August 2008

Royal Dartmouth Regatta Road race - Sunday, 31 August

Just back from a wonderful week in Strete near Blackpool Sands Dartmouth.

This was an extended family get together with the Royal Dartmouth Regatta acting as the catalyst and surprise surprise it had an associated 5.1 mile road race, not to mention many things nautical and aeronautical, including air displays by the Red Arrows, an air ripping Typhoon display and much much more, a great family day out, made better by great weather and cream teas (couldn't find any local tarts Rick!),

The field was quite small, around 170 which seemed to comprise mainly of club runners and for the first time my elder sister, our first race together!

For those that know Dartmouth the course can only go one way from the quayside and that's up, up and more up. Starting from near the back, my usual excessive pace was quickly subdued by "The Hill" starting after only 300m it went on for a further lung busting 1.5 miles, at the top the course did a small 2.5 mile loop made more difficult with 3 short sharp undulations that really sapped ones energy and determination to keep going, after that it was all down hill to the finish.

I was pleased with my 40th place but more pleased by my big sister's 80th place which gained her 2nd place in the female Vet 50. The time as you would guess was not a PB but a respectable 37:12, and no where near the sub 26min set by some mountain antelope back in 1983.

Mike Petty 37.12

Phil & Friends Challenge Ride - Sunday, 31st August

Ex President (Phil Liggett) of the Cycling Tourists Club (CTC) annual charity ride, a 105 or 150k ride around the Peak District.

A long weekend in the Peaks sold this both to Karen and to Stuart Brown, Stuart could at least claim some work related connection by spending Friday at the Chatsworth Show. We didn¹t have an excuse so left Thursday afternoon!

Friday we rode from Hope over to Bakewell for a Tart - excellent fuelling stategy! Saturday we met up with some walking friends in cafe (large slice of treacle tart) before a 7 mile walk over to Edale Valley before returning to cafe for more tart! We later met up with the Browns for more food - this time followed with sticky toffee pudding!

So the morning of the ride found us groaning under the weight of two much food - including a cooked breakfast that morning! We needn¹t of worried, we needed all that fuel and more to get round some of these hills.

This was one of the first long rides in challenging terrain (and conditions) that Karen and I had attempted on the tandem. We certainly learnt a thing or two - one we can climb up 20% hills (and overtake people) but also that the brakes are not good enough for going down 20% hills. The brakes all locked up and we were not slowing down!

The day started grey and overcast and got worse, with wet roads and fog to add to the general fun! Unlike other events that I have done this year the Glossop Cafe and its chip butty goes down as one of the best fuel stops - way better than a gel!

Karen and I did the 105k and left a hour after Stuart who was riding the longer, hillier 150k. We finished almost together but Stuart had forgone the chip butty.

A long ride which I think took a long time. Climbed some big hills - slowly - Mam Tor and Holme Moss (Stuart also climbed several more), finish was good to get to with hot tea, more cakes and a warm welcome from the rest of the Brown family.

Rick

Bedford Olympic Triathlon - Sunday, 24th August

This was my first olympic distance triathlon. An early Sunday morning start and then the rain to wake everybody up. After a relaxed briefing, off with nervous trepidation into the murky River Ouse. The instructions were keep to the middle which was a wise move. A good swim which is my strong point and then off to Shefford and back on the 40 k bike ride. Not my strongest discipline but a creditable 1hr 29 mins. Finally the 10k, three laps of the embankment with very tired legs. I finished in 2hrs 49 mins. Thanks for all the support from my parents (Phil is never going to do one), Martin Beare, Steve James (You'd never get me in the Ouse) and Steve Morales (6th in the the mini tri).

Joanna Clarke

Moulton 10K - Sunday, 24 August

Having studied the Olympics carefully I had a choice of 2 strategies for this race:

(i) The Kenenisa Bekele strategy- Front run from 5k then completely destroy any remaining opposition with a sprint to the line commencing 500 metres from home.

(ii) The Catherine Nderebe attack - Keep out of trouble by running just behind the pack; then move to the front when everyone is busy trying to predict the tactics of the opposition

Being the only guy to be given a ladies medal in the Chicks Chase; i decided to give in to my feminine side; follow Catherine's tactics and run just behind the pack (of around 100 other runners); then with just 2k to go i decided to make my move. Unfortunately it gained me only 3 places and I ended up in 97th place;

PB though!

Robbie

Bella 5K, Bellahouston Park, Glasgow - Sunday, 17 August

As I am having to spend a lot of time up in Scottishland at the moment, I thought I had better try and do some running! A quick check on local races threw up something called the 'Bella 5'. At first I thought I had strayed onto a Les Dawson Tribute show, however it was in fact a 5K round Bellahouston Park in Glasgow, in the shadow of Ibrox Stadium.

This was an extremely well-organised race by the Bellahouston Road Runners - one of the larger clubs in the country. There was a good friendly atmosphere, relatively flat course and some typical Scottish weather to contend with. Considering the race only cost a fiver, to receive water, Red Bull, a banana, chocolate bar, medal and Asics wicking cap, this would have to be described as great value for money.

What I thought was a really good idea was that, in the spirit of environmentally friendly running, they were encouraging runners to return their race numbers at the end for recycling, offering spot prizes as an incentive. This just added a nice touch and I am sure someone I know could provide some prizes if we were to adopt this.......

As for negatives, the only one was - yet again - my official time. I seem to be making a habit of getting a very bad spot this year, again being the difference between achieving a landmark. However, a narrow PB was some consolation.

George Arbuckle 19:06 PB

Ride to the Horns, 85 miles - Sunday, 17th August

Another ride in the Chilterns, this time starting over in Mentmore and riding over some of the classic climbs - Whiteleaf, Bison Hill, The Hale, The Crong to name a few! Some short and steep some longer and not so steep, either way it hurts the legs.

One of the few rides/event where we could actually dispense with our rain jackets! The event had been organised in association with Mark Webber the Formula One driver who also rode the event. He is something of a keen cyclist and uses it as part of his overall training programme. He was certainly accessible and was spending time with most of the finishers. Three routes where on offer including a 7 mile family ride.

Event start/finish was Mentmore which for those of you running the Leighton 10 it¹s at the top of the hill! Bit of a carnival atmosphere as the event was a charity one, with local bike shop, red bull, local restaurant, local stall holders, balloon races all enjoying the rather warm afternoon. A coffee followed by a beer sitting on the green made it all rather pleasant!

Good route with some good scenery, with flat bits as well as those hilly ones. Could have done with a few more miles in the legs - none of us had ridden any distance since the etape.

Mike Petty, Stuart Brown and I all rode together and finished in about 5.30 (results to be confirmed).

Rick

Shaftesbury 25 miles TT - Saturday,16th August

The 25 miles Bike TT event was held at Newmarket on the A11 & A14. Due to the time of year it meant that the competition for places was going to be tough. This was the strongest field of Ladies Bike Riders that I have competed against. All with the same aim, to improve in the National 2 distance or National 3 Distance Ladies BBAR Compeition.

The first 12.5 miles was into a head wind whilst the last 12.5 miles was into a tail wind, which meant after the turn I was averaging 25 miles per hour.

My time for 70 mins 21secs was a 6 mins 30 secs improvement in my years best. It also looks like my 2 distance BBAR event of 25 miles and 50 miles, will put me in the top 50 national rankings.

This was one of my last TT events of the year and only have a hilly TT left in September.

I will be hoping to move back to running within the next couple of weeks, so will hope to see you all at club night on a Tuesday.

Debbie Knott 70 mins 21 secs, 17th lady 

Caldicote Lake 5K - Thursday, 14 August

A late change in the published date for this event and practically zero publicity guaranteed a pathetically small field for what was once a highly popular event. Indeed without a posting on the Flyers forum I suspect the number of runners would have been in single figures. It does seem odd that having invested in chip timing systems, not to bother with any significant publicity to recoup your investment e.g. a listing in Runners World.

The evening was billed as 2 races; the Chicks Chase starting at 7PM and the Men Only race at 8PM. The Chicks Chase started on time but then, for whatever reason, they sent off 7 male runners at 7:10PM, followed half an hour later by 6 more. They then amalgamated both sets of times together.

In both the Chicks Chase and the Men Only race a lack of marshals in the right place (near the new town houses) led to some wrong turns, lost places and and about 30 seconds added onto times. In the second men's race there was also a consistent 15 second discrepancy (in the runners favour) between the chip times and their garmin times. Did someone forget to press the start button on the timer?

Heartbeat events who used to run the Men Only, the Chicks Chase and other successful events has recently become part of Blacksheep Sports, the new organisers. On this evidence Blacksheep really need to pull their fingers out.

I've got to say that all the staff I met were more than helpful, indeed they were a friendly bunch who more than went the extra mile (3.1 miles surely?) for me on the day, so I should really feel pretty guilty about writing such a damning review, but at the end of the day friendliness and enthusiasm are no substitute for proper planning and decent organisation.

Rob 'the Grinch' Craig

Mazda London Triathlon - Sunday, 10th August

Myself and team Boxfit Tri started our journey to London (Excel)at 4.30am as our bike racking and transition set up was scheduled for 5.30am. As we crossed the Thames the river looked cold, choppy and bleak, as was the weather with high winds and driving rain, the sudden realisation of the race ahead just added to the nerves and excitement, my already full bladder was just feeling fuller.

This race was my nominated "A" race of my year and it was important to me and my last chance to beat my coach and mentor before the end of the season, i had come close all year.

4,000 competitors had raced the previous day in the sprint distance, Sunday saw the Olympic distance (1,500 swim, 40k bike and 10k run)

I decided to go in the more difficult men's open category i.e. men all age groups. 7,000 competitors in 11 wave starts.

My wave start assembled and we were summons to the river, we had to swim to the centre of the Thames ready for the starter, it was a straight out and back course, i had decided to start from the front of the pack to avoid the all to familiar punching and kicking common on these mass starts. I made good progress and was pleased with a solid, consistent swim given the choppy conditions, I was in the leading pack exiting the water on my way to transition.

Thankfully i had done my homework and had familiarized myself with the location of my bike etc, (not easy in a building the size of an aircraft hanger and 7,000 bikes)

After a slick transition i soon found myself on the closed roads on the bike course (The Westminster route) apart from some technical bits around the Excel building it was fast open roads, i pushed hard and my quads felt as if they were going to explode as the lactic acid built in the legs. Returning back i did some drills on the bike to prepare my self for the run ie stretching the calfs and standing up on the peddles to stretch out the back in preparation for the 10k run, at this point i also took on board another energy gel and fluids to see me through to the finish.

I was back into transition for a quick change into my running shoes and was going to push hard on the run, at this point i knew i was on for a good time and was delighted to find my back had not gone into spasm as it often does coming off the bike (being tucked in the airo position) I Was elated to find no such problem. the run was trouble free and i enjoyed every bit of it as i was feeling strong throughout and it was great passing so many exhausted triathletes young and old.

I entered the Excel building for the last time to a roaring finish with the thousands cheering, clapping and cameras flashing, what a race and experience. I clocked in at 2.28.10 Well inside the magical sub 2.30 time.

Not only that but i was 1st home from our team even beating my coach and mentor by 3 mins. If that was not good enough London now tell me that i have won the right to race in future Olympic distance in the sub 2.30 race.

For me it does not get much better and a great way to finish of a good season of Triathlon.

I now make my back to the running and start my preparations for the Ironman in Switzerland and the ultimate challenge.

My splits were:- Swim 28.42,  Bike 01.12.56, Run 41.39

Total time including transition 2.28.10

I was 95th overall in the mens open olympic disance out of 1083 finishers (top 10 percent)

Martin Beare

Bearbrook 10K - Sunday, 10 August

Probably not too many races about that have quite as much advantage in the second half of the course.

The last 4 kilometres are pretty much either a gentle downhill or flat which, combined with a not too undulating first 5 kilometres, has the potential for some reasonably speedy times. Without mojo I was never going to achieve too much however, I rarely put in a positive split for the second half of any race and yet achieved it on this course.

Paul was flying but was hoping for nearer to 33 mins.  Blustery conditions and with him stuck in no-man's land made it a big ask.  Paul Barton was racing his 37th race of the year (!!) and it's always a pleasure to see the Bird's representing the club.

The only other attendee from the club...............the start/finish inflatable, with Stu Brown emblazened all over it!  Post race the wind really picked up but the inflatable remained intact. Confidence boosting should a similar scenario occur during one of our own events.  It is one of those races that I would like to attempt in a more enthusiastic mood as it certainly has lots of fast potential.

Ady

Salisbury 5-4-3-2-1 Trail marathon - Sunday, 10 August

Richard Jones and I ran what was advertised as a trail marathon, going over or past various landmarks which gave rise to the name ie 5 rivers etc. From the off we had a plan to walk all the hills and in all probability put in the slowest ever marathon time for us both. We are running a 56 mile London2Brighton ultra in 8 weeks and this was part of the training plan for that. Time on our feet and the ability to be able to run big miles this week meant we achieved our aim with a personal worst time for us both by a significant margin! Straight from the off we hit a narrow trail up a hill in the first Km which led to everyone walking up. Last years race reports suggested not many water stops, which they very efficiently remedied with 3 stops in the first 8 miles alone. We wound our way around the outskirts of Salisbury on a mixture of tarmac and off road, before hitting the only true trail section in the middle. The route led us along a good mix of woodland, open fields, flat and hills, all of which was very well signposted. Some very nice views on some sections of the route. Indeed, the route was well marked all the way and we only had to glance at the map we were given once or twice and that was only really to get a feel of where we were rather than find our way. For such a large area off road, the organisers need a big pat on the back for that. There was a very good level of support from the marshals at the checkpoints, who were all cheerful and helpful. The race included various smaller runs including 10k, 20k and 30k as well as a lot of long distance walkers. No support at all on the route though, with two girls waving ice creams at us at the 21 mile mark being the first ones.

 Welcome surprise at the 15 mile mark to find cakes and other bits and pieces. As we were not running fast, it was nice to be able to stop and have a chat with other runners whilst we indulged. More cakes and similar at other stops as well. Only real problem was down to me having a curry the night before. The cake and drink mix set something off and at 16 miles I found myself in the middle of the trail crossed legged holding on for dear life. Luckily RJ found some toilet tissue and I was momentarily saved, before a repeat performance two mile’s later which was luckily right by a pub! Not sure if it was the chicken jalfrezi the night before or the mars bar, energy drink and two peanut butter sandwiches I had for breakfast! My advice, stick to pasta!

 The final 3^rd took us over a lot more tarmac than we would have liked before running past Salisbury cathedral and down the middle of their High Street which was full of shoppers and tourists who looked at us like we were from another planet. That was a bit of a strange end to a trail marathon but hey ho, there you go. Good feel to this event despite too much of it in town and on the road. There was a smallish filed of about 200 or so, with some grizzled veterans on parade. Lots of 100 club members were there and my measly 13 marathons seemed insignificant compared to some of them. There were also a number who were not that experienced and that led to a good mix and made the day seem pressure less. Nice buttie and massage at the end. Took 1 hr 50m to get there from Flitwick although 3hr plus to get back. As for our time, it was around the 4hrs 50m mark, although at least 15m of that was down to my call of nature pit stops!! I would recommend this race on the whole, although even if you run the hills be prepared to forget any idea about Pb’s and fast times, which is part of its charm in a way.

Paul Owen

Alpine KIMM, Praz de Lys (near Chamonix) - Sat/Sun, 9/10 August

Brian Layton & Steve Smith: Day 1, 19K in 5-46-10 for 170 points. Day 2, 20.5K in 5-34-41 for 220 points. Total 390 points. 16th overall & second M50 team.

David Sedgley & David Peregrine: Day 1, 21K in 5-50-25 for 190 points. Day 2, 18K in 5-10-30 for 180 points. Total: 370 points. 19th overall and second V60 team.

We had a great time in this super area - with clear blue skies all weekend. There were some very stiff climbs, with fantastic views of Mont Blanc. Eleven British teams took part, the winners being a mixed pair from Wales - with 690 points. Both Claudie and David P's wife were there for the weekend, they helped with translation and thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere, the camaraderie at the overnight camp, and the views. They say they'll be back next year!

David

Cranfield (County) 5M - Friday, 8 August

The cool, windless conditions made ideal running weather on Friday. The first half of this course is flat and fast but the second half is undulating leaving finishing times slower than expected however most flyers recorded PBs. This is a Beds AAAs organised event which relies on local clubs to provide marshalls so thanks to Jeremy Bell and his cohorts for directing the finish area. The inflatable arch looked great and left runners in no doubt as to where the finish line is!

The BBQ and jazz band were great and there was a well attended fun run for the kids

Andy Atherton

In late June the Flyers got a call for help from Beds AAA, they needed helpers to man the finish at the Cranfield 5 in August. As I had got help from County officials to timekeep and referee at the Ampthill Trophy I put my hand up to volunteer to get a small team together and return past favours. Although it was in the middle of holiday season a good crew of volunteer Flyers turned out and did a great job of organising the finish - and also assisting with the start and the kids fun-run.

As well as our timing gear we also used the Flyer's inflatable finish arch. That certainly got a lot of attention - it's a whopper!

The proof of the pudding was that the whole event ran really smoothly and we did a great job of showing how we have willing and capable people who turn out and support the County team. As I was the person who agreed to pick this up and thought it was a good idea to help I'd like to thank all those who turned out and made this work.

So, the roll of honour: Phil & Pauline Bierton, Jim & Helen Dodds, Anthea Cozens, Robbie Craig and Leigh Pilgrim (and not forgetting young Matthew Bell helping to distribute medals).

Thank you all! Jeremy

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 7 August

Well that's it for another year, no more Thursday night madness!

I suppose its almost time to dust of the running shoes and get back out there - Henlow 10 is calling!

A strange night - heavy rain when we left home and drizzle as we set up the bike ready for our warm up. It turned out to be quite sunny, pleasant, warm, with the roads almost dry but hampered by a head wind on the way out. No pb this week after a bit of a run of them but with Karens chemo only last Friday maybe we were pushing things anyway!

Local pro Simon Gaywood put in an appearance and showed us how we should be riding making us all seem very ordinary

Karen & I had started this evening league on the tandem as training for our attempt on the accent of Mont Ventoux. For obvious reasons Ventoux didn¹t happen but the weekly ride became something that Karen was looking forward too, not just the ride but the very social tea and cake afterwards (is this purely a cycle thing or can runners do it too!). In total 120 different riders have turned out over the 13 events,  overall position is calculated on your 5 best10 mile and 4 best 11.3 mile events.

Tonight's results were

So flyers finishing positions in the overall (9 rides)

Other flyers

The winner Maciek Werenko (Magic) finished with a total time of 221.42

July 2008

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 31 July

More of (edited) Mad max:

Evening heartless fluffballs of reduced ability, another strange (that would be "bloody awful" to most of us) night. It had so much going for it, warm and almost still (remarkable)...but the humidity killed any chance of pb carnage and the damp roads just added that frisson of sphincter tightening excitement that makes time trialling special.

Naturally, a few people are still on the way up to finding their level and so would have stuck pb times in even if superglued to one of the Shetland ponies by the start line. Hey ho, several people (all the Flyers!) slapped down considerable pbs on a night when the rest of us were twitching, sliding, cursing and puncturing by the bucketful.

Hope some of you sampled the slippery delights of the mud patch on the bottom corner of the little bridge, what fun. How I laughed while drifting beyond the point called "control". Delightful times we live in.  Also lovely to see so many of you walking back. Within the space of 10mins I passed 6 probable punctures. Almost a procession, the Bunny lane Mardi Gras perhaps?  Night verminous wheelsuckers.

Max gone.

Last Friday of the Month 5K, Hyde Park -  Friday, 25 July

After an epic 6+ hours to run (well, runish..) Greensands, I had a long hard think as to what the best distance would be to run next. The 56miler London-Brighton.......the marathon de sables perhaps???? Nah, I think a 5K will do very nicely, thank you very much!

As I was going to be in some big city called Lundin (or something like that) I thought the Last Friday 5K in Hyde Park would be just the tonic (thanks to Jeremy and Ady's race reports)

With next to no running since Greensands for various reasons, a kick off at 1230 and the hottest and most humid day of the year so far, I was glad it was only 5K. 3 sun worshipping Flyers were there at the start ready for the off. Well, err.....not quite...... Stay tuned for the next edition of the newsletter for Robbie's race report (good plug Goldi....?)

Suffice to say we found it tough with the heat, humidity and tourists who cant walk in a straight line (who let them into Hyde Park anyway........). The course itself I would describe as flat and fast - not very fast due to a few twists and turns - but fast enough for PB territory. All things considered I was pleased with my time and would recommend this race to others. My best achievement? After Greensands, managing to complete the WHOLE race without stopping for a 3 course-meal en-route!

Greensand George

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 24 July

More of (edited) Mad max:

Evening, morning, whatever...  Good conditions warm and dry, but very windy. In fact on the way out so horrendous that the "this far and no more" prize goes to Hutchmeister who turned round for a gloriously self determined DNF.

Perhaps if she had continued on a bit further where the wind started helping she would have joined the numerous others who put in crushing all time pbs (well better than last time out anyway).

La Dunlop surged up the rankings ladder by 30 secs - bell removal finally coming good I hear!

In other less entrancing news...the fast boys did what they normally do...go fast, Maciej shaved 9 seconds off his pb, while being chased by Sam Hayes with a pb at 26.33 and if not for the dropped chain incident Mark Cook would also have crushed his pb. Alas life is cruel and tears are cheap.

The Cook suffered twice - after slamming past me on the slope out of Old Warden he was also held up by horses. So there is justice...except as that enjoyable thought crossed my brain said equines did the same to me and then invited a land rover along to help out even more. Damn. C'est la Richard Guerre.

NSPCC MK Half Marathon - Sunday, 20 July

I had a good run and enjoyed it, still not managed to crack the under 2 hrs yet but maybe next time at the Robin Hood Half in Nottingham.

Stephanie Cooper

Bedford Race for Life 5K - Sunday, 20 July

As always, a very large crowd to support a wonderful charity run held annually in Bedford. Nice cool weather conditions. Someone ran as Scooby Doo, she must have been very warm at the end of the run.

Kally Akhtar 22.15

BUPA Great Captial 10K - Sunday, 20 July

Well, after all the previous 10k races had there problems (Silverstone, Whipsnade and Milton Keynes) I finally managed to get a PB for a 10km!

I took on board and actioned all the advise I had been given from the recent problems I've had and it paid off. I have to say, the weather done its bit as well, plus it was a flat course which helped! But focusing on the run, I managed to get a more comfortable start from the beginning (not the usual "leg it" mode) and this time managed to get to 5km in just over 20mins, but I knew I had to keep up the speed if I wanted to get a good result, its always easier said than done though.

From 5k onwards I decided not to look at my watch, the last thing I wanted was a panic if it wasn't good. I knew in my head I was running well, so If this wasn't a good time, then I've got a lot of work to do for the future.

Usually after hitting 6 to 7km, the "Wall" sets in and I slow up, this time, I managed to continue and at 8km gave it that little bit extra, 9k came and then I soon saw myself hitting the 900 metres to go, 600 metres to go etc. I could see the finishing line, I then blanked the race, fixed my mind on the race track at Redbourne and basically pushed it that little bit more, where the energy came from I don't know, I knew that if my time was bad, I would say "you could have pushed it a little bit more at the end" so instead I just went for it.

I eventually passed the finishing line, stopped my watch and realised I had achieved my goal! I was absolutely knackered, worn out and felt awful, but I was soooooo happy to get this PB.

Leigh Pilgrim: 41 min, 32 sec, PB

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 17 July

Nice to see a few more Flyers taking to two wheels, there are still four more evenings left before the end of the series. Insurance is covered so if anyone else would like to come and join the fun - fruit cake last night was excellent - then come and join us!

More of Mad max:-  Couple of big pb mentions for Unners, Hayton and Juggler (yeah 3 so I cannot count, big deal, planet sized brain for spotting that one), congrats.  Otherwise a spattering of fast and not so fast times on a strangely windy but neutral evening.  Cool and humid some found it good others just plain evil.  A strange one.  Bath, food, laptop sorting, bed, sleep, dreams, morning and happiness regained (as if).  Max, well gone.

Stevenage Race for Life 5K - Sunday, 13 July

My daughter Ashleigh-Louise and I ran the 5K race for life at Stevenage on Sunday 13th July, she ran it in 26 mins I did it in 37 mins, I astounded myself!!!. I would just like to say a big thank you to Annie for all her advice in the nice and easies and Stephen for all his advice with my shin splints, In fact a big thank you to all members for their support and encouragement.

Jacqueline North

The Long Swim 3.9K Box End, Bedford -  13th July 2008

I had no intention of doing this race until an hour before the race start,but only went to spectate and support 2 mates, but as it was a perfect beautiful morning with ideal race conditions, i could not resist having a go, luckily i had my B.T.F race licence on me and wet in the van.

I was going to use the race as training session as i missed my long session on saturday due to work commitments.

This race was always going to be tough not only for the distance but it was a pure swimmers race and attracted some serious swimmers from far and wide.

The course was a simple 3 laps with large markers at every turn, the secret as always on endurance events is pacing which i settled into quite quickly, the only other point to focus on is keep sighting the markers as it is very easy to zig zag thus increasing your distance, not easy when in a large lake with little visual references unlike lanes in a pool.

I exited the lake at the finish in a time of 1.07.13 and 29th overall pleased with the mornings workout.

This was my fist visit to this venue and i must say i was rather impressed with the lake and the facilities with lots of water sports and a posh restaurant and bar etc on offer, might pop along for watersking.

Martin Beare

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 10 July

More of Mad max:  -  10 July 2008 of your uncommonly pointless existence on this silly oblate spheroid (have I used that before, do I care, can you read)?

Later than usual, smellier than ever, dirtier than last time and about as useless as a stats guru can be amongst innumerate filth.

Another excellent turnout (54) on a cool windy evening that was fairly neutral, good out, evil back (well that's my excuse).

As so often the case need all things horizontal, but I'll make do with sleep.  Night and all that stuff.  Gone.

Etape du Tour - 6th July 2008

This has been something of a thorn in my side for the last two years. Each year the Tour de France chooses a stage (etape) to open to the public. This year the stage is from Pau to Hautecam - it will be stage 10 on Monday 14th July. My last two attempts at the Etape du Tour have both ended with being picked up by the broom wagon (too slow!).

This years stage has been described as easier but still formidable!

It is 105 miles long and consisted of two small (category 3) climbs, two out of category climbs and just over 10 hours to do it! So after 60 miles and a visit to Lourdes we arrive at the Col de Tourmalet, a beast of a mountain - 2115m meters high - the highest Col in the Pyrenees. The climb was 17.2k long with an average gradient of 7.4% - steep and long! Also shrouded in cloud so cold, wet and windy - a very bleak place to be.

There was then the descent from 2115m down to 465m - over 5000ft downhill on closed roads over 20 miles - excellent! However we were brought back down to earth with the mountain top finish and another 14k slog up a 7+% climb to the ski station at Hautacam. This climb unlike the last climb seemed to play with you, changing gradient so you couldn¹t get a good rhythm. The sign that said 10% for the next kilometer was a real killer, it also contained one of the steepest sections at over 13%!

This event would have been ideal if it wasn¹t raining for the first hour or so, that the cloud cover didn¹t started at 500m, that you could see the outstanding views and if I had taken my overshoes! On the plus side it was much better than the 30+ degrees that met us at registration.

Near to 8000 riders set out from Pau to conquer this ride and as usual around 2000 didn¹t make it and for once it wasn¹t me! Stuart Brown and Mike Petty made up the team of three riders ably helped and assisted by Julie Brown and Karen Hollingsworth who drove us everywhere and gave us great support, as well as getting chatted up by various Frenchman!

Felt to a degree as if this has been put to be bed now, had ridden every hill and mountain, enjoyed the challenge, thrilled to the long descent weaving down the mountain side and had suffered both physically and mentally on the climbs. Very, very pleased to have finished but nowhere near the elation at having finished the Etape de Legende or climbing Mont Ventoux.

Not sure what¹s next but forever there will be a tingle down my spine of cresting a Col, the vista opening up before you, the bike tipping forward, the speed increasing, your legs resting as your reach for the drops and cover your brakes, eyes and brain calculating your velocity and position as you negotiate the first of many hairpins!

Perspective - winner did it in 5.38 and next weeks Tour will probably do it even quicker!

Princes Risborough 10K - Sunday 6th July

Another Sunday, another race!! "Fresh" from the Humber half marathon and Steve James's Tuesday training "jog" but in slightly adverse conditions - heavy showers and a bit of a breeze - I managed a new personal worst [at least whilst I've been a Flyer]. However, I really quite enjoyed this pleasant, rural and undulating course which started and finished in semi-picturesque Risborough market square. Around 350 

runners braved the elements and dodged the puddles, cheered on by the amazingly numerous crowds and lots of marshals. Much more rain and we'd have been swimming!!!

Jim Dodds 44.13

Cowman Half Ironman, Emberton Park - Sunday 6 July

Well it was 2 weeks ago i raced in the Dambuster Triathlon and it rained the whole race, so i was hoping for a dry day for this tough race, but oh no the height of British summer did its usual thing and rained most of the day (i have cleaned that bit up)

The first of 4 wave starts gathered on the bank ready for the 7.00am start, i nervously made my final adjustments to my goggles and wet suit and took the opportunity to shake the hands of my team mates from Boxfit Tri and Ampthill and Flitwick Flyers and wish them all good luck. Phill Holland was in a relay team for Only Multisport doing the run leg.

Pete Bird, Ricky Jennings, Stephen Warne from AFF like me taking on the whole distance.

I decided on a relaxed start on the swim and let the mayhem fight it out, once i found clear water i turned my twin turbos on and soon found myself picking off the swimmers one by one, i maintained a good race pace with a good split time.

Into transition 1 and onto the bike for the 92k 3 lap course. The conditions wet and windy, the weather was not much better ha ha. I found myself in a pack that was being monitored by a B.T.F referee on a motor bike as there was a lot of drafting going on (not allowed) i decided to push on and not get involved, i was pleased with my progress and felt good and strong despite head winds and loosing my drinks holder and bottles off the bike.

Coming back into transition my bike split was 3.01.50 some 13 minutes ahead of my coach and Boxfit team mate, now it was on to the half Marathon, a 4 lap semi off road course.

On my 2nd lap i was passed by young Phill, he was like a gazelle on heat and words of encouragement was exchanged.

I was delighted to hold my coach Dave off until the last lap and with 5k to go he passed me. I Finished 3 minutes behind him with an overall time of 5.28.49 At the start i could have only dreamed of a 5.30.00 finish so well chuffed to get what i did.

This was a real hard race as the name suggests but it was made easier with the support from the likes of Ady Wadsworth, the Boxfit possie, Niki Holland and the hundreds of supporters that lined the route.

The boys Pete Bird, Ricky Jennings, and Stephen Warne all finished and with respectable times, well done lads.

Phil Holland and his relay team not only came 1st but over half an hour ahead of the nearest rival. (nice one son)

Mark Booth the Event organiser from Big Cow Events yet again staged an excellent event which attracted competitors from across the country.

So its head down for me and some hard training before next months big one The London Triathlon.

Martin Beare

Ampthill Gala Day – Sunday, 6th July

On a drizzly and wet day in July we battled against the elements and the ice cream vendors, put up our gazebo and marked out our territory for the greatest test of athletic ability Ampthill has ever seen.

It was great to see that the local community were not dispirited by the torrential rain and a procession of children, adults, dalmations, pirates, bands and various other creatures came straight by us at approx 1pm giving us maximum exposure and very good publicity for the club.

A bleep test was set up over a 20 metre track whereby the participant does shuttle runs from one end to the next whilst aiming to meet the turning point within the beeps. A total of 20 levels were available and boys and girls of all ages gave their best to compete in their category, despite the poor weather conditions we had 35 entrants (even one in wellies) all receiving encouragement, a sense of achievement, free Gatorade and sweets of their choice.

The overall winners which each received a £5.00 kick off voucher were as follows;

Joshia Herbert Male aged 13 Level 8,  Ethan Clarke Male aged 9 Level 8,  Ernie Mayne Senior Male Level 7 & Clare Wilkie Female aged 11 Level 5

Great thanks goes to: Paul Lydon (chief megaphone operator, singer, bleeper, stall erector etc; etc;), Robbie Craig (chief track tester, checker, motivator, stall erector etc; etc;), Martin Beare (logistics and warehouse manager), Steve Hartley (for buying the beers as well as other very important duties), Helen & Jim Dodds (IT support, refreshment relief and disassembling the stand), Stuart & Julie Brown (for lending of vital equipment) & George Arbuckle (refreshments)

I hope I haven’t missed anyone and huge heartfelt thanks guys for contributing to an overall successful day which will hopefully raise awareness of the club in the community, encourage activity within the youth of today and maybe even help create the next Paula Radcliffe of Ampthill & Flitwick.

Happy 20th Anniversary to Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers, be sure not to miss the final events of the year;

Rebecca Fleckney

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 3 July

A dry, warm evening which should bring out some quick times. There¹s rain in the air and some breeze. Consistency here but would to get a bit faster, maybe next week? Stuart bags another PB - obviously on a roll!

A new arrival ...They come like buses

My best result of the year:  Ruth and I had a beautiful baby daughter in the early hours of yesterday morning (6th). 8ld 6oz. Both are very well. Name TBC.  

Cheers, Rich Pillinger

Amy, Nobby & Christian Farr are pleased to welcome Lily May who was born at Bedford hospital on 1 July at 00:04.  Lily weighs in at 7lb - all are doing well.

Congratulations from us all!

June 2008

Humber Half Marathon - Sunday 29th June

Although disappointingly missing out on the Greensands Relay through visiting friends in Hull, a form of salvation appeared in the shape of the Humber Half marathon. A reasonably large field of just under 1500 runners - including lots of fancy dressers and a group [or is it platoon or something?] of Army Cadets who route-marched around in full gear and packs - set out on an unexpectedly bright and sunny morning across the Humber Bridge, a circuit around Barton and back across the bridge to the finish. The views from the bridge were quite amazing and as it's around 2.25k across you get plenty to opportunity to have a look around before being brought back to reality by the first climb up into Barton. Encouraging crowds and Marshals were in plentiful supply as we swept downhill again through the town and underneath the bridge and then into an extremely long climb back up at 9 miles to access the main road and over the Humber again. I guess the weather made this as it would have been unpleasant going across the bridge in any kind of wind/rain, but this was an excellent race experience, Helen even said that she and our friends enjoyed watching it too!!

Jim Dodds 1.40.09

Greensand Ridge Relay - Saturday, 28 June The main problem with a group of fogies is that memory gets to be a bit of a problem as the years move on. So Andy forgot that it was a bad idea to do a last recce of his part of the route in the gloom and rain on Thursday and turned his ankle (oops, sorry – Andy) . We now had no runner for the 8-mile leg of the relay and no time for anyone else to learn the route. Lots of frantic calling round on Friday and we ended up with two options – Robbie would run a leg for Dave’s team and then switch teams and run the third leg for us otherwise we’d shuffle our pack and Mike Petty would switch from the shortest (leg 2) to the longest (leg 3) and Keith Morgan would run leg 1 as planned and then carry on and run leg 2 as well. I just couldn’t quite feel sure that Robbie would be in the right place at the right time, so decided to take up Keith’s offer as a more straightforward option. Unfortunately he had also forgotten that running the Luton 5-miler the night before was going to leave him pretty knackered on Saturday. So, all a bit fraught – and we hadn’t even started the race yet! Keith was always going to struggle with over nine miles to complete after a 5-miler the night before. However, he hit his main objective – he finished the first leg in front of Ady. A fair bit of pre-race needle had gone into that competition. It seems that some duff navigation cost Ady that particular battle (I’m going to gloss over the details of relative pace and so on and Keith can have his moment of glory). Keith was pretty much running on empty for the next leg, so by the time he handed over to Mike Petty the team were a good way off the handicap times but fair play to Keith, he kept the team in the event with his efforts. Despite not running the route apart from on Saturday morning runs Mike did a sterling job to keep on track and pull a minute back on the time. Jeremy Lewis took the leg that runs through Ampthill and got a bit lost, in Ampthill Park! He wasn’t feeling great and didn’t do as well as he’d hoped for (just one of those days when it doesn’t ‘click’) so on to Phil Clarke for leg 5. Phil was mistakenly told that Jeremy Lewis has overtaken some other flyers and should have been at the changeover point already, but it was just a case of accumulating time behind schedule. It was tempting to assume some calamity and just set off, fortunately he didn’t get too frustrated and waited until Jeremy showed up and then he was off. He pulled back a couple of minutes over his handicap time. Meanwhile at the last changeover point I was getting wound up by all and sundry and struggling to see the funny side. However, once I was off the tension went and I managed a moral-boosting overtake of another team as well as the 3 Flyers solo lads on the way to the finish. A beer and a burger were very welcome at the pub next to the finish. This was my first time doing this event and I’d really recommend it. If you haven’t tried it then get a group together for next year and give it a go. Jeremy B.

As predicted, GRW lived up to expectations. Great atmosphere, nice weather, good organisation and a nice beer/bar-b-cue at the end. Richard Jones, George Arbuckle and myself decided to have a go at the whole distance with one other madman - I mean dedicated ultra runner - also doing so. We knew at the start our rival was game for a race as he asked us if we had trained for it and what were our marathon times! We told him we hadnt and didn't know it was a little under 34 miles or so, just to annoy him. As he sped off at 7 min miling, he fell into our trap. We had decided to let him win before we had even started and thought he could feel the pain and we would enjoy it! I did for the first 27 miles or so. It was a little strange setting off at the start with the 7 or so spectators cheering on our rival, whom we kept pace with for about 10 or 12 metres. The first leg takes you out of Leighton Buzzard along the canal and up into Stockgrove Park and leg two into Woburn, near to Tom Pearsall place. Its hard to get lost on those legs, although our esteemed chairman did his best! Perhaps the section should be named Wadsworth's woe next year? Mike Petty was there early on looking to steal a march on his rivals. We were well shaded for a long way through the woods and thanks to the sterling efforts of Just Jones, had water stops all along the way - along with rice pudding (twice), peaches(once) bananas(lost count) and mars bars(ditto). We knew we would be caught, which we were for the first time at the handover at the end of leg three. Still, nice to see Dave Olney (and another much prettier Flyer whose name I dont know- sorry Dave ) at that point with welcome words of encouragement and subsequently all the other flyers at the other handovers. That was the longest leg and it was good to do it early on. The fourth leg took us through the familiar territory of Ampthill Park, across to Maulden Woods and up to Deadmans Hill. There were quite a few people at that point, including a worried Phil Clarke who thought he might not be able to catch us. He didn't! The smell of the bacon butties form the fast food wagon almost made me stop.Up through Clophill and past Pillinger corner - the only place where it really is impossible to get lost (eh Richard) - took you across an open field to the last handover point and then homeward bound for Northill. Saw Sedgers on the way, in the distance with a cup of water. When we got there, he wouldn't give us any and said he was saving it for someone who was making an effort!! The last leg was for me quite hard, with Just Jones and Greensands George doing their best to take my mind off things. Lads, at 32 miles I aint going to talk to Oprah Winfrey, let alone you two. And the finish. Boy was it good to get there. Bit surprised to beat two teams, which was an unexpected bonus. Star flyer of the day? Robbie Craig, who walked around from the pub with a tray of beer and crisps, which meant I didn't have to move more than 10 feet from the end for at least twenty mins. When we did, the crowd outside the pub was jovial and good natured. Very nice touch for Robbie to organise medals for the Flyers at the end, although personally I think my blister deserved one all of its own. This really is a good, fun relay event that attracts all abilities. The Flyers had by far the biggest presence and I hope next year there are even more. It certainly helped us to see so many friendly faces and the mickey taking is all part of the fun. Only another 12 months to go Ady. As for times, the 3 Amigos did it in 6 hours 14 mins. We would have been half hour quicker, if it wasn't for the three course meal stops. Next stop, London to Brighton in October. Only 56 miles ......... Oh dear , got to go. Need to start training for that one right away!! Pablo the Taff Owen

Extract from Luton AC Report 28th June

Middle Distance athlete Tim Harris had a busy afternoon. He began with a runaway victory in his main event, the 800m, in 1m 56.8s. Tim then ran a Personal Best 51.2s in the 400m, and filled in the B string 200m, finishing 3rd in 24.5s. He showed his versatility in running a leg in the 4 x 100m and had the fastest leg of the 4 x 400m relay.

Peter Benedickter junior returned to competition following sickness to get 2nd place in the B string 1500m, with 4m 21.0s. Peter will be running 3000m the English Schools Championships at Gateshead on the 11th and 12th of July. Dad Peter ran a Seasons Best 59.3s in the 400m Hurdles. Peter senior then ran the final leg of the 4 x 400m relay, despite an ongoing injury to his leg, which restricts his training. The Benedickter family have struggled all week, suffering from the E-Coli outbreak, recently given a lot of media coverage.

Gerry Gough Acting Southern Men's League Manager. 29/06/2008

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 26 June

A wonderful day until we arrive at the club house, when a faint drizzle appears - great start!

Not helped by finding a puncture when taking the bike out of the garage!

Also found a piece of sharp stone embedded in the front tyre which left a rather large hole when taken out - new tyres needed!

By 7.17 (our start time) the drizzle had moved onto a spotty type of rain driven by the ever increasing wind! This wasn¹t going to be a good night.

However Karen was obviously feeling keen after walking her leg of the Greensands Ridge (and beyond) and my legs were positively eager after a 85 mile bike ride the day before which seemed to consist of battling into a headwind most of the time!

Anyway we had a good start and rode the first half quite quick and then getting the benefit of the wind as we turned west. Coming off the last hill the rain decided to really pick up just as we came across several other racers. We overtook 16 (our minute man) then 15 and 7 and 5! We were flying and looking good for a pb, however we were brought down to earth when number

23 came past (he started 6 minutes behind us and we still had two or three miles to go!

We made the best time we could as we turned into the head wind at Cople and finished just 3 seconds down - a good ride for the conditions though.

Thoroughly thrashed by the winner coming in 7 minutes ahead!

AXLR8 - Wellington College Triathlon - Sunday, 22 June

After 5 years away form the Triathlon scene 10kg heavier and now a vet I joined the Flyers. I have been participating in the sessions since Easter and found the improvement in my fitness very encouraging. I am still carrying too many kilos but have gone from staggering around the Flitwick 10k in just under 43 minutes to winning my first Triathlon in the Vet Category and coming 5th overall. 

I was also fortunate enough to be in the winning team for the Relay event at the weekend – a really enjoyable event.  A big thanks to the club for the organised sessions and getting me motivated again.

Sprint Triathlon 3, Emberton Sprint Distance (6-Jul) - 750m / 20km / 5km 1:14:02

Steve Morales

The DAMBUSTER Triathlon 2008, Rutland Water - Saturday, 21st June

The Dambuster Triathlon is commonly regarded as one of the best but one of the toughest Triathlons in the calender with a hilly and technical bike course to nagotiate, and also famous for its "Rutland Ripple" a set of 3 hills.

The Dambuster Triathlon is set to the backdrop of Britain,s largest man made lake and the beauty and tranquility of the Rutland countryside, This tough event sees the race cut a swathe through the serenity of Rutland.

Base camp, race HQ, transition 1&2 and race start and finsh focussed around Anglian Waters Whitwell site.

Myself my coach and 1 other member of my Tri club decided to go up the day before the race due to the location and the 5.00 am Transition set up on race day, thus meaning not being able to do the job of lead bike on the AFF Marston Vale 5K (thanks Ricky Jennings for doing the job for me)

At 7.00 am 4 sepatate wave starts formed, making 500 competitors in total.

The race kicked off with a 1,500 meter lake swim with markers and marshalls in boats leading the way towards the Dam on an out and back course.

I paced my self well on the swim and tried to hold back and save some for the bike and run to come. i was pleased with my slit swim time of 28.38 chip timed, then running to transition 1 while taking off a wet suite (not easy) also trying to identify your bike amongst 500 other bikes (not easy) then on with bike shoes, numberbelt, helmet and glasses (timed) exit transition and on to the 42k bike course,

I was so angry and frustrated to find that my tinkering with my gear set the night before had not done me any favours (the old adage if ant broke dont fix it, ringing in my eares) my chain came of 3 times in the early stages and wipped away my good start. I pushed hard in the driving heavy rain and was pleased with the remainder of the bike. 1.22.37

Leaving the bike back at T2 it was then on to the 10k run which i was looking forward to as my aim was to pick up some places, but as i soon found out my lower back went into spasm which lasted the whole 10k, i was forced to stop 6 times in agony, but i made it to the finish with a run split of 44.58

Dispite my problems i enjoyed the event and as ever the organisers (Pace Setter Events) did a brill job in staging this famous UK ranking race, and the hundreds of spectators made for a great atmosphere.

As ever my coach acquitted himself well and made it look like a walk in the park and i suppose it was after his recent ironman in Lanzarote, My other team mate paul did very well, not only was it his fist olympic distance but it was his fist ever triathlon.

We will all return next year eger to improve our times and close sporting rivalry.

Martin Beare:  1,500 Open swim 28.38,  24k Bike 1.22.37,  10K Run 44.58,  Total chip time including transitions 2.38.50

Marston Forest 5K - Friday, 20 June

As the Deputy, Assistant, Executive, DogsB to our exalted Race Director Ms Val von Arx, it was both an illuminating and rewarding experience to be at the centre of arrangements for this year’s Marston Forest 5k. Like many a Flyer I have been involved in many races both as a competitor, and as a helper so to be at the ‘centre’ of arrangements was quite an experience.

The most rewarding element of the whole process was the way in which so many Flyers gave so willingly of their time, their knowledge and their experience which resulted in this years Marston 5k being I am advised the most successful yet.

With the race entries closed a couple of days before the event, it was good to know so many people had viewed this race as being one worth running in, especially as the tracks and the paths (well most of them) around Marston had been radically improved since last year. As a result course records being set in both the Mens and Ladies races was testimony to the great nature of the course itself and the preparation that went into making it so.

Val and her team are to be complimented in the professional way the race was conducted. I received several plaudits from competitors post race to say what a great evening it had been.

So where should such plaudits be directed? First and foremost to Val especially as this was her first bash at being Race Director. The Chief Marshal Ann de Winter superbly marshalled her respective teams including the Start team under the direction of Chris Jennart, the Finish Team ably marshalled by Tony Cole, Race Secretary Rebecca Fleckney, Race HQ Director Robbie Craig, and not forgetting Gandalf himself Mr Phil Bierton who worked his usual magic in producing the results, and earlier in the week measuring out the course (a special note of commendation to Alex Maldar the results runner, who by the end of the evening looked as if he had run the race five times).

Of course none of this would have been possible without the efforts expended in constructing the course. On a day when rain seemed to be an ever present possibility the combined resources and physical effort supplied by many people went a long way to making this such a successful event This ranged from Mr Stuart Brown and the loan of his Magic Van, (I can feel a new career as a White Van Man approaching), the tools and storage facilities he also provided, Club Chairman Mr Stephen Hartley and former Dear Leader Mr Ady Wadsworth (who has now made it up with Chief Ranger Alexis), Gandalf Bierton, Mr Sedgley and Nicki Cronin who with club hammer, big boy strimmer and reams of blue, red/white tape and poles made the course the magical place it became. For Val and I who looked, listened and learned it was a formative experience.

A special vote of thanks must go to the Marston Forest authorities for their very kind permission in allowing us to stage this event on such a magnificent site. We must pay special regard our new best friend Alexis Pym the Marston Forest Chief Ranger, who healthily and safely co-ordinated the car parking, catering and much of the signage used during the event.

So from the time that Val and I first arrived at the site at 1000 on the day of the race to the time we left at 2200 (after the best bottle of Magners I have ever tasted), the whole day was an illuminating, and rewarding experience.

Well done Flyers. You did us proud.

Goldi

Well what a race, I had been training on this course for weeks and each time I was running at 21mins (which was last years time), no matter what I did, I could not get under 21mins, my aim was to get under 20 mins on the day, which at the time, was not looking good. I kept telling myself this is a 5k run not 10K.

The day itself, the weather was great, arrived nice and early and met up with one of the coaches, I mentioned that I was there early to warm up and he basically gave me clear instructions on what to do. I went along to one of the pathways and warmed up for around 30 mins, maybe more. I got to the start point and for the first time, no nerves and no adrenaline, that was not good, that's what usually makes me go like the clappers.

As soon as I heard "3, 2, 1", the adrenaline suddenly "kicked in" and found myself literally launched in the air, I got a great start, had to really push it at the beginning. I hit the first Km at 3.50min and knew if I continued I could do it, easier said than done though!

I kept up with the speed and realised I was doing really well, and then it happened, I hit 3km and felt rubbish, my legs were tired and I was slowing up. After a bit of positive thought (get your butt in gear!) I just gave it everything I had. I got to 4km and realised that I was about to shock myself by knowing that staying at this speed, I was going to hit the 19mins marker. The final few hundred metres I could see the clock and knew amazingly I had achieved my goal. I was evening more pleased to hear the coaches cheering everyone on at the finish.

Once again, I finished a race "high as a kite", shocked that I had done my aim, and also, so very, very pleased with myself

Leigh Pilgrim

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 19 June

The event through the words of Max O'Driscoll:

Evening receivers of wisdom, expiaters of guilt and other less principled immoral standard bearers.  I bring...well...something, results probably.

Bloody windy, fractionally unhelpful on the way out and almost neutral on way back, railway bridge to Bunny Lane, diabolical. Temperature up on last week which was pleasant but the gusting slapped any chance of really good times for the skinny types amongst us.

The fast boys went fast, the up and comings shaved a few more seconds off their pbs.  The rest of us just about did what we usually did.  Enough. I smell therefore I reek, hence bathwards is my preferred destination plus some warm water for a change.

That's it for tonight... until we meet again for another gripping chapter of failure nailed I bid you adieu.  Max, leaving building and often found hunting down wild Ginger Beer in the forests of Tesco.

Kirton 5 Mile (Suffolk) - Friday, 13 June

Did this on the last day of our hols in Suffolk (keen eh?). It was very pretty, very flat, apart from 1 hill (as you would expect in Suffolk) and very pleasant. I didn't go all out as I reasoned I was on holiday so had a right to be nice to myself but still got a good time (for me) - 42.45 which is a P.B. I think.  [I have you down for 41:52 at Cranfield in 2006  PhilB]

Laura Johnston

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 12 June

Another night of fast pedaling!

Five flyers took to the roads of North Bedfordshire on a slightly windy, slightly cool evening. Julie Brown was first flyer away at number 5 on her first try, followed by Steve, Stuart and Karen & I on the tandem. Paula James and four of our children giving support around the course and at the finish.

Karen & I were last after I had pushed everyone off (as in up the road as opposed to into the hedge!) whilst Karen was taking finish numbers.

Steve set a new pb after complaining of not feeling too good! Surprisingly Karen and I were only 11 seconds off a pb, I say surprisingly as Karen had only had an operation two weeks ago and was only hanging on with one arm with the handlebars upside down. She did say she was pedaling fast to get it over with quicker (I think she runs that way too!).

Rick

Bedford Sprint Triathlon race 2 - Sunday 8th June

This local sprint triathlon was race 2 of a 3 race series staged by Galeforce events, the day started with great sunshine from dawn and i arrived at 6.00am in good time to have the pick of the bunch in transition, my aim was to use the race as a training session so did not put much pressure on myself,

It was good to see young Ampthill & Flitwick Flyer Leigh Pilgrim have ago at his first triathlon which he has wanted to do for some time.

I was hoping for an uninterrupted trouble free race as one does, The swim was average followed by a slick transition then heading out of bedford the only set of traffic lights turnrd red with a B,T,A referee viewing, (going through a red is instant disqualification) i must have lost 2 mims in total including stopping and getting back up to race speed. at this point i shouted some loud words and it was not oh dam then realised that those words alone could have got me disqualified. I tried to make up time but it was always going to hurt my result.

However i came in 37th overall and 3rd in class so must not grumble. I was so pleased for young flyer leigh who completed his first triathlon in 138th overall and with a massive smile which was worth the visit itself well done mate. there was a 3rd flyer stephen something but had trouble identifying his result.

The James family played there part in the day too as steve, paula and even the kids where marshalling and shouting words of encouragement as we did the 3 lap 5k run around bedford park.

All done and dusted and sun bathing in the garden at 11.00 am, good job done.

Martin Beare

After a number of "do I don’t I" I decided that this is what I have been training for, for the last 3/4 years. I had everything planned to the last detail, even had a foot pump for my tires incase they deflated!

The actual race itself was to me the highlight of my athletics career, ever since I started swimming, then seeing Tim Don race in the London triathlon, "That’s what I want to do". At that point, I couldn’t run or bike, I was only good at the swim section, great start!! However after a lot of help from my Dad (got a dodgy bike), then got into running, I found myself getting closer to that goal.

The day itself, well after thinking of all the things that could have gone wrong, it all went as clockwork, the swim part was outstanding and the bike was funny, after 3km I was out of breath and loads of people overtaking! But I did not care, for me I just wanted to complete the race.

I kept going and eventually made it back to the pool, got to the transition area, quick change, then onto the 5km run, I felt brilliant, I just basically jogged it round (Don’t tell the boss!)

I looked at my watch for the final time to see an excellent running time!

Thoroughly enjoyable, recommend it to anyone interested in triathlons..........if I can do it, anyone can!!

I would like to thank Martin Beare (who raced as well!) and also Steve James for their support

Leigh Pilgrim

Mont Ventoux - Saturday, 7 June

This was to be another challenge that Karen & I were to attempt on our tandem. Life unfortunately through itself in the way and Karen wasn¹t able to join me. So with hotels, channel crossings and event booked just Stuart and I flew the flag.

Mont Ventoux is a large mountain that juts out from the Alps into Provence. It is big - 1912 meters tall. We arrived the day before and drove up. This was to get a feel for the gradient, get some idea of landmarks and to note the 15 degree temperature drop (5 degrees at the summit) and that the last four miles was inside a cloud with visibility down to twenty feet!

So nervously we lined up on Saturday 7th June in the market square at Beaumes de Venise with a lot of very confident looking French riders and the odd splattering of English. Three different distances where on offer and we had gone for the middle one - 102 kilometers.

The initial ride of 17k and a climb of 190 meters found us at Bedoin, the official start of the climb, a 21.4 kilometer climb of 1609 meters. In other words mostly bottom gear for the next two and a bit hours!

A wonderful climb, very tough and very surreal once we hit the cloud. The biggest problem was yet to come! The descent - a half marathon down hill! We were so cold on the descent, partly the temperature, partly being wet inside the clouds, partly not generating any heat as we descended and also a 90k wind!!

Several cyclists had stopped and were running up and down to warm themselves! We both suffered from shivering so bad that the bikes started wobbling. Fingers so cold that they became numb and braking was very difficult.

Once down we still had another 40k to go to the finish over some fairly lumpy terrain followed by a 10k downhill sweeping finish - guaranteed a smiling finish!

Excellent, excellent organisation. Chipped timed, motorbike outriders, ambulances, very well marshaled, traffic stopped at junctions, excellent feed stops, goody bag including bottle of wine, three course pasta meal and wine at finish - cost 32 Euro¹s!

A truly memorable event and one that WILL be repeated on the tandem.

Stuart (Gold Standard) - 5 hours 14 minutes

Rick (Silver Standard) - 5 hours 21 minutes (must let go of the brakes!)

Dorney Dash 10K - Saturday, 7 June

Conditions were pretty good for this circuit around the 2012 Olympic rowing lake near Windsor. Bright sunshine combined with a light breeze and a virtually flat course greeted the 880 runners for the 25th running of the "Dash".

Despite the breeze the leaders set quite a fast early pace and I quickly lost sight of Richard Wilson who was looking to improve his pb [yet again]. The first circuit of the lake was reasonably uneventful but things became slightly tougher on lap 2 going back into the breeze. When I got to 6.5k I was able to see how the leaders were doing - they were coming back the other way at 8.5k, the winner managing a fantastic time of 31.55. Didn't see Richard again until the end, but needless to say he'd produced another great performance to knock around 30 seconds of his previous best. I came in a little bit later....... I noticed from the results that Jason Goodman [Bedford Harriers], who I believe runs with AFF on Tuesday/Thursday came in just behind Richard.

Jim

Teide Challenge ...

This is just a quick note to inform you all that I was able to successfully complete the first challenge of three. The 50 kilometre cycle ride from the costal area of Puerto Santiago to the cable car at 2200 metres located in the crater of mount Teide (the highest point in Spain navigable by road) took just over 4 hours. Conditions were favourable and cool for the first 2 hours, after punching through the cloud line at 1000 metres the sun soon began blistering down but did not hindered the successful completion of the challenge.

Thanks to Mike Broadwith my companion for the entire assent and his patience – as a an extremely strong cyclist the temptation to fly on ahead must have been enormous - and to my good friend and former colleague Sean Coffey who demonstrated real determination to complete the 3 hour section from Chio to the summit on the back of very limited training. Thanks to my parents that provided the support vehicle, video footage and most importantly encouragement. And finally thanks to all those that have collaborated with this event and a reminder that this is just one of three.

We are still looking to increase the number of sponsors so please encourage any contacts that you may have to become involved. I have attached a fund raising update for perusal and link to our website www.watfordgrammarschoolforgirls.org.uk.

Stephen Morales

Whipsnade 10K - Sunday, 1 June

The Club Championships and an excellent turn out of Club Runners (but where was the Beare!). This 3 lap course around the grounds of Whipsnade Zoo, I felt was a good choice. A reasonably fast course and excellent for spectators with the added bonus of being able to stay in the zoo afterwards. It's strange, but when your concentrating on your running you don't seem to notice the animals/birds in the zoo - although I do remember some squawking flamingos around the 4K point! My first 2K was slightly quicker than I anticipated (8.15) but I felt reasonably good at that stage. Through 3K (12.34) and I passed Jeremy Bell only for him to re-pass me within the next K. Through 5K in 21.19 and a sub 43 was surely on the cards. However, the climb back up to start the final lap saw the brain willing but the legs feeling their age and I slowed! My K splits were suddenly against me but I did manage to pass Jeremy again with 1500m to go and finished in a tired 43.36 - just 4 seconds slower than Flitwick. Well done to Dunstable Road Runners for a well organised event. Dave Stanley First report here for me so I will try and keep it short so you don't fall asleep! Great race, the weather was perfect and the course itself is excellent, no hills and a lot of downhill slopes! As this was not chip timing, I made the decision to go near the front (after a bit of advice) to enable a good start. This paid off straight away as I started the race as soon as the clock started rather than losing 20 or more seconds being at back of the queue. I was going really well, although unsure of my first lap time (so busy concentrating I forgot to look!) I felt good and knew I was in good form. However this was not going to continue. For the first time ever during a race, my shoe laces became undone. I had no choice but to stop and sort them out, this cost me around 10 secs maybe more. I carried on and picked up the pace again. On the last lap, although the usual pain started to kick in I still managed to keep to a reasonable pace, however when I saw the "400m to go" sign, my energy levels boosted and I went for it. When I crossed the line, I looked at my watch and realised I was seven seconds away from getting a new PB. If I did not have the earlier stop, I would have done it, but that's what its all about and as they say, there’s always a next time!. I still got a fantastic time which I’m really pleased with. Any complaints? No free t-shirt!! Leigh Pilgrim

Club 10K Champions Men Ladies Champion Stephen Hartley 34:34 V-40 Dave Olney 38:03 V-50 Dave Stanley 43:38 Champion Jo Clarke 46:19 V-35 Philippa Jamieson 51:58 V-45 Annette Turner 54:06

May 2008

TRI FEST 2008 1000 Metre Open Swim - Saturday 31 May.

Tri Fest 08 is a series of races organised and run by Big Cow Events and spread over 2 days, races include an Aquathlon, Open water swim, 10K run and a sprint Triathlon.

A few day prior i decided to do the 1000 meter lake swim as part of my training schedule and to familiarise myself with the lake as I am to do a half ironman race there is several weeks time.

I started the day at 7.00am with my normal 3000 metre training swim with my tri club and was joined by Darren Farr for the 2nd time that week, Darren was also to join me later that afternoon for the race at Emberton Country park. Darren had also brought along the very very pregnant wife Amy and we joked about her waters breaking as she watched us race.

All age groupers and genders were to start off the same gun time, these start can be difficult as everyone is fighting for space and clear water and arms and legs can fly and its not uncommon for people to swim over the top of you, its always a good idea to sprint of the start to get clear water and miss the mayhem before the race settles down or to hold back, i decided to to crack on from the off but still found myself fighting for space, i can assure you there was no (no after you sir) it was more like (take that) it was hard to get into any rhythm in the early stages as we headed for the 1st boy on the course.

As i turned the boy it had thinned out a bit and i was a lot more happy and could get my teeth into the race and turn the twin turbos on, before i knew it i had turned the 5th and last boy and the exit ramp was in sight which we had to climb up and a short run to the finish gantry and our chip time displayed, to be honest i would have preferred a longer race as i was just getting into the race when it was over.

As well as darren there were 5 members of my tri club Boxfit taking part all of which did well.

Our Darren had a cracker and beat last years time. Full results on Big cow events.

Martin Beare

Beds Road Cycling Club, Evening League - Thursday, 22 May

More of Max:  Evening rabid stats lovers, number swallower's and those of Garmin inserted persuasion.  I bring forth digits, placings and times for your sadly alienated lives on this wretched planet.  Enjoy in a dark little corner but don't complain to me when your friend is ahead in the rankings.

Another reasonbable evenings entertainment, a light breeze against leading up to Hillfoot and helping most definitely on the way back. Cool but not cold. Some exceptional times again and a lot of pbs.

Interesting that the quicks were a little slower than week 1 (couple of notable exceptions) whereas the slugs in general knocked chunks off their 1st time outings.  Perhaps mollusc is the way to go.

Rick

Bedford 6 - Wednesday, 21 May

It was a nice evening for the Bedford 6, although feeling sluggish after sitting in a course all day. A short walk to the start in Mowesbury Park, the runners all looking very fast. Well it was the Grand Prix series! Only saw one other flyer Karen Roberts. We all set off at 7.45 to run past Mark Rutherford school, where the headquarters was. All was going fine till I got to about 3 miles, when there was a big hill that seemed never ending! Although on the downhill i did manage to pick up a bit of speed. On the last stretch around the park, I went off course, (maybe the story of my life!) not seeing any marshalls or markers, so lost a bit of time, I could have done without. Eventually called back on the course, also the finish was not very clear, and slowed down too soon.

Pat

Wheathampstead 10K - Sunday, 18 May

Another attempt at regaining some post-marathon form found me lining up on a very pleasant morning with 702 strangers - including a guy pushing his child in a buggy who was anticipating a sub 45 minute time - on a revised, and surprisingly almost completely dry, off-road 10k course in rural Hertfordshire. The very scenic route partly uses a disused railway track, but there were quite a few inclines, steps and gates thrown in and plenty of walkers, horses and cyclists coming the other way ensuring that runners couldn't admire the scenery too much. This event is charity based so attracted a lot of unattached entrants and is very well organised with encouraging marshalling and quite a large crowd at the end. Didn't see any other Flyers - even Martin Beare was absent!! Beat the bloke with the buggy though!!!

Jim Dodds 43.35

The Archer - Sunday, 18 May

Another Sunday, another event. This week a 75m (my computer said 78miles) or 105 mile ride up and down the Chilterns starting near Amersham. This event is based on a professional race that usually takes place over much of the same terrain.

Just Stuart and I this week and I needed to get back so elected for the shorter route.  Some hairy descents down some very minor roads, not helped by a stiff breeze. A small event made smaller by two route options. A good day out and personally well pleased, my best time on a bike for years!

Moon Walk – 26.2 miles - Saturday/Sunday 17/18 May

After enjoying myself rather too much at the club anniversary ball on the Friday night, I was collected by my walking partners (Stephen and Jackie Mullens) at 6:30pm on the Saturday for the Moon Walk in London. We arrived at Hyde Park at around 8:15pm for a 11:30pm start – rather keen you may think, but that was stipulated in the instructions. The evening was very cold and later on it started to drizzle – not ideal conditions for walking in a bra (even a furry one is not that warm)! There were somewhere between 15,000 and 17,000 people taking part in this event and we started in 4 groups at staggered intervals of 10 minutes – rather crowded. At about 3 miles there was a bottle neck getting out of Hyde Park with a Pedestrian crossing where we had to wait for the second change of lights to get across and throughout the route there were many road crossings where we had to wait for the lights. The route was good – up one side of the river and then back on the other side with some good views including the Tower of London, London Bridge (which we crossed) and the London Eye – although the wind was brisk off the river! At around 8 miles I had an altercation with a metal bollard – I didn’t see it as we were so tightly packed together – the knee has a colourful bruise, but otherwise no damag