AFF_Archive

When Rick Hollingsworth offered to enter me for this I did not hesitate, this race is packed full of festive flavour and matched with an atmospheric scottish piper at the start and then at the inward incline at 8.5K.

By chance 5 flyers had made the journey to Ely thus giving us opportunity for GP points. My personal goal was to try and end the year with a sub 40 10K.

So eager was I to get it, I started the race like a novice and such was my speed my Asics racers were beginning to smoke, by the 3k board I had blew up and contemplated stopping as I would never survive the further 7k, I was so angry with myself as I should have known better. I decided to drop right off and regain a rhythmic breathing pattern but sadly damaged any chance of a sub 40.

I ran the remainder of the race trouble free and learning a valuable lesson ie you greedy so and so (for the want of a better word) if only I had not have gorged myself on the opening 3k. However all was not lost 1st flyer home, another PB 41.00 and lesson learnt. All flyers had excellent runs and all with PBs.

I Strongly recommend this one for next year, but book early as its proved very popular

Another year over and the last to leave (you sad bastard I hear you cry) I now look forward to new challenges in 2008 and the clubs anniversary, thanks to all flyers for some great competition in 2007.

Cliveden House is an excellent setting for a cross country and the Sunday before New Year makes it an ideal way to run off the Christmas festivities and still be able to enjoy the New Year's celebrations. Surprisingly, we were the only Flyers running for this very popular race that is all full by end November for race entries - even Martin Beare hadn't entered!!

The course starts and finishes in front of Cliveden House and the 2-lap course takes you through the grounds, dropping you down to the Thames before the notorious long climb back up to the main house. The sting in the tail is the 174 steps that have to be run up twice from the Thames to the main house, with each step some 4-5 feet wide. Add to this another long set of steps to run up that zig zag their way back to the top mid-way on the 2nd lap made this a tough run.

I eased my way round the first lap but struggled up the steps. As you reach the top all the supporters are gathered and cheer you through as you enter Cliveden Grounds. The 2nd lap I pushed on and found myself passing many runners but again, the notorious set of 174 steps got the better of me. Still, as I neared the top this time I knew I had only 600 yards of running left and its amazing what you can find over those final few yards!.

The course is somewhere between 6 and 7 miles and my son Terry, on the back of zero training, amazed me with an excellent run. finishing in 26th place. A breathing problem had forced him to stop on the 2nd lap when a top 15 place was clearly on the cards.

31 Flyers braved the cold weather to take part in the three counties cross country fixture this Sunday. The runners were greeted by a cold yet pleasant day and all runners were prepared for a course that is notoriously wet under foot, with many choosing a longer spike to deal with the conditions.

The race started abruptly and 325 runners made there way down the first of many undulations. The pace at first was quick to say the least but soon settled with many Ampthill & Flitwick flyers taking up positions in the lead pack.

The course was not as muddy as in previous years but it still made for difficult running with weary legs. As the race moved on, hills and mud taking their toll, the runners spread out. Soon came the point where an annoyingly long finishing straight/Bend/Hill was upon us and athletes faced a choice of striking for home or desperately hanging on to their position. With the race series at the half way stage all Ampthill & Flitwick flyers put in excellent performances to secure third place overall. This means that we are heading in the right direction for a National XC Plate Final appearance on 6 April 2008 in Ampthill Park, and an opportunity to defend our title, or push for a place in the Final.

Post Race sandwiches and cake were probably the best ever and have lifted the bar.

The next 3C’s League Race is on Sunday, 13 January – Home advantage should mean a big team and the opportunity to impress friends and family. Fingers crossed for a nice day!

A pre-race warm-up with Adam, when both of us were carrying colds and injuries, suggested that one or both of us would end up spectating. With ten minutes to go this apprehension was borne out when Adam assumed the initiative and opted out, preferring to protect any niggles by waiting for Sunday’s XC. Given that he was also firmly nestled in 3^rd place for the series (with the best two times to count) there was little to gain and plenty to lose.

Wadsworth, in a similarly delicate position (bodily), practised hypocrisy, gave bucket loads of good advice to Adam, and then participated anyway.

As it panned out, it was worth the effort (and the risk). At 3km I was marginally up on the 10 minutes that I was aiming for. The last 2km should have been painful - but wasn’t, and I ran in a 16.42. Three 5km PB’s on the spin and as already documented, I have finally beaten the demons that have spent 5 years at the 17 minute marker, tridents facing oncoming runner.

As a bonus, both Adam and I were 3^rd for the series in our respective age categories.

Overall a successful event for the club with 7 club records being set during the 3 race series. In addition to Adam & Ady's 3rd places, Peter jr Benedickter was 1st Junior in series for Luton AC

Overall series was won by 16 year old James Robinson from West Norfolk AC who won the Junior event at Ampthill Trophy.

Well first of all I should say that I entered this race before I joined the Flyers so I don’t appear as affiliated in the provisional results but did request the affiliation to be recorded for the official results. Also I only had one other ½ marathon under my belt prior to today and that was at Wilmslow back in March 2007 with a time of 2:01:15 (PB); consequently I thought that today I might get 1:55 or even 1:50 at best.

Anyway to today’s race; I set off with the intention of running my own race at about the 8 min/mile mark but shortly after the start Martin Beare cruised past me and said hi, and then few moments later so did Jim Dodds. I knew from training runs with Jim that he was faster than me but thought that I might be able to follow him to get an idea of pace… being a novice forgot that people run faster in races J but I managed to keep up with him for the first couple of miles before I started flagging. Then Phil Clarke motored past with a brief word on a hill and that spurred me on again for a while before he too slipped away. Around mile 5 there was another hello and Jeremy Lewis appeared on my right shoulder and helped me recover my pace again before easing off. At around mile 7 my friend from Wilmslow running club caught up with me and we ran together for the next 3 miles or so but I tired as we came off the bottom of the big hill and I lost him. By now the cold and rain had sapped the heat, strength and any remaining suppleness out of my legs and the last two miles seemed to drag on for ever during which time another Flyer past me (I assume Jeremy Bell). As I rounded the last corner by the Church I was sure I had broken my PB and was confident that I had even done better than I had hoped but was totally unprepared for the 1:37:57 on the clock (1:37:46 Chip Time). So all in all a stunning race but I know that I couldn’t have done it without the inspiration of those running with me and more over those that turned out in the wind and rain to support us. Thank you!

Did the Wootton half yesterday which I’m sure you’re getting all the results for my time by my watch from start to finish was 2.27.52 and their time was 2.29.21 which is the difference in getting to the start line (and also born out at the half way point which was also two minutes difference)! Very pleased with this as it means I did a PB which is just over 12 minutes quicker! I’ve realised my training should consist of going out drinking, eating curry, staying up to watch Ricky Hatton fight and getting a couple of hours sleep……

This was the 4th year of the Bedford Half Marathon incorporating the Beds AAA County Championship and indeed the AAF Club Championship.

The conditions almost mirrored the previous weekends Luton Marathon "wet and wild" (said the actress to the bishop) However it did not stop 20 Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers flying the flag for the club. (try saying that after a few beers)

The course is 13.1 miles undulating loop starting and finishing at Wootton Upper School. The race took us out towards Box End, Astwood, Cranfield, Upper Shelton and back to Wootton. The conditions were far from ideal and some roads had turned into rivers and for good measure the wind joined in too. This distance seems to suite me for some reason and I was hopeful of strong finish and being greedy was also wishing to keep my run of PBs going.

Darren farr made an early break in his first half marathon, then it was Tim Hunt and myself running the same pace for most of the race and it was soon clear it was going to be a fight for club vet 40 champion between me and Tim. God knows I tried but Tim evidently had the better run netting him V40 Club Champ.

Darren had a great run club champion and Beds AAA County senior Champion on his first half Marathon. Myself (Martin Beare) 3rd flyer home 3rd V45 Beds County champion and another PB

3 seconds separated Jim dodds and Phil Clarke and showed good form. All flyers had showed great grit and spirit on what proved to be a tough race throughout.

3 flyers had braved the conditions on there bikes to support us all, namely Steve James, Phil Holland and Dave Sedgley, on behalf of the club I thank you for that much needed encouragement.

As ever the course marshalls were in my mind the heroes of the day, without there spirit, cheer and smiling faces the race would have been that much harder and longer, and I have no doubt that all 1,400 finishers join in with me on that one.

I personally enjoyed myself and came away with far more than I could have hoped.

A wet and windy day made the Luton course very challenging. After completing a gentle ascent to Streatley, runners turned left towards Sundon and were hit by a fierce wind and horizontal rain. Somewhere along that stretch an unfortunate man had been given the job of handing out wet sponges – I don’t think he had many takers. When I’d completed my leg I felt utter respect for the marathon runners who were to do it another 2 times.

Hats off to Richard Jones for the performance of the day running the full marathon. The rest of us had it easy with our 8 and half mile runs. Top quality Flyers teams were in abundance showing great depth in the club with 4 teams in the top 13. The Elite squad producing a superb 2^nd – a repeat of last year. If only there’d been a team of teams trophy!

Other Flyers were spread around the field. I ran for one of the 4 Harlington teams organised by Ex-flyer Mike Alcock whilst Martin B and Jeremy Lewis guested for Boxfit.

Overall the race was very well organised with lots of marshalls and police to close roads. Just not sure why relay results are in such a mess? (As per last year apparently)

On Sunday, 2 December over 180 teams lined up to tackle the Luton Marathon Relay.

A Flyers trio of Harris, Wadsworth and Hartley first tasted success in 2006 by finishing second to a University of London team on a wind swept day. Hopes centred on better weather for 2007 but this wasn't to be. 30mph winds gusted all morning which would make it difficult for athletes to find some rhythm, and the competitors were regularly lashed with rain. Credit to the marshals and spectators who were steadfast, and to the marathoners who would go the full distance.

With six Flyers teams, three marathoners and Flyers providing the backbone of other teams there was plenty for the club to cheer. A combined race went off at 10am and Paul Farmer (Flyers Elite Team, Leg 1) settled into the lead pack. Farmer was 3rd back after 8.5 miles and handed over to in-form Adam Peters. Peters quickly demolished the lead established by the London Frontrunners Team and pushed on with Paul Adams (Tergat 222). A speedy second leg saw Peters improve the Flyers placing to 2nd, only 6s behind Tergat 222 - game on. The 3rd and final leg fell to Stephen Hartley who chased down marathon backmarkers to cement the Runner's Up birth in the Luton Marathon Relay, the club's second successive appearance on the podium.

There were plenty of Flyers in action and determined runs saw three AFF Teams in the top 10 which is a fantastic achievement.

Richard Jones (3:37:02) flew the Flyers flag in the marathon on the grimmest of days.

This was my 3^rd and Pete’s 2^nd trip to Lanzarote to compete in the annual International running challenge – 4 races in four days. The first a 10K road race, then a 13K off -road climb up to a ridge of a volcano, then a 5K beach run and finally a 21K (half marathon) across the Island back to Club La Santa, where we were staying.

Once again we travelled with runners and members from Leighton Buzzard AC and the week was a mixture of running, racing, exercising, drinking and generally enjoying ourselves. Club La Santa, where we stayed, is a haven for all sportsmen and sportswomen. Professionals use it for warm weather training and the facilities cover every conceivable sport – and you have the option to participate in as many or as few of them as you wish during the week.

The Challenge attracts runners from various countries with Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Denmark and England having the majority. With 5-year age categories it meant all runners had something to aim for in each race and the competition was always fierce but friendly with many runners renewing old battles!

5K running is seldom best tackled with a headwind. This said, and completely undaunted, Adam Peters opted to 'cane' the Stevenage 5K course for the 2nd successive time. I asked him beforehand if he was going for a time or, given the inclement conditions, a series position. His response 'Both'.

Thus, with the objectives clear, off he went and duly obliterated his own club record. The 15.49, set only 2 weeks ago, has now become part of history as Adam has lowered it to 15.30!! To put this in to perspective, that is sub 5-minute miling. Given the massive margin of improvement, we can now start to consider that 14 something is now an option.

Back in the real world, I finally broke 17 minutes, after only five years of trying, dipping just under with 16.58 (V40 Club Record). What an anti-climax that was.

Our other club representatives generally missed out on PB's by 5 or 10 seconds but all bodes well for the last outing here in another 2 weeks time.

This was the 42nd running of this race which was originally held around the Wolverton rail sheds. The race soon grew out of this course due to its popularity, and it was subsequently moved to its current venue.

The course being 2 laps round MK's Willen Lake which is fast and flat, and weather permitting is grounds for PB's.

The 13 flyers turned up more appropriately dressed for skiing rather than running such was the cold wind blowing across the lake and any thoughts of PB's where evaporating, however I was up for a bash with nothing to loose.

The start was cramped and slow but soon panned out. I hung on for the whole 2 laps 5 miles and it was a tough race from start to finish, this was probably the hardest race I have run all year, but oh deep joy a PB 32.54 shaving 1.30 mins of my previous best.

Ady was first Flyer home in 28.21 and a well deserved 3rd vet (sporting his AFF tailored vest). Peter Benedickter had a great run to post 29.35 2nd flyer and then me Martin Beare 3rd flyer. The boys, Phil Clarke and Jim Dodds where fast coming up the rear (all together now "oh matron!").

All the times where very respectable given such harsh conditions on the day. well done flyers. Nice to see Dave Sabey returning from an illness and recovery.

Hi there for Taupo where summer seems to have arrived as it was warm for the duathlon last night with rasping throat to add to the bursting lungs and wobbly legs.

The SPRINT duathlons just do not suit the older generation but some of us are slow learners.

No duathlons next week as we are hiking in the Ruahine Range which are reportedly so steep even the native species put out anchors to stop falling off

The concrete, tarmac and underpasses that represent the Stevenage 5K course somehow jointly lend themselves to performances that break records and personal bests.

In weather that was cold enough to warrant long-johns but on the upside 'breezeless', the Flyers acquitted themselves admirably.

It is generally maintained that this is one of those courses that is so mundane/bland in it's appearance, with the final kilometre uphill, it is difficult to understand why it delivers. And yet, year after year it does. No wonder the series is a sell-out every year!

With a maximum field of 350 runners, the start was cramped. The wiser ones were mindful of stray elbows and it generally took some 200 metres before thing settled down and you could relax in to your stride.

Adam Peters and Peter Benedickter (representing Luton on this occasion) Junior took up the early running and with some big names present they did well to maintain their positions. Benedickter Senior (in AFF colours) had a fast start, hoping to crack the 17.30 mark. Also breaking records and PB’s for the club were Jeremy Bell, Jim and Helen Dodds, Jane Cook and Phil Clarke with a new V55 record and four recording PB's.

With the last kilometre approaching, Adam had to surrender the lead to James Robinson (the U17 winner from West Norfolk AC at the Ampthill Trophy), eventually turning in in third place but more impressively, beating his own jointly held club record by some 16 seconds. Ad's run therefore becomes the first sub-16 minute jaunt at 15.49, something that he has threatened for some time. Congratulations!! Benedickter Junior, struggling following illness ran in a respectable 16.43.

Ady Wadsworth, chasing that elusive bl**dy 17 minute barrier, baulked in the fourth kilometre, recovered in the fifth and turned in a 17.02, a new V40 club record (two more attempts left to get 16 something).

Phil Clarke, already the holder of the V55 club record at this distance, finished in 19:56 to improve his PB and shave another second off the club record.

Jeremy Bell and Jim Dodds had both had in mind a crack at the 20 minute barrier, agreeing beforehand that this would be a chance to recce the course before a PB attempt later in the 3-race series but unable the temptation to go for it on the night. Both finished under 20 minutes with Jim shaving 24 seconds off his previous PB and Jeremy 39 seconds to join the ‘under-20 5K’ club.

The Flyers ladies were represented by Helen Dodds and Jane Cook. Helen was first lady Flyer home and Jane achieved a PB with a time of 32:48.

This race is my favourite race in the years calendar. This race is different for various reasons. Firstly its run midweek, secondly its a rare opportunity to run alongside the forces and most importantly of all there is a massive feast of cakes, doughnuts and biscuits like the mad hatters tea party.

I was that eager to run this race I was the first competitor to arrive and I had to knock the base commander out of bed

7 flyers had managed to get the day off, all either semi retired or self employed.

There is always a tale to tell and today was no different, whilst on the coach to the start at old warden, I noted a very familiar voice from the seat in front of me, it turned out to be John Motson the voice of football who gave a running commentary for the journey.

The race got underway in near perfect conditions, personally my main aim was to get a PB for this distance, although the course is undulating. I pushed hard from the word go and maintained an even pace and by the midway point I was confident I was on for a good time. The military police made sure of a clear passage through all major roads and junctions,

As I crossed the finish line I was surprised to see I was only 15 seconds inside my previous best as I felt I had run much better, however job done got my PB 1.8.31 which was the aim.

Arch rivals Rick Hollingsworth and Andy Atherton had their usual battle, Rick finally taking Andy (oh matron) at the top of the last hill back to base.

Nick Stone had a solid race to post a PB and the girls, Val and Pat, had good steady runs.

As ever it was no surprise this race was organised and run to military precision and RAF Henlow were the perfect hosts, I have run some big races this year namely London marathon and the Great south, and this race ranks alongside my favourites and I will be there next year for my 4th consecutive go at this historic event.

On Wednesday, 14 November I was selected to represent the Dept of Work & Pension in the Civil Service XC Champs at Elmdon Sports Ground, which is next to Birmingham Airport. Coming back from a 2mth calf injury I had only run for the last 2wks so didn't pitch my hopes to high. To finish the 6 mile race in one piece would do just fine, and not having done any hill reps, a flat course was just the ticket.

I got penned in at the start and slotted into 30th place grateful not to be wasting energy by going off too quick.

Mile splits (5:44) were pretty even and much better than hoped for so I gradually moved thought the field to bring my team home and finish 15th.

An encouraging run which didn't aggravate the calf and a Veterans Team Bronze Medal was icing - yes, I am nearly that old!

Needing some motivation to get going again after the successful Lydiard Legend back in late September I had a go at one of the local Monday night TARTS duathlons.

This placed me at the back of the “big” boys and a fair bit in front of the casual entrants. The bike leg was easy going but 1.8km runs are like sprints for us ancients and painful / not easy etc.

May reduce the run time next time and certainly aim to reduce the Transition times – if fingers, equipment and appendages plus eye-hand-foot coordination cooperate (if you know what I mean).

[Webmaster note: I could not believe it when I saw Austin was running in a TARTS race! But at least he's running.]

It was a mentally grueling course as we had to make 2 laps around the same course and the 2nd lap was extended a bit longer to make up for the distance, with a final 400m lap around the track to finish.

Dunstable XC - Sunday, 28th October 2007

39 Flyers travelled to Dunstable to kick off the 2007 Cross country season. The team were greeted by damp and windy conditions but this did little to dampen spirits as a record field of 375 gathered..

The start saw a large group make their way up to the first loop of the course and, after a cagey start, North Herts’ Neilson Hall took the lead and never looked back. The pack behind soon spread out buffeted by wind and rain which was most apparent at the higher points of the course.

Adam Peters (2^nd) was first back for the Flyers and Phil Holland opened his 3C’s account with an impressive 13^th. Nick Jones (49^th) just had the legs on Dave Olney (52^nd) in a tight finish.

Amy Farr (12^th) brought our ladies home and there was excellent packing from Shelley Mayles (60^th), Julie Hodgson-Smith (61^st) and Laura Johnston (62^nd) who grafted effectively as a unit.

The first race of the season saw 7 of our men finish in the top 20 and encouraging performances from first timers Matt Harvey and Annette Turner. This all paid off with a solid club 3^rd which is an excellent start to the season - individual performances are bound to improve and a few faces have yet to start which makes for a bright future

	Club	Points Total	Ladies	Men
1	Wootton	107	32 (3)	75 (1)
2	Bedford Harriers	170	16 (1)	184 (3)
3	Ampthill	202	79 (7)	123 (2)
4	North Herts	251	30 (2)	221 (5)
5	Stopsley	279	76 (6)	203 (4)
6	Dunstable	408	48 (4)	359 (6)
7	Wellingborough	438	70 (5)	368 (7)
8	Leighton	606	99 (8)	507 (8)
9	Northampton	670	99 (8)	570 (9)
10	Biggleswade	900	200 (11)	700 (10)
11	East Haddam	1039	172 (10)	867 (11)

What a fantastic place for a Marathon. We would thoroughly recommend it. A great city to run into and a great place to recover from your run. Tough at the end with the 5k causeway and the 14 bridges at the end but a potentially fast course, relatively unobstructed and very friendly. Rebecca and I had a great time and PBs all round (thanks to Beckys encouragement)

I entered this race before the Cross Country dates were announced, so a bit unwillingly I made the trip over to Wisbech to line up with 339 strangers on a blustery and rainy morning out in the middle of Fenland. After a surprise and un-announced start that caught me fiddling with the settings on my garmin, things settled down and we were off along some very pleasant and reassuringly flat country lanes. The only "hills" were a couple of bridges over the A47 early on, and with the rain easing off I was lulled into pushing on a bit. All was still going suspiciously well at 7 miles when we turned for home and simultaneously emerged from any form of tree/hedge protection to run straight into a what felt like a gale force wind. The next two miles were quite hard [and slow] but I was surprised to find that I could muster a bit of unusual acceleration over the closing stages to get a fairly reasonable finishing time.

Despite the conditions I thought this was a very enjoyable and well organised race that in perfect weather would give some very fast times - it was won this year in 55:30 by a very fast bloke from Norwich.

This race is Europe's premier 10 mile road race and the UK's 2nd most popular race only losing out to the Flora London Marathon, as voted by runners world, with entries limited to 18,500 the race attracted a world class field.

I was partnered for the day by my Triathlon coach Dave Coard from Boxfit, if this was not good enough both Dave and I had best wishes from former world champion boxer Billy Schwere who we met the day before.

On the day any chance of a PB were dashed by the fact we were exposed (oh matron) to high winds and driving rain off the coast of Portsmouth. As in the London marathon there were 3 different starts and were blessed with the elite start.

Helicopters hovered above and TV cameras poised the gun went off and we were off, i tried so hard to pull back and not go off to fast, but from the start I instinctively knew I was going to have a good race, so I did what I normally do and ran the race by the seat of my pants rather than using technology.

I kept an even well judged pace throughout and soaked up not only the rain but the great atmosphere and support from thousands people lining the closed roads. I even heard a go on you flyer from the crowds.

The last 2 miles along the front were the hardest as we had a strong head winds and driving rain which was almost pushing us backwards.

My efforts were rewarded with a time of 1.08.56 and finishing in 280th out of 18,500 while Dave had a very creditable time of 1.03.30 and finishing in 90th place

Although the weather was far from ideal I really enjoyed the whole experience and will be first in the queue for next years entry.

Ampthill Trophy "What a Glorious Day" - Sunday, 21 October

Hosting an off-road event in October always means a nervous check of the weather forecast in the lead-up to the event but this time we couldn't have asked for a better day. A series of dry and bright days had left Ampthill Park in great condition for racing. The Beefeater Trophy had an enviable reputation for picking the fine day so it's great to see its modern equivalent continue the tradition.

Course setters arrived at dawn to see bright, clear skies, and the stillest of day combine at just the right at time.

Then as the sun rose this special place was bathed in autumn gold which framed Ampthill Park at its very best and made a crisp dew sparkle. One imagines that anyone scarred by memories of school cross country will have been cured for once and all.

Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers welcomed athletes from far and wide who gathered to celebrate the purity of cross country racing.

The Royal Mail strike did little to dent advance entries for the 5th Ampthill Trophy race - thank you - and late entrants pitched up in their droves.

The Race HQ, Parkside Hall, was a hive of activity as Chief Marshal Nick Jones delivered a final briefing and Flitwick Scouts laced the air with the smell of bacon rolls.

The bright sunshine and blue skies on Sunday meant that we even had some feedback that it was tough work in the heat - not what you'd expect in late October. We had the biggest field since re-starting this event, with 41 junior runners and 202 finishers in the senior event.

The juniors were off first after an encouraging pep-talk from Mike Petty, the race starter. It was encouraging to see a larger field than in previous years, it looks as if our efforts to work with local schools and clubs are starting to pay dividends. A trio of very quick entrants from West Norfolk AC won all their categories with Bex Daines (FU15), Henry Loughlin (MU15) and James Robinson (MU17) all prize winners. Tom Stead (Riverside Runners ; 7:55) was first back to defend the title he won last year with Lucy Hayes (Newcastle Staffordshire AC) collecting the FU13 prize (8:18), just reward for travelling. Wellingborough School also supported the event with a team who picked up a second in the U15's for Peter Holley. Richard McGuirk, their cross-country master, lead by example with a solid performance to finish 42nd in the senior event. It was really good to also see a lot of first-time juniors and a good number of Flyer's children - Matthew Bell, Emma Turner, Natalie Foster, Matthew Bailey, Emily Tillott and Zoe James all putting in a great effort to collect a well-deserved finishers medal.

Next it was the main event, the senior race. I was hoping to describe constantly changing positions and tussling for the lead but Highgate Harrier Ryan McKinley looked comfortable from the start and maintained a steady pace to record an excellent win (28:45) on his first visit. An ageless Paul Gregory (Aylesbury Vale AC) followed him home in second to finish 1st MV40 and MV50 (29:27), and LBAC's Simon Coombes (29:42) stuck to his guns to capture a well-earnt 3rd. Geoff Newton (Tadworth AC; 35:29 ) was on the podium for a 3rd successive year to collect the MV60 prize.

Phil Holland (8th) was first back for the Flyers, combining with Ady Wadsworth (14th) and Peter Benedickter Snr (16th) to land the Men's Team prize.

In the Ladies Race Donna McEwen (Bedford Harriers) continued the purple patch with another scintillating win (32:38), with Kirsty Wigham (Wootton RR; 33:43; 1st FV35) and Juliette Minter (34:03) respectively 2nd and 3rd. Mathilda Scheuber ( Stevenage and North Herts AC ; 43:19) was back again to keep away the U20 ladies title that she won last year. The Flyers own Jackie Foster (41:25) powered round to bag FV45 and Magaret Chew (44:40) claimed 1st FV55. No surprise that Donna McEwen, Carla Fisher and Sally Cartwright collected the Ladies team prize - the Bedford Harriers take some beating when their ladies turn out in force.

It was good to see quite a few groups supporting the event in strength, with Dave Coard bringing a group from the Boxfit Tri Club in Luton and the local running clubs were also well represented, particularly large groups from Bedford Harriers, Wootton Road Runners, North Herts Road Runners, Yaxley Runners, Stopsley Striders and Biggleswade AC.

So thank you to all the competitors who supported this event. It is good to see so many runners enjoying (if that's the right word!) running in the same park where Liz Yelling won her first ever race as a junior and where Paula Radcliffe was a multiple junior winner and came back to win the senior race. Those are some names for the current crop of junior runners to aspire to!

Thanks to the businesses that sponsored the event:- Physiotherapy, Sports and Spinal Clinic - Camping and Caravan Ltd. Ampthill. - Urban and Rural - Waitrose

Last, but by no means last, thanks to all those who helped to prepare and run the event, the marshals and officials on the course and the crew back at the race HQ ( including the Flitwick Scouts who provided a great service of bacon rolls and tea/coffee). Finally, thanks to the County officials Steve Crane and John Catlin who provided support and expertise to support the Ampthill & Flitwick Flyers team.

Once Ampthill Park had been stripped of all signs of activity about 40 Flyers gathered at the White Hart for a convivial beer and a tasty roast. A fitting end to a successful day at the races.

Jeremy Bell

Race Director

A fantastic result for Dave Brown representing GB out in the USA. Dave finished 3rd for GB and was the 20th Elite Man:

Race was going well and had moved into top 10 placing with 20km to go on the bike, I then had some big issues as I was relying on the organisers for my energy replacement but they had run out of stuff and only had water. So 80 odd km of riding on water and I bonked big time compounded with the 26 degree day it was tough road to the finish line. Looking forward to getting back to the Uk mud and cold of cross country running, so keep me updated.

George, Ed and I set off for Amsterdam on Saturday morning. An easy journey and found our “budget hotel” fairly easily. Met the locals who didn’t quite understand George’s request for his national dish for breakfast the next day – but then Ed and I were a bit bamboozled by his “D’yu doo oots for breakfast”. Only Kellogs and toast were on offer.

After scaling the North Face of the Eiger to the compact bedroom for four on the top floor we set off to sample the delights of Amsterdam. Found a great pasta restaurant and set off to rendezvous with the Welshman at the expo. Only Ed had managed to book the pasta party on the website – the rest of us failed the IT challenge miserably. Unfortunately they were sold out, but with a combination of natural charm and a hard luck story about travelling from the other side of the world to get to Amsterdam, not to mention the lack of porridge for breakfast, George managed to acquire three more tickets and we spent the next half hour trying to make sense of the slogan I Amsterdam.

The Expo was OK and George and I managed to buy some particularly fetching tights as we had both forgotten to bring anything to put on after the race. Ed was not impressed warning us there was no point as they are not designed to keep you warm! He was right of course. Paul arrived from Newcastle and it quickly became clear as we were earnestly discussing race tactics, strategies, negative splits and the benefits of all those Saturday morning runs, he was already focused on the post race entertainment.

The pasta party was very good with just a hint of what was to come with Gatorade dominating proceedings. We then unsuccessfully tried to find somewhere to watch the rugby, and after rejecting numerous venues for being too crowded or too drug filled we ended up watching the Swiss broadcast on a 12 inch portable in our bedroom which had a habit of losing reception at regular intervals and spent the time attaching running numbers and chips! Such dedication.

So, off to the race. There were about 6500 entries, with over 1000 runners from Britain. The course was very flat. We’d already walked the “undulating section” of the course near our hotel which made Steppingly Road look like a serious hill session. It was a moderately interesting and scenic run in perfect weather conditions I was hoping to break 3:10 but that proved a bit much and came home in just over 3:11. Too many long slow runs over the summer! Ed broke 3:30 after having not run for two weeks because of a cold. George broke four hours without any serious distance running for 5 months! Both ran great metronomic runs to reach their targets. Paul, obviously with his mind on other matters, cramped up in the last 6 miles, and came in at 3:46.

After the race Mr Owen came to the fore and showed great stamina and leadership (of the astray type) and an interesting evening was had by all, but that’s another story ..

The Club marathon championships are awarded for the best recorded times in any marathon event during the calendar year. The current leaders for 2007 are as follows:-

I thought the race started at 10.45, so just made the 10.00 start in time, thanks to some assistance from Seggers.

I was the only Flyer in a small field, and enjoyed the trail run, despite being decidedly unfit. The 1/2 marathoners started later, and my thoughts were with them going up that wicked hill near the finish. Look forward to finding out how they got on.

It was a pity that the numbers were small, 10 in the 5K, and 26 in the 10k, as the event was well organised and marshalled.

Talked to a guy from Liverpool AC, who ran in our 10K, and was very pleased with his medal, which he said was the best that he'd ever received. It's good to receive positive feed back

As it is my plan to run a Marathon in December I am in need of long runs, so got up this particular Sunday and decided to get a late entry on the tough and challenging X/C half marathon course, also hoping to hide and just have an easy training run on this relatively new event, but oh no the Flyers have a habit of turning up where and when ever there is a race on.

There were 7 known Flyers in the half marathon and 1 in the 10k race, all races started and different times. The turn out was surprisingly good given there were 2 other main races locally on the same day.

I told Phil Holland who his main rivals were (winner 2006 Bryan McKinley and 2nd place 2006 Grant Ramsay). I told Phil he had a chance of a good 3rd spot and duly gave him his orders. I was just going to have an enjoyable run and let the pack go off.

It was not long before I found my self in the zone and my early easy pace was paying off as I was picking the runners off as they fatigued (for the want of a better word). My 2nd lap was really enjoyable as I got faster as the race progressed.

I finished 13th overall in a time of 1.36.46 on this tough course, Phil delivered as ordered in 3rd 1.24.28. The winner was as predicted Bryan McKinley, who later went on to win our Ampthill Trophy a week later.

This event is not to be underestimated and I have no doubt that it will grow in future years and will attract a quality field and remember folks in the words of Jim Bowen "its all for charity"

This event was launched last year and attracted 1000 runners in 2006. In 2007 they doubled that number and over 2000 of us ran a mixed-terrain route between Harpenden and Redbourne. There was a mixture of grass, off-road paths and closed minor roads on the route with lots of local support to spur you on. We had a celebrity starter, Frank Bruno, who raised a few laughs before setting us on our way. Then it was off across some long grass for a fairly slow first kilometre. After that we were on farm tracks for another 2K, until we headed onto the road by Redbourne golf course. This rises to the highest point on the course, so the harder surface didn't result in a pick-up of pace. After that the course is quite flat, running along a disused railway line for around a kilometre. I used to live in Harpenden but my poor memory let me down when I kicked too early and whizzed past several people just after 9K and had forgotten to leave any energy reserves for a final hill up to the top of the park where the race finishes. So, you've guessed it, they all got me back up the hill and we finished where we were at 9K. I finished in 45:26 and as I had some 47.x times with injury earlier in the year this was at last a move back in the right direction

I completed a very relaxed, thoroughly enjoyable and worthwhile 7.5 mile run on Sunday 14th October. For the second year Muscular Dystrophy Campaign in Royal Berkshire put on the Trial of Trails. The event was only £5.00 to enter (all proceeds to Muscular Dystrophy) plus any optional sponsorship you care to raise. Starting at Reading it heads down tracks, woodland paths, concrete farm tracks and bridleways, passing a vineyard and alpaca farm and finishing in Pangbourne (2 stops away by train). a team of 4 of us ran, getting lost once and completing the run (plus 1/3 mile!) in a raucous 1 hr 24 mins.
Jo Wright 1.24.00

Interesting results from standalone. I ran my best time for this course, but not quite a PB. My watch said 52:59 and my chip time 53:07 which I think is more seconds out than I would have expected! Of course my gun time was slower as it did take a minute or so to cross the start line. But then I find myself asking what order did we all come in?? I was passed by Laura at 5k and struggled like mad to keep up, eventually overtaking her at 9K and holding to the finish. But on chip time she came before me! Ouch! I am now confused of Clophill - lets go back to the days where someone stood at the finish line with a piece of paper and we didn't have to pay 15 quid!!

This race is a hidden gem in the running world. For some reason it’s never advertised (not many Harlingtonians know about it!) and runners seem to know about it through personal invitations and word of mouth. Hence entry size is low and variable - 2005 saw 112 finish, 2006 – 53, and this year 56.

The organizers of this quiet village race had no idea that a host of top class runners were to descend on the race this year providing an epic duel between AFF and Luton AC’s finest youths. As a watching Tim Harris said “the final top 10 would match that of any major local race”.

A very traditional race, as ever the runners gathered at the start for 11 whilst the race director waited for the church bells to chime before giving instructions. You then have to listen very carefully for his very quick ‘1-2-3 Go’ which can leave experienced runners stunned.

An interesting route, the race starts on the Village Green and heads down towards Sundon before taking a sharp left. Inexperienced runners tend to go flying off down the hill leaving themselves short for the second half which has one tough incline and then a long hard drag back up Westoning road to the green. This is where places can change easily.

Adam Peters was first Senior home but a young lad from Luton (again) came home first in 17.17. Paul Farmer, returning to race fitness finished well and just ahead of Ady Wadsworth who grabbed his first Vet title.

Phil Clarke went off fast and had 100 yards on me for most of the race, but with previous knowledge of this course I held back something for the final hill. I battled hard and by the finish I’d whittled the lead down to 20 yards. Kara Farmer and Deborah both grabbed prizes. Perhaps the most remarkable performance of the day was from the first lady home who achieved this pushing her toddler in a pushchair!

After a long summer of training walks (involving arduous pub lunches) and a possible cancellation with a broken toe it was a relief to get to the start of the Long Mynd Hike in Church Stretton. Well, almost at the start – we went from having plenty of time to kill to suddenly being short of time to get to the start. We quick-stepped a mile from the car (and nearly being disqualified) we set off in last place.

We did manage to overtake some people, however anyone we overtook then dropped out. We orienteered our way around the 50 mile course which included 8 (near vertical!!) peaks and ascended the equivalent of a third of the height of Everest (and it felt like it) starting at 1pm and continuing through the night. We finished after 24 hours and 40 minutes, with aching legs and lots of blisters, finishing in last place.

The general idea was that the course was completed within the 24 hours, but the course marshals were so impressed with the determination of an all-lady team that they allowed us to complete the course (and saved us a delicious breakfast – baked beans with rather thick skin on it and sad looking fried egg – personally I have never had such a good breakfast!)

On Wednesday, 3 October I was selected to represent the Dept of Work & Pensions in the annual road relay.

Finsbury Park is hardly the flattest place to race but at least the potholes have been filled since I last had a go. This was welcome but someone had been heavy handed with the road chippings - could have brought a boot full home to top up the drive! The relay is for teams of 5 with each athlete racing 2 laps (2.7 mile), and I was the DWP anchor man.

2.7m doesn't sound a lot - 5K pace one would think - but the hills make 10K pace a more realistic target. The problem is that most only realise this at the start of lap 2.

Our first leg athlete came home 6th, thoroughly whacked and legs 2-3 managed to give my team a chance to bag bronze. Sadly, the MOD had other plans and opened up a convincing gap to flush us out of the medals.

I ran my first lap to plan and lapped in 7:15 but the hills were too much and I had to settle for 15:12. Mine was the quickest leg for DWP but it wasn't enough to catch the MOD athlete who scorched a fanciful 14:00, but then he regularly subs 4mins for the 1500m. A very pleasant afternoon and I shall try again next year.

I took part in the Biddenham 10K River Run yesterday. I was surprised to see only two Flyers there although I understand that there were at least five of us. Given that I started near the back the rest must have been up front. I guess everyone else must have been competing in the Great North Run or Bedford Triathalon.

This was a very easy and scenic run over mixed terrain mainly along the River Ouse and footpaths along the golf course. Apart from some bottle necks where it was single file this was a really enjoyable run and the weather surpassed itself. Hope it is as good for the Ampthill Trophy in a few weeks time. I completed the run in 57.50 which whilst not a PB was OK given the difficulty in getting past people. It may have helped to start nearer the front as I came across people walking after 2km which didn’t help.

Will do this race next year and would recommend it to anyone wanting a gentle Sunday morning run through the countryside

Under threat of death if I opted to run the 10K in lieu of decorating the lounge, I duly found myself on yet another starting line. Yes, I know that I will pay for this time over but what the hell, you are only young (!!) once.

The difference between 10.30 and 11am saw the weather change from nippy to warm, unfortunately the former being the preferred condition. Still, with the promise of a flat course, albeit off road, and with sound advice to wear racing flats we set off with a hop and a skip. Tarmac turns to grassy field, turns to muddy field, turns to towpath etc., etc. For those not familiar with this course, it is extremely flat and winds itself along one side of the Ouse, before it terminates at a bridge crossing to bring you back along the other side of the river. Most of it is fine to run over bar the odd stile to negotiate but overall, and as 10K'S go, it is mightily pleasant.

The early leaders included our own Mr Wadsworth, slightly perturbed (his own words) to find himself at the very front of the field, but with over exuberance eventually getting the better of him to see him drop back from the leader and eventual race winner.

The Flyers had five out with Robbie Craig, Jim Dodds, Paul Farmer and one other as yet identified runner, trying to gain some all important Grand Prix points (like your guile lads).

Ady Wadsworth clung on (most definitely just clung on) to 2nd place, some 30 seconds behind the winner. Paul Farmer, back from injury and with almost no training since, was way back at the half way point but monstered the second half to run in a fantastic 3rd place, closing down very quickly on 2nd.

Jim Dodds was moderately pleased with his time, perhaps not allowing for the slowing effect of the running surface and Robbie Craig was after points, so time was secondary.

This was the third time I have run this race and went into it with some optimism with a planned 1;35 on the cards. I had managed to blag my way into Section B and for weeks had dreamed of an open race with no-one to dodge around for the first 13.1 miles. Unfortunately, Section B was actually quite large and I made the mistake of entering with only 9 mins to go to the off. There must have been 4-5000 still in front of me. At that point the pen was jam packed and I was stuck at the back. My hoped for time evaporated in the next 3 or so miles due to the crowds and my 7 min mile plans turned into 11 min miles. It did eventually open out a bit at around the 4 mile mark, but by then I was never going to catch up and so settled into a steady run instead. As usual, the course was packed with supporters, water and bands all the way. It was a lovely sunny day and when the pressure is off to get a time, you do definitely enjoy it more. Nice T-shirt and medal but ultimately disappointed in truth to finish 3589^th. Great race to do if you simply want to enjoy a run without a time being aimed for.

Did manage to do another 8 miles at the end of the race, which caused wholesale derision and disbelief form the supporters and some of the runners as I ran back along the course. Being verbally abused by 40,000 people was not in the plan. Yes, I know I’m going the wrong way, no I’m not trying to show off, yes clearly I am certifiably insane, no I’m not cheating , yes I have been to the finish etc. I even had one bloke have a pop cos I stopped at the 21 mile mark and still had 5 miles to go!! And Wales lost the day before!! Not a good weekend all in all!

	Swim 400m	Bike 25k	Run 5k
Dave Brown	7.07	38.04	16.31	1st Overall
Martin Beare	7.08	50.50	20.39
Kieron Lewis	6.23	41.41	18.08	3rd Overall
Phil Holland	8.24	52.02	No time recorded

This Triathlon marked the end of the season and was centred around Bedford Park.

I arrived beneath the stars at 5.45 am to get a good spot in transition, feeling somewhat under dressed in flip flops and shorts.

After what was a cold dark start borned a beautiful bright sunny autumn day and the scene was set for a good thrash round (oh matron)

I was in good company as our own Dave Brown, Kieron Lewis and Phil Holland joined me in what was a quality field.

Phil Holland and myself finished only 5 seconds apart in the last event and it was always going to be close on this one.

I had a strong swim and myself and Dave brown were separated by only 1 second. Dave Brown went on to win the event outright.

Early prep had paid off as i had a fast slick transition to the bike, the sun had dried the damp roads which meant i could ride with confidence, Kieron Lewis and i met up at half way point and words of encouragement were exchanged.

Another fast transition to the run boosted my confidence together with good support from my sister, phil Holland and wife nicky, and the Hollingsworths and an enthusiastic crowd, surprisingly the run was a P.B

Phil had a good strong race with a vastly improved swim, unfortunately the organisers had failed to record phils run time which evidently messed up his overall time.

As ever the dependable Kieron Lewis had an excellent race and finished 3rd overall.

Dave Brown took overall honours in style with outstanding bike and run times, Well done lads.

The FLM draw took place at the Sweatshop Special Event on Thursday, 20 December. The lucky winners are:
26443 Mike Petty	26444 Lisa Bassett	26445 Robbie Craig
The deadline for entry is 11th January 2008. And the reserves...
1. Ali Brockenshire	2. Sam Freer	3. Tim Hunt
The best of luck to everyone - experience shows that reserves have a genuine prospect of making the start line because others succumb to injury, colds... Might be worth identifying an ultra-distance race 2-3wks after FLM so that if you don't make the line the training and commitment isn't wasted.

Date	Name	Time	Venue	Age Rating	Category
29-Apr-2007	Karen Hollingsworth	4:19:41	Shakespeare	57.18%	Senior
22-Apr-2007	Katherine Rivers	4:29:49	London	51.46%	V35
15-Apr-2007	Valerie Von Arx	4:55:27	Paris	53.00%	V45
21-Oct-2007	Richard Jones	3:11:09	Amsterdam	70.48%	Senior
22-Apr-2007	Chris Jenart	3:24:51	London	64.32%	V40
29-Apr-2007	Nick Stone	4:04:18	Shakespeare	63.17%	V50