MEMBERSHIP NOTES 23rd April 2013
MEMBERS
Welcome to the 15 new and 4 reinstated members who have joined or re-joined since 26 Nov 2012. Despite 2 emailed reminders, 31 members have not renewed their subscriptions and will be removed from the membership list. 19 members have resigned, We now have 434 paid up members.
NEWSLETTER
The massive increase in postal charges has forced us to change to an electronic version of the Newsletter as the preferred option. Any member who wishes to continue receiving a printed Newsletter must contact me, if they have not already done so. Please inform me if you add or change your email address.
Please send photos, news, letters, articles, etc for the next issue to: DAVID FAIRWEATHER 12 POWBURN CRESCENT, UDDINGSTON, G71 7SS e-mail: djf@dfairweather.plus.com Tel: 01698 810575
SVHC EVENTS
Stewards/marshals are required for club races. The club appreciate all members & friends who volunteer to act as stewards/marshals. If you are not competing just turn up and introduce yourselves to the organisers. Thanks to all those who have already helped out.
STANDING ORDERS
Thank you to the members who have set up standing orders for membership subscriptions. Please remember to update the amount payable, & keep me informed if your membership details change (especially email addresses). If any other member wishes to set up a standing order please contact me.
Please ensure, if possible, that the next payment date is set for 10Nov2015, and annually thereafter.
CLUB VESTS
SVHC running vests can be purchased from Molly Wilmoth for £15 (Tel: 0141 7764941).
BMAF ANOUNCEMENT
British & Irish Cross Country International It is with deep regret that we have to re arrange the venue of the British and Irish Cross Country International, scheduled for Colwyn Bay on Sat November 16th. The new venue will be at either Cardiff or Swansea with no date change. As it is short notice for us, we will confirm a venue ASAP with accommodation packages etc.
BOB DONALD I’m sorry to report that our Honorary President is not well and is currently in Gartnavel Royal Hospital. I’m sure he would welcome visitors.
NEW MEMBERS
CHRS SURN JOINED NO. TOWN
George Balmer 21-Dec-12 2116 Eastbourne
Joanne Clark 18-Dec-12 2115 Cartland
Anne Docherty 06-Feb-13 2123 Forres
Edward Gerrard 02-Feb-13 2121 Broadford
Anthony Hall 21-Feb-13 2124 Paisley
Sarah Knox 23-Jan-13 2119 London
Allison Law 15-Apr-13 2127 Lenzie
Clare Macaulay 15-Dec-12 2114 Langside
Stan MacKenzie 21-Mar-13 2126 Dingwall
Jennifer MacLean 06-Feb-13 2122 Edinburgh
Claire McArthur 01-Feb-13 2120 Hamilton
Anthony McGale 09-Dec-12 2113 Torrance
Colin McGill 18-Jan-13 2118 Edinburgh
Richard Meade 18-Jan-13 2117 Edinburgh
Alex Sutherland 07-Mar-13 2125 Errogie
Connell Drummond 18-Jan-13 1968 Kilmarnock
Hugh Gibson 05-Mar-13 555 High Blantyre
Craig McBurney 04-Feb-13 1887 Paderborn
Annmarie McCaffrey 05-Apr-13 1840 Annathill
RUN and BECOME SERIES 2012/13
The Run and Become Veterans Race Series is based on the International Age Graded tables and has 8 scoring races from 12. Runners can gain merit points by completing more than 8 races, an additional point being awarded for each race beyond race 8.
There is a very generous prize list including the Dale Greig Trophy to the first woman and the Jackie Gourlay Trophy to the winning man.
Last season’s winners were Fiona Matheson and Stewart McCrae, with prizes going to the first 5 men and women and trophies to the winner of each 5 year age group.
With such an attractive prize list there is plenty for everyone to aim for!
After 4 races the leading contenders are John Gilhooly, Sandy Eaglesham and Peter Cartwright in the men’s competition and Phyllis Hands, Ada Stewart and Fiona Matheson in the women.
The remaining races for 2013 are:
May 1 Snowball Race Coatbridge
May 5 SVHC Walter Ross 10km Cartha Rugby Club
May 18 Bathgate Hill Race
June 16 SAL Masters Track Champs (Men 5K, Women 3K)
June 5 Corstorphine 5 miles RR
June 26 SVHC 5K Clydebank
August 18 BMAF 10km Champs (inc SVHC Glasgow 800) Cartha Rugby Club October 6 Half Marathon, Kirkintilloch Further details will appear in your Newsletter and on the SVHC website.
Alastair Macfarlane
LETTERS
San Sebastian Thoughts
There are always good points and bad points about these international events…….. The bad points are invariably administrative issues like the time it took on day one to get registered. Some people reported three, even four hours, but we got through within 30 minutes.
The most significant thing is to remember that this event ran over 6 days of competition, non stop from 09:00 till 21:30, so the efforts and dedication of all the volunteer officials and the admin support personnel cannot be overestimated. They always deserve thanks.
It was a shame the competition schedule meant that the cross country running and the 1500m track competitions ran consecutively on the same day, meaning the men especially could not do both events. I do not understand why that had to be the way it was and would suggest that is something to be avoided in the future.
Big thanks need to go to Maurice Doogan the GB&NI Team manager……..he had very little additional help and was an ever present in the stadium dealing with various issues and problems. The 3,000m races were particularly problematic with large fields and a big range of ability which resulted in some errors with lap counting……these events were on the first morning, so maybe the track officials were a bit underprepared, but on a 200m track, the challenge is significant.
As Athletes all know, to be successful requires a fair bit of selfishness. Competing does not lend itself to supporting your friends and other team members in their events, but the GB&NI team did manage to provide plenty volume in the stadium and that always helps a lot. San Sebastian itself is a lovely location.
Although the weather was a bit Scottish in the first few days, it did warm up and brighten up towards the end of the week. Lots of nice bars and restaurants to visit and it was really easy to get around from place to place.
Ian Joy
Veteran, Master, Harrier, Athlete, a rose by any other name is just as sweet, an tae tell the truth a’ hae been/am the hale jing bang show an a’ wis a late entrant tae the runnin’ scene! came in via the marathon boom via the Fa’kirk Vics an wi’ the late Jimmy Kelly, The Scoattish Vets. We lined up wi’ the elite, Jimmy sayin’ we are the elite.
I am a road runner a’ else is a bonus, I enjoy the challenge of the road, the cameraderie of the packed dressing rooms, before and after.
The track I came to, in some measure to get out of the slipstream of Willie Marshall. I had done the miles had the strength, the stamina so why no the track, it wis a breeze a’ a’ had tae dae wis suss oot the field hing in ahint taking the pace an then belt it fur the tape an a’ did no too bad at that, even at British level.
The X/C, noo that is a different story, it wis a’ hard work an a’ wis at the tail end, aye even wi the lassies, bit yin event at Cupar lives wi’ me; demanding course, the weather inclement in the extreme, runners packin a’ o’er the place. Jean worried tae hell aboot me, whar wis a’, hoo wis a’ getting oan, she wis reassured I was being monitored personally through the hale course, tremendous.
You disappoint me, you aquiesced (ma Higher Englis), lay doon, hid intransigent (Highers again) polis destroy the road racing scene, changed courses, unsocial start times introduced.
The Rt. Hon Dennis Canavan, a title richly deserved, is a quality road runner, records better times than I, agreed wi ma disquiets; unsuccessful in remedy, bit then he had a helluva load oan his plate.
Our government sought tae house the Tour de France. a’ve written ma MSP tellin him that if they so minded then let’s resuscitate the Edinburgh to Glasgow Road Relay, noo jist let’ a’ youse yins dae the same, an dae we nae hae professionals whom we pay tae dae the same?
The Scottish Athlete of the year is undoubtedly Fiona Matheson.
A’ve tell’t oor committee ma disquiets re 9am start, noo a’ ken it’s no easy administerin bit a suggest a 1:30pm start fur The British lOK a la Xmas H/Cap gie a’body a chance tae participate, try getting frae Edinbro Toon withoot a caur oan a Sunday an that’s jist Edinburgh, there’s Perth, Dundee, Aberdeen etc.
Finally The Scoattish Vets his enriched oor lives in so many ways we are hingin in, hence the letter an’ thanks again.
Hugh McGinlay Falkirk Victoria
SVHC ATHLETE PROFILE QUESTIONNAIRE
Name: Laura Mahady
Date of birth: 20.02.58
Club: Aberdeen Amateur Athletic Club
Can you list your PBs? 200m 28.7; 400m 61.05; 800m 2:19.5; 1500m 4:50.73; 1mile 5:26.00
How did you get started in the sport? I have always enjoyed running, and ran daily for years just for the feel good factor it gave me. I began running competitively in 1996. How did you get involved with your club? In 1998 my children and I took part in a local race, I was first lady, and my children were first, second and third respectively in the children’s race. We were approached by a member of AAAC and asked if we would consider joining the club. A few weeks later we joined the club..
What do you feel you get out of the sport? I get so very much out of the sport: there is the feel good factor which comes with running; I love a challenge; I enjoy the training; athletics has given me a social life with like minded people; it is something my son and I do together – we are in the same training squad; there are the achievements and the sense of fulfilment; athletics has become part of my identity; it has changed my career and working life….10 years ago I moved from being a lecturer in Psychology, to being a lecturer in Sports Psychology.
What would you not have wanted to miss about being involved in the sport? I wanted to run competitively as a child, my parents were approached by members of Hawkhill Harriers but my mother blocked all suggestions that I start spending time training; she feared my school work would suffer. I always told myself I would do it some day. I would hate to have never have had the opportunity.
What has been your best / most satisfying performance? Finland 2009, World Masters Championships, W50 800m. I felt like I was taking on the world. I was so determined, but also rather fearful. My mantra was: ‘This is mine’. I would rather have died (but only once I got over that finish line first) than let anyone beat me.
The first lap I was very controlled but when I heard the bell go I knew it was time to see what I could do. I clocked 2:19.5 and set a new European record.
And your worst? My first international event was the World Masters Indoors in 2008 in Clermont Ferrand. I felt completely overwhelmed by it all. I ran in the 3000m and the 1500m. I achieved bronze in the 3000m but ran 30 seconds slower than I had done just weeks earlier.
Can you give some details of your training? I do 9 sessions a week, three or four of these sessions are completed with coaches, Joyce and Ken Hogg. I do an easy recovery run on a Tuesday and a 9 to 10 mile off road run with friends on a Sunday. My other three sessions are spent in the gym on the machines and using weights.
Has any individual or group had a particular influence on your running or attitude to running? There are many people over the years who have inspired me; my father was a competitive sportsman until he was 64 so I have never seen age as an obstacle. Several years ago at a Scottish Masters Championship I witnessed a jaw dropping performance by Esther Linaker. I was told that day that she was the fastest woman in the world in her age group. I thought that was the most amazing achievement, and it was something I immediately aspired to, but never thought I could achieve. My coaches, Joyce and Ken Hogg, have made me the athlete I am today, their dedication and hard work is reflected in our squad, and we are all very supportive of one another.
Do you have any running ambitions that are still unfulfilled? I just want to keep training, running and competing for as long as I can.
Are you or have you ever been involved in other sporting activities? I was THE sporty child at school: netball, gymnastics, hockey, athletics. I could never get enough. A few years ago I did some cycling and competed in a few duathlons.
You have run the Masters Cross Country International a few times, what are your memories of the event? The camaraderie amongst the team is great, you are running not only for yourself but for the team and for Scotland. Wearing that Scottish vest makes me feel proud.
What are your views on the administration of the sport in Scotland? I am always humbled by the efforts that everyone in the sport puts in. So many people giving of themselves in terms of time and resources. The outside world has little idea that the sport is run by volunteers.
Is there anything you would like to see from the SVHC that is not there at present? I would like to see more SVHC athletes encouraged to take part in these big international events. In particular, Scotland has produced some world record holding female masters athletes, eg Esther Linaker, Janette Stevenson, Fiona Matheson, Sandra Branney . It is unfortunate that some of these ladies have not attended these events and claimed their rightful place on the podium.
Tell us about your day job. I lecture in Sports Psychology at the University of Aberdeen. Filling this post came about as a direct consequence of being a Psychology lecturer who ran and competed.
What do you do to relax? I have a real problem relaxing. Going for an easy run along the River Don with my dog is my idea of relaxation.
Track & Field Review
Another Indoor season over and a very successful one for Aberdeen’s Laura Mahady, the new world record holder for the W55 800m. Laura set a new Scottish Masters best performance of 64.20s in the W50 400m at the Scottish National Open in the Emirates Arena on 19th January but really hit the headlines after her 55th birthday in late February.
At the European Championships in San Sebastian, Spain Laura ran 2:27.84 to win the W55 800m bettering the world record of 2:29.66 she set when winning the BMAF title at Lee Valley less than a fortnight earlier.
Laura also set a Scottish Masters W55 best of 64.11s when winning silver in the 400m at the Europeans bettering her time of 64.22s set when placing second behind Caroline Powell’s world record at Lee Valley. Powell just missed her world record when winning in San Sebastian and it was no surprise when both girls were later members of the GB 4 x 200m relay team gold medallists and new championship record holders.
Laura therefore ended the championships with one world record, two gold medals, a silver medal and a share of a championship record. A fantastic performance.
Whilst Laura dominated, several other Scots enjoyed success at the European Championships with Stephen Allen (Law & District) winning silver in the M45 800m, Sue Ridley (Edinburgh) silver in the W45 individual cross country and W40 team silver, Susan Young (Dundee) gold in the W35 4 x 200m, Sharyn Ramage (Edinburgh) silver in the W50 team cross country, Ronnie Hunter (Corstorphine) gold in the M50 4 x 200m and Ramsay Sloss (Larkhall) gold in the M60 4 x200m. Anglo Scots Joss Harwood, silver in a British medal clean sweep in the W55 60m hurdles and Alasdair Ross, silver in the M60 60m and gold in the 4 x 200m, helped boost the medal total.
Liz Bowers narrowly missed a medal finishing fourth in the W60 1500m but her time of 5m 55.25s is a Scottish Masters best performance bettering the time set by Jocelyn Ross some 23 years ago.
Other Scottish competitors I noticed were Fiona Davidson (W40 Aberdeen), Angela Kelly (W50 Giffnock North), Janice Hardcastle (W50 Milton Keynes), Derek Watson (M50 VPCoG), Alex Bryce (M50 Falkirk), Alan Leiper (M50 Aldershot), Derek Leitch (M60 East Kilbride), Ian Johnstone (M60), John Thomson (M50 Fife) and Jim Sloan (M70 Annan).
Of the ten individual world records set at the championships five were credited to British athletes.
Full results can be found on the EVAA website and will also no doubt be published in the next edition of ‘Masters Athletics’.
Although the turnout for the Scottish Masters Championships was disappointing given the opportunity for athletes to experience the magnificent new Emirates arena six Scottish Masters and fourteen championship best performances were recorded.
Amongst the record breakers was Shettleston stalwart John Scott who set a British record and championship best of 12.74m in winning the M70 shot before improving the British mark to 12.75m competing for NVAC at the BMAF Championships a month later.
Other Masters bests were set by Fiona Davidson in the W40 long jump (4.60m) and triple jump (10.85m), Joss Harwood in the W55 60m hurdles (10.32s), Lee Notman in the M35 400m (53.68s) and Hugh McGinlay in the M85 400m (1:48.12).
Ian Paget (Shettleston) set a Masters best for the M40 long jump with a distance of 6.18m whilst placing second in the Masters age graded heptathlon on 9th/10th February. As first Scot in the event with 4154 points (Brian Slaughter M55 from Eastbourne won with 4877 points) Ian was presented with the Steedman medal. Full results can be found on the Scottish Athletics website.
The 30th British Masters Open Indoor Championships and Winter Throws Championships were held at Lee Valley, London on the weekend of 9th/10th March with some nineteen Scots athletes participating. I’ve already mentioned John Scott’s gold and Laura Mahady’s gold and silver but other ladies deserving a mention are Fiona Davidson with gold in the W40 triple jump and silver in the 60m, Claire Cameron (SVHC) golds in the W50 shot and discus and silvers in the hammer and weight throw, Joss Harwood (VAA-NE) with silver in the W55 60m hurdles and Liz Bowers (SVHC) who set a Scottish Masters best of 2:59.27 in claiming bronze in the W60 800m.
In the male events Pete Cartwright (SVHC) won both M70 1500m and 3000m, Jim Sloan (NVAC) gold in the M70 discus and bronze in both shot and weight throw, Ian Miller (EVAC) three golds in the M75 shot, hammer and weight throw, Ian Johnston (VAC) silver in the M45 3,000m, Ian Johnstone (SVHC) bronze in the M60 3000m, Allan Leiper (SCVAC) gold in the M50 pole vault and Alastair Ross (SCVAC) gold in the M60 60m and 200m.
Full results can be found on the BMAF website and will appear in the next edition of ‘Masters Athletics’.
Outwith the major Championships another couple of performances should be highlighted.
After a couple of fantastic years since turning 50 Fiona Matheson (Falkirk) was again prominent when she set a Scottish Masters best of 4:48.70 in the W50 1500m whilst competing in the Scottish National Open at the Emirates Arena on 19th January and Dougie Graham (Edinburgh) finished 2012 strongly by setting new figures for the M35 pole vault by clearing 4.10m at the Glasgow Open on 27th December.
In total 29 Scottish Masters track & field best performances, 15 outdoor and 14 indoor, have been improved or set since 1st April 2012 and, hopefully the next twelve months will produce at least the same again.
Updated best performance lists can be found on the SVHC website.
My apologies to anyone who should have been included in my review but has been inadvertently overlooked.
Although not strictly a review of track & field I would like to take this opportunity to mention an event in which I am involved and may be of interest to some of readers.
City of Edinburgh Running Festival was set up by a group of runners with the aim of holding a top class ‘Open Athletics’ running event in Edinburgh.
‘Open Athletics’ is the term used to describe the athletics circuit currently operating each summer throughout Fife, the Scottish Borders and North of England.
Competition is on a handicap basis and entry is open to all competitors over the age of nine. We will be staging a range of races from 90m to 1600m for Juniors (9-12), Youths (13-16) and Seniors (over 17) with a total prize fund of some £7500 on offer and a top prize of £3000 for the winner of the Senior 110m sprint sponsored by Ortholink (Scotland) Ltd.
The event will take place on grass at Meggetland, Edinburgh on Friday 5th July 2013 commencing at 6pm and for more information check out our website www. cerf.org.uk or contact me at mikeclerihew@yahoo.com or by phone on 0131 331 2412.
By Mike Clerihew
Race walking (a double Olympic event 20km and 50km)
What is race walking? An Olympic sport, known by many names, such as heel toe and speed walking. It isn’t correct to call it ‘power walking.’ My personal description is that it is: An enjoyable, whole-body, challenging, technical, injuryfree exercise suitable for anybody of any age.
What are the benefits? Why race walk?
- Incredibly good all-round body exercise (makes you very strong and powerful for running, by the way) • Great cross-training activity for running • Prevents injury (or great as an injury recovery ‘mechanism’): massive reduction in knee impact, let it be noted. • It’s a life-long activity • It’s a challenge (physically and technically) • The race walker community naturally tend to be incredibly supportive • It burns heaps of calories and that means you can eat tons of cakes (and have a clear conscience)! • Women, it needs to be said, are by far, more genetically-designed as race walkers than men. • Training should be familiar to you: You’ll follow all the same training principles as running. Just add regular ‘technique’ sessions into the programme, and you’re on a winner. • Requires a great deal of (constant) concentration and focus (so it’s great for keeping the grey matter healthy) • Have fewer ‘bowel’ issues • Beating runners while race walking could be your ultimate goal • It’s a cross-generational sport: Allows the entire family to participate on the same level playing field.
What makes race walking a ‘technical’ event?
Race walking is judged according to 2 main rules: 1. One part of one foot must remain in contact with the ground at all times (not doing this is known as ‘Lifting’).
Example of lifting (breaking ‘contact’)
- The ‘lead’ leg (the ‘front’ one) needs to be straight at the knee from contact to push-off (not doing this is generally referred to as ‘Bent knee’)
This is achieved in numerous ways, most notably the use of the arms and the hip ‘wiggle.’ Together they allow a race walker to optimise their speed and stride length. All of these factors (in association with differing body – skeletal / morphological – differences) contribute to multitudes of styles. Regardless of the race walking style that a walker uses, they must contain themselves within the 2 main rules above.
What happens if they break the rules? In one word: They will get DQed (disqualified).
To be DQed, a walker would generally receive 2 red cards and will then get pulled off (only ever by the Chief Judge) should they receive a 3rd red card.
Any judge can issue a red card (also called a ‘warning’) for either ‘lifting’ and / or ‘bent knee.’
A judge is only permitted to use their naked eye for judging (so, for example, would never refer to a digital photograph).
A walker will know they have received a red card because a judge will (while announcing the offending race walker’s race number at the time of the offence) show them a small yellow baton with a symbol on it that identifies whether the athlete is ‘lifting’ (~ symbol) or has ‘bent knees’ (> symbol)
Judges can, and frequently do, give walkers cautions (these are not red cards): This is just telling the ‘infringing’ walker that they are in jeopardy of breaking the rules (but only a wee bit).
Red cards appear as big red dots on ‘The Bad Boys Board’ (as it is fondly known) adjacent to the specific individual walker’s race number. This board is visible to all (and is usually placed just before the lap marker / start-finish line).
These rules apply in all events, over any distance (which usually ranges from 3000m to 50km, generally-speaking).
‘A’ and ‘B’ races Events can be listed as ‘A’ category or ‘B’ category races. Essentially, all major championship events and ‘important’ races will be ‘A’ races: Rules are strictly applied to every walker in the field.
More ‘socially-embracing’ events are ‘B’ races, in which the judges are far more lenient, and will only really dish out red cards and DQs when a competitor is consistently breaching the rules, or if they are simply making a mockery of the game (running, for example).
‘B’ races tend to be ones in which participation is the number one goal / purpose of the event.
Recruiting (is this where you start ignoring me?) new race walkers usually occur around a training environment or in ‘B’ races.
Be prepared, though: Prepare to receive huge amounts of mutual support and encouragement (and coaching tips)! You will be rewarded with these whether you like it or not, whether you come first or last: There! You heard it first here!
Do I need any special equipment? Running kit is perfectly suitable for race walking.
Do I need a special training surface? Race walking can be done almost anywhere. However, you’ll soon discover that ideally you should aim for the following:
- A relatively flat surface (even minor hills, unnoticed by runners, become mountains for a race walker, down- hills included) • No / little camber, wherever possible • A more solid surface is preferred Etiquette (the un-written rules) for those unfamiliar with race walking: • It is rather impolite to tell a race walker they are ‘running’ • ‘Walker’ is a perfectly acceptable term to use • On a track, it is accepted etiquette and practice to allow faster walkers to take the inside lane. • Accept all judges’ cautions and warnings graciously (it’s probably a call to fine tune your technique and / or to get fitter). • It is extremely common for competitors to warm up and warm down together (regardless of their club / regional associations) • It is acceptable practice to thank the judges and officials at the end of the race (as long as it does not impede their duties, of course). • It is extremely common for walkers to wish all other walkers good luck, and just as common to congratulate every other walker at the end. • It is common to invite / suggest to anybody making remarks about the nature of the sport to have a go at it (but never turn it into a ‘challenge’)
Where can I find out more information?
The following websites are good for starters: www.racewalk.com www.racewalkuk.com
Andrew Fraser Portobello Running Club
(Editor’s Note: If you would like Andrew’s contact details for more info please email me – djf)
The Scottish Vets trip to the Canaries 2013
Day 1 Where does the year go? Fuerteventura this year. There is nearly 30 going once again to get some warm weather training in and of course the usual rush to the swimming pool to get some Vit D and a bit of colour.
We arrived on time, and disembarked 2 hours later at our hotel in Caleta de Fustes. We agreed to meet at 5 o’clock for the reckie run. John Bannister, who is out in Fuerteventura quite a lot suggested that we run along the cycle path, which starts at the hotel entrance and goes along next to the main road, as starting point to explore the area for suitable routes to run on.
After about a mile on the cycle path, we had to go round a roundabout and there were a couple of junctions as well, we headed down towards the beach and the promenade to see how it was.
With the run over we had out traditional start to the holiday. We found the nearest bar in the hotel. A few had missed the run and were already well lubricated with the local aperitifs, beer, wine and hotel’s special cocktail, the “Elba”. Not sure what was in it but the ladies fairly took to it.
The standard of the food was impressive. The veggies on the holiday, the Mac’s, said the choices for them wasn’t too bad.
Day 2 All things bright and beautiful on the first full day of the holiday. There wasn’t that many out to enjoy it at 8 o’clock for the run and walk. The task this morning was to find a suitable route for the 5K race. Jude Boulton and myself headed along the prom and the sandy/gravel path which looked promising as it went back onto the prom again and headed for the town center and the harbour. The harbour looked ideal for the turning point.
I reported back to Peter Rudzinski, this year’s race convenor, about our findings. He would head out later with his Garmin® on and check it out.
An uneventful day spanned out but come late afternoon when it became slightly cooler the 5 o’clock club were gathering at the hotel entrance ready for the run and walk. There were 14 runners. I can’t remember such a big turnout.
The evening saw a few of the group form a team to try the music quiz down in the Broadway Bar. Then we all headed back up to the foyer to listen to a young lady who was singing and also played the saxophone in the Kenny G style. She was very good. Nice way to finish the night.
Day 3 It was very hot at 8 o’clock this morning. There was a big turnout. I ran with Jude to finalise the 5K course. The rest went along the dirt trail, which headed out of town. It was 3 miles out and back. A nice change from the usual tiles which is so common in the Canaries.
The hot weather didn’t last long. By lunchtime the clouds came over and the wind picked up as well. Got a bit chilly. A few of the squad were getting restless, so darts was suggested. We had Brian (our video man), Mark Rudzinski, new groupie Colin Gray and Stuart. playing Round the Board.
When I arrived about 1 hour later, Colin, Brian and Stuart were trying to finish on the bull. Mark was still on 8. 15mins later not much had changed, though Mark was now on 11. An agreement was reached with the bull chasers. They would have one dart each and nearest the bull would be declared the champion. Colin won the contest by a 1⁄2 inch. This was his first Scottish Vets sporting title.
The entertainment at night was very good. Elvis was back in the building. The lad didn’t try to impersonate him though his hairstyle and clothes were very Elvis. He sang his songs and his patter was very entertaining as well. Most were up dancing, but the star turns were Laurie and Jannette Pearson. Boy can they two jive. After about 5 encores Elvis had left the building. A very enjoyable night.
Day 4 It was slightly overcast as we went down for breakfast. The 5K this year could be run in cooler conditions for the first time in many years. We started to gather in the foyer at 10.30am. The 5 lady walkers were asked for their predicted finishing time, as would the runners before their race.
Off went the walkers at 10.45 with Shirley making her intentions known. She was going for gold. She was well in front at halfway. Her finishing time of 42:56 showed she could fairly move. Helen and Janette Pearson were next to finish. Their tongues looked well worn out. This was definitely the case when Eileen and Jannette Robson finished.
Now on to the runners. From the gun the big 3, Jude Boulton, Gerry Montgomery and Hugh Laverty were pushing on at a fair pace. Pamela McCrossan the ladies champion for the last umpteen years wasn’t that far behind them though. At the 800 metre mark and as you left the prom onto the sandy, gravelly 400 metre stretch of the course Jude started to pull away.
I started out with Davy Mitchell, and Jimmy Mac who are both getting towards their 70’s. I would struggle, but they would struggle even harder. Who would be an athlete?
Up front at the turning point, Jude was pulling away from Gerry. Hugh was dropping back.
In the ladies race Pamela was finding the fitness she was getting from her London Marathon training was paying dividends. She wasn’t that far behind the leaders. The surprise package was Hazel Boulton who was looking on course to set a PB for her in the Canaries. Christine Duncanson was still chasing down Hazel.
The last runner to the turn was John Robson. He has lost a lot of fitness over the last 2 years. Still he was trying very hard in his usual manner.
Jude finished in 1st place as the sun started to come out and the temperature rise. His time of 18:42 wasn’t his fastest but he was pleased to retain his Breakaway title. Next home was Gerry, only 23secs behind. Hugh hung on to be only a further 21secs back. 4th place saw the return to racing of Mark Rudzinski. A bit heavier these days but he was pleased to hold off the fast finishing Pamela. Her time was 20:45. 2nd lady was Hazel, and 3rd place to Christine 17secs behind Hazel.
In the battle of the 60’s, Peter was the first to finish. He won this age group title for the first time. His time of 22:54 was not his fastest but it gave him great satisfaction getting the better of his rivals.
A word of thanks to our two timekeepers Laurie and Janet Bannister. And the video man Brian. A job well done. Nice touch from Ian the rep, who presented a bottle of Cava to our two winners, Shirley and Jude.
Day 5 Today would be the Annual Quiz. The questions were a joint effort from Stuart and Christine. They had 25 questions each to ask. 24 turned up. There would be 6 teams of 4. Each team was asked to give themselves a name and nominate a captain. The captain would have the final word with any answers.
After the first two rounds out of the 4, there were still 4 teams in contention. The 3rd round would be the one that would sort them all out. The question which had them all pulling their hair out was “Which Benedictine Monk Invented Sparkling Wine?” It took a Clydebank man to know this. And you thought the only drink they knew about was Buckfast. It was Dom Perignon. Brian’s team got it right.
Christine was giving us the questions for the last round. Most of the teams got more than 50% correct but The Brains (Eggheads) of Fuerteventura 2013 were Brian and his motley crew with 30 correct answers out of 50.
Day 6 Tennis would be today’s Fuerteventura Championship after the morning run. There were 6 volunteers who would take up the challenge. It would be a doubles contest. John Bannister would supply the free passes to the players, his winnings from the quiz. Colin & Mark, Brian & Jannette Robson and Stuart & Jude.
If you won your game you would stay on the court and take on the next pair. The ones with the most wins would be champions. Simple.
From the early games Brian and Jannette were the ones that were difficult to remove from the court. It must be said the standard of tennis wasn’t great but very entertaining.
The standard was to drop even further when Hugh Watson and Christine wanted a piece of the action. Someone had told Hugh it was dead easy, just hitting a ball over a net. Hugh might have been a good runner over the years but his hand eye co-ordination wasn’t that good. But he was fairly entertaining the large group of spectators. Well two of us. You had to feel sorry for Christine. She wasn’t bad at all. Getting a few serves in and the occasional return. Not like Hugh. He did start to get the hang of it eventually. His crosscourt volleys were starting to land in the playing area but most ended up in the volleyball court over the fence. They wouldn’t win a game. By 12.30 they all had had enough. Was getting warm so it was handshakes all around.
There wasn’t a clear winner. Stuart the organiser had lost count.
A wonderful turnout at 5 o’clock. Some of our ladies, the colour co-ordinated Marie and Marina let it be known this was their 2nd session of the day. Even Buffalo Bill was spotted in the crowd of runners. Where has he been hiding all week?
Day 7 This was turning into a very quiet day for everybody. This week’s frivolities must be catching up on us.
Well it was until Stuart and Brian got restless again. It was now French Boules on the beach across from the hotel. The usual suspects got involved, Stuart, Brian, Colin and Mark. And for walking by at the wrong time John and Jannette. John is a wiry old fox. His years of chucking boulders around the beaches of Stonehaven would come in handy. As he says, “It’s the same thing really”, really! Stuart had other thoughts, jammy burger or something like that. Stuart and burgers, you know what he is like.
John managed to hold off Brian as the contest came to an end. Brian wanted a championship to his name this year. It was all down to last end. John had 5 wins and Brian 4. Wasn’t to be, Colin sneaked in to win it. The rest were on 3 wins except Stuart who had 1 less than 1, not his sport.
After dinner everybody headed to the Broadway Bar. There was soul music. A couple of lads called Soul to Soul were going to take the stage. They were really good. A first class act. Only thing was they were only on for 45mins. They had everybody up dancing and the group continued strutting the floor even after they had finished. The latest sounds had the younger ones up. Well the ladies anyway.
Day 8 The sun was rising nicely in the sky as the runners headed out for the last time in Fuerteventura. There were no walkers. The ladies decided they would like a long lie and start packing the cases.
From the start Jude and Hugh Laverty were making the pace. I was struggling to keep up with them. This was to be the downfall for Hugh, literally. Half way across the sandy, gravely beach between the two proms he came a cropper when he misjudged his footing and went down quite hard on his hands, knees and elbows. He was quickly up but we could see some blood trickling from a few cuts.
The morning run saw Marina tackling this year’s 5K course on her own. She had missed the race on the Saturday either due to too much food, too much drink but likely too much sun. As we headed off for our run she was doing her warm-up. At 8.15 she took off in her Clydesdale vest. I was heading back when she passed me on her way out. She was fairly shifting. She knew where the turning point was so there was no need for anybody to be there. We trusted her. Most of the lads who were out made their way to the finish to give her support as she came up the finishing straight. She stopped the clock at 21:24. A great time that would have put her 6th in the race.
That was the holiday over. There was the usual hassle with the pick-up, even worse this year due to a double decker bus, and the check-in.
Highlight on the way back was Pamela winning a free drink in a raffle for those who filled in the questionnaire.
This year’s holiday was another great success. The weather stayed fine for the whole week. Haste Ye back.
Cameron Spence.
Caleta de Fuste 5K Road Race
March 9th 2013 Fuerteventura
1st J Boulton M35 18:42 Inv AC
2nd G Montgomery M50 19:03 Clydesdale
3rd H Laverty M55 19:24 Clydesdale
4th M Rudzinski 20:38 Clydesdale
5th P McCrossan F50 20:45 Clydesdale
6th M McCallum F40 21:24 Clydesdale * Ran separate time trial
7th M King M40 21:53 Clydesdale
8th P Rudzinski M60 22:54 Clydesdale
9th S Allison M45 23:11 Clydesdale
10th C Spence M60 23:19 Inv AC
11th H Watson M60 24:15 Clydesdale
12th H Boulton F35 24:21 Inv AC
13th C Duncanson F50 24:38 Clydesdale
14th D Mitchell M65 25:15 Clydesdale
15th J McMillan M65 25:27 Bellahouston Harriers
16th C Gray M45 26:40 Clydesdale
17th B Robertson M50 27:00 Clydesdale
18th J Bannister M50 27:26 Inv AC
19th J Robson M70 38:15 Stonehaven Harriers
Lady Walkers
1st S Rudzinski 42:56
2nd = H Spence & J Pearson 47:11
4th = E McMillan & J Robson 57:06
SVHC Spain Holiday 2013, Hotel Palma Sol, Benalmadena
Reporter: David Fairweather
We were back at the Palma Sol this year, but our group was down to 12. It was pleasantly warm when we arrived on Monday 25 February, but we had to make the most of the good weather as the forecast was pretty dire.
We were able to sit round the pool for most of the day on Tuesday. After dinner we went to Carlos’ Pub. This is one of the few good places still open, and we went there most evenings, as we always got excellent service and were made very welcome.
The 5km race was held on Wednesday morning, by which time it was cold and very windy. It was the usual course along the Torremolinos prom, with a turn at the far end, then back to finish near Burger King.
The sea was breaking over the harbour wall near the start, so we had to be careful on our warm-up. We didn’t have a marshall at the turn, but we all had a rough idea where it was.
Theresa was the only walker, so she started 5min in front of Willie, who was given a 10min start before Roy, with me following 7min later.
The promenade was quite busy as usual, despite the cold conditions. I saw Willie returning, well clear of Roy, but no sign of Theresa. I wasn’t sure where to turn, and probably went a few yards too far, but with my handicap it didn’t make much difference.
Willie finished in 32:07, followed by Roy 26:00 and me 23:22. We then had to go back to find Theresa, who had walked well past the official turn almost into the next bay! So her time of 63min was probably for about 7km!
On Thursday we enjoyed a few games in the hotel garden. These were played with the usual hilarity and lack of expertise. We started with boules, which was won by Bob Burt. Willie won the darts. Then Tommy Tracey won at skittles.
Finally, we attempted croquet, though none of us knew how to play. We made up our own rules, and Allison was declared the winner. All of these provided valuable points for the first 3 in each event.
Friday was probably the best day. We managed to sit round the pool in the sun though it was still only about 15oC. At least it was warmer than Scotland!
On Saturday afternoon 5 brave fancy dress contestants paraded round the pool at 3pm, and one of the waiters judged the event.
Roy was the undisputed winner, as an android. Allison & Ann were 2nd as the Olympian double sculls winners, Katherine Grainger & Anna Watkins.
After dinner on Sunday we had our party night in a private hotel room.
Willie was presented with the 5km road race trophy and Theresa won the trophy for the overall points winner.
We were a bit low on numbers for entertainment, but Roy provided guitar accompaniment and sang a few songs. Theresa and Bob recited a few poems and jokes. A guest, Eric, was again invited to join us and sing a couple of songs, and a good time was had by all.
HOW IT STARTED FOR ME Stage One:
Striding Out
You’re a skinny young boy who really enjoys all sorts of sport. Yet, no matter how hard you try, genuine sprinting speed, robustness and agility are lacking – so you’re rubbish at football (a natural hacker) and too fragile for rugby. Never mind. Every opportunity is taken to rush down to the park and rush around enthusiastically with your friends.
At weekends or in the school holidays, apart from running home for lunch, before hurrying back to the park, it can be virtually non-stop from dawn to dusk. Cricket, rounders, football, tennis, putting. What else? Table tennis, hockey, golf, cycling, climbing hills. Everyone walks everywhere. No lifts from parental taxis in the self-reliant, unafraid 1950s.
Pity you never do well in the annual school sports. Dad says that he had some success in mile races before the war and afterwards in cycle time-trials. He’s even thinner than you, with boundless energy. So you make a real effort to impress in the primary school hundred yards, clawing the air desperately as everyone else sprints away from you. Too slow, alas.
Then, one summer, boys from your street are taking on lads from another in what, nowadays, might be termed a multi-events challenge. After hours of competition, the score is tied at three-all.
What trial can be devised to decide the champion street? Someone suggests a ‘marathon’ – running twice round the outside of the park, an enormous, ridiculous distance! (In retrospect, maybe one and a half miles.) Everyone must start and whoever finishes first will clinch the glory for his team.
They charge away as usual, while you trot along behind. Then something mysterious happens – they all slow down and, keeping the same steady pace, you pass every single one. In fact the second lap is a solo performance and your mates shout, “Well done!” or “You must be mad!” as the imaginary tape is broken. You have never heard of genetic inheritance, but at nine years of age, certainly have something to think about.
At Secondary School, the Sports deserve a capital letter. There is a properly-marked 440 yards grass track and a wooden mini-grandstand for guests and posher parents.
Several days before, heats are run, and you manage to battle through to the First Year 880 yards final. Sadly, you finish eighth and last on the great day.
In Second Year, your time is fifteen seconds faster, but the result exactly the same.
Third Year, however, will be different. At 15, you are permitted to enter the Junior Mile.
Dad race-walks from his work in the city centre and spectates on the final bend, upwind of grandstand gentry. The gun is fired and you launch into full racing stride! Yet a crowd of athletes and rugger heroes barge away from you. It is impossible to go any faster, but you bash on regardless, despite being last after one lap.
This position is maintained at half-way, goading your exasperated father to bawl “Come on, you lazy sod, you can do better than that!” causing shock and chagrin amongst the seated select!
Miraculously, one pace runners can make progress: most of the strongly built optimists crumble and you plod through to a respectable third place in five minutes five seconds. Dad forgives you and strides back to work. Maybe, one day, you will be a proper runner!
Before subsequent Sports, “sneaky training” is discovered. You are already fairly fit, from regularly taking part in a range of sports, but decide to build up for the school mile.
Early diaries note remarkably brief sessions: ten-minute jogs on the playing field; a few hardish laps; and sometimes, before the evening meal, flat-out pavement time-trials round the block, using a normal watch, starting on the minute then, about four minutes later, gasping under a street-lamp, trying to squint at the moving second hand to see if the record has been broken. Add an occasional competitive two mile road run with school athletes and there is a feeling of increased fitness: leg muscles supple, breathing controlled – a general glow.
In both Fifth and Sixth Year, you actually win the Senior Mile and do well in track races against other schools.
You find more pleasure than pain in pre-event nervousness, the warm-up routine, the hard effort and thrill of racing, the satisfaction of success derived from coming first or setting a personal best.
Then you discover cross-country. This is a much tougher prospect. You have to cope with mixed terrain, bumps, mud, obstacles: bad enough at training speed, over three or even four miles, but horrendous when you try to run fast. That lack of agility does not help.
Initial experience of championship racing is gruelling, as you slip, stumble and pant while trying to overtake at least some of the faster starters and strain to maintain effort to the temporary exhaustion of the finish.
Close rivals identify themselves, some of whom will be uncomfortably competitive for years.
School awards ‘full colours’, which transform you into a peacock in a fancy blazer. Some girls admire this.
Coping with disappointment must be learned, although resentful outbursts cannot always be suppressed, even if you feel ashamed afterwards. But there is enough progress to keep you hooked. Running potential should be explored further.
What has motivated you so far? Curiosity, testing yourself, beating others, improving times, prestige.
by Colin Youngson
(The Newsletter always welcomes articles from any SVHC member. Not many of us started this long ago, but why don’t you write a few paragraphs – about how you started running and some early experiences – and email them to us?)
Ridgeway Challenge 85 mile Trail Race 2012
By Ann Bath (RRC 13798 and 26.2RRC/SVHC)
This is a beautiful long distance trail, with over 9000 feet of ascent. It would be my second off road Ultra, having completed the inaugural Thames Path 100 miles from Richmond to Oxford in March. However, this was relatively flat as it followed the Thames for most of the way.
I really enjoy running them in stages both as training and to check the route, and realise what amazing areas there are in Britain available for us to run.
Training for this race also included running some of the North Downs Way, as I had agreed to mark out about 34 miles of it over 2 days for the 100 mile race on 11th.
In retrospect this was excellent training as I had to carry a heavy box of tape, plus a lot of water and food as in places there were no convenient refreshment stops. I had run the Ridgeway in stages from Ivinghoe Beacon to Streatley, realising this was going to be a tough race! There were no course markers, you followed the acorn of the national trail which is well signposted. But I was pleased to have run it previously as I had gone wrong a few times.
It wasn’t really possible to run the second half of about 43 miles in stages as no convenient Stations nearby, so I decided to take my mountain bike on the train to Streatley on the Monday 5 days before the race.
The second half is all bridle way so bikes are allowed, unlike the first half. It was a gloriously sunny day and the views were amazing, although I realised that I’d be running this part in the dark so would miss a lot of them! There were some very rutted sections from the off road vehicles that are allowed at certain times of year.
The forecast for the race weekend unfortunately was rather dire, so I sent off for a new waterproof jacket that folds down to a small ball, a new rucksack that takes 2 bottles, lots of useful pockets and place for my jacket, and a new pair of very light shorts again with useful pockets, to wear over my compression tights. So broke all the rules of wearing new things in a race without practising them first as they only just arrived in time!
Waiting at Tring Station for the pick-up (I had opted for the 12 noon start as really thought I would get in under 24 hours) I saw the early starters going past!
After registering and leaving my drop bag (I was running unsupported) we had about a mile to walk up to Ivinghoe Beacon. It started raining and the chalk was already very slippery.
Off at 12 noon and my aim was to run about 10 –11 min miles to start and then about 12 min miles. Was feeling good at 1st check point and my aim was to have water and some food on the hour and an energy drink on the half hour.
Analysing the splits afterwards at check point 3, 24.5 miles had averaged 12:12 minute miles.
As predicted the weather got a lot worse: heavy rain, wind, thunder and lightning. Then I reached the huge field full of cows with their calves – when I’d checked out this part I had done a long detour to avoid them but now had to run through. As they seemed to not be spooked by the thunder and lightning I guessed I’d be safe! I was very thankful for my expensive new jacket.
At 31.7 mile check point about 12:30 min miling so all going OK, and soon crossing the manicured fairways of Nuffield golf course and into the famous Grim’s Ditch.
Running and chatting to a young guy but on nearing North Stoke he said “I’m stopping here, there’s a pint of cider waiting for me in the pub!” I thought silently “mine’ll be a red wine please!” but sensibly went off alone to South Stoke, where it looked different at night and got confused ending up in a car park, stupidly didn’t get the compass out, saw the Ridgeway sign and carried on a good mile, then saw a runner coming towards me who said I was running back to North Stoke! Moral: what’s the point of carrying a compass and not using it if unsure!
So I stuck with him and saw where I’d gone wrong. Eventually, rather later than planned and very wet, got to Goring aid Station. It was dark and I’d been using my smaller head torch but got my really bright new Pezel one from my drop bag. Had jacket potato, beans and cheese then sponge and custard and coffee. Changed my socks but rather pointless as back into soaking wet shoes (I didn’t bring a spare pair as thought drop bags needed to be small, although saw one as large as my “round the world” huge rucksack!).
Kept hearing talk about people not venturing out as weather so awful – in fact it did appear from the results that a lot packed at the half way point.
So off again, met up with a runner who also cycled, like me, so we had a good chat, then later met up with the chap who had earlier saved me from going the wrong way! He was a Ridgeway regular and knew it very well, so I ran / powerwalked with him during the rest of the night.
I knew my partner Steve would be pleased to know I had company. At the 61.5 mile check point he said “should be on for 23 hours”. I realised by now I wouldn’t get my ideal goal of 22 hours , or if not achievable then goal 2 was to get under 24 hours. But by the 69.4 mile check point we seemed to be slowing and he changed the “ETA” to 24 hours. It was great having the company and chatting a lot, but realised we seemed to be going slower and slower, and at 79.9 miles said to him we’d taken nearly 4 hours to do 10.5 miles, and it was 11.18am at CP 9.
Theoretically it is 5.1 miles to the finish but I’d measured it as nearer 6.5 to Avebury village. So using this distance I said that at the pace we’d just done I was seriously worried now that we could miss the 26 hour cut off at 2pm.
I had spoken to Steve who had driven down in the morning and said he’d see me at the last check point at Barbury Castle. So as we neared it I took off my jacket, head torch, extra night clothes and other items ready to give to him, but I couldn’t see our car or Steve anywhere in the car park. So I put the clothes etc back tied round my waist and items back into my rucksack.
As it had been great to have his company most of the night I felt a bit guilty when he insisted I go ahead at my own pace. Amazingly I was able to start running again and felt remarkably strong and was able to run virtually all the way to the finish, overtaking a few on the way which is a great boost!
I did this final section only 7 minutes slower than the first lady Sandra Bowers who finished 8 hours faster than I did!
During this last section I finally saw Steve on his mountain bike, but no pannier or rucksack so could not off load anything to him. Great to see him but I asked him to carry on back up the course and give encouragement to the man who I had left walking slowly, I told Steve what number he was wearing.
It was a lovely mainly downhill run to the finish, I really felt I could push it hard as now had a goal of getting in under 25 hours, finally did 24:54 to a lovely welcome where Anthony the organiser asked “did I handle the cow field OK?!” Then he presented me with the Gold Medal for my W60 age group as it was the National Trail Running Championships.
Offered food and drink and then Steve arrived, he had cheered on David, so I went out hoping to see him come in, waited while Steve went to get the car, felt remarkably good and not at all “queasy” as I had after the 24 hour track race.
My finish time was a lot slower than I’d hoped for, but it was a very hard race in often bad conditions, but I had learnt a lot from it.
Later I heard that David had not finished and sadly had to be picked up not far from the finish so I felt so disappointed for him.
Then we went off to Devizes where we’d booked into a lovely old Inn, our room backed onto the church where they were practising ringing the bells very loudly, but I promptly fell asleep for about 3 hours, nothing would keep me awake! then after a soak in the bath went out, and had a lovely huge vegetarian roast dinner!
THE YEAR SO FAR
In reviewing the first few months of 2013 it’s clear that there have been some outstanding performances by SVHC members.
On the men’s side Kerry-Liam Wilson followed up his great 2012 season by posting the fastest individual leg at the SVHC Relays at Strathclyde Park in January. Then came an excellent run to win the M40 age group at the SAL Masters Cross Country Championships at Forres, followed by repeating this feat at the British Masters Cross Country at Sunderland. Into April and Kerry’s great form has continued with an impressive 51:39 at the Tom Scott 10 miles race.
Also well worthy of mention is Kerry’s ubiquitous clubmate Robert Gilroy who produced an outstanding solo performance to finish overall winner at the Lochaber Marathon in 2:33:19.
And Stephen Allen, while not matching his outstanding season’s best of 2:02.26 in the indoors 800 metres, still came away with a fine silver medal at the European Veterans Indoor Championships in San Sebastian.
However, marvellous as these performances may have been, I think it’s the women vets who have topped the bill so far this year with some breath-taking performances.
First mention must surely go to Laura Mahady, who is featured elsewhere in your Newsletter.
Laura moved into a new age group in February this year and, as many do, has used this as fresh impetus, and to full effect. She took the British Masters W55 Indoor 800 metres title in early March in a new World record of 2:29.66 only to improve the record to 2:27.84 when winning the European Indoors title two weeks later.
And of course no review could ignore the redoubtable Fiona Matheson as she claimed the headlines yet again with another superb performance at the Tom Scott 10 miles road race.
Already a world record holder at various distances, both indoors and out, Fiona demolished the existing UK Age group record with 58:08.
Second in the Tom Scott with a fine 58:18 was the multi-talented Joasia Zakrzewski. Seemingly at home over any distance, she continued her preparation for this year’s Comrades Marathon in South Africa with a runaway victory in the Lochaber Marathon. On a day which wasn’t designed for fast running, Jo broke the course record by over 4 minutes, winning in 2:45:55.
With a PB of 2:41:21 one imagines that with the proper guidance Jo could get inside the Commonwealth Games qualifying time of 2:40.
Alastair Macfarlane
OFFICE BEARERS SEASON 2013-2014
Honorary President: ROBERT DONALD
President: ALASTAIR MACFARLANE 7 Andrew Avenue, Lenzie, G66 5HF Tel: 0141 5781611 almacrun@btinternet.com
Immediate Past President: PETER OGDEN 16 Springhill Road Glasgow, G69 6HH Tel: 0141 7711950
Vice-President: ADA STEWART 30 Earlsburn Road, Lenzie, G66 5PF Tel: 0141 5780526 stewart2@ntlworld.com
Honorary Secretary: CAMPBELL JOSS 25 Speirs Road Bearsden, G61 2LX Tel: 0141 9420731 cdjoss@tiscali.co.uk
Honorary Treasurer: STEWART MCCRAE 17 Woodburn Way Balloch Cumbernauld. G68 9BJ Tel: 01236 728783 stewart047@hotmail.com
Membership Secretary: DAVID FAIRWEATHER 12 Powburn Crescent Uddingston, G71 7SS Tel: 01698 810575 djf@dfairweather.plus.com
Handicapper: PETER RUDZINSKI 106 Braes Avenue Clydebank. G81 1DP Tel.0141 5623416 p.rudzinski@ntlworld.com
Committee Members:
JOHN BELL Flat 3/1, 57 Clouston Street Glasgow G20 8QW Tel. 0141 9466949
ROBERT DONALD 3 Manse Road Bearsden, G61 3PT Tel: 0141 9422971
PHYLLIS HANDS 39 Albany Drive Lanark ML11 9AF Tel. 01698 252498
ANDY LAW Euphian, Kilduskland Road Ardrishaig Argyll. PA30 8EH Tel. 01546 605336
PAUL THOMPSON Whitecroft, 5 Gareloch Brae, Shandon, Helensburgh G84 8PJ Tel. 01436 821707
BMAF Delegates Alastair Macfarlane Ada Stewart
SAL West District Delegate Willie Drysdale
SAL Delegate at AGM Ada Stewart
Auditor George Inglis
FIXTURES
MAY 2013
Wed 1st Snowball 4.8m road race 7:30 pm. Coatbridge Outdoor Centre. Convener Ada Stewart
Sun 5th SVHC Walter Ross 10km 1:30pm Cartha Rugby Club
Sat 18th Bathgate Hill Race, 2:30pm
Sat 18th BMAF Road Relay Champs Sutton Park, Birmingham
Fri/Sun 24/26th EVAA Non-Stadia Championships – Upice, Czech Republic
JUNE 2013
Wed 5th Corstorphine 5 miles RR 7:30 pm. Turnhouse Rd, Edinburgh
Sun 16th SAL National Masters T&F champs SAL National 10,000m champs Grangemouth Stadium
Sun 16th BMAF 5k Road Championships – Horwich
Sun 23rd BMAF Pentathlon and 10k Track Walk/ Run Champs – Horspath, Oxford
Wed 26th SVHC 5km road race. 7:30pm. Playdrome, Clydebank
Sun 30th BMAF Throws Pentathlon Championships – Allianz Park (Copthall, Barnet) TBC
JULY 2013
Sat/Sun 27/28th BMAF Decathlon/Heptathlon, 10k Track Run (men) – Horspath, Oxford
AUGUST 2013
Sun 18th British Masters Athletics Federation 10 km Road Race Championships (Incorporating SVHC Glasgow 800) 11am. Cartha Rugby Club
SEPTEMBER 2013
Sat/Sun 14/15th BMAF Track & Field Championships – Alexander Stadium, Birmingham
OCTOBER 2013
Sun 6th Neil McCover Half Marathon (inc. SVHC Champs) 9am Kirkintilloch
15th /27th World Masters Track & Field Championships Porto Alegre, Brazil
Sun 20th SVHC 10km track 1:00pm. Entries to Alastair Macfarlane at almacrun@btinternet.com before Fri 18th Oct. Entry fee £2 on day SVHC AGM 2:00 pm. Coatbridge Outdoor Centre.
Sun 27th BMAF Marathon Championships – Newcastle
NOVEMBER 2013
Sat 16th British & Irish Masters XC Champs Cardiff or Swansea TBC
