Bringing the site up-to-date – 5k races at Simister and Horwich, May and June

Posted on August 17, 2017 by Tony Taylor

 Fred Pearce 3 x 5k Relay held on 27th May at Simister.

Our Fred, rather informally attired in truth!

Roy Gunnett reports:

It was the 22nd anniversary of this unique and popular event.
The race was held on the usual ‘out & back’ course from Lady Wilton Hall, Simister to Heaton Park. The weather was hot – around 23C and, although rain threatened, it thankfully held off for the race. It was good to welcome four guests from other clubs to this race. The battle for the team prize was closely contested with the lead changing throughout the race. Tony Malone put in a very powerful final leg to secure the team win for himself, Phil McCullagh and Dan Maskall. Adrian Edwards won the scratch race.

1 Adrian Edwards Lancs WC M55 28:00
2 Tony Malone Lancs WC M65 28:43
3 Dave Crompton Lancs WC M50 31:45
4 Greg Smith Lancs WC M60 31:55
5 Glyn Jones Coventry Godiva M70 32:14
6 Dan Maskell Surrey WC M65 32:46
7 Stuart Edgar Dudley & Stourbridge M45 32:50
8 Joe Hardy Lancs WC M70 33:08
9 Russ Jackson Yorkshire RWC M70 33:15
10 Phil McCullagh Lancs WC M60 34:50
11 Roy Gunnett Lancs WC M70 35:56
19 John Payn Lancs WC M80 39:05

 

Horwich BMAF 5K Race Walk 18th June 2017 – Times, Teams and Age Graded 

Bill and Adrian in close proximity as ever with Adrian edging ahead in the BMAF 5k

Adrian Edwards reports:

Thanks to everyone who came to Horwich. Hope you all enjoyed the day. One or two people couldn’t make it but I’ve included everyone in the e-mail as you may all be interested in the results.
It was a hot day with some hot performances, lots of scores on the age graded tables of over 70%. The age graded results are included at the bottom. (Brothers Crahan – I did double check the results – honest!)
The BMAF racers have been going for 10 years (11 editions) and it seems to be a popular event. We don’t have full control over the event but we are able to feedback to the hosts. If you feel there are any ways the event could be improved please get in touch and I’ll see what I can do. Bolton and Horwich councils have continued to support the event despite squeezes on finance and the event should run again next year. We should be able to offer an on line entry option in the future.
How do people feel about chip timing, we’d probably need a manual back up, and it would push up the entry costs? The leisure centre is being rebuilt (due to open later this year) and I’m not sure how this will impact the event. (Parking, registration, etc.)
Thanks Again.

Ladies
1 Sinead McConnell (W45) Finn Valley AC 28 minutes 32 seconds
2 Carolyn Dyall (W35) Nuneaton 28:50
3 Penelope Cummings (W40) AFD/HHH 29:02
4 Ann Wheeler (W60) Nuneaton 30:44
5 Julie Bellfield (W45) Halesowen 30:48
6 Fiona Bishop (W55) Woking AC 32:07
7 Lynn Bellfield (W50) Halesowen 33:17
8 Irene Pike (W65) Lancs. 33:50
9 Anne Gormley (W50) Donorc AC 35:57
10 Andrea Lennon (W75) Lancs. 42:10

Mens
1 Mark Williams (M50) Birchfield 26:05
2 Patrick Murphy (M55) Castleisland 26:23
3 Adrian Edwards (M55) Lancs. 28:03
4 Bill McFadden (M55) Scotia 28:12
5 Peter Boszko (M65) Birchfield 28:23
6 Tony Malone (M65) Lancs. 29:29
7 Roger Michell (M65) Surrey WC. 29:32
8 John Constandinou (M40) Birchfield 29:49
9 Sean Mcmullin (M70) Mullinger Harriers 30:37
10 Peter Crahan (M60) Lancs. 32:20
11 Ian Torode (M60) South West Vets 33:22
12 Stuart Edgar (M45) Dudley and Stourbrige H. 33:23
13 Simon Pugh (M55) Northern Masters AC 33:27
14 Joe Hardy (M70) Lancs. 33:35
15 John Crahan (M65) Lancs. 33:36
16 Ian Hilditch (M75) Lancs. 34:37
17 Sean Pender (M60) Enfield and Haringey 35:13
18 Phil McCullagh (M60) Lancs. 36:30
19 Norbert Will (M80) Northern Ireland M. 37:51
20 John Payn (M80) Lancs. 39:59
21 Edwin Grocock (M90) Sheffield 44:48

Teams
Mens
1 Birchfield Harriers (Williams, Boszko, Constandino) 14 pts
2 Lancashire Walking Club (Edwards, P. Crahan, McCullagh) 31 pts
Mens over 65
1 Lancashire Walking Club (Malone, Hardy, J Crahan) 35 pts

Age Graded Results
Ladies
1 Ann Wheeler 81.34%
2 Irene Pike 77.69%
3 Sinead McConnell 77.51%
4 Fiona Bishop 75.23%
5 Andrea Lennon 72.37%
6 Penelope Cummings 71.35%
7 Julie Bellfield 71.20%
8 Carolyn Dyall 70.76%
9 Lynn Bellfield 68.29%
10 Anne Gormley 64.49%

Men
1 Peter Boszko 86.14%
2 Roger Michell 83.60%
3 Sean McMullin 82.85%
4 Patrick Murphy 81.87%
5 Tony Malone 80.22%
6 Edwin Grocock 79.98%
7 Mark Williams 79.94%
8 Norbert Will 78.47%
9 Ian Hilditch 78.33%
10 Joe Hardy 77.47%
11 Adrian Edwards 76.29%
12 Bill McFadden 75.89%
13 John Payn 75.53%
14 John Crahan 72.77%
15 Peter Crahan 72.32%
16 Ian Torode 67.88%
17 Phil McCullagh 67.23%
18 Simon Pugh 66.42%
19 Sean Pender 66.40%
20 John Constandinou 65.46%
21 Stuart Edgar 59.91%

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Catching up continued with photos – Allen Trophy 15 miles at Chorley 6th May 2017

Posted on May 22, 2017 by Tony Taylor

 

Allen1

Ta to Linda McDermot for all the photos – this one is calendar material!

 

Firstly here is Fred Pearce’s report on the proceedings.

On a cold & breezy day 11 competitors set off on this exacting 15-mile race at Chorley.
The winner receiving the magnificent Allen Trophy , which is silver, stands over 50 cm tall, is 85 yrs old (1932) and is one of Lancashire Walking Clubs most prestigious trophies.
From the start it became a battle between Adrian and Bill ( our guest from Scotland) and lasted for most of the race with Adrian dominating the uphill and on the flat (?), and Bill catching up on the downhill. Bill finally broke away at approx 13miles on a downhill section then continued on to win. There was then another battle between two of our regular guests Glyn & Stuart, with Stuart getting the best of Glyn as the encountered the last uphill to the finish.
Huge congratulations to all 9 competitors who completed this picturesque, but hilly and demanding course around Chorley.

 

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Bill leads Adrian as they pass the drinks station

 

 

15 Miles

1 Bill McFadden Scotia RWC M55 2:21:36
2 Adrian Edwards Lancs WC M55 2:23:42
3 Stuart Edgar Dudley & Stourbridge M45 2:50:51
4 Glyn Jones Coventry Godiva M70 2:51:04
5 Joe Hardy Lancs WC M70 2:51:54
6 Dave Crompton Lancs WC M50 2:52:15
7 Sailash Shah Lancs WC M50 3:02:36
8 Ian Hilditch Lancs WC M75 3:02:46
9 Phil McCullagh Lancs WC M60 3:13:25

7.5 Miles
Pat Evans Lady Lancs WC W65 86:35

5 Miles
John Payn Lancs WC M80 66:21

 

Allen3

Joe Hardy leads Dave Crompton round the public house corner

 

And to add to the feel for this highlight of the season here is Trevor McDermot’s eloquent portrayal of the day. More than a few people have got in touch to say how pleased they were to have Trevor and Linda back on board.

Another spring day in beautiful West Pennines country, overlooked by cairn-capped moorlands.

Another afternoons engagement by the old Railway pub at the brow of Coppice Lane, where apparitions of sundry quarrymen and farmworkers may conceivably still gather to quaff the latest shared gossip and seal one more ghostly working day. Bronze Age peoples once settled this area, a Roman Empire oversaw lead mining, cotton mills powered by water wheels had performed their daily duty, and the new Anglezarke hub of reservoirs sent that most vital of all resources from rolling green-pastured store to the burgeoning population of Liverpool.

Another race for the Allen Trophy – in existence for many a decade – promoted by the Lancashire Walking Club over a distance of 15 Miles.

It was a cloudy Chorley lunchtime as the field assembled and lined up for their testing sojourn in the hills. We were suddenly entertained by a minicab that blocked their path. Two occupants disgorged, a gentleman and his Italian lady companion expecting a rather different kind of rural perambulation, were handled by Fred and Christine with customary efficiency, and all set off on their tasks. The couple were last seen a few hours later when, looking quite happy and freshly provisioned with water, they decided to once again explore the dog leg whence Eric had long departed his station. We wish them well.

Suitable drinks, buckets and sponging tables set up, we soon encountered the competitors on their first lap. Regular guesting friends from the Midlands – Glyn Jones and Stuart Edgar – were at the head of affairs, followed by the recognisable figures of bantering stalwarts Joe Hardy, Dave Crompton, and that unique action of everybody’s favourite tin soldier, little Sailash Shah. Not wearing his signature overcoat on this occasion, but looking as if he could carry on all night and tomorrow morning, and one of these days he will.

 

Sailash

Hi-vis Sailash Shah

 

Pat Evans and venerable John Payn were embarking on lesser distances, with no less a demonstration of excellent physical fitness than their clubmates. Ian Hilditch and Phil McCullagh bringing up the rear were to suffer yet make it manfully to the end, smiling throughout their struggle. Also bobbing around in general support were John Pouncy minus Jane, and club handicapper Dave Evans. Roy Gunnett was missing for the very good reason of a seventieth Birthday celebration, while various Crahans, Horwills and Tony Taylor had sent their apologies.

A few battles in recent years have been witnessed between those great friends and rivals Adrian Edwards and Bill McFadden. Although very different stylistically, both are as fair technicians as can be found. One is well known to carry himself straight-backed and marches quickly with great strength, the other with a busier, more fluid action utilising the hips fully. In each case we see every definition of walking fully complied with besides those categories yet to be invented. Giving a head start to the rest, within the early miles they had soon overhauled and we were then given quite a treat.

First one then the other led through the quiet, winding lanes bedecked with massed spectators of forget-me-nots, cow parsley and scattered bluebells. No part of this testing circuit is flat, the competitors go either up or down and need to amend their business accordingly. In the last five miles Bill forged ahead to finish a couple of minutes clear in a very decent 2hrs 21, and these twin performances over 15 miles should be treated with every respect given the environment and ages involved.

We congratulate both participants for whom there rightfully exists great respect at all levels within British race walking. Both are well regarded modest individuals and qualified Coaches in their own right who contribute a great deal to Athletics, for all ages, outside of their individual racing endeavours.

In particular, Bill continues to work single-handed with almost herculean effort amidst the Strathclyde region for the benefit of walking and arrived at the venue today from his long train journey breathless with the excitement of gaining a new member this week to one of his training groups. Anything that can be offered by way of assistance or support to this most deserving figure is encouraged. Even to get adequate racing opportunities requires long hours of travel. His plans for the near future include assaults on the NE England and Northern Ireland track championships, a little short for his true capabilities but still good tests of speed.

Post-race and back at the parish club we welcomed a cup of tea and general catch-up before the presentation. Congratulations are due to Lancashire WC for hosting an enjoyable event again, we thoroughly appreciate and applaud the efforts shown by all involved. It is difficult to imagine another mainland club turning out as many members to walk such a distance. There will be hundreds of different competitions taking place up and down the country this weekend; it can be stated with pleasure that this friendly offering in a lovely, scenic corner of the North West was equally valuable in enhancing the spirit of our sport as any other.

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Catching up – Macclesfield Shield 20K 8th April 2017

Posted on May 22, 2017 by Tony Taylor

Continuing apologies as I catch up with race results.

Macclesfield Shield 20K 8th April 2017

Roy Gunnett reports:

The race was held on the normal tough hilly course over 6 laps. It was a very pleasant warm sunny day (over 20C) with a clear blue sky throughout the race.

Adrian Edwards easily won the scratch race. Dan Maskell, up from Brighton, walked a strong race to come second. Roy Gunnett won the handicap prize and the Macclesfield Shield.

Special thanks are due to Eric Horwill who travelled up from the Midlands to do the timekeeping. This freed up Fred to be able to man the road junction the walkers have to cross on each lap.

20k
1 Adrian Edwards Lancashire WC M55 2:00:10
2 Dan Maskell Surrey WC M65 2:19:42
3 Roy Gunnett Lancashire WC M65 2:21:38
4 Dave Crompton Lancashire WC M50 2:22:39
5 Stuart Edgar Dudley & Stourbridge M45 2:25:07
6 Joe Hardy Lancashire WC M70 2:27:13
7 Ian Hilditch Lancashire WC M75 2:27:56
8 Sailash Shah Lancashire WC M55 2:30:06
9 Phil McCullough Lancashire WC M55 2:30:57

10K
1 Irene Pike Lady Lancashire WC W65 72:58
2 John Payn Lancashire WC M80 81:37

10.8K
Glyn Jones Coventry Godiva M70 75:32

17.2K
Greg Smith Lancashire WC M60 2:10:52

Following the race excellent refreshments were provided by Marshall Barnard and his wife.

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Fifty years on Lancashire repeat the double in the Northern 10 on March 18

Posted on May 11, 2017 by Tony Taylor

Sincere apologies for the belated appearance of this report, but I hope it’s of some interest and not too indulgent.

Given my first Northern 10 was fifty years ago I was determined to make the start of this year’s race at Stockport. I made it by the skin of my dentures, aided gallantly by Tony Malone, who, having witnessed my incompetence in the past, pinned the race number to my club singlet. Why have I always been fingers and thumbs when it comes to this simple task? Emerging from the dressing room into a miserable mix of cold breeze and drizzle I was immediately the subject of banter. How come, hotfoot from Crete, I was attired in a vest and skimpy shorts, whilst Bill McFadden from the wilds of Scotland was sensibly wearing both a thermal bob-cap and gloves?

Fortunately, as I had no sensible answer up my non-existent sleeve, we were called to the start line by none other than the statesman-like figure of John Eddershaw, a stalwart of our sport. In measured tones John called us to order, whilst Fred Pearce as Chief Judge waved the dreaded paddles, only one of which seemed to be relevant, namely that concerned with our knees. To lose contact was the stuff of our collective dreams.

From the outset Adrian Edwards dominated proceedings, chased vainly by myself, Bill and all around the sixteen, sometimes muddy, sometimes doggy laps. It was a challenging, decently surfaced course, even if Bill lamented the lack of inclines.  After the race in the welcome embrace of the hot showers, such was the day, we resembled more a Sunday league football team than a group of proud pedestrians.

In the clubhouse Fred Pearce opened the after-race proceedings by inviting John Eddershaw to present the medals, referring to his memorable exploits in the Manchester-Blackpool race, including a victory in 1972. John, known affectionately to his Sheffield team mates as ‘nid nod’ on account of his head nodding on every stride, won in 8:16:10 from Peter Markham 8:17:41 with Eric Crompton, third in 8:24:16, the latter leading Leyland Motors to a memorable team title. At this point nostalgia swept across the room as Fred drew our attention to the presence of others, who had finished in the first three of this sadly missed classic, namely Joe Hardy, Tony Malone, Mark Byrne and Graham Jackson. If I’d had my wits about me, I would have interrupted to add that in Denis Jackson, Graham’s father, we were privileged to race alongside one of Britains greatest all-rounders.  Denis still stands 5th on the all-time 50 kilometres list with his outstanding 1986 clocking of 4:03:08, set in Madrid over thirty years ago. In addition he dipped under 90 minutes for 20 kilometres with a time of 89:42 at York in the same year – not to mention by this time he had entered the veterans O40 ranks!

Dennis Jackson in his prime

NORTHERN  10 MILES CHAMPIONSHIP

Adrian and Bill locked in combat at Chorley, Ta to Linda McDermot

1 Adrian Edwards Lancashire WC ‘A’ M50 Lancs 1.32.21
2 Tony Taylor Lancashire WC ‘A’ M65 Lancs 1.33.22
3 Bill McFadden Scotia RWC M55 Scots 1.35.26
4 Tony Bell Lancashire WC ‘B’ M50 Lancs 1.43.26
5 Tony Malone Lancashire WC ‘A’ M65 Lancs 1.44.00
6 Graham Jackson Yorkshire CIU M45 Yorks 1.44.44
7 Dave Crompton Lancashire WC ‘B’ M50 Lancs 1.44.56
8 Dennis Jackson Yorkshire CIU M70 Yorks 1.46.00
9 Roy Gunnett Lancashire WC ‘B’ M65 Lancs 1.48.04
10 Peter Crahan Lancashire WC ‘C’ M60 Lancs 1.48.08
11 Joe Hardy Lancashire WC ‘C’ M70 Lancs 1.50.48
12 Mark Byrne Redcar RWC M55 Yorks 1.55.08
13 Ian Hilditch Lancashire WC ‘A’ M75 Lancs 1.55.20
14 Irene Pike Lady Lancashire WC W65 Lancs 1.57.43
15 Sailash Shah Lancashire WC ‘B’ M50 Lancs 1.59.33
16 John Crahan Lancashire WC ‘C’ M65 Lancs 2.02.40
17 Ian Vaughan Lancashire WC ‘C’ M60 Lancs 2.10.12

Guest Dan Maskell Surrey WC M65 1.49.21

Team Results
1 Lancashire WC ‘A’
2 Lancashire WC ‘B’
3 Lancashire WC ‘C’

Thus it was that Adrian, who had done much of the legwork in ensuring the race happened, took deservedly the individual title. In second place I took pleasure in reminding John Eddershaw that fifty years ago Lancashire led home by Ron Wallwork had ended Sheffield United Harriers’ thirty year winning streak in this championship. However the pleasure was fleeting, given the sad demise of that great club, once feared throughout the land. Unfortunately Bill McFadden was unable to receive his individual medal in person as he had been forced to dash up north. Disappointingly too no other teams were able to close in so our club swept the board.

A special vote of thanks must go the officials, who defied the elements – Fred Pearce, John Howley, Chris Bolton, Glyn Jones, Keith French, Eric and Kath Horwill. I suspect all of them would rather have competed.  In addition the club put on a champion spread, ably organised by Christine Pearce and Louise Crompton.

Keith French winning the Star Walk in 1965

All in all it was an excellently organised, but bitter-sweet occasion. I’ve not mentioned the fact that the day should also have hosted the triangular match between Lancashire, Yorkshire and Scotland for the Ken Munro Trophy. As it was our club took the prize by default. Hence we would be burying our heads in the mud of Woodbank Park if we did not recognise the dilemmas haunting our great sport in the North. None of us are getting any younger. The burden on a few officials is enormous. Indeed Fred Pearce, resilient as ever, had been ill during the week prior to the race. And, obviously, there are issues about where best to hold northern races, given the importance of supporting the valiant efforts of the Scotia club. There is much food for thought, but here’s hoping that in 2027 we celebrate another decade of the Northern 10!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Recent Results and Northern 10 news

Posted on March 7, 2017 by Tony Taylor

ALLISON TROPHY, CHORLEY, MARCH 4

 

IMG_20160529_103235797_HDR

Bill McFadden

 

Roy Gunnett reports:
We had an excellent turnout of 19 for this event – including guests from as far north as Glasgow and as far south as Brighton.
The weather had calmed down somewhat following storm Doris on Thursday.
Adrian and Bill McFadden had a close battle for most of the race until near the end when Bill pulled away strongly to win. Glyn just piped Dan to take third place.
Irene had a great race and easily won the Allison Trophy handicap prize .

 

pike

Irene Pike

We were all delighted to see John and Jane Pouncy returning to competition following the motorcycle accident they had last year.

 

15 kilometres

1 Bill Mc Fadden Scotia RWC M55 83.04
2 Adrian Edwards Lancashire WC M50 86.02
3 Glyn Jones Coventry Godiva M70 99.12
4 Dan Maskell Surrey WC M65 99.13
5 Dave Crompton Lancashire WC M50 101.26
6 Joe Hardy Lancashire WC M70 102.02
7 Irene Pike Lady Lancashire WC W65 102.38
8 Stuart Edgar Dudley & Stourbridge M45 102.54
9 Phil McCullough Lancashire WC M55 104.32
10 Roy Gunnett Lancashire WC M65 104.55
11 John Crahan Lancashire WC M60 105.00
12 Ian Hilditch Lancashire WC M75 105.59
13 Sailash Shah Lancashire WC M50 110.37
14 Ian Vaughan Lancashire WC M60 122.51
15 John Payn Lancashire WC M80 127.32

11 kilometres

1 Greg Smith Lancashire WC M60 78.53
2 Andrea Lennon Lady Lancashire WC W75 95.19

7 kilometres
1 John Pouncy Lancashire WC M70 63.32
2 Jane Pouncy Lady Lancashire WC W60 64.51

MOLLY BARNET & ENGLAND ATHLETICS 10 KILOMETRES, COVENTRY, MARCH 5

Fred Pearce reports:

1 Tom Bosworth 40.20
2 Callum Wilkinson 40.59
3 Cameron Corbishley 41.23
17 Dave Crompton 65.00
22 John Crahan 68.56
23 Roy Gunnett 71.00
DQ Sailash Shah ( 3 x <)
DNS Tony Bell. Sore throat and cold
Teams :
1 Manx H. 2 Enfield & Haringey 3 Birchfield H. 4 Lancashire W C

Weather cold (5deg)….windy…..wet .including hail stone at one stage….sun for about 5 mins. All in all poor conditions for racing……but we did well to finish a team. At least 50% of the field received at least one red card.

Mark Easton’s photos of the race here. Some good ones of Dave and John, too safe, but good knees.

LATE NEWS: PLEASE SUPPORT

Northern Area RWA 10mile championship and Triangular match will take place on Saturday, March 18 at Stockport

woodbank-park2

Important information from Roy Gunnett

The race will be held over a traffic free lap course within Woodbank Memorial Park , Stockport., starting at 1.30 p.m.

The lap length is 1k in length – therefore 16 and a bit laps to complete the 10 miles.

The park is just a couple of minutes from Junction 27 on the M60.  Map and directions

There are 2 car parks which can be used – namely a small car park by the museum which is postcode SK1 4JR and a larger car park behind the community centre which is postcode SK1 4BN. Both car parks are off Turncroft Lane, the 2 parks are a short walk to the changing rooms and the athletics track. Registration, changing , refreshments, awards will be at Stockport H .Track.

I have attached 2017 NARWA 10 Mile Championship entry form. Closing date for entries is Wednesday March 15th.

Cheques for the £5 individual entry fee should be made out to Lancashire Walking Club. Cheques for the £8 team entry fee should also be made out to the Lancashire Walking Club.

We will need helpers at the race as well as walkers – so if you are not walking and can help please let Fred know.

Entries should be posted to:
Fred Pearce
4 Anglesey Drive,
Poynton
Cheshire
SK12 1BT.
Fred’s email is pearce63@hotmail.com

 

 

 

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Belated New Year Catch-Up and Sam Shoebottom Result

Posted on February 13, 2017 by Tony Taylor

I must apologise for the lack of posts on the site over the past few months. Unfortunately a range of personal issues has been overwhelming. This has been especially frustrating as I’ve got some great stuff in the bank, including a fascinating account of his Manchester-Blackpool exploits from Guy Goodair. Hopefully, in the coming weeks, I’ll get a grip on proceedings.

For now find below a couple of race results to keep the site up-to-date.

Sam Shoebottom 10K 4th February 2017 at Simister 

Fred Pearce reports:

‘We had a good turnout of 15 (2 of which did 5k) for the first event of 2017 following the winter break. The weather was kind to us with winter sunshine and a temperature of 10 deg C.
At half way (5k) the first 4 were having a contest going through within 3 seconds of each other ( just under 32mins)…..followed by Peter Crahan 24 sec back….and then another battle of 4 in just over 33mins.
Tony pulled away in the last kilometre to win from Dave with Glyn finishing third 100 m back.
A great day of competition and camaraderie to start the new year’.

 

Kenmunro

Tony Bell leads Martin Fisher in a Winter League race

 

1 Tony Bell Lancashire WC M50 63.37
2 Dave Crompton Lancashire WC M50 63.51
3 Glyn Jones Coventry Godiva M70 64.27
4 Peter Crahan Lancashire WC M60 65.29
5 John Crahan Lancashire WC M65 66.14
6 Stuart Edgar Dudley & Stourbridge M45 66.15
7 Joe Hardy Lancashire WC M70 66.47
8 Pat Evans Lady Lancashire WC M65 66.59
9 Greg Smith Lancashire WC M60 67.38
10 Phil McCullough Lancashire WC M55 69.13
11 Sailash Shah Lancashire WC M50 70.20
12 Andrea Lennon Lady Lancashire WC W75 78.06
13 John Payn Lancashire WC M80 78.55

5K
1 Irene Pike Lady Lancashire WC W65 33.22
2 Ian Hilditch Lancashire WC M75 37.22

 

FINAL NORTHERN WINTER LEAGUE 10KM 29th JAN. 2017, ADWALTON MOOR, DRIGHLINGTON

Great credit is due to Dave Crompton for his steadfast support of the Winter League races. just a point away from being joint first overall.

Dave Crompton

Dave Crompton [minus festive hat] leads Denis and Russ Jackson at Kirkby Fleetham.

 1. W.McFADDEN SCOTIA WC 57.36  2. C. SCOTT YRWC 62.28  3. G. JACKSON YORK CIU 63.16  4. A. THACKER YRWC 63.51  5. D.CROMPTON LANCS 64.53  6. D. JACKSON YORK CIU 65.08  7. A. ELLIS (F) SCOTIA WC 65.26  8. R. JACKSON YRWC 65.51  9. M. COLE UNATT. 68.37  10. M. BYRNE REDCAR WC 70.57  11. D. COLE REDCAR WC 74.19  12. G. McCONNELL SCOTIA WC 80.05  13. K. FRENCH YRWC 83.35

 
OVERALL LEAGUE RESULT
1. C. Scott 107 Pts 2. D Jones 107 Pts 3. D Crompton 106 pts

 
TEAMS
1. YRWC 305 Pts C. Scott 107, A. Thacker 100, K. French 98
2. REDCAR WC 259 Pts D.Jones 107, L Holmes 78, M Byrne 74

 
Individual gaining no other prize; R Jackson YRWC

 
A total of 19 walkers competed throughout the series, one less than last year. We need some new blood, of the sort who know that real life exists outside the confines of their mobile screens. Oh well, the organiser is off to Oz now, for some warm weather training.

Alan Brooks

 

 

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Lookin’ for’ards : Fixtures for 2017

Posted on December 17, 2016 by Tony Taylor

Find below next year’s fixture in case you lose  the circulated hard copy and so that the web site is up-to-date.

fixtures

On a personal note [ and I don’t think it’s just my hobby horse] we are still struggling to find a couple of flat road courses, where we can improve both technique and speed.Funnily enough I was looking back at club races from fifty years ago and there were any number of flattish, fast courses at such places as Denton, Wythenshawe, Urmston, Leigh, Bolton and indeed the West Didsbury HQ, all of which have fallen foul of the all-consuming automobile. It’s not that we didn’t have courses of character like Chorley and Sutton Macclesfield. We were just lucky enough to have a greater diversity of venues. As things stand I believe we are exploring whether the Northern 10, March 18 might be held on the Woodbank Park circuit, Stockport, which would be excellent.

FIXTURES 2017

 

    4  FEB B 10k Sam Shoebottom Trophy 1.30 SIMISTER

 

 25   FEB B 15k Alison Trophy 1.30 CHORLEY

 

   4   MAR A 10k ENGLAND ATH. CHAMPs ? COVENTRY

 

 18    MAR A 10m NARWA CHAMPS

Lancs v Yorks v Scotland

 1.30 Venue to be decided

 

   8    APR  B 20k Macclesfield Shield 1.30 SUTTON MACC’FLD

 

 29    APR A 10k RWA CHAMPS ? COVENTRY

 

   6   MAY       B 15 miles Allen Trophy 1.30 CHORLEY

 

21    MAY   A 20k NARWA CHAMPS 12.00 THORNTON

LE-CLAY

 

27     MAY  B 3 X 5K Fred Pearce Trophy Relay 1.30 SIMISTER

 

18    JUNE A 5K BMAF CHAMPS M/W 10.30 HORWICH

 

25    JUNE   A 20k RWA CHAMPS ? ROUNDHAY PARK LEEDS

 

  8     JULY B 10k Barnard Trophy 1.30 SUTTON MACC’FLD

 

22     JULY   A 10k NARWA CHAMPS ? DUNN’TON YORKS

 

29     JULY B 1 hour track Lambert Trophy 1.30 BURY A C TRACK

 

   5 AUG           B 100 miles CENTURION BURY ST EDMUNDS

 

13     AUG    A 20k &50k IAAF WORLD CHAMPS THE MALL   LONDON

 

19     AUG B 10K Goodwin Cup 1.30 CHORLEY

 

  9    SEPT B 2 Hour track R & Z Smith Trophy 1.30 BURY A C TRACK

 

  1   OCT      A 50k RWA FESTIVAL OF RACE WALKING ? HILLIN’DON

 

  7    OCT B 10k Albert Rigby Shield 1.30 SUTTON MACC’FLD

 

  4   NOV B 5k Lancashire Walking Club AGM (110th) 1.30 SIMISTER

 

   2   DEC B 10k Dick Maxwell Mem. Race &  Xmas H’cap 1.30 SIMISTER
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Bill Jackson 5K and Club AGM

Posted on December 14, 2016 by Tony Taylor
bury-grp

Great group photo from Bury – Ta to Linda McDermot

Bill Jackson Trophy 5,000 metres, 3rd December 2016 at Simister : Race Permit RWA 6073-1A

Roy Gunnett reports:

There was a good turnout for the race of 18 walkers – these included 2 guest walkers (Glyn Jones from the Midlands and Dan Maskell from Brighton). Weather conditions were cold and sunny. The scratch race was won by Greg Smith closely followed in second and third by the two Crahan brothers Peter and John.The winner of a tightly contested handicap race was Irene Pike.

pike

Linda in full flow at Bury – Ta to Linda again

1 Greg Smith Lancashire WC M60  31.13
2 Peter Crahan Lancashire WC M60 31.19
3 John Crahan Lancashire WC M65  31.32
4 Dan Maskell Surrey WC M65 31.40
5 Dave Crompton Lancashire WC M50 31.42
6 Glyn Jones Coventry Godiva M70  31.49
7 Joe Hardy Lancashire WC M70  32.34
8 Roy Gunnett Lancashire WC M65  32.44
9 Pat Evans  Lancashire WC W65  33.10
10 Tony Bell Lancashire WC M50  33.13
11 Dave Connor Unattached M40  33.26
12 Irene Pike Lancashire WC W65  33.47
13 Sailash Shah Lancashire WC M50  34.35
14 Phil McCullough Lancashire WC M55  35.06
15 Ian Vaughan Lancashire WC M60  36.57
16 Ian Hilditch Lancashire WC M75  37.24
17 John Payn Lancashire WC M80  38.15
18 Andrea Lennon  Lancashire WC W75  38.58

Might, I add – Great piece of handicapping by Dave Evans – barely 39 seconds between the first and sixth.

Further information from Fred on the day:

With regards to the race………Dave Evans & myself did the timekeeping and recorded, Chris Bolton turned everybody round in the Park ( replacing the much missed Vic Murray’s  position ), Adrian Edwards ( recently qualified) judged/ marshalled . Incidentally, I stood with Adrian for 2 periods as the walkers passed for his observations / comments etc …..
A new guy Dave Connor ( lives in Knowsley) turned up out of the blue to race. He is in his early 40s and is a Triathlete. Performed well ( obviously very fit) and I feel would be good if we can hold onto him and develop his technique. Dave gave him tuition prior to the race and I tried to help him during the race and afterwards….watch this space.

 

The 109th Lancashire Walking Club AGM was held following the race, chaired and presented, to everyone’s pleasure, by Fred Pearce, back at the helm following his absence from the last couple of races due to health problems. As usual the club’s Secret Santa presided over the giving of presents and the munching of mince pies, all accompanied by festive music.

The AGM agenda was full to the brim, but Fred’s firm chairing meant that the business was completed by 4.45. Evidently he left a touch knackered, but satisfied with events. Since the day has Fred has distributed a range of material to keep everyone up-to-date. Hence I’ll post here no more than the names of the recipients of the club’s 2016 Awards.

Winner of the Annual Handicap prize : Joe Hardy

Winner of the A J Taylor Award for the best performance of the season : Roy Gunnett

Winner of the Cliff Royle Salver for the best long distance performance of the season: Adrian Edwards

I’ll do a separate post looking at the fixture list before Xmas.

 

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Out of the Nightmare, Christmas beckons

Posted on November 25, 2016 by Tony Taylor
nightmare

The Nightmare course on a good day!

Roy Gunnett reports:

This is the first race in the new 2016 to 2017 season.
The race was held over the tough/ undulating 6 lap ‘Nightmare Course’ – on a bright sunny cool day.
Tony Taylor, over from his home in Crete, won the scratch race in a great time for his age group of 55mins 42secs.
Stuart Edgar, up from the Midlands, walked strongly to secure second place.
Sailash Shah won the handicap.
After the race all enjoyed the annual /traditional pie and peas kindly provided by Pat and served by her and Flo.

1 Tony Taylor Lancashire WC M65 55.42
2 Stuart Edgar Dudley & Stourbridge M45 63.51
3 Sailash Shah Lancashire WC M50 65.21
4 Roy Gunnett Lancashire WC M65 66.00
5 Joe Hardy Lancashire WC M70 66.28
6 Dave Crompton Lancashire WC M50 66.35
7 Phil McCullagh Lancashire WC M55 68.17
8 John Payn Lancashire WC M80 76.59
9 Ian Vaughan Lancashire WC M60 79.47

5K
1 Pat Evans Lady Lancashire WC W65 33.25

3.33K
Ian Hilditch Lancashire WC M75 27.22

[Thanks too to Dave and Roy for improvising, given the water on the course and fireworks in Heaton Park, to Eric and Pam Horwill, Eric Crompton and Greg Smith for officiating in freezing conditions. Whatever anyone says, it was freezing as far as a Wigan immigrant in Crete is concerned!]

 

NEXT RACE: 5k ordinary handicap race followed by the 109th AGM

DATE SATURDAY 3rd December 2016

VENUE: LADY WILTON HALL, SIMISTER LANE, SIMISTER, PRESTWICH, MANCHESTER, M25 2RX

START: 1.30PM

We will have our Christmas ‘Secret Santa’ following the race – please bring along a wrapped present up to the value of £5 for this.

Look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the race/meeting.

To quote Fred ‘s request in his letter: –

‘It is essential that you make every effort to attend in order that your valued contribution will help with the election of officers and decisions to be made for the future success of the Lancashire Walking Club’.

The latest news is that Fred Pearce is on the mend after his operation and will as ever preside over the business of the AGM. Will be great to see him back at the helm.

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To end on a very sad note we extend our sincerest condolences to Greg Smith on the tragic loss of his wife, Shauna. Amidst the grief and trauma Greg, a long-standing stalwart of the club, found the energy and time to be with us at Simister. Indeed he volunteered to man the bleak, windswept turning point out in the fields. Everyone was moved by his presence. In some small way we hope the club might prove to be a source of strength and comradeship in the coming months.

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Adrian and Roy gut it out to retain the 50k team trophy plus more results and important news

Posted on October 13, 2016 by Tony Taylor

Adrian Edwards reports from the National 50 kilometres championship, where he almost pulled off a hat-trick of individual victories. Great respect to both Adrian and Roy for hanging in when things weren’t going their way. Frankly the out and back 500 metres for a 50 kilometres sounds a nightmare.
3 years in a row for the red rose.
I had another bad day at the office but got over the line. Roy was on schedule at half way, but slowed a bit and it was going to be close, he put in a spurt near the end and came home with 2 minutes to spare.

Adrian

Adrian winning the Northern 35k

They were really strict. Someone who has only been walking 2 years, doing his first 50K, got to 49 with 3 minutes to go and they wouldn’t let him finish. They wouldn’t wait an extra 5 minutes. He was fine about it and said he’ll just have another go next year. Good man, I would’ve spat my dummy out!

gunnett

Roy winning the 2 Hours Challenge

I was talking to some officials who said if Roy didn’t get over the line in the required time they wouldn’t award a team trophy, ignoring the classification from 35K rule they have sometimes used. So well done the man. He gets my vote for long distance performance of the year. It’s not an easy course 500 metres out and back on a bend, tight turns at each end and an awkward road camber, being a cycle circuit. He walked well, 50K is tough at any age.

RWA Men’s 50km (B) – Team = Lancashire Walking Club
1 Matthew Haddock (M35) Manx Harriers 5:32:33 2 Adrian Edwards (M50) Lancashire Walking Club 5:46:36 3 Martin Fisher (M50) Redcar Race Walking Club 6:07:48 4 John Borgars (M70) Loughton Athletic Club 6:08:17 5 Roy Gunnett (M65) Lancashire Walking Club 6:12:44
David Bowker (M55) Fairlands Valley Spartans DNF Chris Flint (M70) Surrey Walking Club DNF Ed Shillabeer (M75) Ilford Athletic Club DNF John Constandinou (M40) Birchfield Harriers DNF Sean Pender (M60) Enfield & Haringey AC DNF Colin Vesty (M50) Leicester Walking Club DNF Mark Culshaw (M50) Belgrave Harriers DNF Jonathan Hobbs Ashford Athletic Club DNF

A number of our walkers supported the Annual Ryan Cup event, walking for the Civil Service against the Police, held mid-week on September 23. Pat Evans was an excellent second in the Women’s 5k, clocking 32:36.

evans

Pat leads the lads at Bury

In the Men’s 10k Peter Crahan, Dave Evans and John Crahan packed tightly, finishing in 64:02, 64:14 and 64:30 respectively. Indeed Dan Maskell and Glyn Jones, great supporters of our events, must like Lancashire’s company on the road, for they clocked 63:51 and 64:12. It looks as if you could have thrown the proverbial blanket over the lot of them.

Albert Rigby Shield 10k held at Macclesfield on 8th October 2016.

Roy Gunnett reports:
Glyn Jones and Stuart Edgar, who travelled up from the Midlands, gained first and second places in the race – and in a madcap sprint finish, it would seem!?
John Crahan won the handicap and was awarded the Albert Rigby Shield.
The weather was dry and mild for October.
Marshall and Kath Barnard provided, as usual, excellent post race refreshments.

Glyn manning the feeding station at Bury and keeping a close eye on Ron’s technique!

1 Glyn Jones Coventry Godiva M70 65.30
2 Stuart Edgar Dudley & Stourbridge M45 65.33
3 John Crahan Lancashire WC M65 66.21
4 Joe Hardy Lancashire WC M70 67.22
5 Pat Evans Lady Lancashire WC W65 67.29
6 Dave Crompton Lancashire WC M50 67.58
7 Irene Pike Lady Lancashire WC W65 71.01
8 Steve Sargent Lancashire WC M65 71.34
9 Roy Gunnett Lancashire WC M65 71.53
10 John Payn Lancashire WC M80 79.49
11 Ian Hilditch Lancashire WC M75 79.50
12 Ian Vaughan Lancashire WC M60 81.36

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IMPORTANT NOTE from Roy

A decision was taken following the race to swap the next two races around, namely:

Original Dates
5th November 5k @ Simister followed by 109th AGM meeting
3rd December 10k @ Simister ‘Dick Maxwell Mem. Race’

New Dates

5th November 10k @ Simister ‘Dick Maxwell Mem. Race’
3rd December 5k @ Simister followed by 109th AGM meeting

The reason for this swap is because Fred unfortunately has some health problems – which are currently being treated. He will need some recovery time to get over his treatment and therefore he will not have time to do the considerable amount of work required to prepare for an AGM to take place on the original 5th Nov. date. Swapping the races around will give the extra time needed by Fred.

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I’m sure we all wish Fred all the very best and hope to see him fighting fit at the beginning of December.

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