ULTRA DISTANCE RUNNING
By  Corinna Stephens

There is something different about ultra distance runners. They can’t stop themselves. Bev Tarry is the prime example in our club. She plans to do a 100 miler this year and so what better after the London marathon than give it a break for a couple of weeks and then drive to Sunderland for another one.

Described as the Marathon of the North it starts and finishes at the Stadium of Light, the home ground of Sunderland Football Club. Bev crossed the finishing line (close to the spot where Rooney celebrated his match - but not Championship - winning goal last weekend). Bev’s celebrations after 4 hours 52 minutes on the road were rather more muted.

Then at 9 a.m. last Saturday I set out on my first Ultra Marathon, the Marlborough Downs 33 Mile Challenge, a self navigation event taking in what seemed to be most of Wiltshire. At the start I began to feel a bit intimidated by the tall, older men who looked very serious indeed whereas I just aimed to just get around in one piece.

Items of interest on the way included Avebury, a white chalk horse, blue bell woods and stunning views from ridge ways. The day was bright and clear so the views were simply gorgeous. Over small bridges, up gullies, across fields, along a canal, through gates and oh so many stiles!

It was going steadily until mile 18 (I struggle with miles 17-20 in marathons too, they seem nondescript) and I was getting tired mentally. Up until then I had not considered that I might need food (although now it seems obvious). Luckily one of my fellow runners gave me a peanut butter sandwich, the importance of nutrition was realised and I perked up only to struggle again as the route then went straight up to the top of another large hill.

Then a few of us couldn’t find the route. We must have spent 10 minutes conferring before all agreeing it was the one of two gates, the one which we had just come through - amazing what tiredness does! Taking a wrong turn at mile 30 also didn't help, meaning we did a mile further than we should have. However, I did finish, feeling as though I probably could have pushed the pace a bit more in 8hrs 8mins.

I would recommend this race and will be returning next year!

The Great West Run
 by Colin Flood

Before 2006, the Exeter Half Marathon, nowadays known as the Great West Run, wended its way in a loop around the city. But then the route was changed to what is essentially 2 laps up and down Pinhoe Road, which means passing the same landmark 4 times. Not the most fascinating from the runner’s point of view.

Whether it’s this, the race being one of the most expensive to enter, or the current economic situation, but it resulted in there being 500 or so fewer entries than previous years.

However, there were still around 1700, and the small Sidmouth contingent gave a good account of themselves. Matt Szala had an absolute flyer, romping home in 7th place overall in 1hour 19 minutes. Matt always does Sidmouth proud, and at his age, surely the best is still to come. Adrian Organ, having struggled with injury for a while, hugely improved on his previous time, coming 215th in 1.38.

Paul Mitchell (460th), feeling the effects of the London Marathon just 2 weeks ago, equalled his time of last year of 1.46. He, and Colin Flood (461st), completed the whole race together, burying their long-standing rivalry – temporarily!

Not far behind was Tim Clay (500th). Determined to improve on last year’s time, Tim perhaps started a little too enthusiastically and slowed a bit towards the end, but still knocked a whacking 6 minutes off his target, finishing in a fine 1.47.

The weather was perfect, the organisation as good as ever, but please can we have the old course back?

Taking the shorter, muddier and hillier option was another small contingent from the Club who travelled to Honiton for the Hippo run which, as its name implies, entails much wallowing and paddling around in terrain normally used for pushing Land Rovers to their limits. Taking it all in his stride was young Grey Grierson who took time off his school work to romp around in 57 minutes for 11th place overall whilst Aaron Smith and Tess Stone also checked out the course for the first time.

Aaron finished creditably just over the hour mark and Tess, making a rare appearance in Club colours, showed that she hasn’t lost it at all by taking the 1st Vet Lady 45 prize in 1 hour12 minutes. Bringing up the rear in a more sedate fashion were regulars John Perratt 1.16, Brian Gosling 1.19 and Bill (I am not crawling through that filthy mud hole) Valentine 1.21.

A QUIET WEEK!
After the excitement of the London Marathon it has been a quiet week, made even more so by the unpleasant weather over last weekend.  Hopefully that lethargy will have passed as this Sunday sees two quite diverse challenges in the Great West Run in Exeter and the Honiton Hippo, a scenic 7 miler  incorporating the Land Rover Experience course  around Awliscombe.

In the meantime the Club recently held its Ninth Annual General meeting after another successful year.  Chris Long takes over again as Chairman of the Club and we welcome Sarah Brown, Gareth Horrrocks, Cathy Keast, Aaron Smith and Phil Welsford to the committee.  The Trophies for Lady and Male Runners of the year were presented to Cathy Keast  and Milan Goc respectively and the popular “Runners’ Runner of the Year “ went to Helen Palmer . 

Becky Robson was the winner of the Muttersmoor Time Trial series over the 4 mile course having run consistently well over the 5 races whilst Toby Garrick was awarded the Shield for the shorter 2 mile course.  Di Puzey, the retiring Chair person then presented Coin Flood her award for his untiring work for the club during the year and Louise Brown, albeit reluctantly, accepted the Wooden Spoon for  losing her allocated race number under questionable circumstances.  Junior Cups are also to be presented to Dulcie Grierson and Matthew Sheridan.

Virgin London Marathon 2012
In its 32nd year about 37,500 amateur athletes, fun runners and elite sportsmen and women ran the Virgin London Marathon. Prince Harry, who had earlier met volunteers at the event, was also at the finishing line on The Mall to congratulate runners.

More than 100 people were attempting to break world records during the race. Our own Sidmouth Bride, Naomi Garrick, who is now classed a 'Celeb' broke the record by far, in 3.41 and she won’t want to know us soon, having been highlighted on the BBC News and ditching us on Monday morning for a date with ITV!

The Club’s Elite Male Runners both did well. Milan Goc, although suffering from a cold, still managed to breeze it, in 2.47 and Laurence Bolam, who has been training nearly everyday for this, showed it really does pay off with a fantastic time of 2.55. His run was made even more pleasurable by running in the slipstream of Nell McAndrew  (the first Celebrity runner to finish).

 Pam White was the first Sidmouth Lady home in 3.34 justly earning her ‘Good for Age’ place next year followed by Fiona Cummins (3.42) and Lesley Roberts (3.52). Fiona  maintained her good London Marathon record and also got the automatic qualifying time (3.50) despite slowing down over the last few miles. Also under the four hour mark was Paul Mitchell. He and Phil Welsford both complained of the heat and realised the Marathon was a lot harder than they had imagined but they still finished in very respectable times of 3.59 and 4.10 respectively. 

Jo Earlam, now a veteran marathon runner romped home in 4.05 whilst Cathy Keast, running her first Marathon, vowed it would be her last but finished in 4.09 the same time as Becky Robson who did well after a long term injury had hampered her training.

Then came the rest of the large Sidmouth female contingent: Lynda Hawkins 4.11, Helen Palmer 4.16, Jane Hemsworth 4.18, Veronica Bray 4.29, Sandra Kirley 4.45, Bev Tarry 5.07 and  Anne Langworthy 5.19. Amongst that lot was Neil Rutter in 4.17 but almost unnoticed was the fact that his young son Luke was also running. He was a promising Junior runner at the club some years ago but disappeared only to resurface in London more than half an hour in front of his Dad.

Overall, it was a very good display from the Club and all our runners enjoyed the unpredictable weather and impeccable organisation of such a classic event.

THE EXMOOR COASTAL TRAIL MARATHON
By Gareth Horrocks

At the start of the Exmoor Coastal Trail Marathon the Endurance Life team who organise it gave a speech about what they try to get out of their races, something along the lines of "Extremely hard races, in extremely beautiful places."

This race certainly lived up to both and the extremely hard bit started right from the beginning. After a few hundred metres the route to the top of the cliffs began with a climb of around 500 metres over about half a mile but once at the top it was clear why this is labelled as the most beautiful in the country, the views were absolutely stunning and remained so throughout the race.

As the race title suggests the majority of the race was spent  running along small coastal trails with very, very, steep descents (I have never seen so many signs warning you of the danger you are in) and some truly soul destroying ascents. I lost count of how many times I was relieved to have survived one of the life threatening downhill sections and felt relieved to see a bit of flat ground before realising it was just a short carriage to yet another climb up the cliff AGAIN (I did hear someone quote that 60% of the race was uphill).

That is also not to forget passing through somewhere called the Valley of Rocks which really tested the ankles and knees and where I hurt my ankle and had to hobble to the finish. This was a truly punishing race but there were very few miles on the road which meant that, however downbeat I got at the sight of another hill with no apparent end, the views and scenery throughout were magnificent,

I think that there are not many races that could beat the views around Sidmouth but this one did it for me. I just about managed to finish this really tough course in 5:02 hours with the winner coming in just under 4 hours. All in all it was a very well organised race with good support throughout and a rewarding experience.

Next weekend of course sees a lot of our members making the trip to London and, if anyone feels inspired by their efforts, the Club will be starting another 8 week Beginners’ Course with the first session on Wednesday 2 May at the Sailing Club. For further details phone Janet Ackford on 01395 516169

LAST WEEKEND
The Bampton to Tiverton is the oldest ongoing running race in the County. It all started in 1946 and has kept going every Easter Monday since.  Coaches from the Tiverton Rugby club take runners to the start at the White Horse pub in Bampton  and the race covers the 7 plus miles back to the People’s Park high above the town in Tiverton.

Bill Valentine has probably run more of these races than anyone else, having started way back in the 60s, and it is one that he always enjoys despite slowly working his way down the field each year. Mick Allen was our only other representative on the day and this time he showed Bill a clean pair of heels. The results are not yet available but there are occasions when meeting up with old friends is more important than the finishing times.

On the same rain swept morning, another trio went to Yeovilton for the Easter Bunny 10k based on the Royal Navy Air Station.  It is John Perratt’s favourite distance and surface but his companions were a bit of a surprise. Helen Palmer wanted to get some mileage in as preparation for London but also wanted to check her pacing with a quickish 10k. She solved both of those contrasting problems by flashing round the 10k time trial in just on 52 minute in the morning and then going out on the Club’s 6 miler in the evening. The third runner came from nowhere. Sophie Keast on her Easter vacation from Chichester University woke up in the morning and thought it would be a good idea to run a 10k race. She hadn’t done one before so what better time to start. She set herself a target time of one hour but those long legs of hers got her round comfortably and in impressive style some 4 minutes quicker.  Welcome to the 10k Club, Sophie!

TAUNTON HALF AND THE EXE TO AXE
by Lesley Roberts

Or Click here for an alternative version and have a look at the Apache Tramp Photos on the Photo page

The Taunton Half Marathon starts at the Somerset College of Arts and Technology and winds it way through the main streets of Taunton out into the Somerset countryside taking in Norton Fitzwarren on to the villages of Oake and Bradford-on-Tone, then back to the start on the A38. The course is undulating with hills at around 11 miles, just when you don’t need them!.

The support team consisting of Iain (Photographer and Trying To Get Back Into Training) Burns, Guy (Drink and Chocolate Carrier) Bennett and Lesley (To Late To Enter) Roberts  assumed their positions at the start to cheer on the 9 runners from Sidmouth that had entered.   Sidmouth's Laurence Bolam, and  Matt Szala were in their usual positions, up the front,  and as the runners  headed out of Taunton the pace was certainly very quick..

At the 4 mile mark, we watched our runners pass by, Laurence and Matt certainly were well up with the leaders but having a private race amongst themselves. At  the 11 mile point they were still neck and neck and keeping focused, but as Matt's cramp got the better of him, Laurence overtook and came through the finish in an excellent  1.18 for 12th place with Matt just a minute later at 1.19 for 16th

Jessica Raynor (nee Watkins) was Sidmouth's first lady runner in her first half since having her baby and finished in 1.33. This time her husband, Simon, was also running and his training certainly paid off as he finished at 1.55. The rest of the Sidmouth contingent were running to a plan in preparation for London later in the month. George Chalstrey and Becky Robson were both very cautious in their first race after being sidelined for some time with injuries. They both appear to have come through unscathed and George will have been pleased with his time of 1.42 picking up the prize for the 3rd male over 60 on the way. Jo Earlam is logging up some serious mileage these days and this was reflect in her time of 1.51. Becky, together with Lynda Hawkins had set themselves a comfortable target of 2 hours and bang on schedule finished with half a minute to spare. Anne Langworthy similarly didn’t push it and just wanted to run at her ‘own marathon’ pace. Two hours and twelve minutes later the job was done. All that remained was to find enough petrol to get home.

A bit closer to home was the Exe to Axe, a race that does not appeal to everyone. For a start it is a very long way from Exmouth to Seaton along the coastal Path. It is also very hilly, clashes with Taunton, easy to get lost and it also interferes with the training schedules of those doing the London Marathon in a few weeks time. Nevertheless it does have its adherents and attracts some quality runners from all round the country.

We do though see a lot of runners who haven’t run that distance before, quite fancy the idea but are not sure about it. New ones like that come every year and a lot of them pull out at Sidmouth, roughly half way, or Branscombe when exhaustion has really set in. The valiant few battle it out to the end, and one such this time was Sarah Brown. She was not exactly smiling as she strode purposely along the Seaton Esplanade towards the Hook & Parrot but she should certainly be proud of herself. Well Done, Sarah.
Colin Flood who ran with Sarah for a lot of the way and David Welsh were our only other runners to make it to the bitter end - apart from Corinna Stephens who did a great job as Tail-End-Charlie, nursing the lame and wounded at the back of the field. Milan Goc and Phil Welsford opted for the convenience of the half distance as preparation for London.

SAINSBURY’S SPORT RELIEF MILE

by Colin Flood

There was no championship at stake, and not much competitiveness.  There were no records to break, in fact there weren’t even any timekeepers. But if you wanted all that you’d missed the point, as 270 Sidmouth folk of all shapes, sizes and ages joined in the Sport Relief Mile in the Byes on Sunday. There was an option to do 1, 3 or 6 laps, each lap being a mile, but it was the ‘extra mile’ that drew the most.

Sidmouth coach Aaron Smith soon had everyone joining in a warm-up session before the start, surely the biggest warm-up session we’ve ever seen, and then off they went. In fancy dress, push-chairs, baby carriers and even on stilts. The space hopper may have been bending the rules a bit, but nobody cared. After all, it’s probably more difficult to bounce a mile than run it.

Nancy Good was with her daughter Louise, who was with her daughter Lucy, who was with her daughter Izzy(5).  Theo Lewis(3 months) claimed to be the youngest, but he hitched a lift with mum Clare.  There was a 3 year old who completed 3 laps, that’s 3 miles, and there were many who had never even run for a bus. But it was Sam Marriott who romped home first in the 3 lap event, do we have a budding Olympian here?

The sun shone from a clear blue sky and the Byes were in full Spring bloom, which took minds off the distance. “Was that really a mile, it didn’t seem like it?”  They may not have swum the Thames, or rowed across the Channel, but everyone went home happy with a smile on their face, a bottle of water and a medal to prove they’d done it – and maybe a few thinking about Sidmouth Running Club’s Beginners Course starting on May 2nd.

A big thank you to all the Club members who helped out. For the Beginners Course information, please phone 01395 578436.

THE GRIZZLY

BY: The Apache Tramp

Honeybees buzzed around the floral displays on the competitors congested Seaton Seafront. Warm ochre rays of sunshine peeped through dispersing blue clouds to melt between an excited crowd of eager runners. The tranquility coaxed them into a sense of false security of "All's well" when in fact the exhaustive heat would soon make sinewed bodies sweat, blisters bubble & burst and cramp will shock even the supplest of legs. The Grizzly was only minutes from the start time and I was glad as hell not to be running it. I was on a mission to photograph, coax & cajole the runners with more enthusiasm than a dog on heat and to hurl plenty of abuse at those who floundered...........they love me really!

The town crier gave the speech, the claxon sounded and the runners cheered. I knew something they didn’t.....'All hell was about to be unleashed!" To witness 2000 runners is quite a spectacle. All individuals, some dressed to perfection, some rough and ready, some representing their local prestigious running clubs, others the 'Idiot Club', some run for charity and some for fame and glory, but all run with pride.

Sidmouth had a strong contingent of runners. Our elite team were definitely running to impress. Justin "The Greyhound' Ashby was dressed for summer adorning a kinky scarlet T shirt under his green SRC vest. Always smiling he settled down to a good rhythm and as his muscles tightened and his face became gaunt it was evident he meant business! Milan Goc seemed to be concentrating despite his beaming smile whilst ploughing through knee deep mud, was definitely planning a late stage attack. He has an extremely recognisable gait and again his giraffe like legs propelled him forward at a hurtling pace, fortunately at the most crucial stage of the competition. Initially he was happy to lollop along in the late 20's.The 'Arrow', Mateusz Szala, complete with his rappers black reversed cap, soon got frustrated at being in the 20's and cruised in 18th at the 8 mile marker. Always professional in his attitude and  is not afraid to race from the front. He looked at ease, relaxed yet ready for a scrap !

Many other recognisable faces were seen in the mele. Mark Badcock gave a very good account by pushing his large frame around the gruelling course with guts and strength. Chris robinson, Chris Long, Helen Palmer, Julia King-Keast, banana munching Debbie Marriott, Don Cawthera, Naomi Garrick (without wedding dress), Sara Watkins, Ian Walker, Bev Tarry, Dave Hedges, Lynda Hawkins, Corrina Stephens, all competed over one of the two courses. Nick Smith was noteable finishing in 65th place and a superb time of 2.58.20. Chris Hargreaves ran creditably for a first attempt and his slim physique retained a good level of fitness from his famous footballing career. He's currently collecting for a sporting charity in his shop at 'The Sports Republic'. Clare Ashby again attacked the cub run with determination accompanied by her friend,Cath Miller. John Perratt sprinted around the cub run in 1.30 and returned to concentrate on a dry humoured commentary which is always appreciated by the exhausted runners ! A quick mention to 'Magic', all the way from Poland Land, but been a Sidmouth Chef for many years now, and ran very well for a first attempt finishing in a very good 2.55.11 in 51st place........recruit him ! I did notice a youthful Terry Bewes with an immaculately clean vest on (all badges in place), water pipes attached. I picked him out with ease as the diamonds were shining in the sunlight. He passed me on the initial beach with a smile and the 'thumbs up ' stance exclaiming:
            "Are you gonna watch me at the finish?"
              “I have'nt come in my overnight campervan" came my reply !
John Keast ran with Dr Joe Kent. They sauntered past and usually John gives friendly abuse or the flashing of his buttocks, but today he had a rather buxom lady from Benfleet up his jacksy so he refrained !

I stood patiently with the SRC media and support team (Apachetramp, Scott Hill, Guy Bennett and Lesley Roberts) by the 8 mile marker at Berry Barton campsite. The jungle drums had reported that the front runner was already 4 minutes in front of the second, a staggering performance,.....hells bells, we needed to stop him ! My mind worked feverishly to hatch a cunning plan........I was desperate for a piddle, so I widdled across the dusty pathway twice, forming a line which was cursed! We waited in the baking heat and we crossed our fingers in hope that the curse would slow him down! We waited, and waited and beads of perspiration formed on my brow, my eye twitched and suddenly he appeared........he was absolutely motoring and only a head on collision with a raging bull would slow him.......closer and closer he came to the line......feverishly he paced on the dusty track ,and the air stirred against our cheeks as we all stood flat against the hedgerow, closerand closer......our eyes were out on stalks, my lip quivered as he rushed past like a burning meteorite in the night sky.......hell he was absolutely motoring along........and then we held our breath as he crossed the pee line...........he was still motoring !!!!!!

Eventually the other runners passed and first came 'The Arrow' in 18th cruising and happy. Justin was content in 21st spot and Milan in 25th,'Magic'in 60th passed in an excitable mood smiling and exclaiming,"I'm sweating like mad"(I hope he's got anti-rash cream on!). We rushed to the Weston car park at 11 miles.

I shouted to the waiting crowd as Milan passed by, saying that, "He was all the way from the Czech Republic and was a famous runner"  The 30 onlookers got to their feet shouting and clapping as I revved them up. An old boy  with walking sticks croaked and clapped, young girls screamed, puppy dogs yapped and  an excitable crescendo echoed around the lazy Weston village all in the name of Czechoslovakia !
                                                                                                                                                    "Yes folks, all the way just for this race,he's brilliant....go, go, go!" For a few seconds even Milan thought he was an Olympic athlete like me ! As he reached the junction I reminded him that he should turn right ! I know he was inspired because by the mud at 15 miles he was still smirking about his new found fame and the inspiration had propelled him closer to 'The Greyhound' who was into 15th. The 'arrow' was into 14th,but looking uncomfortable. It was clear that the boys were extremely focused and now, it was not about race positions, but club competitiveness was evolving between these 3 Sidmouth Sporting Heroes.

The support team continued to shout, scream and kick butts. “You 'aint got time to smile Milan!"  "No cheating boys"  "Don’t be a nance and get stuck in !"  "Bypass that sheep Justin"

Between 15 miles and the finish was for us a bit of a mystery. Waiting anxiously on the line we predicted that just possibly, due only to longer distance training, that Justin would be first of the three home. Afterwards by his own admission, he was,
 “Very excited and relieved to overtake "The Arrow", but within 30 seconds, Milan cruised pass us both apparently on autopilot, and even ran the hill out of Branscombe!"

Sadly, "The Arrow" was cramping badly and it is at times like this that only sheer guts gets you home. A competitive spirit, honour and determination propelled him homeward. Milan however relished the whole event. He came from behind and definitely saved his best until last......."Them good old Serengeti giraffe like legs" took this strong athlete into a super 12th position in 2.40.58. The focus upon his face entering the home straight was like that of an olympic 100m finalist and his physique looked pumped and biceps rippling as he powered to the roar of a clapping crowd to the finish banner.

Justin came in 16th in 2.43.35. His smile had turned to a fixed gaze as his punishing training regime makes his face look gaunt and grey. Make no mistake, this half man half greyhound is a force to be reckoned with. It is sad to see such an athlete as "The Arrow" to whince and stagger in the final 800m,which normally would be his finishing forte distance, due to a cramping pain. He  retains the respect from those, who on this occasion beat him as they all know there will be other occasions, but today, it was 3rd home for SRC, not bad over 20 miles considering his career best was 800m track.

 'Magic' finished in a jovial mood, clapping himself all the way down the home straight happy as a Polish folk dancer! 

Well, we waited and watched good finishes by Nick Smith, Naomi , Chris Hargreaves and Mark Badcock. The rest of the SRC members were obviously running well at their chosen pace, but it was nearly dark and we had to go home!

                                                                                                               Apachetramp.

P.S.
Do'nt forget to check out   www.jamespyne.co.uk      to see the photos Big Jim & Mrs Baldrick took of you. He is the official photographer, so support him.

THE GRIZZLY!
“Every Hill has a Silver Lining.” That was the theme of this year’s Grizzly, the 25th running of what is generally recognised as one of the best (and toughest) races in the country.  Every year Axe Valley Runners put on a great show but this year surely must have been one of their finest.

Perhaps the brilliant spring weather had something to do with it but right from the moment that the Seaton Town Crier welcomed the runners and got them underway until the last runner finished six hours later the whole town and surrounding countryside was taken over by the event. 

The course is changed regularly but improvements to the start and finish on Sunday were particularly welcomed by runners and spectators alike.  Instead of turning straight on to the beach at the start we had an easy warm up along the Esplanade before coming back on the beach and climbing up the hill on the way to Beer.  That is an impressive sight as well over 2000 runners set out on their day’s work.

Then on the way back the route came down the hill on the road towards the Finish just past the Hook and Parrot so that spectators gathered around the finish could see them coming from a greater distance.  It also meant that we could finish in fine style with something resembling a sprint instead of the half mile energy sapping stretch on the pebbles to which we have become accustomed over the last 24 years.

Our club entries were a bit down but there were some stellar performance from our members especially from three of them vying to be the first Sidmouth runner home. Milan Goc appeared to be hanging back for much of the way but on the last stretch from Branscombe wound it up and moved up plenty places to finish in 12th position in 2 hours 40 minutes with Justin Ashby (16th) a mere 2 ½ minutes behind him. Over such a distance that is really close.  The third musketeer, Mateusz Szala, unfortunately aggravated a calf injury and lost touch with them towards the end, hobbling over the line in a still very respectable 2.50.22.
Naomi Garrick, this time in conventional running gear, was our top lady with an impressive 3.19.10 but I daresay that Nic Smith - on his home turf and with a couple of sub 3 hour times under his belt - may be a little disappointed with his 4.13.48. Virginia Bell and Ashley Broughton on the other hand who finished around half a minute ahead of him will be very happy with their times.

Anyone finishing after the 4 hour 30 mark deserves the greatest respect because even with all the support throughout the day it is still a massive achievement to finish. John Keast refuses to give up and accompanied by Joe Kent  clocked up 4.36.48 five minutes ahead of the age-less Bev Tarry warming up for yet another ultra distance event.  Julia King-Keast was next in on 4.46.43 looking unbelievably fresh as a daisy as was Lynda Hawkins four minutes later.  Debbie and Don (Cagney and Lacey) squeezed in under the 5 hours with just Corinna Stephens, Helen Palmer and Terry Bewes to come.  Corinna, warming up for back marker duties on the Exe to Axe romped home in 5.25.24 whilst Helen and Terry were very relaxed abut the whole thing and stopped the clock on 5 and a half hours.

Close to 500 runners took the easier option of the 9 mile Cub run. Amongst those wise people were John Perratt, David Hedges, Claire Ashby, Cathy Miller, Sarah Watkins and this week they are not feeling so stiff and sore.

THE JOLLY GREEN GIANT by Gareth Horrocks

The Green Man Ultra (in its first year) is a 48 mile ultra marathon mainly following a community forest path which takes you around the city of Bristol in one big loop.

The race shows a different side of Bristol with some beautiful views over lakes, through parks full of deer and past Ashton Court Mansion. It carries on to take in muddy hills, lots of fields, along rivers, over railways, lots of footbridges and kissing gates (trust me, these are hard to get your legs over after 40 miles) and the race ends with a lovely run over Clifton suspension bridge and back to the Redwood Country Club where it all started.

Legend has it that the Green Man decides the good or bad fortunes of all who take on the course so He obviously decided today was a good day because it was mostly sunshine with only one small patch of hailstones. The race is self sufficient so all competitors are required to carry all their needs with them, there were four check points offering refills of water and nibbles and boy did each one seem further and further apart.

Bideford Half Marathon
‘The Swift Half’  - by Helen Palmer

A small contingent of Sidmouth runners travelled up to Bideford last Sunday for this popular half marathon. We were told at the start that there were 1,250 runners lining up – many no doubt hoping to use the scenic flattish course to gain a PB or some much needed road miles and a check on their form as part of their London marathon preparations.

The weather was decidedly miserable when folk left Sidmouth early and there were some wondering why on earth they weren’t having a cosy Sunday lie in. But as North Devon beckoned the rain eased, blue sky was spotted and then thankfully the sun came out.  The course starts on the wharf by the river Torridge in Bideford and there was plenty of parking, a well laid out start and even some pipers to cheer us on our way (though they did look a little chilly in their kilts !). 

The route itself takes runners out along the river up to Great Torridge along country roads which were mainly closed to traffic. It then brings runners back to Bideford along the Tarka trail, the disused railway line, which even comes with a tunnel to run through.  There were plenty of marshals and water stops along the route and people out for a Sunday walk cheering on runners. This made it a lovely race and it is no wonder that it is so popular with runners returning each year.

A brief hail shower and a brisk head wind made their presence felt on the return leg but that did not seem to affect the performance of the Sidmouth runners and instead of Tarka the Otter being spotted there were a number of PB’s seen.  Cathy Keast in her first ever half marathon came in at 1.49.04 well in the top half and it would have been quicker if her calf had not seized up at 12  ½ miles (fingers crossed for a recovery for London as her predicted time would see her well under 4 hours !)

Phil Welsford who was bemoaning a lack of miles in his training was the first Sidmouth runner home in 1.39.21 which put him 270th.  And Lesley Roberts was just behind at 1.40.47.  Helen Palmer was pleased to get a PB at 1.54.22, closely followed by Lynda Hawkins 1.56.45.  Mick Allen, ever the youthful, came in under the two hour mark at 1.59.31 and was very pleased with his time. Finally Anne Langworthy who overcame a dodgy stomach gained a very creditable 2.16.47 (and lost 2 ½ lbs in the process).

The Pewsey Terminator by Justin

Husband and wife team Justin and Claire Ashby were staying ‘up country’ in Wiltshire for the weekend and entered the Pewsey Terminator off-roader, an 11 mile slog up and over Pewsey Vale. Several times.

Up until a few years ago, the race was rather blandly called ‘The Pewsey Vale Cross Country Challenge’ and attracted only the most local and committed runners. However, a few years ago the organisers added one swamp, one river and two extra hills and rebranded the race to ‘The Pewsey Terminator’. It now attracts several hundred runners each year.*

The runners gathered at Pewsey College which was to be race HQ for the day. The atmosphere was fantastic and the weather stunning – a crisp, frosty start followed by warm sunshine.

A cursory glance at the OS map the day before suggested the ridge that we would be ascending was going to be somewhat steep. Furthermore, runners would be sent up and then down this ridge, not once but four times! But then no hill can scare a runner from the Sid Valley, can it?

As it happened, the first 4 or so miles were flat, for the most part hugging the serene Kennet & Avon Canal. Justin tried to keep in touch with the leading pack (not entirely successfully) and the first half hour turned into an off-road tempo run, interrupted only by what is known in Pewsey parlance as ‘Wildebeest Leap’, a stream too wide to jump and a massive bog the other side – perfect Grizzly training!

The off-road shoes were rather heavy with extra layers of mud for the next few hundred metres and then the climbing started as Pewsey Ridge opened before us. After a mile or so of undulations we then hit the ridge, and I mean hit it as it was effectively a grass wall. Ropes were provided to haul ourselves up the initial section and then it was a scramble to the top. Not a long hill but vicious nonetheless and, as always, it’s returning to a running stride at the top that hurts the most. 

The next mile or so was then a beautiful stretch along the ridge with fantastic views of the Wiltshire Downs to the north and south – very enjoyable I’m sure if you are out for a gentle walk. Unfortunately what goes up must come down and before long we were hurtling down into the vale knowing that we had to scale the ridge again three more times!

Hill two was another hard scramble but nothing compared to hill three which loomed unpleasantly in the distance, casting a shadow over the approaching, whimpering runners. However, a couple of places were gained here for Justin thanks to his ‘Sid Valley Legs’ (“lean & mean” says Justin; “chicken drumsticks” says Claire). Another fun stretch of hurtling back down the ridge soon followed and just one more climb to go. Thankfully there was lots of support on this last hill, cheering us on to the summit. All four limbs were employed to reach the top and then another blast downhill towards the welcome sight of Pewsey.

Still, the race was not yet done. The village seemed so close from the top of the ridge but it must have been another mile and a half of hard running and then we were directed through another thigh-high stream which cleaned the trainers off but left the legs feeling distinctly heavy for the next few strides. At last, the rugby posts of the college playing fields came into view and a great throng of spectators cheered the muddy, exhausted runners home.

The post-race atmosphere was relaxed and good-humoured with plenty of splendid cakes on offer. Justin returned to the college fields to cheer other runners home including a very red-faced Mrs Ashby. The abiding image of this race though was the chap who came in wearing a previously-white t-shirt who was now brown from the neck-down!

This is a great race.

Claire’s time was just over 2 hours and whilst she was very cross about missing the 2 hour deadline, her time was still good enough to finish halfway up the field of over 600 runners and just outside the Female Top 30. Justin came home in 15th place in a time of 1:25 and won 3rd place Vet.

*Rumours that the Four Trigs is to be re-named ‘The Sid Valley Stinger’ are entirely unfounded.

FOUR TRIGS - The Apachetramp's Personal View 

It is with thanks and with great enthusiasm of the charitable minds of Nick and Helen Keast that once again we have decided to put ourselves through 18 miles of absolute misery!  As local runner endeavour to run the gauntlet of mud, frost and ice and hills that even a yodelling Swiss mountain goat would struggle up, YES!! The Four Trigs, seems to tempt all ages and abilities.  No one seems quite sure why.  Perhaps it’s the glory of finishing virtually alone on the wet promenade of a cheering crowd of about 5 !! Maybe it’s the mighty fine and magnificent Haymans pasty most dream about half way around the course.  In truth, the real reason is to say “I did it” and those simple three words seems suffice to quench most runners appetite for guts and glory.

Lining up on the start point in front of the sailing club we listen to Nick give his traditional speech of advice which is responded to by a cacophony of grunts, whistles and yahoo’s as the 100 strong competitors cheer with a frisky gung-ho attitude which will soon be quashed as Peak Hill arrives. “Go” and we all speed off along the hard promenade tarmac, our new off roaders feel cushion soft with a spring in our step we are smiling as we pass a group of school children singing “Ging Gang Ghoolie” and even Guy Bennett waves us on as he’s arrived to assist the lifeboat on an emergency shout to rescue a dog on the cliff.  It’s onto the Peak Hill climb and we are silent apart from the odd muttering and rhythms of heavy breathing.

Muttersmoor is a carpet of thick mud with spasms of ice patches.  The virgin grip on our new shoes should do the trick but it does not, and caution under foot was the concern in such conditions.  Graham Hill is a legend how can a man run so well simply by chasing sheep for a living? Justin manages to break his record, and Milan makes good use of his Giraffe like style, with a creditable 5th place. 

I spent the first 2 ½ Trigs looking at Jess’ derriere as she skipped along in front of me like a spring lamb frolicking in the meadow, she was first lady home and proudly collected a bottle of vino for her efforts.  Nige the Matelot, Dr Jo, who bravely competed with an injured arm wrapped in cling film ran with the Robson's, Sarah Watkins, Lesley, Linda and the dogs.  As the race progressed the running groups became more obvious and despite the constant concern of “where’s Poddy”, and “Is Keastie Ok” the core of the runners raced enthusiastically.  Terry Bewes was his usual jovial self and it wasn’t hard to spot his location, not only was he dressed head to toe in the latest designer gear with all the survival appliances attached to his fluorescent clad torso, but as the winter sun shone bright in the valleys, his diamond earrings reflected the golden sunshine like a sat-nav system.  Lesley Roberts despite investing in some super-duper grip Sauncony’s managed to fall in a pothole. 

Personally, I had, had enough at the Buckton 3rd Trig but continued to compete with great regret, I know I had to live up to my name “Crash” and that’s exactly what I did !! At Weston I could hear Naomi’s constant chatter and Uncle Phil and the Badcock boys were desperately trying to increase their pace in order to escape it!  This rather unorthodox method of coaxing oneself along seemed to work and their quickening tempo seemed to arrive on my heels.  “Are you alright Crash” Naomi remarked with a smile. Despite the encouragement from George Chalstrey 4 miles back, and my water intake from the Sidbury village stream, I knew I was fast deteriorating, beads of perspiration formed into rivulets that cascaded off my nose, sweaty salt crystals stung my eyes and my body ached so much I felt I’d been steamrolled by an English Prop Forward.  I was plodding with my head to one side and my new off-roaders had as much grip as a sheet of glass “I’m fine thanks” came my reply as the whole group passed me like a herd of migrating wildebeest on the Serengeti. NO, not even the out of date gel pack could keep me competitive, at Weston Beach I was stoned with pebbles by a group of children encouraged by their parents in order to rejuvenate me, on the grassy hill I fell over, yet again, and realised I was getting old as everyone rushed to help me up!!
When I was eventually overtaken by Sunday ramblers with Choo-Choo the terrier, I knew my Olympic dreams where over, all I need now was Eyebrows Billy Boy to overtake me, PHEW!!! He wasn’t in the race!!

I sat on the final steps leading out of the Salcombe Valley and looked back to the cliffs and sea, we are so lucky I thought to have such natural beauty, the pain was worth the moment, my mind was already on the pasty, Neil’s cakes and the evening curry.  A sweetened saliva flowed like honey down my throat!!! “This race isn’t over yet” I shouted aloud, jumping to my feet, for a moment or two I thought “I can run, I can run”!! But in truth I couldn’t!!

Descending though the wood at the top of Salcombe Hill to Sidmouth, I was delighted to see Mateusz, The Arrow, Sidmouth’s secret weapon, sadly out of action due to injury, he had mountain biked up to offer encouragement, as he hopped off his bike to take a photo, the encouragement worked and I seized the moment, and the bike!! And took off freewheeling back to the finish with The Arrow running behind, when you know your beat, cheat!!

As runners trickled back I saw Clare Ashby happy and smiles with rosy cheeks, she was delighted as competing and respectful to her husband’s PB of 2.22.  Rob Dunford finished alone, Terry gave a wave and Kathy Keast was keen for her hot cup of tea, it all appeared very successful, but where was Mark?

Oh dear, he finished by being propped up by fellow runners as he kept passing out, due to dehydration, ushered upstairs he was placed in the back room where the Ambulance Crew was called to assist.  Everyone was concerned as they couldn’t get to the Pasty’s as the St John’s administered First Aid on him.  He lay there totally dehydrated and exhausted, “Do you want my Grizzly Ticket Crash” he murmured “Quiet now Mark, drink and dehydrate” “I’ll do that in the pub tonight” he gasped.

Traditionally, the night of the race we eat our and savour the delights of India (the only place you can run faster than a train) the mood is always jovial, and reminiscing of the days events is light-hearted banter, Mark turned up, fresh faced, smiling and wearing one of his lovely jumpers, from his winter collection.  He wasted no time in dehydrating!!  My hiccups were cured by Lesley’s tip to drink like a cat, which worked, Jo had redressed his bandage on the injured arm, Clare was, for whatever reason, threatening to sell her wedding dress on ebay!! Naomi was planning her assault on the London Marathon, when she will try to break a world record, by wearing her wedding dress and veil.  So if you see her practicing through the street in it, she’s not late for her wedding, it’s just a case of
“All’s Normal in the Town”.

ApacheTramp
February 2012

THE HESTERCOMBE HUMDINGER
It is rare to see a really tight finish at a 10 mile race but this event had one to savour.  The last 400 metres to the finish line are up a slope and as the leaders came into sight there was a group of three, tightly bunched and, amongst them, spectators gathered around the finish funnel could see the green vest of Laurence Bolam. It is not for nothing that Laurence winds up the treadmill at the Sidmouth Sports Centre and his final sprint caught the other two unawares as he streaked home to take first place in a great time of 56 minutes 49 seconds.  The first 3 finished within seconds of each other. That was how close it was.

Not so far away in 9th place was the second Sidmouth Runner, Milan Goc, just a few seconds over the hour in 60.06. Both Laurence and Milan have got the London Marathon in their sights and at this stage of their build up they are both geared up for PBs on the big day.

The race is based on Hestercombe Gardens just outside of Taunton and the setting plus the quietly efficient organisation makes it a very popular event as evidenced by the closure of entries several weeks before. The course though is tough and more than a few contestants were spotted taking a sneaky walk up some of the steeper slopes. In contrast the nip in the air helped to keep everyone moving. John Podmore and Corinna Stephens both ran well and finished close together round the 90 minute mark but both of them were much more excited about Laurence’s victory. That is what the Club is all about.

For any runners disappointed at not getting a place in this weekend’s Four Trigs race there are still places in the Fulford 5 - an on road 5 miler around Exmouth on Sunday morning.

ANY WHICH WAY! .......... Axe Valley Runners can always come up with something different even when they have borrowed the initial idea. Last weekend they staged their Any Which Way Run which is a sort of Treasure Hunt copying the ‘find your own way’ formula so successful in our own Four Trigs.

Starting from their Club HQ in Seaton runners had to make their way to 8 checkpoints scattered round the East Devon countryside and come back with the answers to questions about features on those checkpoints. Instead however of starting at the advertised time runners were allowed to set off as soon as they were ready and could run the course either way round. This made the timekeeping a bit hit and miss but added to the fun as small groups of runners could be seen at various times going in all sorts of different directions.

There were two options a shorter 9 miler and then an alleged 14 mile course. Investigations after the race based on GPS reports however revealed that the average distance on the short course was 10 miles and on the longer one it varied from 13 to 17. The time allocated on the result sheet therefore does not mean a lot except to show that some people spent an awful long time on their feet that day.

Quickest of our team was Nic Smith who knows the area well and came back in just over 2 ½ hours. Following him at 3 hours 40 minutes was John Keast according to the results but no one can actually recall seeing him on the day. Bev Tarry also sneaked in unnoticed under 4 hours, which was a good solo effort. Lynda Hawkins and Lesley Roberts took their dogs with them, more we suspect as navigation aids, but somehow managed to get all the answers to the questions finishing about a quarter of an hour after Bev. John Perratt escorted them for the first part of their journey before ducking out on to the shorter route leaving them to their own devices.

The quartet of Cathy Keast, Suzanne Rampersad, Debbie Marriott and Don Cawthera appeared to know where they were going but this turned out to be something of an illusion and they were ultimately tracked down by the steady pair of Helen Palmer and Terry Bewes. By this time nearly five hours had elapsed, most of the other runners had gone home but there were still plenty of pasties and cakes left for them. The weather was mild, the countryside looked its best, the company was good, there was not the pressure of a race - what better way to spend a Sunday morning.

OH, MY OBELISK!
By Brian Gosling
I was the sole Sidmouth representative at the ‘Oh My Obelisk!’ race at Dawlish on Sunday. At eleven miles this was my first long race after coming back from injury and the aim was to make it back in under two hours. This, I just managed to do this and the knee held up although it was creaking quite a bit in the evening!
The course is challenging, especially the climb to the Obelisk on Haldon Hill but the noticeable difference this year was a biting wind making it particularly unpleasant for the marshals and spectators. For the runners, this was more than off-set by continuous sunshine and the views from the Obelisk could be enjoyed for once rather than be hidden in mist. The promise of a lovely warm shower at the finish was more than enough to spur the competitors on the homeward route. The race as usual was superbly organised by the Dawlish Coasters.
In the results of the First Chance 10k last week we omitted to mention that Jess Watkins is also making a comeback and to celebrate her last race as a singleton she clocked up a very impressive 40.59 only a few seconds slower than her PB of two years ago. We look forward to seeing her improve on that in her new guise after her marriage last weekend. Congratulations, Jess, on both counts.
Continuing that theme, rumour has it that one of our lady runners is planning to run the London Marathon in a full length wedding dress. Do we see a Guinness World Record coming this way!

FIRST OF THE YEAR.
The First Chance 10k has, over the years, become a ‘must’ for all local runners wishing to rise above the excesses of the festive season. Unfortunately it has also been a victim of its own success because the demand for the 500 places on offer were all snapped up early in December, leaving many of us to kick our heels last weekend on a day perfect for running.

The well established route is along the Exeter Canal and we hear that the move of the Race Headquarters to the Climbing Centre close to the finish line on the Piazza was a big improvement over the previous facilities on offer.  Chip timing also meant that the results this year were available more quickly and these included a fair sprinkling of Sidmouth runners who managed to get a place. Happiest of these were probably Anne Langworthy and Louise Brown who started together, ran step by step all the way and finished together in a time of 59.10 well inside their targeted one hour mark.  Unhappiest by way of contrast was Laurence Bolam, who despite a brilliant time of 34.28 (another club record) had to settle for 4th place overall albeit in a high quality field.

The surprise of the day was to see Terry Bewes listed with a time of 44.46 but closer investigation revealed that it was in fact Paul Mitchell who had snapped up Terry’s number on hearing of his unavailability. Well done Paul and thanks also to Terry for not letting his number go to waste.  

Adrian Organ, after a long lay off with Achilles problems, romped around in 45.55 but there were perhaps a few ominous signs that the injury had not completely healed.  Unrestrained by such problems, Sarah Brown showed that her improvement still continues and was well pleased with her time of 49.30. The usual solid performances from Milan Goc 37.50, Jess Watkins 40.59, Aaron Smith 42.46, new Granddad Colin Flood 47.29, Becky Robson 49.42 (again under 50 minutes), Mick Allen 51.30 and Sarah Watkins 51.37 completed our interest in the race.

With nothing better to do, a few of us went to have a look at the new Tesco’s in Seaton and on the way came upon the Axmouth Challenge, a nice little 10 miler based on the Axmouth Village Hall. Even more tempting was a 5 miler run at the same time.  The route could have done without the climb up to the Axe Cliff Golf Course but after that it was pleasant enough.  Cathy Keast, Debbie Marriott and Suzanne Rampersad were in good spirits all the way round keeping Don Cawthera a discreet distance ahead of them so as to boost his morale and to ensure that he was not party to their conversation. His time was 1.30.38 for the 10 miles and the girls finished together on 1.38.25. Byron Fitzgerald (48.42), John Perratt (49.16) and Brian Gosling (51.07) went for the softer option.

Brian gets into the spirit of Boxing Day after our run, in the more refined atmosphere of Budleigh Beach!

The Wellington Monument Race by Colin Flood  The Wellington Monument 10k Race is traditionally the last race before Christmas, but the festival had started early for Sidmouth Running Club, with seasonal bugs, hangovers and over indulgence all taking their toll.

 In fact, only 3 club members joined the 150-odd competitors on the start line in Hemyock. The course couldn’t be simpler, you run uphill from the bottom of the valley for 2 and a half miles, dive off into the woods, round the monument, and then run all the way back down again. For some reason, the second half of the race is more popular than the first.

 The race has had to be cancelled for the last 2 years due to snow, but the weather was perfect on Sunday as Colin Flood (51.03) was first Sidmouth runner home – and that’s the first time that’s been written.  John’pit-stop’ Podmore wasn’t far behind, and would have been closer still had he not had to stop for a, well, a pit-stop. Meanwhile, towards the back of the field, runners were strung out a bit and rounding a corner in the village, Louise Brown saw no-one ahead of her and took a wrong turning - what’s called a Bill Valentine moment. On the plus side, she still came in ahead of Harry Moore.

 Going home, and despite having 3 GPS’s between them and a fourth in the car, the trio still managed to take the wrong turning out of the village and enjoyed a tour of inland Devon before finding their way back to Sidmouth. It was that sort of day.

REINDEER RUN

RESULTS

10K

FUN RUN

Reindeers Run Again !!!!
By Jim Pyne
A pre-race calm settled throughout Otterton Village like the ominous sky that threatened the race with precipitation.  Seagulls circling in the sky above warned of inclement weather and true to form a scrawly winter shower dampened Reindeer Runners as they scurried for cover.

A request for runners to be decked out in fancy dress proved particularly popular with Reindeer and Fun runners and the standard of costume design exemplary this year. A shout out for Father Christmas to start the run seemed frivolous as there were so many Father Christmases present !!!!  However on making his way to the start line Big Jim located the officially appointed Father Christmas Race Starter. Runners edged towards the start line by Otterton Church in an orderly manner and were counted down from 3 with Father Christmas ringing the school playground bell to start the 10k and Fun Runners alike.  A sea of Christmassy bods flowed by in a blur of Santa costumes, elves, Christmas trees and tinsel!

As the stopwatch ticked by overcast skies gave way to patches of blue and then the Sun graced us with it's presence for the duration of the Run. Ground conditions under foot were indeed a mixed bag with tracks being muddy in places, slippery elsewhere and good in others.  This year there were no sight seeing front runners on the 10k run and the course appeared to be well signed and taped.  All runners returned safely to the Village Green serenaded back to the finish by Dave and his son Isaac who was dressed as a "mini" Father Christmas as they played festive saxy tunes !

Runners retired to Otterton Village Hall where they were treated to a charge of mulled wine in their souvenir Reindeer Run mugs and a mince pie kindly provided by Stewart Hayman of Haymans Butchers, Sidmouth. Race organisers Jim and Jeanette Pyne conferred the very generous prizes and awards this year kindly sponsored by the ever growing list of local businesses and supporters involved.

Laurence Bolam of Sidmouth RC was the first 10k runner home and clearly ran his own race from the outset finishing on the Green in a highly commendable time of 37:04 minutes.  Not so far behind, also from Sidmouth Running Club was former Reindeer Run Organiser Graham Hill who put in a very respectable time of 37:44 minutes given the somewhat varied ground conditions under foot.

The First lady home to the Green in 42:26 minutes was Lucy Commander of South West Road Runners and the Vet Male and 1st Local Man prizes were won by Graham Hill with the Vet Lady prize being claimed by Jo Mackenzie of Colaton Crazies and the 1st Local Lady was Otterton resident, Judith Constable. The married couple prize, a meal for two at Otterton Mill was won by John and Lorraine Croome running for Exmouth Harriers. The Mens Team prizes were won by Laurence Bolan, Graham Hill and Justin Ashby representing Sidmouth Running Club and the Ladies prize went to Exmouth Harriers.

And all that remains as a reminder to a fantastic day is the odd bit of tinsel, silver star and the myriad of Reindeer runner footsteps leading back to Otterton Village Green.

All is quiet once more until .................... the 1st December 2012 when the Reindeer Runners will return !

THE BICTON BLISTER The Bicton Blister is a bit of an institution so that we see some runners who only enter a race once or twice a year but they really like this one. At just under 11 miles over rugged terrain it is a good challenge for all of the 500 plus entries even in the relatively mild weather on the day. Some will be starting off on their marathon training, some will be looking for a PB having carefully researched their time for last year, others want to get a head start on their New Year Resolutions and the rest just like running around Woodbury Common.

The quick boys went off at a fast pace and we were delighted to have 5 runners in the top 25. Laurence Bolam was 5 th in a time of 1.06.12 closely followed by Graham Hill 12 th, Justin Ashby 16 th, Milan Goc ,fresh after last week’s Cornish Marathon, in 22 nd place and newcomer Nic Smith from Branscombe, showing that his win at Yarcombe was no fluke, 25 th. What a team that is!

Our top girls also performed well with new Mum, Jessica Watkins, and old Mum, Jane Beech, coming in 9 th and 10 th Lady respectively and beating all the other Sidmouth men. In fact, including the Bicton Lite 4.5, miler there were 40 of us taking part in the event. It is impossible to mention every one but one or two performances stood out. Ian Walker is now back in his stride and Paul Bowler has discovered that hashing has benefits other than running around in the dark. Both finished in just over 90 minutes.

Cathy Keast, Suzanne Rampersad and Becky Robson, all with their sights on London, clocked in around 1.40 which gives them a good bench mark from which to work and only a minute or so back from them were Claire Ashby and Cathy Miller. Claire (wife of Justin) and Cathy never run at the club on a Wednesday but with that sort of time they must be putting in some quality mileage somewhere. Others that we haven’t seen for a long time included Kate Stamp, Libby Jarrett, David Welsh and Julia King Keast who, it must be said, looked fresher than those that finished before them - excluding David that is. He sat down at the end and refused to get up again for some time.

The Lite is a very pleasant option for those who want to avoid the muddy bits and young Charlie Smith, the youngest runner in the race, showed us that his dad, Nic, is not the only quick runner in the family by coming in a very creditable 8 th in a great time for his age of 36.22. Sarah Brown let her hair down for the race, literally, and crossed the line looking like Cheryl Cole some distance ahead of Brian Gosling and Bill Valentine who, in contrast, was having a bad hair day. Taking a more relaxed view of the proceedings Corinna Stephens, Louise Brown and Lesley Hook waltzed in without a care in the world. That’s the way to do it.

Castle Drogo
 by Colin Flood

  Castle Drogo must be one of the most dramatic venues for a race in Devon, which is probably why it always draws a big field, 500 this year, as well as an enthusiastic group from Sidmouth.  10 miles of rough track through stunning scenery interspersed by a few equally stunning hills, sorts the men from the boys. But at 23, it was young Aaron Smith (1h25m53s) in 145th place who again led the local pack home.

 Following in Aaron’s wake came two relatively ‘young guns’, Graham Stout(1.26.38) and Philip Welsford(1.26.49), while George Chalstrey(1.31.30), Ian Walker(1.32.42) and Colin Flood(1.34.41) finished within a few minutes of each other.

 Next, in the second half of the field, was Sarah Brown who was mighty pleased with her time of 1.49.07. Terry Bewes (1.52.19) and John Podmore (1.52.36) chatted their way round together, followed by Louise Brown (2.08.48) and Helen Palmer, whose official time was given as over a minute later. This is a mistake, because I distinctly saw them cross the line together, Helen bravely continuing after taking a nasty tumble just after the start.

 All the club’s participants were still at the finish to welcome their last colleagues home, which goes to show the wonderful atmosphere which pervades the club.

And Lesley Roberts writes:

Last Saturday saw another Sidmouth Running Club Social Event - a Guess Your Time run for anyone who fancied a little tour around Core Copse or who fancied clearing their heads after my birthday celebrations the night before. Helping out were John and Cathy Keast who laid the course that morning making a 1.5 mile Short Course and a 4 mile Long.

Before the race I had a Happy Birthday rendition and was presented with a cake from Sidmouth Running Club, thank you guys what a lovely surprise, and thank you Claire Ashby and Naomi Garrick for organising it, also thank you Naomi for my microwavable slippers, just what you need when you’re my age.... enough said!

Running in the Short Course were the little runners, Danni King-Keast, Freddie and Charlie Roberts, Joe and Will Ashby and Ollie Keast who was accompanied by his Dad, Nick. Don Cawthera and Debbie Marriot with little girl all ran together finishing with smiles. Toby and Molly Garrick ran with Dad Mike encouraging them all the way, while her mum Naomi ran In the Long Course and led the way by far, in her usual effortless stride.  Joe and Will were led to believe that the short course was 2 miles long, so their guesses were a long way out, leaving the winning places to Danni, Freddie and Charlie.
John Perratt chased around after Franki King-Keast, who kept her dad, Mark, a stride away with their dog Ted in tow and Bill Valentine, hot on their heels (sort of!!).

A few of us went onto the Hare and Hounds for a Birthday Drink with me and I was also met there by some of my fellow party goers from the night before.  Thank you, guys, for a great Birthday.

The next day 5 members of the Club decided that running wasn’t quite enough so tried a Duathlon in Chippenham on the Castle Combe race track . Sarah Watkins initiated the idea and got together with Becky Robson, Jess Watkins, and Lesley Roberts. Feeling a little left out, Ian Robson decided he would enter on the day and then showed how it is done by lapping us on the bike bit.

It was a ‘Sprint’ duathlon on a traffic free circuit, safe for beginners. Safe that is if you can stay upright on your bike and pedal like the wind. The pre race instructions about the transition were very complicated, “Run in, don’t touch the bike, helmet on, running shoes off, cycling shoes on, bike off rack, run to the line, mount bike, go!” After the ride you then have to do it all again, but backwards. Becky and I panicked all the way round trying to remember all this and it was even more complicated for me because I didn’t have any cycling shoes. What do I do once I have taken my running shoes off - put them on again?

Anyway it turned out OK and we didn’t get disqualified. Ian finished in 56 minutes 16 seconds with new mum, Jess, doing brilliantly to finish in 59.11. I felt like Jelly after the bike ride but with Becky just in front of me at the transition and running strongly we eventually crossed the line more or less together at around 65 minutes. Sarah, the cause of all our pain, was a few minutes later.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK! There are lots of reasons why you should fly to New York for the weekend but none better than to run in the famous New York Marathon. The route passes through all five of the city’s boroughs, names that are familiar to everyone, even those who have never been there: Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan.

Having ticked off a few other big city marathons, Jo Earlam decided that this year it had to be the Big One so off she went to join the other 47,437 starters. It was fantastic, she says, and the most impressive marathon she has done in terms of the sheer scale and excitement of the event. Frustrating at times with so many runners and a few hills and bridges to tackle but she did it and finished well in the top half of the field. Not her best time at 4:18:42 but she was pleased to have averaged better than 10 minute miling on the day and now, back home, it all seems like a dream.

Last week also saw the second of the 3k Winter Series on the track at Exeter and with 6 graded races on the night Sidmouth had runners in all of them. It kicked off with a Mile Race for the under 11s and Flurry Grierson, keeping up the family tradition, was closely followed home by Guy Susevee making an impressive debut. Guy’s older brother Greg is in the U13 category and allowed to compete in the 3 km event but as an unknown was put in the E race, the slowest one. A brilliant time though of 12.42 will ensure that at next month’s event he will be put in a much quicker group. Flurry’s brother Grey (U15), not to be outshone, took an early lead in the B race and won comfortably in a time of 10.49.

Amongst the more mature runners the star of the day was Laurence Bolam who came second in the top A race in a new club record time of 9.20. Laurence is taking this series very seriously and will hopefully improve on that over the next few races. Jane Beech, in contrast, was feeling her way a bit as it was her first time on the track since her schooldays. Her plan is to get in some speed work on the run so as to improve her triathlon performance.  She started off cautiously but gained confidence as the laps ticked by and a storming last lap gained her a few places and a good time of 11.57 just under 4 minute/kilometre pace. John Perratt in 13.14 completed the Sidmouth contingent.

The Templer Ten
by Colin Flood

 ‘What a terrific course’ was the unanimous view of the seven Sidmouth runners who went to Newton Abbot on Sunday for the Templer Ten. The name comes from the Templer family who built a canal and tramway from Haytor to Teignmouth for the export of granite at the end of the eighteenth century. A flat race, then, of just under 10 miles includes some of the old tramway and taking in road, track, field, wood, river and canal; a real multi-terrain course for the 250 starters.
 
John Podmore turned up in road shoes, but fortunately brought a brand new pair of off-roaders with him, and on learning about the course, smartly changed footwear in less time than a Jensen Button pit-stop. Sadly for him, performance-wise, any further comparison with F1 ended right there.

 Graham Hill(6th) led the Sidmouth runners home after only securing a place from a cancellation 10 minutes before the start. When Graham is around, it’s usually a case of who is going to come second, and this time it was Aaron Smith (75th). Aaron’s first allegiance is to football, so not for the first time, he raced less than 24 hours after a gruelling 90 minutes on the pitch playing for Sidbury United.

 Colin Flood (98th) was 3 minutes behind, with Paul Bowler (116th) 3 minutes later. It was good to see him back competing after a car accident and a lay-off of several years, welcome back Paul. Sarah Brown (168th) should be happy with her performance, and Terry Bewes (169th) and John Podmore (170th) followed her in. Terry has come to running later than most, but he’s making up for it now.

It was a great effort by everyone, on a stunning day around a wonderful course. Sidmouth times:  Graham Hill 58.22; Aaron Smith 1.13.32; Colin Flood 1.16.34; Paul Bowler 1.19.27; Sarah Brown 1.26.41; Terry Bewes 1.26.42; John Podmore 1.26.42.

On Saturday the village of Yarcombe played host to a 5 and 10 mile jaunt across the countryside backed up by plenty of eats for the runners as they finished. New member, Nic Smith from Branscombe, was up with the leaders all the way on the longer course and finished up in 1.16.35 for a well deserved second place. Ruth and John Chesters took a break from Orienteering with JKohn doing the 10 miler and Ruth opting for the shorter race along with John Doherty. The nature of the course meant that times were slow for the relative distances but there were no complaints as the fine weather ideally complemented the magnificent views on the way.

A little further down the A303 Milan Goc ran in the Ilminster 10k, a race which he won last year. A time of 37 minutes on this occasion is good for a very hilly course but although marginally slower than his previous effort was good enough for 6th Place.

Bev Tarry and Pam White will of course be amongst them next year but both decided they should try one last weekend. Bev unfortunately chose the wrong year to do the Snowdonia Marathon. It is a full marathon but running up Snowdon will always put a bit on your time. On top of that, though, the weather played a big part - with rain, wind and hailstones for the whole 5 hours and 7 minutes that it took her to complete the course. The route is meant to be one of the most scenic of marathons and so, because she never saw anything through the mist from start to finish, she says that she will have to do it again next year. Some sort of motivation, I suppose.

Pam was a bit luckier and had good weather and a brilliant run in Dresden winning her age group comfortably in a very impressive time of 3 hours 17 minutes. Having had a disappointing run last year in London, this has got her all enthused again.  Also in marathon mode is Jo Earlam who flew off this week for the New York Marathon on Sunday. Those of us who didn’t get a place, or couldn’t be bothered to apply, feel quite exhausted at the thought of all those miles.

Click here for details of the Guess Your Time Run on Saturday 19 November

Racing took a back seat last weekend. George Chalstrey led out the normal endurance training run on Saturday morning, a couple went to the parkrun at Killerton and that was about it.  Behind the scenes though, four of our number went on a Leadership Running Course at Exeter University.  They were put through their paces and, we hear, passed with flying colours. We welcome Sarah Brown, Sandra Kirley, Ann Langworthy and Aaron Smith who have embarked on the first step of their coaching careers and will shortly be leading groups out on Club nights.

November and early December however brings a few races to look forward to with the Castle Drogo, Bicton Blister and the Reindeer Run enough to keep anyone happy. On top of that the Club is staging another ‘Guess the Time Run’ on Saturday 19 November starting at 2.00 from Core Copse. Any one is welcome to come along and take part in what is really a lottery - on foot - but at no charge.

Afterwards we will decamp to the Hare and Hounds for refreshments. For more details phone Lesley Roberts on 577 310

ROUND ROTHERHAM AND THROUGH CARDIFF FOR TOP PERFORMANCES

After a spate of local runs everyone had to go further afield last weekend for a decent race.

Taking it to extremes, as is her wont, Bev Tarry, decided to celebrate he 66th birthday by doing a 50 miler. There aren’t many of them around so it also involved a long overnight trip up North to Rotherham for the 7 o’clock start. The race takes place through trails in the South Yorkshire Forest which is more rural rather than woodland and has its fair share of ups and downs. A target time of 12 hours looked like a real challenge and our Bev missed that by a mere 4 minutes. An incredible achievement but we expect nothing less from her and dread to think what her next target will be. Her family gave up on her a long time ago.

Also slightly deranged is Lesley Roberts who dashed off to Cardiff for her second half marathon in 8 days. Her objective was to get down to a time of 1.40 for the distance and the organisers claim that it is a fast, flat course, ideal for the purpose. It was in fact a bit of a tourist trail as the runners were taken around the Bay and past many historic landmarks. The bridge or barrage by the new BBC Studios in the Bay though exposed the ‘flat’ epithet as a distortion of the facts. Either that or the spirit levels in Wales are different to ours.

A record 15,000 runners took part and had a great reception from the locals despite the earlier disappointing news from New Zealand. Mick Allen, something of a half marathon specialist, also took part and clocked up his standard time of just on the two hour mark. Mick just keeps going and you can almost set your watch by him. Lesley though, to the delight of everyone, got her target time at 1.40.08 for a very good PB but like all runners bemoaned the loss of those 8 seconds. You can never satisfy some of them.

Another significant milestone was achieved by Sandra Kirley who took part in the Dartmoor Vale races. Organised by one of the Rotary clubs they offered a 10k, a Half and a Full Marathon. With bodies everywhere it is difficult to pick out results but Sandra in her first half squeezed under the two hours with a chip time of 1.59.15. Sean Tipton got a mention in the 10k results and we think that we had other people there but can find no evidence in the published results. Sandra however fully deserved her mention.

ROYAL PARKS HALF MARATHON
By Lesley Roberts
More than twelve thousand runners came from across the UK and 30 countries around the world to race through the streets of London last Sunday in the hugely popular Royal Parks Half Marathon and three of them, Lesley Roberts, Becky Robson and Sarah Watkins, travelled up from Sidmouth to take part.

Starting and finishing in Hyde Park, the scenic 13.1 mile route takes you through four of London’s beautiful Royal Parks (Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Green Park and St James’s) and past some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks including Buckingham Palace, The Houses of Parliament, The London Eye and The Royal Albert Hall. Trying to relax and carbo load on the Saturday is easier said than done, when you visit London and I was most upset to find out that Becky and Sarah had found Jimmy Choo, whilst I found Hamleys and a Headache!

Race day in full autumnal splendour had a great atmosphere and feel-good factor for everyone involved. All three of us were up bright and early and raring to go as we met up before the race. Becky who was harbouring an injury ran extremely well up to mile 10 where unfortunately the injury took over and after working so hard to be on target for her sub 1.50 time it was shattering to have to ease off because of the pain. I had the benefit of family support approaching halfway and definitely had a blast of energy hearing my little boys shouting "Come on, Mum!". My only problem was jostling with other runners in some of the narrow sections. Sarah in complete contrast cruised through the race, enjoying the scenery and loving every minute of it. She finished, as she always does, full of smiles.

The three of us really enjoyed the event. It is one of my favourites - flat and on-road. Heading back to the Countryside, we waved London goodbye, but would remember our visit for a long time.

Milan Goc on the same day travelled to Bideford for a 10 miler along the Tarka Trail and came away with 4th place overall. More modestly a group of us went to Cotleigh for the inaugural Cotleigh Canters put on by the Honiton Club. There were 3 races all going on at once over 3, 5 and finally 10 km along the country lanes around the village hall. The races were well supported and we came away with a lot of the honours. Flurry Grierson won the 3k, his brother, Grey, and Lucy Owen came first and second in the 5 whilst Laurence Bolam was second in the 10k followed by a host of also-rans from the Club.

Times: (Parks Half Marathon) Lesley Roberts 1:42; Becky Robson 1:54; Sarah Watkins 1:57; (Bideford 10 mile) Milan Goc 1.00.35; (Cotleigh 10k) Laurence Bolam 35.56; Aaron Smith 45.04; John Perratt 48.24; Colin Flood 48.36; David Palmer 49.44; Deborah Scott 54.54; Sarah Brown 55.21; John Doherty 56.11; Rachel Burrow 60.22; Louise Brown 61.28; (5k) Grey Grierson 19.43; Lucy Owen 20.01; and (3k) Flurry Grierson 13.20