News Archives for 2011

Membership Subs due January.....

Membsership subs are due on the 1st January 2012 at a cost of £15.00 plus
£5.00 if racing for English Athletics. Please can all members complete the data protection section of the new form when paying their subs.

To download the current membership form just click one of the buttons below.

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Relay Newsletter Now Published

Heidi our resident newsletter editor has been hard at work to publish this quarter's edition, packed full of results, information and other bits!

Just click below to view it.

To help with your race planning here is November's information on future races within Hampshire (or as close as possible), that may be of interest.

DISTANCE	RACE	DATE	LINK
5KM	None to Note	-	-
5 MILES	None to Note	-	-
10KM	Tidworth 10km - Predominently a charity event this is in its 7th year and is a trail run across Salisbury Plain starting at Tedworth House. 10.45am, £10, trail, undulating.	6th	HERE
10 MILES	Lordshill 10M Road race - A popular event with runners from the Club boasting a PB potential course, friendly run and marshaled. 10am, road, flat, £10.	6th	HERE
1/2 MARATHON	Gosport Half - a must for anybody looking for a professionally run, flat PB potential course. This one has been going for years and is sometimes fully booked- road, flat, chip, 10am, £14. NB If booking on line use Run Britain not Runners World and you save a £2 booking fee!!	20th	HERE
FULL MARATTHON	None to Note	-	-
OTHER	Hell Down South Sunday - boasting the Hills of Hell and the Bog of Doom - this multi-terrain event about 11-12 miles'ish in length, is ran around the Long Moor Training area and is not for the faint hearted! Although quite expensive it is one race you will never forget - £30, 10am, multi-terrain, very hilly.	27th	HERE

 

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On Sunday 2nd October Romsey Road Runners and Southampton Athletics Club hosted the first CC6 race at Stoney Cross. Although there had been an unseasonably warm spell of weather leading up to the race, the course at the Kings Inclosure Stoney Cross still had plenty of deep mud to keep those hardened cross country runners happy. With an excellent turn out of club members from both clubs to marshall the race, the RRR were able to field a men and women’s team. While the three strong women's team was led home by Anni Dawes (see attached photo) in 13th place, followed by Penny Jennings in 19th and Heidi Williams in 33rd. For the Romsey men, Marc Balistrari (see attached photo) had a brilliant run finishing in 3rd place, with Jim Wright in 15th, Christopher Brown in 25th and Steve Reed in 36th. This first race of the 2011/12 CC6 season was won by Sue Sleath from Hardley and by Scott Edgington from Totton .

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A HUGE THANK YOU!!!

On behalf of Paul Burnage and myself, thanks to all those who turned out to marshal the CC6 race yesterday. Not only were we able to marshal the race but we also had two teams running. The weather was perfect although the going was surprisingly soft (i.e. very muddy) away from the forest tracks.

(David Page)

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On Saturday 17th September just four Romsey Road Runners sampled the delights of the Stockbridge 10k. Although it was the first time this event had been run, the race was very well organised and marshalled around a very pretty rural route which included a challenging little hill in the middle with a nice flat run back in along the Test Way to the finish. Keith Warwick finished in a very creditable time of 50:06, followed by Anna Duignan in 57:27, Gill Callus in 60:09 and Wendy Couper in 64:54.

On Sunday 18th September, Alistair Longworth put the disappointment of the Wye Valley Marathon behind him when he had to pull up at half distance by competing in the Farnham Pilgrim Trail Race, his 7th marathon this year. The race started at 9am and included a wide range of running surfaces including roads, trails, fields, tracks & sand located along and around the North Downs Way in Surrey. Longworth made a good start and was able to maintain a steady pace until about mile 17 – and after getting over ‘his wall’ he was able to pick up the pace for the last three miles and managed to put in a sprint finish to complete the course in 3:55:17. While Longworth enjoyed the Surrey countryside, Hannah White and Heidi Williams were taking it relatively easy in by competing in the Victory 5 in Portsmouth. On the day, White just had the edge, finishing in a time of 37:00 closely followed by Williams in a time of 37:28.
While most club members are satisfied with a challenging run through undulating countryside, Matt Hammerton headed to Hawley Lake in Farnborough to compete in the National Cross Championships triathlon. The completion kicked off with a ‘gentle’ 1500m swim followed by a 24km mountain bike ride, and was then finished off with a 10km run. Hammerton who always excels in these types of competition, finished in 14th place (and 3rd in age group) in a time of 1:50:24.

Finally, on Sunday 25th, eight club members headed to New Milton to compete in the New Forest Marathon and Half Marathon. Again Alistair Longworth was in action as he returned to the New Forest to try and crack his 26.2 mile personal best time which he set on this course eight years ago. Conditions were almost perfect with clouds to cut down the heat and a cooling shower at around 14 miles helped all the marathon runners. Longworth managed to finish the race in a new PB time of 3:19:01, taking 16 minutes of his previous best marathon time and was placed 38th out of 751 finishers. Other RRR marathoners were Tony Peelo who finished in 4:16:32, George Wysocki who finished in 4:43:39 and was 1st in the M70 age category and Frank Ourique in a time of 4:59:04.
The four club members who decided to run the 13.1 mile route around the forest also put in some excellent performances with Jimmy Hunt first home in 1:22:45 in 12th place out of 2054 finishers. Hunt was followed home by Marc Balistrari, competing in his 1st half marathon and finished in an excellent time of 1:28:46. Third RRR home was Emily Toone, also competing in her 1st 13.1 mile race crossed the finish line in a time of 1:48:50 followed by Paul Slaughter who crossed the finishing line in a time of 1:55:04.

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Testway Relay Final Results 2011

Many thanks all those runners that took part in the Test Way Relay held on the 10th of September. All the leg runners did incredibly well, especially with a few having to step up to the plate at short notice. Our mixed team came a comendable 3rd overall.

For the final amended/corrected/tweaked results, courtesy of the hosts Totton Runners, please click here.

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5K Time Final Trial Results 2011

The final 5km Time Trials were held in September, and for those taking part just click here for the results. Well done to Keith Warwick for best improvement, Lynda Brown for second, and coming in joint third Andrew Archibald and David Page.

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Marshall's are needed for our hosting of the first CC6 race of the season on the 2nd of October at Kings Enclosure, Stoney Cross.

If we are able to get sufficient numbers early on then there is a chance we can enter a team or two. Marshalling will just involve giving up a morning on Sunday to encourage and direct the runners taking part around the course as well as other duties.

If you are able to help please see Paul Burnage or David Page on Club nights or send a message through Google Groups.

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RRR Of The Year Nominations

Each year at the presentation evening one award goes to the runner in the Club who has been voted by you as being the Romsey Road Runner of the Year.

Below is the link to download the nomination form - so please spend a few minutes on who you think deserves this prestigious award. Once nominated there will be a secure box to pop your nomination into at Club nights.

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Presentation Evening Dinner and Dance 2011

We are delighted to confirm that our Annual Awards Night 2011 will be held on Friday 18th November at The White Horse Hotel (Market Place, Romsey).

In addition to the presentation of the club’s annual awards, there will be a three-course set meal (detailed below, drinks not included) served in the Brasserie followed by dancing to popular party band May Contain Nuts. Tickets are priced at £22.50 each.
Numbers are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

We will meet in the bar from 7pm, and will be seated promptly at 7.30pm. Dinner will be followed by the Awards Ceremony and dancing, the evening finishing at midnight. So dust off those party clothes and come and join us!

If anyone wants to make a night of it, the hotel is offering rooms for the discounted rate of £105, including full English breakfast.

A PDF form can be accessed and printed off below and returned to any of the Committee members to let the Club you will be attending.

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To help with your race planning I hope each month to give some information on future races within Hampshire (or as close as possible), that may be of interest as well as other important information and key dates concerning the Club.

DISTANCE	RACE	DATE	LINK
5KM	Bupa Mini GSR 5km - a warm up race for those attempting the real deal next day. Road, flat, 10am, £20	29th	HERE
5 MILES	Milford + Keyhaven 5M run - a friendly low key event taking in the delights of the New Forest Area. Road, 10:30am, £7	23rd	HERE
10KM	Help for Heroes New Forest 10km - Held at Linwood a charity event. Trail, undulating, 10:30am, £12	15th	HERE
10 MILES	Bupa Great South Run - Southsea Portsmouth - at the time of writing (11th) it appears that entries are still open but expect them to fill fast - boasting as the UK's premiere 10M race. Road, flat, 10:30am, £38!!, chip timing	30th	HERE
1/2 MARATHON	Solent Half Marathon - Blackfield - A firm favourite of mine with a slightly hilly course with good facilities hosted by Hardley Runners. Starting at Gangwairily Sports Centre then out into the New Forest following the Lepe Beach coastal road. Road, undulating, 10am, £14.50, chip timing	9th	HERE
FULL MARATTHON	Eden Project Marathon - St Austell, Cornwall - One to travel a bit to - Multiterrain, undulating/hilly, 10am, £28	9th	HERE
OTHER	Minstead Stinger - Fritham - Due to the unfortunate demise of the Totton 10km, the Totton Club decided to create this race. I have not done it yet but have heard it's 9 miles of sheer torture with an awesome challenging off-road course. Multiterrain, undulating/hilly, 10am, £12	23rd	HERE

CC6 SERIES STARTING!!

For all of you who may have heard of or took part in the RR10 series, the "CC6" is the equivalent but held during the autumn/winter months and has a much moister, come down right muddy flavour to it!! It is a series of six races held off road, never more then 5 miles in length.

All the local running Clubs take part as well as each Club having to host one of the races either by themselves or jointly. These events are a great introduction for any runner of any ability to have a go at off-road running and I would recommend all members to have a go!

The season starts on the 2nd October with ourselves hosting along with Southampton AC the race at Kings Enclosure at Stoney Cross, so marshals are needed for that day to help.

For full details of events and link to the official "CC6" web site just click the "CC6/XC" button on the left.

Race Archives One Year Old

If you did not realise yet, whenever you have submitted a race result to the Press Secretary this has been duly recorded on the web site, which in October will have been running for a full year. So if your are entering that race and want to quickly know the time/position you came in twelve months ago then go take a look.

To access the race result archives just click the "Races" button on the left, and then hit the "ARCHIVE" button.

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Seven Romsey Road Runners headed to picturesque Corfe in Dorset on Sunday 4th September to tackle the aptly named Beast – a challenging 12.2 mile multi-terrain event based around the Purbeck hills and cliffs. With the dramatic castle ruins as a backdrop, the route took in some serious climbs, hairy descents, steps and stiles – and glorious scenery, including Durdle Door.
Early rain cleared to present a bright day with a cooling breeze – welcome on top of those cliff tops – for the 500 runners who lined up for the 18th running of this popular event (see mass start photo), expertly organised by Poole Athletic Club. Romsey's first runner home was Mark Adams (see attached photo of Adams at finish), who finished 36th in an impressive time of 1:38:04. He was followed by Jim Wright (48th, 1:41:25), Steve Reed (86th, 1:47:55), Ian Ralph (106th, 1:51:03), Paul Burnage (127th, 1:53:57), Tony Peelo (170th, 1:59:58) and Greg Roulston (235th, 2:12:08). The winner – Jakub Valachovic, a runner from the Slovakia All Stars – finished in a very fast time of 1hr 20mins 37sec. In total, 407 runners conquered The Beast.

While Romsey’s Magnificent 7 wrestled with The Beast, Anna Duignan made her annual pilgrimage to Scotland to compete in the Glasgow half marathon, finishing in a very respectable time of 2:08:34. Another club member, Alistair Longworth also decided on the 13.1 mile distance and competed in the Wye Valley Half Marathon finishing in a time of 1:58:38 in 26th place.

On Saturday 3rd September Hammerton lined up with 1000 competitors to swim, ride and run their way around the Leicestershire countryside. A race which was established in 2003, the Vitruvian started from humble beginnings and less than 250 starters in its first year. The competition kicked off with a ‘gentle’ 1.9km two lap open water swim in Rutland Water reservoir. After the swim, the competitors transferred to their bicycles and headed off for a 85km ride, and then just for fun, finished off with a ‘leisurely’ 21km run around the Rutland Water Nature Reserve. After a monumental effort, Hammerton crossed the finish line in a fantastic time of 4:13:35 in 13th place.

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Relay Newsletter Now Published

Heidi our resident newsletter editor has been hard at work to publish this quarter's edition, packed full of results, information and other bits!

Just click below to view it.

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New Autumn Schedule and Session Leader's Report Published

The new autumn training schedule has now been published and can be found by heading over to the "Training" section of the web site.

Also take a moment to read our Session Leader's report from Jane Carter by clicking the "Session" button at the top of this page for the forthcoming training hopes and objectives.

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5K Time Trial Results - August

A recent 5km Time Trial event that heldin August is now available for viewing, so to see if your track sessions are paying off and making you run faster just click here. This was the final practice session before the real thing to be held on Monday the 5th of September - so good luck!

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On Wednesday 17th August, 24 RRR’s travelled east along the A3090 to Hursley (see attached pre-race team photo) to compete in the 10th and final RR10 race of 2011. The race, as always was organised & marshalled by Winchester Athletics Club and the relatively good weather conditions compared to previous years was enjoyed by the 328 runners. Hannah White was the best placed Romsey lady finishing in 28th place and Paul Cardy was the best placed man finishing in a brilliant 2nd place.

The rest of the Ladies results as follows: Emily Toone (31st), Penny Jennings (37th), Heidi Williams (40th), Julia Abab (49th), Di Cross (55th), Janet Burnage (58th) and Anna Duignan (82nd), Jennifer Black (103rd) and Gill Callus (111th). The results for the rest of the Romsey men: Jimmy Hunt (8th), Alistair Longworth (38th), Christopher Brown (50th), Jim Wright (62nd), Marc Balistrari (63rd), Ian Ralph (68th), Steve Edwards (124th), Andrew Archibald (125th), Steve Davies (130th), Paul Slaughter (158th), Keith Warwick (174th) and Derek Kelly (175th).

After 5 months and 10 races the final top three positions for the Romsey ladies and men in the 2011 series is as follows: Hannah White (19th), Tamatha Ryan (20th) and Emily Toone (30th) and for the men, Matt Hammerton (3rd), Jimmy Hunt (9th) and Alistair Longworth (43rd).

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RR10 Season now complete - full results published!

The 2011 RR10 season is now over with the completion of the final race around the picturesque grounds of IBM Hursley last Wednesday.

A huge well done to every runner who represented the Club, and special mention this year to Di Cross, Mark Adams, Chris Brown, and Paul Slaughter who were able to run every race in the series.

All results are now posted on the web site, and can be seen by clicking the "RR10/PEN" button on the left.

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On Sunday 14th August a hardy group of RRR’s (see attached group photo) travelled to Salisbury to compete in the annual 5-4-3-2-1 races. With distances to suit and wide range of runners (and walkers), Tony Peelo and Steve Davies decided to tackle the 30k multi-terrain route run on quiet country road, bridle ways and footpaths around the city with Peelo finishing in a time of 2:51:21 followed by Davies in 3:01:22. While Peelo and Davies tackled the 30k route in far from ideal conditions, Di Cross, Anna Duignan, Gill Callus, Wendy Couper, Keith Warwick and David Nixon ran the shorter but no less challenging 20k course. 20k results as follows: Cross (2:10:37), Duignan (2:24:45), Callus (2:56:41), Couper (2:56:42), Warwick (2:15:07) and Nixon (2:32:19). The final member of the RRR 5-4-3-2-1 team was Mark Adams who ran the 10k route finishing in 1:04:00.

While the small group of RRR’s enjoyed the spectacular scenery around Salisbury, Jimmy Hunt travelled west to Swanage to compete in their ‘Classic Triathlon’. The event comprised of a 1500 metre sea swim in Swanage Bay, followed by 40 kilometres on the bike and finishing with a 10k run. Hunt put in a fantastic performance finishing in a total time of 2 hours 22 minutes and was placed 43rd out of a total of 339 finishers

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On Saturday 30th July, Alistair Longworth decided to take a break from his marathon schedule to take part in the Eastleigh 5km Park Run.  The low key event attracted 180 runners and Longworth put in an impressive performance to finish in 7th place in a time of 19mins (and 1st place in the V40-44 age group). A week prior to this on the 24th, Alistair travelled once more to the South Downs of West Sussex to take part for the first time in the Downland Trail Ultra 30 Mile Marathon. Starting from the village of Clayton it was a sharp climb past the Jack and Jill Windmills, then 15 miles out and back with some fantastic views along the way. Alistair completed the race in 4:44:57, coming in a respectable 20th out of exactly one hundred runners.

On Wednesday 3rd August, 23 RRR’s travelled east along the M27 to Itchen Valley Country Park to compete in the 9th RR10 race which was organised & marshalled by Lordshill Road Runners.  A warm and sunny evening provided relatively good conditions for the 317 runners with Tamatha Ryan again being the top finisher for the ladies in 19th place.   Hannah White finished second for the ladies in 35th place followed by Emily Toone (40th), Heidi Williams (41st), Candice Snelling (50th), Julia Abab (53rd), Di Cross (55th), Janet Burnage (60th) and Anna Duignan (87th).  The 14 Romsey men were led home by the unstoppable Matt Hammerton [see attached photo] who finished in 4th place.  Other men’s results as follows: Jimmy Hunt (12th), Mark Adams (34th), Alistair Longworth (43rd), Jim Wright (54th), Christopher Brown (58th), Ian Ralph (60th), Paul Burnage (67th), Jon Wilott (124th), Paul Bradley (149th), Paul Slaughter (151st), Keith Warwick (170th), Derek Kelly (171st) and David Page (182nd).

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Latest Pentathlon Results Published

The latest updated Pentathlon results have now been calculated using all the 5km time trial results the runners have gained over the last couple of months.

To see the scores, just click on the "RR10/PEN" button on the left hand side.

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5K Time Trial Results

A recent 5km Time Trial event was held on the 11th of July, so to see if your track sessions are paying off and making you run faster just click here

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Mile of Miles Results 2011

Apologies for a bit late, but a huge well done for all those runners who took part in the 2011 Mile of Miles Relay Race held at Applemore College back on the 29th of June.

Our team battled valiantly coming overall 5th place. For full results of all teams and individual times just click here.

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A HUGE THANK YOU!!!

Thanks to all who helped with yesterday's RR10, with special thanks to all those marshals who kept the runners on a complicated course - well done! From the comments that I heard most of the runners thought it was a tough but enjoyable course. I was a bit alarmed at the disparity between the leaders and the tail-enders causing much more overlapping than I had expected, but you all did brilliantly - thanks.

(David Page)

And below a quick comment from one of the runner's,

"Thanks to all the organisers and cheery, encouraging marshalls at tonight's RR10. They certainly kept me going!"

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On Wednesday 6th July, 27 RRR’s travelled the short distance to Fleming Park in Eastleigh to compete in the 7th RR10 race which was organised & marshalled by Eastleigh Running Club. A cool but breezy evening provided the ideal conditions for the 299 runners. Again, the top finisher for the ladies was Tamatha Ryan in 19th place, followed by Hannah White (20th), Emily Toone (24th), Heidi Williams (27th), Penny Jennings (30th), Di Cross (50th), Julia Abab (52nd), Anna Duignan (76th), Jennifer Black (96th), Ruth Page (98th) and Gill Callus (107th). The 16 Romsey men also performed well with Matt Hammerton again being the top finisher in 3rd place. Other men’s results as follows: Jimmy Hunt (10th), Mark Adams (33rd), Marc Balistrari (43rd), Alistair Longworth (48th), Christopher Brown (52nd), Ian Ralph (53rd), Paul Burnage (62nd), Andrew Archibald (108th), Jon Wilott (120th), Greg Roulston (132nd), Paul Slaughter (135th), Keith Warwick (152nd), Derek Kelly (154th), David Jones (163rd) and David Page (165th).

On Sunday 10th July a small group of RRR’s (see attached photo – LtoR: Jennings, Wysocki, Ourique and Davies) headed across the forest to New Park Farm in Brockenhurst to compete in the 10-mile race organised by the New Forest Runners. Although conditions were far from ideal (warm and sunny), Penny Jennings had an excellent run, finishing in 1:18:59. The Romsey men were led home by Peter Rejchrt who completed the tough road and forest track race in 1:08:41, followed by Steve Davies (1:22:30), Frank Ourique (1:23:15) and George Wysocki (1:27:10 and a PB). While five from Romsey ran in the forest, two of our ladies competed in the Southampton ‘Race for Life’. Alice Lane completed the 5k race in a personal best time 28:44 and her Romsey colleague Jane Carter was joined by her 13 year old niece Lydia, running in her first ever race in fairy wings and pink tutu. Jane and Lydia completed to race in 33 minutes.

On Sunday 10th July, Alistair Longworth undertaking his 6th marathon of the year returned to the Sussex South Downs to take part in the Chichester Challenge Trail Marathon. Although weather conditions were near perfect, the race did not go to plan with the lead runners immediately taking a wrong route. Signs of tampering of route markers around the course, resulted in runners completing a total distance of 27.2 miles (instead of 26.2) . Longworth completed the course in a time of 4:05:50 and collected a tenth place, two positions higher than 2010.

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On Sunday 19th June Alistair Longworth undertook his fifth marathon of the year, swapping the South Downs for the Cotswold Hills to take part in the Cheltenham Circular Challenge. A 26-mile course with 4 equal stages for both walkers and runners and the start and finish being located at the historic Cheltenham Race Course. Even though it was Longworth’s third time competing in this event, a slight navigational mistake turned the marathon route into an ‘accidental ultra’ of 28.5 miles. Despite the extra couple of miles, Longworth completed the race 5 hours 23 minutes and 30 seconds. After the race, Longworth was reported as saying that he was determined to “memorise the route for next year”

On Wednesday 22nd June, 26 RRR’s travelled to Marwell Zoo to compete in the 6th RR10 race which was organised & marshalled by Stubbington Green Runners and Athletics Club. This was a brand new location for the Stubbington club and heavy rain during the days preceding the race created very muddy conditions for the 311 runners. The top finisher for the ladies was Tamatha Ryan in 20th place, followed by Hannah White (23rd), Candice Snelling (34th), Hannah Richardson (39th), Penny Jennings (40th), Julia Abab (42nd), Heidi Williams (44th), Di Cross (48th), Emily Toone (49th) and Anna Duignan (81st). The 16 Romsey men also performed despite the muddy conditions with Matt Hammerton being the top finisher in 2nd place. Other men’s results as follows: Paul Cardy (6th), Mark Adams (43rd), Nick Berryman (48th), Christopher Brown (61st), Paul Burnage (70th), Jim Wright (79th), Andrew Archibald (112th), Jon Wilott (132nd), Steve Edwards (134th), Greg Roulston (136th), Derek Kelly (168th), Paul Slaughter (174th), David Nixon (176th), David Page (187th) and Paul Bradley (189th).

On Sunday 26th June a small group of RRR’s competed in the Lordshill 10k race organised by the Lordshill Road Runners. With far from ideal conditions (warm and humid), Heidi Williams and Anna Duignan both had good runs, finishing in 48:52 and 57:59 respectively. The Romsey men were led home by Mark Adams who completed the undulating 10 kilometre course in 40:19, followed by Tony Peelo (47:19), Andrew Archibald (48:30), David Nixon (57:17) and David Jones (58:22).

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On Wednesday 15th June a small group of RRR’s competed in the low key Copythorne Carnival 5k and 10k fun run which was organised by the 2nd New Forest North (Stanley’s Own) Scout Group. While Wendy Couper tackled the one lap 5k course Anna Duignan and Mark Adams opted for the two lap 10k distance. Couper finished in 30:20 and Duigan and Adams completed the ‘short 10k’ course in 52:25 and 39:36 respectively

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Last weekend on Saturday 18th June another three RRR’s (see attached photo of LtoR: Charlotte Maslen, Gill Callus and Wendy Couper) decided that running was not enough, and headed to Bucklers Hard in the New Forest to compete in the Sheactive Duathlon . While Gill Callus did the novice distance comprising a 2.5k run a 10k bike and a 2.5k run, Charlotte Maslen and Wendy Couper did the challenge distance of 5k run a 20k bike and finished with another 5k run. Callus finished the novice distance in 1h5m (and 1st in age group), Maslen finished in 1h56m (and 6th in age group) with Couper completing the challenge in 2h4m (and 1st in age group).

Following on from the multitasking theme of 18th June, seven RRR’s headed to Wellington College to compete in the AXLR8 Triathlon (see attached photo – LtoR: Julia Abab, Paul Burnage, Janet Burnage, Wendy Couper again!, Derek Kelly, Chris Lane and Sarah Thorn). The competing started with a 200 metre swim, followed by 17 kilometres on the bike and finishing with a 5k run. Results as follows: Abab (73:40), Burnage P. (62:52), Burnage J. (71:22), Couper (83:47 and 1st in age group), Kelly (68:59 and 1st in age group), Lane (70:15) and Thorn (70:24).

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Wet Conditions Warning

Please see below a meesage sent from the organisers of the next RR10 to be held this coming Wednesday at Marwell Zoo - bottom line off-road shoes may be appropriate!!

Having revisited the course at Marwell on Wednesday when we found it was fairly wet I think it only fair to warn you that, after all the rain we have had today, the course is likely to be extremely muddy for the race next week. I think it would therefore be of benefit if your runners were advised to wear appropriate footwear on the night ie shoes that have a fair amount of grip as people wearing normal trainers will find it very slippery.

In addition we have checked with the nearby hotel and unfortunately they do not wish to make their toilets available for runners so regretfully there will be no such facilities.

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On Sunday 12th June 238 hardy souls braved the elements to compete in the annual Braishfield Beer Race which is organised by Romsey Road Runners. On previous years many participants struggled with the warm conditions, but with rain falling steadily, the Mayor of Romsey - John Burgess set the runners off on the 5 mile route which is run on country lanes around the picturesque village of Braishfield.

The first runner home was Phillip Berntsen (Winchester AC) in an excellent time of 25:37 followed by James Baker (Chichester Runners & AC) in 26:08 with Casper Jakobsen (Sparta AC) in third place in a time of 26:45. The first lady home was Helen Cartwright in 34:02, in second place was Anna Brown (Eastleigh RC) in 34:41 and in third place was Claire Dyer (Hardley Runners) crossing the finish line in 34:47.

After the excellent feedback received by the club last year, Romsey Road Runners again donned their kitchen aprons to bake an excellent selections of cakes for all the runners. The cake which was then washed down by a pint of the beer (that’s why it’s called the Beer Race) supplied by Fullers, one of the three sponsors of the Braishfield race. For ‘serious runners’ and ‘teetotallers’, Hildon Water based in Broughton again provided hundreds of bottled of their world famous mineral water and Up & Running based in Chandlers Ford provided ‘Spot Prizes’ to a number of very wet and cold finishers of the race.

John Burgess was asked to present prizes to all the male and female top finishers and the highest placed runners in each of the male and female veteran categories.

On Saturday 11th June, Alistair Longworth re-visited the Salomon South Downs Trail Marathon (his fourth marathon of the year). Competitors had an early start in order to pick up a coach from the Queen Elizabeth Country Park to the picturesque grounds of Slindon College in the depths of West Sussex.

The start was changed slightly from the previous year with four waves of runners starting at staggered times commencing at 9am with twenty minute intervals. After the start there was a long uphill climb of several miles to reach the South Downs Way. The weather conditions were near perfect with sunshine but a stiff breeze at times to cool the runners. Alistair was hoping to make good progress in the initial stages of the course as the last third of the course covered the worst terrain with sharp and numerous inclines leading to the finish in the Country Park.

An indication of the quality of the field, Alistair was passed after just over 9 miles into the run by the lead marathon runner who had started twenty minutes behind him, and he soon realised how much of this tough course he had forgotten from the previous year. With his sights set on getting the elusive sub 4 hours finish time, Longworth managed to ‘stagger’ over the finish line in 3:58:55 (136th overall and 25th 40-44 Senior).

Three days earlier on Wednesday 8th June, 31 RRR’s travelled across the forest to compete in the 5th RR10 race held at the Blackfield Recreation Ground which was organised & marshalled by Hardley Runners. Hannah White who is enjoying her best RR10 season was again the top finisher for the ladies in 21st place, followed by Tamatha Ryan (27th), Emily Toone (28th), Heidi Williams (34th), Janet Burnage (44th), Julia Abab (46th), Hannah Richardson (49th), Di Cross (52nd), Jo Weguelin (70th), Jennifer Black (95th) and Gill Callus (109th). The 20 Romsey men also delivered another set of excellent performances with Paul Cardy being the top finisher in 4th place. Other men’s results as follows: Jimmy Hunt (11th), Nick Berryman (53rd), Tony King (55th), Mark Adams (64th), Jim Wright (66th), Christopher Brown (69th), Paul Burnage (70th), Andrew Archibald (114th), Jon Wilott (118th), Paul Bradley (119th), Steve Davies (122nd), Paul Slaughter (143rd), Greg Roulston (144th), Derek Kelly (169th), David Page (175th), Keith Warwick (177th), David Nixon (187th) and David Jones (189th).

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Braishfield 5M Beer Race Pictures

The pictures from the Beer Race very kindly taken by our resident photographer Paul Bradley have now been uploaded to our Flikr site and can be viewed by clicking the button below.

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Braishfield 5M Beer Race Results For 2011

Romsey Road Runners would like to thank all 238 runners who took part in a rather damp Beer Race for 2011!!!

We hope you had an enjoyable day and look forward to you returning next year. Please check back on the web site in the near future for the pictures that were taken, and if you have any comments good or bad please let us know by e-mailing the link below.

Below are the final results.

 

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A HUGE THANK YOU!!!

A massive thank you to the the kind folks of Romsey Road Runners along with their family and friends who turned out in the usual atrocious British weather to make out Braishfield Beer Race such a success again this year. To all those road closing, marshalling, beer pulling, water giving, directing and just plain cheering the runners on - thank you! We feel this year went smoothly with no major mishaps and we hope you enjoyed the refreshments served afterwards. Also gratitude to the folks of our Social Committee and all others who helped with the preparation of the food and it's cooking.

We are looking forward again to next year!! As a sign of how well it went, below are a few e-mails that landed in the Webmasters account after the race......

"Hi Romsey just a note of thanks for the beer run despite the weather I enjoyed the run and the friendly welcome. Look forward to next year. Cheers Mark 129"

 

"What a smashing race despite the wet weather, the marshals did a great job and I hope to be there again next year thank you."

 

"Just wanted to say thank you for another fab race.  Me and my husband did the race for the first time last year and really enjoyed it so hence coming back this year!

Even though the weather was pants the race was well organised and well marshalled, everybody is really encouraging and the atmosphere is great.

We'll definitely be back again next year

Claire and Paul"

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New Summer Schedule and Session Leader's Report Published

The new summer training schedule has now been published and can be found by heading over to the "Training" section of the web site.

Also take a moment to read our Session Leader's report from Jane Carter by clicking the "Session" button at the top of this page for the forthcoming training hopes and objectives.

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Circuit Training Is Back!!

Circuits are now back this Friday starting at the regular time of 6.30pm at Romsey School. Hosted by our very own circuit trainer Mark Adams at a paltry cost of £3.

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Relay Newsletter Now Published

Heidi our resident newsletter editor has been hard at work to publish this quarter's edition, packed full of results, information and other bits!

Just click below to view it.

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RRR Needs You!!!

The Braishfield Beer Race will be taking place on Sunday 12th June. We need as many helpers as possible for this race so please mark it in your diary and sign up on a club night or send an email to Nick Berryman (HERE).

Once again we will be selling home-made cakes. If you can make one please take a leaflet on club night or contact Julia Abab.

The race will be followed by a picnic (bring your own drinks), and there may be some beer that it would be a shame to waste.

If you are going to any races please take some entry forms with you either for distribution or to be left in a prominent position. Forms are available on club nights or from Derek Kelly

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It was quiet weekend for Romsey Road Runners with 6 club members competing in the Ropley 10k on Sunday 29th May . Although a relatively low key event, nearly 300 runners lined up to tackle the ‘hills n dales’ around the picturesque village of Ropley . The club was represented by (see attached photo: L to R) Irene Schaafsma, Heidi Williams, Paul Slaughter, Gill Callus and Steve Davies, and Lynne Whitaker (not pictured).

First across the line was Lynne Whitaker in 43:28, with Steve Davies in a time of 46:53, closely followed by Heidi Williams in her ‘racing shoes’ in a brilliant time of 47:33. Next across the finish line for the club was Paul Slaughter in 49:50, followed by Irene Schaafsma in a time of 59:43 and then Gill Callus, completing this tough 10k race in a very creditable time of 62:21

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On Wednesday 18th May, 27 RRR’s (see team photo) headed across the forest to compete in the Wilverly Plain RR10 race, organised and marshalled by New Forest Runners. Hannah White (see attached photo) was again the top finisher for the ladies in 32nd place, followed by Emily Toone (33rd), Penny Jennings (44th), Heidi Williams (53rd), Tamatha Ryan (54th), Hannah Richardson (56th), Janet Burnage (62nd), Julia Abab (66th), Jo Weguelin (71st), Di Cross (90th) and Jennifer Black (106th). The 16 Romsey men also enjoyed some brilliant performances with Matt Hammerton (see attached photo) the top finisher in 2nd place. Other men’s results as follows: Jimmy Hunt (8th), Ali Longworth (46th), Richard Rapp (55th), Jim Wright (66th), Christopher Brown (84th), Steve Reed (85th), Mark Adams (90th), Paul Bradley (117th), Steve Edwards (125th), Paul Slaughter (158th), Frank Burique (171st), Greg Roulston (186th), David Jones (197th), and David Page (205th).

On Sunday 22nd May three hardy souls took on the hills of the Marwell 10k with Jimmy Hunt putting in a superb performance despite the very windy conditions to finish in 10th in a time of 37:00 . Penny Jennings, who is a Marwell 10k regular, finished in a time of 47:16 closely followed by Hannah White in 48:45 who was very pleased to see the finish line!

Following a recent theme of travelling to find the ultimate challenge, Nick Berryman headed north to line up with 15,000 other runners to compete in the Edinburgh Marathon. The conditions north of the border obviously suited Berryman as he finished the race in a personal best time of 3hours 9minutes.

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After a busy series of weekends for Romsey Road Runners, Sunday 15th saw just 5 club members competing in three events. Wendy Couper travelled to Radstock in Somerset to compete in the Jack n' Jill Challenge 10k. As the name implies, it was a ‘touch challenging’ with some hills plus streams to cross and stiles, followed by even more hills and streams! Wendy crossed the finish line in 1:14:18 and was 1st V60. The attached photo shows Wendy holding her trophy plus a bottle of cider. Wendy joked – “well it was Somerset”

While Wendy was enjoying the undulating Somerset countryside, Heidi Williams, Andrew Archibald and David Jones lined with more than 500 runners up to compete in the Netley 10k at the Royal Victoria Country Park in Southampton. Best placed RRR was Archibald finishing in 46:12, followed by Williams in 47:38 and Jones in 57:47 (a PB by more than 5mins).

Continuing with the multitasking theme of recent weeks, Jimmy Hunt competed in the Salisbury Fast Twitch triathlon. The competition comprised a 400m swim, followed by a 19 miles on the bike with a 4 mile run to finish. Hunt completed the event in a fantastic time of 1:26:34, finishing in 12th place.

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RRR Needs You!!!

The Braishfield Beer Race will be taking place on Sunday 12th June. We need as many helpers as possible for this race so please mark it in your diary and sign up on a club night or send an email to Nick Berryman (HERE).

Once again we will be selling home-made cakes. If you can make one please take a leaflet on club night or contact Julia Abab.

The race will be followed by a picnic and there may be some beer that it would be a shame to waste.

If you are going to any races please take some entry forms with you either for distribution or to be left in a prominent position. Forms are available on club nights or from Derek Kelly.

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It has been a busy couple of weeks for Romsey Road Runners with club member tackling race distances from 10 kilometers to Marathons. On Sunday 1st May Paul Bradley took on the delights of the New Forest Triathlon completing the event in 2:45:36. The Triathlon started just north of Ringwood at the Ellingham Lake and finished at the nearby Moyles Court School. It was Bradley’s first standard distance triathlon and he was particularly nervous about the swim, with good reason as the first stage comprised of a very cold open water swim of1.1km. With a mass start of some 400 competitors it was more like a mass kick boxing fight than a swim but Bradley soon settled down as the faster swimmers worked their way to the front. During the swim, Bradley started to loose his swimming technique and even had one of the safety canoeist checking he was OK when he started going in the wrong direction! The transition to the cycle was painfully slow as Bradley wrestled with his new wet suit. A check of timings after the event indicated that he could easily have run a mile in the time for his transition. The cycle was a 22 mile route round the north of the New Forest. Although there were very strong winds slowing everyone down, Bradley managed to pick up a few places. The event finished with a scenic but undulating trail run of 10k. This is Bradley’s favourite type of running and despite over taking many other competitors in this stage he still finished well down the field in a time of 2 hours 45 minutes.

On the same day , Ali Longworth undertaking his third marathon of the year, competed in the Three Forts Marathon run over the ‘undulating’ South Downs. Called the "The Tough One" it follows the Sussex Downs taking in the historic hill forts at Devils Dyke, Chanctonbury Ring and Cissbury Ring. With mixed terrain and climbs totaling 3450 feet, the race provided competitors with the bonus of an extra mile measuring a total of 27 miles! In complete contrast to last years’ weather of wind and rain the weather was much warmer but a stiff breeze helped to keep the competitors cool. Longworth managed to obtain a PB shaving two minutes off from last years time, completing the course in 4:10:06 finishing 40th out of 237 runners.

While Longworth tackled the Three Forts, Gill Callus and Steve Davies (see attached photo) took part in the low key ‘Round the Rock 10k’ on the Isle of Portland. Despite the hills and very windy conditions, Callus and Davies both had really good runs and finished in times of 60:51 (& 1st V55) and 47:09 respectively.

On Wednesday 4th May, 24 RRR (see attached photo) headed into the forest to compete in the 4.85 mile Longdown Inclosure RR10 race, organised and marshaled by Totton Running club. The ladies were represented by Hannah White who was the top finisher for the club in 26th place, followed by Tamatha Ryan (33rd), Candice Snelling (34th), Penny Jennings (38th), Hannah Richardson (49th), Julia Abab (55th), Janet Burnage (72nd), Di Cross (80th) and competing in her first RR10, Jennifer Black (135th). The 15 Romsey men also enjoyed some excellent performances with Jimmy Hunt the top finisher in 14th place. Other men’s results as follows: Nick Berryman (35th), Ali Longworth (59th), Richard Rapp (62nd), Jim Wright (74th), Steve Reed (85th), Peter Cork (93rd), Chris Brown (94th), Andrew Archibald (125th), Paul Bradley (126th), Greg Roulston (152nd), Jon Wilmott (161st), Clive Hearn (166th), Paul Slaughter (173rd) and Derek Kelly (183rd).

Continuing with the New Forest theme, Andrew and Pippa Archibald took part in ‘Run for the Lifeboats Lymington 10k’ on Sunday 8th May. The race followed country lanes and the flat coastal path along the sea wall with fantastic views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. The cool and breezy conditions obviously suited the Archibald’s with Andrew finishing in 46:03 and Pippa in a time of 52:50.

Finally, on 8th May Paul Burnage travelled north to Warwickshire to take part in the Shakespeare Marathon which is run on roads and tracks outside Stratford-upon-Avon. Despite the cool and windy conditions and the undulating course, Burnage (see attached photo) completed the 26.2 mile course in 3:28:02.

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Updated Key Dates

The Romsey Road Runners "Key Dates" page has now been updated and is available in PDF format. This is your one stop shop to plan for the year for key events that involve the Club so you can plan ahead. The link can be found under the navigation buttons to the left of this page.

Two events that have been confirmed and requires teams to be put forward are the Mile of Miles Relay, to be held at Crosswell School on the 29th of June, and the Test Way Relay on the 10th of September. Both are great fun to enter so just at Club for further details!

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Another relatively quiet weekend saw a small group of RRR take on the delights of the XLP Research Trust Triathlon which comprised of ¼ mile swim, a 16.25 mile bike ride and a 3.5 mile run. The club was represented by Julia Abab, Angela Burnikell, Wendy Couper, Jimmy Hunt and Derek Kelly. With near perfect conditions, the famous five thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of the three disciplines with a pair of fantastic performances from Hunt and Burnikell who were ranked 2nd and 3rd place in their respective categories (see attached photo of Angela & Jimmy with their medals). Other results are as follows: Abab (16th), Couper (54th) and Kelly (44th).

While a group of RRR were multitasking at the XLP Triathlon, Alistair Longworth had eyes set on the 20/40 Compton Challenge, run on footpaths, tracks and bridle ways around the village of Compton in Berkshire. It was going to be another tough race and even by the start, bright sunshine was beating down on more than 130 runners. It wasn't long into the 20 mile race when temperatures had reached around 27oC and Longworth who is always enjoys a challenge, put in another impressive performance despite the heat and still managed a sub 3-hour time finishing in 2:59:24 and 19th place (up from 37th place in 2010). At the end of the race Longworth commented “spare a thought also for those tackling the 40 mile course!

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It was a one race weekend on Sunday 17th April for RRR as our six intrepid runners headed to south east London to compete in the Virgin London Marathon. Now 30 years since the first Marathon, it provides an annual opportunity for club members to test their physical and mental fitness on the 26.2 mile course around the streets of the London. The weather proved to be absolutely perfect for the hundreds of thousands of spectators but just a ‘little too warm’ for the 35,000 runners.

This year Romsey Road Runners were represented by (see attached photo L to R) Matt Hammerton, Jane Carter, Tony King, Hannah White, Amanda Hull and Steve Davies. The performance of the day went to Hull who finished the event in 3:24:38 taking the ladies club record for the London Marathon by nearly 7 minutes. The two other ladies also had really good runs despite the warm conditions with Carter finishing in 3:37:25 and White, competing in her first marathon finishing in a brilliant time of 3:57:10. The Romsey men, not to be outdone by the ladies also put in a set of fantastic performances with the Hammerton leading the way with a time of 2:47:08, followed by King in 3:46:13 and Davies in 4:21:02.

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Another busy weekend for RRR provided more excellent results for the club. The performance of the day (Sunday 10th) was from David Jones, one of our newest members who competed in the Brighton Marathon. Jones who was tackling in his first marathon did not really enjoy the warm conditions but still managed a very creditable time of 5h25m58s.

While Jones pounded the streets of Brighton and Hove, a group of RRR (see attached photo above) travelled the short distance to Houghton to compete in their 11-kilometre trail race. The ladies were represented by Julia Abab, Gill Callus, Wendy Couper, Di Cross, Penny Jennings, Charlotte Maslen and Ruth Page and the men by Mark Adams, Paul Cutbill, Steve Davies, Matt Hurst, Derek Kelly, Tony Peelo, Greg Roulston. Jennings was the best placed lady, finishing 3rd in a time of 57:16 with Matt Hurst the fastest man finishing in 50:03. The rest of the results as follows: Ladies - Abab (1:03:46), Callus (1:12:51), Couper (1:20:34), Cross (1:07:56), Maslen (1:06:23) and Page (1:10:26) and Men – Adams (58:29), Cutbill (58:40), Davies (57:16), Kelly (1:02:38), Peelo (55:34) and Roulston (56:27).

Not satisfied with a scenic run around the Test Valley, Matt Hammerton headed north to compete in the Ashbourne Duathlon (12k run + 40k bike + 4k run) run on gravel tracks around Carsington Water in the very hilly Derbyshire Peak District. Hammerton always enjoys these tough challenges and finished 3rd place overall in fantastic time of 2:10:22.

With the London Marathon only a few days away, a large contingent of Romsey Road Runners gathered at a local Italian Restaurant (Ruscello at Dukes Mill, Romsey) on Tuesday 12th April to show our support for the 6 club members (see attached photo - L-R: Tony King, Hannah White, Matt Hammerton, Amanda Hull, Steve Davies and Jane Carter) who will be tackling the famous 26.2 mile course on Sunday 17th April. We wish them well on their weekend adventure!

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Updated Circuit Training Dates

Just to note for your diaries circuit training will be running on Friday the 8th of April, but cancelled for the 15th, 22nd and 29th of April. They will be recommencing on the 6th of May.

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Another varied weekend of running for RRR provided more excellent results for the club. The performance of the weekend (Sat. 26th) was provided by Matt Hammerton who competed in the Questars Duo Adventure Race, a 30-mile mountain bike ride followed by a 20-mile trail run on lanes, cycle ways and footpaths within the New Forest. These types of challenge certainly suit Hammerton as he finished in 1st place in a time of 5h11m. A little further east in Sussex, Wendy George was taking on another tough challenge by competing in the Endurance Life ½ marathon which is run along the dramatic white cliffs and broad grassland around Beachy Head. A fine performance by George finishing in a very respectable time of 2:50:48.

Perfect running conditions greeted the field of 1780 runners for the 27th running of B&Q Eastleigh 10km road race. With the race run over the same course for the past few years, the 6 runners from Romsey were in good spirits with many hoping for personal bests. Alistair Longworth was the first to finish in a time of 39:13, closely followed by Ian Ralph who was hoping for sub 41 minutes finish, but instead smashed the 40m barrier finishing in 39:51 (and PB). Just 4 places behind him Peter Rejchrt crossed the finish line in 40:03 with David Nixon finishing in 57:18. Romsey ladies were represented by Lynne Whitaker who had another great 10k run finishing in 41:41 followed by Heidi Williams in a very respectable time of 46:58.

While a group of RRR pounded the streets of Eastleigh, three Romsey ladies (+ visitor) headed into the heart of the New Forest to compete in the Ringwood Rabbit Run. Advertised as a 10k but actually measuring 6.4 miles, it was an enjoyable run through the forest, being well organised and marshalled by the 1st Poulner Scouts. The ladies put in excellent performances with visiting runner Marie Duignan (representing the Wicked Running Club based in Salem, Massachusetts) finishing an excellent time of 49:20, followed by Anna Duignan in 59:20, Gill Callus in 63:56 and Wendy Couper in 67:45. (see attached photo: LtoR – Callus, Couper, A.Duignan and M.Duignan).

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Exbury 10km Pictures Now Published

Some pictures of the Exbury 10km recently held have been taken and uploaded to our Club Flikr site, so don't delay, just hit the "PHOTOS" button to the left to view them.

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A busy weekend for RRR provided another batch of excellent results for the club.  The performance of the day (Sunday 20th) was from the ladies competing in the Exbury Gardens 10k.  The team comprising Penny Jennings, Anni Dawes, Gill Callus and Wendy Couper picked up the ladies team award with Jennings finishing 3rd lady and 1st V45 in a time of 47:22.  The rest of the ladies team also gave some great performances with Dawes finishing in 47:54, Callus in 60:40 and Couper in 66:09.  In addition to a great ladies team effort, Steve Davies also put in fantastic run which earned him a personal best time of 46:05.  (see attached photo: LtoR – Dawes, Jennings, Couper, Callus and Davies).

While the ladies team were enjoying success in the New Forest, other club members had set off in four different directions to compete in races with distances of 13.1 to 21 miles.  Hannah White and Jimmy Hunt traveled to Reading to take part in their Half Marathon, with White finishing in a personal best time of 1:46:14 and Hunt finishing in course best time of 1:22:01.  With White and Hunt pounding the streets of Reading, Steve Reed headed north on the M3 to compete in the Fleet Half Marathon.  The fast and traffic free course which utilised a mix of rural and urban roads suited Reed as he crossed the finish line in an excellent time of 1:34:05.

Offering pre-London marathon training, the Cranleigh 21-mile is run on quiet country roads around Cranleigh in Surrey.  Jane Carter and Nick Berryman enjoyed the warm and dry conditions and helped in no small part by the very enthusiastic and encouraging marshals to see them around the 21.2 mile course.   Carter had another excellent run finishing in 2:47:00 with Berryman crossing the finish line in 2:35:18.  Not to be outdone, Paul Burnage travelled to Wales to compete in the Rhayader ‘Round the Lakes’ 20-mile road race.  The course and conditions obviously suited Burnage as he finished in a personal best time of 2:38:59.

A week earlier, Alistair Longworth (see attached photo) headed into the heart of the New Forest to take part in the John Austin Half Marathon.  The race started from Brockenhurst College and the course included gravel tracks, minor roads, wooded trails and boggy pathways.  A virtually traffic free race with great scenery and near perfect weather conditions, Longworth crossed the finish line in 26th place in a time of 1:33:01

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It may have been a relatively quiet weekend for RRR but there were still a number of great personal performances.  Club stalwart Lynne Whitaker, new club member Lorena Caro Bautista, Peter Rejchrt and Ian Ralph headed west along the A36 to compete in the Salisbury 10-mile race.  The course which was run along minor roads around Salisbury, included a couple of hills and a section following the river with the race starting and finishing on the Salisbury athletics track.  Whitaker gave another great performance finishing in 1:09:12, closely followed by Bautista in a time of 1:11:12.  The men also set a pair of excellent times with Rejchrt finishing in 1:07:55 and Ralph only about half a minute behind in a personal best time of 1:08:28.

Not content with your ‘Run of the Mill’ run, Tamatha Ryan (see above photo) set her sights on The Grizzly ‘Valley of the Bogs’ based in Seaton, Devon. A 20 mile race with every sort of terrain - pebble beaches, bogs, woods and cliffs.  The race benefited from glorious weather and the fantastic support provided by bands, pipers, a didgeridooist, drummers and even local firemen to hose you down!  The organisers announced at the start that the 2011 race would be the toughest yet, and Ryan had to agree after crossing the finishing line in 3h52m (and 10th in age category). 

Finally, Marc Balistrari set his sights on the Southbourne 10k race which was run along the coastal road east of Bournemouth.  The ‘fast n flat’ course obviously suited Balistrari as he delivered another personal best performance finishing in 39:02

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Updated Safety Guidelines Now Published

A new and updated list of the Club's safety guidelines have now been published and can be found on the "Training" link to the left under the "Safety Guidelines/Risk Assessments" drop down box. Please take just a few minutes having a quick read or just click the link below to be taken there immediately.

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On 6th March nine Romsey Road Runners (see attached photo – L to R: Rapp, Bradley, Nixon, Jennings, Roulston, Cutbill, Kelly, Wright & Abab) headed for Fleming Park to compete in the final CC6 race of season which was hosted by Eastleigh Running Club.   CC6 regulars Penny Jennings and Julia Abab finished 14th and 26th respectively with Richard Rapp best placed Romsey man in 14th position and Jim Wright in 21st.  Other results: Paul Bradley (51st), Greg Roulston (57th), Paul Cutbill (62nd), Derek Kelly (81st) and David Nixon (82nd).  At the end of the Cross Country League season, the ladies team finished in 6th position and the mens team finished 4th.  RRR wish to congratulate the Southampton men and Hardley ladies who took the team prizes for the series.

While many RRR were enjoying the Fleming Park CC6, another group of club members headed west into Dorset to compete in the Mad March 10 and 20 miles races.  The cold and dry conditions could not have been better for the nine club members (see attached photo – L to R: Davies, Hull, White, Williams, Carter, Hunt, Peelo, Hurst & Slaughter) with Amanda Hull, Jane Carter, Steve Davies and Hannah White all opting for the 2-lap 20 mile race while Heidi Williams, Jimmy Hunt, Matthew Hurst, Paul Slaughter and Tony Peelo competed in the single lap 10 mile race.  20 mile results: Hull (2:29:27), Carter (2:42:33), Davies (2:48:32) and White (2:54:51).  10 mile results: Hunt (1:02:04 and 3rd place male), Hurst (1:14:19), Williams (1:18:26, PB and 3rd place female), Slaughter (1:20:15 and PB) and Peelo (1:21:31).

Tackling his second marathon distance of the year Alistair Longworth went completely off-road to tackle the Steyning Stinger, a marathon distance race run over the Sussex Downs with ‘4 stings in the tail’.  Conditions for the race were near perfect, which helped Longworth to finish this challenging course in a great time of 4:19:41.   While Longworth was enjoying views of the Sussex countryside,  RRR Matt Hammerton teamed up with Phil Westmorland (Team Name: Alpkit Adventure) and headed north with their mountain bikes to compete in the 4th ‘Open 5’ of the season which is run on bridleways around in the historic market town of Bakewell in the Peak District.   Team ‘Alpkit Adventure’ obviously enjoyed the conditions finishing the race in 4th position

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Relay Newsletter Now Published

Heidi our resident newsletter editor has been hard at work to publish this quarter's edition, packed full of results, information and other bits!

Just click below to view it.

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On Sunday 27th three Romsey Road Runners headed east to join 351 other runners for the 2011 Meon Valley Plod. The 20.6 mile race started under bright sunny skies although the weather was not to hold alas, and eventually our trio had to contend with heavy rain as well as the hilly and muddy conditions. The course had been modified from previous years and included a new hill at around 6.5 miles and the climb up Butser Hill now being slightly shorter but steeper. The course again proved extremely challenging for the competitors and our three RRR all put in great performances, Alistair Longworth managing a time 21 minutes faster than last year finishing in 3:19:49, with Steve Davies and Jane Carter (see attached photo) crossing the line together in 3:50:03 and 3:50:04 respectively.

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A Polite Reminder......

Now we are entering the new Spring training schedule, just a polite reminder to all runners who take part in any type of session with the Club that I-pods and other types of portable audio equipment are not to be worn at any time due to the safety factor.

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RRR Key Dates Now Published

At the bottom of the the links at the left hand side of this page is now a new feature that being a Word Doc containing all the year "key dates" as a one stop place to see important events such as Committee Meetings, Home Runs, main Club race events etc.

It is a document in progress and will be updated regularly when things are decided, so make sure you check it routinely.

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On Saturday 20th February a lone Wendy Couper set off across the New Forest to take part in the inaugural Hope Rising 10k cross country race at the Avon Tyrrell Activity Centre (see attached photo).  The muddy and hilly conditions obviously suited Couper as she made a bold claim that it was “the best cross country course I have run in a very long time” and has vowed to run the race again!  Couper’s finishing time was 1h20m and reflected the very tough and challenging conditions.

On Sunday 21st four Romsey Road Runners headed north on the M3 to compete in the Bramley 20/10 (see attached Bramley photos).  The cold conditions proved perfect for the 10 and 20-mile races with the ‘Romsey 4’ opting to complete the full 20 miles along with more than 850 other runners.  Ali Longworth was the fastest of the four RRR finishing in a time of 2:22:56 with Amanda Hull being the fastest lady finishing in 2:29:23.  Paul Burnage and Steve Davies also had really good runs finishing in 2:28:31 and 2:44:00 respectively.

While four clubs members were enjoying the undulating country road around Bramley, four more RRR headed east to compete in the Concept Sport Winchester 10k.  Lynne Whitaker was again on top form, completing the very hilly 10 kilometre course in an excellent time of 41:56 and finishing 1st W50.  Irene Schaafsma also had an excellent run, crossing the finish line in a personal best time of 56:47 and helped Romsey ladies team into 4th position behind three Winchester ladies teams.
Romsey men Marc Balistrari and Peter Rejchrt also put in a pair of excellent performances finishing less than a minute apart in 40:01 and 40:42 (and 6th place M40) respectively.

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PASTA PARTY 2011

This years Pasta Party will be on Tuesday 12th of April at Ruscello Restaurant, Broadwater Rd, Romsey.

There’ll be a set menu, at a special price of just £10 per head for two courses (drinks,
desserts and coffee can be ordered and paid for separately on the night)..

Booking sheets are available on club nights and will also be available to download from clicking the logo below.

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On Sunday 13th February Totton Running Club played host to the latest CC6 race at Boulderwood in the New Forest. 116 hardy souls braved the wind, heavy rain and mud to take part in Race 5 of the Cross County League series. CC6 regulars Penny Jennings, Heidi Williams and Liz Slade finished 17th, 19th and 24th respectively: with Lynda Brown taking part in her second CC6 finishing in 8th position, placing the ladies team in 4th place. The men also put in some good performances in the difficult conditions with Marc Balistrari the best placed RRR finishing in 6th position with Jim Wright (18th), Ian Ralph (21st), Steve Reed (24th) and Paul Bradley (53rd) which placed the men's team in 3rd. After Race 5 of the Cross Country League, the ladies team are currently in equal 4th position with Lordshill while the men's team are currently in 4th position overall.

While a number of RRR members were ‘enjoying’ themselves in the New Forest, Ali Longworth headed west into Gloucestershire to compete in the Dursley Dozen, a 12 mile multi-terrain race run over hillsides, roads, woodland, open country, mud and solid rock. Longworth enjoyed the race which included negotiating a hill by rope, finishing in a course personal best time of 1:46:29.

A week earlier on the 6th February Lynne Whitaker set sail and crossed the Solent to compete in the Ryde 10 mile race. The very windy and undulating conditions did not slow Whitaker too much as she finished 8th (and 1st V45) in a respectable time of 1:10:39. While Whitaker was taking in the sights of the Isle of Wight, Steve Davies was tackling the hills of the Blackmore Vale ½ marathon which is run on country lanes around the village of Bishop’s Caundle, Dorset. Despite the windy conditions Davies managed a personal best time of 1:47:55.

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Welcome To New Members!

Pippa Archibald

Mike Evans (structured training towards the London Marathon)

Julia Smith (keeping fit and running with a group)

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In The Name Of Science....

Just in case anybody is interested in the below request for subjects...

I am currently in the third year of a Sports Science degree at the University of Winchester and am in the process of developing a dissertation. For my dissertation I am examining if gender has an influence on the how much effort we feel we are exerting during exercise, with specific attention to male and female cyclists. Consequently, the results acquired may allow for further understanding of the differences that exist between men and women during exercise.

Therefore, to collect data for the dissertation, female and male runners between the ages of 18 and 30 are required to participate in two exercise tests. The initial test involves the completion of a VO2max Test; this requires the individual to exercise, on a cycle ergometer, until exhaustion. The second test involves the individual exercising at 25, 50, and 75% of their maximal heart rate. These exercise tests will not only allow me to gain information for my dissertation but are also a great opportunity for the participants to acquire data about their aerobic capacity and aerobic power, which is crucial for cycling and are essential fitness components to facilitate high performance levels.

If any of your members are interested in participating or you have any questions then please email me:

0811657@unimail.winchester.ac.uk

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No pics of races this week, but above is a clear indication of the Club going from strength to strength with there now being only "standing room only" on training nights!

After the excellent turnout of Romsey Road Runners for the Romsey ‘5’, Sunday 30th was a very quiet day for the club.  The very cold but dry conditions did not deter four hardy club members from heading west into Wiltshire to take part in the ‘Stonehenge Stomp’.  While Di Cross, Wendy George and Ruth Page were enjoying the 20km course, Tam Ryan decided to tackle the 30km course and finished in a time of 2h50m.  The Stomp comprises a mixture of bridle ways, footpaths and minor roads with scenic views of Stonehenge provides an ideal training run (or jog) for those preparing for the London Marathon.

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"On Sunday 23rd January, eighteen Romsey Road Runners turned out for the Concept Sport ‘Romsey 5’ which was run for the first time around the grounds Broadlands.   The dry and cold conditions turned out to be absolutely perfect for the Romsey ladies, with the ‘A’ team comprising Amanda Hull, Lynne Whitaker and Hannah White (see attached photo L-R: White, Hull & Whitaker) finishing 1st and the ‘B’ team with Anni Dawes, Julia Abab and Pippa Archibald finishing in 4th.  The full RRR women’s results are as follows: Hull (31:54 – 6th place), Whitaker (33:05 – 9th place and 1st M50), White (35:45 – 13th place and a PB), Dawes (39:37 and 5th W35), Abab (39:52 and 3rd place W50), Archibald (41:41) and Charlotte Maslen (49:28).

In addition to the two fantastic ladies team performances, the Romsey men also put in some great individual performances on the fast and flat 5 mile course.  Jimmy Hunt, the highest place RRR managed a sub 30 minute time finishing in 29:53 (26th overall) closely followed by Marc Balistrari in a personal best time of 30:18.  The rest of the RRR men’s results are as follows: Tony King (31:13), Nick Berryman (32:40), Steve Reed (33:23), Paul Bradley (35:56), Tony Peelo (36:21), Greg Roulston (36:27 and PB), Mark Adams (38:09), Paul Slaughter (38:56 and PB) and Derek Kelly (41:46 and 5th place M65).

While a number of RRR were enjoying the picturesque setting of Broadlands, Ali Longworth headed west to take part in the Gloucester Marathon, his first road marathon in nearly 8 years.  With light winds and cool temperatures providing ideal conditions, the 344 marathon runners shared the figure of eight course around the Quedgeley estate and a rural road loop joint with hardcore runners competing in a 50km race!  Only recently recovered from injury, Alistair made a steady start and then finished strongly, crossing the finishing line in an excellent time of 3:36:58.

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Romsey 5 Pictures Now Published

A massive well done to all the runners representing the Club at the recently held Romsey 5 Mile race. Results incoming soon, but for now head over to our Flikr site to see yourself immotalised on film by clicking the "Photos" button.

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On Sunday 16th January, eight Romsey Road Runners headed east along the M27 to take part in the Stubbington 10k road race. The cool and breezy conditions proved ideal, with Lynne Whitaker again being the quickest lady club member finishing in a time of 42:02, closely followed by Amanda Hull in 42:19. Jane Carter put in another solid performance, finishing in 46:11; Hannah White made full use of her 2011 London Marathon training during the past few months by putting in a personal best time of 47:15 while Liz Slade eased across the finishing line in 52:48. The men also turned in some excellent performances, with Ali Longworth putting in the quickest club time of 40:27, followed by Paul Burnage in 41:15 and Steve Reed in 43:01.

Preferring slightly softer conditions underfoot, Paul Bradley and Candice Snelling (see attached photo of Paul, Candice and work colleague) decided to tackle ‘The Grim’ in Aldershot. The 8-mile off-roader had more than enough mud for our two club members; Paul finishing in a time of 1:17:29 but with Candice a nose ahead in a time of 1:17:28! Across the county boundary in Wiltshire, two more club members were also enjoying the mud and hills of the Rough ‘n’ Tumble course in Marlborough. Jim Wright put in an excellent run, finishing in 1:25:19 while Tam Ryan (who always enjoys the mud) crossed the finish line in a time of 1:40:09.

A week earlier Irene Schaafsma returned home to take part in the 39th ‘Half Marathon Edmond aan Zee Netherlands’. The race consisted of one loop through the coastal village Egmond aan Zee followed by 7-kilometres across sandy beaches and a further 9-kilometres through woods and dunes, with the finish close to the beach on 'Boulevard Noord'. Irene (see attached photo – No.14741) enjoyed the conditions apart from the winds gusting off the North Sea and finished in a personal best time of 2:17:13.

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Welcome To New Members!

Welcome to the Club at the start of the New Year;

Peter Rejchrt

David Jones

Anni Dawes (keep fit and run 10km's)

Jennifer Black (keep fit)

Chris Jewell

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2011 RRR AGM Date Set

The Club's next AGM has been set for Wednesday the 9th of November 2011, at the Crosfield Hall Annexe from 7.00pm - 10.00pm.

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On Sunday 9th January, 15 club members (see attached photo) took part in the 24th Stockbridge Cross Country fun run, with proceeds from the event benefiting the George Skeates Benevolent Fund.  Although it was a bright and sunny morning a number of club members found the first few miles rather cold.  After tackling a number of muddy and hilly sections of the course including the infamous ‘Gumboot Gully’, hats, gloves and other surplus layers of clothing were soon discarded. 

Fast lady Lynne Whitaker took the conditions in her stride and finished in 58m30s (and 1st female) while Greg Roulson was the best placed Romsey man finishing in 63m.  Other results – Ladies: Jane Carter (63mins), Heidi Williams (67m58s), Penny Jennings (68m20s), Julia Abab (68m59s), Liz Slade (74m29s), Ruth Page (77m30s) and Di Cross (78mins).  Men: Tony Peelo (63mins), Chris Lane  (66mins), Paul Bradley (67m02s), Derek Kelly (73mins), Paul Cutbill (74mins) and Andy Cherret (76mins).

Steve Davis also took part in the Milborne 10, completing the course in 79.44, coming 132nd.

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Circuit Training Back On!!

Any trainer will say that to improve your general fitness or to get better at running then cross training is the way to go, and not to rely purely on pounding those streets!

Circuit training is now back on, Friday nights at Romsey School, from 6.30pm - 8.00pm at a cost of £3, so don't delay get down there and give it a go!

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(l-r Jane Carter, Paul Cutbill, Wendy Couper, Heidi Williams)

Well done to the five Club members who braved the New Year blues and ventured to Ringwood to do the Somerley 10km race. Lynne Whittaker (not pictured), took the coveted first Vet Female coming in 37th overall in a time of 43:11. Following behind were, Jane Carter 84th 46:54, Paul Cutbill 115th 48:28, Heidi Williams 176th 51:34, and Wendy Couper 415th 1:07:35.

Don't forget, if you have done a race then let the Club know by either filling in the sheet at Club night or e-mailing the Webmaster, and it also means your results can be archived for prosperity as well as a one stop place to see if you have improved from last years results!

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Membership Renewal Now Due

Just a quick reminder from the Membership Secretary that Club membership renewal is due starting on the 1st January 2011.

The cost is £15 for the Club membership, and to renew with English Athletics is an additional £5, (this covers insurance as well as reduced rates when entering locally held racing events).

Club membership also gives the benefit of a 10% discount when buying running gear from most of the running outlets around the Southampton and Portsmouth area!

Cheques made payable to "Romsey Road Runners"

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A HUGE Thank you.......

To all the Club members and helpers who turned out on the 2nd to help marshall and assist at the latest CC6 meet at Stoney Cross. Woolly hats and lovely tabards seemed to be the order of the day for all those marshalling, water giving, encouraging etc to make this a very successful event.

Below are a few pictures from the day, and don't forget to check out the rest of the photographs by clicking the "PHOTOS" link on the left and visiting our Flikr site.

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HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Welcome to the brand new news pages for 2011!! 2010 have been archived and can be found by clicking the link on the right for those memorable snippets and pictures of 2010.

I know that many people treat their running year starting and finishing at different times throughout the twelve month period, however if you are one of those who uses the obvious, as of today, then good luck to your running efforts for 2011. Whether it be striving for a new race distance, achieving a new PB or just looking to getting fitter, then myself and the Committee at the Club you wish the very best in the forth coming year, and hope Romsey Road Runners can facilitate this!!

The Webmaster

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Session

A word from our session leaders Jane Field........

Summer 2011

What a great summer training we’ve all had at Braishfield and on the track, and I would like to thank all of the coaching assistants for running the track sessions. I am sure it has been good to have different people “organising” you.

Soon we will have to start the town and hill sessions. However we have a few weeks of efforts at Crampmoor lane and the Romsey Sports centre pitches.

The Braishfield 5km club handicap will be run on 5th September for all runners to compete against the handicapper for the shield- a job which has been getting harder every year and I anticipate a tough time again this year; bribes could be accepted!

With the dark nights due soon please remember the Safety Guidelines are in my folder on a club night or on the website – please make yourself aware of these for club sessions and when you are training on your own. Fluorescent bibs will be needed soon.

This will be my last session leader report as I am not standing for re-election at the AGM. I have been session leader for 5 years; a role that I have enjoyed. It has been great to be able to encourage and help you all with your running and see the club continue to develop and grow. During my 5 years I have managed to build up a group of 5 coaching assistants who have helped to share the work and I am hopeful that this will continue. I know a few members are keen to do a level 1 coaching course, and possibly level 2. This will really help the club to support all of its members.

I believe that we need to continue to be a fun and welcoming club for all levels of runners, whilst also developing our more competitive runners (hence a job for more than one person I feel).

I hope that you have all enjoyed participating in the training sessions and I thank you all for your support during my time in this role.

Keep running!

Could you organise a Home Run?

Do you have a favourite run that you would like to share with club members?
Do you have a favourite pub or other place you run from?
Could you organise a club run?

A home run is a gentle, social run from a member’s home or other suitable local venue (such as pub or forest car park). Routes are normally 6 miles, with a shorter option available, and a leader and sweeper will be needed. The run is followed by refreshments organised by the host (usually sandwiches, cakes and squash) for which members pay £2. These could be organised instead of a Monday or Thursday session, or at a weekend. In the past we have had a home run every month between May to September and they are a great way for members to socialise, run and explore a different running area.

The club will provide a minimum of £50 in advance for the host to spend. On the night a committee member will collect the £2 from each member and the host keeps any monies above the £50 already provided.

If there is anybody who might consider hosting a home run please contact myself or another committee member.

Keep Running.

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Members

NO UPDATES RECEIVED

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Chairman

When I agreed to take on the role of club chairman a year ago, (or was I possibly conned in the nicest possible way by Jane) I really was not sure what I was letting myself in for. What has impressed me is how hard the committee has worked to help others enjoy our club, their running and achieve their goals. They are a very talented and hard working team that the entire club benefits from, many thanks to all of them. Also thanks to the many club members who are prepared to help out in general, although even more would be even better!

The club has had an incredibly successful year thanks to its enthusiastic members and a great committee. Whichever way you measure success I think we have achieved it.

Our membership is well up and should have grown to about 120 by the end of this year; which I think is the highest ever. Well done to Steve Davies for his efforts though out the year. I must admit I thought there would be a peak of work for Steve at the start of the year and quiet for the rest but it seems to have been manic for most of the time.

Possibly the most impressive success has been the sheer number of runners that regularly attend our training sessions on Mondays and Thursdays. A couple of weeks ago I counted 54, with over 40 being the norm for a Monday and over 30 for Thursdays. We might not be the biggest club in Hampshire but few can have such a high percentage turnout for regular training sessions. Credit for this must go to Jane Carter for her fantastic achievements in this area. Few will realise how much effort Jane puts into the coaching, creating sessions to cater for all abilities, helping improve performance while keeping an eye on safety the whole time. A victim of her own success, trying to get 40+ runners out and back safely is quite a challenge. I am not sure who it was but someone said it was like herding cats, an excellent analogy in my opinion. People like turning up at the club and running without having to think too much, sometimes neglecting pedestrians and road users. I would like to encourage everyone to take responsibility for their own and others safety, it is completely unrealistic and unreasonable to expect Jane to do everything. Also thanks to Wendy Couper, Gill Callus and Chris Lane for helping out on a regular basis. In the next year we are having a big push to get more people qualified as coaches which should help considerably.

Many aspects of the running of the club the average member does not know happen. Lynne Whitaker is our club secretary and as well as organising and minuting committee meetings and the AGM, also acts as our main interface to the rest of the running world. This includes registering members with England Athletics, obtaining our club London Marathon places and negotiations.

You will soon hear from Liz Slade how healthy the club finances are. We are not profit making and want to use the money in the best way for the club. Liz has been able to keep on top of our spending and projected finances which have enabled us to pay for additional coaches to be trained and provide a subsidy for social events as well as many minor expenses. Sadly even running revolves round money and many thanks to Liz that others don’t have to worry about it.

Christine Saunders has done a great job organising social events this year with really good turn outs, particularly for the presentation evening barn dance and hog roast last week, the pasta party at the Old House at Home and the post beer race BBQ. We are definitely more than just a running club and I think the social aspects add considerably to our popularity. In addition we had some great home runs and club walks which add variety and everyone looks forward to. There was also the club trip to Cornwall that Nick Berryman organised which was tremendous fun, I am looking forward to the next one in Exmoor in May.

While Nick Berryman is our fixtures secretary, he has done so much more this year. Well done for being voted Romsey Road Runner of the Year, very well deserved in my opinion and obviously many others. Over the last year there has been very high turn outs at races for the club, with many members enjoying the competitive part of running. It has been so nice to turn up at RR10s and CC6s and see a mass of blue and gold vests from our club. I did initially start to list the outstanding individual performances at this point but it soon became apparent that there were just too many to mention

Hannah White continues to get us good coverage in the local press although frequently the size of the headline and supporting picture bear no relationship to the achievements of our runners. It was a little frustrating that the CC6 that we hosted last winter filled the entire back page of the Romsey Advertiser but there was no mention that it was organised by the Romsey Road Runners who also provided the pictures for the article. Never mind, it raised the profile for running in the area which is good. While it is always nice to read about our achievements there is also the important aspect that this publicity encourages others into joining the club. Well done Hannah for this weekly write up.

Kit secretary Greg Roulston is another of the team who does a great job. Not only does Greg purchase the kit and bring it along to the club for members but he also has spent time investigating possible changes to the range. He has also provided memorable moments by modeling selected items occasionally.

Heidi Williams joined the Committee with no specific role and helped out whenever she could, covering when other members were not available. More recently she has taken on the race book, keeping it updated with entry forms and bringing it to club nights.

Matt Hammerton is another who has been helping out the Committee and has been increasing his involvement with the club

The newsletter has been a bit variable this year due to personal time constraints. Thanks in anticipation to Matt Hammerton for offering to take over the Press Secretary role.

The Braishfield Beer Race was another great success with many members of the club helping out. Thanks must go to Jeremy Hartley the race director and Nick Berryman, Derek Kelly and Jan Burnage who made up the race committee. We are particularly grateful to Fullers for their primary sponsorship of the event; well done to Derek for negotiating that and thanks also for agreeing to take over as race director.

Once again Mark Adams took circuit training at the Romsey School on Fridays which is very popular with those that participate. If you have not been to one of these sessions I suggest you try it. Good all round condition helps reduce injuries and is good cross training.

Ali Longworth has put a lot of effort into the web site this year and it is one of the primary ways that new members hear about the club. A good web site needs to be regularly updated and Ali does just that for the club. In addition Ali writes many of the articles himself in a very entertaining style which adds to the interest considerably.

Complementing the press articles, newsletter and the web site for communications is the Romsey Road Runners Google Groups. Thanks to David Page for maintaining this with regular updates to members. David is going to do a sales pitch for this later in the meeting and I strongly encourage more people to join in and contribute. The more people involved, the more useful it becomes.

While there have been many excellent results from our runners there has been one notable, high profile, failure – the football match against Halterworth Harriers. It was apparently closer than the score would suggest! Thanks to Chris Lane for organising this event. It is great that a town the size of Romsey can support two thriving running clubs, long may the friendly rivalry continue.

There have been many issues over the last year but there is one that is probably getting worse due to the success of the club; that is the parking at the Woodley Village Hall. On a Monday evening there are other users of the hall that have a start time after ours and have on occasions found there to be no parking spaces left when they arrive. We must respect that others have as much right to the car park as members of our club and I encourage people to walk, jog or car share as much as possible to reduce the problem.

As I mentioned earlier, with our success has come new members. Let’s make a real effort to keep our reputation as a friendly club and make sure that we welcome all, whatever their ability or age. It can be quite intimidating for some new members who don’t know anyone at the club and/or lack confidence in their abilities. If you see someone you don’t know, make an effort to talk with them and make them welcome. It has been noticed that we throw complete beginners straight in with the normal training. Gill Callus has volunteered to help inexperienced people, or those getting back into running, to build their fitness so that they are not pushed too hard initially and can enjoy their training with us.

There is always scope for improvements, if anyone has any ideas, please pass them on to a committee member or even better join in and help make it happen.

I would like to finish off by thanking everyone for making it such an enjoyable year at the club for me and to apologise for not being able to mention everyone who has helped support me and the club.

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AGM

2011 RRR AGM Date Set

The Club's next AGM has been set for Wednesday the 9th of November 2011, at the Crosfield Hall Annexe from 7.00pm - 10.00pm.

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2010 RRR AGM Minutes

Thank you to all those Club members who came to the Crosfield Hall on the 2nd for this years AGM.

Apart from a few admin points discussed about the running of the Club, the highlight was the pizza and wine at half time!

Below are the minutes in various formats.

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RRR AGM Minutes Now Posted

Many many thanks to all the members who came to this years Annual General Meeting held at Crosfield Hall. If you weren't able to make it then you can still catch up on what was decided by viewing the minutes by clicking below.

AGM Minutes 2009

 

Club Constitution

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