Not content with competing in the Burnsall fell race the day before, Fiona and Mark had entered the Clitheroe tri-athlon. This consists of a 400m swim in the Roefield pool, a 30k bike ride round Longridge fell via Bashall Eaves (including a pleasant climb up Jeffrey hill!) and back through Hurst Green to Roefield followed by a 8.7k run along the Ribble Way. Steve the wimp had cried off with the excuse that his mountain bike wasn't suitable for a 30k road race.
Results (203 finishers, 6 DNF) Winner Robert Wilson - Team trisports - 1:41:30 (7:28/56:17/37:46) 1st lady (18th) Sarah May - Calderdale tri - 1:49:04 (7:13/1:02:29/39:23)
When you consider that the winners are almost professionals our pair were AWESOME!
Submitted by: Steve Davies - 328 - created on Tue 24/Aug/2010.
August 2010
Title: Burnsall Classic Fell Race
Location: Burnsall, Yorkshire
Date of event: Sat 21/Aug/2010
As most of you know, this is the oldest fell race in the country (and probably the shortest) and is part of the Burnsall Feast Sports which also includes a 10 mile road race. The course is from the centre of the village across uneven fields up to the foot of the fell. From there it's every man and woman for themselves as the single file track climbs up to about 900ft, round the rock at the top and then again a single file steep descent back to the fields via a stone wall before the final sprint to the finish in the centre of the village, a total of about 11/2 miles. This year's race was the centenary of the record breaking run by Ernest Dalzell from Keswick who completed the course in 12 min 59.8 secs. The most remarkable thing about the record was that his descent was timed as 2 min 42 secs - not bad for 3/4 mile when you realise how difficult the rock - strewn descent is. Apparently, he leaped the wall in his heavy running boots ( no Walsh's in those days) but still his time was disbelieved by many including the local vicar. This remarkable record stood until 1977 when Fred Reeves (Fell Runners Champion for 10 years in succession up to 1979) finished in 12:47.2. There is a prize for 1st to the top and the ARR prize would have gone to Fiona who stormed past both Steve and Mark. Unfortunately, she has not yet developed the knack of disengaging the brain before the descent but she will before long.
Winner - Rob Hope in 13:59 1st lady - Helen Glover in 18:45
Mark Hammond - 23:09 (99th) Steve Davies - 24:47 (110th) Fiona Glenn - 25:37 (115th and 12th lady)
Submitted by: Steve Davies - 327 - created on Tue 24/Aug/2010.
August 2010
Title: Race the train
Location: Tywyn, wales
Date of event: Sat 21/Aug/2010
Race the Train 2010
Once again the girls are talk of the town !!!
For the past umpteen years Peter Blackledge has gone on about getting ARR to come down and take part in some race where it's 'you verses the train' and it is what it says! You pretty much run along the side of a train track hoping to get to the other end before the train does, (yes a REAL train !!!) oh and the train is on a nice flat track carrying the odd passenger and you're on some tracks, fields, bogs, rocks a few hills the odd stream and what ever else they can think of to slow your chances. The race has been going now for over 25 years and on average around 50 males and maybe 3 females manage to beat the train. This year a record 170 men and a record 9 women managed the hardened task and this had nothing to do with a slow train or good running conditions. The train always finishes around 1hr 47mins and it poured down during the race. I just think the standard of competitor was very very high this year. 10 ARR made the trip to run against the train and once again an outstanding peformance went to Sarah Ridehalgh, although not keen on the 'off road scene' not only was she first to finish from our club and not only did she beat over 700 racers to the finish, she was 2nd lady overall, narrowly pipped to the finish by just 43 seconds. Next to finish in identical times, although they hadn't run together was Graham and Chris, graham making up well over half a mile on chris in the second half of the course in the chase to also beat the train. Kaye and Julie soon follwed to put ARR firmly on the running map. 15 other clubs had females competing for the team prize but once again no one could knock little ARR off their perch, just another team trophy to the girls of ARR. Ant Ridehalgh was 3rd male counter for ARR just going over the 2hr mark on this tough cross country/fell course, the experienced Larry Greenwood who is a vet at this race showed both Louise and Carole a clean pair of heels, although rumor has it the two girls spent more time sight seeing and chatting with the locals than trying to beat any trains ?! Last home for Accy was race trip extraordinare and as of this weekend unofficial points race President Peter Blackledge, this time finishing minus the help of the local NHS. By far one of the hardest races i've ever done, which makes Sarah's result even better, but at the same time a truly amazing race, with a great atmosphere followed by one of the best presentations I've ever seen! 10/10 for all the marshalls, helpers, locals and general organisation. And without any shadow of a doubt a must for the calander next year.
52nd Sarah Ridehalgh 1.37.55 55th Chris Barnes 1.38.21 56th Graham Morris 1.38.21 341st Kaye Callaghan 2.00.51 396th Julie Brady 2.03.41 476th Ant Ridehalgh 2.10.40 582nd Larry Greenwood 2.19.36 586th Louise McAuley 2.19.53 587th Carole Morris 2.19.54 645th Peter Blackledge 2.26.55
799 finishers
Submitted by: Chris Barnes - 326 - created on Mon 23/Aug/2010.
August 2010
Title: Worsthorne Fell Race
Location: Burnley
Date of event: Fri 13/Aug/2010
Congratulations to Vicci and Nicola on finishing 2nd and 3rd in the Burnley & Pendle GP. After 10 races there was only 2 points between them, with Vicci just taking the runners up position at the last race of the series. She had a great run to finish 2nd at the Worsthone Fell race, 5 minutes faster than her 2008 time, with Nicola 5th. All our ladies performed well with four in the top ten, including Debbie (1st in her age group) and Lisa. Male performance of the day must go to Chris Barnes, he was our first man to finish in 11th place overall. He timed his run perfectly, finishing very strong and overtaking a number of runners in the last mile. Austin also produced a good run, normally a “back marker” he finished in front of 8 other runners.
Chris Barnes 45:58 Graham Morris 46:14 Glen Goodwin 48:36 Vicci Mousley 51:58 Debbie Gowans 52:18 Nicola Wood 53:22 Lisa Boyle 57:41 Carole Morris 63:09 Andrew Hollas 65:11 Neville Watson 65:29 Fiona Glen 66:57 Steve Davies 74:16 Austin McBride 75:17
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 324 - created on Wed 18/Aug/2010.
July 2010
Title: Moonraker 10K
Location: Middleton
Date of event: Thu 22/Jul/2010
Another brilliant “turn out” from ARR for our 4th point’s race; with 20 members competing. Not an ideal course for fast times due to the winding route, but this didn’t stop some good performances. Barry continued his good form by winning for the second time and was 3rd in his age group. The battle for second place went right to the last mile with Shaun just edging out Graham. Sarah wasn’t on top form - suffering with a cold, but she still won the ladies race by nearly 4 minutes. Both Glen and Philip finished in the top 40 closely followed by Eliot, who won the male junior prize. Pete had a great run and was 4th in his V50 age group. Kaye our 2nd lady to finish, continued her improvement and was 3 minutes faster than her last 10K, she also collected a prize for being 2nd in her age group. Suzanne made it a “clean sweep” for the Bailey’s by winning the female junior race. Two prizes for Lisa in her first 10k for ARR, she was 3rd in her age group and part of the winning ladies team, which also included Carole. To complete a successful day she also beat Michael. Paula, Ruth and Maxine had great runs all recording PB’s, with Tom, Ian, Peter & Janet all faster than the last 10k race.
Barry Brock 36.53 Shaun Livesey 37.46 Graham Morris 37.54 Sarah Ridehalgh 38.33 Glen Goodwin 40:19 Philip Morton 40.33 (PB – 4 mins faster than previous race-well done) Eliot Bailey 40:50 Pete Waring 44:15 Kaye Callaghan 44.31 Suzanne Bailey 45:06 Lisa Boyle 45:28 Michael Coward 45:39 David Smith 47.42 Carole Morris 49.09 Paula Taylor 51:07 Maxine Morton 51:27 Tom Batterick 51.36 Ian Tomlinson 52.34 Ruth Dawson 53:15 Peter Hoyle 54.53 Janet Holden 56:13
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 323 - created on Tue 27/Jul/2010.
July 2010
Title: Liverpool Triathlon
Location: N/A
Date of event: Mon 19/Jul/2010
Congratulations to Eliot Bailey on completing the Olympic distance in the recent Liverpool Triathlon. Not only did he complete the gruelling course he also won his age group. Despite him suffering with cramp, he hobbled over the finish line 30 minutes in front of second place finishing 95th overall from over 700 competitors in a fantastic time of 2:26. The event includes a 1500mm swim, 40k bike ride and 10k run. Well done Eliot great result.
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 322 - created on Mon 19/Jul/2010.
June 2010
Title: SOTOS 10k
Location: Fleetwood
Date of event: Sun 27/Jun/2010
Tremendous support from our members in the 3rd road race of this year; with 22 members competing in the SOTOS 10k Fleetwood. Although the course is flat and ideal for fast times, the extreme hot conditions made PB’s very difficult to achieve. The race for the 2010 male champion is getting very close, with 3 different winners in the first 3 events. Barry and Shaun made a really fast start with only Paul and Sarah able to follow. At 5 miles Barry made his move and edged past Shaun to get his revenge on the previous race. Sarah was the only lady under 40 minutes and won the ladies race by over 3 minutes. Paul in his first 10k had a really good run, finishing 25th overall and making up our top 3 men. Glen continued his good form by reducing his PB and was 30th overall and 4th in his age group. Both Philip’s were under 45 minutes with Philip Dunn faster than last year. Kaye, Louise & David all finished in the top 100. Fiona was persuaded off the “fells” onto the road and was closely followed by Paula. Peter continued the rivalry by just beating Janet, both of them well under an hour. Colette picked a difficult race for her first one, but she finished strong and beat 38 other runners. Karen was 2 minutes faster than last year and Ant pulled a muscle but still managed to limp over the finish.
Barry Brock 36.51 Shaun Livesey 37.02 Sarah Ridehalgh 37.46 Paul Wilcock 38.45 Graham Morris 39.39 Glen Goodwin 39:47 Philip Morton 44.02 Philip Dunn 44.38 Kaye Callaghan 47.24 Louise McAuley 47.38 David Smith 47.40 Paul Jackson 48:58 Carole Morris 49.17 Fiona Glen 51.11 Paula Taylor 52:42 Ian Tomlinson 54.12 Tom Batterick 56.02 Peter Hoyle 58.24 Janet Holden 5844 Colette Mallabourn 63.40 Karen Jackson 65:23 Ant Ridehalgh Injured
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 321 - created on Mon 28/Jun/2010.
June 2010
Title: Aggies Staircase
Location: Darwen
Date of event: Fri 25/Jun/2010
Another well supported point’s race with 16 members competing. As with last year we won the ladies team prize, this time with Nicola, Lisa & Kaye. Nicola also won a prize for 3rd lady and Austin received a bottle of Champagne for the sportsmanship award, although last he came through smiling. We had 4 men in the top 50 helping us come 2nd in the team event just behind Clayton. Well done to Maxine on her first event for Accrington, quite a tough race to start, but she had a good run.
9th Graham Morris 32:13 12th Philip Baldwin 32:51 18th Glen Goodwin 33:46 27th Andrew Bush 34:40 46th Philip Morton 37:18 57th Nicola Wood 38:12 (3rd lady) 71st Lisa Boyle 39:45 (5th lady) 75th Kaye Callaghan 40:05 (8th lady) 86th Michael Bowkley 41:51 96th Fiona Glen 43:32 (12th lady) 101st Carole Morris 44:21 (13th lady) 109th Paula Taylor 45:16 (17th lady) 114th David Graham 46:16 117th Maxine Morton 48:07 (19th lady) 119th Ruth Dawson 48:15 (20th lady) 125th Austin McBride 51:52
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 320 - created on Fri 25/Jun/2010.
June 2010
Title: Long and winding hill
Location: Longridge 7
Date of event: Sun 06/Jun/2010
Longridge 7 2010
A points race in which Accy were fairly well represented, there were a lot of yellow vests about, but some were Darwen Dashers. Luckily the weather was dull and there was even rain in the air. This race was not for the faint hearted, uphill for 4.25 miles then downhill for the remainder of the 7 miles. Our Sarah won the ladies race by more than one minute and she was an incredible 11th overall. Our top man on the day- and fast becoming the man to beat was Shaun Livesey, finishing 5th, just over 3.5 minutes behind the leader. The ladies were disappointed that there was no team prize as next lady was Julie Brady 7th lady and then in came Kaye Callaghan 11th lady finisher. The men did equally as well with newcomer Barry Brock in 8th place, Paul Wilcock was an excellent 12th. John Wieczorek and Glen Goodwin both achieved places in the top 20, thus showing that whilst our club seems to have been dominated by female runners in recent years, the man’s team is now a force for any other club to respect. We had lots to applaud at the prize giving including Janet Holden winning the F50 prize. Thanks to a good band of spectators for supporting when the going was tough; Graham, Ian, Ann and Sophie and Simon shouting patronisingly from the top of the hill- when he’s running again we can get our own back as he struggles to regain his fitness! This is definitely a race to enter again though the Christmas time version looks more attractive with Christmas puddings as prizes.
Winner- Jon Fletcher, Border Harriers 40.01 Shaun Livesey- 43.52 Barry Brock – 44.32 Sarah Ridehalgh – 45.17 Paul Wilcock- 45.52 John Wieczorek- 47.51 Glen Goodwin- 48.06 Chris Barnes – 50.24 Philip Dunn- 52.07 Julie Brady- 52.57 Anthony Ridehalgh- 54.01 Kaye Callaghan- 54.31 David Smith- 55.07 Carole Morris- 57.04 Nancy Bailey- 1.00.04 Paula Taylor- 1.01.17 Peter Blackledge- 1.01.19 Tom Battrick 1.07.11 Janet Holden 1.11.20
Submitted by: Nancy Bailey - 296 - created on Wed 09/Jun/2010.
June 2010
Title: Bowley Hill Trail Race
Location: Great Harwood
Date of event: Wed 02/Jun/2010
For the second year our vice president Harry Haseley volunteered to organise the Bowley Hill Trail Race. This event is run in conjunction with the Great Harwood Show, start and finish in the Showground across from Nightingales Garage. The “hilly” course is 5.5 miles and follows a path around Whalley Nab and over Bowley Hill.
Shaun had a great run and was our first runner back, officially 5th place, but with the winner and runner –up taking the wrong route should have been 3rd. Sarah won the ladies race by over 7 minutes closely followed by Chris in his first race back after injury. Ant (with the performance of the day) was our third man to finish helping us to win the men’s team prize. Not to be “out done” Kaye (3rd lady) and Carole (together with Sarah) won the team prize for ladies. A clean sweep of prizes also included Fiona, winning in her age group.
Thanks to all Accrington Road Runners that supported this event and to Paul & Karen Jackson, Kim, Julia, Dave Hep & Graham for marshalling the course and Ady for the photos. The race was won by Paul Guinan of Blackburn 42:19, total number of runners 43.
Pos. Name Time 5th Shaun Livesey 44:52 7th Sarah Ridehalgh 45:41 8th Chris Barnes 45:44 20th Ant Ridehalgh 53:01 24th Philip Dunn 54:44 25th Kaye Callaghan 55:33 26th Mark Hammond 55:13 31st Carole Morris 59:32 33rd Fiona Glen 60:13
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 289 - created on Wed 02/Jun/2010.
May 2010
Title: Stanhill Fell Race 2010
Location: N/A
Date of event: Thu 20/May/2010
There was a record Accrington “turnout” for a fell point’s race at the Stanhill Race on Tuesday 18th May. Although the ground was hard the weather was great and conditions ideal for fell running. Everyone performed really well with a number of our runners collecting prizes. Debbie was 1st lady and together with Vicci who was 3rd won the ladies team prize. Steve came 1st in his age group despite twisting his ankle, with Carole and Graham also collecting prizes. We had good performances from our men, with 4 in the top 20 in particular, Glen, (probably our most improved runner) and Andrew in his first fell race. Our ladies also performed well even though some had taken the wrong route. Due to a "stag party" Paul Calverley started the race but was unable to finish. "Must have been a great weekend! Presentation was in the Britannia, and for those that stayed enjoyed a great supper including sandwiches and chips. Thanks to our supporters Anne & Baby Sophie and Chris for the photos.
The race was won by Ashley Holt from Rossendale 30:50. Blackburn won the Men’s team prize with Accrington 2nd.
5th Graham Morris 32:39 12th Shaun Livesey 34:33 16th Glen Goodwin 34:59 18th Adrian Nicholls 35:14 19th Andrew Priory 35:29 27th Debbie Gowans 36:28 31st John Wieczorek 37:19 33rd Vicci Mousley 37:26 34th Paul Wickham 37:54 37th Nicola Wood 38:30 41st Philip Morton 38:58 51st Lisa Boyle 41:09 56th Kaye Callaghan 42:33 62nd Carole Morris 46:38 67th Louise McAuley 47:30 68th Alison Hargreaves 47:45 73rd Ruth Dawson 51:32 75th Steve Davies 52:07 77th Paula Taylor 53:37 80th Austin McBride 62:31
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 288 - created on Thu 20/May/2010.
May 2010
Title: Wholan Nook
Location: Burnley
Date of event: Tue 11/May/2010
There were 86 runners who turned out for this brand new mid week race which is the third race in the Burnley & Pendle Grand Prix series. The race started & finished near Clowbridge Resovoir & was partly trail but the rest was on road. Seven runners from the club took part. The winner was Marc Hartley from Staffs Moorlands AC who finished in 27:08. The results from our runners are as follows:
Glen Goodwin 32:01,17th male Victoria Mousley 34:07,2nd lady Nicola Wood 34.18, 3rd lady Kaye Callaghan 38:08, 8th lady Louise Mcauley 39:23, 11th lady Andrew Hollas 40:04, 56th male Peter Blackledge 42.53 64th male
Submitted by: Nicola Wood - 287 - created on Wed 19/May/2010.
May 2010
Title: Pinhaw Moor
Location: N/A
Date of event: Fri 07/May/2010
126 runners took part in the Pinhaw moor race on Friday 7th May. There was a great turn out from ARR and some fantastic results for our runners! In the mens category the race was won by Tom Addison in 30.39. Graham Morris was the first finisher for ARR finishing in 8th place in a time of 33.46 and winning the prize for his age group too! Shaun Livesey not too far behind in 34.13 securing 11th place. Glen Goodwin 36.43 Andrew Hollas 44.32 Peter Blackledge 50.38.
In the ladies race - Molly Ralphson (Trawden) was first finisher 37.52. Victoria Mousley 2nd - 39.09 Nicola Wood 3rd -39.49 Lisa Boyle - 7th 43.54 Kaye Callaghan 12th - 44.45 Louise McAuley 13th 45.01
Great turn out! Well done all who ran!
Submitted by: Victoria Burke - 284 - created on Mon 10/May/2010.
May 2010
Title: Race The Train - Campsite Info
Location: N/A
Date of event: Tue 04/May/2010
Race The Train
Campsite Details - For those wanting to stay close to start/finish
Vaenol Farm Caravan Park - 01654 710232 Aberdovey Road Twyn Gwynedd
This is the campsite which has been used before (Peter Blackledge) and it would be nice for those wanting to 'make a weekend of it' to stay on the same site.
It only has basic amenities, i.e. 2 showers - but I have been told there will be hot water - bonus!!
Prices are:-
Tent - £5 per person including hot showers Price is the same for children, unless under 2 yrs old
Caravan - £15 per night including awning. She did say it would include hook up but that if we wanted to be 'together' on site as a group we would have to share hook ups.
Motorhome - £13 per night, no hook up £14 per night, including hook up - again would have to share hook up.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads when on site.
Submitted by: Sarah Ridehalgh - 283 - created on Tue 04/May/2010.
May 2010
Title: Hameldon Hill Fell Race
Location: Accrington
Date of event: Sun 02/May/2010
There were 147 finishers, on a cool but dry afternoon, for this 6 mile, (1100 feet of ascent) first race in the Burnley & Pendle Grand Prix series. There were some cracking views from the summit on this clear day, perhaps Glen was admiring them too much when he fell & scraped his chest on the rocky descent! Here are the results for the Accy Road Runners, a complete list can be found at http://www.ukresults.net/2010/hameldon.html & photos at http://www.sportsunday.co.uk/portfolio95793.html
32 John Wieczorek M40 (006/018) 00:45:52 59 Glen Goodwin M45 (016/030) 00:50:02 70 Nicola Wood F (002/002) 00:51:19 77 Paul Calverley M40 (013/018) 00:52:22 84 Dave Gaskill M45 (024/030) 00:53:10 106 Andrew Hollas M40 (016/018) 00:57:57 114 Larry Greenwood M60 (005/009) 00:59:20 134 Peter Blackledge M60 (007/009) 01:04:05
Submitted by: Paul Calverley - 282 - created on Tue 04/May/2010.
May 2010
Title: Coniston Fell Race
Location: N/A
Date of event: Sat 01/May/2010
Great run by Debbie at the Coniston Fell Race, she was our first runner to finish this hard 9 mile route with 3500ft of climbing. Well done Debbie, showing the men a “clean pair of heals”
Debbie Gowans 1:39 Graham Morris 1:48 Steve Davies 2:01
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 286 - created on Thu 13/May/2010.
April 2010
Title: Hawkshead Trail Race
Location: Hawkshead
Date of event: Sat 24/Apr/2010
Whilst many people were away running the London Marathon, we opted for something a little shorter! Sarah, Debbie and I took part in the Hawkshead Trail Race - a 10.2 mile challenging course taking in some spectacular scenery and some very difficult climbs and descents including the infamous "Coffin Trail". It was a very warm and sunny day and on the start line the organisers listed famous names from the Mountain Running scene who were taking part.The course was fantastic with well placed water points and photographers, as well as friendly and supportive marshalls. Sarah had a fantastic run finishing as first lady in a super time of 1.17.40. Debbie and myself had more of a battle on our hands as we fought it out! Debbie caught me on the uphills, but I managed to close in again on the downhills. This continued with "Friendly" banter between us until we reached mile 7 when I finally managed to pull away. I finished as third lady in a time of 1.23.38, closely followed by Debbie as 5th Lady and first Vet in a time of 1.26.06. (On the results however there is a slight error which caused problems at the prize giving, one of the so called "ladies" noted on the sheet as 2nd lady was in fact a man who was running on someone else's number! So hopefully this will be changed shortly on the results.)
1 1:00:48 WALSH, James Leeds City AC 16 1:17:40 RIDEHALGH, Sarah (16th Overall and 1st Lady) 36 1:23:38 MOUSLEY, Victoria (36th overall and 3rd Lady) 52 1:26:06 GOWANS, Deborah ( 52nd overall and 5th Lady - 1st Vet)
537 runners took part.
Submitted by: Victoria Burke - 281 - created on Mon 26/Apr/2010.
March 2010
Title: Liver Hill Fell Race
Location: Rawtenstall
Date of event: Tue 30/Mar/2010
This race had been recommended on our web site and three extra members were impressed enough to enter and they weren't disappointed finishing ahead of the regulars. The rain stopped just before the start but the mud still came up to expectations (knee high). Glen was our first finisher most impressively in this his first fell race. Paul was next quickly followed by Nicola who had a fantastic run finishing 5th lady. Mark was about a minute behind Nicola closely followed by Alistair who had a great run considering he is still recovering from a severe foot injury. The race was won by Ashley Holt of Rossendale Harriers, the host club, in 34.56 and the first lady was Kate Trickett of Clem in 42.22. There were142 finishers.
Glen Goodwin V45 43.14 40th Paul Calverley V40 47.50 74th Nicola Wood 48.09 77th Mark Hammond 49.11 87th Alistair McEwan 49.25 91st Steve Davies V70 53.55 112th
Submitted by: Steve Davies - 279 - created on Fri 02/Apr/2010.
March 2010
Title: Liverpool Half Marathon
Location: N/A
Date of event: Mon 29/Mar/2010
Our first point’s race of the season was the Liverpool Half Marathon on Sunday 28th March. Although it was an early start 9.30am and the clocks "going forward" we were well supported, with 15 ARR runners competing. This race was used by many as a "warm up" for the London Marathon and attracted over 5000 runners.
Graham Morris 1.21 Sarah Ridehalgh 1.22 Paul Wilcock 1:25 Philip Morton 1:37 Julie Brady 1:37 Kaye Callaghan 1:42 Carole Morris 1.44 David Smith 1:45 Paul Jackson 1:45 Tom Batterick 1:46 Paula Taylor 1:52 Peter Hoyle 1:57 Amy Jackson 2:05 Ruth Dawson 2:06 Karen Jackson 2:11
Thanks to Janet Holden for her support, although unable to run due to an injury, she still managed to cover many miles taking photos around the course.
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 278 - created on Mon 29/Mar/2010.
March 2010
Title: Haigh Hall Relays
Location: wigan
Date of event: Sun 14/Mar/2010
4 mile
Another great result from our relay team, this time in the Haigh Hall 4 Stage Relay. We won the mixed team race and finished 8th overall from 25 teams in our first attempt at this event. The relay involves 4 runners per team each running one leg on a 3.75 mile traffic free course within the grounds of Haigh Hall Park. Graham finished Leg 1 in 8th place overall, then handed to Gretel on Leg 2. She ran great time, the 3rd fastest lady overall putting us into 2nd place in the mixed race. David Sturrock making his debut for the club and in his first race this year gained the important place on Leg 3 to put us in 1st place. Chris took the last leg, maintaining our lead and gaining 4 places overall, to bring the team home to victory. Thanks to Carole, Louise, Donna and Emily Sturrock for supporting us.
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 277 - created on Sun 14/Mar/2010.
March 2010
Title: Half Tour Pendle
Location: Barley
Date of event: Thu 11/Mar/2010
Our second fell race in two weeks produced an exciting finish, with Debbie just “piping” Vicci by only 20 seconds. Both girls had a fantastic run finishing 6th and 7th in the ladies race and in the top half overall, with Debbie winning a prize in her age group and 3 minutes faster than her 2008 time. After two races Debbie & Vicci are both level on points, looks like it will be really close this year for the championship. Steve Davis had another good run collecting a prize for 1st in age group. Well done Steve. Adrian in his first race for a while showed no signs of his injury finishing in the same time as 2008 and 74th overall from 244 runners. Good to see you back and on form. Fiona in her first Half Tour was only seconds behind Steve finishing in front of 14 other ladies. Martin and Mark completed our team of runners.
Adrian Nicholls 1:23:38 Martin Bland 1:28:04 Debbie Gowans 1:29:34 Vicci Mousley 1:29:57 Mark Hammond 1:40.49 Steve Davies 1:47:18 Fiona Glen 1:47:53
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 276 - created on Thu 11/Mar/2010.
March 2010
Title: Cross Country - Barrow - Ladies Race
Location: N/A
Date of event: Tue 09/Mar/2010
The final race of the season, and the scene was set for an exciting afternoon of racing. Sarah was on course for the overall individual championship and our ladies team had a good chance of winning the 2nd division title. After a tense journey up we arrived to see our arch rivals Chorley limbering up next to their massive tent. Michael Leeming was sent to listen in on their team talk while our girls warmed up out of sight at the other side of the field. This seemed to work quite well as Michael reported back that the Chorley team thought we hadn’t arrived and the title was theirs for the taking. Their faces soon dropped when our girls arrived at the start line looking very focused, accompanied by our supporters all in matching “team hoodies”. Once the race started we didn’t have it all our own way, and at the halfway stage we were in second place. Sarah made a great start to lead, after the first lap she was briefly challenged but eventually won by a comfortable margin to clinch the overall championship. Nicola and Gretel timed their race perfectly, carving through the field on the last lap, overtaking a number of runners (being coached by Team Barnes) to finish strong and give us a win by 6 places. Overall we finished the top ladies team on the day from 15 in total.
Big thanks to Michael Leeming and Chris Barnes for giving up their afternoon and driving up to Cumbria to support our ladies. Also to all the ladies that have competed this season in the league and helped us win the division and gain promotion to the 1st division in only our second season.
1st Sarah Ridehalgh 19:35 13th Nicola Wood 22:12 14th Gretel Jackson 22:24
Division 2 - final table 1. Accrington 2. Chorley 3. Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde 4. Kendal AC 5. Lytham St. Annes RR 6. Clayton-le-Moors 'B' #NUM! 7. Glaxo Hoad Hill Harriers
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 274 - created on Tue 09/Mar/2010.
March 2010
Title: Half Tour of Pendle
Location: Pendle
Date of event: Sat 06/Mar/2010
One of the best local fell races, The Half Tour of Pendle" took place on Saturday with a pleasing turnout of ARR runners. Conditions where good, clear skies and mainly firm underfoot. There was a good entry with 244 runners taking part. The race was won by Ian Holmes from Bingley on 1.03.50 with the first female Jo Waites from Calder valley in 1.18.42.
Adrian Nicholls was our first ARR home in a time of 1.23.38 with Martin Bland following in 1.28.04. Debbie was first lady back for ARR in 1.29.34 closely followed by Vicci in a time of 1.29.57. (well I had to let her win this one or she would not speak to me again!) Mark Hammond came in next in a time of 1.40.49 followed by Steve Davies 1.47.18 and Fiona Glen 1.47.53. This was a great race, in perfect conditions and both Debbie and Steve picked up prizes in their category, all for the bargain price of £2.50!
Submitted by: Victoria Burke - 275 - created on Wed 10/Mar/2010.
March 2010
Title: Noonstone Fell Race
Location: Todmorden
Date of event: Mon 01/Mar/2010
First of our fell races this season, Noonstone - advertised as Todmorden's toughest race for its harsh terrain making it one for the true fell runner. It tests speed, stamina, and navigational skills, as much of the route is unmarked. The route has 2300ft of ascent over 9 miles and this year was part of the English Championships. With limited entries available we had 4 runners competing, Chris was our first runner to finish, although not fully fit, his time put him comfortably in the top half. Vicci gained 100 club points as our first lady; she finished 26th overall in the ladies race from over 100 competing - well done. Next in Debbie, her time was good enough to place her 6th in her age group. Great run by Steve Davies he finished a fantastic 2nd in his age group. Well done to you all. 429 runners completed the race with Matthew Speak of Dark Peak winning in a great time of 68 minutes, the ladies winner was Olivia Walwyn of Altrincham in 78;38.
Chris Barnes 1:29:29 Vicci Mousley 1:35:27 (26th lady) Debbie Gowans 1:36:48 (32 lady 6th V45) Steve Davis 1:54:12 (2nd V70)
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 273 - created on Mon 01/Mar/2010.
February 2010
Title: Cross Country - Mens Race Wilsons 2010
Location: N/A
Date of event: Sat 20/Feb/2010
Although our ladies are very good; “just for the record” the men’s times are slower because their race is longer!!!! The men couldn’t match the ladies result, but did perform well: overall the team finished 13th from 19 teams with the vet 40 men an impressive 6th from18. The general trend for Accrington Road Runners seems to be improvement, whether in team relays or individual races the times just get better. This cross country was no exception, from the 13 men competing, 5 ran last year and all improved by a combined time of 20 minutes.
Graham Morris 36:03 - 2:30 faster than 2009 Matthew Baldwin 38:50 - strong finish to overtake Glen on last lap Glen Goodwin 38:54 - great run – first time under 40 for a cross country Andrew Bush39:21 - also first time under 40 mins Steve Ball 40:45 - great time in first race back after injury David Gaskill 41:49 - 3:00 faster than 2009 Philip Morton 44:38 – good improvement on last race David Graham 45:45 - 6:00 faster than 2009 Paul Calverley 45:55 - could have been faster if hadn’t missed the start!! Peter Waring 47:29- good time in first cross country Ged Kitchen 47:56 - 4:00 faster than 2009 Neville Watson 48:59 – under 50 mins for first XC – well done Nev Michael Leeming 54:01- 6:00 faster than 2009
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 270 - created on Sat 20/Feb/2010.
February 2010
Title: Cross Country - Ladies Race Wilsons 2010
Location: N/A
Date of event: Tue 16/Feb/2010
Yet again another fantastic performance from our ladies at Wilson’s in the Mid Lancashire Cross Country League. They finished 2nd overall from 21 teams, just beaten by Liverpool AC. With only one race remaining they look certain to be promoted into the 1st division. We had 10 ladies competing with the first five all finishing in the top 20 and 6 improving on their 2009 times. Well done girls.
Sarah went “one better” than last year by finishing 4th overall; 40 seconds quicker and kept her position on top of the individual league. Debbie also finished 40 seconds faster and was 2nd overall in her age group. Vicci bettered her 2009 time by over a minute and was closely followed by Julie, our most improved lady on the day, she finished 2 ½ minutes up on last year. Nicola and Gretel both in the top 30 ended the race within a minute of each other. Louise in only her second cross country finished strong in a great time with Carole (45 seconds better than 2009) a further minute behind. Fiona made a great debut for the team finishing under 30 minutes, followed by Alison also improving her time from last year. Thank you to everyone that came to support the team.
Submitted by: Graham Morris - 269 - created on Tue 16/Feb/2010.
February 2010
Title: Blackburn Winter Warmer
Location: Witton Park
Date of event: Sun 14/Feb/2010
A freezing cold Sunday morning saw a handful of Accy runners- those with a bad conscience for missing the cross-country and those who just like races with ridiculous hills. The Blackburn winter warmer is famous for its first 2 1/2 miles which just climb up and up . After that its quite a pleasant mix of downhill, a small hill and then some off road through Pleasington and Witton parks. The race was won by Ben Fish in a course record, Leanne Sheehy was first woman home. Accy runners felt is was not a day for personal bests especially as we were hampered by ropes and crampons! Shaun Livesey 38.29 John Wieczorek 40.55 Dave Smith 47.13 Larry Greenwood 49.29 Nancy Bailey 50.59 Peter Blackledge 54.03 David Heppenstall 57.54
Submitted by: Nancy Bailey - 268 - created on Sun 14/Feb/2010.
