STRIDER NEWS Stowmarket Striders Running Club Newsletter Autumn/Winter 2015 the Golden Mile Challenge

STRIDER NEWS Stowmarket Striders Running Club Newsletter Autumn/Winter 2015 The Golden Mile Challenge

Race report: by Tucker Larke The second Stowmarket Striders Golden Mile took place on Saturday 5th September. The race was a sell out with 250 places snapped up. Conditions were near perfect with the temperature a cool 15 degrees with a light wind.

Our accurately measured route takes the runners through the Town Centre and finishes on the Recreation Ground as the Town's annual "Beach Party" starts.

Our unique event included runners aged from 3 to 69 years and is truly a race for all abilities. Many families run together, others are targeting a fast time over an iconic race distance.

This year we included prize money for our course records being broken and had trophies for junior runners in the U11, U13 & U15 categories as well as the top three male and female runners. (picture: Emily Moyes accepts her prize money for the new women's course record)

The race was won by Robert Reason from Harwich Runners. Improving his time and position from 2014 to 5:06:75 with Ste- ve Mason (unaffiliated) 5:13:13 in 2nd place and James Wilson (Saxmundham Saxons) 5:13:69 in third place. The female winner was Stowmarket resident Emily Moyes of West Suffolk Athletics (Stowmarket Striders 2nd Claim) finishing 7th overall and lowering the female course record in a new Personal Best of 5:29:78, last years winner Odette Robson of St Ed- munds Pacers was second in 5:43:43 with Stowmarket Striders Melody-Ann Neville third in a time of 6:40:43.

Well done to all Striders who supported and took part in this event. Full Race Results

(picture: Emily Moyes accepts her prize money for the new women's course record) Next Strider Race: The Stowmarket Half Marathon

The perfect half marathon in rural Suffolk countryside is hosted by Stowmarket Striders Running Club and held in memory of Joe Cox - our first road race of the year is kindly sponsored by local business Tomlinson Groundcare and is a Grand Prix Series Qualifying race.

The Half Marathon race is open to all entrants aged 17 years or older on race day with a course suitable for racing wheelchairs. The route takes in some of Suffolk's quietest rural country roads through undulating scenic countryside. Entries are now open … | STOWMAKET HALF MARATHON INFORMATION Cross Country East Anglian Cross Country League 2015/16

Season is under- East Anglian Cross Country League (EACCL). A Cross Country league run through the way winter months at various location through Norfolk and Suffolk. Originating as a forces league with events at various Army and RAF bases. This has now expanded to include local ————————- domestic running clubs. The series is open as team and individual events. Suffolk County The series consists of around ten races per season. This can vary per season depending on availability of clubs and venues. Two races per season can be dropped to be eligible to Cross Country participate in the awards for the season. Championships 2016 There is no cost to enter, the Club has paid £40 for the season for a Striders team Mens races are generally 10k and the ladies are approx 5k, this does vary according to

Sunday 10th January 2016, location and access. Some sites are working areas so you will have to work within base Heveningham Hall, Bungay authorisations. All races start at 2:30pm

The Club gains a point for every member entered, so you can simply enter for the ______enjoyment – just turn up in Striders team kit, find your fellow yellow runners and take part. We know how much you all love There are individual and team categories winners if you want the extra challenge. running across the beautiful Suf- folk country side on a crisp Sun- day morning, taking in the gentle undulating views. So we have a fantastic opportunity for you to do it for free on behalf of Stowmarket Striders. The club are once again paying for its members to take part in the Suffolk County Cross Coun- try Championships.

To benefit from the free entry, can you please let Team Captains, Jo Stephenson or Jason Allard know you want to take part preferably by emailing them on cap- [email protected].

This is open to Juniors too and the different distances for the age groups are on the attached information.

Please ensure you them know by 18th December.

Suffolk Winter League County Cross Country Club Survey

The Suffolk Cross Country League is a series of five races run during the winter months. It is only open to Suffolk running clubs, but again this is open to all ages (there is also usually Have your say—Don’t forget to a Junior race) and abilities and is a great social event. There are five races in the series, complete the club survey by 31st each approximately 5 miles over multi-terrain track and fields. The club gains points for every member that enters, so your very presence will be a boost for the club. The club with December 2015—Full results will the highest points at the end of the season goes forward to the finals. There are individual be published in the New Year. prizes for age category winners (to qualify you need to run 4 out of the 5 races) but sometimes the most rewarding challenge is to just see how your performance and strength im- proves as the season progresses. These races are held on Sundays at 11am and cost £4 per person payable on the day to Committee the Team Captains. All you need to do to enter is turn up at the venue in your Stowmarket Striders team kit, see Team Captains, Jason & Jo and pay £4 to enter. Hot drinks and cakes afterwards! So come along and try one, or join in them all. Vacancies

To qualify for individual prizes, athletes must compete at 4 out of the 5 races. Junior races usually start at 10.45am and are free to enter. The current post-holders are not Sunday XC training is held at Haughley Park throughout the winter months standing for re-election at the next

AGM (25th January 2016). If you

would like the opportunity to be

part of the committee and get in-

volved with Club development and

direction, please email Paul

Heeks, Chair-

[email protected]

lodging your interest. If you have CHRISTMAS TRAINING any questions about either role then please ask the current post

The following training sessions will be held over Christmas: holders or any of the existing Juniors committee members  Last session Tuesday 15th December, back on Tuesday 5th January 2016

Seniors  Tuesday 22nd - training as usual  Thursday 24th - no training   Boxing Day Run - 9.30am, meet outside the Leisure Centre (fancy dress optional— Social Secretary prize for best dressed)  Sunday 27th - Cross Country at Haughley Park  PR Officer  Tuesday 29th - training as usual

 Thursday 31st - no training  Sunday 3rd - Cross Country at Haughley Park  Tuesday 5th January—all training resumes as normal. Remember change of meeting place to new clubhouse inside the main leisure centre for all groups from January 5th. Please bring your Everyone Active card to gain access. STOWMARKET STRIDERS 2015 CLUB AWARDS

Every year, usually announced at the Stowmarket Striders Christmas Party, the club announces the male and female Club Champions, the Striders of the Year, the Coaches Awards and London/Brighton Marathon ballot winners. This year the new 5k Track Challenge Most Improved Award was presented for the first time

Club Champions 2015 Coaches Awards

The club championships are a series of 6 races held over the summer months using a 2015 awards went to handicapped system over a set 5km route from Mid-Suffolk Leisure Centre. Male and Elliot Burdett, Scott Williams, Chris Female winners each receive a shield engraved with their name. Seymour, Haley Suttle, Kate Beer & The 2015 Winners are: Denise Robinson

This prestigious award comes from the coaches to those who they believe have run their hearts out and had the biggest success at achieving their own goals.

Congratulations to all! 5K Track Challenge - Most Improved Awards

2015 awards went to Kendra Ham- mond & Steve Pretty - well done! Strider of the Year

Ladies winner is Julia Baldwin Men's winner is Jason Allard London Marathon Places This award is voted by the members of the club and can be based on a Each UK Athletics-affiliated club is guaranteed a number of places dependant upon number of factors, whether members the number of club members amongst other criteria. Stowmarket Striders this had 3 think they have run their hearts out guaranteed places to the London Marathon. Having met certain club criteria, each during the past year, worked the club member can apply for one of these places. Since there are normally more appli- hardest on behalf of the club, repre- sented the club best, entertained or cants than places, names are drawn from a hat at the Christmas Party. Applicants has just been more than just a Strid- lucky enough to win places for the 2015 Virgin London Marathon are: er member. The Mens Strider re- ceives for the following year the Andy Collett, Kate Cooper, Catherine Abbott 'George Leggett Cup' & Ladies Strid- er Irish Crystal bowl. Brighton Marathon Places CLICK HERE FOR Gemma Porch, Jane Skoulding, Terry Bennington, Anna Smith EVENT PHOTO

We wish those runners lots of luck not only for race day but for all the training they will GALLERY endure for the next few months before the big day. SCAA Suffolk 20 NEW CLUB RECORDS IN 2015 Grand Prix Qualifiers 2016 What a fabulous year of person performances with over 20 new Club records being set! Congratulations to the following members for setting a new Club Record in 2015 Stowmarket Half Marathon Anne Fish 20th March 2016 5km, Age Category: 65-70, New Record: 00:27:30, Club Champs - July 2015 (Gold)

Newmarket 10K 10km, Age Category: 65-70, New Record: 00:55:22, Wymondham - January 2015 (Gold) 3rd July 2016 Dianne Hughes Ipswich Jaffa Twilight 5k & 10k Marathon, Age Category: 50-54, New Record: 03:53:39, London - April 2015 (Silver) 5th August 2016 Tamara Jordan Saxon 5 Mile 20 miles, Age Category: 35-39, New Record: 02:14:37, Wymondham - March 2015 (Gold) 16th October 2016 Denise Robinson Hadleigh 5 & 10 Mile 27th November 2016 5Km, Age Category: 55-59, New Record: 00:26:16, Bury Track Challenge - Sept 2015 (Silver)

Read More….. Haley Suttle SCAA Suffolk 5km, Age Category: 50-54, New Record: 00:21:37, Northgate Stadium - June 2015 (Gold) County Champs 5m, Age Category: 50-54, New Record: 00:35:52, Kirton - June 2015 (Silver) 10km, Age Category: 50-54, New Record: 00:44:46, Thurston - May 2015 (Gold) Tarpley 10 Mile 27th February 2016 10 miles, Age Category: 50-54, New Record: 01:14:26, Tarpley 10 - February 2015 (Gold)

Bungay Half & Full Half Marathon, Age Category: 50-54, New Record: 01:37:55, Cambridge - March 2015 (Gold) Marathon Peter Gay 17th April 2016 10Km, Age Category: 70+, New Record: 00:52:06, Breckland - May 2015 (Silver) Framlingham 10k 4th September 2016 Frank Moggan

Read More….. 20 miles, Age Category: 65-69, New Record: 02:32:04, Essex 20 - March 2015 (Silver) Steve Pretty Club Champs 15 miles, Age Category: 55-59, New Record: 01:55:41, Folksworth - January 2015 (Silver) Begin May 2016 20 miles, Age Category: 55-59, New Record: 02:32:04, Essex 20 - March 2015 (Silver) Read More….. John Squirrell

Friday Five Series Half Marathon, Age Category: 60-64, New Record: 01:35:29, Lode Cambs - Nov 2015 (Gold)

Begins End May 2016 Chris Starmer

Read More….. 5km, Age Category: 55-59, New Record: 00:18:15, Northgate Stadium - June 2015 (Platinum) 5 miles, Age Category: 55-59, New Record: 00:30:50, Bury - June 2015 (Gold) Full Race Diary 10Km, Age Category: 55-59, New Record: 00:38:12, Ipswich Twilight - August 2015 (Platinum) Read More….. Half Marathon, Age Category: 55-59, New Record: 01:24:06, Silverstone - March 2015 (Platinum) Race Results Marathon, Age Category: 55-59, New Record: 02:53:03, London - April 2015 (Platinum) Read More….. To view all Club Records click here Above: Juniors celebrate the presentation of £855 raised from our races to Strider of charities raised earlier this year. Thank you from the Juniors We’d like to include this except from the Junior Newsletter in recognition of The Month the help that the club members give to make these sessions possible….. - Junior News – Strider Angels to the Rescue

Our super-star Juniors are going from strength to strength this year. Since July September we’ve seen record attendance at both training and races (including the fantastically supported XC at Framlingham) and they show no Iain Hunter sign of stopping even as the evenings are getting colder! With such great attendance we’ve needed helping hands and that is where our Strider An- August gels have stepped in! Angela Brinkley, Louise Goddard, Martin Little, Megan Smart, Becky Jack Catherine Belsom and Steve Pretty have literally saved the day by helping us at a number of training sessions this term - and we are very grateful! Thank you all for be- September ing absolutely brilliant and running with us on a Tuesday evening. We seriously couldn’t have run our sessions without you and are so very apprecia- Denise Robinson tive for your continued support.

October Our junior sessions are loads of fun and our youngest Striders work incredi- bly hard each week. Well done each and every one of you – keep up the good work, we are very proud of you all. Laura Hicks Sue, Chris, Olly, Steve, Gemma and Helen November

Josphine Beer Stowmarket Striders Annual AGM

(Junior) Monday 25th January—7.30pm

View our Strider Hall of Fame Stowmarket Football Club

Main topic - Club Development Plan

An interactive evening—all current members invited ‘It’s Only A Mile’

Report by Melody-Anne Neville

I’m all up for a personal challenge. Running one mile is easy, right? It’s only a mile. Think again.

We’ve all uttered the idiom ‘run a mile’ many times, but I’d never actually run 1,609 metres in a race. Think of that incredible footage of Roger Banister breaking the four minute record in 1954. And then thirty years later in the 80s, Ovett and Coe (had they been Striders) battled for their platinum standard – these legends made running a mile, look like a piece of cake.

And now at the age of 45, I was about to embark on creating my own slice of running history. Ok, it’s not quite on par with those athletic legends, but I wanted to take the Stowmarket Golden Mile seriously from the start, so my pre-race preparation was important – a healthy breakfast, brunch, yoga and some meditation, while Mr Neville donned his pink socks in homage to the 118 moustachioed David Bedford.

With an hour before race off, André and I collected our numbers, parked up, and took an easy jog down to Combs Ford. The atmosphere was buzzing, a great turn out for the community. Tactics were discussed: start off easy, then pick up the pace after the hill. There’s a hill? Beware of the gravel path by the museum, it gets narrow, keep to the left, up to the Rec, through the gates and over the finishing line.

With 211 of us gathered at the start line, the race strategies were tumbling around my head, the hooter sounded, and of course it all promptly left. Tactic-less, I simply ran hell for leather. Running through the town centre felt very naughty, I loved it. I momentarily thought this must be what it’s like to run away from zombies – it made me run faster! Recalling details of the run is a bit of a blur, I was just impelled to run very fast, but I remember hearing our lovely marshals cheering us on – thank you all.

For some reason I had envisaged the finish line at the actual gates of the recreation ground, so when I realised I had another 100 metres to go, I had to tell my legs to shut up – by then everything was in the hurt box. I then caught a glimpse of a pair of pink socks ahead of me; André had stopped just metres away from the finish line. I hesitated. I had a dilemma: do I stop to check if my husband was ok, or do I beat him over the finish line? The decision was made in flash. Easy. Beat him over the finish line of course – I probably wouldn’t ever have the chance again. Sorry my darling.

And so, that was it, I tumbled over the finishing line; the 3rd lady to finish. I don’t think I fully comprehended what had just happened. My heart and lungs wanted to pack up and leave home, but I recovered in time to a receive a fantastic trophy to celebrate my achievement, with undoubtedly the biggest grin on my face.

I haven’t run many races, but The Golden Mile was probably been the hardest, and certainly the fastest I’ve ever run. I still can’t believe I ran a 6:41min/mile. Run Britain had me ranked 8th after the race (now 11th) in my age category for 1 mile, and I’m very happy with that – a PB for running 160934 centimetres achieved. Now show me that cake, I’m always up for a personal challenge… Running as Family

Report: by Kate Beer

It all started 5 years ago when I tried to steal Jo Stephenson's running mags in the cafe at the leisure centre. On returning them I mentioned that I wasn't a runner, couldn't she tell that just by looking at me?!? Jo immediately insisted that anyone could do it and persuaded me to turn up for training on the next Tuesday.

To be honest I didn't really enjoy any part of it as I felt alone but to be fair was not particularly good company at the time. I persevered as I don't like to give up on things and it was probably the trail runs on Wednesdays started a change of feeling. At this point I convinced Philip to join me and he loved the trail runs too, our thanks go to all those people who were kind to us and didn't mind us abandoning the children as we ran, it helped immensely.

During this time Philip started doing the cross country races and joining me for the training at Haughley, which is a wonderful place to be able to train, also helped by being close to home.

Last August the children's swimming lessons changed days so their Saturday mornings were once again free, I had wanted to see what all the fuss was about at parkrun so dragged the whole family along. We arrived late just as they were all setting off and all 6 of us struggled round the 5k course. We persevered with the children and all of them, after about 10 runs, were able to run the course without walking. It has inspired Jose- phine and Charlie to join juniors and Josephine absolutely loves all races. Izzy has also raced in the school cross country competition twice and admits to enjoying it, Olly, our oldest, would enter some of the races so long as there was no competition in her age group!

Both Philip and I enjoy the competitive part of running that being a member of Striders enables and have both run further and faster than we ever imagined, including the Paris Marathon this year and PBs at almost every race so far! It isn't just about the competition though, I have taken great delight in my sister in law being inspired by us to go and do parkrun, she ran her fourth one this weekend. I also love the companionship of running with my new found friends on a social run which I am doing more and more of, Philip just wants to beat Nick Hammond (not a hope!)

For the future we hope that we will continue to run, race and improve whilst still enjoying it. Oh and the small detail of an improved marathon time...

It is down to Striders and all those who are a part of the club that we run. All the running and the sense of community has been a great benefit to this Beer family, for that I am very grateful, thank you all. Pacers, Jaffas, Striders 5k Track Challenge

Race Report by Kendra Hammond

In May I took part in the 5K track challenge, at the time I had only been running for about 7 months, when I first started running I couldn’t even manage to run for a couple of minutes without needing a breather. I really didn’t know what to expect and I felt really nervous about running on the track in front of other experienced runners. In fact I was so scared, I almost didn’t go on the night.

Being fairly new to running, it was my first ever race/track challenge. Now, I really don’t know what I was so worried about. On the night the atmosphere from everyone was amazing. Everyone was so supportive and encouraging Including the JAFFA’s and Pacer’s. Running on the track was nice and flat, gave a little spring in my step too. I was really grateful to have Iain Hunter running alongside me most of the way around, he was very supportive to me and really helped me to achieve the time that I did, as well all our fellow striders on the track side line cheering us all on each lap.

On the first track challenge despite coming last, I was so happy and really pleased to be able to run my personal best 5k time. I managed to knock over a minute and a half of my PB…only a week later too. A massive confidence boost for a new runner which then inspired me to enter into future races. I couldn’t wait to enter the track challenge again in September, Now knowing what to expect I wasn’t a complete nervous wreck this time. I was really pleased to be able to beat my time from the previous track challenge, as well as being able to achieve my tungsten club standard. Something I never thought I would be able to achieve.

There were so many great achievements on the night from everyone, some fellow striders were running at Gold and silver club standards. So inspiring. I would really recommend the track challenge to everyone, it’s a fantastic experience, and a really enjoyable night full of team spirit. I found watching all three races really inspiring. Can’t wait to try the track again next year. The Track really is for everyone to try…Not just the speedy ones.

Summer Trail Runs raises £1950 for Members nominated charities

Our 2015 Summer Trail Run series has sadly come to an end, however we are delighted to announce that the Club has surpassed itself. We have raised a whopping £1,950 (£2,437.50 with gift aid) this year which has been donated to our three club member nominated charities. SARS, Lighthouse Womens Aid and Ipswich Hospital Breast Care Unit.

The season finale to this very successful trail running year was finished in style with a delicous buffet and enjoyable run. All three charities were invited to attend and were presented with cheques. It was quite emotional and brilliant for those involved both running and organising to see where the monies raised have gone.

We hope you will join us again in April next year, when the season reopens once more. There are a few informal winter trail runs being planned amongst members so do keep your ear to the ground if you would like to take part.

Mablethorpe Half Marathon

Race Report by Debs McDowall

After being injured in 2014 and only running 149 miles. I decided to enter a few races in 2015 one was the Mablethorpe half marathon.

June got off to a bad start, as my knee and shoulder were both causing me problems, but after seeing a physio, things started to improve. With some help from some other striders, Andrea, Laura, Sue and Francis, I started to run again at weekends, very slowly at first.

It was so hard to get motivated again, but the miles built up and Julys mileage was 38, August got better with 69 miles. I managed to get a few longer runs in, and felt stronger and fitter. A couple of 8 milers and in September managed a 10ish mile run.

It was the first time in two years, that I had run that distance, it felt good to have finally managed it.

For extra training, I was running the trail runs, and on the Thursday night, the early sessions. This really helped my fitness levels. I was also going to the gym to do strengthening exercises for my legs, and out cycling to build my stamina up even more.

I ran the Felixstowe coastal 10 on the 27th September and that bought my mileage up to 64 for September.

On the 4th October, I was on the start line, ready to run the mablethorpe half marathon. I ran with Sue Bloomfield, who left us early at the start ,she was much too fast to keep up with. Andrea Friend and Laura Arfi, and we smiled and chatted all the way round a fairly flat course. A few photos appeared on Facebook, showing us having a good time. The 3 of us crossed the finish line together and although it wasn't my quickest time, I was pleased with my time of 2.25.19. I had a lovely medal and a t-shirt to show for all that hard work.

Since then I have been trying to keep my mileage up for next years Paris marathon. I am really enjoying

MABLETHORPE my running at the moment, and pushing the mileage each week, seems to make it easier for me.

I am just trying not to push to much, to avoid any more injuries.

From Park Run to Royal Parks Half Marathon

Race Report by Iain Hunter

It’s funny, when I first started running in September 2013 with an aim to do a Park run, I never thought I would ever run a half Marathon, or even a 10k. But the first thing that happens when you join a running club like Stowmarket Striders is that you start listening to what other runners are talking about. "When are you doing a race then?" or "when are doing a marathon?” of course you start thinking "I wonder if I could do that"? So after doing a few shorter races, I did my first half marathon in Gt. Bentley in February of this year. I was surprised that for most of it I felt ok, until I hit mile 11, when I started getting really tired! After that I thought, I will do another one of those. I remember chatting with Emma Yarrow one night in 2014, she was about to do the Royal Park Foundation Half Marathon. Its takes in Hyde Park, Green Park, St James Park, Kensington Gardens as well as a route that covers Trafalgar Square, Buck- ingham Palace among many other iconic sites. So I thought I would love to do that, and duly entered the ballot for 2015.

It’s no surprise that I didn’t get in, it’s one of THE most popular Half’s in the calendar. I was gutted, and decided straight away, I would do it for Charity instead! I had already run for Alzheimer’s Society in the Manchester 10k the year before, so was not concerned about that, although for this one, you had to raise a minimum of £500. I asked other runners and coaches about training plans, and decided on a 16 week plan, basically incorporating my usual Strider training, with a longer run on Sundays, of from 7 up to 12 miles. The training went well, as did the fund raising, having reached £700-very pleased! I always did the long runs with fellow Strider chums, and I felt really ready as the 11th October 2015 approached.

My wife Sue and I, went up to London on the Saturday morning, having booked a hotel just off the start of the race at Hyde Park. We were up at 6am for some breakfast, and walked into Hyde Park at about 7.45. The race has about 16,000 runners, so it’s a big one! It’s a fabulous park at this time of year, the colours are amazing, my adrenalin started kicking in, I couldn’t wait! The race started, I noticed straight away that I had to keep dodging runners, so many people! The sun was out, the crowds were amazing! As were the world famous sights, Marble Arch, the Strand even 10 Downing Street! I had set myself a pace target of 8.55, that I was desperate to keep up. I ended up doing 1.58.06, just over 12 mins off my previous time, so was very happy. The medal was lovely, made from the trees from Hyde Park in the shape of a leaf, one I will treasure.

I would urge everyone to consider the Royal Park Half, yes it’s busy, but just amazing to do. We had

Lunch in the Lido Bar on the Serpentine in Hyde Park after, with all the family. A great weekend. ROYAL PARKS ROYAL Huge thanks to my running buddies for your support, Kate, Mel, Anna, Harry, Emma and Robyn. Also to Striders for your great donations to Alzheimers.

I believe that everyone can, and SHOULD DO a half Marathon, it’s a great distance. Get your long runs in, build stamina, do the speed work and it will all come together. Go on give it a go! Brighton Marathon for me next, can’t wait!

Bournemouth Marathon—4th October 2015

Report by Martin Little

I wasn’t planning on running a marathon in 2015 but a conversation with my niece at the end of June got me thinking. She was going to run her first marathon in October in Bournemouth, where she lives. Why don’t I ask her if she would like me to run with her? She thought it was a great idea and I quickly booked my place.

2015 was to be the third year of the Bournemouth marathon festival. On the Saturday there would be kids’ races, a 10k and an evening 5k. On the Sunday there would be a half-marathon followed by the marathon. It would be my second marathon. My first was the Virgin London Marathon in 2014, when I got my place through the club ballot at the Christmas party.

I now needed to decide on my training plan. What should I follow? I chose a plan from the Competitive Runner’s Handbook, which I used for the London Marathon. I adjusted it slightly to suit me. I decided to run a maximum of five days a week although most weeks it would be four. I would include the Striders’ Tuesday session and run a peak weekly mileage of just over 40 miles, with a long run peak of 20 miles. The summer training wasn’t as bad as I thought. I’m not a fan of running in the heat but as long as you stay hydrated, the long summer days and nicer weather beats the bleak mid-winter training for a spring marathon.

Race day arrived. I left the hotel to get the bus to the start at King’s Park. I started to get a little stressed as I waited over 30 minutes for a bus and when it did turn up the driver didn’t know the route there! We had to wait for another bus to follow. “Think calm” I said to myself. Anyway, I arrived in time, panic over.

BournemouthMarathon 10.00 am arrived and we were off. It was going to be strange running a whole race with my niece. I soon spotted two Bury St Edmunds Pacers ahead and had a quick chat with them. The first few miles flew by as we eased into our race pace. Before we knew it we were at mile 5 running along Hengistbury Head and then out and back towards Boscombe.

Around mile 8 it was great to see fellow Striders Melody–Anne and André cheering us on. The first climb came at mile 12 at Boscombe Chine Gardens. At mile 16 there was the unique experience of running along the wooden decking of Boscombe Pier, before doing the same thing on Bournemouth Pier a mile further along the promenade. Two piers for the price of one marathon entry! A steep climb at mile 18 behind Bournemouth International Centre, then on to Poole harbour at mile 23. Then the final 3 miles along the promenade until the finish at Bournemouth Pier’s Lower Gardens. We both had big smiles on our faces after crossing the finish line in a time of 4 hours 15 minutes. We collected our bling and then then like a pair of daleks we shouted “Oh no, stairs!”. We had to negotiate two flights of stairs to get to the meet-up area. After 26 miles, stairs are the last thing you want to see!

If you are thinking of doing an autumn marathon then I would thoroughly recommend trying Bournemouth. It is a great course and the out-and-backs allow any spectators with you to cheer you on numerous times. The 2016 Bournemouth Marathon Festival will be held on 1st and 2nd October. I enjoyed it so much I have entered already. RUNNERS PROFILES Meet your fellow Strider

Who or what inspires you? ‘My wife because she is so brave after everything she has been through.’

Tony Burdett

Q: Name? Q: Best running moment? A: Tony Burdett, ( birth certificate is William Anthony Burdett) Completing my 1st London Marathon in 2010.

Q: Age? Q: Favourite pre-race meal? A: 53 A: Porridge and a cup of coffee.

Q: What do you do for a living? Q: What’s your running goal for the next 12 months? A: I work at Climax UK Ltd in Stowmarket, where I A: To complete a sub 4 hour Marathon sample the molybdenum which is produced in the factory. Q: What’s your favourite book? Q: When did you start running with Stow Striders? A: I don't have one. A: I started in April 2005, I went to the 6.30 Beginners group until the September then moved up to the 7.30 Q: What’s your favourite film? group. My first race was in March 2006 which was the A: Back to the Future films. Joe Cox 10 miles. Q: If you run with music what’s your favourite running Q: What’s your favourite club race? track? A: Cross country Suffolk Winter League at Haughley Park. A: I have never run with music.

Q: Favourite Race Distance? Q: If you could give a new runner one piece of advice, A: 10k what would that be? A: Build up mileage/speed slowly to avoid injury. Join Q: How many times a week do you run? Stowmarket Striders. A: At least 3 times sometimes 4 depending on whether I am training for a particular race. Q: If you could be a super-hero who would you be? A: Superman! Q: What other training do you do? A: I have just started Olly's circuit training. I also cycle. Q: Who or what inspires you? Why? A: My wife because she is so brave after everything she Q: How do you cope if you can’t run? has been through. A: Luckily I have not had an injury that has stopped me running for any length of time, I have just had to stop for Q: What does being part of Stowmarket Striders mean maximum 2 weeks. to you? A: Being part of a great friendly club, which supports and encourages everyone whatever their ability is.

Kings Forest 50km Trail Race

Report by Phil Green

The Kings Forest 50km Trail Race had been on my radar since it was ran last year and was something I’ve been interested in doing for many reasons. I’d never ran an Ultra, only multi day marathons, it was near to home, ironically less distance to drive to than the distance I would actually run and it was laps, this is something I do not enjoy doing and wanted to test myself.

I felt that training was going well and that with the speed work I was currently doing I would be aiming to complete the run in 4:29:00 best case scenario and 4:59:00 if things didn’t go to plan. I’d already been warned by friends that had run it last year that the sand would sap the legs. I had planned my pace 8:24 m/m, I had decided to take my hydration pack and take small sips every other mile and had some small fruit shots for when I needed food.

I drove to the West Stow Country Park in slight darkness ready to collect my number and get ready for an 8:00am start. The weather was fresh and I worried if I needed just my Striders running vest or a layer underneath, I decided on two layers, I must be getting old. I got myself ready and mentally prepped and out of the 76 runners that entered 58 of us walked over the road from the car park to start four laps of 12.5km trail.

Lap One: I wanted to ensure that the first lap was a tester, I wanted to see what the course was like and which sections I could increase speed or would have to push. It took me a while to settle in and a small group went off at the front, I had to really tell myself not to chase. It seemed that the loop was a mixture of 3km sand followed by 3km stone and gravel followed by another 3km of sand and finishing off with 3km of gravel, grass and a lovely small hill to check in after each lap. After the first lap I’d been informed I was 17th, I dropped off my first wrist band and carried on over the road again to lap two – you were given different coloured wrist bands to identify what lap you were on.

Lap Two: I was now into a good pace and was looking at more like averaging 8:17 than 8:24, I was able to look forward to the harder gravel/stone stages where I could speed up, this then presented another challenge of trying not to get too excited and speed away. This was too little, too late, I looked at my watch 6:34 pace ‘Philip Green slow down’ I shouted at myself. I continued on the lap and caught a couple of other runners who I found out had run some of the multi day events I had, I ran with them for a little while and then moved forward.

Lap Three: I started lap three thinking it was going to be the hardest psychologically due to it ’s a nothing lap and I was wanting to get to the last lap (boy I was going to be wrong). I continued to sip every other mile and then realised I hadn’t eaten anything yet but felt that I didn’t want too so continued to run and drink and try to stay at the 8:24 pace. I continued to try and catch any runners in front but not to push too much. Lap three was surprisingly good and I still felt good. I ran up the small hill for the third time saying to myself one more and you’re done!

Lap Four: I’d been wary of the sand taking it out of my legs and pretty much as soon as I hit the sand on the last lap I had finally felt what my friend had been talking about. The legs really didn’t want to work and I was now starting to feel it. I looked at my watch to see I’d past marathon distance in 3:40:39 quite comfortably but now I was paying. Wanting to drink a lot more and wanting to slow down but I wasn’t prepared to do that. I gave myself a talking to and we continued to move forward, lapping a few runners and once I crossed over the road to the car park I knew it was about a 2km to go. I pushed hard and gave myself another stern talking to while getting up what felt like a very bigger hill to cross the finish line in 4:32:04, this was my first actual Ultra completed and I was happy with the time. Then while tucking into the amazing spread was informed I’d finished 6th overall – looks like all that talking to myself really paid off.

It was a great event. Really well organised, really well signed throughout. The marshals were happy and helpful throughout and for anyone doing their first Ultra I would highly recommend it! I drove out of the car park happy I’d ticked my 50km box and looking forward to telling the family all ab about it. STRIDER NEWS Stowmarket Striders Triathlete News—Winter 2015

Striders Peninsular Wins in a Field of Giants Several Striders took up the tri-challenge at the new Peninsular Triathlon held by Ipswich Basketball Team at The Royal Hospital school, Holbrook early in October. Chris Miles was the top scoring Strider in 11th place, completing the 500m swim, 20 mile bike ride and 5k run in 1:28:13. Followed closely by James Hayward (16th) 1:29:39, Scott Williams (17th) 1:30:26, Martin Archer (21st) 1:31:48. Richard Leeder (50th) 1:40:07, Wayne Gardner (56th) 1:41:00. Haley Suttle took 1st for her age category (57th overall) 1:41:14, Steve Gray (75th) 1:45:39 Nancy Blick (166th) 2:06:08

Haverhill Duathlon

Fantastic Strider results at Haverhill Duathlon Mark Hayward 4th, James Hayward 5th. Well done guys.

Saltmarsh 75

Congratulations to Chris Seymour who finished first, in the Saltmarsh 75 mile run today, in and amazing time of 11hours 46 minutes. He was 11 minutes ahead of the next runner, it was incredible to see him still pushing to the end.

European Long Distance Triathlon Championships

Mick Jones has moved into the top 20 in his age category racing for Great Britain—well done Mick.

British Triathlon Affiliation. Stowmarket Striders have renewed thier 2016 British Triathlon, Club Affiliation membership, we currently have 18 members.

What are the benefits for a CLUB to affiliate? Triathlon England Discounts, Club coaching and event support, insurance and funding applications

If you would like to take advantage and Join please go the British Triath- lon and Triathlon England Websites

Stowmarket Triathlon

Race Report by Yvonne Doe

Stowmarket Triathlon, was I nervous, scared, oh yes I was petrified, right up to the moment I got in the pool and started to swim.

A few weeks heading up to the day I was getting very worried. I was getting told things like: don’t touch your bike until your hat is on, foot down at end of road, don’t get on bike until after line, if someone touch- es your foot in pool to stop at the end. So much information, what if I forget? Go wrong? I was started to get really worried even with fellow strider friends telling me I will be fine, I’m good on my bike.

You may ask why I entered the triathlon in the first place. Well I wanted a new challenge, just to say I have completed a triathlon, a new achievement. I didn’t care what time I got, I just wanted to complete it.

For the training, all I did was practice swimming every week to try and get stronger and a bit quicker. I’m not very good at front crawl or maybe just not as confident or at swimming fast. But it doesn’t matter how slow or fast you are as you are put with people the same speed as you. Also one day a week, I would try to go out on my bike with two friends who also were doing the triathlon (but both had done one before) just to get used to my gears, the feel for the bike (also excuse to stop and try local tearooms for cake). Running was a bit harder to practice as I was suffering from plantar fascias and couldn’t do the training I wanted.

The day arrived and I was so nervous that I was feeling sick, shaking and was wondering what the earth I had let myself in. Soon my time had come, in the pool I got and swam, I was then in concentration mode. I remember getting out of the pool and running outside to hear the man say number 43 Yvonne Doe Stowmarket striders first triathlon, I was thinking don’t tell everyone. Soon as I was on my bike I relaxed for a bit and enjoyed the scenery. The hardest bit for me was definitely getting off the bike and running, my legs, what legs? I think they were running but it didn’t feel like it. Going around that field was such hard work and for a few seconds I had to stop and get my breath with a little walk, but another runner came past and shouted come on, I was on my way once again.

Coming over that finish line was the best feeling ever and then when I realised my time, I was even more shocked and so happy. 1hour 21mins 40 seconds for my first triathlon. Wow!

STOW TRIATHLON STOW I could not of done it without my friends from Striders and family support on the day, thank you all for believing in me. Would I do another? One day yes.