies beneath. Just after the Old Hall you will come to a

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Le and below

Quintessentially English scenes are in abundance on this walk. It pays to stop once in a while to take in the splendid views across the water

TOP STAT

was created in Rutland Water mming of the da the by 75 19 Empingham at y lle Va h as Gw gest surface and has the lar ervoir in area of any res r Water, England. Kielde greater however, has a capacity.

junction with a clear signpost to the steep hill back to the village. This is the only strenuous part of the walk but when you get to the top you can go to the pub, having expended just enough energy to reward yourself with a pint.

THE POOCH PERSPECTIVE

Unfortunately there are a lot of sheep on this walk and consequently you may have to keep the dog on the lead a lot. But if your mutt overheats at least you are never far from a cooling dip in the water.

Difficulty rating (out of five)

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Where to park At the Finches Arms if you are going to have a drink or a bite to eat there. Otherwise you can park on the road in the village. Distance and time: Four and a half miles/an hour and a half. Highlights The views of Barnsdale, Whitwell and Edith Weston on the distant shores. The beautiful Jacobean Old Hall on the south side of the peninsula. And the pretty houses, great and small, in Hambleton village.

Lowlights You won’t feel much like an adventurer or even a rambler as this walk is part of the Rutland Water Cycle route so it’s a wide path all the way round. Refreshments The Finches Arms is a lovely country pub which has been extended in recent years but hasn’t lost its charm or reputation for good food. Former hunting lodge Hambleton Hall is one of the finest hotels in the area and boats a Michelin-starred restaurant

under chef Aaron Patterson. Owner Tim Hart is passionate about providing the best so if you’re a er a treat then this is the place. You’ll need to book and take a change of clothes though... walking shoes and kagouls just won’t cut the mustard!

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Feature /// Cars

Less can be more with entry-level Evoque

FRONT-WHEEL DRIVE, rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive - let’s face it, when a car looks as good as the Range Rover Evoque, nobody really cares to which wheels the power is transmitted. But for those with a greenish bent, 2012’s car of the moment is now offered in front-wheel drive guise, allied to a lower powered diesel

engine which brings useful savings on fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Badged eD4, the 2.2-litre diesel musters 150bhp and returns 57.6mpg and emits 129g/km of CO2 (the similarly-powered 4x4 model offers 49.6mpg and 149g/km). But does the entry-level Evoque feel like a cheaper relation? No, is the simple answer. It still looks

fabulously right, a concept car which has gone from motor show stand to showroom without having the wow factor diluted, while the interior is a lovely mix of leather and metal trim and some calming mood lighting. On the road the Evoque has a lightness of feel which you don’t associate with SUVs – its squat stance and wheel at each corner layout promoting ﬂat cornering and there’s little in the way of body roll during direction changes. The diesel engine is ﬁne, nothing more, nothing less, and 150bhp is probably the limit when it comes to shifting a 1.6-tonne car like this around. Thankfully there’s a lovely short gearchange action to liven up the driving experience. But none of this matters a jot, because an Evoque is not a car to enjoy driving in, it’s a car to savour being seen in. Range Rover bosses maintain that the full-fat four-wheel drive models will take the lion’s share of Evoque sales, and that will be true, especially since the price differential between front and all-wheel drive versions of the Evoque is less than £1,000. Julian Kirk

VERDICT Lower emissions, lower fuel consumption and fabulous looks will ensure the two-wheel drive Evoque is a winner. If only it was a little cheaper. Model tested Range Rover Evoque eD4 Pure Price £28,695 Power 150bhp Fuel economy 56.5mpg

The ultimate sports saloon THERE ARE FLASHIER CARS, more expensive cars, more efficient ones too, but for a breadth of ability that is almost mind-boggling the BMW M5 has no peer. Here’s why. The M5 manages late-20s mpg and is as comfortable as well-upholstered limousine. The ride quality for a car on 20-inch wheels and 560bhp performance is incomprehensible. It fairly floats along. Quality of the very highest order is everywhere: the thick, buttery leather on the seats is better than you get in an Aston Martin, the brilliantly informative head-up display clearer than an F-15 fighter jet (I imagine). The M5 is a big soft, fluffy pussy cat. And then, when the mood takes, you can adjust the steering, suspension, gearchange speed, throttle response and stability programmes and feel the car tense, arch its back, ready for a fight. Effectively, what was a nice cruising machine turned into a racing car. The high-revving 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, howls to the red line, booms on the shotgun gear changes, turns into corners like a go kart, flings you out the other side with vicious acceleration. It is stupendously, ridiculously, gloriously fast – still riding beautifully mind – hunting out traction, blasting you forward with incessant force. And all the time, it’s still a big comfortable four-door saloon. Complaints? Well, for those who really care about their driving, the traction control can be a bit too invasive, and you switch it off at your peril, while if you were really being sensible, you could say that a big twin-turbo diesel would make better real-world proposition. But that would miss the point. This is a magnificent piece of engineering, a tour de force of adaptability and performance. More characterful than a Porsche 911, as practical as a Ford Mondeo. Steve Moody

VERDICT Astonishing all round ability makes the M5 a must on the lottery win shopping list. Amazing ride and handling, glorious engine, stunning performance Model tested BMW M5 Price £73,065 Power 560bhp Fuel economy 28.5mpg

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Feature /// Beauty and wellness

Yoga: relax, unwind and get healthier in the Treating yourself to a regular ‘de-stressing session’ works wonders for your mind and body, says yoga instructor Fiona Hurlingham IF YOUR KIDS are driving you mad this summer why not find a small corner and do a little yoga? There are many suggestions online – search for YouTube videos or websites for ‘Stress Busters’ and settle down to some breathing or simple postures to give you a calmer mind and more positive approach to your darling little cherubs. Continual stress can lead to serious illness and chronic disease, and there is growing evidence to show that regular ‘de-stressing’ enables the body’s natural systems to harmonise and work more effectively. Attending a regular class with an experienced teacher will help you to get the best out of the posture and breathing exercises. They will advise you on any modifications you may need to suit your body or level of fitness at this time. Many classes look at stress: how and why the symptoms occur and what happens to our bodies if we don’t unwind and let go. These classes will teach the students postures, breathing and relaxation exercises to help return the body to calmness.

WHAT HAPPENS IN A YOGA CLASS?

A typical yoga class will be split into 3 sections – focus and warm up, posture practice and ﬁnally

breathing work and relaxation. The focus and warm-up helps you to concentrate your mind and warm the joints and muscles in preparation for the posture work – like warrior or tree pose which I’m sure you’ll have heard of. The postures are taught for specific benefits – you may be working with the warrior poses to build strength in your limbs or you may practice ‘salute to the sun’ which is a flow of postures one into another. Some poses twist the torso and spine to flush the internal organs with fresh blood and ease out tension in the spine. Some poses are balances which require 100% concentration – these can help to prevent falls. Some poses will rejuvenate and invigorate and others will settle the body ready for relaxation. It will depend on your teacher, the time of day and goals of the lesson. Finally the breathing and relaxation section of the class will assist you to bring your body and mind to stillness and clear away the stress. This allows the body to function as it was originally designed to. The relaxed class is then gently awakened with some deep breaths and stretches to ensure that you are ok to leave the class – back to complete awareness, not drowsy but alive with renewed energy and vigour.

WHERE TO GO This autumn, Do Yoga! will be running a four-week introductory course for people to try out some yoga basics in a fun way with a group of interested and like minded people. Why not give it a try? Manton Village Hall – Tuesdays, 7.15pm (October 2 – 23) Ryhall Village Hall – Wednesdays, 9am (October 3 – 24) This introductory course includes: Session 1 A brief history of yoga, precision and alignment, safety Session 2 Why was yoga established?, benefits, movements of the spine Session 3 Working with the breath, mechanics, why relaxation is important Session 4 The 8-fold Path, beginning your journey, suggested home practice Aimed at complete beginners, these classes move at a slow pace with plenty of information to help newcomers build confidence in what they are doing and why. Demonstrations of yoga poses are given and individual alignment checked to ensure the fundamentals are in place prior to students moving on to home practice or classes. Each session lasts 45 minutes and will be taught using a variety of demonstrations, talks, illustrations and books. The course costs £30 and includes a free mat. Booking in advance is essential so call Deborah King on 07973 508547 or email deb@do-yoga.co.uk

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22/07/2012 12:33

Feature /// Sportsman’s Dinner

The Lord Nelson, Gastronomes and local sporting icons JT and Dean head to Oakham to try out its latest pub/restaurant Dean - It’s been a while since I was over in Oakham for food or beer, but with the recent Oakham Cricket 6s event happening, it was the perfect excuse to check out the recently-opened Lord Nelson pub in the Market Place. JT - Recently opened? It’s been open over six months, you wally. Just because you refuse to leave Stamford doesn’t mean that there’s not loads of new stuff happening around Rutland. Dean - Well I was immediately impressed. It’s got massive tables in the main room which creates a great atmosphere. It’s called the Lord Nelson room, with pictures of the great man all around, and it’s ideal for local sports team to get together (in fact Oakham Cricket Club are sponsored by the Lord Nelson). Upstairs there’s some cracking ‘cosy’ rooms, all well decorated and nice for a bit more privacy. I like pubs that have a ‘non-music’ policy, there’s nothing worse than trying to have a natter and hearing Carly Rae Jepsen warbling over your conversation. JT - It’s been fantastically restored and oozes class, with the feel of a boutique hotel, but really is a traditional, relaxed, cosy pub. First impressions count, and the welcome from well-known local barman, Jak Garner, was fantastic. You can tell that the staff believe in the place. To me, the people who work in a bar make the place. Similarly, throughout the whole night, the attention, and friendliness of waitresses Nadine and Danielle was ﬁrst class. Dean - I agree. Do you think one of them will fancy joining me for a drink?

JT - No Dean. They’re friendly, but they’re not stupid. Dean - Anyway we started off with a drink. They’ve got ﬁve different real ales, as well as some high quality premium lager, jugs of Pimms, and good deals on local sparkling wine. I went for the Harvest Pale Ale which is one of the smoothest pints you’ll ﬁnd. JT - Pity it’s not a Wednesday otherwise we could have taken advantage of the £10 jugs! Dean - Looking out of the window and seeing Oakham School reminded me of being a young Stamford Schoolboy, and trekking over here with the hope of winning the heart of an Oakham girl! Having a liaison with a chequered skirted Oakham girl meant you were talk of the Stamford schoolyard for weeks. Sitting here brings back painful memories of never achieving such status. JT - I was really impressed with the menu. I came thinking that they only did pizzas, but there’s so much choice. I’m still going to have a pizza though.

Dean - I’ll bet you did. This is the ideal plate for a growing lad. Lamb and pork chops, rump steak, gammon, Lincolnshire sausage, mushrooms, onions, vine tomatoes and some delicious sautéed potatoes. I left the watercress though – felt a bit full! The great thing about this dish though is that as well as the quantity, there’s supreme quality as well. All proper local meat.. JT - What I love about the pizza is they’re genuinely much better than pizza restaurant chains, and I get to have a pint of real ale as well, rather than ﬁzzy Italian lager for £7 a bottle! You get to choose your toppings, too. Mine had mixed peppers, sundried tomatoes, mushrooms, chorizo and black pudding, and there’s not many places where you can get one like that off a menu. Dean - That’s because the Italians aren’t renowned for their love of black pudding Jon, but fair enough if it worked for you…

Dean- We’ll share a mixed starter: the bell peppers with feta cheese and mini Swedish salamis are a superb accompaniment to a nice beer. You enjoyed those grilled mushrooms Jon, as you’ve didn’t leave me many (again).

JT - Overall, the Lord Nelson is just what Oakham needs. It’s got class, good quality, friendly staff, superb food, a relaxed atmosphere and is of a high enough standing to satisfy any Rutlander. It’s relaxed enough to go for a bite to eat or a pint after a game of squash, but also is ideal to go for a nice meal with the other half. It’s not cheap, but good value for the quality and surroundings on offer. Highly recommended.

JT - Have to say, the pizza was good, but I had got a bit of food envy for your Nelson’s Butchers’ Board.

11 Market Place, Oakham, 01572 868340 www.thelordnelsonoakham.com

The Lord Nelson

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Feature /// Win or lose

The Grainstore Brewery Tap

A GUIDE TO THE BEST BEERS

If you’re heading past Oakham either by train or in the car, the Tap is an easy stop-off and offers something for everyone, says Steve Moody

’m not the most orderly of people and, on the odd occasion, might have been accused of not being able to organise a p***-up in a brewery. Well, now I have the perfect answer to that accusation – I’d just take them along to the Grainstore Brewery Tap in Oakham, this supplying both elements necessary for putting on such an event. The Brewery Tap is everything you could want out of a brew pub. It has lots of beer for a start, unsurprisingly, but it’s not just a poky little corner in the building for a tour party to try out the beer – it’s a proper bar with a great atmosphere, lots of space and plenty going on. I have to admit I didn’t really know it was like that, so walking through the double doors into a long room, with an equally long bar, nicely decorated with a fairly rough and ready feel, was a very pleasant surprise. Importantly, the Brewery Tap has 10 pulled real ales, all from the brewery above, and all are in excellent condition. I can’t get too beardy on the subject, not having the requisite knowledge, but I know what I like and a couple stood out: Rutland Panther looks like the sort of thing dozing old ladies drink by the ﬁreside, deep and black, but its dark mild classiﬁcation belies a lighter taste. At the

moment, the fashion is for beer the golden straw colour of a Timotei girl’s hair, but give this gruff looking old fella a chance – it’s a cracker. On the lighter side, this year’s Osprey is excellent, and very fruity, while India Pale Ale, brewed on site for Phipps, is an easy pint while the Rutland Bitter is a stock favourite that will go well all evening too. But the great thing about The Grainstore is it caters for everyone. The fridge section is longer than the one in Morrisons, and contains all sorts of weird and wonderful stuff, while there are around four or ﬁve quality lagers on tap, too. This theme of being a pub for all the people is carried on in the snackery too. You can tell a pub’s aspirations and the type of clientele it wants by its snacks, and The Brewery Tap offers your middle-class wasabi nut, Grasmere Grunta and hand-cooked crisps in a sea salt and cyder vinegar type fare, as well classics from the working-class end of the spectrum: the iconic Scampi Frie, Pickled Onion Monster Munch, and monkey nuts on the bar, too. I didn’t spot pickled eggs, but I’m sure they were lurking around somewhere. All in all, a snacker’s delight. Then there’s the pub’s location: it’s tucked right behind Oakham railway

station, which makes it a perfect stop off for an hour on the way back from rugby in Leicester if you’re heading for Stamford, plus there’s loads of parking, so if you’re coming back from a game, it’s really easy to stop and have a beer, and you can even sit outside if it ever stops raining. It’s lively, too: there’s often live music and it hosts the Rutland Beer Festival over the August bank holiday (which I can assure you I am now going to stumble on and off the train for) as well as a sausage and cider festival in May. No surprise then, that the Brewery Tap has won Britain’s Best Brew Pub awards a couple of times. In a useful location, with great beer and friendly staff, it’s the ideal spot for those who like everything laid on for them, with no planning needed.

Rutland Panther 3.4% ABV A refreshing dark mild, whose chocolate and fruity flavours compliment its roasted long bitter finish. Primed using a mix of rich dark sugars, this beer is a taste sensation. Ten Fi y 5% ABV A full strength mahogany coloured beer, which has a moreishness typical of a beer possessing the fine balance of pronounced hop bitterness and aroma against a natural malty sweetness. Phipps IPA 4.2% ABV Brewed to an authentic 1930s recipe. A golden beer relying solely on the pale ale malt for its colour. Diamond Jubilee 5% ABV A fine balance of hoppy bitterness and malty sweetness...the perfect brew to mark the jubilee.

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NEXT MONTH Horse play It’s Burghley! Where to go, what to watch and what to buy at equestrianism’s biggest event Take the pill We preview the start of the rugby season, focusing on Stamford, Oakham and Uppingham clubs Freddie and the dreamers Coverage of the England cricket legends’ charity game against our local stars Contents subject to late change

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Feature /// School sports Up and coming BEN COLLINS CRICKET

Oakham track and field triumphs OAKHAM SCHOOL has celebrated one of its most successful ever years in athletics, with senior teams virtually unbeaten all summer. In inter-schools ﬁxtures senior teams have been virtually untouchable; apart from a second place for the boys behind Harrow in an eight-school meet at Eton, both boys and girls teams have remained unbeaten. At the County Championships at Saffron Lane in Leicester, the Oakham athletes picked up an astonishing 30 gold medals, 15 silver and nine bronze. The championships serve as a selection process for athletes to compete at the English Schools Athletics Championships; this year held at Gateshead. Five Oakham athletes gained selection: Andrew Bywater, Adam Mohan, Lucy Johnson, Daniel Sharman, Sam Clarke (pictured above). The starting point for this success has been in Jerwoods – Oakham’s year 6, 7 and 8. Jerwoods pupils compete in

five full athletics fixtures each summer, all hosted at Oakham as no other schools offer meets at this age group. Oakham School director of athletics, James Clarke, a former international triathlete, says that much of the success is down to having the strongest group of coaches who are able to provide expertise across all events. This year James recruited the services of Brendan Reilly and Old Oakhamian Robert Mohan. Reilly, originally from Corby, was the UK’s number one high jumper for the best part of 10 years and competed at the Barcelona and Sydney Olympics – his personal best of 2.32 metres would have won him gold at the European Championships earlier this month. Mohan, from Bourne, has just graduated from Loughborough University where he has fitted a sports science degree around being GB’s brightest up and coming shot putter.

Uppingham CC’s Ben Collins has been selected for England’s U19 World Cup squad. The offspinner, who is also part of Leicestershire CCC’s Academy, will travel with the 15-man squad to Australia next month for the event. England will play Australia on August 11 before playing Ireland and Nepal in the other group stage matches. The squad was selected by the England Development Programme selectors including David Graveney, Tim Boon, John Abrahams and Iain Brunnschweiler. Ben was named Rutland League Young Player of the Year and best bowler at the Bunbury Festival, both in 2009.

GRAHAM HAYWARD FLY FISHING Empingham teenager Graham Hayward has been selected for the England Youth Fly Fishing team. The Uppingham Community College pupil was among 10 young anglers to qualify from more than 35 at a match at Pitsford Water. Graham won the Rutland Water Junior Fly Fishers Awards for Best Brown Trout and Best Rainbow Trout in 2011, and began fly- fishing when he was eight.

Young Rutland sailors take on the world TALENTED YOUNG sailors from Rutland schools recently set off for the RS Feva World Championships, battling against nearly 400 of the best sailors from around the globe. A strong representation of 18 sailors of 16 years old and under and under from Rutland Sailing Club have gone to Hayling Island in Hampshire for the event, with the winners hoping to sail in the 2016 and 2020 Olympics.

The Rutland sailors, all pupils at Oakham and Stamford schools, trained throughout the winter, in all weathers, before competing at four selection events for their Team GB places. At the National Championships in June it was the Rutland squad that collected the trophy for the best region – for the second year in succession. Most of these sailors started in beginner courses on Rutland Water, either at

the Whitwell Watersports Centre or at the Rutland Sailing School by Edith Weston. Nick Neve, squad coach and teacher in charge of sailing at Oakham School said: “Sailing is gender neutral and it is one of those rare sports where young and old can compete together. Boys and girls from different year groups don’t often get to play other sports together. Here they do - and the girls sometimes beat the boys.”

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GOODSPORTHD.COM / ALAMY

Feature /// Update

Weight loss and the power of goal setting If you don’t have a goal, you’re not going to make it happen, says fitness and nutrition expert Mark Gordon. GOAL SETTING WORKS on various levels, with big goals that are often called ‘Visions’, things that need to be achieved to ensure that you move towards the Vision, which we call ‘Outcomes’ and the small things that you need to be doing now, which we call ‘Actions’. How does this all relate to weight loss? Well if you see yourself as an 18 stone person who ﬁnds exercise and hard work inconvenient, then you will see all around information that supports that. You are therefore unlikely to exercise. If you believe that you can’t lose weight and give in to temptation easily, guess what - you will give in. The ﬁrst goal you want to set is your Vision. What is it you want to achieve by the end of the programme? Be clear and precise. At this point some people set weight loss targets and that is okay, but actually it is not really that motivating. You need to consider why you want to lose weight. Ask yourself questions such as: // What impact will achieving the goal have? // What will be the results of achieving the goal? // What’s important to me about achieving the goal? // What will I gain from achieving the goal?

Each time you give an answer, ask the

question again in relation to that answer. For example you might say :‘Losing weight will make me look better’ When you ask the question again, i.e: ‘What’s important to me about looking better’, you might answer, ‘it will give me conﬁdence’. By doing this exercise you will become very clear about why you are setting on your journey. When things become challenging, as they surely will, remind yourself of your Vision and this will help inspire you to keep going. If you would like to start my free 12-week online ‘Weight Loss Challenge’ (starting on the September 3) then please email: mark@ ﬁtness2health.co.uk.

of the test can be found on the website www. ﬁtness2health.co.uk // Cardiovascular performance and aerobic tests (Bleep Test) // Strength and strength endurance (Push – up test) // Speed and Power (Sprint Test or Vertical Jump Test) // Anaerobic Capacity (Wingate test) // Agility (T-Test) // Anthropometry (BMI) // Flexibility (Sit and Reach Test) // Balance (Stalk Test) // Co-ordination (Wall Toss Test) // Reaction Time (Ruler Test) // Health Related (Blood Pressure)

GETTING FIT, PART 2

This is not an exhaustive list and there are many more assessments that you can try against these speciﬁc categories, which are not only fun but you can use for your individual training needs. Personally, if I’m working out in a ﬁtness centre and fancy a treadmill workout, I usually opt for the Treadmill ‘Bleep Test’ (which is a free app). Join me next month, when I will put together some relevant team sport assessments, which can also be individually adapted.

Testing Yourself against the Components of Fitness Now comes the though bit - you need to test your fitness levels July’s issue helped us understand the ‘components of fitness’. I will now uncover some simple ‘fitness assessments’ that you can perform against these areas. This will keep you motivated, help you progress and also define where your current fitness levels are. Fitness assessments can be broken down into a number of categories. I have outlined some basics assessments, which you can use as a starting point. Firstly decide what area is applicable to you (in some cases there maybe more than one) and then complete the assessment. The exact nature

MARK GORDON Mark@fitness2health.co.uk www.fitness2health.co.uk FACEBOOK: Mark FitnessTrainer MOB: 07525657596

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Feature /// Great runs

The Mad Horse Run Our resident runner Alexa Cutteridge on a hilly route that will really get you into shape. And there’s a bar at the end of it, too ///

Photography: Nico Morgan, Steve Moody

‘ARE YOU MAD?’ my friends often say when I get up early on a Saturday morning to embark with my friend Olivia on the ‘Mad Horse Run’ around Uppingham. Quite possibly. It is a mad run but great for ﬁtness training and you always feel great after completing it because it is tough with some serious gradients, but some amazing views, too.

THE ROUTE

Set off out of Uppingham on the Glaston road by the cricket pavilion and Roundary Farm and join the farm track leading towards Bisbrooke. The sweeping countryside greets you here with welcoming arms and you remember why you’re doing this! Enter Bisbrooke and run through the Inghams, turn right, then left, crossing the road on to Church Street. With the beautiful church on the left pick up a narrow bridleway for a good five minutes. Over a stile you go and run across, not up, the sloping grassy field – sheep warning here! At the end of the field aim for the gate at the top of a small hill (for the committed, go for a short sprint uphill to the gate). Turn left and join Uppingham’s disused railway track through woodlands leading to Seaton Road. Go over a gate and begin the first long hill towards Seaton (so far it’s been pretty much flat). This takes about 10 minutes at a steady pace but it’s worth it: at the top is the beautiful view of Harringworth viaduct. The added bonus is the gentle downhill to the village of Seaton to collect your breath. Turn right in to Seaton to join Main Street by the George and the Dragon pub. Run along Main Street and just before leaving the village, turn left on to Grange Lane. This is just over the halfway point. At the end of the downhill lane, go over a style by the

farm. Here the next ﬂat cross-country part of the run to Lyddington begins, taking around 15-20minutes, as it winds around ﬁelds. Tip: follow the yellow footpath signs and you cannot go wrong! Joining the Main Street of Lyddington, turn left (calling at The White Hart or the Marquess of Exeter for refreshments is optional!). Heading out of Lyddington, follow the main road but bear left for the last long uphill run towards Uppingham Community College (UCC). It’s a killer hill but you’re nearly there! Either do a paced uphill workout or take it easy and aim to complete it without stopping. At the top of the hill turn left by UCC on to Red Hill and embrace the wonders of downhill (using them as quality recovery time) as you sweep into Uppingham followed by two more cheeky, quick uphill stints. Before you know it the Market Square is in sight. Reward yourself with coffee and cake in Beans or a drink in Don Paddys! Enjoy and good luck… // For a map of the route log on to www.mapmyrun.com/ routes/view/110309427[L3]

STATS DISTANCE About seven miles TERRAIN Two longer uphills, two short uphills, crosscountry and road TIMES Fast pace: 60 minutes Steady pace: 70-80 minutes KEY LANDMARKS Uppingham Cricket Pavilion Bisbrooke St John Baptists Church Disused railway George and Dragon Pub, Seaton Grange Lane and Grange Farm Lyddington Uppingham Community College Uppingham Market Square DIFFICULTY 4/5

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PORTRAITS

Roundup The scores, star performers and stats from a month in Stamford and Rutland sport

// Golf Greetham Valley

The first day of the two-day Greetham Valley Men’s Club Championship got underway on the Lakes course in changeable weather conditions. The early starters had the worst of it as the intermittent conditions played havoc with the hard work of the ground staff by making the greens slower than intended. The persistent breeze finally pushed the rain away and the sun came out to dry things up a little after one o clock and suddenly, the greens were back to their normal speed. One of the early starters was two handicapper, multiple winner and men’s vice-captain Trevor Smith who shot a gross 75 to leave him in fifth place. This was five behind one handicapper Jordan Burdall who shot the lowest gross of the day with a 70. Ali McNaughton off 11 had a fantastic round to finish with a gross 75 (net 64) to lead the chase for the net championship. After the first day the top three in the gross competition were Jordan Burdall (70), Adam Clegg (72) and Chris Billows (74). The net was led by Ali McNaughton (64), Adam Clegg in second (67) with Chris Billows, Jordan Burdall and Steve Wilkinson (all 69) tied for third. The weather on day two was very different, with the sun out early with just a hint of a breeze giving the 44 competitors who made the cut a perfect golfing day. Chris Billows shot a 75 to finish third on the day and third overall. Nick Cunnington recovered from a shaky start on the Saturday to shoot 74 to give him second on the day but this combined with Saturday’s 77 wasn’t

How come my eagle on the fifth’s not here?! Are your club’s star performances not here? Then make sure next month you email Active with club reports and scores, and we’ll put them in. Email: steve@theactivemag.com

enough to get him into the placings. Adam Clegg shot a disappointing 76 to finish second overall. The really big score of the day went to a very determined Trevor Smith who knew he would have to play his very best golf if he was to win. He got off to a great start by birdieing the first three holes and parring the fourth. He had a slight slip on the fifth when he dropped a shot but soon got it back with a birdie on the sixth. After parring the next two holes Trevor was back on track but another dropped shot on the ninth gave him cause for concern. A slight wait on the par three 10th gave him chance to gather himself, he was still two under but knew that he would have to push himself, he has never been one to hope that other competitors fall by the way side and set himself the task of dropping no further shots on the back nine. Trevor parred the next four holes and birdied the sixth, two par›s on fifteenth and sixteen were followed by birdies on the final two holes to give him a fantastic score of sixty seven. Trevor was very happy with the way that he had stuck to his game plan. He was, however, a little gutted when he thought back to the putts that had lipped out on the 13th and 16th, just one of them would have meant that he would have broken the course record. Trevor shot 142 over the two days to win the President’s Trophy. Thanks to his determination to shoot a great score on the second day, Trevor also won the Cunningham Cup for the best net score. He took it on countback from Adam Clegg who took second place, a disappointed Ali McNaughton who shot a net 74 was third they all had 138 points. Chris Billows was fourth just a point behind on 139. Trevor said that winning the gross was brilliant but to win the net as well was a great bonus. His challenge for 2013 is to win in his captain’s year, something no other captain has managed to do. The Greetham Ladies also had two days of competition. The first day was the weekend July medal played on the Lakes course. Despite the changeable conditions 25 handicapper Sue Ker shot a gross 96 (net 71) to win the medal and earn herself a cut to 23. Sue said that it was very difficult conditions but that she was very pleased that she kept concentrating on her golf game instead of on the weather. Nine handicapper Heather

Morgan was second with a net 78 and took the lowest gross with 81. Kay Ropson came in with an 81 to take third. The Ladies were back on the Lakes course on the Sunday to compete for the Lady Landover Trophy, a is a stableford competition and, to everyone’s relief, was played in much better conditions. Vice-captain Sheila Douty had a great round to come in with 41 points to take the win. She said that she was disappointed with only coming fourth in the medal the previous day but she was pleased with her game, especially the birdie on the difficult par four 18th. She added that was great to win one of the most soughtafter trophies in the ladies calender. Sheila had her handicap cut to 16. Lesley Young was second with 39 points and was cut to 20. Sue Ker was third with 36 and was dropped another shot to take her to 22. She was pleased with her consistency and to get a three-shot drop over the two days. The ladies’ focus is now on the club championships – can anybody unseat Sophie Beardsall over the two rounds? The Ladies Bunny Cup for higher handicappers will also be played on the same day. The July mid-week medal was played on the Lakes course off white tees in unusually mild weather. Lincolnshire County Men’s second team and U18 team member Jordan Burdall, playing off two, had his best game of the year so far. He won the medal and took the lowest gross by some margin. Not bad for a young man who has to fight both pain and the course – Jordan has a slight curvature of the spine and has had to take some time off from golf recently to rest it. Jordan got his round off to a great start with a birdie on the first, followed by six pars and two more birdies. After dropping a shot on the 10th, thanks to a visit to one of the bunkers guarding this very demanding hole, normal service was resumed. Six more pars and two birdies on the par five 13th and 16th meant he came in with a fantastic winning score of 68 gross (net 66). This gave him the medal, the lowest gross and a cut in handicap to one. First team regular Dave Morgan off six took second place on countback from 15-handicapper Mark Bell after both players came in with a net score of 69. Cathy Steele is fairly new to the game but she was part of the winning team who won

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Roundup the Ladies Open and had a great game in the Ladies July stableford competition. Cathy had a fantastic score of 41 to take the win by ﬁve shots from Angela Wheeler. County player Emma Tipping was third. Jim Hetherington, who has been working as head teaching pro at Greetham Valley for N1 Golf, has now decided to leave N1 and join Greetham as club pro with immediate effect. Jim has been a PGA professional for almost 40 years and has specialised in coaching for the past 12. The July Medal is split into three divisions with almost 90 players taking part. Eleven handicapper Jon Herbert won division one on countback from the in-form Graham Smith, both men had a net score of 70. Third place was also decided on countback after three players scored a net 70. Two handicapper Trevor Smith took the place and also claimed the lowest gross with a brilliant 73. Adam Clegg and Dave Pusch were fourth and ﬁfth respectively. Mark Mousley won division two with a gross 86 (net 71), and also won the lowest gross prize. Club secretary Dennis Millington was second with a gross 89 (net 73). Former captain Bob Beverley took third with a gross 84 (net 74). The winner of the July medal, however, came from division three: 20 handicapper Robin Bell shot an 87 to win the medal, division and lowest gross. Another 20 handicapper Bill Skinner was second with a net 75 and Jeff Challis was third.

// Cricket Ufford

Ufford’s report on their game against Eaton Socon pretty much sums up July: “We went to Eaton Socon to watch ex-England bowler Alex Tudor’s brother and team mates mopping and sweeping the pitch while we sat in the dry in the clubhouse. “We’ve never seen such a torrent of energy in one place! “And then... guess what? It rained again and they gave up so we had to go and sit in the pub and talk about pressing cricketty stuff for ages. So we are still top of Hunts One and almost top of Rutland 2 on Sundays.”

Laxton

Laxton nearly conspired to throw away a much-needed win against Thrapston after the sterling work of groundsman Jimmy Ireland ensured that cricket defeated the Great British weather. With a forecast of cloud followed by late afternoon sun there was no surprise to see Laxton captain Will Kinnear opting to bowl ﬁrst, especially having seen the verdant wicket which lay protected under the covers. Thrapston opted for a bold strategy of choosing their batting order by lottery and it

looked to have backfired spectacularly as Laxton tore through Thrapston’s opening and middle order. Opening bowlers Adam Renton (3-32) and Robert Howe (7-27) were ably supported in the field with excellent catches snaffled by Will Kinnear and Jacob Howe in particular. At 26 for 9 Laxton’s players had one eye on the tea which was making its way to the pavilion and they were made to pay for their profligacy. Thrapston’s regular run scorer Paul Spicker showed his team mates how to play on a damp track as he played his way to 68 not out. Spicker was backed up by Chris Perry who, having survived a couple of scares on his way to 43, finally succumbed to a genuine edge to keeper Hales. Laxton went into tea shell-shocked as Thrapston set the Park 138 to win. Thrapston’s opening bowlers set out their task with vigour as they sought to replicate the line and length of Laxton’s opening pair. It was an approach which bore fruit as Laxton lost three cheap wickets to slump to 36 for 3 from 16 overs. Opening batsman Renton (23) got a good start but after he was caught off the bowling of Perry, and with Howe (21) and Hales (13) both soon following, Laxton were struggling at 70 for 6. Captain Will Kinnear came in at number eight after suffering an injury to his hand during Thrapston’s innings. It was time for a captain’s innings and he did not disappoint. Both Kinnear (36*) and Kevin Dobbs (25*) survived a couple of half chances before carrying their bats through with 10 overs to spare. This was a game which Laxton could ill afford to lose, but they almost did so in the most dramatic fashion. There were definite positives to be taken out of this performance though and looking forward to the second half of the season, Park will hope to build on them. That is, if the Great British Summer can be defeated.

Uppingham

Uppingham played Market Overton at the Castle Hill ground after some of the worst weather this summer with more than 20mm of rain falling on Friday. Marko won the toss and put Uppingham in to bat after a heavy shower in the morning had reduced the game to 25 overs a side. Opening the Uppingham innings, Jamie Dumford (18) and young Jamie Richardson (78) gave them an excellent start of 53 for the ﬁrst wicket. Mark Cox (84*) batting at number three then put on a partnership of 94 before Richardson, who batted with great maturity for his age, lost his wicket caught and bowled. Uppingham closed their innings on 207 for the loss of just three wickets in 25 overs to record their highest score this season in the

Rutland league. In reply Marko opened with S.Rose (26) and J. Weaber (6), Weaber the ﬁrst wicket to fall run out by Mark Cox with a brilliant direct hit on the wickets. Rose rode his luck dropped twice before Stu Lambie clean bowled him for 26 runs. Australian Bradley Apps top scored with 29 before Colan Bartram claimed his wicket caught and bowled, and Oliver Monks (21), the only other Marko bat to reach double ﬁgures, lost his wicket to Ben Collins (4 for 21). Marko lost their last six wickets for just 40 runs with Danny Dumford again claiming three wickets for just 21 as Marko were bowled out for 119 runs.

Uppingham Town

Uppingham Town won the Rutland Twenty20 Cup. It was always going to be Uppingham’s night at the Lime Kilns with the club’s first and second sides both reaching the Rutland Twenty20 Cup final, but it was the 1st XI who had the upper hand throughout a lowscoring match. The seconds batted first and struggled to score on the damp, slow wicket, making just 69 all out in a fraction under their alloted 20 overs. It was a total that the 1st XI rattled off with three overs to spare, but at the expense of five wickets of their own on a tough wicket for batsmen. Dave Fish opened the innings and top scored with just 13 as the bowlers dominated and the seconds lost five early wickets for just 34. Alex Ashwin claimed three for 14, and Danny Dumford two for a measly five runs, but all six bowlers were economical. In reply Uppingham 1sts fared little better as Chris Howe (4 for 9) ripped through the top order taking the first four wickets for just 30 runs, as well as an excellent catch to remove top scorer Max Collins (17) as the firsts slumped to 47 runs for five wickets. Danny Dumford (11) was the last wicket to fall, taken brilliantly by a flying Fish catch, claimed one-handed, diving to his right off the bowling of Will Armstrong. That brought Alex “Smasher” Ashwin to the crease and he quickly rounded off the innings and the match. First he cracked a big six back over bowler Armstrong. He took a big swipe and missed his next shot but then slammed another boundary to end proceedings. Uppingham skipper Jamie Dumford said: “It might look like a low-scoring game but the wicket was very bowler friendly. After all the rain, they did well to get the game on at all.” Given the dominance of the bowlers it was no surprise when Alex Ashwin and Chris Howe were named man of the match of each side. “It was a nice night for Uppingham,” added the skipper. Continues over >

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// Cricket < Continued

Ufﬁngton

Uffington beat Uppingham in an excellent Rutland Division 3 encounter. Visitors Uppingham batted first and were confronted by a near unplayable spell of fast bowling from Simon Larter, who was well supported by Ben Jennings at the other end. Larter bowled almost too well as the batsmen struggled to get the bat anywhere near the ball and, when they did, good fortune seemed to guide the nicks into the gaps. But the breakthrough soon came when Damien Herrick held on to a fizzing catch at first slip off Jennings to remove David Fish. Jack Salt then joined his father Adrian at the crease and the two saw off the opening bowlers with some fortune. But Salt junior soon departed to a good catch at midwicket by Will Hetherington off the naggingly accurate Felix Cunningham. Chris Howe played some big shots in his 21 before he was superbly caught behind by a delighted Jak Garner off Uffington skipper Steve Moody. After defiant opener Salt senior (34) fell to a fine catch by a swooping Moody, Uppingham were really struggling. But the lower middle order of Harry Butchart, Will Armstrong and George Scott came back fighting and, with some luck, added another 75 runs to take the total to a very competitive 175. In response Uffington lost both openers for ducks and the game was on. Herrick, playing with calm assurance, and Garner with some aggression steadied the ship and got the scoreboard moving. When Garner was out for an attractive 23, Larter joined Herrick in a calm partnership which looked like winning the match. But a controversial LBW decision sent Herrick back for a well-composed 46, with another 75 runs needed. Colin Miles (14) came to the crease and hit two sumptuous sixes and looked in great form until he fell to an excellent diving catch at backward point. With another 50 runs still wanted Hetherington (25*) joined Larter and, with a mixture of good fortune and sweet timing, helped take the village side to a well-earned victory with an over to spare. Larter finished on 60 not out and this, combined with his ferocious bowling earlier and fine fielding, made him an obvious man of the match. Uffington skipper Steve Moody snaffled eight wickets as the village side beat Whittlesey at home on Sunday in Rutland Division Three. Moody won the toss and put the visitors in to bat on a wet pitch. Opening bowlers Ben Jennings and Simon Larter bowled with pace and hostility and it was clear run

scoring was not going to be easy. Larter soon made the breakthrough, bowling David Drage for 10. When Moody came on to bowl Clive Evans failed to adjust to the different pace and steered a catch straight to Will Fairham in the gully. He was swiftly joined back in the pavilion by Sam Tyler and Justin Davies, who were well caught by John Burton and Guy Cunningham, off Moody. Dan Slater and Lloyd Papworth then dug in for 15 overs to ensure that Whittlesey would have something to bowl at. Slater saw out a particularly hostile spell from Larter to register a fine half-century. Larter was extracting more from the pitch than anyone, but luck was not on his side, as the ball repeatedly fell short or wide of fielders off the edge of the bat. But the reintroduction of Moody again induced some false strokes and Slater fell for 58 to an excellent catch by Dean Cornish at point. When keeper Jak Garner came to the party with a brilliant catch and stumping in quick succession, Moody had six wickets with the tail to bowl at. Some clean ball striking helped Whittlesey to add another 30 runs and register a total of 135-9, but not before Moody had taken his total to eight wickets with the help of a fine catch by Damien Herrick and a clean bowled. In response Uffington openers Will Fairham and John Burton both fell in quick succession to excellent catches behind the wicket. And when Guy Cunningham was bowled by a good delivery for 12, the pressure was on. But Cornish joined Herrick in a matchwinning 85-run partnership, built on watchful batting and judicious punishment of the bad ball. Herrick was brilliantly caught on the boundary for 50 but Cornish (32*) saw the game out with Garner to help the village side go third in the league.

turning up to practice. England Netball coach Sam Grifﬁn has taken over the sessions and the league hopes to be able to put a further two new teams in to the winter league in October.

// Fishing Eyebrook Trout Fishery

There have been plenty of big catches at Eyebrook Trout Fishery this month. Gordon Price, of Wigston Magna, boat-fished and took eight rainbows for 22-00 on black buzzers and diawl bach. Leicester’s John Punt also boat-fished and hooked eight rainbows for 23-08 on a gold head damsel. Season-ticket holder Stuart Hardy, of Leicester, boat-fished at Stoke Dry and took eight fine rainbows for 20-00 on dry flies. Jamie Weston (Exton) pulled in a superb 5-05 rainbow and Ceth Mauger (Leicester) managed five rainbows for 11-00.

ARE YOU THE NEXT STAR OF SPORTS JOURNALISM? If you’ve read our column by The Sunday Times sports writer Martin Johnson, you’ll know that the first step to a career being paid to watch top athletes perform in the biggest games in the world begins on your doorstep. So we’re on the look-out for contributors who want to get their first taste of sports journalism by writing for Active. If you’ve got something to say, have original ideas and a passion for writing about sport, we’d love to hear from you. It could be your first step… Email steve@theactivemag.com

// Netball Rutland County Netball League

Cavells continue to top the table in the Rutland County Netball League. Jewells are yet to win a game, but had a great match last week against current second place team, Catmose Cougars. After a slow first half, Jewells matched Cougars goal for goal, finishing at a loss of 43-20, but with spirits high. Ospreys and Mercury are in a fierce battle for third position, with just four points separating them and Mercury, with a game in hand. They had a close fought match this month with Ospreys clinching the win by just two goals. Back to netball sessions are going brilliantly, with more than 20 new players

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Get Involved /// Photography

Have you got some great photos from your club or sport? Or are you a budding photographer? Either way send in your photos to editor@theactivemag.com and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do our best to get them in Active! PhotograPhy: Nico Morgan

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Feature /// Stalwart

Algie Audas S TA M F O R D S T R I D E R S

‘WE’RE NOT ACTUALLY A RUNNING CLUB... WE’RE A DRINKING CLUB WITH A RUNNING PROBLEM’

Words /// Photography: Steve Moody TAMFORD STRIDERS have been one of the big sporting success stories of the local area of the past decade, and their coach Algie Audas has been pivotal in their growth. “The club will be going for 10 years next year, and I’ve been a UK Athletics running coach for last three years, and right from the inception this has been an adventure,” he says. “We formed the club after the demise of Stamford Harriers. It was time to start afresh and get the club up and running, literally. The results were due to the hard work of a lot of people. But after we started it up, we were fortunate that there was been a running boom, especially with women coming into the sport. “I remember when I started running 25 years ago, there were just a handful of women, whereas now we have 150 members and half of them are women. I think things like the Race for Life probably encouraged women to take up the sport – they tried it, liked it and then came along to us.” Algie believes that approachability and the ease with which you can take it up is vital to getting people into running. “A big thing for our club is that we do a beginners’ course every year. It lasts for 10 ZHHNV DQG LQ WKH À UVW ZHHN ZH JHW WKHP WR UXQ one mile and by the end of the tenth they will DOO EH GRLQJ À YH PLOHV ² LW VKRZV WKDW DQ\RQH can run. As a result of these courses, we often get 30 or 40 people joining the club. “Running is booming. I think that with the credit crunch a lot of people gave up gym memberships and just bought trainers to go running – it’s such an inexpensive sport.” Algie’s role at the club is to give advice and he says getting your running gait analysed is vital to get the right shoes, because the wrong shoes cause injuries. He has been running for more than 25 years, has completed 25 marathons, countless half marathons and ultra marathons of 70 miles, too. He reckons: “You’ve got to be slightly mad to do these things. But I’m 54 this year and you tend to go for longer distances and leave the faster stuff to younger people. “A lot of people get the idea of a running club is that everybody runs fast. It’s not true. We have runners of all abilities, but the key thing is nobody runs on their own. We pride ourselves on being a really friendly club. “We’re based at Blackstones and they have given us any help we need. As a result, we have lots of social events, so it’s not just about running. We’re not actually a running club... we’re a drinking club with a running problem.”

// Do you have a Stalwart worth celebrating? Email steve@theactivemag.com with details

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For a limited time, we’re offering up to 50% off Virgin Balloon Flights with prices from £99pp! Be quick, this fantastic offer ends on September 30th simply call 0844 8448070 or visit virginballoonflights.co.uk and quote ‘Active Magazine’ Terms & conditions Competition prize refers to a pair of 7 Day Anytime national vouchers which have no cash value, are non-refundable and non-transferable. Offer valid until September 30th 2012 – subject to availability. Price is for one person including VAT at the applicable rate and standard postage and packing. Voucher is valid for 12 months and flying season is March to October. Passengers must be aged 7 or over and at least 4’6” in height. Children aged under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers who are pregnant or who have recently undergone major surgery are unable to fly. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, are not transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash. Virgin Balloon Flights reserves the right to withdraw these offers or amend these conditions at any time. Customers must be UK residents and aged 18 or over. Nothing in these terms shall affect your statutory rights. Full terms and conditions at www.virginballoonflights.co.uk

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