Thanks to Ron Wallwork for retrieving these 1960s newsletters. Apologies for the reproduction of the same. I’m having a few problems with the computer.
Chris Bolton looking immaculate at Nijmegen. Standards have dropped!
With Dave Evans trapped in the Lakes, Roy Gunnett takes charge, competes and reports.
Roy looking perhaps a bit more stressed than usual
As with the clubs last two races, the Macclesfield Shield 10 mile race on Saturday 6th April 2024 was hit by challenging weather. This time it was strong gusty winds, courtesy of Storm Kathleen.
Despite this there was a good turnout of 9 walkers and 4 helpers.
New judge uses time- honoured tactics of hiding round a corner
The usual 5 lap ‘out and back’ course was used for the 10 miler.
From the gun Nigel Shaw took the lead, a lead which he maintained to the end of the race. It was an impressive performance for someone who has only taken up the sport in the last few months. His style is very safe and solid.
Nigel showing good form
Martin Payne, to halfway, followed closely behind Nigel. However, from this point on Nigel gradually extended his lead.
Martin in pursuit
Behind the leading pair was Roy Gunnett, who walked in third place throughout.
Joe leads Steve and Ian on the steady return climb from the Garden Centre turn
The remaining male walkers kept close together, until nearing the end when Phil McCullagh pulled away to come in a clear fourth.
Solid straight leg from Phil
Greg Smith retired after 3 laps (6miles) to take up his role as Club photographer. Many thanks.
Andrea, remarkable and gutsy as ever. Sailash can confirm
When taking account of age and sex Andrea Lennon’s performance was probably the best of the day. She maintained an even pace throughout and put in a really gutsy performance in the harsh conditions.
An overweight rabbit doing little running nowadays fascinated by the drama unfolding outside his abode
As well as winning the scratch race Nigel also won the handicap and was presented with the Macclesfield Shield trophy by Marshall Barnard.
Everyone after the race enjoyed the splendid buffet that Marshall always provides.
As special word of thanks must go to the 4 marshalls, without whom the race would not have been possible.
Eric Horwill was starter and timekeeper, aided by Alf Short, Glyn Jones manned the turnaround point and Sailash Shah marshalled at the crossroads.
Great to see Sailash back with us, posing on the aptly named lane
2. Martin Payne 1.55.19. (22.03,44.55,1.08.27,1.31.56)
3 Roy Gunnett. 2.06.26. (23.50,48.55,1.13.37,1.39.32)
4. Phil McCullagh 2.10.28. (26.40,52.36,1.18.06,1.45.00)
5 Joe Hardy. 2.11.47. (26.19, 52.45,1.19.22,1.45.51)
6. Steven Wilde. 2.11.52 (26.14, 52.44,1.19.16,1.45.45)
7. Ian Hilditch. 2.11.57 (26.18, 52.49, 1.19.24, 1.45.52)
8 Andrea Lennon. 2.33.51 (30.13,1.00.45, 1.31.56,2.03.06)
10k.
Greg Smith. 1.23.48
Handicap Results.
1. Nigel Shaw. 1.51.42
2. Roy Gunnett. 1.54.26
3. Martin Payne. 1.55.19
4. Ian Hilditch. 1.55.27
5. Phil McCullagh. 1.56.28
6 Steven Wilde. 1.57.52
7. Joe Hardy. 2.00.02
8. Andrea Lennon. 2.04.51
IMPORTANT
Adrian Edwards informs us that:
Sailash turned up at the last training session; walked with one hand in his pocket due to the shoulder problem; at least he was back out again. We have a little core of regulars and decided on the next future training date; Sunday 14th April, Woodbank Park, Stockport; 12 till 5 if anyone else wanted to come along.
Our next club race is the Macclesfield Shield 10 miles, which will take place from the Ex-Service Men’s Club in Sutton on Saturday, April 6th, starting at 1.00 p.m. The venue will be open from noon. As usual, it will be really helpful if you could let Dave Evans at dave.evans08@hotmail.co.uk know if you are attending and in what capacity. This will also assist Marshall in terms of the catering.
[Apologies for this brief notice and the lack of posts this month. I’m enduring a less than smooth recovery from surgery, which has knocked me off my stride!!]
As some might know, it was touch and go as to whether I would make the start of the ever-demanding Alison Trophy at Chorley. My flight from Crete was due to touch down at around 11 o’clock. In the event my dash from the overwhelming hordes at Manchester Airport proved successful. This said, in the murky gloom embracing the town I turned up first at the Roman Catholic St. Joseph’s before crossing the road to the Anglican St. Peter’s, where a family and friends attending a drizzly baptism were putting on a brave face.
Running round the back I entered the dimly lit hall of the Community Centre. Within I found only 5 shadowy figures, four garbed for action. My surprise at the sparse turnout was the result of not knowing that there had been last minute discussion about whether the race would take place, Dave Evans being trapped in the Lakes. Whatever the confusion, Martin, John, Phil and Roy were determined to brave the elements. Given I couldn’t race, courtesy of a hernia, my appearance was timely. I took on the timekeeping duties and, together with Eric Crompton of local fame sought to keep everyone on track. Out on the course we were joined in the task by Greg Smith, our by now official photographer, dressed sensibly for the weather. Somewhat normal for the area, it was freezing cold and the rain was unrelenting. Not being acclimatised I was bloody cold!
Martin away and clear
The conditions did not deter our quartet of hardy souls. In the opening stretch before the infamous lap to be covered thrice, Martin and Roy kept close company as did Phil and John. As ever the tough and tortuous climb on the opening section of the challenge took its toll with Martin pulling away from Roy, Phil beginning to drop John. From thence on the four individuals led an isolated existence. It’s a tribute to their fortitude that they ploughed on regardless. Although it must be said we had to coax Phil past a now closed public house where he had supped many a pint in its heyday.
Roy focused and in pursuitPhil drawing away from John
At the finish Martin’s strong performance pulled him well clear, whilst Phil put in a strong third lap to close on Roy. Finishing fourth John was moved to remark that his resilient effort would enter the ranks of his ten worst athletic performances. A harsh judgement, in my opinion.
According to John on his way to one of his worst ever performances. The next day he was doing a parkrun with his grandchildren. Bravo!
Back in the partial warmth of the centre, Eric true to tradition had brewed a large kettle of milky tea with biscuits to hand. To everyone’s delight the winner of the Alison Trophy was Phil McCullagh. Of course this feat was the subject of jocular remarks from our resident wit, John Crahan.
Phil acknowledging the roars of the crowd
In the ensuing post-race conversation we touched on the health of the much-missed Sailash Shah and the great stalwart John Payn. We hope to see Sailash soon and visits to John are in the pipeline. Sadly, Adrian Edwards has advised that the Horwich BMAF 5 kilometres will not be held this year. We explored again whether in the summer we might target a coupe of Park Runs, where we could organise a collective presence.
None the worse for wear after defying the elements
The business concluded, we set forth cheerily into the still surly Chorley air, pleased that we had kept the race-walking spirit alive in what was a heartland of our sport. The richness of this history owes much to the endeavours of the Leyland Motors Athletic Club, the story of which deserves a chapter on our club website in the future.
Alison Trophy 15 Kilometres [RWA Permit 24005/1]
SCRATCH
Martin Payne 1:42: 23
Roy Gunnett 1:54:08
Phil McCullagh 1:56:16
John Crahan 2:02:52
HANDICAP
Phil McCullagh 96:16
Roy Gunnett 97:08
Martin Payne !02:23
John Crahan 104:52
Thanks as ever to Greg Smith for the photos and apologies for the delayed report. I remained freezing in England till this last weekend and upon return I find myself booked in for an unexpected hernia operation!
Adrian Edwards advises: The next Sunday afternoon track session, open to any walkers who want to come along will be on Sunday 17th March at Woodbank Park track, Stockport from 12 noon.
Following our posts on the year 1958, Ron is hard at work piecing together the story of 1959. In the meantime we’ll share with you other material we unearth as it’s dug up! Find below a first club newsletter from July 1965, which was the forerunner of the CONTACT magazine. Reading between the lines you can sense a feeling of frustration that the club was not doing itself justice.
I’ve inserted here Guy Goodair’s amusing reminiscence of that Manchester-Blackpool race
1965
Wakefield had a full team this year and a Wakefield runner, Barry Fletcher looked after us – three weeks later I reciprocated by looking after Barry when he won the Liverpool to Blackpool Road Running race. There was a bunch of five early on but after 15 miles Mick Holliman & I drew away with George Barras & John Hampshire not far behind.
Inseparable – Mick and Guy passing through Horwich
George Barras had an unsettling moment in Chorley when he was almost knocked over by a car coming out of a side street and had to jump on the car’s front fender to avoid being knocked down! Once we’d passed Preston we faced a tremendous headwind which made progress hard work. The difficulties increased after St Annes when drifting sand kept blowing across the road into our eyes as well as sticking to the Vaseline we’d put on our nipples and armpits, acting like sandpaper.
Mick and Guy still together approaching Blackpool with Mick’s attendant in close proximity
Mick & I were still ‘neck & neck’ after the South Pier then Mick looked round for his attendant – the lady on the bike in the photo. Barry, my attendant, immediately screamed at me “Go, Go – you’ve got him!” I tried to increase my pace and managed to open up a 200-yard gap which I held to the finish. Wakefield packed well with George Barras 4th.
The race report in the Daily Telegraph by Peter Keeling referred to me as ‘Goodair, bespectacled and slightly built’. For years afterwards every time Chris Bolton rang me he would enquire if he was speaking to ‘the bespectacled and slightly built Goodair’!
1 G Goodair (Wakefield) 8.29.07 2 M Holliman (Highgate) 8.30.05 3 K Abolins (Royal Sutton Coldfield) 8.43.11 Team Wakefield 17 pts, 44 finished
Whenever I think about Chorley and our Sunday morning strolls [as they used to be called] I remember with fondness being out on the road with Eric Crompton. By chance this photo of the start of the 1975 10 miles championships held in Brighton has just appeared on Facebook. It shows Eric leading out the field with Roger Mills and Bob Dobson in close order. Eric’s 11th position was his best ever placing in a National, illustrating the great shape he was in. Coming through the ranks was a youthful Chris Harvey with Tony Malone in the first fifty. If the rift in our club, which saw the loss of Ron Wallwork, Julian and myself, had not occurred it looks as if we would have been battling for team medals.
Eric LA 155
Hopefully we will see Eric on Saturday, March 2nd when the Alison Trophy 15 kilometres is contested – starting at 1.00 p.m. from the St Peter’s Church Hall, Harpers Lane, PR6 0HP. As is usual it would be really helpful if you could let Dave Evans at dave.evans08@hotmail.co.uk know if you are attending and in what capacity.
Thanks to Dave Ainsworth for another photo of the 1975 National 10 Miles start at Southwick. Image supplied by Alan Buchanan.
A spread of the great and good with Shaun Lightman leading. Can you spot Tony Malone?
This photo is related to Ilford AC winning a first National walking title at Southwick in 1975 over 10 miles with a scoring 4 of Roger Mills 3rd, Steve Gower 9th, Lew Mockett 16th & Geoff Hunwicks 26th. Sadly only Roger, finger on the cork of bubbly, is still with us. Photographer : Mike Street RIP.
Given the sad news this last week, the deaths of three outstanding Centurions it’s good to sound a lighter note. Hazel Fairhurst, who became Centurion 983 wearing the colours of our club in 2002 on the track in Blackpool and who returned successfully to the 100 miles event in Middlesbrough last year, continues to race up and down dale.
Hazel with Tony and Graham
She comments: Pendle Way in a day 45 miles event done. Best result ever too. We’re going on a bear hunt came to mind a lot…. thick oozy mud….. a river, oh no we’ve got to go through it! I did the stepping stones like a ninja and didn’t fall once. Great navigation from my partners in crime Tony and Graham. Lovely support on the route too. Colin Vesty, the Race Walking Association General Secretary, was also competing.
Just as I was going to send this post on its way this message arrived from Dave Ainsworth.
Sadly much talented ex-International Steve Arnold of Nuneaton Harriers has passed on. Always a strong competitor, particularly in 50k races, Steve put much back into race walking with his commitment as a respected coach. He leaves behind many good memories of his time in athletics. Our condolences to his family members. Steve Arnold R.I.P.
Roy Gunnett advises that Steve won at Blackpool in July 2008 the BMAF 50k championships in 5 hrs 4 mins 54 secs. and that in July 2006 he won at Simister the Dick Smith 20k memorial race in 1hrs 52 mind 00 secs.
And here’s a touching and nostalgic video of Steve winning the 100th Bradford 50 kilometres in 2003.
I set this on a normal route from home, part of which is down Lifeboat Road that leads to the beach.
There used to be a Lifeboat station on the beach – but it has been washed away by the ever encroaching sea which is eroding the coastline. It was the oldest lifeboat station in the world (a fact officially confirmed by the Guiness Book of Records).
Great article you posted about the use of running in training for walking. I have always believed that running is a benefit to race walk training. The Spaniard Alvaro Martin, who won the 20k and 35k at last ‘years’ world championships, apparently does most of his training by running. I think Triathletes have shown how you can mix different disciplines to advantage – rather than detriment. When we were young runners thought that cycling would be harmful.
By the way – I liked your photo of Dave Bedford on route to the 10k world record at Crystal Palace. I was there that night – the crowd was fairly small as it was a Friday night. With about 8 laps to go the crowd was getting very excited as the commentator said over the loudspeaker that if he can keep churning out 67 secs laps the world record would be his.Each time he came round into the home straight the crowd went mad roaring him on.
I, like most, was completely hoarse by the end.!
Nigel Shaw - 5k time 31.23
First time racing on track and was an exact 5k – found it very bouncy under foot , very different to racing on the road.
Ken Connor – 32:14 I thought I’d send over my only attempt at a quick 5Km walk. January has proved be difficult with back / hip troubles causing some concern. I play table tennis competitively and have done for best part of 50 years. It seems adding the intense race walking to my training regime is causing a few niggles and a trip to the physio next hoping will help. Less moaning from me and ack to the virtual, Monday 8th Jan, Weates Close Widnes, 7.45pm bitterly cold, maintained a good rhythm but unable to red line it due to the cold air as I stomped around the block in 32.14. Time to put my feet up, that hurt.
Steven Wilde 38:56 Saturday 20th January 2024, Wigan Lane, Chorley. Just managed to squeeze in this walk through a small window of opportunity, as snow and ice were melting following sub-zero temperatures, but before the battering winds served up by Storm Isha. Roll on Summer.
Pat Evans – walked the local parkrun 5k in a very decent 37 mins 19 secs
Tony Bell 32:39 – Saturday 27th January, Millhouses parkrun Sheffield. Time 33.00 357/466, very crowded. It took me 21s to cross the start line so I claim 32.39 for 5km. I caught my wife Shelley (who was running) just after halfway so I had a pacemaker almost all the way from then to the finish!
Greg Smith – On 28 January clocked 34:32 for 5k–six and a half laps of my usual Bury Ground circuit. Late afternoon, starting to get dark so no photos. But at least there was no snow, or ice, or rain–a relatively balmy 9 degrees C!
Marco Bernatzki – very cold and windy weather. Therefore I can only offer a 35:50 this time. Greetings from Germany
Martin Payne – just back from the track 34:30
Tony Taylor – 17 January 2024 at 17:23 Municipality of Apokoronas, Greece, clocked 29:48 in perfect conditions – lucky bugger! Splits – 6:12; 5:54; 5:58; 5:53; 5:49
January Virtual 5 km SCRATCH
Tony Taylor 29:48
Nigel Shaw 31:23
Ken Connor 32:14
Tony Bell 32:39
John Crahan 33:36
Martin Payne 34:30
Greg Smith 34:32
Roy Gunnett 35:24
Stephen Walker 35:36
Marco Bernatzki 35:50
Pat Evans 37:19
Steven Wilde 38:56
HANDICAP
Roy Gunnett 27:44
Greg Smith 28:32
John Crahan 28:36
Stephen Walker 28:46
Steven Wilde 28:56
Tony Taylor 29:18
Tony Bell 29:39
Pat Evans 29:44
Nigel Shaw 30:03
Martin Payne 31:30
Marco Bernatzki 32:00
Ken Connor 32:14
Given our club’s proud history in the world of those indomitable souls, the Centurions, it is fitting that we acknowledge and respect the passing in the last few weeks of these three stalwarts.
Centurion 726 Basil Gale died, aged 92, on Saturday 27th January. He was a prominent figure with Trowbridge Athletic Club in their heyday. Basil became a Centurion in the 1982 Leicester 100 Miles on the Congerstone course, when 77 started/55 finished (including 33 new Centurions) – there was 1 d/q. Basil’s time was 21:32.32.
Very sorry to hear of the passing of Basil Gale (C726) a true stalwart of Trowbridge A. C. Race Walking particularly at the famous Chippenham to Calne Walks. Great days indeed! May He Rest in Peace. Sincere condolences. Bill Sutherland (C 890)
.Basil qualified in the same 1982 as I did (and Roger Michell too), the event memorably won by Mick Holmes as I said at the AGM. I was 33, Basil seems to have been 50 and perhaps this was his way of celebrating that milestone. All best Sandra Brown
Another one I knew well in my racing days, especially under Wally Emery’s guidance of the South West scene. February championships races – Salisbury10 miles – my favourite course. Hey ho … Ed Shillabeer
Very sad news about Basil Gale who has been a generous benefactor to The Centurions for many years. Chris Flint
Really nice chap and a friend to many. A fine Club walker. RIP Basil. Chris Maddocks
Centurion 838 Bob Watts died, aged 74, on Sunday. 28th January. For the Centurions he served a period as Archivist and as Editor/Compiler/Printer of the 1997 Handbook. He’d qualified as Centurion 838 at Leicester’s Congerstone course in 1988 clocking 21:50.20 in the colours of London Vidarians when 75 started and 47 finished (19 new Centurions). Bob’s most famous for completing 25 Roubaix 28 Hours races, for which he received a special presentation from the French Athletics Association. Nearer home he was one of just 6 competitors (all Centurions) to have completed 100 Blackheath 9K yacht handicap races – his final total reaching 110. Before making a name for himself in race walking he was a Long Distance Walkers’ Association active member. Bob is a race walkers who has competed sub-24 hours 100 miles races on both roads and tracks. Bob gave a much of his time to The Royal British Legion. He was aged 74 and unfortunately had suffered a lengthy period of poor health, with a number of hospital admissions.
Very sad news. Condolences to Ken and the rest of the family. Fond memories of the ubiquitous and never empty teapot at Roubaix, not to mention the inexhaustible memory of facts and anecdotes about walking. Cath Duhig .
What very sad news. I’m sure many of us didn’t think this wouldn’t be the outcome despite many health scares Bob has suffered over the last few years. Bob was certainly a legend in his lifetime. Kathy Crilley.
Bless him. What a stalwart! RIP Bob. Ed Shillabeer.
Sad news indeed. A stalwart Centurion. Sincere condolences to Ken. Thanks. Alex Ross C854.
A loss to Centurions and as a person. Bob gave me advice when qualifying in 1994. The hilly course at Hungarton. He did the same at Roubaix in 95. 25 Roubaix is tremendous! The brothers kept records. At Colchester or Newmarket Bob offered to give me my split times as they were very respectable. Another stalwart gone too early. Richard Cole.
Very sad news about Bob. Bob’s life and Ken’s has not been easy for many years since their Kenro printing presses ceased and their health declined. He and Ken and I formed the most successful 100 miles team in the ’90s and I owe them a lot. Chris Flint.
Very sorry to hear of the passing of Bob (C838). We enjoyed some wonderful times in the late 90’s when he attended our home for Centurions Meetings and we went to his printing shop many times when he produced the wonderful 1997 Centurions Handbook and he was a so familiar face at London Postal region Blackheath Meets. He was a true Clubman whose long distance record was truly remarkable. Centurions and UK Race Walking owes him a great deal of gratitude for a lifetime of selfless service. Sincere condolences to Ken and his family, in particular his wonderful supportive sister. May he Rest in Peace. Bill (C890) and Kath Sutherland.
Ken Livermore C836, died, aged 91, on Sunday, 28th January
It is with great sadness that I write to let you know that I had a phone call from Ken Livermore’s daughter Coral, to let me know that her father passed away on Sunday 28th January aged 91. Condolences to Margaret, Coral and his three grandchildren. Ron Wallwork
He was a great chap – John Eddershaw.
I was very sad to learn of the passing of Ken Livermore (C386). He was the ultimate clubman and racer (from 3k to 100 miles) … what an example to the younger generation … he adored his sport and regularly raced. Thankfully some of what he achieved is recorded. A member of Enfield Harriers he will be missed. Adrian James
Very sad news! Ken was a top race walking coach in the early 60’s. I vividly remember him at Eton Manor on the first occasion I went on a coaching weekend with many stars including Olympic Gold Medallist from Rome, Don Thompson and the likes of GB’s Late Robbie Brightwell and the Late John Cooper were there. He will be so missed by the Race Walking Fraternity as he gave so much in so many ways during his lifetime. May He Rest in Peace. Sincere condolences to Margaret, Coral and his Family. Bill and Kath Sutherland
Very sad. Ken was ever-present, part of the racewalking furniture and a proper grafter. Cath Duhig
So sorry to hear this sad news. Ken was such a lovely man and a good racewalker. Condolence to Margaret and all their family. Kathy Crilley
Sad news indeed. Condolences to Margaret and all their family. Bob Dobson
Another one passes away. Richard Cole
Such sad news and it’s especially sad we’ve lost three Centurions in the last few days, Bob Watts C838, Basil Gale and now Ken C386. Chris Flint
That completes the trio… Ed Shillabeer
We are very sorry to hear to hear this sad news. We remember Ken as both athlete and a dedicated official over many years of great service. Sandra and Richard Brown
Sincere condolences to Ken’s family. The Leicester to Skegness was the one I competed in with Ken. I fondly recall a conversation with Ken and admired his quiet determination to become a Centurion. I regret to this day that I never stayed with him to finish the course. May he rest in peace having finished the course of life and rise in glory. Roy Lodge
The first live event of the 2024 Lancashire walking club year took place in the leafy suburbs of Simister under a greyish sky accompanied by a coolish wind which appeared to affect the officials more than the heel toeing aspirants. The final race of 2023 was meant to be the Christmas handicap but winter weather forestalled the last race of that year and we had to revert to our old favourite – the virtual alternative.
On our way
Meeting for the first time since November it was encouraging to note that we all looked the same with some fitter than others. 11 walkers addressed the starting line under the watchful eye and watch of Eric Horwill and as they set off downrange the first signs of a personal duel reared its head in the shape of newcomer Nigel Shaw and the “old hand“ Tony Bell.
Tony and Nigel side by side
With Glyn Jones manning the 2500 metres turnaround I understand that Nigel and Tony were weighing each other up and as they cruised towards the end of the first of the two sections it was even steven. Both heard Eric enunciate 32 mins 50 and the gloves were off. Trailing this duo saw Roy Gunnett exhibiting his very efficient style of walking and a trio of Greg Smith, John Crahan and Pat Evans in relatively close proximity to each other.
Roy Gunnett
Greg Smith
John Crahan
John Crahan
As the clock ticked away the small collection of supporters at the finish tried to guess who would show first into the home straight and as the duo came into view it was Tony Bell in the lead with Nigel in his wake. It could have gone either way but Tony’s superior track speed and experience saw him take the win with a very spirited last 600 metres 9 seconds ahead of his younger rival (61) !
Tony outkicks Nigel
Andrea Lennon, a youngster in her 80’s , walked extremely well recording a very satisfying 43 minutes 39 secs , having opted to complete her day with a 5k
Andrea Lennon
Joe Hardy
Ian Hilditch
While we were patting ourselves on the back for a successful day thoughts were turned to Sailash Shah who during the ravages of the recent storms was quite literally swept off his feet as he exited his car and was blown across the road. Fortunately he was not hit by another vehicle but nevertheless had to attend hospital where he left waiting for a considerable time. He is recovering having damaged his rotator cuff This shoulder injury will take a while to heal and we send him our best wishes. John Payn, one of our 90 year old centurions , has had a fall at home and has been moved to a secure care facility to aid his recovery. We hear he is not complaining as he doesn’t need to make his own meals.
Alf Short
Alf Short, another of our centurions, has returned to the fold and walked with some style and will no doubt be back with a vengeance once he repeats more of today’s outings.
Results 1. Tony Bell (32:50)64:08 2. Nigel Bell (32:50)64:17 3. Roy Gunnett (34:42)69:07 4. John Crahan (37:50)75:00 5. Greg Smith (37:04)75:16 6. Joe Hardy (38:21)75:26 7. Phil McCullagh (38:33)76:40 8. Ian Hilditch (38:43)79:00 9. Alf Short (41:35)84:47 10 Pat Evans 37:57(5k) 11 Andrew Lennon 43:39(5k)
Phil NcCullagh
Handicap 1. Phil McCullagh 59:40 2. Tony Bell 59:48 3. Ian Hilditch 61:30 4. Nigel Shaw 61:32 5. Joe Hardy 61:46 6. Roy Gunnett 63:07 7. Greg Smith 63:46 8. Alf Short 64:47 9. John Crahan 65:00 10 Pat Evans 11 Andrea Lennon
Thanks to Martin Payne, the day’s official photographer.
STOP PRESS
However other photos were being taken. These snapped by Chris Harvey with Greg’s camera, I think?
Tony pulls away in the final few hundred metresNigel, a stylish second placeRoy, a solid third but we do need to do something about the splayed left foot. Inches lost on every stride!
Ron continues his fascinating and evocative return to the year of his arrival in our sport.
JULY Over the period 18th to 26th July the major sporting focus was was the celebration of the VI Empire Games in Cardiff. I followed the events in the daily papers; Herb Elliott holding off Brian Hewson to take the 880yds gold and particularly the domination of New Zealand runners Murray Halburg (with the withered arm) and Dave Stevens in the 3 and 6 miles races. A proposal to include race walking in future clebrations was submitted to the congress that takes place at each Games.
It was reported in the RWR Overseas News section that
The proposals for the inclusion of Walking in the future programmes of the Empire Games, submitted by the English representatives, did not receive sufficient support from the other member countries. This will be a big disappointment to our readers. The only opportunity for walkers of the Empire to meet in competition therefore will be in the Olympics every four year.
Of course being totally embroiled in the local walking scene, I don’t think the note in the RWR even registered with me.
Ron wins the 1966 ‘Empire’ Games 20 miles [note from TT]
The start of the holiday season and being the the ultra distance month; the Hundred and Nijmegen Marches, it’s not surprising that only ten walkers turned out.
Gomersal Open 15 miles – 12th July The course had the reputation of being the toughest in the country and Albert Johnson, who had been selected for the European championships a month later won with great ease in 1.57.14. His nearest challenger was his twin brother Ernie in 2.10.22. Dick Smith was the first of four clubmen in 7th/2.16.27, the others being Tom Dally10th/2.20.46, Bill Cowley 12th/2.25.58 and Sid Smith 14th 2.27.12.
On the same day Fred Pearce (S) was the lone club walker taking part in the Birmingham Outer Circle 25 miles. Don Thompson won in 3.34.52 and Fred was 44th of the 50 starters in 4.41.39.
Leicester to Skegness 100 – 18/19th JulyForty die-hards started this Leicester WC promotion and it was won by one of its members W.Smith in 18.02.37. The club had three walkers taking part, they were Fred Pearce (S) 17th/22.16.17, John Todd 22nd/23.07.37 who qualified as Centurion 285 becoming the 21st club member to achieve this and John Grocott 24th/23.28.18.
Nijmegen Marches The third week in July is the time slot for the Nijmegen Marches and the RWR reported that:The RWA Team captained by Joe Lambert of Lancashire Walking Club with only a bare compliment of eleven men successfully accomplished their task and were awarded the Team Plaque for doing so, thus maintaining the one hundred per cent record of RWA teams. Other clubmen in the team were Chris Bolton, Tommy Dunn.
AUGUST Three Club races, Two Opens and a Championship race meant plenty of choice for walkers in August and in response thirty Club members put in performances. Chris Bolton and Bob Turnbull toeing the line on three occasions.
Ron Wallwork, Mike Jeffreys, R.Howarth (Ley) and Jack Sankey at Leyland on 30th August
Market Bosworth Open 8 miles – 7th August Seventy-eight year old Jack Tempest was the only club competitor in this event was the last man ton finish in 22nd place clocking 97.23 and receiving a tremendous ovation. The race winner was Ken Matthews in 56.11.
NCAAA 7 mile championship – 16th August The NCAAA 7 miles was held at Rockingham Colliery and with his 11th place in the European championships behind him, Albert Johnson won easily in 52.57. Mike Jeffreys continued his steady form clocking 57.05 in 7th place. There were nine starters.
Burnsall Feast Open 7 miles Handicap – 23rd August
Jim Hackwood reported in the RWR issue 196 September – The annual Burnsall Walk grows in popularity each year and this year received its largest entry. R.Wallwork of Lancs.WC was an easy winner off a middle mark and this followed his success in the Rockingham Colliery race. Wallwork is quite a find for Lancs. Big and strong with a pleasing action, he should have a good chance in next year’s “Junior” 10 miles. Second was C.Norton (LWC) off a big mark followed by Les Radford, Lol Allen and John Proctor. Allen was the fastest actual.
Bolton Abbey
My recollections of this race were the purple coloured heather covered moors, the undulating nature of the course passing by close to Bolton Abbey and the long downhill finish to the little riverside grass track area. The walk course was tough, but probably not as tough as the fell race which was the major attraction of the meeting.
SEPTEMBER On 6th September at the AGM of the Northern Area Race Walking Association held in Sheffield, Joe Lambert was confirmed as the Association’s President.
Bill Jackson, Zena Smith, Harold Wilcox, and Joe Lambert - the club’s organisers and officials
Two Club races to start and finish the month and two opens hundreds of miles apart sandwiched between them, was the September racing calendar and 23 members put in appearances.
33rd London to Brighton – 13th September. Don Thompson 7.49.22 notched up his fourth consecutive win, thus equalling the sequence 1934-37 by Harold Whitlock. ‘Big Ben’s’ 6 am chimes sent ninety walkers on their way among them Dick Smith 31st/9.57.11, Tom Dunn 52nd/10.32.50, Sid Smith 58th/10.51.22 and Bill Cowley 65th/11.24.38. They finished 7th team.
Meanwhile . . . . on the same day the club turned out 11 walkers at the
Bradford Telegraph & Argus33rd “Dick Hudsons” Open 8 miles – 13th September
Organised by the Yorkshire Walking Club, the event started in Bradford Town Centre and finished at the Dick Hudson’s Public House on the edge of Ilkley Moor. The distance is over 8 miles starting with a steady climb out of Bradford and over the last two miles of accent there are stretches of road so steep, that race walking up them is impossible. Other features were the changing facilities at the pub. There were three dolly-tubs in the old inn stables, so the early finishers got the best bath and everybody connected with the event enjoyed a free sit down tea.
Albert Johnson continued to be almost unbeatable in the north winning in 69.04 ahead of club-mates Lol Allen 71.14 and Frank Winter 72.25. In the team race LWC once again couldn’t match Sheffield UH, finishing second, but Sam Shoebottom picked up the Veteran’s handicap prize.
7th Ron Wallwork 74.37 8th Mike Jeffreys 75.07 10th Jack Sankey 77.35 11th Ronnie Marsden 77.36 Johnny Grocott 81.40 Charlie Norton 84.00 Frank O’Neill 86.36 Sam Shoebottom 90.59 Dave Ellison 93.32 Matt Clarke 108.03 Jack Tempest 111.57
OCTOBER Twenty-four members supported three Club fixtures, two Opens and a National Junior (by age) championship.
First up was on 4th October – Leicester Open 7 miles Newly crowned European champions Stan Vickers finished in front of the other 85 competitors in 49.36. Ken Matthews 2nd/50.05 and Albert Johnson 3rd/ 53.18. Ron Wallwork 15th 56.41, Jack Sankey 21st/57.05, Johnny Grocott 49th/62.49, young Fred Pearce 50th/62.49 and his dad 76th/70.10 carried the club colours in this one. Another Claribell excursion with a refreshment stop at Ashbourne.
11th October The following week Ken Harding (Royal Sutton) cruised home in an inter-club race at Sutton Macclesfield with Johnny Grocott 89.55 and Chris Bolton 92.47 in his wake. Bob Turnbull, Frank O’Neill and Jack Tempest took the three handicap prizes, whilst at Prestonanother week later in a 6 mile handicap, Sam Shoebottom was the race winner, but Joe Barraclough the quickest walker.
18th October Two events on this day. At Preston a dozen turned out for a 6 miles handicap which was won by Sam Shoebottom off 15.00 from Jack Tempest off 26.30 and Dave Ellison off 12.30. The fastest actual was Joe Barraclough off scratch with 52.12.
and at Luton, Bedfordshire
RWA National Junior 5 miles championship – October 18th
Extract from thoughts I expressed at Fred Pearce’s funeral
I have vivid recollections of staying overnight at Fred’s (Pearce) home, which I think was in Higher Openshaw on 17th October that year, because of an early start to a race the following day. His mother and dad ensured that we had a good breakfast before we set off from their house to meet up with fellow teenagers Charlie Norton, Chris Bolton, Bob Towell and chaperone Sam Morgan at Manchester Central station to catch the 07.20 to London. Thanks to Lancashire Walking Club because for the first time ever, they were sending a team to an RWA national junior five miles championship being staged that year at Luton from the Vauxhall Motors Sports Club.
In those days London was a long way off; steam trains hadn’t been totally replaced by diesel and no one had heard of a motorway, let alone been on one, so it was quite an adventure. I can’t remember much about the journey but do recall that as we reconnoitred the three-lap course, we all clued up about one of the turns because it was by a newsagent’s which had a huge spread of ‘girlie’ magazines in the window, which took us boys from the dark satanic mills a bit by surprise.
A field of 52 comprising 9 teams made for furious racing and with lungs bursting and shins screaming for relief, there was no time for ogling at shop windows. The journey was not in vain; we returned home with bronze team medals behind Belgrave H and Steyning AC. The scorers were me 4th/39.42, Charlie Norton 16th/42.41 and Fred 17th/43.19.
25th October – Once again club walkers could be found at two venues hundreds of miles apart.
Terry Hardie 41.44, Ronnie Marsden 42.10 and Ron Wallwork were the first three home in a Club race over 5.25 miles at Urmston. The race was organised from Urmston Baths by Joe Lambert and his family who lived in Urmston. I can’t remember much of the race, but I do recall the buzz of excitement and pride as Charlie, Fred and I produced and allowed our medals (possibly the first ever national team medals won by the club) to be passed around.
Stan Vickers winning the1958 European 20 kilometres
18th Highgate Open 7 – Stan Vickers and Ken Matthews quickly separated themselves from the other 229 walkers in this London 7 classic and over a far from easy course only seven seconds separated them at the finish and it was the Midlander who triumphed in 49.09. A dozen walkers didn’t make the finish line, but two; Tom Daly135th/65.28 and Vic Murray 146th/66.15 did.
NOVEMBER (unable to find full results for last two months of the year)
Activity consisted ofthree club races and a visit from 1936 Olympic champion Harold Whitlock in his capacity of National Coach and I was among the 30 that attended his coaching sessions.
Jim Hackwood reported in the RWR
The coaching course at Manchester and Sheffield over the weekend of 8th/9th November, arranged by the NARWA in conjunction with National Coach Harold Whitlock proved most successful. Tom Misson accompanied Harold Whitlock as demonstrator and the efforts were highly appreciated by all who attended at both venues.Talks, demonstrations and a practical course on circuit training were part of the proceedings and all proved most interesting although a number of walkers were quite fatigued at the end of the sessions.
Jack Tempest finishes in front of his adoring fans
He reported too that Jack Tempest gave a talk on race walking on the northern radio network on 24th November.
DECEMBER Only one LWC race result in December and that was on the 6th at Frank O’Neill’s house at Swinton. It was a 10 miles handicap which Matt Clarke won off 42.20 in 71.22. Second was Jack Sankey 5.00/74.10, third Bob Turnbull 20/74.47. Scratch result was Ron Wallwork 78.24, Jack Sankey 79.10 and Ted Watkins 89.30.
Many thanks to Ron for his endeavours. Now 1959 looms!
Julian Hopkins 83 hangs on
Guy Goodair, Mal Tolley w.Ron
Jake Warhurst leads Tony Taylor with Mick Holmes hidden
Mick Holmes leads Tony taylor
Lancashire Walking Club : Health The First Wealth 