Unfortunately we have no option but to cancel the September 5th One Hour race set to take place at the Bury track. The present English Athletics COVID guidelines rule that races beyond 3,000 metres are not allowed. Whilst we could have tried to make the case for an exception in regard to our club race, including the submission of a COVID action plan, the chances of success were slim. Crucially too the majority of our membership and supporters feel that we should err on the side of caution.

The dialogue that has taken place between our own officers and national representatives, namely Colin Vesty and Glyn Jones, together with informative contributions from Trevor McDermot, will stand us in good stead as we look to a future haunted still by the virus.

Thanks to everyone for their thoughts and apologies to the half-dozen walkers and officials, who indicated they would attend.

In this vacuum we want to encourage your continued involvement in our own Club Virtual Series. As things stand there’s just over a week left within which to submit your 10 kilometres times for the August challenge. Looking ahead to September we are proposing that we drop the distance down to 5 kilometres. In doing so we are exploring ways in which we can incorporate these clockings into running a Virtual Fred Pearce Relay. More information will be forthcoming as we work out a possible format.

In addition those of us, who have been involved in the Virtual League Series organised through Helen Elleker and John Constandinou continue to find it motivating. Indeed it is a feather in our collective cap that we remain the most consistent club team across the twenty ‘races’ held thus far. It’s certainly not too late to take part and bolster our presence. Contact Tony if you’re not on Facebook and want to submit a 2k time. The deadline each week is 6.00 p.m. on the Wednesday. Also see below.

Southend-on-Sea AC Virtual 1 Mile Event

Southend-on-Sea AC normally holds a 1 mile track walk on August Bank
Holiday weekend. This year it has been cancelled but you can still
compete in a virtual race.

You can do two races the Virtual 2km and Southend 1 mile. Complete
the distances between 29th August and 2nd September and submit your
time(s) on the Race Walking Group on Facebook or alternatively email
Helen Elleker ellekerhelen@yahoo.co.uk.

With thanks to the Virtual Race Walking league organisers for their
support.

Tony Perkins