AFF_Archive

The new Grand Prix season started on 1-Jan-2006. Now that we have the official results from North Herts XC the final 2005 League tables are now available. A comprehensive study of the tables is being undertaken, to try to better place newer members, who have been placed in Leagues below their ability. These new leagues will be published shortly. Points are being accumulated and bonus points will be awarded, where appropriate.

Stephen Hartley is overall GP winner, in an extremely closely fought contest, only pipping Tim Harris on count back, by virtue of winning 5 out of 9 head-to-head races during the year. Both scored a maximum 250 points. Ady Wadsworth & Nick Jones tied for 3rd place on 249 points while we had a 3 way tie for 5th place, on 247, between Steve James, Dave Stanley & Kieron Lewis. With Tim's late season form, he must be favourite this year, but who knows?

The end of year also brings to a conclusion the Club Marathon championships. Congratulations to Tony Cole & Caroline Gilby and the winners of the veteran categories. Click here for a full list of champions for 2005. A list of events for 2006 championships should be available shortly.

As a new year opens up in front of you, an opportunity to see how you have performed last year. I have carried out my annual analysis of results and produced an Age Related summary.

Sunday 18 December saw North Herts RR host the second race in the 3 Counties X/Country League. The Flyers went into the race still buoyant after a re-assuring second on 13 November at Wooton . However, injury and festive duties saw both men & ladies teams slightly depleted. Nevertheless, first shows for Ed Druce, Nick Tillet, Andrew Lockley and Annie Page were welcome as was the encouraging sight of Caroline Gilby making a return.

Clear sky and frozen track greeted the throng who were tasked with an arduous 5 mile loop over rolling fields around Letchworth. First thoughts are that frozen clay is preferred to leg-sapping soft, sticky stuff and on balance this is probably true but the going was definitely firm.

Bathed in winter sun the athletes raced away at 11am led by an enthusiastic Richard Lack (Wooton RR). Over the next few miles the lead changed hands a few time but Tim Harris stuck to the task to finish in pole position - the first time that Tim has won a 3C's League Race but doubtless not the last. Michelle Morris was first back for the Flyers Ladies team in 7th which is her best score to date.

Most Flyers enjoyed a decent race but those doubling up after the County XC Champs may be a little tender. However, there's no escaping the fact that the winter sunshine was glorious and seasonal mince pies went down a treat.

Well done to everyone who helped to ensure that the Flyers retain second place in the 3C's League. Have a great Christmas, enjoy the break and come back ready to tackle Ampthill Park on 8 January (or marshal as the case may be).

Now that we finally have the results form the 2nd 3 Counties League event, the current position in the XC Championships are now available.

Stowe School is a great cross country venue. This year's course was very tough with only one 200m flat stretch - the rest you was either climbing or running downhill. The 12K course consisted of 4 laps and was great for the spectators but murder for the runners! Combining the Championships with Buckinghamshire meant for a better field of runners and there was quality at the front with Darran Deed from Beds & County winning in a time of 41.18 and 'yes' he lapped me - but only just!!

Well done to Vicky our only female runner in the Senior Woman's race finishing 6th.

It's hard to believe I know but FVS has finally acknowledged that AFF Men won the 2004 Stevenage 5K Series. We've even been awarded 6 bottles of Cava for a belated celebration! Congratulations to those who ran last year and commiseration to those who were unable to get a place in this year's series due to the way the race limit was handled.

A well organised half marathon. Good facilities at start and finish, well marshaled and adequate water stations. Decent t-shirt for finishing plus many runners got Beds Harriers '20 year' celebration tumbler! The course is rural, quite tough on the outward section with a couple of testing short climbs. However, if your feeling good in the later stages coming out of Cranfield at 9.5 miles there's a fast down hill section followed by a gradual decline in gradient all the way back to 12.5 miles. My only moan was to the many inconsiderate motorists on this section of road from Cranfield to Wooton which made it very difficult for the runners at times.

Adam Peters was first back for the Flyers with, I understand a PB run. Nick Jones had been under the weather this week but still ran a credible 1.26. Nice to see Tim Hunt dropping under one and half hours and although I was closing on Tony Cole I know he was well pleased with his run and is certainly returning to good form. With 16 Flyers competing it was an excellent club turnout. Dave Stanley Click here for the all the latest club results.

The latest report in the Bedford Citizen incorrectly stated that the Bedford Harriers Wootton Half Marathon was our Club Championships. As I am sure you will be aware, these were contested over the Milton Keynes (NSPCC) Half Marathon course in July. Apologies if you were given the impression that you had won yet another treasure for the mantelpiece.

As an affiliated running club we are given a number of guaranteed entries for the London Marathon according to the number of members within the club. This year we have been given 3 guaranteed entries. These are allocated to qualifying members by means of a draw which took place on Tuesday the 13^th December at the Wheatsheaf pub (opposite Kick Off Sports).

The winners were:- Richard Blunt, Valerie Von Arx & Kieth Morgan. I am sure you will give your support as they start their training!

If any of these members cannot participate due to injury etc, their place will fall to the reserve team, in the following order:- Nick Jones, Vanessa Bierton & Karen Hollingsworth

Please could you send Anthea an email if you have a place in London, so that we can make sure we give you enough motivational support, sympathy or encouragement when required.

I really wanted to do this event as it was a year ago I started running, this event being my first. Sadly I left things to late to enter under the flyers, but was invited to run under the Boxfit team C. Team A winning the Event 02.26.05 Darren Deed flew with a 0.43.58 (8.6 Miles)

I ran with my sister and brother-in-law, both unattached runners. I ran a 1.05.23 (7 mins faster than my first race last year). I was relieved as I am still getting back to full fitness after a 2 months break following a serious hip flexor injury.

The Marathon boys and girl did respectable times Paul Owen 3.37.51, Steve Smith 3.54.41, Vicky Adams 4.13.50 and Dave Sedgley 4.18.06

As last year the event was well contested and very well run with plenty of good marshalling. As in the past 5 years the weather was perfect for the entire event. An enjoyable time was had by all. Good luck to all running on the Bedford half see you there.

3 of our members were rewarded by county honours. Vicky took 2nd place in the Ladies event and Steve took 2nd in the V55 class. Sedgers managed to pick up 3 awards by finishing 3rd in V55 and 1st in both V60 & V65 classes.

Please do not think I am in any way belittling their efforts, but the old adage "you've got to be in it to win it" is never more appropriate than in County events. So please tick the County Champs box. In this case all of our entrants did and 3 were rewarded!

Held down at Aldershot on the Army's test vehicle circuits this 8.5 mile multi terrain race was interesting but a bit over hyped as being a tough race. Plenty of water to wade through up to your thighs, but apart from 3 short, sharp hills, the course was generally fast over stony puddle-strewn tracks. It had a camouflage netting to crawl under at about 5 miles which was more annoying than anything else. Almost 2,000 runners took part and there was a good atmosphere. Good finish with one large area of water to wade through before a quick 50m dash to the line. It's one of those races to say you've done but not sure whether I'll be back next year as at £20 to enter it's a bit dear for the 'grim' medal - which I have to say it was!!

On Saturday 3 December Flyers swapped lycra for a festive dose of merriment at Flitwick Conservative Club.

Lightly oiled, most had their moment on the dance floor though some preferred to quaff bargain ales and chomp through a marathon buffet. Then around 10:30 Chairman Wadsworth and a fanciful Paul Lydon combined forces to do the prize draw. And the result? Well apart from scrambling on the floor for tickets when the box disintegrated, three worthy winners were eventually drawn. 1st prize went to Phil Clarke's wife Carol who collected £100 of Sweatshop vouchers. 2nd prize saw Weasel rewarded with a food parcel that should keep him fed for at least the next year. Oh, and the Lydons went home with a tasty M&S food hamper - hmmmm!

All in all, a good night & thanks go to Julie Brown and Ischelle Wadsworth for making it happen.

This marathon is different, to the few others we have done, something's are better, some worse.

On the plus side is that the event is in kilometers and these just click by at a favorable rate, the drink stations after the half way point supplement the usual water and sports drinks with hot sweet tea, fruit and cakes!! - quite civilised really!

The down sides would be a small turn out of supporters - most of them are shoppers, and the cobbles/flagstones for the best part of a mile and half - large, very old and quite slippy - wonderful for the ankles!

If the sun had shone this would have been a different type of report but we have come away happy with ourselves. We got round when a long, long way from our best, seen another culture that we were not familiar with, seen some interesting architecture (including the leaning tower at Pisa), and enough culture and couture that you could shake a stick at.

Andy Atherton: Just a note to say I thought this was a great event. Organisation, marshalling and facilities were superb and as Martin B said, value for money was hard to beat. T-shirt, medal, choc bars, tea, cakes and a coach ride to the start, all for £10! Recommend it for next year.

Ady Wadsworth: As 10 milers go it is not one of the easiest so when you have the confidence that the organiser's are in control it takes that element of worry out of the equation. Plenty of nourishment afterwards, which is always appreciated. Thanks again and well done to you and your team.

On Thursday 17 November AFF teamed-up with Sweatshop to provide 35 Flyers with an opportunity to learn more about running.

The evening got underway with a 5 mile run led by Store Manager, Peter Ford along flowing, well-lit footpaths around Milton Keynes.

This was followed by an hour long presentation by osteopath, Mark Booth who focused on lower leg mechanics. This athlete-centred session was particularly useful as it covered prevention, detection and treatment of specific injuries (which some Flyers seem to have in abundance). Finally, there were opportunities to chat with Irish internationals coach Noel Spellacy, learn more about running kit, and have gait analysed by Nike rep Andrew Biggar.

An excellent event by all accounts and one that we hope to repeat in 2006. Thank you to everyone that supported the event.

Having watched from the comfort of the sidelines with a glass of red wine little did I realise that I was watching two Flyers who would hit the top ten. Tim Harris and Ady Wadsworth clocked respective track times of 9:04.22 secs and 9:46.98 secs which places them in the top ten 3000 metre track times for Bedfordshire in 2005. Congratulations, and as for next year let's see more Flyers round the track at Watford impressing the larger clubs! Click here for more top tens available from the Bedfordshire AAA website.

On Sunday 13 November Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers traveled away to Delapre Park, Northampton for the start of the 3 Counties X/Country League.

A glorious Autumn day greeted the throng who were tasked with two challenging laps through wood- and parkland. As ever, ambitions were high with the Flyers determined to retain the League title for a third season.

After a respectful minute silence the athletes surged away from the start and Dave Brown took up the lead despite completing an arduous duathlon only the previous day. However, Brown started to flag after Lap 1and Tim Harris took up the cause for the Flyers, nestled in behind eventual winner Michael Aldridge of Wooton RR. It was no great surprise that Lap 2 was softer under foot, pounded by the feet of 300+ athletes, and gaps started to open. Tim Harris was first back for the Flyers [2nd] after leaving it a fraction late to target a win. Meanwhile, Sarah Thomson showed her mettle to lead the Ladies Team home by finishing 5th. Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers finished 2nd team overall which is an excellent start by all accounts. Well done to all those who did X/country for the first time. Click here for the all the latest club results.

Club standings
Wooton	1	96
AFF	2	166
NHRR	3	208
Bedford Harriers	4	245
Stopsley Striders	5	585

The next X/country training session is on Sunday 27 November. Meet at Stockgrove Park (nr Heath & Reach) to leave at 7.30am prompt - as is tradition, we will breakfast in the cafe afterwards.

Dave Stanley’s Verdict: From a personal point of view this was a disaster. I knew going into the 2nd mile it was going to be a struggle and a groin strain over the last few miles made for agony all the way in to the finish. As regards a half marathon - why does it always poor of rain when I do the Stevenage Half! This year was a new course, two laps starting at the Ridlings Track and which took in Fairlands Valley Park as part of the route. Most of the course was on the redways and although described as 'flat' I found the small inclines coming out of the underpasses made it far from flat overall. Also, I felt mile 1 -2 and 6-7 were steady climbs. With strong winds and driving rain at times one particular mile around 5 and 10 I think, was particulaly hard across the park being totally against the elements. Nice finish on the running track but a disappointing goodie bag with a 'naf' medal, chewey bar and a bottle of water-last thing I wanted after all that rain! In my opinion, you can't beat a decent t-shirt as a prize!

A choice of 6.3k or 12k, both races run basically alongside the Waikato River which cuts through the city. An easy decision in my case. I did the short race in 31 mins 15 secs which although not setting the world alight was at least a PB! (It could hardly fail to be at this distance). Around 2,600 runners in total for both races, I half expected to see Austin and Isobel there! John Furlong

On Sunday 30 October the inaugural Rotary Centenary Challenge was staged at Stopsley Sports Centre.

Initially, Ady Wadsworth and Tim Harris intended to race the 5.6K short course and almost did so, keen to impress in what was effectively a Juniors Fun Run. Shamed into submission the pair joined nine other Flyers on the 10.9K long course. Just as well really because the short-course athletes took a wrong turn and ran much further than expected.

The main race got underway at 11:05 (strange time) and a field of 100 headed East in the direction of Hitchin. At the front it was a little unsettling to see 65yr old Graham Patton (Sphinx) set the early pace. What's more, this spring chicken plugged all the way to finish a respectable 7th (just ahead of Chairman Wadsworth). A slippery downhill on 1K at Butterfield Green saw Tim Harris assume the lead until 3K when a relaxed Rob Palmer (Luton AC) decided that the pace was too sedentary. As Palmer pulled away Stephen Hartley tried to stay with Tim, but lost contact on 5K when the trail turned West onto the Icknield Way. 800m, left onto a cinder track that is Wardswood Lane and then the fun began - a fleet tailwind turned into an energy-sapping headwind. Right just before 7K and then up the side of Warden Hill where Tim's engine showed signs of seizing.

The last 3K back to Stopsley wasn't too bad until earth steps up to Stopsley Common turbocharged the lactic acid and, if that wasn't enough, at the top of the bank athletes had to clamber a 5-bar gate. Little did we know that the gate key was snug in the Race Director's pocket. Not to worry, at least it protected your backside from the on-coming throng - at least that's what Hartley thought until a slip brought unwelcome contact with the crossbar (an overly efficient method of birth control).

At last the Race Finish was in sight, except that the course took the long route, 600m around football/cricket pitches. The last 100m was a breeze though few had need for an inspirational sprint as the field was so spread out.

And the result? Tim just about hung on to finish 2nd man [42:27], pursued to the last by Stephen Hartley [42:56; 3rd]. Nobby put in yet another fine performance [6th] while a steady run from Tony Cole confirms that he is finally on the mend. In the Ladies Race a solid performance by Vicky Adams [58:31] saw her finish 3rd by a mile. Meanwhile, determined duo Val von Arx and Jenny Pedder glimpsed their potential for the 3C's X/country League. Pity there were no team prizes cos we'd have done right well!

Click here for the all the latest club results or here for official photos & full results - when the site is updated

The organisers of the 2006 Bucks/Beds XC Championship have arranged to hold this event at Stowe School, Buckingham on Saturday 17th December 2005 rather than on the nationally designated date in January. This is the day before the 3 Counties League event hosted by North Herts.

We have made representations to the league organiser, as 6 of the 11 league clubs are located in Bedfordshire, but they feel that they are unable to reschedule the league event.

We would like to field a strong team for the league event but some members may prefer to run in the county as individuals. This is quite understandable and some may even have aspirations of obtaining County representative honours. The decision is entirely up to you, to do what you feel is best for yourself and/or the club, and no pressure will be applied either way. Some may even decide to run in both events.

This leaves us with a problem concerning the Club XC Championships, which would normally include both events.

For the 2005/6 season only, these 2 events will be blended into a single scoring event for championship purposes. This will be based on calculated race speed for the 2 events, counting the faster of the 2 if both are run.

The Club XC Championships will now be based on the four remaining 3 Counties League events and this blended event.

All members running in 1 or more of the designated events will be entered into the championship, unless they choose to opt out. Points will be awarded based on your finishing position relative to other Flyers competing in each event, 1 for first Flyer, 2 for second etc. If you do not compete in an event, you will be awarded a point score equal to the number of entrants in the championship plus one. At the end of the series the worst score will be discarded and the lowest scoring total will be declared winners of the 4 categories, male & female, senior & veteran.

The proposed actions are a compromise but attempt to be fair to all club members.

On Sunday 23 October, Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers proudly presented the Ampthill Trophy. This two-lap cross country race is set in historic Ampthill Park, Bedfordshire and combines challenging hills with opportunities to stretch the legs. Conditions were almost perfect with moist ground underfoot and the slightest chill on a bright autumn day.

At 10:20 twenty-six juniors were unleashed to compete over a short course (3.5K), the melee leading to a tumble and a few choice words. At the front, Riverside Runners' William Mackay fought hard with chasing Harry Gilham (Herts Phoenix) to pull away on the second lap and finish 1st boy (14:41). Meanwhile, Katherine Mackay (Riverside Runners) battled with Alice Middleton (Biggleswade AC) to snatch victory in a photo finish 17:31.

The Main Race got underway at 11am with a sizeable field of 209, including GB International Huw Lobb. The athletes hurtled away from the start and round a coppice before dropping down to join the main course. Huw Lobb showed his class from the outset despite turning out for Beds & County the previous day in the National 4-stage Road Relays. Cheered on by a vocal crowd that shifted around the course, the athletes toughed it out, racing down hills and through the woods. 25 minutes later those at the Race Finish glimpsed site of race leader Lobb with a comfortable lead. Huw notched 26:37 over the 8K course to win the Men's Race, pursued to the last by gutsy Gareth Suffling (Luton AC). In the Ladies Race, Burnham Joggers Claire Pusey [33:24] pushed all the way to collect silverware ahead of impressive Donna McEwan from Bedford Harriers. Flying the flag for the Flyers were Andy Bierton [33:06, 21st] and Michelle Morris [39:13, 8th]

In the Team Competition a Wooton RR combo of Michael Aldridge [5th], Craig Mattocks [7th], Andrew Clancey [13th] combined to finish as 1st Men's Team, whilst Donna McEwan [2nd], Carla Fisher [4th] and Judith Ingledew [19th] did the business for Bedford Harriers.

The 2005 Ampthill Trophy was sponsored by Ampthill Town Council, No Limitz Sports and Saffron Plaza Restaurant.

Click here for the full results and a selection of photos on the event website or Bedford Today Report

On 9 October Kieron Lewis from Maulden represented GB in the 30-34 age group category at the World Triathlon Championships in Honolulu.

Kieron improved his world age group ranking of 92nd to finish 54th in a time of 2:10:44. This was an Olympic distance race, including a 1200m sea swim, 40K bike and 10K run.

This is still one of my most favorite runs. It used to be shorter over 8.7K in the 80's and I remember the T Shirt you got then had a map of the course on it. Any Flyers who haven't done this run pencil it in for next year as it combines off road, beautiful scenery, three testing climbs including Pitstone Hill ( and some fast descents) and some very fast flat stretches, particularly the last couple of miles back to the finish.

It is almost all off road . Basically it starts in Marshcroft Lane, Tring ( a 10 minute jog to the start), follows the lane up to the top, at which stage I could see Steve Hartley well up with the leaders and Darren Farr also close behind. It's then the first climb up, past Aldbury Nowers to cross Stocks Golf Course to the stables on Stocks Road. From here it follows the big track up to the Bridgewater Monument . From here you run along Duncombe Terrace, a nice long, fast stretch, at which stage Steve James came steaming past me. It then past the kennels at Clipper Down and just after a cattle grid we turned left through the woods to the top of Incoombe Hole and on to the Ridgeway.

Pitstone Hill always looks worse from the top of another hill but once over this famous land mark you know it only gets easier back to the finish. You continue along the Ridgeway before dropping down through the woods of Aldbury Nowers - a nice fast section if Pitstone Hill hasn't knackered you! Then out on to the road and back along Marshcroft Lane to Tring. I was beginning to tire along this stretch, which seems to go on forever. The sting in the tail is you have to go past the cricket ground before turning into the finish. Despite tiring in those last few miles I still managed a minute + quicker than last year. Decent T-Shirt and with the finish at Tring Park Cricket Club, there are also showers and a bar. A well organised race and I was pleased to say well supported by the Flyers. 'Yes' I'll be back again next year.

I decided on the spur of the moment to run the Abbots Langley Tough Ten (10km) on Sunday 2nd Oct. It is organised by my parent's next door neighbour and the "tough" refers to the long, leg sapping, uphill drag from 8km to 9.5km. There's a nice community feel to this race, which attracts a smaller field than Standalone. It runs around the lanes of Abbots and Kings Langley near Watford and is definitely not a course for PBs, though the winners put in some pretty respectable times. My own time was my worst ever over 10km but I really enjoyed the race and was first LV35 home which can't be too bad considering!

Perfect running conditions, start not ideal as it exited the field next to the village hall in Harlington, through cars and fence posts.

That said, quite a quick start as the first 600 metres are downhill. After a mile the route takes you along a tarmac track for about another mile at which point the route goes off road up a track which gets ever steeper as you near the crest. You are virtually stopped as you get to the top, which is a bit of a shame as spectators tend to gather at this point- just as you have slowed to a crawl!!

A bit of a rest thereafter as you traverse another downhill stretch, before you turn for home along a 700 metre uphill section to the finish (3.4 miles overall).

Not a bad race, the nature of the course means that very few marshals are required, all of whom were very quiet! It's a good sharpener and very local so I agree with Andy Atherton's comments regarding this being a less frenetic alternative to Standalone.

Laura and Stuart Johnston welcomed their new baby girl Jennifer into the world on Saturday 1^st October at 2.45am. Jennifer weighed 7lb oz and Mum and Dad are reported to be well and very happy. Congratulations from all your friends and co-runners at Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers!

After much deliberation and a great deal of feedback from you, we have now reached a decision as to where we will be based for our training sessions.

As you will know, we were considering four options, Ampthill Rugby Club, Flitwick Leisure Centre, Redborne School and a combination of the three.

The outcome weighed fairly heavily in the direction of Redborne School and with this, from

Both the Tuesday and Thursday sessions will commence from the school, year round. The school will not only provide us with the use of the summer track and showering facilities, but also an indoor meeting point (The Refectory), the use of a meeting room and space for a notice board. [Please note that on Thursday 6 October the club will meet at Ampthill Rugby Club].

Having a single meeting point throughout the calendar year will be much easier to manage both in terms of existing members and new as there will be no confusion with a change from summer to winter training, and vice versa, I hope this new configuration will be both workable and convenient for us all.

In conjunction with this, the training schedule for the Tuesday coached sessions will include the location of where the session is due to take place. This will provide late arrivals with the benefit of joining the session after the runners have left the school. This will be published during the next few days and will be posted on the website.

Thanks for your input with this positive change in direction and I look forward to seeing you all at training.

Finished 21st in 69.07 at Swineshead on Sunday. Didn't see any other Flyers which is a shame as this is a well organised run and s totally rural. This year the first 3/4 mile was off road which meant you didn't have to double back to the finish for those who have run this race before.

On what was one of the hotter days of the summer, those Flyers who were up for some challenge and fun got together on Tuesday 30th August for team training, followed by a BBQ.

With teams of mixed ability, captained by Hartley Hare, Wadsworth and Nick Jones (the Hair Dye guy) the teams battled for top position through various challenges including, chasing each other in a relay race, an enduring bleep test without the bleep, running backwards and push-ups.

Key highlights were Darren Farr's exceptional ability to do 110 push-ups, an excitable Toby Brown who had four goes at the relay for his team (he must have been powered by Duracell, what do his parents feed him?) and Maurice Goodliffe who despite valiant efforts could not quite master the art of running backwards. The winning team obviously had that little extra colour about them, headed by Nick Jones (could not resist the pun there) they claimed their victory.

It is believed however, that through all this frivolity a new club record has been born, the ability to eat 8 sausages from the BBQ, goes to one of our up and coming younger members, Matt Jones.

Thanks are to be given to Stuart Brown ably assisted by Steve James for the organisation of the circuits and keeping the rabble under control and to Julie Brown and Ischelle Wadsworth for their shopping and distribution prowess in providing sustenance for hungry and thirsty runners!

Tim Harris has been sneaking off to Watford on Wednesday evenings to run in the 3K track sessions there. Over the last 3 meetings he has brought his times down from 9:29 to 9:04. These performances now firmly establish him as a member of the "80% group" on age related performance. "Whistle blower", Ady Wadsworth was well pleased with his time of 9:46 and is slowly homing in on the 80% level. He just needs to complete a few more races. This series of meetings was recommended to us by Dave Stanley (for several years) and although we are reaching the end of the season, may well be a useful addition to our schedule. One to remember for next year!

Kieron Lewis put on a fine performance to finish 10th in the Bedford Embankment 5 Mile race on Sunday, recording a PB time of 29:46. New boy, Carl de Ste Croix recorded a creditable 31:55 in his first run for the club and his first competitive race for over 10 years. It was a very hot, humid day, but Tim Hunt also managed to set a PB and Carole Lydon took the Ladies V50 prize, even though she was faster that the winners of the V40 & V45 awards! Others struggled with the conditions.

A dozen Flyers completed the Cranfield 5 Mile event on Friday evening and were rewarded with a fistful of personal bests. Dave Olney led the men home and Michelle Morris was first lady home, while Carole Lydon recorded yet another V50 record and Paul "Goldilocks" Lydon smashed his PB for the distance by an amazing 1 second.

Saturday 6th August saw Tim Harris and Ady Wadsworth of Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers run in the Olympic Distance Team Relay at the Michelob London Triathlon. The team event, consisting of a swimmer, cyclist, and a runner, was held in and around the Excel centre in London's Docklands, with the teams having been brought together by Colin Mayes, who was also swimming for one of the teams.

As part of the Out of Town Restaurants A and B teams, along with members from Luton swimming club, the athletes were hoping for fast times over the 10k course. With the 1.5km swim and 4km bike legs completed, and with the A and B teams in 2nd and 22nd places respectively, both Flyers were under pressure not to let their teams down. The 4 lap course was flat and fast and this paid dividends. Harris had an exceptional run to set a PB of 33:26 minutes, while Wadsworth churned out a steady 35.00 minutes to notch his own PB.

The efforts of the teams came to bear with both teams excelling in their first attempt at the event, with the A team taking a surprise championship winning 1st place and the B team coming 17th out of the 256 teams taking part- reasonable performances by any standard, particularly considering the novice status each of the six participants.

A Team - Out of Town Groups Ltd 2:00:47 1st and Champions (10k-Tim Harris 33:26-PB)

B Team - Out of Town Restaurants 2:14:50 17th overall (10k-Ady Wadsworth 35:00-PB)

....Also competing at the same venue was Ian Stoughton and Vicky Adams. Both took part in the age categorised full Olympic Distance event on the Sunday, undertaking all three events as individuals. Ian left the other swimmers trailing in his wake as he left the water in 20.44 mins, two minutes ahead of the second swimmer, and went on to finish in 2.29.49 hrs, gaining 21st position. Vicky completed the tough course in 2.51.46 hrs to record 48th position, having run an extremely competitive 10K. Well done to both athletes.

On another typical summer evening, pouring with rain, eight brave Flyers took on the elements to run in the Bedford Harriers Doug Anderson 5K. First home was Matt Jones, ably paced by his dad, to break through the 20 minute barrier. A well organised event consisting of two and half laps of Bedford Park. although running past the Robinson Pool three times can test the resolve of anyone, particularly if the race leader passes you before you reach it on the second lap.

On Sunday 17 July more than 700 athletes made the trip south to Ashford in Kent to contest the 2005 National Age Group Triathlon Championships. The competitors included Team MK star Kieron Lewis. This standard distance event combines three disciplines: 1500m open water swim; 40K cycle and 10K road race.

There was never any doubt that the promised hot, sunny conditions would prevail but only once the early morning fog that shrouded the stadium and the adjacent lake was burned off. Unfortunately this took a longer than hoped and to the frustration of everyone concerned meant that the event started almost two hours behind schedule. This delay meant that the swim course had to be reduced to approximately 300 metres so that the bike course would be cleared before roads were reopened. Excellent news for Kieron though, as the stronger swimmers would gain less time over him - this was looking good.

As the first wave of swimmers hit the water the skies cleared and the full swim course could be seen quite clearly but by then it was too late to revise arrangements. Once underway the racing proved to be as hot as the conditions with one of the strongest age group fields that has gathered for several years challenging for National Championship titles and, in many cases, the final qualifying slots for the 2005 ITU World Age Group Triathlon Championships in Honolulu.

Kieron had a good swim [0:5:58], and came out of the water in the top 20. Paced the long run up hill to transition, and set off on the bike in the leading pack of 5 cyclists.

Confident from having ridden the course the previous week Kieron knew that 2 big climbs lay ahead in the first 3 miles, so he controlled my effort. This meant the leaders pulled away, which was OK. He was also conscious that the run was hard and didn't want to blow chasing stronger cyclists.

Finally came back from the bike into transition in around 13th place [1:08:02], and hit the run feeling "OK". A strategy of patience was beginning to pay dividends. Got into his stride and overtook a few athletes, as well as pulling away from the guys with which he entered transition. After 6K the pain was starting to tell. But, this was the national champs, Hawaii slots up for grabs - CONCENTRATE, RELAX. Finally ran into the stadium for the 400M lap to finish and looked behind for the first time, just to make sure there was no sprint finisher's behind. Crossed the line and collapsed [36:35]. The post race glow took over, and Kieron soon composed himself to chat with other triathletes and revel in what he knew was a good race.

9th [1:50:35] in his age group, which was good enough to get the 4th slot out of 6 available. A great day, and a goal achieved that Kieron has dreamt of for years.

Kieron is now looking forward to representing GB in the World Championships on 9 October in Hawaii.

On Tuesday 12 July Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers had an opportunity to try Nike shoes out during training.

Almost 60 Flyers turned up at the track, much to the delight of promoter, Andrew Biggar.

Andrew has already offered to repeat the opportunity, which we may schedule to coincide with the X/Country season.

On July 10th Pete Bird competed in an Ironman event in Frankfurt . Swim - 2.2miles: 1-14, Bike - 112miles: 5-49, Run - 26.2miles: 5-15; Total 12-25

He had to run 2 miles of the bike section when his chain broke, so he lost a bit of time. But he was most disappointed with the marathon run which he'd hoped to do in under 4 hours! I just think it's amazing anyone can run at all after all that effort!

Rick Hollingsworth and his daughter, Rosie, were entered into 3 races at The Special Olympics held in Glasgow last week. Here is Rick's report..

On Saturday, 2 July a sizeable contingent of Flyers tackled the 2005 Maulden Multi-terrain 5 mile race. This was the second running of the race and a rare opportunity to run through the historic and beautiful Maulden Woods. A challenging undulating course on road and trail that coincided with the ever popular Maulden Lower School Summer Fayre offering entertainment for all the family.

Beds & County athlete, James Elworthy made the early running closely tracked by the Flyers own Stephen Hartley. However, an over-exuberant first 2 miles took its toll and Beds & County vet Andy Blair took up the cause while the Flyer's Tim Harris gradually closed up. Through 3 miles, 4 miles and the first two were racing shoulder to shoulder. Then as the athletes emerged from Maulden Woods Harris took his chance and pushed hard up Green End to snatch the lead. After that a sensational win was always on the cards as Harris stretched his legs for home and a well-deserved course record [28:20] to the delight of an expectant crowd.

In the Ladies Race Caroline Gilby found the humid conditions heavy going but stuck to the task and finished a highly respectable 3rd Lady [37:20].

Congratulations to the Friends of Maulden School for a well-organised and successful race. The Maulden MT 5M is a simple but effective formula, lavished with a great

On Sunday 3 July five Flyers represented Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers at the Vauxhall 5 mile, which is the first race of the 2005 Luton AC Road Race Series.

Around 100 runners took part in what was another humid morning. The course was a two lap affair with each undulating lap an out and back affair, starting at the Vauxhall Recreation Club grounds and into Luton Hoo estate. Not everyone's' favorite type of race but at least there was opportunity to encourage each other when passing in the opposite direction.

Nick Jones was the first Flyer home in 31:11 (15th) closely followed by Tony Cole in 33:29 (25th). Fast improving Matt Jones ran a great race to record yet another pb of 34:35 in 35th place and finish as 2nd MU20. Nicola Jones recorded a pb in 41:05 while Paul Lydon ran another steady race coming home in 55:37 to complete the Flyers performance.

All the Flyers were, however, some way behind the race winner Darren Deed of Beds & County who stormed home in a scintillating 24:55.

There are two races left in the series: the Luton 5K (21st August) and Luton 10K (28th August).

40 runners took part in our second VVO2 session at the school track. Level 11 saw the most finishers with 10 of the 40 at this level. Tim Harris's level 15, puts him in the company of Stephen Hartley, Terry Stanley and Hugh Lobb as those reaching the highest ever level done at the club. Thanks to Steve James and Pete Lane for organising the session.

On Friday 24 June, Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers proudly presented the inaugural Marston Vale Forest 5K.

Local athletes turned out in force with entries totaling 288, including 70 on the night. 28 athletics clubs were represented with Bedford Harriers contributing an impressive team of 47. A joint venture with the Marston Vale Trust, thundery showers threatened to sabotage the Marston Vale Forest 5K. However, in the event rain helped to settle an otherwise dusty course and cleared the air. With just 8 metres variation in height across the entire distance the Forest 5K always had genuine PB potential, with the added benefit of peaceful surroundings, no traffic and quality facilities.

The race got underway bang on 7:30pm as athletes stretched their legs 650m along the main drive way, Bedford & County star Terry Stanley setting the early pace. Onto established footpaths and the course snaked alongside areas of peaceful wet and woodland before crossing the race start on 4K. The final kilometre tracked alongside the main drive way and then looped past the Forest Centre. At the Race Finish athletes were greeted by vocal support from a sizeable crowd.

Terry Stanley was first back in 16:14, pursued by unattached runners Dan Merckel [2nd] and Trevor Watson [3rd] who tussled over the final stages. Bedford & County AC also won the Ladies Race with Louisa Tanner clocking 17:50, while Louise Waldman (London Heathside) and Christine Smith (St Albans Striders) finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively. Kieron Lewis [17:32, 7th] and Michelle Morris [21:07, 8th] flew the flag for Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers.

In the Men's Team Competition a Bedford & County's Terry Stanley [1st], Andy Blair [4th] and Matthew Raw [5th] collected medals for a score of just 10pts, while a Bedford Harriers combination of Andrea Ward [7th], Carla Fisher [9th] and Bev Ward [10th] netted the Ladies Team prize. Report on Bedford Today

Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers wish to thank each of the race sponsors, and in particular the Forest Centre for their support. Also, we wish to thank everyone who ran, helped and came along to watch the event. Your combined efforts helped to make the inaugural Marston Vale Forest 5K a day to remember. Full results can be found on the Marston 5K website.

Several Flyers took part in events in this 3 day event over the weekend 17-19th June. Nick Jones [4th V40] and Dave Stanley [3rd V50] completed all 3 events. Click on a photo to enlarge the image or (click here for all the latest results)

On Saturday 18 June speedsters Amy Witheridge and Darren Farr tied the knot at a lovely service in St. John the Baptist Church, Flitton. Darren even managed to sneak an early morning run to settle the nerves. Congratulations from all your friends at Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers and a special thanks to your parents for all their hard work. We had a wonderful time at the reception. Let us know what the running is like in Thailand.

Click on photo to enlarge

Sunday 12 June saw Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers well represented in two local races, the Barton 10K and the Dunstable 10K.

In the Barton 10K a contingent of 18 Flyers tackled a challenging off-road course that included a 200ft climb in the first mile. Hazy sunshine greeted the athletes who assembled in the shadow of scenic Barton Hills. After 1.5K much of the ascent had been conquered and cinder track gave way to a gentle section of the Icknield Way. Around 5K the athletes turned for home and the final 2K was exceedingly quick as most swallowed their fear down the final bank.

In the Men's Race Stephen Hartley relaxed too soon and was caught with 300m to go, to finish 2nd [34:24]. Meanwhile, a predictably positive run from Nick Jones [36:36, 4th] netted the 1st MV40 Trophy. In the Ladies Race almost wed Amy Witheridge pushed from the start to record an impressive win [39:07], 5 minutes quicker than her nearest rival.

Well done to Chris Jenart and the friends of Arnold Middle School for organizing a memorable event that raised much needed funds for a new mini-bus. On balance it the course may have been a little under 10K but you won't hear too many complaints. Report on Bedford Today

The Dunstable 10K road race is always a nip and tuck affair along a 1.5 lap course that meanders through Houghton Regis before looping back towards Dunstable. John Smith was first home for Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers in 40:52 [26th], while Carole Lydon recorded 47:15 [10th lady] on a decidedly muggy day.

And finally a few words scribed, or do I mean scribbled, by Paul "Goldilocks" Lydon.

What with my bad back, Val von Arx's sore hip and Carole's general decrepitude (her words, not mine) we did, like all true runners get our excuses in first, before starting the Dunstable 10k on Sunday 12th June. Nonetheless with the exception of yours truly, commendable performances were returned by John Smith 40:52 - 10th overall, Martin Beare 45:53 - 64th, Richard Pillinger 46:16 - 67th , Annie Page 65:24 -173rd, Val von Arx 67:12 - 191st, and 'she who marvels at every day she spends with me' i.e. Carole Lydon coming in 10th Lady overall and first V45 Lady in a time of 47:15. Oh and after a fall at the last fence, I trudged in with a time of 67:59 - 193rd. I have to pay special mention to Annie and Val who as very new Flyers and part of the Nice'N'Easys, returned very respectable times of 65:24 and 67:12. It would be good to see more Nice'N'Easys racing 'cos if a knackered old fart like me can do it so can you. Like S.Hartley Esq in the Barton 10k I was very unfortunate in not holding onto a commanding position after a blistering start. However after 500m I accepted that there were one or two others a tad more athletic than me, so I let them bound away as I had no wish to embarrass somewhat younger members of the race. The race itself as veteran Flyers will know, is an interesting exploration of some of the lesser known areas of Dunstable and down town Houghton Regis. The race commenced and continued in what I can only describe as typical English summer weather, with the sun playing 'now you see me, now you don't'. Nonetheless on a somewhat muggy day I suspect all runners were grateful for the occasional disappearance of the sun and the shade afforded by the exotic greenery surrounding Houghton Hall. In respect of the race course, it commenced at Dunstable Leisure centre, perambulated past Dunstable College, meandered up past the sadness that is the remains of the old Bedford factory, twice looped around the delights of the Woodside Industrial Estate and some of the better parts of HR and returned home via Dog Kennel Walk. This last stretch was nearly my undoing, as attempting a final 1km sprint up aforementioned Dog Pooh Walk I exhausted the last reserves of my less than considerable resources and promptly went ace over base at the feet of she who was encouraging me (Carole) as I sprinted into the final bend leading into the Leisure Centre. But I reseated my rider and galloped home in a final burst of impressive energy. (This is my version and I am sticking to it). As for the race pace - well from my position in the field it looked pretty nippy, and given the eventual winner went past me when I had completed 3.5km and he was galloping towards 7km, one obtains a picture of our relative speeds. Nonetheless it was an enjoyable morning out and in the spirit of supporting local races a commendable mornings performance by the participating Flyers.

P.S. For those of you who are really interested the cause of my fall was the casting of a shoe. But with the aid of 'she who wonders at my every movement (and boy does she wonder!!)' and a friendly marshal I was soon on my feet and yes I am okay now, and flowers and grapes to aid my recovery are not required.

In much better conditions than last time, 35 of you managed to complete the 3K time trial. It is difficult to judge whether the improvements were due to the improved conditions or the sterling work put in by the coaches, but all but one of you managed to improve on the previous effort. There was a measure of confusion at the finish, with many of you not reporting to the coaches, so there may be errors in the recorded times/names. If any of you feel that you have been unfairly/generously timed or even given someone else's time please email Webmaster and I will sort it out.

In awful, wet, windy conditions, 30 of you managed to complete the 3K time trial. As soon as the last runner had crossed the line the weather turned, typical! Still, you now have a benchmark to aim for when the next 3K time trial occurs on 7th June, over the same distance. It would be bad luck indeed if we had to endure similar conditions so, with favorable weather, there should be improvements aplenty.

Over a dozen Flyers battled their way around the streets on London to complete this year's London Marathon and all are to be congratulated on their performances and the considerable effort put in just to reach the start line, never mind actually running. Several PB's were recorded, not all by first time marathon runners. Outstanding performance of the day must go to Caroline Gilby, who beat her own PB and recorded a new V40 Record of 3:27:01

It is highly likely that some club member has managed to managed to sneak an entry and has been missed from these results. If this is so, apologies to you, drop a line to webmaster and I will attempt to include you on the next results update.

On Sunday 10 April, Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers proudly presented the 2005 Flitwick 10K road race. Only in its second year after being re-launched the 2005 Flitwick 10K attracted a record field of 864 entrants, including 6 internationals. These included 2002 National Duathlon Champion Martin Yelling [GBR], Team MK duathletes Dave Brown [NZ] and Kieron Lewis [GBR], and Kenyan speedsters Simon Tanui, Wilf Tarragon and Zacchary Kihara of Birchfield Harriers.

The fine weather, a regular feature of the Flitwick 10K in recent years, guaranteed a jubilant atmosphere for a race that enjoyed the added prestige of doubling as the Bedfordshire County 10K Championships. On the stroke of 11am, GB marathon star, Liz Yelling got proceedings underway, ably assisted by Flitwick Town Mayor, Cllr Pam Terry and a tantalising mix athletes surged away to tackle a challenging yet scenic course. The presence of a sizeable crowd helped to generate a fantastic atmosphere.

Kenyan trio Tanui, Tarragon and Kihara called the early shots, covering the first kilometre in 2:58, before the pace settled down to 3:02. Joint leaders Tanui and Tarragon went through 7K in 21:19 and then ramped the pace up to record 2:53 splits over the last 4K. With just 250m to go the crowd glimpsed site of the front runners racing side-by side. Onto the race field and a photo finish saw Simon Tanui snatch the men's title in a new course record of 30:12. Beds & County star Matt Janes impressed to finish 4th in a time of 31:40 and win the 2005 County 10K Champs. While first Flyer home was Kieron Lewis [36:43, 28th man] in convincing form.

In the Ladies Race, a fine performance from Barnet & District's Jacqueline Tarrant [37:13] slashed over a minute of the ladies course record, while Gail Duckworth [39:30, 7th lady] of Leighton Buzzard won the County Champs title. Meanwhile, Amy Witheridge was first back for the Flyers in an excellent 41:28 [12th lady].

It came as no great surprise that Birchfield Harriers collected the Men's Team Prize with maximum points. However, the Ladies Team Prize was more fiercely contested and just 3 points separated eventual winners Bedford & County [33pts] from St. Albans Striders [37pts]. New for 2005, event sponsors were invited to compete for the "Sponsor's Cup," the combined effort of Team Volkswagen contingent Nick Mitchell, Dominic Follows and Stuart Freshman being rewarded with silverware.

After the main event the Mayor was on hand to see almost 100 juniors tackle a 1 mile Fun Run, with active encouragement from a good-natured crowd.

Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers wish to thank each of the race sponsors, and in particular Flitwick Town Council, for their generous support. Also, we wish to thank everyone who ran, helped and came along to watch the 2005 Flitwick 10K. Your combined efforts helped to make the 2005 Flitwick 10K a day to remember.

On Sunday 20 March Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers represented the 3 Counties Cross Country League in the National Final. Last year, the Flyers inaugural appearance netted an unexpected silver medal. So, as the big day approached, hopes were high. However, no one imagined that key Flyers would be struck down by illness with just hours to go.

Unfazed, a depleted squad of 17 made the trip north to Bramcote Park, Nottingham determined to show their worth.

In essence, the 2 lap, 6.3 mile cross country course consists of two areas of parkland plateau, separated by woodland in which nestle some punishing hills.

The race started on the stroke of 1:30 and fresh legs stretched too quickly through the first half mile, before climbing steadily into woods. Tight right past vocal support and then after 100m athletes were forced to scramble up a steep, energy-sapping bank. The pace quickened as the pack coasted along a ridge and then tackled a tight, chequered descent down to the lower plateau.

On 2 miles the course entered a thicket scarred with shallow craters before competitors rushed out into the open for an tortuous climb up a trail punctuated with railway sleepers, and back through the Race Start on 3 miles. This was the point at which athletes who set-off too quickly started to struggle. Not a pleasant experience given the arduous nature of the

Stephen Hartley made good progress on the second lap to finish 5th after a final push narrowly missed the mark. Tim Harris gave his all to finish 13th but found that marathon miles are starting to wear heavy. The Flyers own Ady Wadsworth [29th] and Steve James jockeyed for position before Steve settled the affair on 4 miles to come home in 25th. Returning from injury, Darren Farr [49th] came through the test unscathed, closely tracked by reliable Andy Bierton [53rd] and second scoring vet, Nick Jones [61st].

In the Ladies Team, Amy Witheridge [6th] and Caroline Gilby [8th] flew the flag yet again, while Malin Bernhardsson [26th] chalked a worthy score for the Flyers before she returns to Sweden with partner Bjorn.

All in all, a great day out and arguably the toughest course of the season. 4th position was hard earned by a team that grafted for every point and did Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers proud . Given a few more regulars 2nd place was a realistic ambition.

Why oh why do people punish themselves on shingle beach, hill, cliff paths & bog? I asked this question after losing my virginity in the 2004 Grizzly and now I'm asking it once again. The 2004 Grizzly, "Infinity and beyond" was shortened to 15 miles due to atrocious weather, and some Flyers felt short-changed. However, the semi-sensible majority were most ecstatic - 4 miles less pain makes perfect sense in my book.

On Sunday 13 March fourteen foolhardy Flyers made the 200 mile trek south to sample Axe Valley Runners latest offering, "A thousand steps for mankind." I can honestly say that we must need our heads examining, particularly those who entered for an eight or ninth year. Total bonkers!

Seaton is hardly the most exciting seaside town in South Devon, but this year a large dollop of sunshine seasoned with carnival atmosphere provided ample compensation. Covered by local TV, the Grizzly started bang-on 10:30 followed shortly after by a more civilised 9 mile Cub Run in which intrepid Flyer Wendy Kent flew the club flag. A gentle 200m of esplanade and then the fun began with a loop down onto shingle beach and back along the seafront. It must have been quite impressive to see 1500 nutters plough, single file along a half mile stretch of shingle. Starting to sweat, we looped back along the esplanade, through the Race Start and, on 1 mile, started the climb to Beer Village. The first hill was well, ok. However, Beer Hill Rd required greater determination - imagine a tarmac version of Ampthill's own Heartbreak Hill, extend the length x 5 and you might be somewhere near the mark - our first experience of pain had arrived only 1.5 miles into a 19 mile tab. A rapid decent into Beer was greeted with bemused applause and then back uphill, same gradient as before. Hmmmm! A lonely piper greeted the throng as we ventured out onto cliff paths over Beer Head, to feast on stunning views. On 4 miles the course plunged 400' to Branscombe Mouth, if only some of us had spotted the warning "Test: your brakes." A short stretch of shingle for the forgetful few and then a tasty scramble 450' back up onto headland towards Weston. I have to say that the next 5 miles were pure pleasure not least because, humpty dumpty style, once we were up we were up. Lavished with stunning views and glorious sunshine the Grizzly did us proud, a stark contrast with 2004 when we lived and breathed damp, grey cloud. Past halfway on 9 miles and the trail started to turn in land. Nevertheless, the path remained reasonable and the going was good. On 11 miles we started to descend and the next 4 miles were complete hell. Rapidly running out of steam, we tackled hill after hill punctuated by the infamous energy-sapping bog which, as usual, claimed its fair share of body parts and shoes. Keen to emulate the Sean Mac experience last year, Nick Jones plunged thigh depth with his first step and had to be extracted by unimpressed marshals. Scary stuff when one considers that Nick got off lightly! On 15 miles we glimpsed Branscombe nestling at the foot of the cliffs, a welcome sight indeed. Past strange country folk seated beside the glowing embers of a fire and surrounded by hazy incense sticks, and then down, down, down. Few managed a controlled descent because brakes had long since failed. Water, grab a handful of save-your-life wine gums and onto the beach to trudge 1.5 miles of shingle, what fun! The trouble was that having escaped the beach (serenaded by a surreal saxophonist) we faced a 400' climb up unrelenting steps onto the headland above Beer. Excruciating pain and very slow progress - remind us when torture was legalised. A gradual descent into Beer was well-received by tired legs. However, rather than do the decent thing and bus us back to the Race Finish, Axe Valley Runners sent the course up another 300' of steps and cliff path. Finally, we descended to shingle beach and glimpsed the Race Finish. After 18 miles, 3/4 mile of shingle takes some doing and few made progress to speak of. Nevertheless, one way or another the shingle came and went. The Race Finish was absolutely buzzing as battered athletes hauled themselves up a ramp onto the esplanade and then tapped final reserves in a push for home. Only 150m to go and some even tried a sprint though few actually managed a change of pace. Most were just relieved to finish, collect a Grizzly t-shirt for which they spilt sweat and blood, and enjoy the experience of being jet washed by Seaton's resident fire crew. What a relief.

And the result? Well every Flyer finished and arguably those who toughed it out longest deserve the biggest cheer.

Will we return next year? Hmmmm. I know they say that memory of pain fades fast, but this year I'm not so sure. Give me Force 8 winds, lashing rain and a shortened Grizzly any day. I didn't feel short-changed in 2004. In fact, next year I might just watch, clap politely and wonder why oh why?

1	St Edmund Pacers	114
2	Reading RR	232
3	Liverpool RC	248
4	Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers	275