Active Magazine // September 2012

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E E Touch, Pause, engage!

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We preview our local teams as the rugby season kicks off

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

2012

BURGHLEY SPECIAL ISSUE ISSUE 3 // SEPTEMBER 2012

BURGHLEY Horses, fences and piaffes everything you need to know

FasHion What to wear to the premier equestrian event

PEoPLE sPottinG Shoppers, drinkers and anoraks - know any of them?

PLUS: Exclusive Crista Cullen Run Alexa, Olympic Run! interview Start cyling Our runner tries again, Martin Johnson, Uppingham’s Mad running, walking, pubbing - and how Horse route to get your team fit!

Rutland Water ISSUE 3 SEPT Fly Fishing

2012

Don’t know a posh tosh from an orange blob? We’ll help! www.theACTIVEmag.com

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Featured Equestrian Property

Belmesthorpe, Rutland An elevated Grade II Listed Georgian farmhouse with far-reaching views towards Stamford and Burghley House, and excellent equestrian facilities with business potential.

4 reception rooms, 5/6 bedrooms, landscaped gardens, double garage, 14 stables, tack room, ménage, paddocks and exercise track.

In all approximately 14.23 acres (5.76 ha).

Guide Price £1,295,000 as a whole (Lot 1 Guide Price £985,000 - Lot 2 Guide Price £320,000)

We jump higher to sell your property.

Please call us to arrange a free market appraisal of your property or to register your search requirements.

Stamford office t 01780 484 696 stamford@smithsgore.co.uk

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smithsgore.co.uk

22/08/2012 15:48

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

LIKE QUITE A LOT OF PEOPLE WHO go to Burghley, I’m no Claire Balding. I rock up, mooch around the shops, have a nice lunch and a beer in a lovely setting, gaze at the odd horse passing by and think I’ve had a rather nice day.

But there’s been a development in the last year or two, and one which I foresee costing me squillions: my daughter loves horses. So me and my prospective Zara-in-waiting headed deep into the park last year, and my appreciation of cross country was transformed.

The speed, power and finesse of horse and riders is something to be appreciated close-up, and if you haven’t witnessed it, I urge you to go and have a look.

I can’t say I know much about dressage either, but like you no doubt I watched spellbound with a mixture of terror and tension as Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro tippy-hooved their way around the deathly silent Olympic arena to win gold.

So I might make it into the enclosure at Burghley this year to see how their flying changes and piaffes are getting on. But if you haven’t quite mastered the horsey arts, as I patently now how, we’ve a definitive guide to this year’s Burghley Horse Trials from competitor Julia Dungworth who explains all the intricacies and skills.

Burghley is also about being seen, and we’ve a fantastic shoot of equestrian fashion courtesy of brilliant Cambridge photographer Dottie Photography (they’re available for weddings, too if you think the pictures are as good as I do), and a lighthearted look at some of the characters that grace the hallowed turf from local artist Rowan Clifford, prints of which you will be able to buy in the coming months for your downstairs loo.

On top of that, we have an interview with our local medalwinning Olympians, advice on how to get on your bike, a review of Freddie Flintoff’s exploits in the Stamford charity cricket match and a preview of the upcoming rugby season.

It’s never quiet in Active country.

Thanks, Steve

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

Contributors Martin Johnson, William Hetherington, Dean Cornish, Jon Tyrell, Alexa Cutteridge, Fiona Hurlingham, Rich Beach, Jeremy Beswick, Mark Gordon Photographers Nico Morgan, Jonathan Clarke, Neil Paterson Production Assistant Abigail Sharpe Advertising Sales Rachel Meadows rachel@theactivemag.com Lisa Ward-Taylor lisa@theactivemag.com Juliette Chapple juliette@theactivemag.com Accounts Amy Roberts amy@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.

Distributed by Grassroots Publishing Ltd 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 DANIELS CLAIM CLUB FIRST

Club to carry Twitter address on shirts this season

Issue 3 /// September 2012

11

13 I PCA CRICKET MASTERS

All the news from Stamford’s cricket event of the year

15 I FAMILY FUN FROM LEICESTER TIGERS

Club to host family fun day at opening game of the season

HEADS UP 16-17 I KITBAG

All the essential gear you need

19 I MARTIN JOHNSON

The Sunday Times writer has advice for Kevin Pietersen

20-21 I OLYMPIC ROUND-UP

How our local stars fared at the London Games

22-33 I BURGHLEY SPECIAL

What it’s all about, where to spectate, what to wear and who to keep your eyes on at the Burghley Horse Trials

2012 LEY

BURGH SPECIA L ISSU E

36-37 I JUMP CROSS

Cross-country riding with a twist – the new sport aimed at building the confidence of young and novice riders

13 21

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51

FEATURES 38-41 I CROUCH, PAUSE... ENGAGE!

The rugby season is back upon us, so we take a look at three of the biggest local clubs and find out how to get involved

44-47 I GET ON YOUR BIKE

Inspired by the efforts of Hoy, Wiggins and Pendleton?

Follow our top tips to get yourself out on two wheels

51 I EATING OUT

Active’s resident gastronomes try out another local dining establishment... this time it’s The Blue Bell at Belmesthorpe

REGULARS 48-49 I A DOG’S LIFE

Will Hetherington and dog Ella take in a stunning, if taxing, route from Uppingham to Lyddington and back

53 I WIN OR LOSE…

Stamford’s The Jolly Brewer has more TV screens than you can shake a stick at, plus plenty of real ales on offer

55 I MOTORING

Catching up with the latest happenings on two, three and four wheels from around the region

ROUND UPS 57 I SCHOOL SPORTS

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

60-63 I FINAL SCORES

How clubs in the Stamford and Rutland area are getting on

66 I STALWART

Another long-serving club member gets some recognition

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22/08/2012 13:25

In Play

Crowds turn out for Freddie

TERRY HARRIS/URBANTOG.CO.UK

More than 3,000 people turned out to watch Freddie Flintoff and a host of cricket stars play in a charity match against a team of local players. The match was played at Stamford School and organised by the school’s cricket coach, ex-England player Dean Headley. For further details, see the match report on page 13.

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DAVE ASHWIN / ALAMY

In Play

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Local teams take off As autumn approaches, the rugby season begins in earnest, with local clubs competing at various levels of the Midlands leagues. For more details on Oakham, Stamford and Stamford College OBs, see page 38.

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22/08/2012 16:23

Leap into the season with our NEW COLLECTION for Women, Men and Children with... joules.com

15% OFF FREE P&P

Offer Code: ACMA15PP

To see the

NEW COLLECTION

visit the Joules stand at The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials

Shop at joules.com, call 0845 250 7159 or visit one of our shops

Terms and conditions: To take advantage of your 15% off and free p&p visit Joules.com and enter offer code ACMA15PP at the checkout, call our lovely team on 0845 250 7159 and quote offer code ACMA15PP at the beginning of the call or visit one of our Joules stores with your voucher and hand it over at the till to our helpful store staff, when shopping in store you will only receive 15% off. This offer may not be used in conjunction with any other Joules offer. Delivery services directly from our stores are not included. This offer cannot be used to buy Joules gift vouchers and is redeemable against full priced items only, Rampant Sporting are excluded. This offer is not valid in our outlets, stockists, Joules of Guernsey or at The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials 2012. There are no cash alternatives. This offer cannot be redeemed against any items that have already been purchased. This offer ends at 23.59pm on Sunday 7th October 2012. Joules reserves the right to change these terms and conditions at any time.

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News

Daniels are all of a Twitter with ground-breaking plan Stamford claim an English football first by displaying their Twitter address – @stamfordAFC1896 – on their shirt this season STAMFORD RECKON THEY WILL BE the first English club in history to display their Twitter address on their strip this season.

The Evo-Stik First Division South oufit say their new first-team shirts will be emblazoned with the club’s Twitter handle – @StamfordAFC1896 – making them the first English football team to adorn their strip a social network identity.

The home shirt will even feature a QR code, which will instantly link users to the club’s new official twitter feed.

New club chairman Chris Rivett said: “We believe we’re the first football club to display our club Twitter name and a QR code on the back of our kit, possibly even the first sports club in the world.

“As a club we are keen to embrace the digital age and the opportunities it brings.

“Our communications strategy is centred around interacting with supporters through a variety of media, and on their terms.

“As the relationship between technology and sport evolves I expect this will become a common practice; sports clubs, and perhaps more significantly players and brands, will look to interact with supporters in this manner.”

Shorts PLOD ROUND RUTLAND

The Paddington Plodders are fund-raising to reach £1,500 for The Plod - Rutland Round which starts on September 14. The Plod is a 40-mile trek starting on the shore of Rutland Water and will take 12-16 hours. The team (Sarah Patterson, Peter Hull, Katie Butlerm Sarah Grundy and Yvette Mayo) are fund-raising to improve the quality of life for thousands of sick children. Visit www.action.org. uk/plod_rutland_round

WALKING FOR ANNA

On September 6, walkers Andy York and Martin Harris will walk from Teddington along the Thames to its source in Worcestershire. The walk will cover around 150 miles in five days in aid of Anna’s Hope, a charity assisting children with brain tumours. Visit www. annas-hope. co.uk

EPILEPSY ACTION SWIM

The first ever Epilepsy Action Rutland Water Swim will take place on September 9 at 8.30am.

Swimmers will be able to choose a distance that suits their level of experience (500, 1,000 or 1,500 metres). It costs £36 to register. To sign up contact Joanna Burrows on 0116 243 0569 or visit www. epilepsy.org.uk/rutlandswim

A new take on training Full steam ahead for a team bonding sesson with a difference Fancy a team bonding session with a difference? The Nene Valley railway is offering a dining experience aboard the Duke of Gloucester steam locomotive for less than £30 a head.

A welcome drink followed choice of starter, main course and pudding complete with a ticket to ride costs £29.95.

Currently there are a some places le for the September 21 event. For more details contact Nene Valley Railway, Wansford Station, Stibbington, on 01780 784444 or visit www.nvr.org.uk

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                                                               

  



TERRY HARRIS/URBANTOG.CO.UK

News

Headley’s stars raise money for charity More than 3,000 people watched cricket stars led by Freddie Flintoff play in a charity match at Stamford

Above from le

England cricketer Shaun Udal, Active contributor Alexa Cutteridge and publisher Chris Meadows, and Freddie Flintoff with their copies of Active

The biggest star of the day was ‘Freddie’ Flintoff who smashed the ball to all parts as the England Masters triumphed, scoring 238 for seven. The local XI put in a good shi , falling only 30 short in their 20-over innings, with Active publisher Chris Meadows slogging his way to 42.

Children from local clubs were able to compete in a mini kwik cricket tournament in the morning, and they felt honoured to receive medals presented by their heroes.

Dean Headley said: “The sun shone all day, the wicket has been great, we saw some great entertainment and a lot of runs, and it’s for a good cause.”

Gladstone Small added: “It’s great to see the kids here. We have had a great time in our careers, but now its great to see the opportunity these kids have got.”

Sky commentator David Lloyd spent the day chatting with fans, but his contribution to the cricket was less successful. “It’s been a terrific day. I like the ground, the pitch was great but I got a duck and I can tell you now that I have officially retired!”

TERRY HARRIS/URBANTOG.CO.UK

TERRY HARRIS/URBANTOG.CO.UK

SOME OF THE BIGGEST names in cricket took part in a day that raised money for charity at Stamford School recently.

An invitation XI team put together

by Stamford School cricket master and ex-England player Dean Headley, and featuring Gladstone Small and Herschelle Gibbs, took on an England Masters XI which included Devon Malcolm, John Emburey and Phil DeFreitas, in a game watched by more than 3,000 spectators.

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News

New group in call for Stamford clubs to help improve local facilities Group made up of councillors, coaches, teachers and club representatives is looking for ‘wish list’ ideas as well as funding to help the take-up of sport in Stamford A GROUP LOOKING TO improve sports facilities in the area has called on clubs to join and help shape future developments.

The Association for Stamford Sport and Leisure (A4SSL), a group of councillors, coaches, teachers and club representatives wants to work with the public, private and voluntary sectors to find areas and sources of funding to improve facilities and increase participation and current venues.

Chairman John Hicks said: “Stamford’s sport and leisure needs at the heart of our thinking.

A4SSL is not at all exclusive and is open to all those who would like to see improvement in the sport/ exercise facilities in Stamford.

“We want to concentrate on inclusivity and not entirely on competitive sports, and we want to work with schools, colleges and organisations such as Lincolnshire Sports Partnership to enable the

ALAMY

Pork pie, cider, den building... sounds like a great day out!

A FAMILY EVENT on the banks of Rutland Water is planned for September 15 which will celebrate activities and food in the county.

Rutland Day and Rutland Food Festival is a collaboration between Anglian Water and Rutland County Council and will include music from Rutland Concert Band, the Houndogs and Big 10 Ska. There will also be food demonstrations, stalls and activites to keep the children amused such as pedal go-karts, volleyball, bouncy castle, table football, den building, badge making and a giant sandpit.

Rutland Food Festival will be a celebration of all the food and drink on offer in and around Rutland.

The event is taking place from on September 15 from 11am to 6pm at Rutland Water at the Sykes Lane, Empingham site.

facilities that exist to be more available to the community, especially on a ‘turn up and play’ basis as happens in many other towns the size of Stamford. We are not asking for a huge commitment from anyone, but send us your ideas or a ‘wish list’, and let us know what kind of facilities you would like to see in the town.”

To contact A4SSL, email John on johnhicks40@ hotmail.com

NEW THEATRE RESTAURANT Stamford chef and entrepreneur Thierry Daugeron is to open a 150-seat restaurant under the Corn Exchange for visitors to shows at the theatre.

Called Thierry Daugeron at the Theatre Lounge, it will be open on show nights from 5.30pm and feature classic dishes made with local ingredients.

The dining room will also be available for private functions, such as wedding receptions, and has the capacity to house 250 for cocktail evenings. Thierry says he will also have monthly private dining evenings that people can buy tickets for.

A pre-theatre two-course meal will cost £14.95 with three courses £19.50.

It will be opening for light dishes on the evening of Burghley Horse Trials on Thursday and Friday, August 30 and 31, from 6.30pm and for a special four-course dinner at £29.50 per head on Saturday, September 1 from 7.30 pm. (booking essential) Pre-theatre dinners will start on September 27.

For room hire enquiries and pre-theatre dinner booking call the box office on 01780766455. For all catering and private events call Thierry on 07773 800804.

WIN YOUR TEAM A FREE HEALTH CHECK To launch the new Active online Wellness Store, where you will be able to purchase sport nutrition packs and book fitness advisors, we are running a competition for members of your sports club or organisation to win a free Wellness Evaluation.

This will enable your club, including family and friends, a chance to get access to their own personal wellness coach, who will complete individual health assessments.

To enter the competition all you need to do is answer the following three Olympic questions: 1. What was Jessica Ennis winning points total in the Heptathlon?

2. What was Mo Farah’s winning 10,000 metre time?

3. What was Greg Rutherfords winning long jump distance?

Only one entry is allowed per sports club. Please email your entries to publisher Chris Meadows at chris@theactivemag.com

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Leicester Tigers to host family day on first home game of the season It will be fun for all the family at Tigers in the Park 2 event on September 8 LEICESTER TIGERS WILL BE HOSTING a family day at their first home game of the season.

Tigers In The Park 2, on September 8, will feature family activities and live music in Nelson Mandela Park, opposite Welford Road stadium, in the build-up to kick-off in the opening game of the season, against Worcester Warriors at 3pm.

Performing will be The Method, The Chizzits, Uncle Frank and By The Rivers, while the Junior Tigers Club Sport Park will feature free activities in sports from cycling to rugby and golf as well as inflatables and games.

The Tigers Arena will showcase a skillzone with the Tigers academy, a special performance by club mascot Welford and player appearances.

For more details, visit www.leicestertigers.com

TIGERS HOME FIXTURES SEPTEMBER

Saturday, September 8, 3pm Saturday, September 22, 5:30pm Saturday, September 29, 2:15pm

OCTOBER

Sunday, October 21, 3pm

NOVEMBER

Saturday, November 3, 2.15pn

DECEMBER

Saturday, December 1, 3pm Saturday, December 8, 3.40pm Saturday, December 29, 3pm

FEELING STRESSED? TRY HOLISTIC MEDICINE If you’re feeling run down, stressed, and tired, Zanny Vincent of Healing Grace says holistic treatments might work for you.

Designed to work alongside orthodox medicine Holistic Therapist offering a variety of treatments to help create deep relaxation and invigorate mind, body and soul. Treatments include Reiki, Hopi ear Candles, Thai hand and foot massage, Indian head massage, and Crystal healing .The Holistic approach deals with the body as a whole, treating not just the condition but the mind, body and spirit.

Zanny is a fully qualified and insured mobile therapist and has now qualified as an

Tigers v Worcester Warriors Tigers v Harlequins Tigers v Exeter Chiefs Tigers v Ospreys (Heineken Cup) Tigers v Northampton Saints Tigers v Bath Rugby Tigers v Benetton Treviso Tigers v Gloucester Rugby

EFT Practitioner (Emotional Freedom Technique) too, which is a simple to use technique for anyone suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, and can also help with weight loss and cravings.

Used by many celebrities this technique can be used every day to help you combat your fears enabling you to get on with your life.

Zanny said: ‘I have a very down to earth approach and all clients are treated in the strictest of confidence. I offer great discounts for ongoing treatments and for those not sure I also do introductory sessions.’

Visit www.HealingGraceHolistics.vpweb.co.uk for more information.

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22/08/2012 13:30

Feature /// Gear

Kitbag

Got the idea, but no gear?

Here’s some great sporting stuff to spend your hard-earned on

Thornton blazer From the new season’s Barbour Sporting range, this ladies wool and cashmere blazer is ideal for those outdoor activities that require a splash of style.

From Barbour stockists Price £229

Magellan Explorist GC A powerful GPS system designed with budding Geocachers in mind. Fully loaded with all you need to get involved in the digital hide and seek sport.

From Precision Outdoor, Stamford Price £199

Inov8 Roclite 315 The most durable running shoe from this award winning brand, uber lightweight at only 315 grams and enough tread to see you through the muddy winter months as well has holding firm on hard ground.

From Precision Outdoor, Stamford Price £90

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Cube Ltd SL mountain bike Fast sporting hardtail for performance-motivated riders for occasional cross-country racing and marathons, Alpine mountain biking or training.

From CycleWright, Baston Price £1,129

Dubarry boot Sports pavillion Scotts of Thrapston offer a wide range of pavillions to suit all sporting budgets and needs, from little changing rooms to imperious clubhouses.

From Scotts of Thrapston Price approx £15,000 and above

The iconic Dubarry boot is a must for everyone this winter. With a range of different styles and colours, all with Gore-Tex lining, they’re perfect for traipsing the fields or popping in to town.

From T&C Robinson, Stamford Price £299

RockShox Reverb seatpost Always offering the right saddle height whether you’re ripping through rolling terrain, cranking hard or getting off the back of the bike, the Reverb Seatpost is ready for anything and adds that all-important comfort to your ride.

From Rutland Cycling Price £254.99

Burghley gilet Show your support for Burghley while at the same time keeping out any unwanted chills with this official gilet.

From Joules Price £49.95

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22/08/2012 16:07

Guest column

One massive ego and an army of sycophants, in a world of his own The Sunday Times’ senior sports writer Martin Johnson is unimpressed by Kevin Pietersen’s approach to team sport ’VE HAD A HORRIBLE TIME of it at work recently. The office want me to do three jobs at once, all for a measly £3 million a year, and when I told the boss I wanted time off to recharge the batteries (okay, and to recharge my bank account with some freelance work for an Indian firm) all my workmates started sniggering behind my back and putting unkind comments about me on Twitter.

On top of which my wife got very irritated when she accused me of making her late by hogging the bathroom, and then found me trying on one of her earrings. It was at this point it all got on top of me.

“Darling”, I said “you don’t understand how difficult it is being me.”

There must be more egotistical people around than Kevin Pietersen, but you’d be hard pressed to know where to look. And if it is that difficult being him, maybe he should think about trying to be someone else. Someone more attached the real world, perhaps.

The way Pietersen is going, the man who loves nothing more than being in the spotlight is in danger of ending up with no-one caring what he’s up to. No matter what it pays, the Indian Premier League is of marginal interest at best – unless you happen to be a bent Bombay bookmaker.

The thing about Kev is that he loves being in the picture. When Andrew Strauss put to bed question marks about his England position with a century against South Africa at the Oval, it was inevitable that KP would not only be at the other end, but also be

I

involved in the following morning’s newspaper photographs nearly crushing the life out his captain with an exaggerated bear hug.

England have tried before to accommodate their more eccentric characters; Chris Lewis, for example. I remember interviewing him at Grace Road and I asked him why he always referred to himself in the third person, and which people (which is pertinent to the advice KP seems to be getting) he most listened to.

His reply was: “Chris Lewis only listens to two people. God and (former England cricketer) Ken Higgs.” I was so flabbergasted that the obvious followup question sadly eluded me: “Er, in that order?”

England went along with him shaving his head in the Caribbean and getting sunstroke, withdrawing with ‘heavy legs’, but finally lost patience when he turned up late for a Test match citing a puncture.

Pietersen is similarly tough to deal with, the sort of bloke who issues statements one week along the lines of “I’m retiring from all one day cricket” to “I am committed to all forms of the game” the next.

Then we had the text messaging, slagging off his captain to the opposition. At first he wouldn’t apologise, then – using careful language – he used his agent to ‘apologise’ on his behalf.

England’s decision to omit Pietersen from the third Test was inevitable – given the priority placed by Strauss and Andrew Flower on team unity. What happens in the future rather depends on KP getting better counsel from the sycophants who advise him.

The problem with that, though, given that he has half ownership in his own management company, is that the poor lad is advising himself. /// S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2 1 9

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Feature /// Local Olympians

Crista’s goals power Team GB to bronze Oakham’s hockey star Crista Cullen talks to Frank Hayes about her Olympic experience as part of the team that secured a bronze medal What were the Olympics like for you?

From a hockey perspective, we’ve never had the opportunity to play in front of 16,000 people every match, all screaming for Great Britain. It was a unique experience for us all and amazing to be a part of.

Were the crowds as extraordinary as they appeared on television and how did you cope with the pressure?

It was really weird actually because I didn’t feel under pressure, I didn’t feel like there was huge expectation. We just knew that we worked so hard and all we had to do was to go out there and be ourselves. I knew that we had such a good team that we could do that and we would be fine no matter who the opposition were.

Losing to Argentina in the semis must have been a bitter blow. Did you think you were the better side?

Yes. The second goal was really controversial. It was pure obstruction which basically took me out of the game and the offence subsequently lead to the goal. I’m not being rude to the Argentinians who are an incredibly good team – they deserved their place in the final as much as I think we were slightly hard done by.

However, it was really quite difficult for us losing in that manner, and then having to turn it around and put up a fighting performance to get bronze. I think that it was here that we demonstrated the character we had.

You mention working so hard - what sort of training did you do?

We trained daily and did fitness and gym work three times a week – a full-time professional programme, although it wasn’t being funded at that level. I had extra drag flick sessions – all specialist stuff and there were all sorts of extra bits and bobs.

The Olympics seemed to be so well organised and the facilities looked immense. What did you think about it?

It was on another level and the volunteers were just fantastic. We were in among all other athletes and there was an area where the GB team sat but were able to socialise with many of the contestants in other sports, which was great.

The vibe around the whole place was just electric, everybody was so happy and other countries were so positive about the whole experience. It was such a great success, despite there being a number of sceptics out there before it started.

Will this success have a major effect on future prospects for the game?

I really do hope so. I have already been sent tweets from a number of people and one said that we had inspired her to pick up a hockey

stick, although she was 38 years old and hadn’t played for 10 years. She was wondering how to join a club and I referred to the website www. hockeynation.info. Ultimately that’s the whole point: inspiring new people, young or old.

I’ve heard a rumour that at only 26 you’re considering retiring?

I have retired from my club and I haven’t made any decisions yet but I’ve done two world cups, the Commonwealth Games, two Olympic Games, seven European cups and a number of Champions Trophies. I’ve been travelling the world playing hockey for 10 years. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it and made some amazingly life-long friendships. There is an element of saying ‘go out on a high’ but, who knows... you always have a period of reflection after the four-year cycle of an Olympic Games.

I’m not totally ruling it out but I’m just seeing

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Smith dazzles in Olympic arena Silver and bronze for the Peterborough gymnast scariest time of our lives, but the most exhilarating and emotional – such a journey.”

After arriving at Cathedral Square, Louis was presented with a commemorative plaque and glass vase on behalf of the city by Mayor of Peterborough George Simons.

Smith, who won individual silver after the tightest of decisions in the final of the pommel horse and took part in the hard-fought bronze won in the team competition having won silver in Beijing four years before, has voiced doubts over whether he will be able to continue on to the next Olympic Games which are being staged in Rio in 2016, citing age, business and family commitments.

REPORTAGE/ARCHIVAL IMAGE

NIGEL GARDENER PHOTOGRAPHY

Thousands of people in lined the streets of Peterborough city centre to acclaim double Olympic medal winner Louis Smith.

The gymnast, who lives in Eye and won silver and bronze, claimed he was overwhelmed by the reception as he waved to crowds from an open-topped bus.

The 23-year-old signed hundreds of autographs for more than an hour and said he was amazed by the reaction, and by the whole experience of London 2012.

He said: “It was crazy. To be in that arena and experience it as a British athlete in the home Games was the craziest feeling.

“We had such an amazing time. The

how I feel and enjoy the experience over the next few weeks.

You were at Oakham School along with Tom Croft and Stuart Broad, who also play for England at rugby and cricket respectively. Do have endearing memories?

I’ve incredibly fond memories of my time at Oakham. It gave so many of us a huge platform to spring board off. The school gives you drive to want to succeed, and I feel privileged to have had that up-bringing and the support network and to be part of an Oakham legacy.

What advice would you offer youngsters?

Ultimately people who succeed are generally those who have had to put their head down and prove to themselves and other people that they were genuinely good enough and that’s what it is about – never giving up on your dreams.

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GEOFFREY ROBINSON / ALAMY

Feature /// Burghley

Burghley’s triple challenge Burghley competitor Julia Dungworth explains the finer points of three-day eventing at one of the world’s most testing and auspicious venues

As a four-star event, Burghley is a test of the very highest international standard riders and horses, in the house’s glorious grounds and starting on August 30. Last year, William Fox-Pitt won on Parklane Hawk and this year around 90 horses and riders will be aiming to emulate him. To do so, they must overcome these challenges...

DRESSAGE

Thursday and Friday are all about dressage.

You may have watched the amazing dressage at the Olympics and at Burghley it is obviously the same but with not quite as much high dancing in the arena required.

However, the test still includes flying changes, half passes and an amazing understanding of the equine athlete. In the eventing world dressage can be especially difficult because we have to train our horses for the cross country and show jumping too, which can make them more flighty.

2012

BURGHLEY SPECIAL ISSUE

Dressage is scored by doing a series of set-out movements to three different judges. All movements are marked out of 10, then totalled to make an average percentage then a co-efficient is used to make it a negative. Put simply – the lower the score the better!

CROSS COUNTY

Saturday is the one to watch, whether on the monitor in the main arena or wandering around the stunning parkland.

Cross country is all about speed and endurance, and with the course being between 11-12 minutes long what looks like a massive fence doesn’t always cause the problems – it is often the more technical fences towards the end that catch riders out. It is definitely worth the walk up to the further part of the course to look at some of the bigger fences, such as the awesome Cottesmore leap.

Speed plays a big part and there are only usually a handful of competitors inside a set

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NICO MORGAN

NICO MORGAN

Above, from le

Cross country is the most exciting of the three challenges, with horse and rider competing against the terrain and the clock; dressage is highly technical; show jumping is the final event

SHOW JUMPING

By Sunday the riders are having to deal with really quite tired horses, who now have about 14 fences to show jump, which only take a very light touch from the horse to have them down.

In some ways this is the most exciting part to eventing as this is where the final places are decided and the competition is won and lost.

For added excitement it runs in reverse order of merit and you have four faults for a knockdown which means it can be very costly.

Again time plays a really important factor: when you get one penalty point for every second over the optimum time, that also can be really costly!

J U LI A’S ONES TO WATCH horses entered, both of which he really rates and you can never rule out a placing when Mark is around.

JONATHAN CLARKE

optimum time and for every second over the time, 0.4 of a penalty is added to the dressage score. There are also penalties points for a stop and elimination for the fall of horse and or rider, but a refusal at a fence pretty much leaves you out of the competition.

William Fox-Pitt William (above) has an incredible four horses entered (he is only allowed to ride two) and being last year’s winner, I think the safe money would be on him!

Mark Todd Everyone should watch the master at work. He has two

Sam Griffiths Sam rode this horse in the Olympics a few weeks ago and had a really unlucky fall on the flat. He will be looking to put that behind him and is hungry for a big win.

Lucy Wiegersma So nearly made it to the Olympics and was in fact sat outside the gate with her horse all plaited waiting for the call that never came. She too is one to watch in the cross country

and I think she will be putting her foot down to prove a point.

Francis Whittington Another on the list for the Olympics, Francis has to be one of the unluckiest riders I know!

Surely this time he will have his lucky pants on and be on for a top placing – he’s normally super fast on this horse and I would put my money on him being in the time.

The Cross Country Course http://www.burghley-horse.co. uk/PDFs/XCMap2012.pdf For more information visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk

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22/08/2012 16:04

Feature /// Burghley

A SPOTTER’S GUIDE TO

THE BURGHLEY SET 2012EY

BURGHL SPECIAL ISSU E

The Horse Trials always conjures up the most colourful characters. Recognise any of these?

Illustration: Rowan Clifford

FIONA SHOPAHOLIC HOT-IN-TWEED HARRIET OR TWEED TOTTY

In her short tweed skirt, designer boots and chunky sunglasses, she’ll aim to look the epitome of countryside cool in front of the boys, and it’s all about appearances – hoping she might get snapped for the society pages.

OR YUMMY SHOPPING MUMMY

No stone garden statue le unturned, no pashmina le unfurled and fur hats, cashmere jumpers and wooden pergolas le trailing in her wake as she blasts through the stalls buying everything in sight. The question is: how to get it all back to Chelsea?

THE LANDED GENTRY OR THE LANDED GENTRY

Champagne quaffed, cigars smoked, these old boys will rock on their chairs, laugh at old tales, get redder in the face and roll off home at the end of the day for a snore on the sofa. The best of days.

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GILES THE BEER BOY

OR THE BEER BOY

He saw a horse once, when a mounted policeman told him to move on, but his day is spent cheerily shouting odd nicknames at ex-schoolmates along the bar and wondering why the girls don’t find his jokes funny. A good day is one without spilling beer on his loafers.

GERALD MUSTY-EXPERT OR THE EQUESTRIAN EXPERT

The ground was very like this back in ‘84, he says, and who can forget Smyth’s performance back in ’68?

Encyclopedic on every horse and rider, he’ll know the times and placings, the scores, who did well in the dressage and favourites for the show jumping. Might go on a bit a er the hip flask is drained.

KEEN DREAMER KATY OR THE PONY CLUB PRINCESS

She’s been to trials the length and breadth of the country, and wears the passes like medals from a long and glorious campaign, and loves every horse here like they’re her babies, dreaming of glory one day...

BUY A LIMITED EDITION PRINT OF THE ILLUSTRATIONS! Rowan Clifford has been making a living as an illustrator since 1982, working with most of the major publishers and TV companies on spin-offs of well-known characters and illustrative styles, including ‘Spot’, ‘Fungus the Bogeyman’, and ‘Peter Rabbit’. Limited edition unframed prints are available for purchase at £20 each or £100 for the set plus £5 postage to mainland UK. Please send a cheque to Grassroots Publishing, The Grey House, 3 Broad Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1PG. Make sure to include a return postage address! Alternatively email prints@theactivemag.com for more information.

/// S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2 2 5

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22/08/2012 15:37

Feature /// Burghley

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2012

BURGHLEY SPECIAL ISSUE

Th e Bu rgh l ey set Getting togged up for the horse trials or an Indian summer trip to the races? We’ve got the very finest local suppliers to suggest the latest in equestrian fashion. Tally ho!

Photography: Dott ie Photography

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Feature /// Burghley THIS PAGE

Jods £34.99 & Blue Jeans £69.95 from T&C Robinson Hat £85-£189 by Amanda Caroline Couture Jacket £85 from Enienay Upcycled Womenswear

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22/08/2012 14:24

LEFT From le : Tweed Sports Jacket, Purple & Red check,

by Magee £325, Red ‘v’ neck jumper by Gant £82.50, Shirt

by Gant £89.50, Jeans by Gant £95; Reversible Red/ Navy Gilet

by Gant £189, Heavy cotton Zip sweater by Gant £125, Jeans by Gant £95; Needlecord Jacket with leather elbow patches by Camel Active £199, Checked shirt, cotton & cashmere, by Olymp £75, Dark brown jeans by Gant £95; Tweed Sports Jacket, Green/ Brown check by Magee £295, Navy ‘v’ neck jumper

by Gant £82.50, Shirt by Gant £89.50, Jeans by Camel Active £89.50

ABOVE Cakes and Sweets by Katie Watts Couture Cakes, Vintage crockery, flowers & styling by Vintage Teas & RSVPs

LEFT Hat by Amanda Caroline Couture £329

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ffgfgfgfgfggfgf gfgfgfgfggfdgd gflg fdgl; gdfl; g fkdldfkg l;dfl; g f;gdgkdl;gdkfgd;lgkdg;dgk fg dfg df gfg dgdfgdgdgdfgg fgdfad f fgfgfgg fg gdfgdgdfgdfgdfgdgdgdgfg

Manufacturers of exceptional English limestone products ● Walling Stone ● Architectural Masonry ● Clipsham Blockstone ● Fireplaces ● Flooring Stamford Stone Head Office Manor Stone House, Station Road, Barnack, Stamford. PE9 3DW Telephone: +44 (0)1780 740430 Fax: +44 (0)1780 740775 Email: sales@stamfordstone.co.uk

p.30.indd 30

Visit our website: www.stamfordstone.co.uk

22/08/2012 11:51

Feature /// Burghley

ABOVE

Tweed short sleeved jacket - Enienay Upcycled Womenswear from £85 Rest of items - T&C Robinson Leather hat £49.45, Dubarry Boots £299 Blue Jeans £69.95, Dubarry Bag £179 Jods £34.99, Knomo Bag £255

BELOW

Various cheeses supplied by Cheese Cellar Stamford

ABOVE

Katie Watts Couture Cakes

RIGHT

Spotty dress from Minymo £23.99 (all clothes now in half price sale!). Leo wore T-shirt and shorts from Kite Kids.

T-shirt £15 shorts £24.

/// S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2 3 1

26-33 fashion feature.indd 30

22/08/2012 14:27

Looking for something

very special?

Bridal Dresses Bridesmaid Dresses Mother of the Bride Hats • Shoes • Accessories

Telephone 01933 355591

19 Market Square, Higham Ferrers, Northants Opening Monday to Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm Sundays by appointment

Ad sizes.indd 32

22/08/2012 11:51

Feature /// Burghley RIGHT

Hats by Amanda Caroline Couture, two dresses on the right from La Bella Mother/ Bride groom outfits, Higham Ferrers, prices from £250.

Vintage lace dress by Anoushka in blush with stole - £495, Amanda Wakeley ecru tux tailored dress (matching jacket also available) from Private Kollection - £540

Th e Ru n n ers and R iders PHOTOGRAPHY Dottie Photography www.dottiephotography.co.uk SIGNS & LABELS Dottie Creations www.dottiecreations.com

BELOW

DOTTIE BLOG www.trulymadlydottieblog.com

Tops and tails from Colin Bell Dress from La Bella from £250.

Bike - Dawes bike £350 CycleWright of Baston

HATS, HEADWEAR & VINTAGE JEWELLERY Amanda Caroline Couture www.amandacarolinebridal.com CAKES AND SWEETIES Katie Watts Couture Cakes www.couture-cakes.co.uk VINTAGE CROCKERY, FLOWERS & STYLING Vintage Teas & RSVPs www.vintageteasandrsvps.co.uk MAKE-UP Liza Smith www. professionalmakeup-artist.com TWEED SHORT SLEEVED ‘JACKET JACKET’ Enienay Upcycled Womenswear www.enienay.com

BELOW

All tops and tails available for hire from Colin Bell

MODELS Chelsea Fitzpatrick (www. chelseafitzpatrick.com), Alison Jenner, Paul Jenner, Adam Istead, Gareth Thomas, April Carter, Liza Smith, Mark Smith MENSWEAR Casuals and tails: Colin Bell www.colinbellmenswear.co.uk WOMEN’S OCCASION WEAR La Bella www.la-bella.biz and Private Kollection www.privatekollection.com VENUE Grange Farm www.grange-farm.co.uk CHEESE The Cheese Cellar Stamford 01780 489269 VINTAGE BICYCLE

Cyclewright Baston www.cyclewright.co

CHILDREN’S CLOTHES

Bubble & Squeak Stamford

www.bubbleandsqueakstamford. co.uk THANKS TO

All the riders and horses who took part

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Feature /// Burghley

2012 LEY

ANGELO HORNAK / ALAMY

BURGH SPECIA L ISSU E

Burghley Park runs Fancy running in the hoofprints of the horses? Our resident runner Alexa Cutteridge offers two runs around Burghley. Jumping fences is optional RUN ONE Burghley Park Loop

RUN TWO Burghley-Easton Loop

www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/116809623 LENGTH: Three miles TIME AT 10 MINUTE MILES: 30 minutes TERRAIN: Three gentle uphills, road and grass

www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/116412599 LENGTH: Five miles TIME AT 10 MINUTE MILES: 50 minutes TERRAIN: Two gentle and one long uphill, road and grass

DIFFICULTY RATING:     

DIFFICULTY RATING:

THIS IS GREAT for a high tempo run or a quick lunch time fitness session.

Starting from the back of Park Lane enter the park via the little swing gate and pass the cricket club on your right and the Princess Diana memorial garden on your left. As you join the road you head downhill towards Burghley House on the horizon.

Passing through the Iron Gate keep heading to the left of the house. When you come to the crossroads head right towards the house and follow the road back towards Stamford before bearing left towards Lions Bridge.

Alternatively, when you reach the house you can come off the road and run on the grass parallel to the river towards Lions Bridge (the gardens are beautiful!) At Lions Bridge pick up the rough track back towards Stamford.

You will find yourself back at the Iron Gate, however this time go left uphill towards South Bottle Lodge. I often use this point to do some stretching before a gentle jog back downhill in to Stamford, finishing at Park Lane.

SET OFF on the Burghley Park loop, but at the Iron Gate take the second turn on the right and head directly to Lions Bridge then exit the park via South Bottle Lodge.

This should take around 15 minutes without the extra loop via the house.

At the Lodge turn left and head gently uphill on the London Road. When you reach the golf club turn right, crossing the road with care to pick up the signposted bridleway through woodlands.

The bridleway is kind to runners’ legs after the hard uphill road running and the picturesque route which you are on for a good 20 minutes is highly motivating.

As you cross above the A1 on the footbridge make the most of the stunning view of Stamford – particularly at dawn or dusk.

Follow the bridle path off to the right on a grassy path

by Wothorpe Towers. At the end of the bridle way bear left descending down Wothorpe Hill towards to the A43.

With care cross the A43 on to the path running parallel to the road taking you in to Stamford via Stamford Junior School.

This is the last leg of the route so make the most of the flat and run at a tempo pace for maximum benefits.

Above

Stunning Burghley House is the focal point of both of these runs, so soak in the architectural brilliance while burning a few calories





POST WORK OUT TIP 10 minute stretch + 100ml fruit juice + 1 litre of water + pinch of sea salt crystals = excellent recovery // Advised by Lindsay Holden, Pure Lifestyles www.purelifestyles.co.uk

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ALIN DRAGULIN / ALAMY

Feature /// Fitness

Team fitness Active’s resident health and fitness expert Mark Gordon has devised some devilish drills to help you get your team in fighting form for the forthcoming season. Be prepared to sweat...

These tests are great for most pitch or court sports and also adaptable for individuals too. To undertake this test, the diagrams of how to set up the runs are at www.theactivemag.com

stopwatch. The athlete squats down lightly touching the chair with their backside. The assistant counts and records the number of successfully completed squats.

around E then to D, then around E before returning to A (see website for cone positions).

The assistant records the time when the athlete’s torso crosses the finishing line.

YOU WILL NEED

22-METRE BOUNDING TEST

DIAGONAL PITCH RUNS

Pitch/400-metre track if possible, a 30-metre tape measure, cones, stopwatch, whistle, assistant.

COOPER 12-MINUTE RUN

This test requires the athlete to run as far as possible in 12 minutes. The athlete warms up for 10 minutes. The athlete commences the test and the assistant starts the stopwatch. The assistant blows the whistle when the 12 minutes has elapsed and records the distance.

1-MINUTE PRESS-UP TEST

This test requires the athlete to perform as many press-ups as possible in one minute.

This test requires the athlete to perform a number of bounding activities as fast as possible. The assistant marks with cones a 22m section on the track. The assistant gives the command ‘go’ and starts the stopwatch. The athlete hops the 22m on the right leg, immediately turns and long strides the 22m, immediately turns and hops the 22m on the left leg, turns and long strides the 22m, turns and does two footed hops the 22m, turns and sprints the 22m. The assistant stops the stopwatch and records the time when the athlete’s torso crosses the finishing line after the 22m sprint.

ZIG-ZAG RUN

This test requires the athlete to run as fast as possible over 30 metres. The assistant marks with cones a 30m section on the track. The athlete sprints from a stationary position as fast as possible to the 30-metre finish line. The assistant records the time.

This test requires the athlete to run an agility zigzag circuit as fast as possible. The assistant gives the command ‘go’ and start the stopwatch.

The athlete runs from A to B to C, zigzags between cones to D and then zigzags back to C. Sprint to E and then F (see website for cone positions). The assistant records the time when the athlete’s torso crosses the finishing line.

1-MINUTE SQUAT TEST

STAR RUN

30-METRE SPRINT

This requires the athlete to perform as many squats as possible in one minute. The athlete stands in front of a chair, facing away from it, with their feet shoulder width apart. The assistant gives the command to start and starts the

This test requires the athlete to run an agility star circuit as fast as possible. The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch. The athlete starts at A and runs to E, sprints around to cone B and back to E around to C then back and

This test requires the athlete to carry out a series of sprints on a pitch as fast as possible. The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch. The athlete sprints from A to B to C to D and back to A (see website for cone positions).

The assistant stops the stopwatch and records the time when the athlete’s torso crosses the finishing line at A.

1-MINUTE SIT-UPS TEST

This test requires the athlete to perform as many sit-ups as possible in one minute. The athlete lies on the mat with the knees bent, feet flat on the floor and the hands on their ears where they must stay throughout the test. The assistant holds the athlete’s feet on the ground. The assistant gives the command ‘go’ and starts the stopwatch. The athlete sits up touching the knees with their elbows, then returns back to the floor. The assistant counts and records the number of correct sit-ups completed in the one minute.

MARK GORDON

Mark@fitness2health.co.uk www.fitness2health.co.uk FACEBOOK: Mark FitnessTrainer MOBILE: 07525 657596

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22/08/2012 16:18

Feature /// Jump Cross

Cross country made easier Unlikely to make international horse trial standard?

Alexa Cutteridge looks at some alternatives

JUMP CROSS Love the exciting element of cross country and the precision of show jumping? Then Jump Cross could be for you.

Jump Cross was launched in 2001 by Robin Dunlop, who, after many years of building and observing cross country courses, decided to create a cdiscipline for all abilities and ages of riders to develop skill, technique and confidence when riding a ross country.

The knock-down fences means the course is not as intimidating as solid fences for horse or rider, yet it still demands a high level of balance and rhythm.

The great thing about Jump Cross is that it caters for all. Whether you are a young rider wanting a fun, progressive discipline to develop both your and your pony’s skill or perhaps you are an adult rider returning to riding or with a young horse wanting to bring them on, then Jump Cross is for you!

As an instructor Emily Cullum believes Jump Cross is useful when teaching mixed ability groups such as Pony Club groups as it allows instructors to be able to provide instruction to all members of the group and everyone is able to participate safely.

She also finds Jump Cross an excellent way to preparing riders for exams or competitions as they learn how to understand speed over distance travelled. The undulating ground and water complexes also help to improve riders’ balance and the horses confidence.

should you knock them. Normally, at the last fence, there is an option to jump the joker fence – this is approximately six inches higher than the rest of the course. If you clear the joker, 40 penalties will be taken off your score. If you knock it down, 40 penalties will be added.

// THE COURSE Courses are approximately 1.5-2km in length and include up to 25 obstacles, all of similar colour, but of variable style and technicality.

The patented Jump Cross course is made out of sturdy, shatter-proof and weather-proof plastic with poles which fall away from the horse

// SCORING Each rider’s score is calculated by taking their time to complete the course (in seconds) and adding on any penalties for knock-downs and refusals and penalties added or deducted for jumping the joker. The rider with the lowest score is the winner.

// PENALTIES ● Knock-down – 20 penalties for each knockdown. ● Refusal – 50 penalties for each refusal. (Two refusals at the same fence and you will be asked to move on to the next fence). ● 6 refusals around the course - elimination ● Rider fall - elimiation ● Horse fall - elimiation // THE FUTURE Jump Cross is growing aand there are now 14 hubs in the UK and it is currently developing in France, Belgium and Denmark. Grange Farm is

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looking to host a national championships as well as the league system.

Robin believes Jump Cross does have the potential to become an international and Olympic equestrian sport. // CASE STUDY Rachel Dinwoodie (18), recently won the Jump Cross Young Rider Challenge. Rachel said: “I find Jump Cross so rewarding as it combines two equine disciplines making you feel you have accomplished so much more at the end of the course.”

She finds it develops both yourself and the horse’s confidence ready for when you do face cross country with solid jumps or show jumping with precision.

Rachel competes on both a mature 18-year old dressage horse and her new eight-year-old eventer – proving just how versatile Jump Cross is as a sport. // COSTS OF TRAINING Training at Grange farm is always with an accredited Jump Cross trainer. A 10% discount is available to Pony Club members.

Juniors (under 15): £25 for 2 hours Adults (15 and over): £30 Individual one-on-one tuition for all ages: £35

POLO – HOCKEY ON A HORSE (SORT OF) The sweet sound of the perfect shot and the pounding of the ponies’ hooves as they gallop across immaculately kept turf: polo is a game that is addictive and requires horsemanship and ood hand-eye coordination.

I joined in with training sessions at Ranksboro Polo Club, Langham, with HPA coach Joe North.

I couldn’t believe how easy it was to pick up what looked like such a complex skill – essentially it was hockey on a pony – you are guaranteed to be hitting balls after your first lesson.

Joe’s bubbly character and fun approach to the sport makes you feel very much at home in the saddle.

The club caters for all abilities and you do not have to have riding experience (some say it is better if you have never sat in a saddle before!).

Lessons are £35 for an hour or £50 for a beginner’s session lasting an hour and a half.

Although it is coming to the end of the polo season, lessons continue t be offered all year around due to the fantastic all weather pitch at Langham.

// CONTACT Amanda North (07904 270 257) to make a booking and quote ‘Active Polo’ to get your first lesson for just £30. // DATE FOR THE DIARY September 1-2 at 11am, Ranksboro Polo Club Tournament – a great chance to watch a local polo match.

Contact information: www.ranksboropolo.co.uk Amanda North: amandanorth@btinternet.com // POLO QUICK FACTS Polo originated 2,500 years go ● The playing field is 274 x 146 metres wide ● Four players in a team ● Chukka – seven minute period of a game. ● Usually six of these are played per game. ● At full gallop ponies travel at around 38mph ● ‘Ride off’ – when a player moves another player off the line of the ball by making shoulder-to-shoulder contact with the other players’ horses to prevent them from playing a shot. ●

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Feature /// Rugby preview

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UNION BACK

Rugby veteran and now Active’s egg-shaped ball correspondent Jeremy Beswick previews the local sides as the season kicks off Photography: Jonathan Clarke

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write as the Olympics have just finished and, of course, most of us wouldn’t have missed it for the world - even the rhythmic gymnasts had a certain effete charm. And yet as autumn approaches I find myself hankering for something slightly less strident. Sport in the raw, played only for the love of the game, part of the warp and weft of our local communities and as British as a Danny Boyle opening ceremony.

If this strikes a chord then read on, as the upcoming Stamford and Rutland rugby union season is in perfect contrast to the corporate mega-carnival that was the Olympics, and your local club needs you.

You’ll find all three of these local clubs (Oakham, Stamford and Stamford College Old Boys) pleased to see you, so why not go along and get involved? I’ll be there – look out for the bloke on the touchline with his third pint in hand and a Barbour that’s seen better days (although to be fair, that might not narrow it down much). Engage!

OAKHAM

Rutland’s foremost rugby club was founded in 1923, rumoured to be the birth year of some of their veterans’ fifteen.

There are two senior teams, so you’ll be able to catch a match almost every Saturday at around 2:30pm. Both boys and girls join in the mini/junior teams that play for fun on Sundays, and any new prospective players are welcome at the training sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

Finishing mid-table last time around, club stalwart John Hamilton says they’ll be looking to

Feature /// Rugby preview consolidate their position this season and plan for an extended run in the RFU Intermediate Cup. An annual highlight is the home match against long-standing rivals Melton and with local fixtures including Aylestone St James and Belgrave there’s plenty of spice to the action.

Look out for the players selected for Leicestershire last season, centre Tom “Stretch” Armstrong and wing James Padley, who in years to come will be able to tell his grandchildren he scored a try in the final at Twickenham. You’ll be among up to 100 or so supporters at a first team match and, as with all the clubs, entrance is free.

Just walk in and enjoy.

Apart from sponsorship from local businesses a major part of their income comes from bar receipts. This is handy, as it means you can tell yourself you’re only drinking for the greater good of the club. Prices in the clubhouse are well below average pub rates – so what’s not to like?

Should someone sidle over and ask if you’d like to become a member (which they might well do if you’re not actually carrying an axe and foaming at the mouth) don’t be put off – it’s the equivalent of 80p per week. They do a mean members’ lunch as well.

‘ALL THREE LOCAL CLUBS WILL BE PLEASED TO SEE YOU, SO WHY NOT GET INVOLVED?’

STAMFORD

Stamford is a club back on the up after a period in the relative doldrums, as evidenced by a stunning run of three cup victories in a row.

Head coach David Laventure recently hired Leicester Tigers’ Richard Mardling on a full-time basis and with new playing recruits such as number eight Frank Wiese, further improvement can be expected this season.

First team captain Matt Albinson tells me you won’t be able to miss Frank: he’s a Namibian

Above and below

The rugby is of a decent standard, and two Oakham players have been selected to play at county level for Leicestershire

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Feature /// Rugby preview from London who’s built like a brick outside toilet (Matt didn’t use those precise words, but you get he drift). Other stars include Rodney Smith, the scrum half – known universally as Bob, but no-one knows why – and vice captains James Ragg and Tom Lindley.

It’s not only the playing and coaching staff that’s had a makeover - the newly refurbished clubhouse bar is a must-visit and the seconds are one of the strongest in the country at this level.

Add in the vets, minis and juniors and there are around 400 players at the club.

A young and improving side, expect them to push hard for promotion. On September 22 there’s a mini/juniors curtain raiser and family day before the first round of the RFU National Vase against East Retford.

‘THE FANS ACCOMPANY THE SIDE ON THE ANNUAL CLUB TOUR – NOT FOR THE FAINTHEARTED, ONE SUSPECTS’

STAMFORD COLLEGE OLD BOYS

Le

It’s not just about the action on the pitch; all three clubs have a thriving social side and welcome spectators and new players alike

Playing at Queen Eleanor School, SCOB are now a mixed side, but a couple of Old Boys in the first team ensure the tradition goes on.

This is the archetypal social rugby club with 30 to 50 supporters, players and officials mixing after the game at The Hurdler Inn. Fans accompany the side on the annual club tour – not for the faint-hearted, one suspects, but as we all know what goes on tour stays on tour...

Although they finished towards the bottom of the league last time around plenty of new talent has been recruited for the new season.

Chairman Gavin Moss says they’re looking forward to surprising some of their opponents, particularly main rivals Bourne, Corby and Aylestone. Watch out for Aled Pattinson at centre, Steve Briggs at scrum half and captain/ prop Carl Walker.

There’s a game each Saturday but check the website to see if they’re home or away.

Financially the club survives by fund-raising; do buy a raffle ticket or even donate a prize to the tombola. Gavin tells me they’re looking to strengthen the coaching side so if there are any budding Clive Woodwards out there they’d like to hear from you – just drop by the Hurdler!

CLUB INFORMATION OAKHAM

League: The memorably named Midlands 2 East North First home fixture: v Belgrave, September 8 Location: The Showground, off Pillings Road/Lands End Road, Oakham Website: www.pitchero.com/clubs/ oakham for fixture list, directions, etc Contact: Club coach Tom Armstrong - 07792 230517 or membership secretary John “Hammers” Hamilton - 01572 723462 Club house: 01572 724206

STAMFORD

League: Midlands 3 East South First home fixture: v Deeping, September 8

Location: Hambleton Road, Stamford, PE9 2RZ Website: www.pitchero.com/clubs/ stamford Contact: First team captain Matt Albinson - 07793 505521 Club house: 01780 752180

STAMFORD COLLEGE OLD BOYS

League: Midlands 4 East South First home fixture: v Oundle, September 8 Location: Queen Eleanor School, Green Lane, Stamford, PE9 1HE Web site: www.pitchero.com/clubs/ stamfordcollegeoldboys Contact: Captain Carl Walker 07854 371 783

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AURORA PHOTOS / ALAMY

Feature /// Cycling

Back in the saddle Wowed by Wiggins, Hoy and Pendleton, or just think you need to get a bit fitter? Here are 10 easy steps to getting back on your bike Words: Alex Woollen

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1. Cycling with children

If the pressures of family life are one of the reasons why your bike is sitting around neglected, why not use it as a way to spend time together? Local groups such as the Mums and Tots group (featured over the page) are perfect examples of how some families are making cycling work for both them and their children.

2. Invest in the latest technology

We are blessed with some stunning scenery and fantastic attractions here in Rutland and what better way to explore the area than by bike? With more than 22 miles of mainly traffic-free cycling, Rutland Water is probably one of the best family destinations in the country. With osprey spotting, award-winning garden centres and watersports dotted around the water there is plenty of opportunity to take a break from cycling and see what is on offer.

3. Rejuvenate your ride

8. Women only

4. Podium performance

What better way to motivate yourself into getting back on the bike than by entering a local race? Whether it is on or off road, having a target to aim for can be a great way to make sure you increase your cycling intake. This September sees the inaugural Reservoir Cogs sportive event – non-competitive road racing at its finest. Check out www.rutlandcycling.com for more details

5. The gift of time There are some fabulous traffic-free routes on offer in Rutland, making getting back on your bike easy

7. Rutland by bike

If you find it hard work riding your existing bike then why not look at what the advances of modern technology have done for the world of cycling? With aerospace materials, electronic gears and bikes weighing less than 18 pounds, cycling is well and truly a high-tech sport with millions of pounds a year invested into making the simple task of riding a bike easier and more efficient for us.

While the cost of some bikes exceed that of a basic car, this is by no means essential in enjoying cycling. Many people will have an old bike that with a suitable service could go on to provide many more years of service. If you fancy taking on the task of making your bike roadworthy, some shops will offer maintenance classes showing you how to perform basic mechanics and enable you to breathe new life into a tired bike.

Above

up for a ride is great at making sure you don’t fall victim to that weekend lie-in. Stamford Chain Gang (www.stamfordchaingang.co.uk) is a new club that has been set up to cater for the needs of local cyclists who wanted the benefits of a cycling club but at a more leisurely pace.

Finding the time to exercise can be tough and with more strains being placed on our free time, getting to the gym or taking a class can be tricky.

A great way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine is by cycling to work. With nearly half of us living within 15 minutes of work, swapping the car and opting for the bike instead is a quick and easy fix.

6. Join a club

Having like-minded people to cycle with can make the whole process much more fun and knowing that people are expecting you to turn

British Cycling is keen to make sure that cycling does not become a male-dominated pastime and is leading the way with female specific cycling groups. As cycling increases in popularity (buoyed by the performances of the cyclists at the Olympics), the number of woman taking part is actually declining.

Breeze is a campaign that aims to help women feel more confident and comfortable about going on a ride. Check out www.goskyride. com/Breeze for more details.

9. Mountain biking without the mountain

Despite offering some of the best countryside in the country, the county of Rutland is not blessed with the most varied of topography.

All is not lost for those wanting to sample some off-road cycling. Fineshade Woods, a mere eight miles from Stamford, is the latest addition to the Forestry Commission’s network of trail centres. At just over five miles it’s perfect for a family day out, but with a series of skills sections it provides something for those after a taste of the extreme.

10. Cycling chic

The biggest contender for space in a bike shop is not always the bikes themselves but what you wear out on the bike. If cycling conjures up images of flouro lycra and hi-viz jackets then it’s worth checking out the latest in cycling fashion. Cycling specific skirts and tailored cycling shorts are just some of ways you can look good both on and off the bike.

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22/08/2012 12:10

Feature /// Cycling

Free bike rides for mums and tots

Local mums meet up every Friday for a pedal around Rutland Water or Fineshade Wood. Dads and carers are welcome too Words: Fiona Hurlingham /// Photography: Neil Paterson

C

ycling is a great way to introduce your little ones to the great outdoors, and it’s a perfect stress buster and calorie burner for you, says local mum Sally Middlemiss.

A qualified British Cycling ride leader, Sally has organised a free weekly bike ride for mums and tots on Friday mornings at 10am, with carefully-selected routes along traffic-free trails.

There are plenty of nature-spotting opportunities, as well as the all-important juice and biscuit stop. And there’s always a café or picnic spot nearby, with kids’ play area, so you can opt to stay for lunch afterwards.

Stamford-based artist Karen Neale and her two-year-old son Gabriel are regulars on the Friday rides. Karen said: “I used to cycle regularly when I was younger, but I hadn’t ridden a bike for years. I joined Sally’s rides with some trepidation – I didn’t know if I’d keep up, and I’d never ridden a bike with a child seat before. In fact, I didn’t even own a bike, but I was able to hire one for the morning.

“Sally chatted with us all before we set off, explaining the route and giving us some tips on cycling with children.

I have to say I wasn’t sure if Gabriel would like sitting in a child seat, but he has absolutely loved it from day one. He sings along, waves to the other kids, counts the sheep – in

M U MS A ND TOTS R IDE WHEN Friday mornings,

fact, he often runs round the house in his cycle helmet, shouting ‘bike ride, Mummy’!

“The routes are so beautiful – pedalling along, enjoying the views without having to worry about cars, chatting to the other mums – it feels like being on holiday.”

Sally’s mums and tots bike rides are supported by Rutland Cycling, so if you don’t own a bike, you can hire one from £5. These rides form part of British Cycling’s Breeze campaign to get more women cycling.

10am – 11:30am WHERE Rides start from Rutland Cycling’s centres at Whitwell, Normanton and Fineshade Wood DISTANCE 5 miles DIFFICULTY 2/5. Easy pedalling on traffic-free tracks.

Suitable for all abilities COST Free to join with your own bike.

Hire a bike, child seat (age 12 mths+) and helmets for £5.

Hire a bike, 2-child trailer (age 18 mths+) and helmets for £10 HOW TO JOIN To book your place, call 07956 436361 or email rides@rutlandcycling. com

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Feature /// Great walks

Uppingham to Lyddington loop With steep hills and stunning views this is a great appetite builder, as Will Hetherington discovers Photography: Will Hetherington

THE ROUTE

Start in the Market Square in the middle of Uppingham and head west down High Street West.

After you pass the impressive old buildings of Uppingham School on your left keep heading out of town on Stockerston Road. Very shortly after you leave the last buildings of Uppingham there is a footpath off to the right just before the road bends to the left. Take this footpath and follow it through several fields, enjoying the fine views of Rutland to the north as you go.

This path brings you back to Stockerston Road to the left of some farm buildings. Turn left here and stay on the road for about 250 yards until you reach the obvious track on the right. Take this right turn and follow the track.

When you reach Stoke Dry Wood keep it on your right and follow the track down into the corner of the field. Here you cross a stile and very soon Eyebrook Reservoir hoves into view to the south with Stoke Dry to the south east.

On the next half-mile section of the walk the Rutland Round route and the public footpath cross each other three times so it doesn’t matter which one you are on. What does matter is that on the third intersection there are two A4 posters indicating which way to go. You need to follow the Lyddington footpath, not the Rutland Round.

Once you pass Manor Farm the path joins a minor road very briefly up to the A6003. Cross the road and take the footpath through four fields down to Lyddington. By the time you get to this stunning ironstone village you will have done

four miles and will no doubt have built up a thirst. Luckily the village is well served by the Old White Hart and the Marquess of Exeter. Both are good pubs for a drink or a meal.

Suitably refreshed, resume your walk north out of Lyddington on the main road. Once you have left the village the road bends to the right and the footpath goes off to the left soon after.

This is where the hard work begins.

After the first paddock it’s a steep climb across two fields which gets the blood pumping. The footpath then crosses another road and it’s uphill again to the sports grounds of Uppingham Community College. Cross the sports field and keep on the footpath as it goes through two more steep dips before re-entering town. By which time you’ll no doubt be hungry so plan a meal in the Lake Isle or Don Paddy’s after a friendly pint in the Vaults.

THE POOCH PERSPECTIVE

On the day I did this walk we came across one field of sheep and one paddock with two horses, so it’s a good one for letting the dog off.

There aren’t many opportunities for a cooling paddle or drink, apart from a couple of streams in the dips on the way back into Uppingham at the end. But both pubs in Lyddington have pleasant outside seating areas.

Difficulty rating (out of five)

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Where to park The Market Square in Uppingham or the car park on North Street East. Alternatively start in Lyddington so you can finish there for lunch (park at the Marquess of Exeter or the Old White Hart).

all the way round this walk. It might not be the Lake District but this is a pretty special part of England! Gorgeous Lyddington is packed full of dream houses and Uppingham isn’t too shabby either.

Distance and time Six miles/ two hours.

Lowlights You might find yourself a little out of breath as you head out of Lyddington back towards Uppingham. And if it’s been wet

Highlights The views of Rutland pretty much

the ground can be boggy in places.

Refreshments The Old White Hart and the Marquess of Exeter are both good for a drink and a meal in Lyddington. The Vaults in Uppingham is a friendly place for a pint and Don Paddy’s also in the Market Square is good for a drink and food. The Lake Isle on High Street East is good for food.

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TOP STAT

the home of Uppingham is try’s foremost one of the coun and alumni public schools Fry, Rick include Stephen cer, Jonathan Stein, Phil Spen Donald and Agnew and Sir mpbell.

Sir Malcolm Ca

Le and below

Ella stops for a breather before heading back to Uppingham; the Marquess of Exeter is a welcome stopover point for a pint or lunch, gorgeous ironstone dominates, spectacular views of Rutland; Uppingham is a quintessential English market town and offers a good choice of places to eat

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22/08/2012 12:16

Feature /// Sportsman’s Dinner

The Blue Bell Inspired by the Olympic cyclists, JT and Dean attempt the arduous Stamford to Belmesthorpe ride for a meaty dinner Dean - These Olympians inspired us to get out and do something – and what better area for a cycle than Stamford and Rutland? Only five minutes outside of town, wind in our hair, sun shining and beautiful scenery, and we were at the The Blue Bell at Belmesthorpe. We like a long ride.

JT - There’s beer garden as well. It’s a great place for a couple of pints on a nice evening after such a long ride.

Dean - The first thing I noticed as you ride into the car park was the summer real ale beer festival out the back, next to one of the beer gardens. That suited me! Only £2 a pint for a good selection of real ales as well, and there was a friendly welcome from the local CAMRA representative, too. Apparently they have these festivals quite regularly. And I do like all the Union Flags about the place – very patriotic.

JT - As well as a good outside area, there was also a really nice feel inside, with a decent, well-stocked bar with a further selection of real ales and ciders, including Stowford Press, one of my favourites. The bar has a ‘local’ feeling, with a friendly, well-known landlord and a good number of regulars. It’s a lot smarter than your average local though, with trendy leather sofas and a cool stone floor, giving it a modern feel, whilst still obviously a great stone pub with all the traditional bits and pieces you’d expect in a village pub like the inglenook fireplace and traditional bar.

Dean - There was plenty to satisfy my appetite

too, especially after our exhausting bike ride. All your traditional pub favourites, such as lasagne and scampi, but lots more as well such as sweet and sour chicken, curry, ham off the bone and a good selection of fish dishes including a seafood platter. There’s a good selection of at least six vegetarian dishes as well – friends of ours who are that way inclined say you usually get a choice of one veggie dish in a pub. Personally, I couldn’t look much further than the grill menu though. I bet Sir Chris Hoy is a big fan of a grill or two.

JT - I had the T-bone steak. I fancied the mixed grill, but it may have been a bit too much for an athlete like me. Maybe if we’d cycled to Lincoln, I’d have been alright.

Dean - Pork chops for me... inspired by Bradley Wiggins’ sideburns. Although thankfully less hairy. Proper decent grub, too: my two chops were massive, and came with a good amount of chips as well. I was surprised you didn’t go for the jacket potato option, JT, almost being a cycling professional.

section. You’re obviously still in the pub, rather than being out in some side room, but it’s separate from the bar area, without losing the pub feel. Nice stonework, too.

JT - Such was the size of the meals, we had to put the 50-mile time trial off for another night.

Dean - Yep, another pint of Greene King seemed the best option.

JT - Overall, The Blue Bell is a great spot for an impromptu meal, or even a special occasion. It’s good quality pub grub, with good portions at good value as well. If we’d have to choose our perfect meal, it’d be something like what The Blue Bell serves up.

Dean - As well as good food, there’s also a plentiful selection of real ales, lagers, cider and a good wine list as well. All served up in a cosy village setting with a friendly landlord, and loads of regulars.

JT – You can’t not have chips with a steak, Dean – it’s the law. I was really pleased with my dish. I asked for the steak to be cooked medium rare, and it was spot on, and a good size, too. It must have come from one bloody big cow. There was more meat on my plate than on Chris Hoy’s legs.

And all good quality as well.

Dean - I agree. Too many pubs just microwave food. I was seriously happy with my dish. Well cooked and plentiful. Also, I liked the restaurant

The Blue Bell

Shepherd’s Walk, Belmesthorpe, 01780 753081

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Feature /// Win or lose

The Jolly Brewer, Stamford With the ability to show a variety of televised sport, plus a host of real ales, this sports pub continues to innovate and offer value, says Chris Meadows

S

ports pubs – they can be appalling places full of fizzy beer, waiters whose overfriendliness is dependent on the level of bonus they’re on and screens showing all sorts of weird American sports.

But if you enjoy watching football, cricket, rugby, or any other major sport for that matter, in a relaxed place with great beer, then the The Jolly Brewer is pretty hard to beat.

Run for the last six years by Jill Perkins and Dean Baker, in that time the pair have strived to make the place the number one sporting pub in Stamford.

There are four screens to watch sport, including two that show games in 3D, and crucially The Jolly Brewer has the ability to mix feeds so football and rugby fans can watch side-by-side, on Sky and ESPN. Jill points out that “you won’t find EastEnders playing on the TV, but we do cover every major sport!”

Then there’s the other vital element: plenty of extremely well-kept beers to work your way through. It’s no wonder that many sports teams already frequent the pub for post-match refreshments, and there’s plenty of activity within its four walls: the pub plays host to darts,

pool, crib and pushpenny teams, so there’s always a great atmosphere.

As well as the variety of sport, beers and ciders on offer, the pub also serves food every lunchtime as well as on Friday and Saturday evenings. Watch out for the pie nights which will make an appearance again in the autumn.

The recent beer festival went fantastically well, according to Jill, and saw hundreds of people from the area turn up to taste the 40 beers and 10 ciders on offer. The beers were selected from around the country with special precedence to get beers from new breweries or new brews from existing breweries.

Jill’s mantra is that they aim to offer good value all year round and they aren’t afraid to innovate: recently they installed solar panels to the roof of the pub, which have been up and running for the past year.

This year the pub has further increased it’s ‘greenness’ by recycling all its cardboard and plastic packaging.

In many ways, The Jolly Brewer is an old fashioned pub, with awards from CAMRA for its beer, solid pub food, and cheap prices, but the way it embraces 3D TV, solar panels and shows lots of sport suggests it’s a pub that is right of the heart of Stamford’s modern sporting life.

A GUIDE TO THE BEST BEERS Regular beers Doom Bar JHB Guest dark beer Guest strong beer (above 4.5% ABV) Guest session beer (4.5% ABV and below) Two ciders Events Quiz nights on the last Sunday of every month with free entry.

Opening hours 11am to midnight on Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 10.30pm on Sundays Telephone 01780 755141 Web www.jollybrewer. com

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Feature /// Off-road

QUADZILLA ON TEST

Petrol-powered play things If you’re unashamedly a big kid at heart, have a penchant for high-speed thrills, and happen to be passing through Tallington, you really should stop off at 158 Performance – they’re the UK’s foremost peddler of petrol-powered play things and they’re right on your doorstep.

Walk through the door and you’re met with a sea of machinery of all types, from the more familiar quad bikes, to rugged-looking side-byside off-road buggies, to the high-speed threewheeled Can-Am Spyder Roadsters, which wouldn’t look out of place on the set of a Batman film.

“There’s something for everyone here,” says director Matt Bullock, pointing out the range of watercraft in the back – including jetskis and boats – and wakeboards and waterskis upstairs. “We even have a selection of entry-level scooters and motorbikes for commuters or youngsters. And Lambretta are back, and we have their latest classic-style scooter, too.”

Matt’s had his head-turning machines appear on the Gadget Show and in numerous major lifestyle magazines, particularly the Venom quad bike – a suped-up, 250cc street quad on polished 14-inch alloy wheels, for £3245.

“It’s for those who want to get around on something different, and don’t mind being the centre of attention,” explains Matt.

There really is something for everyone here, whether it’s a workhorse for the farm, mudplugging toy for the young petrolhead, the ultimate water toy, or just a completely different way of getting from A to B, regardless of the terrain in between.

And with almost all their vehicles being road-legal and driven on just a car licence, these aren’t just toys for those with a vast country estate, but genuine alternative methods of transport – albeit with the emphasis on fun. Most vehicles can even be modified for riders with disabilities.

“We’ve just opened another new premise,” adds Matt, “up at Tattershall Lakes Country Park, where we have a 45-acre lake with all the latest Seadoo jetskis, plus a quad track.”

And if you want to learn how to handle a jetski, Matt’s business partner is James Bushell, the current world champion jetskiier, so you couldn’t really be in better hands.

Oh, and James’ number when he competes is 158, if you were wondering about the company name...

Quadzilla are market-leaders in quadricycles and ATVs. The range includes everything from the £1250 R100 for 6-year-olds and upwards (although an adult would be hard-pushed to break it), up to the £4449 450 Sport enduro-style race machine.

But when Active visited, the X8 had just arrived in the country: this is Quadzilla’s flagship sport-utility machine packed with as much sophisicated tech as your car, sporting two-tone spoked alloys and featuring the firm’s most powerful fuel injected engine.

The X8’s 800cc, four-stroke V-twin fires up with a deliciously throaty rumble at the push of the starter button, which sends the LCD digital dash display into a frenzy of animated graphics and lights as it comes to life.

Here you can monitor the usual speed, revs, temperature and fuel and also see whether you’re in 2WD or 4WD, Low High or Reverse mode.

Acceleration is startlingly brisk, with just a nudge of the thumb throttle on the right bar.

The sensation of speed is heightened by the motorbike-style exposure to the elements, but the relaxed riding position is like no bike I’ve ever ridden; it’s insanely comfortable.

The two inline perches aren’t called King and Queen seats for nothing.

Although a helmet isn’t a legal requirement on the road, this tester highly recommends one, if only to avoid a mouthful of flies and watery eyes.

Adjustable gas-filled shocks front and rear mean you can set up the ride quality to suit your intended use, keeping cornering flat and stable on the road or so er on the trails.

The X8 will reach 70mph without much effort (other than holding on), and with 72Nm of torque at 6000rpm, this powerhouse will pull a Land Rover out of ditch with its standard-fitted winch or tow bar and switchable diff-lock.

Many quads are registered under an agricultural categorisation, restricting where they can be used.

But Quadzillas are all road-legal and fully homologated for the road so you can go from Tarmac to trail and back again without a second thought.

We found this machine as much fun as a dirt bike, as practical as a pick-up and as rugged as a Land Rover.

There are no flies on the X8. They’re all in my teeth...

Rich Beach

DETAILS

Quadzilla X8 4X4 V-Twin, £6399 Max power: 62bhp @ 6700rpm Max torque: 72Nm @ 6000rpm

CONTACT

www.158performance.co.uk or call 01778 341144

/// S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2 5 5

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Feature /// School sports

SES SHOOTING SUCCESS

Allison excels at Gateshead CHRIS ALLISON SURPASSED his expectations at the English Schools Athletics Championships in July at Gateshead stadium.

Chris, from Stamford School, was selected to run for a 25-strong Lincolnshire schools team at what is often dubbed the Junior Olympics for England.

The 800-metre competition was tough with Chris running in the last heat. Having led for a lap he was eventually pipped into fourth place, but

qualified for the semi-finals as one of four fastest losers with a time of 1min 59.4 sec.

Due to poor weather the semi-finals took place late in the evening and despite a great first lap Chris faded on the second and didn’t qualify for the final. However, it was a great achievement to get to the last 16 which sets him up with lots of confidence for the rest of the season and confirms his place in the top 25 800-metre runners in the country for his age group.

The SES Shooting Team, made up of pupils from both Stamford School and Stamford High School in years 11 to 13, had its own sporting triumphs during last term.

In the Country Life Small Bore Competition, out of 87 teams, the SES A Team (J Hudson, E Bremner, H Mintern, F Babbs, L Higgins) came eighth and the B Team (E Johnson, E Joyce, J Stops, S Taylor, E Fraser) came 18th, despite both teams having been disqualified from one aspect of the competition on a technicality.

The A Team came joint first for grouping and second for landscape and both teams scored highly in the nnap with the B Team taking first place and the A Team coming third. The B Team were, in fact, the highest placed B Team in the competition and won the Class B Salver.

The Imperial Schools Target Rifle Competition was held at the National Rifle Association, Bisley, at the beginning of July. The team of 10 captained by J Hudson worked really well together throughout the whole week, supporting and encouraging each other in all the matches.

Weather and ground conditions were not ideal: rain, wind, hailstones and even a storm on one a ernoon although we did see the sun for short periods.

The team acquitted itself well throughout the week and had three special highlights.

The first was winning the Bermuda Cup on the Wednesday - a team of six cadets beating Oakham, Uppingham and Oundle with an aggregate score over all three distances (300, 500 and 600 yards).

The second was Emily Joyce’s 16th place for her 600 yard shooting over two days of the competition, while the third highlight came on the last day with Joe Hudson’s outstanding performance in the Spencer-Mellish Cup, a competition for the best shot in each of the schools’ teams.

He scored an impressive 47 with 4 V-Bulls, out of a possible maximum of 50 with 10 V-Bulls achieving 9th place out of 43 entries.

New scheme gives young riders a helping hand THE RECENTLY-LAUNCHED Born and Bred Young Rider Support Scheme has signed up eventer Laura Keeley and showjumper Stacey Nichols.

The aim of the scheme is to give a helping hand to a group of talented young riders in a variety of ways, and provide a support network for young riders and a range of contacts of experienced riders who are available to pass on advice.

Oakham-based Patrick Latham, the brains behind the scheme, said: “We hope that a

young rider support network will develop, giving young riders a helping hand, however small, and aiding them in their efforts to reaching their goals.”

Laura is mentoring Ellie Luffman and Jess Butler from Lincolnshire, while Stacey is working with Tori Twite (pictured) and Lewis Angier from Cambridgeshire. These riders were selected from more than 200 people who applied for a place via the Born and Bred Clothing website.

Patrick added: “The riders are able to go to their mentor for advice, receive reduced price private lessons, and generally have a bit of a hotline to someone who has gone down a similar path to them but is maybe a few years ahead.”

For further information about joining the scheme, contact charlesjamesfox@ hotmail.co.uk or visit the website at www. charlesjamesfox.com/ Young-Rider-Support-Scheme

/// S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2 5 7

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NEXT MONTH Starting gun With the shooting season getting underway, we look at the issues facing the sport, plus take a look at the latest tweedy fashion Cricket season review Who were the winners and losers in this rainy cricket season?

Rugby, football and hockey How are our local teams faring now the season is in full swing Pregnancy fit How to stay fit and healthy during pregnancy Contents subject to late change

/// S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2 5 9

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Roundup

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

// Hockey Rutland Men

Rutland Mens Hockey club’s had a decent under 18 sixes tournament at Southgate Hockey Club, North London.

Fifteen teams took part, including three sides from the French Under 18 squad, playing in showery conditions.

Rutland’s performances could be described as patchy, as the lack of recent match practice showed with some good play interspersed with basic mistakes.

Despite this inconsistency, they managed to finish top of their eight-team group, with three wins over Litchfield ‘B’ (7-0), Southgate ‘B’ (4-3) and France ‘A’ (2-1), and four draws against Peterborough ‘A’ (1-1), West Herts (2-2), Sudbury ‘A’ (2-2) and France ‘C’ (2-2).

In the semi-final against Colchester. Rutland fell behind early on to a well-taken short corner, but a brilliant individual effort by Johnny Ashwin brought them level. With two minutes to go, Colchester were awarded a debatable short corner that was converted to give them a 2-1 victory.

In the third-place match was against Sudbury ‘A’, Rutland gained an early two goal advantage through Marcus Parsons and Owen Evans and looked good for a comfortable win. But they sat back and handed the initiative to Sudbury, who took advantage with three goals to run out 3-2 winners.

Despite the disappointment of the two late defeats, this was a useful run out for the team who finished in a creditable fourth place.

Rutland Team: Olly Carrick, Ben Harford, Johnny Ashwin, Harry Robertson, Tom King, Owen Evans, Marcus Parsons, Scott Perry, Richard Pollock.

How come my first-half hat-trick’s not here?!

Are your club’s star performances not here? Then make sure next month you e-mail Active with club reports and scores, and we’ll put them in.

Email: steve@theactivemag.com

Rutland Ladies There were plenty more goals in the Rutland Ladies summer hockey league in Uppingham, with Spalding cantering to victory over a Melton side hampered by player unavailability, and Bourne Deeping’s 1st X1 outgunning Rutland’s u16s side.

Rutland’s 1st X1 meanwhile played out an entertaining game with the previously unbeaten Market Harborough side, eventually running out 3-1 winners.

Anne Pollock was among the goals as usual, but at the other end, new players Nic Cage and Kerry Rough both impressed.

// Cricket Laxton Park v Warboys

After an enforced month’s break from cricket, Laxton Park managed to hold their nerve in reaching a hard-earned victory over Warboys.

Laxton have been sitting fairly comfortably in mid-table but a loss would have left the Park looking perilously over their shoulder.

For Warboys, a win could have taken them in to the top two if other results went their way.

With a forecast of sunshine all day, and on a track which always seems to throw up more surprises in the second innings, Warboys opted to bat first.

This decision appeared to be vindicated as Warboys openers James Wright and Tom Skidmore set out their stall with some crushing boundaries, and raced to 50 but were finally pegged back with a couple of quick-fire wickets from the impressive Jacob Howe.

James Wright (22) was clean bowled by a yorker and he was soon followed by Daniel Wright who was caught on his stumps plumb LBW. Jacob Howe mopped up the tail end to finish with figures of 4-39; the pick of the bowlers along with Howe senior (3-36).

Set a challenging 174 to win on what was to prove a decent pitch to bowl on Laxton were ‘given’ the 12 overs that Warboys did not use when batting.

Opening batsmen Robert Howe and Adam Renton created a solid base on which Laxton could build their innings as they took Laxton to 40 before Howe was caught off the bowling

of Latchford. With the score at 70 for 1 from 21 overs, the complexion of the game changed though as Phil Dobbs fell, soon followed by the pick of Warboys’ bowlers Matthew Lavender (3-36) picking up the wickets of Jacob Howe and Woody Hodson for no runs.

Captain Will Kinnear took Laxton’s total past 100 with a few lusty blows but it was left to Renton (56) and James Ireland to see off the remaining 60 runs and saw Laxton to victory with 14 overs to spare.

Barnack v Uppingham

An opening partnership of 141 from Steve Best and Ajaz Akter steered Barnack to a big win at Uppingham.

Best (65) and Aktar (70) set up the visitors’ 120 run victory, with slow left arm bowler Scott Green (6 for 54), the only bowler to prove effective on a good batting wicket as Barnack set a first innings total of 226 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 43 overs.

George Scott was the only other wickettaker for Uppingham with one for 21 runs.

Max Collins top scored with 28 as Uppingham collapsed 106 for 9 after 34 overs, with good bowling from Barnack skipper Steve Best (2 for 17) and Mohammed Yaseem (4 for 44).

Ketton v Oakham girls

The inaugural Ketton v Oakham girls cricket match saw Ketton batting first, scoring 154 runs with contributions from Lizzie Mainstone (20), Isabelle Forster (15) and Claudia Dooley (13).

The younger girls (Poppie Webb, Georgie Miles, Lucie McCrone and Natasha Bolton) provided support, while the best of Oakham’s bowling came from Mathilda Gough (0 for 17), Jenny Sennett (0 for 14) and Jessica Carfax (1 for 9).

Oakham finished on 44, with the best of the Ketton bowling coming from Lizzie Mainstone (2 for 2) and Claudia Dooley (2 for 6). A re-match at Ketton is set for later this month.

Ketton: Lauren Bullimore, Isabelle Forster, Lizzie Mainstone, Claudia Dooley, Emma Wilson, Lucie McCrone, Georgina Miles, Poppie Webb, Natasha Bolton.

Oakham: Sophia Moore, Maddy Stellmacher, Georgia Hallgarth, Holly Smith, Jenny Sennett, Mathilda Gough, Charlotte Czarnota, Jessica Carfax.

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// Golf Rutland County GC Olly Huxley (15) from Rutland County Golf Club, won the U16 category competition at the Leicestershire Boys Age Group Championship at Glen Gorse Golf Club.

Huxley who plays off 6.6, shot a gross 75 (net 67). Steve Lowe, from Rutland County said: “He is tipped as a future club champion and will surely improve steadily as he gets stronger.”

Margaret Rippin won Rutland County’s Ladies Mid Summer Trophy. She scored 37 points, beating Carol Westcott by a single point. Jackie Cole was two points further back in third.

The Ladies August Stableford was won by Michelle Powell on 33 points with Pat Wright second with 32 points and Kathy Horner third with 31.

The club has appointed Jasen Barker as the new club professional. Barker, from Cottesmore, was the pro at Milton GC, but comes back to the club after 17 years away.

In the Seniors Summer Knockout, Dick Wray beat Gordon Young 5 and 4, to reach the semi-final stage.

Toft GC Toft ladies dressed in pink took part in a special Breakthrough Breast Cancer competition..

Acting captain Sandra Wildmore announced a total of £208 had been raised from sale of charity pins, raffle tickets, auction and donations and thanked all the ladies who had donated raffle prizes and cakes for halfway house refreshments.

The overall winner was Lisa Gauci, winning on countback from Anne Barrett and Hayley Hunt, with a total of 39 points.

The Limestone trophy at Greetham Valley is a medal competition played off white tees for players with a handicap of scratch to eighteen.

Playing on the Lakes course in very humid and sticky conditions Andrew Queen got off to a bit of a nightmare start by bogieing the first three holes. Ten handicapper Andrew had enough confidence in his abilities to be able to put it all behind him and start again on the fourth.

He parred eight of the next ten holes and birdied the other two to put himself on just one over.

After a visit to the pond on the par three fourteenth resulted in a double bogie it was time to regroup again.

Two birdies followed on the next two tough par five holes and a par on hole seventeen were enough to get him back to one over. A slight miscalculation cost him dearly on t he eighteenth when he dropped another shot. Andrew finished two over gross and won the competition with a net sixty four.

He said that the silly mistakes on the

fourteenth and eighteenth were regrettable but if anybody had offered him a score of two over at the start of the game he would have snapped their hands off, Andrew was cut to nine.

Gary Graham off fifteen took second place with a hard fought net sixty six and was cut to fourteen.

Five handicapper Ryan Tarrant was in the bridesmaid spot for the second week running, after being pushed back to third on count back last week, he finished in the same place, again on count back, with a fantastic seventy one, net sixty six. He took the lowest gross and was cut to four.

Greetham Valley GC The Greetham Ladies lined up to compete for the Gill Christie trophy on the Lakes course in between the men’s competition.

The wind had started to gust a little to add to the hot and sticky conditions. Former Ladies President Beryl Crosland off seventeen came in with terrific net 73 to win the trophy on count back.

She was nine over for the front nine but got her round going again on the back nine. An error on the par four eighteenth cost her a triple bogie and this meant that it would have to go to count back, Beryl took the win courtesy of a better back nine. Lesley Young off nineteen is improving week on week and had yet another strong showing.

Lesley lost out on count back but she was otherwise very pleased with the way that she played and planned her way around the course, she is still on target to get her handicap down to eighteen by the end of the year.

Ladies Captain Eileen Pare was third with a net seventy four.

Jordan Burdall won the Rutland Times Junior open for the third time in a row with a brilliant gross 71.

This was Jordan’s toughest win, as he broke the shaft on his driver after hole two and had to rely upon his three wood for the rest of the competition.

Jordan didn’t get off to the best of starts with a double bogie on the first, he dropped a further two shots when he bogied the eight and ninth but they were his only bad holes.

He had five birdies and ten par’s to take the win and see his handicap cut to point five.

Junior Captain Ryan Tarrant was second with a gross 78 pushing James Rowe down to third place on count back.

Neil Harris won the seniors August Medal at Greetham and the lowest gross with a splendid one over 73, net 67. Neil, off six, was just one over after nine with three bogies and two birdies, he went on to shoot a level par back nine to win division one and was cut to five.

Derek Coombes was second with a net 67.

Third place was settled on count back, Brian Rippin took it with a net 68 from Robert Birch and Robert Gray.

The seniors continued their good form in matches by trouncing Humberstone Heights

six-nil on the Lakes course. Captain Peter Macdonald Pearce said that it was their best all round team performance so far this year.

Burghley Park GC Burghley Park’s B team beat Greetham Valley 4-2 in a relegation battle in the South Lincolnshire Golf League.

Results: Barrie Dawson & Craig Matthews won 4&3, Alex Cole & David Jackson won 5&3, Andy Carr & Joe Regis lost 5&4, Dave Marsden & Cliff Harper lost 5&4, Dan Carr & Mark Yarham won 5&4, and Tom Hutton & James Bust won 5&4.

Burghley C took on Toft C team with ex-Toft captain Keith Duff the home playing captain for the day. It came down to the final match, with Burghley’s Barrie Dawson and Mike Beaumont’s 4&3 victory resulting in a 3-3 draw.

Results: Keith Duff & Mick Chapman lost 2 Down, Brian Churchill & Chris Townshend won 2&1, Paul Redfern & Alan Cole won 3&2, Richard Cook & Bill O’Driscoll lost 3&2, David Devlin & Stuart Ward lost 5&3, and Barrie Dawson & Mike Beaumont won 4&3.

// Football Stamford Northwich Victoria fans were faced with a dilemma – boycott the game in protest at club chairman Jim Rushe and their dismay at how they believe he is ruining their club or travel 40 miles to support their team. In the end only 30 or so made the trip, roughly the same as travelled from Stamford.

Stamford’s line up surprised most supporters with Gary King on the right and Jordan Smith in the middle. They combined well after only three minutes but King’s cross just evaded Sam Mullarkey.

Stamford were dominating the play but Vics wasted their first chance when King lost the ball on the edge of their penalty area.

They moved the ball upfield quickly but Joseph Guest tried to side foot the ball home with time to do much better.

The ball was quickly back to the other end for Vics to concede a corner. Richard Jones rose way above the defence but his header cleared the bar.

With only 15 minutes gone Stamford were forced to make an early change, when Jack Cotton replaced Tom Batchelor. Despite being well on top, Stamford weren’t creating chances and the first test on the keeper came from Paul Mayo forcing Gary Spotswood, on loan from Vauxhall Motors, to tip the ball over the bar.

With 34 minutes gone, a long ball forward was chased down by Christopher Luby. As Continues over >

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Roundup

// Football < Continued from over brought him down. tried to go round Elliott Shilliam the keeper brought him down. The only doubt was the colour of the card but fortunately it was yellow. Lee Dodgson converted the spot kick.

Two minutes later King was brought down inside the box but the referee gave a free kick outside. King took the kick which was saved

by Spotswood. The ball looked as if it would drop behind him but it landed on the bar.

As play moved into stoppage time, Mayo took a very quick throw over the Northwich defence for an alert King to reach just before Spotswood and steer the ball past the keeper.

Blackstones Blackstones picked up three points from their first game of the league season.

Stones led Irchester 3-1 at half time thanks to an own goal and two from Michael Nelson. and that was how the score stood at full time.

Cottesmore Stapenhill travelled to Cottesmore for the season opener on Saturday afternoon.

For Cottesmore the game represented the start of a new era with Joint Managers Steve Duffy and Gary Drake in the dugout and a new look playing squad.

Cottesmore had Panter, Gordon, Sheppard, Wells and Harrison all unavailable for a number of reasons and it was the visitors who dominated early proceedings as Cottesmore.

The visitors finally broke the deadlock on 30 minutes, but Cottesmore’s response was instant, a neat through ball from Jamie Mckay caused havoc in the visitors defence and with the visitor’s goalkeeper and defender colliding Harry Stannard was left with the easy task of rolling the ball into the open net.

The introduction of Archer-Fern changed the approach of Cottesmore’s attack as the visitors struggled to handle his pace. He set up a number of chances before blazing over himself with the goal at his mercy.

Unfortunately Cottesmore couldn’t find the breakthrough and had to settle for a point, which come the end of the season could prove to be very valuable against a side expected to be challenging at the end of the season.

// Athletics Stamford’s Paul Lunn claim third place in the 40-44 age group for Great Britain at the 2012 Vitoria-Gasteiz ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championships in Spain.

Lunn, from Stamford Tri Club set the fastest

bike split of the day for his category and the second fastest run on his way to a total time of 6h18m57.

Stamford Tri Club member Diane Parperis also competed in Spain, taking a top 20 finish in her 45-49 age group with a total time of 8h51m14.

// Angling Oakham Angling Club Oakham Angling Club fished their annual Midweek Invitation match on Fen Lake Fisheries at Metheringham, near Sleaford.

Eighteen anglers managed to catch 1,600lb of fish at an average of 88lb each with eight weights over 100lb.

The match was won by James Daymond, who managed 140lb 09oz from peg 4. Second, off peg 10, was Paul Smith with 130lb, and third was Bob Burton with 126lb 15 oz.

// Cricket extra

(16no) and Matt Green (26no) saw Barrowden home inside 22 overs with Green smashing four boundaries to calm any nerves.

The win was Barrowden’s fifth straight victory - and fourth in the league - making promotion a real possibility. Skipper Chris White said: “It’s in our own hands. We’ve been saying for weeks now that we just have to keep playing our cricket and see what happens.

“At the moment we’re all playing really well as a team with everyone contributing and it’s great to go on a winning run but we’ve got plenty of tests still ahead. We know what we need to do if we’re to go up, it’s down to us to make sure it happens. I’ve no doubts that if we keep going as we are right now, we’ll be in division six next year.

“The game at Long Sutton was fantastic from start to finish, played in really good spirits. Matt Green bowled beautifully and deserved more wickets and it was fitting that he hit the winning runs too. Sam Hodson took two brilliant slip catches and we made batting really difficult for them with our fielding and bowling. Then when we batted we knocked it off professionally, can’t ask for much more than that.”

Wakerley and Barrowden

Bourne

Wakerley and Barrowden continued their promotion chase in Division 7 of the Rutland League with an eight-wicket win at Long Sutton 2nds.

Matt Green was the star of the show, justifying their decision to bowl first by removing three of the top four, including two in successive deliveries, followed by the dangerous looking Coote in the next over to leave the home side on 25-3.

Jonny White picked up the wickets of Reeves in the very next over and things were looking very bright for Barrowden. Green picked up a fourth wicket, and Chris White introduced himself into the attack and picked up 3-5 from 4 overs.

Steve Chivers also claimed a wicket, reducing Long Sutton to 48-9. However, a last wicket stand of 27 between Munson and Hunt frustrated Barrowden who had looked like being set a target below 50, but when Munson was eventually caught by Fraser Wright off Jonny White for 29 - the highest score of the innings and only the second Long Sutton player to make double figures, the home side were all out for just 75 inside 30 overs.

Matt Green was the pick of the Barrowden attack, finishing with 4-18 from 11 overs.

Jonny White finishing with 2-20.

In reply, Barrowden set about chasing down their small target professionally, with Steve Chivers and Jonny White looking to take advantage of any poor deliveries and reach the target comfortably.

That plan was going well until Chivers was adjudged lbw to Munson for 9, and Sam Hodson soon followed, caught and bowled by Baker for 4, leaving them 35-2, but White

A four wicket win at Finedon Dolben saw Bourne stay close to Peterborough Town at the top of the Rutland Sunday League.

Finedon Dolben won the toss and decided to bat first but Bourne’s attack was soon making inroads with Xanti Xipu claiming the wicket of opener Simon Brett for a duck. Tom Brett (9) followed soon after, again caught by Edwards, this time off the bowling of Tom Dixon.

Greig Hofbauer (33) and Sean Davis (26) offered more resistance but Finedon were all out for just 164 with Dixon finishing with three wickets for 38 off eight overs, and Tom Bentley taking four for 35 off nine overs.

In reply, Ben Stroud hit an unbeaten 51 and Edwards added 42 as Bourne reached 165-6 in 45.1 overs.

Bourne’s Sunday 1st XI’s remaining games begin with a home tie against Oundle on Sunday and include Uppingham Town (Sept 2), a trip to Nassington on September 16 and a potential title decider at Peterborough on September 9.

How come my five-fers not here?!

Are your club’s performances not here? Then make sure next month you e-mail Active with club reports and scores, and we’ll put them in.

Email: steve@theactivemag.com Stamford Bels

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// Picture special

Above

Greetham Senior Open winners

// Football extra Stamford Bels made Langtoft United work all the way for their three points, despite losing 3-1 and it was the Stamford side that struck first, scoring in the opening 10 minutes.

The away side broke quickly and Paul Cramp rounded Langtoft keeper Robbie Virgin to slide home Bels’ first goal of the season.

United responded with good, positive football but found a stubborn Bels backline tough to break down until just before half-time when a long throw from Andy Ellis was headed home by Phil Gadsby.

Ellis, Chris Joiner and Dan Jarman all had chances after the break but it was not until the

Right

Greetham’s Fraser Denholm

70th minute that Ellis managed to find a way through, dribbling past several players before firing in from edge of the box.

Tom Glindon sealed the win with Langtoft’s third as Bels began to tire late on.

Langtoft boss Ben Martin said: “Local derbies are always hard and Bels worked their socks off.

“We did not play our best football but the main thing is that we the three points. We must improve for Saturday’s game at King’s Lynn.”

The result made it two wins from two matches for Langtoft in the Peterborough and District League’s First Divisin this season. Bels are still looking for their first point after two games.

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25/06/2012 02:02

Photography: Nico Morgan

Feature /// Get involved

Have you got some great photos from your club or sport?

Or are you a budding photographer? Either way, send in your photographs to editor@theactivemag.com and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do our best to get them in Active /// S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2 6 5

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Feature /// Stalwart

Frank Hayes DI R ECTOR OF CR ICK ET AT O A K H A M S C H O O L

‘WHEN THE HEADMASTER EXCLAIMED HE WAS SORRY FOR BEING LATE, BUT THE CLARET WAS MAGNIFICENT, I KNEW IT WAS THE PLACE FOR ME’

Words /// Steve Moody

F

RANK HAYES HOLDS the distinction of being one of the very few England cricketers to score a century on debut, with 106 against the West Indies at The Oval in 1973. But he’s just as proud of the legacy of years spent as director of cricket at Oakham School, even though he had no clue about what the role entailed when he first applied.

He says: “When my wife rather threateningly announced that I would apply for the positions of physics teacher and director of cricket at Oakham School, it was with some trepidation that I set off for the interview some 13 years ago.

After all, where on Earth was Rutland, never mind Oakham?

“We approached the outskirts of Oakham and my spirits were lifted as magnificent scenery unfolded. And when the director of studies appeared clutching a gnarled old hockey stick and wearing a suit from Savile Row with green flash pumps, I knew that Oakham School meant what it said about a balanced education.

“I’d been mightily impressed and when the then headmaster, Tony Little, exclaimed “I am seven-and-a-half minutes late and do apologise but the claret was magnificent”, there was no doubt in my mind that Oakham was the place for me.”

In the last decade or more Oakham School has experienced an unprecedented period of success on the sporting front and boasts five professional rugby players, including three internationals. Five former pupils stride the professional cricket arena, including England player Stuart Broad and Crista Cullen (who Frank interviews in this issue), played for Team GB at hockey in the Olympics.

Frank says: “It’s been a privilege and a pleasure to watch an extraordinary group of people achieve the heights of excellence.”

Even though he taught Broad from the age of 11, Frank modestly refrains from saying he coached him, preferring the phrase “assisting him with his cricket development”.

But it’s not just the school and developing its sporting stars that Frank relishes. He is a big fan of the town itself.

He says: “In the Wheatsheaf, it doesn’t take long before sport is the main topic of conversation. One regular has seen the very best play over the years and detests all forms of gimmickry in sport, in particular the over-analytical coaching and commentary, and what he thinks about Kevin Pietersen’s attitude just cannot be printed!”

“The Grainstore, too, is full to the seams on big match days and, with the thriving cricket and rugby clubs, it is clear that Oakham undoubtedly takes its sport seriously.”

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