Many thanks to Tony for the third in our series of reminiscences.
Tony, safe as houses, in the 2019 AGM 5k
What prompted you to take up race walking? When and where was your first race?
I have been a runner since 1983, my running “style” has always been a marathon shuffle with a short stride never getting that far off the ground. Running clubmates would make jokes that I was “lifting” as I ran along.
When I went up to Cambridge in 1995 I met my future wife Shelley, who is also a runner. Shelley was a good masters middle distance track runner for her age group, good enough to win age group medals in national championships. I would accompany her to masters championships where I saw racewalking. Shelley’s middle distance events were too short for me as a marathon runner.
In 2001 there was an open track and field meeting in Bury St. Edmunds which included a 1000m race walk, organised by Mick Graham (coach of Callum Wilkinson). Shelley ran 800m and I did 7.37 for 1000m off hardly any training. For many years I had a 1000m pb at a slower pace than my 50km pb, until I walked 5.32 for 1000m in 2018.
What’s your favourite race and why?
When I turned 40 in 2003 I was then old enough to compete with Shelley in masters competitions. I then started to do more racewalking in training to go with my running, as I was still living in Cambridge I would go down to London every month to do the Enfield League (organised by our friend Ron Wallwork). I learned a lot about racewalking at Enfield, I would go every month until I moved back home to Cheshire in 2005. I still miss the Enfield League, I was last there for the Friendship Walk during the London 2017 World Championships.
Which performance has given you the greatest satisfaction?
In 2011, even though I was living in Germany, I returned home to take part in the test event for the London 2012 Olympics. I did 20km, mostly in pouring rain, up and down The Mall past Buckingham Palace. I was used to walking on quiet country lanes or round parks, walking in the centre of London was somewhat surreal. I set my lifetime pb of 2h03.11, just about avoiding the cut off time of 1h50 at 18km.
Attached photo shows me on The Mall (number 24) with Cath Duhig (58) and Colin Vesty (27).
1 year later I was back on the Olympic course as a spectator.
I hope you’re all surviving the current situation, managing to stay well, and maintain a degree of fitness.I’m contacting everyone i have e-mail addresses for regarding the 5K masters road walk. As some of you may have seen on their website the Horwich festival of racing has been cancelled; it will hopefully take place next year 2021.
There were a couple of options available; finding an alternative venue, or a new date. An alternative venue could still leave us having to cancel at short notice; and a lot of the people we need to contact regarding permissions etc. are not currently working. Unfortunately every event cancelled over the last few months is looking for a new date; it will be impossible to avoid a clash, and officials will be over worked when athletics does start up again.
Horwich is a particularly magical event which will be impossible to recreate elsewhere; the decision has therefore been made to cancel the 5K road walk this year; but we hope to return as part of the Horwich festival on Sunday 20th June 2021.There are a few people who always enter by post, that I don’t have e-mail addresses for, so if you see friends please spread the word.
What prompted you to take up race walking? When and where was your first race?
I was a member of Wakefield Harriers and we’d heard all about the famous Star Walk in Sheffield held every year on Whit Tuesday. Now although there were other races over Whitsun there were no local running races on the Tuesday so four of us decided to enter. The Star Walk was for ‘novices’ (those who hadn’t won a prize at race walking) although Sheffield United Harriers ‘groomed’ likely winners by telling potential winners to make sure they didn’t get into SUH’s medal or prize winning teams in the months before the race. The race was 11.5 miles long which was a long way for novices but luckily for us we’d done lots of long running races including marathons so the distance didn’t bother us. There were big crowds at the start and we were well back but gradually started catching the early leaders once we’d got past Hillsborough and climbing up Halifax Road.
Start of the 1958 Star Walk
Our lack of real race walking technique saw us losing ground on the descents and gaining on the climbs. Eventually John Hampshire and myself found ourselves in equal 4th spot approaching the finish at Corporation Street Baths – the officials at the end were trying to seperate us (think they only had 4 prizes ready) but we held hands and went over the line together for 4th place the race being won by Derek Slinn. John and I both got a prize at the lunch afterwards. Didn’t walk again until Northern Junior in 1961. [Editor’s note – Guy was second in the said race to Mick Grayson (Sheffield UH) with Ivor Percival of our club third, Fred Pearce was sixth.]
As Guy puts it, the certificate uses his Sunday name.
What’s your favourite race and why?
Manchester to Blackpool – don’t really know why but as far as I was concerned once I’d got to Preston docks I’d ‘cracked it’ even though there was still 20 miles or so to go.
A knackered Guy, head leaning even more than ever to his left, finishing first in 1964, outside the Town Hall, the throng of enthusiastic female spectators kept back by the local constabulary.
Very proud of my race record here – 12 races between 1961 and 1974 – 6th on my first attempt and 6th on the last race otherwise never out of the first three (3 x 1st, 5 x 2nd and 2 x 3rd)
If you haven’t already seen these, follow the links below for an enthralling insight into Guy’s exploits in our club’s Blue Riband event, the Manchester-Blackpool, the like of which will never be seen again.
Which performance has given you the greatest satisfaction?
Winning Bradford Walk in 1964 – felt really strong all the way round.
[Another Editor’s note – in truth I was deeply disappointed to find that Guy did not say that his finest hour was out sprinting yours truly in the Northern 2 miles championships on a loose cinder track in Bolton, July 27, 1968. Result: 1.Phil Bannan [Isle of Man] 14:16.8 2. Guy Goodair [Wakefield] 14:24.0 3. Tony Taylor [LWC] 14:.24.0. I still don’t know how they separated us!]
It’s fitting that Dave Evans, our indefatigible Chair, should be the first to share his memories in what we hope will be a series of revelations in the coming weeks, even months. Dave has been at the heart of holding the club together following the tragic loss of the much loved Fred Pearce.
Dave Evans finding time to shelter Tony Malone from the storm, whilst Eric Horwill has come as ever well-prepared
Like many of my club colleagues I came into race walking from another branch of Athletics , namely Track and Field. I joined the Civil Service in 1966 and quickly became involved with my department’s Athletic club. When I eventually became Secretary of the club in 1979 I was both a competitive athlete and team selector. This role normally involved filling in when “vacancies” appeared in teams for the Civil Service championships. In the early 1990’s I had picked a squad for our race walking team from amongst our regular contingent only to find a shortage of bodies at the last minute.
I decided that being a strong runner I would fill the gap thinking the 7 mile race would be “easy” . My pride and confidence took a large knock when I finished the race almost last ! How could I, a sub 31 minute 10k performer, be beaten by around 20 walkers who between them , running in a relay team of six, would probably not have completed 10k before me. I came down to earth with a large bang and deservedly so.
My admiration for walkers began on that day and is still with me now even though my walking days are behind me. After realising that technique is the key aspect of the event I , along with Pat, decided to hunt down a club where we could learn and develop our “poor” walking style into something more “professional”. The Lancashire Walking club seemed to fit the bill and before too long we were heel toeing with the leading aspirants of the time. Dick Maxwell was the club administrator with Ronnie Marsden supported as judges by Albert Rigby and Derek, the pieman !
Being a new boy I did not understand the strategy employed by the club savants. You are lulled into a sense of security and given a lot of encouragement by the older walkers not realising that all of this was to prepare you for the Manchester to Blackpool ! I’ve done 4 or 5 including one around Stanley Park in Blackpool and reflect on these with some pride and pain.
Dave hits the Lytham promenade – not far to go! Sadly he missed the final Saturday postal collection.
Having managed to cope with my first venture into long distance walking it was inevitable that I would be tempted to join the illustrious list of Lancashire Walking club centurions. I was finally convinced I should give it a go after John Payn became the oldest ever debutante at 67. In 2003 I completed my one and only 100 in a steady 23 hours 40 mins and as they say that’s history.
Since my entry into the world of race walking I have been surprised by the times I’ve done given I am not very flexible . A sub 50 for 10k and a 5k time just under 24. Fred Pearce acted as a mentor in the latter years of my racing career but I finally concluded that walking with a questionable technique was not for me so helping him with the Admin side became my main function. My running is still my main activity and despite advancing years ran 43 16 for 10k when I was 69 and clocked a 21 09 for the parkrun shortly after reaching 70.
I really appreciate the camaraderie in our club and look forward to meeting up each time even if just to hear more of Sailash’s ideas about racing on the M6 or around the coast of Great Britain. A latter day Leonardo da Vinci ! Despite our ages the sense of achievement and brotherhood keeps us together and we all hold dear the club motto of Health the First Wealth. Fond memories of Fred, Dave Crompton and Dick Maxwell, three of our heroes.
DAVE EVANS
Thanks to Dave for setting us off down Memory Lane. We’ve already got more waiting in the wings so please don’t be shy about coming forward with your memories.
As I write the Covid-19 crisis shows no signs of abating, a scenario within which sport is revealed as hardly a matter of life or death.
Therefore it will come as no surprise to hear that we must postpone both the May and June fixtures, namely the Dave Crompton Memorial 7 miles on May 9 and the Dick and Zena Smith 10/5k on June 8. The British Masters 5k on June 21 is also in jeopardy. In truth further postponements are likely. Indeed the Race Walking Association fixture list is beset by cancellations through to August.
The start of the British Masters 5k 2019. Unlikely to held this year.
You will have noticed that we are talking about postponements rather than cancellations in terms of our club events. For the time being we wish to retain some room for manouevre in terms of what might be a revised late Summer/Autumn/Winter fixture list. Two considerations come to mind.
Dave and Fred in their element. Still sorely missed.
We feel there will be much support for ensuring that new dates are found for the Dave Crompton Memorial Trophy and the Fred Pearce Relay. Sadly we suspect the latter will fall foul of the lock down
So too we think we should explore fitting as many races as practical into a revised schedule as soon as we get the green light. In this way we can renew our face-to-face friendships and rekindle our collective club spirit.
Interestingly, even provocatively, Greg Smith draws our attention to the advice of Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Jenny Harries, who suggests:
“I might, actually though, put a more optimistic view as well, which is if people are not going out to work, and, often, that creates quite a stress in terms of travel time, they have more free time to themselves.
And it might be the best opportunity the whole country has to say I’m going to use my one exercise session every day to ensure by the time this is over I am super fit and so is my family.
This is a challenge. On this basis we should all be turning up to the next race in the time-honoured phrase, ‘fit as a butcher’s dog!’ Personal bests all round!
This said, a few of our stalwarts are in the government’s vulnerable group and perhaps in receipt of a letter instructing them to stay in the house for three months. Chris Bolton, 81 years young with COPD is in this category and sends this warning from Glossop after putting his head out of doors. Evidently taking the bins out can be construed as an offence! Fair enough we’ve made that up!
Chris ‘I was only putting bins out’ Bolton heading towards Blackpool in 1962
Joking aside and remembering the club motto, let’s all stay safe and healthy in the coming months.
In this context, given we’re not going to see one another for a goodly time, we can perhaps use this web site to keep people in touch and whet our appetite for a return to the roads. Thus we are encouraging you to respond to one or all of the following prompts or indeed any additional questions that strike you. It would be brilliant if you’ve any photos to accompany your anecdotes.
What prompted you to take up race walking? When and where was your first race?
What’s your favourite race and why?
Which performance has given you the greatest satisfaction?
A couple of people have already agreed to contribute and to give you further inspiration here are a couple of stories from Maurice Ireland we posted a few years ago. By the way Maurice is recovering slowly from his stroke and is managing to walk slowly 2-3 miles a day. We look forward to seeing him when we recommence our activities.
My membership of the club goes back to about 1960 and I have many photographs etc. so if I can help them please let me know. My initial involvement with the sport and LWC is from 1954; at that time we lived on Bolton Road, Pendlebury and my father had regaled me with stories of his involvement with the Club and how he competed in such races as the Manchester to Blackpool in the late 1920s; unfortunately he was diagnosed with silicosis when he was 33 years of age which brought an end to his athletic career. However, on a particular night in 1954 I was “dragged” from my bed by my most excited father who had spotted race walkers going past our shop and found that the Manchester to Blackpool and back (100 miles) race was in progress. He had set up a feed station and I was directed to assist by running to meet approaching walkers, determine their “needs”, run back then deliver as he prepared them, this continued for some hours. The weather was atrocious, it rained continuously and needless to say it did not attract me to the sport but, I did admire the fortitude and competitive spirit along with the camaraderie of the many people I met throughout the night. Also, from the records I think you will find that Joe Lambert qualified as a centurion in this event. As far as I was concerned, this was my first and last involvement with the “daft beggars” who wished to inflict such agonies on themselves.
Maurice winning 1978 NW GPO 15k in 74:12
However, and as if predestined, my fate was sealed; in 1960 whilst returning from an engineering training course (old GPO) a person by the name of Chris Bolton, travelling in the same car, was prattling on about how he had raced in the Manchester to Blackpool event. I joined the conversation by stating that my father had also done that event and on how I had assisted in the “100”; I think Chris was a little taken aback by finding that I was aware of the sport and such events. Shortly after this meeting Chris and me were sent to work in the same telecoms centre and I frequently heard stories about his recent races; this gave me the opportunity to pull his leg about race walking and how anybody could walk at the speed of 6 miles in an hour. However, and as you would expect, Chris planned his revenge, one particular day he set me up in front of our colleagues to the point where he said that I could not walk 6 miles in the hour as I was boasting, obviously I laughed at him until he said that he had entered me on the next Saturday afternoon to compete at Worsley with LWC; I was trapped. Needless to say I had to turn out, but I am very proud of the fact that I did manage to beat the hour (by 30 seconds) and was awarded the 6 Miles in the Hour badge from the RWA; this was the start of my race walking career and thanks to Chris, many, many hours of superb sports involvement.
Here’s hoping that we can share more fascinating insights of this kind across the coming months.
STOP PRESS TWO – Given the following advice from England Athletics we have called off the April 11 Sutton race, Watch this space for updates and some historical pieces to tickle your palate,
England Athletics advises that all face-to-face activity such as club training sessions, events, competitions, club committee and face-to-face meetings, athlete camps, running groups and social events should be suspended until at least the end of April.
STOP PRESS – As of Monday, March 16 we have not cancelled the April 11 Macclesfield Shield 10 miles at Sutton. We are the monitoring the fast-moving situation, although one wit has suggested that most of us, being elderly and allegedly vulnerable, are likely to be confined to barracks and unable to attend! It’s a bit rich when politicians, who have spent decades undermining public services and extolling the private sector, discover suddenly that the market and the common good are utterly at odds. In the present crisis, who do we turn to? Nurses and doctors or entrepreneurs? Enough of my ranting, take care of both yourself and others. Watch this space for more info.
Sadly the St Peters Club, which has been our much-loved home in Chorley is to close. However, Eric Crompton believes that the church will offer us the church hall on Harpers Lane as an alternative venue, for which we are most grateful. Hence this last group photo is one for the history books.
Dave Evans reports:
The first race at Chorley in 2020 was a quiet affair with 9 walkers toeing the starting line facing probably one of the hilliest courses in the UK. The weather was cool and breezy with perhaps the threat of rain which did not materialise. With the absence of the fastest club walkers the likely winner of the scratch race was anyone’s guess and this made the race more enjoyable.
Glyn leads the field into the infamous climb at the beginning of the circuit
As the field embarked on the regular 2.4 mile circuit after one mile the top seven exponents were less than 35 seconds apart and then they began the long uphill section which separates the great from the good. Glyn Jones of Coventry Godiva , a very regular visitor, endeavoured to put some distance between himself and his pursuers and managed , save for new Lancashire WC member, Martin Payne, a Centurion in 2015, who shadowed to the end of lap 1 after which he stretched a 2 second deficit to a 45 second lead at the end of lap 2.
Martin rock solid, beginning to take control
As the walkers passed the 10k , both Glyn and Martin were over 3 minutes in advance of the rest of the field with Joe Hardy and Ian Hilditch leading that trailing group. At the end it was youth over experience as Martin confirmed his superiority with a 4 minute lead over Glyn who was himself nearly three minutes ahead of Ian Hilditch and Joe. Pat Evans and Andrea Lennon walked very well and although walking the lesser distance (2 laps instead of 3) still did very acceptable times.
A determined Sailash making an early bid to drop Joe and Ian
Full results:-
15k 1. Martin Payne 100 mins 48 2. Glyn Jones 104 mins 52 3. Ian Hilditch 107 mins 19 4. Joe Hardy 108 mins 34 5. Phil McCullagh 112 mins 28 6. Sailash Shah 113 mins 47 7. Roy Gunnett 117 mins 00
Is that a smile or pain on Pat’s face?
10.9k 1. Pat Evans 81 mins 37 2. Andrea Lennon 96 mins 13
Phil beginning to put Roy under pressure
As ever thanks to Greg Smith for the excellent photos.
Roy Gunnett’s report and detailed spreadsheet to follow.
SAM SHOEBOTTOM TROPHY 10k held at SIMISTER, February 8, 2020 – RWA Permit 20013 – 1
Dave Evans reports:
The first Lancashire WC event of the year was a tremendous boost to our hopes of starting the year on a high point. Not only did we see our President in Exile, Tony Taylor, but our great supporters and friends from the Midlands and Yorkshire, Eric Horwill, Glyn Jones and Martin Fisher.
Dave Evans and Eric Horwill sort things out
The weather was cool but not too windy despite the impending storm coming from the Atlantic. 13 aspirants toed the starting line to race the 10k and 3 walked the shorter 5k distance. Tony Taylor, one of three of the same title, led the field to the park turnaround marshalled by Glyn Jones and as the faster walkers arrived at the 5k point the watch was barely over 27 minutes as Tony T recorded a swift 27 10 followed by Adrian Edwards in 29 mins 46, Martin Fisher 29 48 and Tony Malone 29 51. Tony Bell and new club member Martin Payne passed through in a good 32 mins 36 and 33 mins respectively with the remaining seven 10k exponents not too far in arrears. The 5k performers were in the mix at halfway with Greg Smith posting a relaxed 35 18 followed by Pat Evans in 35 20 and Irene Pike 40 02. Irene has spent more than 12 months recovering from a foot problem which although not totally cured has healed enough to allow her to heel and toe again. Welcome back.
Tony Bell pleased to finish!
Tony Taylor continued to extend his lead on the final stage of the race and recorded a tremendous time of 54 42. He was well clear of Adrian (59 44), Martin (60 05)and Tony Malone (60 15). Despite the potentially inclement weather everyone walked well and the handicapper has some material to work with for the next event to be held at Chorley on March 7th.
Andrea Lennon won the handicap by 4 seconds and has waited 17 years to repeat her earlier win. Amongst the spectators was former GB International Chris Harvey who was one of Tony Taylor’s adversaries in the 1970’s. Chris holds the fastest ever 20k time by a Lancashire WC member, clocking an excellent 88:26 over 30 years ago at the 1979 World Cup in Eschborn. Tony is planning to do an interview with Chris about his career in the near future.
Glyn Jones returning from imposing his authority at the Heaton Park turn. Much appreciated.
Many thanks must be given to Eric Horwill for doing the timekeeping and Glyn Jones for foregoing his race to marshal for us. True examples of camaraderie and sportsmanship. Thank you gentlemen.
Roy Gunnett adds:
There was an excellent turnout of 16 walkers for the first club race of the year. The walkers had to cope with cold and windy conditions on the two lap ‘out and back’ course. Thankfully the torrential rain of the preceding few days had abated.
Soon after the start of the race the field sorted itself out into a number of small groups. Out in front, on his own, was Tony Taylor, who put in an impressive performance to come home the clear winner by nearly five minutes. His time of 54 minutes 42 seconds ranks highly in his age group.
There was a tight finish behind with three walkers, namely Adrian Edwards, Martin Fisher and Tony Malone close together. Besides trying to beat one another, all three were vying for a sub-60 minute performance. Adrian achieved this with a 59 minutes 41 second clocking, whilst Martin and Tony were only a few seconds adrift.
John Crahan’s blistering finish had the crowd on its feet!
Guest Walker Martin Payne put in a solid performance in his first LWC club race.
Encouraging debut indeed from Martin Payne
Andrea Lennon’s sterling effort resulted in her winning the handicap and thus the Sam Shoebottom Trophy.
10k
Information in the bracket indicates h’cap allowance; h’cap time; h’cap position; h’cap points and age-graded performance.
I. Tony Taylor M70 LWC 54: 42 (0:00; 54: 42; 2; 24; 95.29%)
Here’s hoping you can take advantage of this great initiative from Adrian Edwards.
He advises:
We’re meeting up at 6:30 until about 8 pm,on the indoor track at Sportcity in Manchester (next door to the Etihad stadium) on Friday 28th February. It’ll take a few minutes to register, if you’ve not been before, and costs £3 or £4. On the tram it’s the Etihad campus stop. By car follow the Etihad signs and if City aren’t playing there’s loads of car parking. Or take the 216 bus from Piccadilly Gardens. It’s the building next to the Etihad, near the club store, and tram stop.
We’ll be working on technical drills, then trying to put that into practice (work as hard as you want/feel able), and using video analysis.
Colin Young’s reputation and influence crossed all borders, regional, national and international. Certainly he was held in great affection by all those members of Lancashire Walking Club, who knew him and were motivated by him. If Colin happened to be a spectator few walkers passed him by without a insightful word of advice or stirring encouragement. One great mystery, given his long-distance exploits, is why he never competed in our club’s classic Manchester-Blackpool? However, thanks to Steve Uttley and John Cannell, the mystery is rendered less than mysterious. It is not the case. Colin did in fact compete in the 1968 edition of the Blackpool. I was a bit thrown as across the 1960s I prided myself on supporting the race, sponge and bucket in hand. Ironically, according to my training diary, I was elsewhere on the day,. Find below the first 10 in the 1968 race – a veritable who’s who of long distance exponents of the time.
MANCHESTER – BLACKPOOL, JUNE 29, 1968
Pat Duncan [Belgrave Harriers] 7:57;01
Guy Goodair [Wakefield Harriers] 8:04:39
George Barrass [Wakefield Harriers] 8:14:52
Derek Harding [Royal Sutton Coldfield AC] 8:16:30
Karl Abolins [Royal Sutton Coldfield] 8:19:41
Ray Manning [Wakefield Harriers] 8:35:15
Roy Thorpe [Wakefield Harriers] 8:35:15
COLIN YOUNG [Essex Beagles] 8:37:07
John Dowling [Sheffield United AC] 8:48:08
Albert Johnson [Sheffield United AC] 8:48;08
Guy Goodair informs us : Colin [203] in full flow in National 20 miles at Sheffield (others in pic are Ken Mason, John Moullin, Dickie Green, Bob Farley, me and John Eddershaw
Len Ruddock – Allez Jung! – My tribute to Colin Young.
I joined Ilford A.C. in 1969 as an aspiring mile runner and soon switched to race walking due to the enthusiasm and encouragement of this particular select band of athletes in the club and this opened up the wider vibrant world of Race Walking. I didn’t know Colin in these early days as my main competition was in the Youth and Junior ranks but I always enjoyed the open races for all-comers and that’s where I would’ve seen Colin in action. I became aware of his reputation and incredible distance credentials through the pages of, Athletics Weekly’ and ‘The Essex Walker’ and listening to others in the sport. Competing abroad was to me something that others did but here was Colin not only doing so but also winning, amongst others, 100km and 24 hour races. Then came the staggering feats of the Strasbourg to Paris 512km (or thereabouts) race. In 1971, my club-mate, coach and mentor, Roger Mills organised a trip to Mantes in Normandy. En-route, we were able to catch the early stages of the Rouen 28 Hours with Colin at the head of the bunch, which included Brighton & Hove’s Dave Boxall and our club-mate, Steve King. That first racing trip to France for me revealed the greater enthusiastic support that there is in their sporting culture. The appreciation that ‘Les Marcheurs’ were athletes above all. It was the first time that I heard the shout, “Allez Jung!” In 1972, I was honoured to be invited to join the support team for Colin for the Strasbourg-Paris. My co-‘soigneurs’, Reg Wells and team-mate, Tony Perkins had been with Colin for the previous year’s event when he finished a close 3rd to the great Josy Simon of Luxembourg. It had come with a physical cost in the blazing heat but had enhanced his reputation as a gutsy competitor particularly in France which I was about to discover in ’72. It was an amazing week and the 3 1/2 days of the race, for this 19 year old left an indelible impression. ‘Fandom’ is a modern definition of what I experienced. As the race progressed, we were joined by increasing numbers who just wanted to be part of Colin’s entourage, even during those long nights. Colin liked his jazz music and was a great cycling fan which rubbed off on me and those intricacies of, ‘Le Tour’ was explained. He had the knack of ‘reading the runes.’ Give him a race result and even better with time-splits, he would paint a verbal picture of the event putting flesh onto the bones. He was an avid reader, so maybe from N.U.T.S. colleagues and possibly L’Equipe and La Gazzetta dello Sport provided the leads. With this information, he would always be popping up with some interesting result or tracking the form of certain athletes or cyclist. I remember that he picked out the rise of a certain Said Aouita way before he became a great middle distance champion. An inspirational motivator was Colin. On a British Race Walkers’ Club weekend, he had an ongoing audience by reading snippets during the weekend from Ron Hill’s memoir about the day of his Olympic marathon. To train with Colin was great. He knew how to push you and when to encourage. Occasionally, on those tiring longer distance sessions, his ‘race commentary’ would run like, ‘The lights of the Olympic stadium are on…only a few kilometres to go…as he looks behind, ‘…’ can see Pamich/Hohne/Golubnichy (take your pick) trying to close the gap’….etc,etc…… Colin was a long-term contributor to the well respected, ‘Athletics Weekly’ and this period was of course, well before the digital age. He was always dedicated in getting his reports in by the copy deadline. This often resulted in late Sunday trips to central London to catch the last post. During his era, I believe Race Walking owed a debt of gratitude to his journalistic skills which raised RW’s profile and respect from amongst the wider athletic community. Apart from once beating Roger Mills in a game of squash, my next best feat of my modest sporting career, was passing Colin at 43km in the 1975 National 50Km Champs., which we both acknowledged with a nod. He often would refer to Paul Nihill as, ‘The Guv’nor’ but to me this slight man with a big heart was often entitled to be called, ‘The Master.’
Colin in a long-distance track race. Where? When?
Chris Maddock – RIP Colin Young, British ultra-distance walks legend 1935-2019. Utmost respect for this inspirational man. Grabbing me by the shoulders as was his want whenever we met, if he talked, I listened. Believe it was at the 2012 Olympic luncheon when, in his opinion he said I ranked 5th all-time of British race walkers; Paul Nihill was his No 1. I nodded an appreciative smile; what more could I do? He also asked me to guess what he considered was my best race. After a few wrong attempts, he said, “New York Marathon 1989″…mostly because of the great walkers I beat that day. Colin had an encyclopedic knowledge for sports names. Another fond memory was his words during and after the 1983 World Cup 50kms. During the race his tough shouting inspired me to finish 9th with a new GB record of 4.02.37. Afterwards he said I should’ve gone sub 4. He was right of course. RIP Colin. Proud to have been a friend.
Rob Lambie – RIP Colin Young . I was first introduced to Colin on my early visits to England from Guernsey when racing in the late 1970s . He told me about my fellow Guernsey walkers that had made a name for themselves in England, even talking about other island athletes from other disciplines. I was fortunate, amongst others, to be in his company at Mezidon in 1999 for the World race walking event. I took away many stories of his long distance exploits. One meal time he started talking about the weekends races and came out with recent times from around the world, scribbled on bits of paper, which in those days would have been harder to find than now with the internet. He confidently predicted a 50 Kms win for Korepanov. He was right. Walking around the course watching , he seemed to draw the attention of many, young and old and from various countries, talking with them like long lost friends and sometimes in their language. I can picture Colin now, back in the 70s early 80 at National Championships, training , going in reverse direction , shouting encouragement to all.
Steve Uttley -Very sad news. I lived in Ilford, less than a mile from Colin from 1980 for around 25 years and trained with Colin a couple of times a week, including many 2 hour plus Sunday spins. I was just about to call him before Christmas when I heard the news. I shall miss him as will many others I’m sure. His enthusiasm was contagious and his knowledge second to none.
Francisco Reis – The loss of Colin is very sad and painful but the loss of a friend like Colin is even harder. Colin was a great supporter of myself since I arrived in this country in 1984. He gave me the motivation to restart racing again as a master athlete. Every time when we met Colin always had to whisper in my ear ( race harder and harder ). I will never forget the great man and great athlete Colin Young. Thanks for everything, rest in peace,
Alan Buchanan – Colin was Race Walking in England . He knew everyone when our event was at its most popular and was much respected as an ultra distance walker and scribe whose knowledge was second to none. RIP
Oliver Caviglioli – I remember, as a youngster, going to Colin’s house for a training session followed by tea. The training session was fun as I witnessed Colin slalom, race walking style, through the evening commuters as they left the local tube stations. He was also so very encouraging. Although my race walking career only lasted my teenage years, I retained a lasting sense of the values of Colin and fellow Beagle—my coach—Phil Everard. Their integrity and sense of fairness have remained with me ever since. Furthermore, Colin’s undiminished enthusiasm has inspired me throughout my own non-athletics career. I should mention another aspect some of you might not know about Colin. For a short while, he worked with Phil Everard, the manager, of an Adult Training Centre for people with learning difficulties. At a time when such people were excluded pretty much from society, those who worked in this field were more caring than most. I witnessed Colin relating to all in the same respectful and friendly fashion.
John ‘Paddy’ Dowling – Colin was a trail blazer he was more continental than the French, and they loved him, and I did. May his God hold him in the hollow of His Hand. Colin and Amos Seddon helped me out in the 1970 Strasbourg/Paris, when my feet were lacerated. Colin finished a gutsy third, tho I could see him fading.
Guy Goodair – Sad News – First got to know Colin after I was 2nd to him on the inaugural IOM TT Walk. Then a memorable trip in 1968 with Colin, Pat Duncan (all 6’ 7” of him) my wife Judith and I – we flew to Zurich, hired a Fiat 500 and drove to Prague, for the Prague to Podebrady 50km race. We spent hours at the border crossing whilst the car was searched (both ways in fact, in case we were trying to smuggle someone in or out – fat chance in that car) We arrived in Prague hours after our anticipated time to find Ivo Domansky patiently waiting for us, and it was on this trip Colin first met Eva, his future wife. We got out of Czechoslovakia just days before the Russian tanks came into Prague to overthrow Dubcek’s Spring Uprising. Colin’s knowledge of the sport was phenomenal and he knew most people’s PBs He always greeted me with ‘4hr 30min 57sec – only 19secs behind the great Harold’ (A reference to my 50km PB as against Olympic champion Harold Whitlock’s.
Geoff Hunwicks – He had ‘a hand’ in me getting a junior international against France in a full track ‘n field meet in 1969!
John Paddick – Race Walker Colin Young – An incredible individual and top man!
Dougie Corkill – Just to echo everyone’s warm words. Very sad. Eagerly awaiting AW in the post, then straight to Colin Young’s Walking Commentary. Superb. Was with Colin In Mezidon for World Cup. And up till about 5 years ago we had a monthly chat on the phone. Fabulous – made me feel very Special. l sent him a Christmas card this year with one of my BORING comments. I will never forget Colin. Great man and Inspiration.
Martin Young – Colin won the first three Isle of Man TT Open Walks. Adding on my father’s 6 wins (3 double wins), mine was the last Young to be added to the list. Although not related, having the same surname makes you sit up and notice as a kid. Colin was a legend, certainly in my eyes, and I was proud to add the Young name to that trophy back in ’92. RIP.
Graham Jackson – Really sad news. Good friend to our family, my dad, Denis learnt a lot from his advice. RIP Colin.
Emmanuel Tardi – So sad to hear. He was a great walker. I remember that we walked together in European Road Masters championship in 2005 in Portugal. I was 35 … and he was 70! RIP Colin.
Greg Smith – Was sad to hear of Colin Young’s passing. He walked for Essex Beagles, as did Phil Everard, who coached me in the 1960s when I was a member of Basildon AC. In 1968 in the Essex Long Distance Walking Championship (a point-to-point race from Romford to Southend) I rode a bike behind Colin with a bucket and sponge and his drinks and salt tablets. He said I was to act as his “soigneur”, a new word to me. Turned out that Colin was also a cycling fan and followed the Tour de France through the pages of L’Equipe. As someone said in Athletics Weekly, he had this extraordinary knowledge — he was the Professor of Race Walking. About 10 years ago there was a gathering to mark the 500th (and last) Essex Walking League race. I went down to Lea Valley cycle track to do the race. Afterwards I chatted with Colin (it was about 25 years since we’d last met). He looked at me for a moment and said, “You must have been pleased to beat Tony Malone at Horwich last month”. I was staggered that he could call up that detail, especially as he had no idea I would be at Lea Valley that day. And he was right, I have raced against Tony Malone on and off since the 1960s and it was one of the very few times that I managed to beat him!
Dave Evans – Despite the fact that I never knew Colin’s Race Walking background I met him on a train in the London area many years ago after realising he was coaching one of my great running heroes Mel Batty, once world 10 mile record holder. A mild mannered gentlemen whose own performances were unknown to me was great company and now I wish I had known his standing in the race walking community. Another legend but pleased to have made his acquaintance.
Tony Taylor – I remember back in the late 60s crossing fingers that the AW with Colin’s colourful Race Walking column, exuding his love for and knowledge of the sport, would arrive to be devoured on a Friday evening in front of the fire. And then, as I began to travel South for races, I was always overwhelmed by the warmth of his welcome and the encouragement he gave to this young Lancashire lad of the time. Truly one of race walking’s greats.
SEE ALSO:
An excellent tribute to Colin by Tim Erickson is to be found in the December 2019 issue of the Australian ‘Heel and Toe newsletter
Tim includes a fascinating report on the famous 1960 24 Hour Track Walk at Walton-on-Thames, where Colin finished a magnificent second with 131 miles 327 yards to Hughie Neilson’s remarkable world record of 133 miles 121 yards.
If you would like to add any comments to this page, please send them to Tony at tonymtaylor@gmail.com
I must first apologise for the lack of an inspiring New Year’s message. A combination of serious family illness and severe issues with our internet connection have meant a topsy-turvy opening to 2020. And as a committed European citizen living in Greece, yet deeply critical of the European Union, I can but be dismayed by Brexit. Hence I will not be dancing in the streets next Friday, along with Boris Johnson and less than half of a disUnited Kingdom.
Politics aside it’s been also a sad period for British race walking. We’ve lost stalwarts of our sport, Colin Young, Edwin Grocott, Jill Langford and John Creo in the last few weeks. So too Eric and Pam Horwill, the epitome of selfless support to our sport in general and to Lancashire Walking Club itself despite their proud Midlands heritage, are coping with the tragic illness of their eldest daughter, Jennifer. I know that all of us at the club hold them dearly in our thoughts.
All of the above would be among the first to say that life must go on. Thus the first of the New Year’s fixtures took place today at Drighlington today, January 26 and I’m grateful as ever to Trevor McDermot for this prompt report and photos. As this year’s President I am really chuffed that we supported the race and for our efforts won the first trophy of 2020.
Yorkshire RWC Club 10km Road – Drighlington, 26th Jan
Natalie Myers was away sharply from the start and, moving very well in the rain, led the field home by a good margin.
Lancashire WC won the team race from the host club. Thank you all who supported this morning.
1 – Natalie Myers (2DASH) – 55.05
2 – Adrian Edwards (Lancs WC) – 59.42
3 – Dave Walsh (Redhill RR) – 59.54
4 – Colin Scott (Yorks RWC) – 61.01
5 – Tony Malone (Lancs WC) – 61.01
6 – Tony Bell (Lancs WC) – 65.54
7 – Graham Jackson (Northern M) – 66.13
8 – Dennis Jackson (Yorkshire RWC) – 66.14
9 – Neil Armitage (Yorkshire RWC) – 71.07
10 – Phil McCullagh (Lancs WC) – 71.16
11 – Mark Byrne (Redcar RWC) – 76.06
5km – Richard Cole (Yorkshire RWC) 37.40
Adrian leading the way
Team (4 to score)
1 – Lancashire WC – 23 pts
2 – Yorkshire RWC – 33 pts
Phil supporting races far and wide
This was the initial event for a new Northern Race Walking League that will run annually from this year. Next will be the Area 20km Champs at Douglas, IoM, on Feb 22nd (closing date for entries Feb 18th), followed by the Ken Munro Trophy 10 Miles (Scotland v Lancashire v Yorkshire) + 3km races, Guests allowed, at Dalton, North Yorks on 29th March.
A detailed League programme and fixture list will be finalised and circulated in three weeks.
Thanks to Linda McDermot for the photos
Looking forward to the first club race of the season, the Sam Shoebottom 10k at Simister on February 8th. Very much hoping to see you there.
Lancashire Walking Club : Health The First Wealth 