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I was asked to enter this event by a friend of mine as he had completed it last year, so me being me I thought ‘why not?’ as it was on the doorstep and not too badly priced to enter. Mind you the doubts had been creeping in after a conversation with Mr King during parkrun relating to what lies towards the end of the event…

So the day arrives and firstly I think to myself ‘where has the sun gone?’ as all I see is rain. To this then ‘what will be the best running gear to wear?’, I decide to pack a quick bag with plenty of choice and head off. On arrival to the event I firstly see Ian and Jayne both of whom have completed it before, and start to enquire about the dreaded hill. I then collect my number and get ready for the event. As the race draws closer we assemble at what was the train station, where I see Ray and Sam; luckily both have completed the race before too and Ray is able to give us a good guide as to where the run takes us, which is always a bonus.

Race time we all line up as I jump off the platform. I move further to the back as there is no way I want to be near the front. The race briefing starts then the count down begins, the hooter sounds then away we go, all 100 runners. I start off running with Chris and taking it steady, I see Sam up ahead but all I keep thinking is keep some energy back for the hill, the humidity starts to increase, making it harder to breathe, but I carry on.By about 1 mile the first water station I take the opportunity to grab one, and try to take a drink, from which I end up wearing it as it goes up my nose down and down my top!

I continue on and by about 2.5k I lose Chris, so I now look ahead and try to see who I might be able to catch. As the course reaches just over half way you veer off into the fields, me being super tall and all I lose sight of anyone as the rape seed plants are taller than me! I hear foot steps behind, so I know I’m going the right way, the guy behind eventually catches me and as passing says its getting warmer to which I agree. Then a little hill appears and I start thinking to myself this must be it, but it isn’t. Then my watch beeps to say I’m getting closer to the finish and in my head all I’m thinking is only a parkrun left to go. I see another marshal up ahead he says ‘keep it going, now long now’ and ‘only a few steps up ahead’.

‘This must be it’ I think to myself. I continue to power on up the little incline, then down the little slope, to be greeted by another marshal and I then look to the right and there it is, Mount Everest or so it seems! I shout to the marshal ‘what’s this?’ and she just giggles and says sorry. The next decision is the hill or stairs, I opt for the hill and start to run, I catch the guy in front and he spurs me on,.I continue to try and run up the hill/ mountain, it then turns to the right and proceeds to climb. It’s at this point the hill wins, I’m wondering where my safety rope is hidden as I start to slip slightly.

Once at the top it takes me a couple of seconds to catch my breath, then the final approaches. Luckily this is a slight downhill, which is always good, as the finish line approaches I power on and complete the 6.5 miles in a time of 58mins 27, which I was pleased with.

By Mark Chapman.

https://racebest.com/results/zft44?fbclid=IwAR26cK2-KqYVebH_IUH4XYHnWJcMI7Ejt-taV1PhVPatkbXPOVCh_28kBeg

 

The day had come. After some build up events including Harrier runs in Manchester and London, the big one was here, the 35^th running of the Melmerby 10k Road Race.

This had added excitement as it was Dave Walker’s second attempt of the year to achieve the golden prize of a sub 40 minute 10k, having so cruelly just missed out earlier in the year at the other prestigious event, the Dishforth Dash, with a time of 40:12.

For my part, I was just happy to be there with the chance to witness history being made having resigned myself sometime before to the stark realisation ‘You’ll never beat Dave Walker’.

The journey down in the team bus was pensive as we both tried to make small talk to take our minds off the enormity of the occasion ahead.

After a short and minor panic that we may have missed our turn off, we were there and being directed into a field car park, which was a short walk from the village hall where our numbers, race chips and destiny awaited.

As we collected our numbers I thought of other Harriers legends, such as Wood (M), Raine (B) and found myself asking the question, what would Glaister (T) do now? We both went for a pre-race wee.

After a short warm up where we pretended (or at least I did) to know what I was doing, we were at the start line. A quick manly handshake for good luck and we were off.

Without a race plan, I quickly decided that I’d run with Dave and try to maintain his 4 minute kms for as long as I could.

As per most of my races the question in my head soon changed from ‘I wonder how long I can keep this pace up?’ to ‘I wonder if I’m going to finish?’ all too quickly and after just 3km the thought of maintaining 4 min km for me was gone and from there on Dave gradually disappeared into the distance.

The course was not as flat as we’d both hoped. Not hilly but undulating, and that, coupled with the wind and the heat made it a tougher run than I’d anticipated.

That said, the villages we ran through, Melmerby, Wath and Sutton Howgrave, were very pretty, with some enthusiastic supporters which kept me going as my pace slowed.

The finish was a welcome sight, as I finished with a distinct lack of flourish and Dave wandered across.

So…. Had he done it?

Unfortunately not.

Another great effort and a close thing but 23 seconds too slow:

 

Next time Dave…..

Snazzy medal though:

‘M’ for Melmerby?

Or perhaps male menopause?

Barbara thought it was a ‘W’ and said I was a complete ‘Winner’, at least I think that’s what she said.

By John Haycock and Dave Walker

 

Ravenscar Half Marathon….. 19th May 2019

I’ve thought about this event a few times before but never got around to running it….. So 2019 was going to be the year, which unfortunately clashed with a club race… The plan was that myself and “BILLY” were off to do this… But I kept pursuing fellow Harriers to join me… Eventually I managed to in the name of Steve Forman.

So the morning came and all the travelling plans were in place… The morning weather reports said cloudy and showery…. so put the appropriate clothing on……. which turned out to be the total opposite, a very warm one indeed. Ravenscar would take around 1 hour 25 minutes to get there so set off in good time. It’s been a while since I’ve travelled over the moor roads, which I used to every morning for a while when working over at the early warning system….. at Fylingdales. We had the postcode set into the Satnav and one called ‘just follow’ which took us though a place Sandsend (which would be a nice seaside stop in the future ?????).

Once back on track and realising we had just driven around in a nice little circle, driving over to Ravenscar the roads can be like a rollercoaster which could be a little hairy if not paying attention….. We arrived thinking we would be early…. But no, got there perfect timing, just ahead of all the others turning up so parking the car was great, no problems. We collected our numbers and Steve bought us a nice coffee. The headquarters and registration were in the village hall and side gardens. The event was run by the Scarborough Mountain Rescue from this area. Steve and I treated ourselves to a new buff from them which I thought ‘in this heat ???’

All sorted ready for the start, lots of eager runners gathered. There were going to be two events A half marathon, and a 10k which started 30 minutes after us…. so after short briefing we were off… The plan was to take it easy for the first half, no pressure just enjoy this new event. We ran down the coastal paths and across, picking up an old railway line. It was about 9 miles running down this way, through lovely woodlands which did make a nice difference to the temperature… Once at the turning point we found out the first half was a lot easier and than second !!!! A fellow runner did warn us what was coming up. Heading back, the views were great. Trail running is beautiful at times!!!!!

Then the real fun started, HILLS and STEPS or you could call them LADDERS!!!!! Keeping sensible about things and watching our footing we pushed on up the coastal paths taking turns pacing each other.

With about 3 miles to go Steve started to pick up the pace and we passed a few more runners. The heat was starting to catch up with me and my back started to ache again in the place I’ve been having problems …. But I’m not to go there… old age must be catching up ??? I said to Steve ‘keeping going and I’ll see you at the end’.

We didn’t have long to go to the finish, just a couple of little sharp inclines and a little push to the line…. phew finished….. time for a big drink of water…. That buff… I was glad of it… was like a towel around my waist. Grabbing a medal and drinks and a little chat to others we thought about heading back….. Was it going to be fish and chips from Whitby? WELL….. no, back to Guisborough to the trusty place #COSTA ….Parked up, small walk, been a while since here too !!! ( need to get out more ???? well not quite…) While walking to grab a coffee a young lad on his phone asked his mate about getting hold of his…… steroids… nice!! Put it down to culture (or “lack of ”) … and modern life.

So to finish. The trip out, a nice coffee and a muffin….. a rainbow muffin? … sorry no parmo…. Would I go back and run it again? Yes (maybe a great one for the Grand Prix next year????) Great event, great course and challenging in places. It may be different in the rain and wet but that’s the same for all events…. But The views – I can see why people love running – the moors, trails and coast.

Notes …. value for money …. Yes, travelling and parking all good. Event organisation… all ran smoothly. The heat did catch a few out, but all was in hand with the great staff and volunteers.

Just remember people: in warm weather keep hydrated (and that’s a note to myself!!!)

So here’s to the next adventure…… Ray out !!!!!

Results: http://www.srmrt.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/RC-Half-Marathon-Results-2019.pdf

 

By Ray Carmichael.

The Pier to Pier (South Shields to Roker, around 7 miles depending how many short cuts you can take) was one of the first races I did and remains a firm favourite. OK, it’s a bit up-and down, there are a lot of people doing it so at times there are bottlenecks and you have to slow down or walk a bit (not a problem for me but maybe would annoy some…) and as it’s a point-to-point you have to work out parking and buses etc, but these are small matters compared to the many outstanding features, as follows: –

1. You can’t get lost. Find your way to South Shields beach, turn right and run, keeping the sea on your left, until you see lots of people milling about waiting for you to finish so they can go home.

2. It starts and finishes on a beach. This may not be to everyone’s taste but I love to run along a beach; at least it’s mostly flat.

3. The goody bag for this race is right up there with the very best. As an added bonus, this year it included beer. Well, it did for about 5 minutes.

4. It is always a very sociable event, as there are always a lot of friendly Harriers (is there any other kind?) around. To meet up at the start and compare anticipated times (somewhere between 1 and 1 and a half hours was the accurate prediction from the conversation I was in) and share reviews of the toilet facilities is a good start to the day, and then at the end, by the time I finish, there are always loads of the speedy types around doing their best not to look pointedly at their watches but instead providing much-needed support and encouragement.

5. They usually pick a good day. This year was no exception – plenty of sun without being TOO hot and a lighter wind than usual.

6. The refuelling opportunities post-run appear endless – this year, the call of the fish and chips from Latimer’s, washed down by a Minchella’s ice cream proved irresistible again, but I jogged back past a number of very tempting eateries and might even try something else next year.

7. I normally get to see a couple of photos of myself in which a sympathetic eye (mine) might discern a trace of athleticism. Unfortunately, the photographers this year were unable to capture this; their fault, not mine. 😊

8. The organisation and marshalling are superb.

My own personal performance was marred by my unfortunate tendency to go off too quick. This does have the advantage that I can have a chat with a number of my fellow runners as they overtake me and quickly pull away; yes, Paul Frame and Dave Round, I am thinking of you. I did also think of having a chat with Sue Dobson as she was about to pass me, but it was on the beach with only about 200 metres to go so I thought: no, I’m not having this and was able to push her into a convenient rock pool before continuing to stagger towards the finish line. My new watch I bought myself for my birthday said about 1 hour 4 minutes which is around average for me. I understand that many Harriers were able to knock minutes off their previous best and there were some cracking performances so congratulations to everyone who took part in a great morning’s entertainment.

By Mike Wood:

Full Results: https://my4.raceresult.com/108808/results#1_94D641

Even more photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/SLBv4sByU9bee2NE6

 

The first race I ever entered was the Sunderland 10k in May 2017 and I returned the following year to have a go at the Sunderland Half so this year, after feeling very disappointed with my effort at the half, I was looking for a different event. My brother had spoken highly of the Raby 10k so I thought I’d give it a go.

Once a month, as a family we try to make sure we all get together and go somewhere. We call it Rudd’s Rambles. And when Marie saw there was a 5k race on, which she entered, a 1.2k fun run for the kids and free entry for participants and their families to the Raby gardens, Rudd’s Rambles became Rudd’s Runs for May with my brother and sister-in-law also entering the 10k, their kids entering the 3k and the old people coming along for a picnic after.

We arrived in a bit of a hurry, as we do everywhere we go with the 2 small people, fearing we’d be late for the fun run registration for Isaac, but made it in plenty of time. The sun was shining in a cloudless blue sky and it was hot, even at 9:30 in the morning. Isaac’s 1.2k fun run was the 1^st race of the day. There was a warm up for the kids, which he enjoyed, then we moved across to the start. The horn sounded and there was flurry of toddlers zig zagging all over the place, dragging their parents across the start line and around the course. Isaac smiled the whole way around, liked his finisher medal but was more eager to show his mam the jelly sweet he got at the finish line.

The 3k run was next to start followed by the 5k then it was my turn with the 10k. The only advice my brother gave me was to go steady on the 1^st lap of the 2 lap course to save some energy for the hill at the start of the lap.

I lined up with Matthew and the race began. The start funnel was just to the side of the road on bumpy long grass so I was eager to get on the tarmac for fear of turning my ankle on the uneven surface. But I quickly found that I’d started further back than I should have as I was soon clipping the heels of the runners in front. It was a trip back on to the grass to clear those in front. After a few hundred metres we passed a gate then ‘the hill’ came in to clearer view. Some runners were already rounding a bend and disappearing behind the trees as I started the climb. At 4.3% gradient it isn’t massively steep but it drags on for a kilometre so it’s still punishing. I tried to keep my form and pace consistent and peaked the hill feeling relatively fit. The road then dipped down before raising back up again and around some farm buildings before a lovely long, straight and gradual downhill part of the course sandwiched between fragrant rape seed fields and leading to the off road part of the lap, along a track through some woods.

This is where my personal duel with a lady from Darlington Harriers began. I crept past her on the climb through the woods and as the track turned back to tarmac and levelled, with Raby Castle to our right hand side, she crept back past me.

At the start of the second lap and at the bottom of the hill I overtook her again and this time my legs were telling me that I had ran up a hill as I reached the top. On the long straight to the woods the Darlington Harrier lady re-passed me and on the climb back through the woods I re-passed her. This time it was a race to the finish line so I pushed hard and stayed ahead over the line, passing a few more along the way. I also claimed a 10k race PB, 47:38 on a hot and hilly course, which I was extremely pleased with.

It was a well run event by Teesdale AC with a good medal at the finish, cake, a welcome bottle of water after running in the heat and an even more welcome can of McColl’s brewery (brewed in Evenwood) IPA. A day out that the whole family enjoyed.

Link to the results:

https://racebest.com/results/vrt7r

by Sam Rudd

I have taken part in the Sunderland City 10k on a couple of occasions, but this was the first time I have entered the half.

I arrived a little late and did not see many fellow Sedgefield Harriers; only Pete King (hard to miss at 6ft 5in) and Chris Lines who was involved in PR for the event.

My target was 1hr 38 but the heat, lack of long runs to prepare and quite a few beers on Friday night hampered my efforts. I was on target to 10 miles but at the bottom of the Roker Park Hill I knew that I was going to struggle from there on in, which I did finishing in 1hr 42. I had the words of an old rugby coach ringing in my head “Failure to prepare is preparation to fail”. Very apt.

There were some good runs from the Harriers which are summarised below:

41	Ben Smale	Male	HM-MO	Sedgefeld Harriers	01:25:35
67	Declan Munnelly	Male	HM-M40	Sedgefeld Harriers	01:28:22
270	Simon Cavey	Male	HM-M40	Sedgefeld Harriers	01:42:56
386	Peter King	Male	HM-M50	Sedgefeld Harriers	01:46:31
596	Ian Spencer	Male	HM-M50	Sedgefeld Harriers	01:54:24
1028	Sarah Horner	Female	HM-FO	Sedgefeld Harriers	02:18:19

There were three in the 10K also (not seen Gary Auston for a while good to see him back running):

148	Gary Auston	Male	10K-M40	Sedgefeld Harriers	00:46:21
995	Anne Gladwin	Female	10K-F40	Sedgefeld Harriers	01:02:07
1266	Jayne Freeman	Female	10K-F40	Sedgefeld Harriers	01:06:24

Results are copied from the website, note the spelling error which is not mine!

Views on the event:

Parking and Accessibility               Good (I found a free car park but not sure if all car parks are free on a Sunday)

Organisation                                      Very good

Baggage Store                                   Good to have a store very close to start and finish

Course                                                  Urban (buildings provided some useful shelter from the sun), lots of turns and hillier than I thought it would be

Weather                                              Hot – don’t have an official temp for the day but felt like 20 degrees plus

Cost                                                       High at over £30 but I felt it was fair bearing in mind the cost to host is likely to be high (road closures etc).

Goody Bag                                          Mixed; included a protein bar which despite my hunger was inedible and a fruit drink in a can (even though the contents were flat) which was not to my liking either.

This is my first race rundown which is passed on to Pete King for approval. Given his job, I have been panicking about my English. I have thrown in a few commas and semicolons but I have no idea if they are in the correct place! English was not my best subject at school.

By Simon Cavey

 

Editor’s notes: other than to correct a height error (6’5” not 6’8”) no other amendments were required 🙂; additional to the club spelling mistake in the results, the runner in position 386 also won’t actually be in the M50 category until next time…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer finally decided to make an appearance just in time for this beautiful run. Into its second year, this event had sold out many weeks ago. The run is advertised as 10miles (elastic tape measure!), 1080 feet ascent (didn’t we know it!), 1079 feet descent (glad of it after the ascent) and 600 runners .

A motley crew of Harriers had decided to take on the challenge. The start line in a corner of Maiden Castle’s many playing fields was buzzing on the morning, collection of numbers and memento t-shirt all well organised, just as long as you had your ID with you. The Redbull car made an appearance with a very large sound system and Scott trainers had also rocked up with some shiny new shoes which they were showcasing at this run.

Some of us had planned a social run (some more social than others), although once the gun sounded a number of Harriers went off like a rocket, keen to get past the bottle necks of the noisy bridge and the limbo under the bridge at the Rose Tree pub. The course is a beautiful run along the river and through the woods, which are chocablock with bluebells at this time of year, stunning scenery when I was able to lift my eyes from the path! I know that we ran to Croxdale Hall and Sunderland Bridge but otherwise I really am not sure where we went!!! Across fields, down paths, up paths, following the Trail Outlaw yellow flags and being pointed in the right direction by some lovely marshals.

Once we came back towards Maiden Castle and back over the noisy bridge the finish line was in sight! But as with all Trail Outlaws runs, there was a sting in the tail; we were guided to take a right turn to continue along the river, round the uni rugby pitches and then up Whinney Hill, but thankfully what goes up must come back down again and this time we were heading towards the finish line.

After crossing the finish line a spectacular medal was placed around our necks and we were pointed in the direction of our mug memento and big water bottles, big boxes of jelly babies, cola bottles, liquorice allsorts and chocolate raisins. A mug of water and several handfuls of sweets were just what the doctor ordered after the run!

All the Harriers finished with big smiles on our faces (nothing to do with the sweets we were consuming!) and a little bit of sunburn. Some fantastic times on a very challenging course. If you haven’t got yourselves down to a Trail Outlaws urban trail series event, you don’t know what you have been missing!!

By Emma Featherstone

 

 

 

Registration

Thanks to the trusty satnav I arrived at the tail of the queue trying to turn right into the car park at Prissick School. Having read the pre race instructions (brownie point) I turned left and parked easily in a residential estate without inconvenience to any residents.

Registration was outside the school building in a cool breeze and I was very glad of the top I’d brought “just in case”, though it did mean that I ran with my little backpack. Equipped with my little bracelet I then went inside to join the toilet queue which, though massive, moved steadily and I gained relief without embarrassment.

The Start

Outside I met Karen who always helps out at junior parkrun and we wandered down to the start, a 10 minute walk away. I spotted Rosie and Emma in the ever thickening crowd.  As we waited for the delayed start the organisers called for runners 6 and 9 to come to the front.  Wonder why?  Then they wanted numbers 68 and 86. A pattern was emerging, which is more than we did when the race started.  There was hardly room to shuffle feet as the crowd of 604 runners moved towards a tunnel.  “Watch out for the bollard” was the cry.  Bollard, all I could see was the back of the big bloke in front.  I was cursing the loss of time not realising ‘til the next day that my bracelet recorded the time as I crossed the start line and again as I crossed the finish. I am new to this though and technology is not my strongpoint.

The Course

The route is a figure of eight across both sides of the river using the contours to provide a varied course and terrain, through woods and open fields to a constant accompaniment of birdsong. We started by running through the trees on the north side of the river heading downhill then alongside the river before climbing towards the overflow car park of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust. After a bit more climbing we then went downhill towards the start point.

A faller

After crossing the Wear at Cox Green Bridge we came into the sunshine and climbed gently through a wood where an old guy in front of me crashed to earth. A couple of us checked him over but apart from a nasty scratch or two he was able to continue. His shirt had “Bosnia Jack” on the back. I met him at the end.  He was called Bill, was 70 and had just recovered from 2 broken ribs from his last fell run.

Still climbing out of the river valley there was a series of fields. This provided several opportunities to catch your breath as you queued to climb over a stile or go through a kissing gate.  I pointed out to a guy behind that, although it was a kissing gate, he was not to get his hopes up. His riposte was lost on the wind.

The new friend

On a level section I found myself either a couple of steps ahead or a couple of steps behind number 74. We ended up running together for the rest of the race.

We entered a wood which was single track with no chance to pass ‘til a steep downhill descent allowed us to fly past a group of runners before a very sharp right turn (or get very wet). We continued on levelish ground alongside the river before recrossing the bridge.

The finish

With less than 800m to go I was able to stretch out and pass around 20 runners. Less than 200m to go, turn right and there it was. No, not the finish but “The Hill”.  Walking, aching, panting up the thing I passed a few more then there it was – the finish in sight.  Run up the last bit of hill then a furious sprint trying to hold off someone behind.  We hit the line together.

Waiting to return my bracelet there were Emma and Andy with the turbopram together with Rosie. Bosnia Jack followed behind and we were able to have a chat. Looking at the results later I was delighted to see my new mate, number 74, was just 2 seconds behind me.

It was a great day, a lovely run as long as you don’t care about a PB. I came home and booked the Trail Outlaws’ Branches and Bays and the Penshaw 10K.  I’m on my way to Islay on the day of the Durham 10 Miles. Phew.

By John Marshall

Full results: https://urbantrails.co.uk/washington-results-2019.php

 

By Beth Raine and Paula Warwick

Beth:

If someone had said two years ago (before I joined the Harriers) that I would run a marathon, I would have laughed and said no way! Fast forward those two years and I’m stood in the pen with the thousands of other runners, waiting to set off for a journey into the unknown. Having been inspired by the efforts of fellow Harriers at Manchester three weeks before, it was now my turn to see what I could do.

Sure, I’d done the training runs with some amazing support of fellow Harriers (Tracy F, Ali, Alda, Sue D, Georgina and Paula) but could I go the distance and run 26.2 miles? I was about to find out.

With the plan to meet Paula at the mile 4 marker (we were starting in different zones), I was happy that we would run together and although at a pace considerably slower than Paula is capable of, it was going to be a good day out.

Paula:

8th October 2018, the post lady had delivered another magazine, presumably for Dave (CIBSE or Investors Chronicle!!!), I picked it off the door mat to see “in!”, I quickly looked at the name and realised it was for me, then it dawned on me, oh no, I started to shake and felt sick, this had happened once before. I opened the plastic wrapping just to clarify it was from London Marathon before I carefully thought how I’d break the news to Dave!

So, my training started with Rosie in RED January, then got progressively worse when I went back to work in March only running once a week and usually with a buggy. I managed to squeeze a couple of long runs in with Jane and Tracy Glaister as they trained for Manchester and I finished doing a 20 miler with Beth.

Thursday 25th April: we left Sedgefield for Essex, Dave had a stomach bug and Amy was full of cold, I wasn’t happy that I had to share a car with them both for fear of catching something, let alone the same hotel room…..and bed! 😤

Marathon Day, Sunday 28th April, 26.2 miles awaited me. From getting up that morning I couldn’t wait to get back into bed! Full of cold, twisty baby, sick husband, watch battery dead, ran out the house late (as ever these days) and missed the train! Eventually meeting Beth and Mark in Greenwich a few minutes before the pen closed. I thought I’d chance it and try get into the red pen with Beth so we could start together, the Marshal insisted on looking at my number, I gave him a quick look but he clocked it….I was a blue, I tried to act stupid but they made me leave, with very little time to get to the blue pen. Thankfully Beth and I had a plan, we’d both start at 10.48am, I’d run a minute a mile quicker ‘til mile 4 then stop under the balloon arch where she’d find me! Unfortunately I was too late in my pen, I started at 10.59am with the 7 hour pacer 😫.

Beth:

Well I arrived at mile 4 with no sign of Paula! I hovered for a minute, jogging on the spot, looking back down the field to see if I could catch a glimpse but to no avail. I decided to go on, but about 20 seconds later decided I hadn’t waited long enough so I jogged back! Still no sign, so I decided to carry on. Assuming she was behind me, I knew she’d catch me up at some point.

The course was absolutely amazing! I knew how privileged I was to be taking part in this iconic event. Having listened in awe to the experiences of others, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype and boy did it! There were crowds along the entire route and I mean crowds ten deep in places, with rallying cries of “you’ve got this” and “you’re amazing”! The noise was phenomenal.

Having seen Mark and Dave at mile 7 just after Cutty Sark and keen to find out where Paula was, with the news that she wasn’t far behind, I carried on.

The course was pretty darn flat and as I crossed onto Tower Bridge, I got real goosebumps as the imposing landmark came into view. I was really enjoying the atmosphere and I was feeling strong.

The miles were ticking over (my Garmin was beeping about half a mile earlier than the mile markers due to the weaving and the little trip back to see if I could spot Paula) and I was happy with my pacing. I was even happier when I got a hug from behind at mile 16 and it was Paula. We’d found each other!

Paula:

I ran as quick as I could, constantly dodging the walkers and fun runners in crazy costumes. I passed two rhinos, the 6.30 pacer, a man in a bomb disposal suit, the 6 hour pacer, a bloke running in ski boots, the 5.45 pacer, Jesus, another rhino and the 5.30 pacer.

I got to mile 4, I stood and waited with a lot of other runners who had the same plan. I was in two minds whether I should stop because I started so late but I said I would, so I did. After 10 minutes I felt I’d waited long enough and sure enough the 7 hour pacer was heading towards me. I ran on knowing Dave and Mark would be at Cutty Sark, mile 7. I spotted them and Dave shouted Beth was 8 minutes a head, I swore (a few times). I worked out that if I ran a minute a mile quicker than Beth and giving time for dodging the Rhinos, I would catch her about mile 16. I also thought it would give those at home tracking us some excitement. The chase began! Mile 15, I was bored, no one to talk to, no one to whinge at, no one to throw a paddy with (I missed Jane and Ray) then I spotted a white vest with blue band…I got closer. Before I put my arms around this woman I needed to make sure it was Beth…it was, I was so pleased.

Beth:

Canary Wharf loomed into view and we were having a great time!

Having tried to channel my inner Tracy G (whose metronomic pacing at Manchester was inspirational to watch), at mile 21 things started to unravel a little and my pace dropped off. I didn’t hit “the wall” just a wave of fatigue and a stitch that wouldn’t go away. The last 5 miles were tough and the sight of Big Ben was a huge relief! I wasn’t great company for Paula at this stage who seemed to know I wouldn’t be up for playing the alphabet game right then! But just being by my side, was a huge support.

Turning into Parliament Square and across to Birdcage Walk all seemed unreal. I’d watched this event on the television in the past and wondered what it must be like to be there, and here I was about to turn onto the Mall. Just in that moment I heard a massive scream of “BETH” in the crowds and saw Aileen with yards to go. Buckingham Palace to my left, The Queen Victoria Memorial in front and then a right hand turn down The Mall. Then with a final push (not quite a sprint finish), we were over the line!

Paula:

From there on we had a great race! No idea what time I finished, didn’t really care! Pleased to get the medal, Dave and Mark robbed the contents of my goody bag, Beth completed her first Marathon.

Beth:

I did it in 4:53:59. As I stopped my Garmin, 2 new announcements…my record marathon time and my longest run of 26.96 miles! All that weaving and turning back had racked up some extra mileage! Knowing we’d raised over £1500 (including Gift Aid) for FoSH made the extra distance seem all worthwhile!

What do I think about this race?

I know entry is ballot only and I know how hard it is to get in, but if you do and you get to run this event, you will have the most amazing experience! The organisation is second to none, the crowds were fantastic and the backdrop of London’s landmarks was the cherry on the top!

Whenever I speak to people about running I am at pains to point out that Mark is “the runner” in our house and that I am just “having a go”. The day after the marathon as I reflect on my performance; whilst I am not quite up to Mr Raine’s speed, I think I might have to start accepting that it is okay to call myself a runner now!

Paula:

When I got back to Essex, Amy greeted me with a snotty kiss, she wore her tee shirt with pride, I demolished a Chinese and thoroughly enjoyed climbing into bed!

Sue Dobson writes:

Track and field debut, 23rd April 2019

Following the Club track and field afternoon on Easter Sunday I was persuaded to give track and field a go. So on Tuesday evening I found myself back at the amazing track facility in Middlesbrough. Joined by Fay (Uphill), also on her track debut, we donned our numbers and made our way to the throws area. Our first event – the discus. As a coach I always used to stress to the young athletes to get a legal throw or jump, and so that was my main aim – to actually record a legal discus throw. I was the first lady to throw so took my place in the cage. My hands were freezing and the discus seemed very large in my somewhat small hand, but lets give it a go. Remembering Jane’s coaching tips from Sunday I went from high to low, slow to quick, and off it flew! It went straight and even reached the grass – a legal throw. I was so excited I didn’t hear the distance but I think it may have made double figures. My second throw was measured at 10.83m I think, so a PB. After Fay had thrown her second discus we decided to go to our next event – the 100m.

We arrived at the start area just as the official was asking for the competitors for the graded races. An eclectic gathering of athletes – all ages, heights, shapes and abilities. The official asked for anyone under 10. I was confused – there was no one that young in the group. 10 1, 10 2, 10 3…… Oh he was talking expected finishing times. Blimey, I’d better do a quick calculation. World record 9 point something….should I double it or triple it? I’ll guess at 25 seconds. As it turned out I didn’t need to worry as I was one of the last 10 athletes and we were asked to get into two groups for the last two races – the official said we could base it on age, height, hair colour – whatever we liked. So Fay and I lined up with two men with whom we didn’t appear to have any similar characteristics. I didn’t risk a proper crouched start (what is that called?) in case I couldn’t get up , so instead stood ready to give it my best. Thoughts of ‘go on the B of the Bang’ went through my mind – was that Linford Christie? Focus. And off we go. Run, breathe, stay in the lane, look for the finish line – blimey it’s over. I was not aware of anyone else but I was told I came third. I don’t know what my time was, but it is a PB that I am very proud of. What a buzz.

I made my way back to the stand. The verdict from Helen – “your hair was ‘very bouffant’!” Headband next time.

Fay went on to run a great 800m and we both agreed we would be back at the track to try some more events. There was a great atmosphere and support from the spectators and I would recommend that everyone gives it a go.

My discus result was 12th out of 14 and first (only) V50F
My 100m time was 17.85 so better than expected.

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Mark Raine writes:

Summer must be upon as the North Yorkshire South Durham Track & Field season has started – NYSD.org.uk for all the fixture information and results.

Having not attempted any track and field since my school days (other than the Harriers track day last year), I thought I’d venture down to Middlesbrough and have a go. The event I intended to try was the 1500m.  We’re all graded according to the time you give.  It’s all very informal as they call out times and you go into that group for a race.  I had absolutely no idea of my time but thought it might be wise to avoid racing against some of the very keen twenty somethings (at least I could bore them with having run at the old track at Clairville if needs be).  Fortunately Justin Cox was there so we hatched a plan to go in race 2 as it seemed a good idea.  The gun went off and the pace was furious to start with.  After a few hundred metres of very tight racing things seemed to settle down and a great race ensued.  The final 200m was very tough and I was glad the finish wasn’t any further away but I thoroughly enjoyed it.  Justin and I were both gasping for air at the end but smiling from ear to ear.

First track race over and having such a good time I entered the 200m race. It’s a little daunting when others are carrying blocks to the start but there was great banter amongst us Seniors to settle the nerves.  The officials are very good and will answer any questions you may have.  The groups are sorted again, with lanes drawn before each race, then before I know it I’ve run a bend and am now swaying towards the finish. Although a short distance I’m absolutely exhausted but I’ve had such a great evening and was lovely being able to cheer on the rest of the Harriers.

Well the previous week didn’t put me off and I’m back for more of the action (23/04/19). This week it’s the 800m and 100m events.  Got to be easier this week I tell myself as I arrive, the sun is out, it’s a lovely warm evening and the distances are shorter!  It was another good turnout from the Harriers and some great performances were put in by the Juniors who ran first.

The 800m is a short and tough distance but again I finish smiling having had some good battles throughout. The 100m seems to be a specialist event with many turning up just to run that race.  After a nervy start and some starting advice from the officials – must mention again how friendly and encouraging they are – I was ‘hurtling’ towards the finish.  It was at this point I’m thinking to myself how does Usain Bolt manage to smile and have time raise his arms in victory, as I was struggling to breathe and keep my style – if you can call windmilling arms,  a tongue hanging out similar to a dog on a hot day and lunge to the line like a toddler learning to walk, style!

Only 900metres run in one evening but I was exhausted.

Will I be back on the 14^th May? Most definitely a YES and I’m even going to try some field events.  It’s very welcoming, the atmosphere is great and it really caters for everyone.

 

Results: https://www.nysd.org.uk/