No.664 / Vol.125 Reports & News Summer 2015

YDL Birmingham 2

A club well worth backing From the Editor Thanks to our sponsors: With Olympic year upon us the club will again no Biggin Hill Airport doubt be following the progress and continued Jack Petchey Foundation rise of Dina Asher Smith who has in 2015 laid So Clean down markers to establish her credentials as the coming force in British Athletics, especially at and to many other generous the World Championships last summer. Hopefully individuals who offered backing Adam Gemili will no doubt be staking his claim for and assistance. inclusion in the GB squad for Rio this summer. Meanwhile the question of the move to new headquarters continues to provide a source of animated conversation as to when and in what form the premises will take shape. Further developments will be CONTENTS outlined at the club AGM in March at which time we shall know how far Athletics Reports the project has been advanced. A report on this will feature in the next issue of the Gazette to be produced in the summer. 1 Senior Men 6 Senior Ladies Another development for the future which has already been mentioned is the proposed celebrations for the club’s forthcoming 150th 10 Junior Women anniversary in 2019. So far an ad hoc group has been set up to consider 18 Young Athletes and promote the organisation of various events which would be fitting 22 U13 and U15 girls ways of marking this landmark. A resume of this committee in club news outlines what has been proposed and confirmed so far. 24 U15 boys There have been the usual abundance of promising performances 27 U13 boys and once again I am indebted to Paul Austridge for his many and 37 ESAA Championships informative reports which once again give an optimistic picture of the 38 London Marathon club’s future. A report from Joss Barber gives a first hand account of one of the many competitions in which our young athletes competed 40 Parris Handicap this summer. 42 Tri club news In most issues of the Gazette it is unfortunate that we have to report the passing of those members who have made invaluable contributions Obituaries to the club over many years. However the memories of their influence 43 Graham Botley in the club is a cause to celebrate their lives, and this is so for the life 46 Bill Graham of PP Gary Botley whose obituary appears in this issue. For those who knew him and remember his many qualities and achievements, it was Club News he amongst others who was instrumental in moving the club on from its 47 Scott Overall and exclusivist past and bringing it into the modern era. Dinah Asher-Smith Before signing off I wish to offer grateful thanks to the following for 48 150th season celebrations willingly providing articles for this issue: 50 Pat Calnan revies the IPP Dick Griffin, Paul Austridge VP, PP Pat Calnan, PP Tim Soutar, Courier Karen Desborough, Maz Turner VP, Joss Barber, PP Steve Hollingdale, Nick Swatton, Nick Kinsey VP, Nick Brooks VP, PP Ian Wilson, 51 Sport Bromley honours PP Chris Haines, and others. John Blackie The next issue covering the winter of 2015/6 is due for release in August 2016 and the deadline for submission is Late June 2016. Athletics Report 1 The British Athletics League 2015 season

ranks. So at the start of the winners. Plenty made the top In 2014 we surprised Summer our first claim senior three, however, and five of ourselves by finishing in third specialist field eventers, ie these were achieved by under place in Division One of the those between the ages of 20s. Louis Mascarenhas British Athletics League, our 20 and 35 consisted of one was 3rd in both the discus highest position since being high jumper, three long and shot with distances of relegated from the Premier jumpers, one triple jumper, 47.55 and 14.28, the latter Division in 2000. A year on one pole vaulter, a shot and a new personal best. Stefan we scored more match points discus thrower and a hammer Amokwandoh had his first over the four fixtures but this thrower. Seven of the eight competition after injury and did not translate into more had joined us from other finished in second place in League points as we finished clubs. Of these, two were the triple jump with 14.48. 6th in the League. So some studying in the United States Will Fuller was third in the progress but not reflected in and of the other six, four 3000 metres in 8.31.6 as the table. began the season injured. To was Richard Webb in the fill the events we would be 3000 metres steeplechase in dependent on multi eventers, 9.57.86 picking up the Club higher competition athletes, steeplechase challenge goblet Masters and youngsters. in the process. Dan Putnam opened his Match One – Windsor season with a 48.01 clocking 9th May 2015 to place second in the 400 After missing the whole of metres but a toe problem 2014 we welcomed back to after this restricted him to a the team James Alaka and leg in the 4x100. In fact this Phil Sesemann, two athletes also marked the end of his In a very competitive division who have been competing for Summer as the injury did not we never looked like being Club since they were Under clear as quickly as hoped. relegated and it is probably 13s. They have been greatly This was a big blow to the fair to say that the two missed and were quick to team as he was our joint top strongest squads, Liverpool show everyone why. Phil, who points scorer in 2014. It was and Windsor, were promoted. is currently studying medicine second also in the Hammer Local rivals Kent and at Leeds University, finished where Tom Parker travelled Cardiff were relegated, both runner up in the 1500 metres down from Cambridge having spent brief time in and James was 4th in both the University to record a the Premiership Division in 100 and 200 metres A string distance of 54.33. Alex Bruce recent years. races, before running legs in Littlewood enjoyed two B Going into the season both relays. string victories in the 1500 we knew we had some That they didn’t finish and 3000 metres. exceptional talent in our higher indicated how good Mark Longhurst was down squad but also weaknesses a standard this Division was on his best in the pole vault as well. In part this has been with many Internationals as he cleared 4.20 for third due to fewer youngsters in action and we did not place but he also picked up coming through to the senior have any individual A string some important points by 2

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covering the javelin and long Yet despite this we made sure jump events as well. Similarly every event was filled and Phil Sesemann also took part showed some great quality so in the triple jump and Dan much so that we proved to Kennedy came 2nd in the B be the strongest track team string steeplechase almost on the day but the weakest in immediately after running the field. the 800 metres B string 800 Best event of the day for us runner Peter Tucker was racing was the 5000 metres where have done more but athletes considerably below distance Graham Rush took the lead are limited to competing in as two weeks ago he was the half way through the race and seven events. Club’s second finisher in the just ran away from the field to He wasn’t the only one to do London Marathon in 2.24.00 win in 14.35.43. Alex Bruce more than their usual share of Both Mark Cryer and Jack Littlewood took maximum events. Tom Parker finished Messenger, on his debut, points in the B string and his exams at Cambridge set personal bests in the 110 finished ahead of all the other University the day before but metres hurdles of 15.24 and clubs’ A string runners in a was up at the crack of dawn 16.35 respectively, and Jon time of 14.43.02. It was only to head to Southampton for Pairman equalled his best of half an hour after he had won the first event at 11.30am, 3 metres in the pole vault. the B string 1500 metres in the hammer. He was third in Richard Holt also made a 3.56.55 with Phil Sesemann the A string with 54.16 and return to BAL competition second in the A string in was then happy to contest scoring some useful points in 3.55.32. Between these two the remaining throws for the 400 metres hurdles at the races James Alaka won the a point and also the triple age of 43. Alex Pope racked 200 metres in 22.26 to add jump. However, as so often up a lot of points in the B to the second place he had happens, he did better than string throws. achieved in the 100 metres expected as he was 6th in All these efforts helped the earlier in the day. the B string triple jump and team to finish in 4th place Busiest man of the day, discus and 7th in the shot. on the day, frustratingly 5.5 however, was Luke Likewise, the aforementioned points behind Southampton Smallwood. He was first to Phil Sesemann scored with Windsor and Liverpool arrive at the venue bringing important points in the long well clear. the Club tent but he didn’t jump, triple jump and pole have much time to use it as vault; Jack Messenger, whose Match Two – Southampton he soon sprang into action main event was the 400 6th June 2015 to contest the long jump. metres hurdles also competed Our lack of depth in the field Then he was onto the track to in the 110 metres hurdles, was exposed in the second finish third in a very strong match as we did not have a 400 metres hurdles in 53.41. single jumper available due to He went on to win the 400 B athletes either being abroad, string in 48.71 and take 4th in injured or doing exams. We both the 100 and 200 metres were also light in the throws B strings as well as being in and only had one sprinter. both relay teams. He would Athletics Report 3

high jump and both relays; While we were the hosts, the 4x100 metre team with and Alex Pope was in action some of the home advantage Duayne Bovell, Great Britain in the high jump, pole vault, was taken away as it is actually bobsleigher Toby Olubi and shot, discus and javelin. pretty local for most of the Ishmael Smith John who Junior Will Fuller set a new other clubs as well. So despite finished in second place; best of 1.55.85 in the A string four personal bests and eight and ran the anchor leg of 800 and Dan Kennedy’s seasons bests we had to settle the 4x400 metres team that 2.01.63 in the B string was for 5th place. Fresh from included Luke Smallwood, his fastest for three years. his victory over 10km in the Jack Messenger and Matthew Elsewhere on the track Richard United States the previous Jones. week, Scott Overall continued Webb and Alex Gibbins scored Luke was providing the his winning form by claiming good points in the 3000 metres electronic timing for the victory in the 5000 metres in steeplechase; as did Shaun meeting as well as competing 15.01.74. Cooke in the 400 and Kertis in the 400 hurdles and Beswick on his League debut Our other A string winner 400 metres on the back of in the 110 hurdles. was James Alaka in the 100 working a number of 100 A hand injury meant Steve metres. Fourth in the first hour weeks. Jack set two Timmins could only compete match, second in match two, personal bests. The Southern in the Hammer but he gained he continued racing himself Under 20 400 metre hurdles an important second place in back to fitness with victory champion improved to 55.07 the B string. in 10.70. He may well have and produced a leap of 12.27 been under 21 seconds in the This meant that we were now in his first proper triple jump 200 metres but as he hit the 5th in the table, five points contest. Kertis Beswick also straight the recall gun was off a promotion place but achieved a best in the hurdles fired. As it was he still won three clear of the relegation timing 15.0 to finish second the restarted race in 21.26, a positions. Among the other in the B 110s, faster than season’s best. bright spots was to have Ali Mark Cryer in the A string Coles along to support the Having been studying in the who aggravated a hamstring team. States for four years, Jonathan injury but not before he had Ilori has had little Match Three – Norman Park opportunity to Bromley 11th July 2015 compete for the It wasn’t so long ago we went team. He finished over a decade without hosting second in the a British League match. Now triple jump with our reputation for putting on a distance of a good meeting means we are 14.28, some way called to host regularly. We off his best but didn’t disappoint either with this was because the barbeque and beer tent he was changing well used and Mike Davies his technique organization of the officials and taking off on Richard Webb receiving the Steeplechase Challenge ensuring the Athletics ran his other leg. He Goblet from President Dave Cordell at the British smoothly. was also part of League match at Eton on 9 May 2015. 4

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made his debut finishing 5th both Phil Sesemann and Dan in a high class discus contest Kennedy set personal bests of as well as gaining important 1.52.85 and 1.58.84, the first points in the shot. His efforts time Dan had broken two in the A string allowed Alex minutes. Phil also claimed Pope to pick up two third third place in the 1500 metres places in the B strings to in 3.57.16 while Dan helped add to his haul of points the sprint section by running in the hammer and javelin the 400 and 4x400 relay. with Steve Timmins as his A More good middle distance finished third in the long string. Javari Cameron was jump with 6.80 as well as points came from youngsters 5th in the B long jump. The Richard Webb and Will Fuller claiming 6th in the high jump. pole vault demonstrated the who were both fourth in the In the B string, one of the Club is one for all ages with A string 3000 steeplechase most pleasing aspects of the A string Allan Williams being and 3000 metres respectively. day was to see the return to four times the age of B string Alex Gibbins was second in competition of Lewis Ely. Edward Adams. Allan is the the B chase while Alex Bruce After missing the whole of top over 60 in the country just Littlewood doubled up in the 2014 following major heart missing out on clearing 3.40 1500 and 3000 metres despite surgery he had been looking while talented multi eventer there being less than half an forward to competing this Edward, an under 17, was 4th hour between the two. year but sprained his ankle in equal in the B string. Jack Messenger was just April and had to have his foot So after all these efforts we outside his best in the 400 in a cast. His training took a were back up to 4th in the further set back with a heavy table. We weren’t going to get metres hurdles as he placed cold. He cleared 1.75 but he promoted but we were five fifth in 54.90. He also set thinks there will be much points clear of the relegation bests of 16.17 in the 110 more to come. Phil Sesemann places. metres hurdles and 12.58 scored well in the 800 and in the triple jump. Richard 1500 metres, and Georges Match Four – Liverpool Davies had his first races of Vacharopoulos had a fine run 8th August 2015 the year running the 400 and in the B 800 setting a seasons With our place in the 4x400 despite injury. best of 1.55.70 to finish third. Division for 2016 virtually Captain Ed Harrison Ever reliable Alex Bruce guaranteed, the pressure was made a welcome return to Littlewood took the runner off, which was probably just competition and although up spot in the B 1500 before as well because we were not he hadn’t stepped on a track competing in the 5000 just at full strength and were for a year he still ran 60.66 half an hour later. Alex particularly short in the for the 400 hurdles. Duayne Gibbins and Dan Kennedy sprints. In contrast to match 2 Bovell was under 11 seconds completed the middle we were last on the track but again in the 100 metres with distance success, Alex setting fourth best in the field. Mark Cryer filling in the B a seasons best and Dan a There were still some good string before contesting the personal best of 10.36.05. performances though, not 110 hurdles. Mark achieved In the field Matt Blandford least in the 800 metres where the Club’s highest individual Athletics Report 5

placing of the day when he The full list of our points What were our finished in second place in scorers for the season is: best events? the long jump with his last round leap of 6.82 and he was 1 Alex Pope 98 1 1500m 90 also fourth in the B string 2 James Alaka 90.5 2 3000m/5000m 85 high jump and part of the 3 Phil Sesemann 76 3 Hammer 71 4x100 metres team. “A” string 4 Mark Cryer 74 4 3000m s/chase 70 5 100m 67 in the high was Lewis Ely 5 Jack Messenger 71.5 who set two seasons bests on 6 Discus 63 6 Alex Bruce Littlewood 71 7 200m 62 the day finishing with 1.85, 7 Luke Smallwood 60.5 welcome progress after his 8 Triple jump 61 8 Steve Timmins 48 health issues. He had hoped 9= 400m hurdles/Shot 58 9 Tom Parker 45 for more but relieved some of 11 400m 56 his frustration with a run in 10 Duayne Bovell 34 12 110m hurdles 53 the 200 metres. 11 Richard Webb 30 13 Long jump 48 12= Dan Kennedy 28 14= High jump/800m 39 Robert Sutherland set a Will Fuller 28 16 Pole vault 37.5 seasons bests of 13.80 in the 14= Louis Mascarenhas 24 17 4 x 400m 34 triple jump to finish in third Alex Gibbins 24 18 4 x 100m 28 place in the A string and he 19 Javelin 27 equalled his personal best of 16 Shaun Cooke 19.5 17 Jonathan Ilori 19 6.21 in the long jump. Alex Thanks to all those who put 18 Mark Longhurst 17 Pope was the Club’s lone pole themselves out for the team vaulter as he popped over 19 Dan Putnam 16.5 in 2015 whether as an athlete, a height for the points. His 20= Graham Rush 16 supporter, coach, or official. main contribution, however, Scott Overall 16 The squad now prepare for came in the throws where he Rob Sutherland 16 another competitive season in contested the shot, discus and 23 Kertis Beswick 15 2016 when they will face the javelin with Steve Timmins. 24 Stefan Amokwandoh 14 City of Glasgow and Enfield & They set season’s bests in the Matt Blandford 14 Haringey who were relegated discus and with Steve also 26 Lewis Ely 12 from the Premier Division; third in the B string hammer, 27 Toby Olubi 9.5 Southampton, Basingstoke the duo contributed 53 of the 28 Georges Vacharopoulos 8 & Mid Hants and Herne Club’s 229 points. Tom Parker 29 Ed Harrison 7 Hill; plus Thames Valley was fourth in the A hammer 30 Jon Pairman 6.5 and Harrow who have been promoted from Division Two. despite sustaining an injury in 31 Richard Davies 6 All the venues are fairly local the second round. 32= Allan Williams 5 so we would welcome your Steve was the biggest points Edward Adams 5 support. We look forward to scorer of the day with 29 but 34= Javari Cameron 4 seeing you on and at: Alex was the top scorer for Richard Holt 4 7 May, Watford the season amassing 98 with 36 Ishmael Smith John 3.5 4 June, West London Stadium James Alaka, who missed 37 Sam Cartwright 3 2 July, Norman Park Liverpool because of work, 38 Matthew Jones 2.5 6 August, Basingstoke second on 90.5 and Phil 39 Peter Tucker 1 Sesemann third on 76. Pat Calnan 6 The Senior Ladies at the Southern Athletic League 2015

SAL Norman Park Pole vault with 2.40, and At times displays of talent 25th April Jamiyla Robinson – Pascal in and ability were very much in Our strongest Ladies team of the A string long jump with evidence and yet at other times the season containing most 5.33. Our Ladies cleaned up it was to prove a stiff challenge of John Blackie’s best athletes in both relays winning the to find the full compliment 4x100 by nearly 7 seconds, of personnel for the events turned out for the home competed for. However the fixture. There were plenty with a team which included senior ladies throughout of wins on the day including Dina Asher Smith, and the summer displayed great Shannon Hylton running in 4x400 by almost 25 seconds. determination and versatility the 100 metres with 11.92, We didn’t quite manage the in a season which had an and 200 in 23.38 who won overall win, but this was a unfortunate outcome due to the Sweat Shop award for very encouraging start to the adverse circumstances, but the best track athlete of the season. the teams which could be season. There were also wins Tonbridge 219.5, Blackheath put out for each fixture were for Vivien Olatanji in the & Bromley 188, Basingstoke not devoid of outstanding 100 metres and 200 metre & Mid Hants 165.5, Stevenage performances or without B strings with 12.59, and & North Herts 150 promise for the future. 26.65, Cheriece Hylton in the 400metres with 53.91, and SAL Chelmsford Rachel Dickens in the B 400 31st May metres with 55.72. Many of our best Ladies The ever improving Anastasia made the journey to Davies secured double wins Chelmsford on a damp day in in the 100m Hurdles with which the Pole Vault was held 15.32 and B Triple Jump with indoors. There were good 10.76, and Leah Everson and early points here for us with Isabella Hilditch in the A Christina Moore taking the and B 400 metres Hurdles. A string with 3.30, and Sonia Leah qualified for the English Woolhouse being placed schools with a Personal Best second in the B string with of 65.20. There were strong a seasons best of 2.60. There throws in the Hammer and was a strong start also on the PBs with the 4K for Victoria track with Becky Mclinden Wiltshire 44.65, and Carys winning the A string 400 Marsden with 40.54 taking metres Hurdles with a PB maximum points. 64.6, and Leah Everson Further good wins were taking B string with 66.2 recorded by for Kerri and a good day for Grace Davidson in the A string Sheppard winning the B 100 Triple Jump with 12.45, Jackie in 12.4, and finishing second Montgomery in the B string in the A string 200 metres. In Athletics Report 7

addition there were wins also SAL Southampton and Elizabeth was second in for Magda Cienciala in the B 20th June the B string 100 metres with string 200 metres with 25.5, With only two specialist 13.3, and B string 200 metres Jessica Keene, and Kelsey sprinters, no specialist high, in 27.8. Both Ladies teamed Fuss in the A&B strings long or triple jumpers, one up with Christina, and Becky 3000m. thrower, and one hurdler this in the 4x100 metres relay. Anastasia Davies impressed was a day that was always Samantha Leighton won the again winning the A 100H going to be difficult for the B string 1500 metres, and with 15.2, and second in ladies. However those present ran a strong leg in the 4x400 the B string Triple Jump. worked hard to cover most relay. Thanks to all Ladies Double wins were recorded events and none more so than especially Grace Shepperd by Jamiyla Robinson-Pascal Christina Moore who won the and Elizabeth Ibidunni for in the B string High, and A string pole vault with 3.30, making the journey, and Long jumps and good points and also scored points in the giving their best. long, high, and triple jumps. were also gained by our Southampton 209, Bedford Christina also competed in promising young thrower & County 178, Colchester the Discus, Javelin, and 4x100 Carys Marsden winning the Harriers 176.5, Blackheath & metres. Jackie Montgomery B string Hammer with 39.56, Bromley 146.5. and B string Discus with was second in the Vault B, and scored points in the long 32.60. A special mention SAL West London should be made for Sonia jump, high jump, and shot, 4th July who competed in the Vault, competing in all these events Unfortunately circumstances Javelin, B400, 100H, and the despite having a wrist injury. such as various fixture clashes 4x400. To give her relief for Carol Pennington proved and late withdrawals meant these achievements we had again what an excellent that we had our smallest to stop at the first pub to competitor she is with a team of the season on a hot replenish her fluid levels. second place in the 3000 sunny day in West London. The performance of the metres timing 10.38, and However, and not to dwell day went to Divine Oladipo third place in the 1500 metres on the negatives, there were winning the Discus, and with 5.09. Becky McLinden many strong performances setting a PB of 45.63 was secondd in the 400 from the Ladies who battled which took her to the metres Hurdles with 65.7, and through the London traffic as top of the rankings and also competed in the 100H, I did to witness double wins gained her selection for and 4x400. again for Grace Sheppard in the Commonwealth Youth Grace Sheppard, and the 100m with 12.7 and 26.00 Games in Samoa. It also won Elizabeth Ibidunni’s efforts in the 200m. This was backed her the Sweat Shop Field in making the journey to up by Lizzy Ibidunni with a Athlete of the season award. Southampton resulted in third place in the B string 100 Nene Valley 231, Chelmsford Grace winning the 100 metres metres with 13.4 and second 195, Blackheath & Bromley in 12.6, and finishing second place in the 200metres with 158, City Of Portsmouth 136. in the 200 metres with 26.6 27.8. 8 Athletics Report

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Despite having competed in relegation, many outstanding the B string high jump with a triathlon the previous day performances were achieved. 1.45. Kate Curran registered a B Cheriece Hylton by winning Unfortunately despite string win in a time of 4:52.8, the 100m in a new PB of winning the match this was whilst Jessica Keene in her 12.02, also winning the 200 not enough to keep us up in last competitive performance metres with 23.94 was Female Division 1. We finished 13th before the English Schools of the Match. Rachel Dickens with the same League points 3000 metres (which she won the B string 100 metres as the team in 9th position, would go on to win) won her with 12.44 and the B string but lost out on just 4 match A string race in 4:46.5. There 200 metres with 25.18. It was points. Hopefully we can were double wins in the 400 another outstanding day for bounce back next season, see metres hurdles for Leah Anastasia Davies winning the you all then. Everson and Abi Kingston. Triple Jump with a huge PB Blackheath & Bromley 211, and Bethany Frost finished of 11.57m, and another PB Crawley AC 209, City of a commendable third in the in the 100 metres Hurdles of Norwich 174, Walton 138. 1500 Steeplehchase with a 14.55 placing second. seasons best of 5.59.2. There followed double wins John Wakeman In the field Robin Petitt won in the 400 metres Hurdles for the High Jump and set a PB talented U17 Isabella Hilditch in the Triple Jump of 10.13. with a PB of 64.88, and Toyin Orelaja performed Becky McLinden with 65.02. very well winning the A long Furthermore there double Jump with 5.02 and placed wins again for our Pole Vault second in the A triple jump Ladies with Christina Moore with 10.75. However Danielle winning A with 3.30, and Critchley aggravated an Jackie Montgomery inspired injury in warming up and was by her World Masters silver unable to compete in the 800 medal setting another PB of metres. The disappointment 2.70 winning the B string. was clear to see. Thanks There were more wins for to all who competed and ever improving U17 Carys congratulations to all the Marsden in the Discus with a winners. PB of 33.98 and also scoring Thames Valley 215, Brighton good points in the Hammer, & Hove 188, Marshall Milton and Shot. Lastly there were Keynes 172.5, Blackheath & wins also for Toyin Orelaja in Bromley 138.5. the B string triple jump with 10.66, and the B string long SAL Norman Park jump with 5.01, Samantha 15th August Leighton in the B string 1500 On a day where we needed metres with 5.11.01, and to produce our best to avoid Jamiyla Robinson-Pascal in Athletics Report 9 Senior Women in the UK Athletics League 2015

weddings, Saturday jobs, place was not enough to avoid Our senior women’s team higher and lower level event relegation. track and field competed in clashes all contributed to Many thanks to all those the Premier Division this making this a tough day. Of who officiated and supported summer. Unfortunately it the few there several were and to Tim for helping and was a case of what should competing at a much higher coaxing. Most of all though, have been rather than what level than they were used to thanks to those who turned was. We were unable to but the whole team did their out particularly those unsung field a strong enough team best. Shaunagh Brown put in heroes who had to compete to really challenge at any of another strong performance outside their comfort zones the 3 fixtures. Those who earning a 2nd, 3rd and 4th in eg Carole Penlington, did compete did their best her field events. At least the Jenny Neale, Natalie Jones, and there were some excellent sun shone but we came 8th. Charlotte Rhule, Abigail individual performances and Kingston etc. lots of heroes who did it for Our last fixture at Eton the team. The future is simple to at which we really needed to evaluate. If we can get out excel, was going well until our strongest team we should 2 days before the event. breeze back into the Premier Our first fixture was a tough Unfortunately several key one in Edinburgh Division next year otherwise athletes dropped out through it could mean relegation again. It was a terrible day; so injury etc so once again it windy that the pole vault gave those there a lot to do. Shaunagh, Kelly, Dina, Cheriece, Viv, Rachel and had to be cancelled. Our Shaunagh got two 2nds and a Jazz, Carole and Jenny, Tim, 100/200 team of Shannon 3rd in her throws and second Supporters and Officials. and Cheriece Hylton, Viv claimer Kelly Grant ran a Olatunji and Jazz Crawford Records broken. great 2nd place 1500. Kelly took almost maximum points and Niamh Bridson-Hubbard and Shaunagh Brown was Steve Hollingdale put in consistently good strong in her field events. performances in the middle However we did not have distances. Dina Asher-Smith sufficient strength in other and Serita Solomon were events and could only manage 6th out of the 8 teams on the able to join us and won their day. Thanks to the Griffiths, events comfortably. Dina Brands, Lawries and Cordells broke the 200m league record who came up and supported/ she set last year with 22.72. officiated despite the gale. The highlight of the day was a Special thanks to Tim Soutar ‘scratch’ team of Serita, Dina, who helped me in my first Cheriece Hylton and Viv event as team manager. Olatunji winning the 4 x 100 in 45.15, a new club record Next up was Birmingham and over a second ahead of and it proved even tougher nearest rivals. This match to get out a decent team for was quite close in the bottom this fixture. Exams, injuries, half but unfortunately our 7th 10 Back on the Road to Europe Our Junior Women on the YDL Trail

events are covered, apart from on debut, in the A shot) and, Another new season, but the vault. Though missing in the U17, Shannon Riskey no significant changes to the Twins, we nonetheless (B 800), Jo Clowes (B 3000), the League format, apart achieve a clean sweep in Isabella (A 300H) and Anna from switching the first two the 100s with Charmont Barnett (discus). The day is matches to Saturdays. We Webster-Tape, on her debut rounded off with wins in two start the season as National for the Club, moving up an of the relays: U20 4 x 100 Champions once again, so age group to win the U20 (Jamiyla, Charmont, Isabella we have two goals: retain A and Viv Olatunji, to be and Viv) and U17 4 x 300 our title and perform well in plagued by injury for most of (Megan Beaman-Browne, Istanbul. But first we have the season, the U20 B, while Holly, Annie and Isabella). to make sure we make the Parris Johnson and Magda But everyone contributes, National Finals. September Cienciala take care of the U17 including our new javelin seems a long way away, but events. Even more pleasing, thrower from Guernsey, Zoe the journey starts here… we repeat the clean sweep in Fitch, who comes 3rd, and we the 1500, with Genni Allen, push Windsor in the overall Sonia Woolhouse, Jess Keene match, finishing only 5 points and Naomi Kingston doing behind them in 2nd place. the honours, and in the triple As the boys struggle to field jump, courtesy of Kerri athletes in a number of events, Davidson, Annie Davies it’s probably safe to say we win and Toyin Orelaja. Although the women’s match. we can’t quite mirror this Lee Valley 16th May in any other events, we do Exam revision and the produce the double of A and Loughborough International B string wins in the U20 have depleted the team. The Stevenage 18th April 3000m (Yasmin Austridge holes in the Swiss cheese It’s an early start: mid-April and Chloe Haffenden), 400H that passes for a team sheet and a distance to travel, but at (Leah Everson and Annie) in mid-week have almost all least the weather’s kind (and and long jump (Holly Mills – been filled by the time we much better than it will turn another debutant moving up reach Lee Valley: this time out at our July home match!). an age group and recording we’re only a U20 steeplechaser We’re missing a number of a phenomenal 6.17m for a girls who haven’t yet started new League Record – and their competitive season and Toyin) and in the U17 200 others who haven’t been able (Parris and Olivia Richer), to cope with the change to a 80H (Isabella Hilditch and Saturday match. But we also Holly) and 1500s/c (Naomi have some new recruits and, and Yasmin). And the role of with everyone helping out – honour continues with further especially the middle distance U20 individual wins for girls – and the team manager Viv (B 200), Annie (100H), bringing his juggling skills Carys Marsden (B discus) out of hibernation, all the and Divine Oladipo (another Athletics Report 11

short. As we had anticipated, Hubbard in the A 1500 and we are not the only ones to Jenny Sheasby in the B 3000 be suffering from the timing and in the U17s from Jo in of the match, except for the B 3000, Holly in the B Windsor, who appear with a 80H, Anna in the discus much strengthened team and and Victoria Wiltshire in fire a shot (plus a discus and the hammer. (Not as many Parris and Magda) and hammer) across our bows. wins for the middle distance match this in the discus They’ve even brought along squad this match, but a (Divine, Carys and Anna) Morgan Lake, though she batch of good performances and triple jump (Kerri – in doesn’t have the best of days nonetheless. And, in the her last match for us before at the office, being beaten by throws, Emma James makes heading off to college in the Holly Mills in the LJ (with good contributions on her US – Toyin and Annie). The a leap only 1cm below her first appearance for the team.) double is achieved in the U17 league record in the previous We close out the match with 200 (Parris and Charmont, match) and DQ’d in the sprint a win in the U20 4 x 100 and nursing a slight foot injury, hurdles, so, beaten also by three 2nd places in the other but not that anyone would Annie (recording a PB). relays. It’s 2nd again in the have noticed) and 3000 The match begins with the overall match, but this time (Jess and Amy Leach) and debut for our latest recruit, by almost 80 points. No individual wins are added, Shaye Emmett from Sutton, official confirmation, but as in the U20s, by Niamh (A in the pole vault. After the the boys again struggle to 800 and 1500), Emma (B all too common opening contest a number of events, hammer) and Helena (A height stuttering – do vaulters likely that we win the girls’ PV) and, in the U17s, by Jess just do this to reduce team match, but it’s much closer: (adding the A 1500 to her managers to jabbering we have been warned! 3000), Isabella (A 300H), wrecks? Shaye improves her Yasmin (A 1500 s/c), Divine PB by 20cm to 3.70 – a new Allianz Park 28th June (shot – not far shy of 15m but Club record. With Helena Yet again, we’re missing a new League Record all the Coleman clearing 3.35, for an the Twins, who are in the same) and Jamiyla Robinson- outdoor PB, vaulting appears final throes of preparation Pascal (LJ). And we finish to be on the up! But the ‘team for the European Junior strongly: despite only having within a team’ award has to Championships (from which one U20 sprinter available, we go to the sprint squad with they will return with silver win both sprint relays, plus a clean sweep of both the medals from their individual the 4 x 300 (Lizzie Ibidunni, 100s and 200s from Viv, Jazz events of 200 and 400 and Roisin Atkins-Dykes, Crawford, Charmont, Parris, relay golds from the 4 x 100 Georgina Taylor and Katy- Magda and Olivia. Back in and 4 x 400, respectively). Ann McDonald). But we can the field, Divine clears 14m Though other absences leave only finish 3rd in the overall in the U17 shot and Tabitha us a little stretched, we still match behind Windsor and Lisciotto and Robyn Petitt cover all the events except Shaftesbury and can’t afford take joint honours in the for the U17 vault. We duly to slip up in the final match if high jump. Other U20 wins maintain our clean sweep we want to secure a place in come from Niamh Bridson of the 100s (Viv, Charmont, the final outright. 12

Continued

300), Katy-Ann (A 800 – in a new League Record), Isabella (A 300H), Carys (discus) and Holly (LJ – another new League Record, to go with the U20 record she set at Stevenage). With another solid performance from the middle distance squad – special recognition for the efforts of Naomi and Sam Leighton, Norman Park 26th July for vaulting! And, for the first who finish 2nd in both Even before the first event, time all season, we fail to win their events) – we look well it’s been a busy weekend. On all of the 100m races, though set going into the relays. A the Friday evening, our U20 Cheriece and Parris do win somewhat different U20 sprint 4 x 100 team of Parris, Jazz, theirs. But, a change is as good squad (Jamiyla, Charmont, Cheriece and Viv defied the as a rest: we win all the 200s Isabella and Viv) nevertheless elements (après le deluge instead (thanks to Cheriece, repeats its Friday victory doesn’t tell the half of it!) to Charmont, Parris and Olivia). with the U17s finishing 2nd, win the UKA Club Connect No more clean sweeps, but but their colleagues in the 4 race at the Anniversary we do have a goodly number x 300 (Roisin, Kate Purser, Games, in the process setting of wins, including a double Lizzie and Isabella) go one a new Club record. (Not only in the U20 javelin from our better for the win. The U20 that, but the time is faster Guernsey girls, Ali Higgins long relay team, however, has than any club senior team and Zoe, and in the U17 1500 a ‘blue line’ problem and are in the country during the (Jess and Amy), 3000 (Jess, DQ’d. But it doesn’t matter, season, other than our own!). repeating her winning form because we win anyway and Dina and Shannon then went of the previous week at the not just the women’s match on to compete for the GB ‘A’ Schools’ International – and (by 65.5 points: official results and ‘B’ Teams, respectively, in Genni). and 80H (Isabella received!) but overall. No and Holly), plus individual paper match for us, then. the main event. But, for Dina, successes in the U20s for Kate Birmingham here we come! that was merely a warm-up Curran (A 3000 – nice to for her sensational record- see her back from triathlon, YDL Finals, breaking performance less if only fleetingly), Annie (A Alexander Stadium than 24 hours later, when 100H and U17 TJ), Sonia 6th September the sun shone and sub 11.00 Woolhouse (B 400H), Divine The omens aren’t good in the history was made. (A discus and U17 shot, build up to the match, we lose But the rain and gloom warming up nicely for her trip not just one Twin, but both, returns for our final league to Samoa to represent England to injury and illness. What match the following day. in the Commonwealth Youth would Oscar Wilde have made Some had foreseen the likely Games), Emma (B hammer), of losing your two European conditions and gone off on Robyn (B TJ) and Toyin (B Junior silver medallists? And holiday. The vaulters may as HJ), as well as in the U 17s for that isn’t all – Divine has been well have done, as it’s too wet Catrin Murphy on debut (B rewarded for a successful Athletics Report 13

start with 3rd and 1st in the A taking another gold in the and B strings, respectively. We 300, before Holly and Annie go one better in the U20 LJ, produce our second double with Holly winning the A and of the afternoon in the 80H. Toyin 2nd in the B. Nor are Another silver, in the 100H, season by gaining selection we slow out of the blocks in from Molly Scott in her debut for the Commonwealth Youth the first track events, the long over the distance, continues Games in Samoa, the limit on hurdles, with Leah 3rd and the fightback as we near the 2nd claim members means Kate Purser, in her first outing meeting’s half-way point. we aren’t able to include over the full lap, a highly Better news then arrives from Charmont in the team, Kerri commendable 2nd in the the throws, with Victoria and has begun her studies in 400H and Isabella and Annie Emma both taking 3rd in the States and a number of (by a whisker) completing our the U20 hammer and Toyin others are unavailable through first double win of the day in adding a 2nd in the U17 TJ. injury at the end of a long the 300H. A win by Niamh Another winning double – season. Add to that that our in the U20 A 1500 and a 3rd from Jess and Amy in the U17 Schools Games competitors from Georgina in the U17 3000 – and two silvers (from are required to be up at the B maintain the momentum Annie and Nicole) in the U20 crack of dawn to travel down going into what has been our TJ, and perhaps we aren’t from Manchester and one strongest event all season: out of it after all? And that’s can almost be forgiven for the 100m. But we haven’t before Viv, Magda, Parris and thinking the odds are being factored in the omens! Viv Olivia come away from the stacked against us. But we’ve gets us under way nicely with 200s with two more wins and coped with worse (haven’t a comfortable win in the first two 2nd places. With Niamh we?). The other challenge in race and Molly repeats this and Jess both back to winning the run up to the event has in the U17 A, but false starts ways in the 800s and three been the sudden unavailability in both the B strings have us medals in the steeplechases of the external throwing area beginning to think about what (1st for Yasmin and 2nd places due to subsidence! At one might have been. We can’t for Charlotte and Lottie, stage, there has been talk of come back from that, can we? despite full immersion in the cancelling a number of the Meanwhile, in the vault, water jump!) it’s beginning to long throws, including the the competitors are doing look more promising! javelin, which would have their best to shred the TM’s been more than a bit of a blow nerves again, but all emerge for our Guernsey girls. In the with medals and good points end, all events survive, though (Helena 3rd, Sonia 1st and with all athletes limited to Shaye 3rd). The throws four throws. aren’t going quite so well, it However, the sun is shining being a hard task to try to when we arrive at Alexander compensate for the missing Stadium and who needs Divine. Jamiyla produces a omens? The U20 javelin is silver lining to this passing in fact the first event on the cloud in the U17 LJ and then, amended programme and Ali again, in the U20 B HJ and and Zoe get us off to a strong the clouds part with Isabella 14 Athletics Report

Continued

Squad list Genni Allan, Roisin Atkins-Dykes, Yasmin Austridge, Anna Barnett, Megan Beaman-Browne, Niamh Bridson Hubbard, Magda Cienciala, Jo Clowes, Helena Coleman, Jazz Crawford, Pippa Croft, Kate Curran, With just the relays to come, rescue in the shape of Holly. Annie Davies, Kerri we need a big finish. Not for Together with Lizzie, Parris the first time this season, we and Isabella they too ensure Davidson, Shaye Emmett, only have one U20 sprinter maximum points. The 4 x 400 Leah Everson, Nicole still standing, but the Coach/ is a different story, with too Farmer, Zoe Fitch, TM brains trust are quietly many absences to enable us a Beth Frost, Kelsey confident that they still ‘podium finish’ but, in the last Fuss, Mary Guy, Chloe have the girls to do the job. race of the day, the 4 x 300, Haffenden, Ali Higgins, Jamiyla, Molly, Olivia and Isabella, Roisin, Holly and Isabella Hilditch, Viv duly stroll to victory in Lizzie win quite comfortably Brooke Hollett, Cheriece the U20 4 x 100 but then the to ensure we finish on a high. Hylton, Shannon Hylton, omens just can’t resist one All we can do now is wait. Lizzie Ibdunni, Emma more appearance: clearly As is the practice, all the James, Parris Johnson, not having made Magda’s overall team results have to Nat Jones, Jess Keene, day difficult enough, they be announced – and trophies Naomi Kingston, Amy conspire to ensure she injures awarded – (we finish a very Leach, Sam Leighton, herself just before the end of respectable 3rd), before Tabitha Lisciotto, Katy- her warm up for the U17 race. we get the women’s match Ann McDonald, Carys Cue full “don’t panic Captain result… and we’ve done it, Marsden, Holly Mills, Mainwaring’’ mode for the by no less than 32½ points Catrin Murphy, Divine TM, but, as ever, a willing from Windsor. National Oladipo, Viv Olatunji, volunteer leaps (and the word Champions once more. Spain Toyin Orelaja, Kate is used advisedly) to the here we come! Omens? Who Purser, Robyn Petitt, needs them? Isobel Reeves, Charlotte In closing, thanks, as ever, to Rhule, Olivia Richer, all those who have supported Shannon Riskey, Jamiyla us, in so many ways, and Robinson-Pascal, Molly contributed towards another Scott, Jenny Sheasby, successful season – you know Georgina Taylor, who you are and so do we, Charmont Webster- which is what really counts Tape, Lottie Weitzel, – and, not least, to the girls Victoria Wiltshire, Sonia themselves: Woolhouse.

Tim Soutar Athletics Report 15 Good to be Back in Europe: Our Girls Do Us Proud in Istanbul... the 2015 Champions Clubs Cup

After an unscheduled interruption for Friday prayers, there was to proceedings last year, we resumed still far too much to see in the limited time available. We our annual foray into Europe therefore made do with a visit in mid-September for this year’s to the underground Basilica Champion Clubs Cup for Juniors. Cistern – where some unusual fashion photo opportunities were sampled by some – and a tour of the Aya Sofiya (built generous provision of a as a church, converted to a seemingly limitless quantity of mosque and now, officially, a crisps. A win for England, if museum), before adjourning not a terribly convincing one, in small groups to a number of sent us off to bed in a positive local restaurants. frame of mind. The end of the afternoon Sizing up the opposition provided an opportunity for Saturday 18th Morning everyone to visit the track. This Saturday morning saw everyone had originally been built as the up bright and early – though warm up area for the adjacent one or two of the management Ataturk Olympic Stadium, but were, perhaps, not so bright: has recently been re-designed as clearly the effects of a surfeit of In keeping with, and a competition venue. Conditions crisps. As those involved in the perhaps even exceeding, the were always going to be on initial field events headed off to magical mystery transport the warm side, but we hadn’t the track soon after breakfast, arrangements of recent years, planned for the stiff breeze the temperature was already in by arriving at the City’s Sabiha that was in evidence (reaching the mid-20s and, unfortunately, Gokcen airport, we also +9m/s at one stage!), nor the the previous evening’s managed to visit Asia! After slick surface of the throwing headwind had not significantly a not inconsiderable delay in circle. But that’s why we do the decreased. It was to remain at retrieving Helena’s poles, and due diligence: we could now between 3m/s and 6m/s for the a lengthy (‘are we there yet?’) plan how best to address these rest of the day: there would not coach journey back across the problems and forewarned was be many PBs! Our opponents Bosphorus, which rivalled the definitely forearmed! were: the hosts, Fenerbahce worst of days on the M25, we Sport Club, and AK Olymp reached our hotel a little later Friday evening was spent in than planned, but, fortunately, contemplation of the following still in time for ‘dinner’. day’s competition. Some sought the distraction of the opening Sightseeing and rugby game of the Rugby World Cup watching Friday 17th on Eurosport with German Friday morning had been commentary. Certain members reserved for a sightseeing trip of the management team to the historical Sultanahmet considered it only appropriate district of the city. Even with while doing so to sample the the Blue Mosque being closed local beer and the President’s 16

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Brno from the Czech Republic (both of whom had beaten us in Brno in 2013) as well as Sparta AM from Denmark, Playas de Castellon of Spain, Pro Sesto Atletica from Hard earned points on As the afternoon began to Italy and the Slovenian and the track draw to a close, the final event Slovakian teams, AD Kladivar The first available points scheduled before the relays was and SK Sog Nitra. All we could on the track came in a high the 3000m, where Jess Keene now do was our best. quality 400H, where an under rounded off a very successful the weather Isabella Hilditch summer with an extremely Opening leaps and throws nevertheless secured a hard- gutsy, front-run win, taking in the field earned 5th. Niamh Bridson 50m out of the field in the Boosted by the receipt of a Hubbard went one better, first two laps and holding that good luck tweet from Jess picking up 4th in a tactical lead all the way to the tape. Ennis, though neither of them 800m, before Viv Olatunji, for Interviewed afterwards – it’s feature in the heptathlon, we so long the understudy to Dina all out there on You Tube – she started solidly in the opening Asher-Smith and the Hylton was asked when she realized field events, with Victoria twins, grabbed her chance to she had the race won. As is Wiltshire and Helena Coleman demonstrate what a fine sprinter often the case in life, it was both mastering the tricky she is and followed in their only later that she realized that conditions and finishing 4th, footsteps with a win in the what she could have replied in the hammer and pole vault, 100m. Further wins followed was: “I knew I had won the respectively. Jamiyla Robinson- from Cheriece Hylton: in her race when my team manager Pascal found the going rather own speciality, the 400m, and shouted at me to slow down tougher in the long jump and then, standing in for injured and save myself for the relay!’ a leap not too far from her Meanwhile, out in the field, season’s best was only good sister, Shannon, in the 200m. Divine’s jet lag had finally enough for 7th. The track In the interim, Georgina Taylor caught up with her, but she still programme kicked off with the made her debut in the 3000m ‘100m Extra’ (or non-scoring, if steeplechase, twice the distance threw the 4kg shot far enough you prefer) and an encouraging that she normally competes at, to secure 5th, the same placing win for Parris Johnson, with and called on all her reserves as Tabitha Lisciotto in the Magda Cienciala taking 4th. to make it home in 6th place. high jump. Things didn’t go Next up, Divine Oladipo, fresh Niamh also returned to contest smoothly either for Ali Higgins (or perhaps not so fresh!) from the 1500 and fought back in the javelin. Having brought her recent trip to Samoa for the bravely up the home straight Commonwealth Youth Games, to secure 3rd. Molly Scott was produced a fine 2nd place in the another venturing outside her discus, despite the wind playing comfort zone: in only her 2nd havoc with her flight, and competitive outing over the Annie Davies wrested 3rd in a U20 heights, and into what must very competitive triple jump, have felt like the teeth of a gale, where the difference between she finished a very creditable 2nd and 6th was a mere 15cm. 4th in the sprint hurdles. Athletics Report 17

had already raced no fewer than of a problem except, once 5,900m during the afternoon again, for the poles. If you’ve – and they were just pipped for never carried pv poles through 5th on the line, with the Czech an airport (through passport quartet winning impressively. control, all the way to the There ensued a good ten original, and then the revised, her favoured spear all the way minutes of uncertainty during boarding gate and then on a from Guernsey, it wasn’t held which basic arithmetic skills bus out to the ‘plane – were to be compliant and she had to were stress-tested as attempts they going to be put in the use one of the pool implements. were made to reconcile and aisle?), get it on your bucket Undaunted, a solid series, just project forward from the list, as it’s quite an experience! below her best for the season, interim points scores that had Definitely better than saw her finish 6th. been published. Resigned to searching for a lost passport, as happened on our last trip! Bring on the relay teams having finished 4th, it was thus to keep 3rd place a great feeling to discover we’d The verdict actually hung on to finish in With just the relays left to the medals by ½ a point! Cue This was a truly impressive be contested, things were much celebration, presentations result from a very young team: becoming, as they say, and photo-taking. only two of the girls will be too ‘interesting’! While it would old to take part next year and have taken a major disaster Much of the early evening we had a number of girls who on their part for us to have seemed to be spent in the were good enough but had to overhauled the Turks, and stadium car park waiting for be left at home as they were it was unlikely we’d catch transport back to the hotel. too young to compete this year. the Danes – where did they Once back, the President and Twelve months is a long time come from (apart from Team Manager were sent out in athletics, but we embark Denmark!)? – we were lying to reconnoitre possible venues on next year’s road to Europe 3rd, a handful of points ahead for the evening’s entertainment, from a very good place! but they failed to find any. It of the Czechs. Even without It only remains to thank all was thus a case of making our the Twins (competition rules those who helped make the trip limit everyone to three events, own within the hotel. For some, such a success: the management so Cheriece had to sit this one this involved a reflection, with team and supporters; coaches out), we knew we had a good the aid of more beer but fewer (those present and those left sprint relay squad (thanks, as crisps, on the day’s performance at home); all those who helped ever, to John Blackie) and, and how we might do even fund the trip and, of course, with a demonstration of better next year! For others, the girls themselves (including leg speed and workmanlike well that’s another story! those who didn’t travel but changes, their baton was duly The joys of travelling home made sure we qualified last delivered across the line by year!). Viv (following sterling work Sunday 19th from Parris, Molly and Magda) There was little time for Tim Soutar in first place. Not giving up anything on Sunday morning without a fight, AK Olymp other than breakfast and Brno followed us home in packing. The journey to 2nd, but we’d gained another Istanbul’s other main airport point. Our 4 x 400m team was, thankfully, much shorter, (Niamh, Leah, Cheriece and but Ataturk International was Jess) comprised some very tired much busier. We nevertheless athletes – between them, they checked in without too much 18 Kent Young Athletes League 2015

often over shadowed by the good distance but was marked more visible track races but down as a no throw on a Harry’s performances prove technicality! With a throw how important they are as he that could have put him in the scored 26 points for the club, top 20, we will definitely be nearly 20% of the total points working on that one! scored. Tareq made up for the shot Sean Lancaster continues to disappointment by storming score valuable points for the down the home straight on club putting the shot just shy the final leg of the relay. Medway Park – 10th May of his best Archie Shipley Sam Reardon made up for Blackheath and Bromley U13 tried his hand at hurdling his disappointment of being and U15 boys and girls were for the first time and was knocked off the top of the once again triumphant in rewarded with a win in the B Parkrun grand prix league Sunday’s Kent league, fixture string. Archie then produced table (by a girl!) by running No2, at a sunny but blowy another personal best, two new personal bests in the Medway Park. Our President shaving a couple of tenths off 200m sprint and the tough two and first lady, Dave and his 100m time, placing second lap 800m. Sam knocked well Hanna Cordell were at the in the B string. over a second off his 200mm running a rapid 27.88 and track early and selected the A good series of jumps with a had a strong race winning the best possibly site for the club best of 4.17, was good enough 800m in 2:27.87. Sam was also tent, out of the wind but with for 3rd in the long jump and a great sunny aspect. On to the lead off leg in the relay Archie finished his day with the action and loads of great team and had a good series of a rapid sprint down the back performances contributed to jumps in the long jump. straight as the relay boys BBHAC comfortably winning posted their fastest time of Rowan Fuss had a busy hour the overall combined match the year and a win. and three quarters squeezing by over 80 points. The U13 in three events, starting with boys produced 17 personal Jacob Byfield improved his a second place in the 200m best performances, had two 75m hurdle best by over a before dominating the 800m boys competing on the track second (he must be getting and running a strong but for BBHAC the first time some great coaching?), was totally controlled 2:22.46. and were top of the U13 boys just short of his best in the After barely catching his league table. long and high jump but had a breath it was over to the javelin Harry Cowie was first to great second bend in helping where he manged to get in a compete and started his day the relay team to victory. fantastic 25.90 on his second well with a personal best Tareq Bannour ran two attempt, also finishing second. 18.05 to finish 3rd in the great new personal bests in hammer. This was followed the 100m (12.52) and 200m by another personal best (26.05) to place himself coming 2nd in the shot before 2nd and 3rd in the National finishing the day winning the rankings, not bad for a 12 Javelin B string with a throw year old. Tareq also used his of 19.09. Field events are strength to put the shot a Athletics Report 19

Barnaby Corry, in his first winning the discus with a year was another busy athlete great 24.35, putting the shot starting his day early with a 7.57 and launching the javelin good run over the hurdles 15.07. Michael is a great new followed by a PB in the 200m addition to the team. Harry Ethan Kitteridge had and a big 5m improvement Cowie also had a great day in another busy day starting in the javelin. Thomas the field, despite having his with a personal best in the Penlington was also making biggest discus throw ruled 75m hurdles ( could be the his track debut for the club illegal as it landed just outside coaching!). A timetable clash and was also involved in the the sector. However, Harry again gave Ethan the difficult 800m running a very good still won the B string with job of doing both the 800m 2:35.54 in his first ever club 20.96, threw 7.87 in the shot and high jump at the same track race. and 22.16 in the Javelin. It time but with the 800m With a great number of U13 was good to see Harry and completed, just out side his boys competing for the club Michael practising their long best, it was straight over to we were able to field a second and triple jumps in between the high jump (after a fast 4 x 100m relay team, so it was their throws ready for other number change). A couple of great experience for Ethan, competitions to come! Sean clearances later but a slight Barnaby, Jake and Thomas as Lancaster was just short of disappointment for Ethan they safely and skilfully got his best in the discus and shot just below his best. It might the baton around the track in but still had a good series of throws in the discus 17.73 be good one day for Ethan to a very respectable time. high jump on a fresh pair of and shot 4.72. legs and with a steady pulse! Kent YA League Jacob Byfield began his busy Norman Park – 14th June Jake Leng made his debut day with a new personal best on the track despite Norman Park was packed in the hurdles knocking half taking most of the skin with athletes, officials and a second off his time. Jacob off his knee and elbow in spectators as Blackheath and then threw himself over 4m training on Thursday when Bromley HAC hosted the in the long jump and 1.25m a hurdle got in his way! third fixture in this season in the air over the high jump Jake’s only concern as he Kent young athletes league. bar for another great PB. hobbled his way over to the Many great performances His last effort of the day was compassionate Ken Daniel ensured BB finished on top part of the winning 4 x 100m (our first aider, amongst winning three of the four age relay team. other things) was that he groups contested by U13 and would still be able to hurdle U15 boys and girls. The U13 at the weekend. So lining boys dominated in many areas up on the start, with fresh getting clean sweeps in the scabs aplenty, it was great to discus, 1500m, and 200m and see Jake finish safely and in achieving loads of personal a very good time. Jake also best throughout the day. ran a very competitive 800m Michael Burfoot, on only finishing with speed down his second appearance for the home straight in 2:36.18. the club had a great day 20

Continued

Tareq Bannour was head the home straight. Sam also and shoulders above the used his sprint legs winning opposition in the 100m and the B string 200m and leading 200m running very near to the relay team off in their his best and had the lovely job winning run. of bringing the team home to Rowan Fuss, despite a recent victory in the relay. illness showed his class in the It was great to have Leo 1500 m leading from gun to McCallum back in the team finish, equalling his best and Ethan Kitteridge also had after a few weeks off with strengthening his grasp on a busy but successful day injury and he hasn’t lost any top of the National rankings. getting two PBs and equaling form sprinting down the Rowan also showed his another. He began with a new home straight in the 100m just sprinting prowess powering best in the hurdles breaking outside his best ever. Leo also round the bend in the 200m 16 seconds for the first time ran the last leg of the B team and down the straight in a before clearing 1.30 in the relay and seems now to have rapid 28.40. Rowan was also high jump, matching his best. fully recovered from injury. part of the victorious relay The high jump started late team and managed the get and so overlapped the javelin Exam season ties many of the athletes up but it was great a big javelin big in as well, competition and the relay but 24.07 to win the A string. Ethan just about had enough that Archie Shipley could mix both and turned up to time to throw a big new best Kent Young Athletes League compete in the long jump of 18m but then dashed off 5th July posting three consistent jumps again to run in the B team Blackheath and Bromley HAC all over 4m with the longest relay. young athletes proved they being 4.20 just shy of his best. Jake Leng bounced back are the best team in Kent by to form also breaking 16 Thomas Penlington threw winning the Kent league title seconds for the first time in himself in the deep end at Erith yesterday and such the hurdles. He then had a running in the 1500m and is our strength and depth gutsy run in the 1500m, the the doing the long jump, both that our second team also first time over the distance at the same time. However, gained promotion to the top in a BB vest. Jake also played the task didn’t bother him as league. After four matches a part in the relay B team he ran a very strong personal throughout the summer the leading the team off. best in 1500m and managed U13 and U15 combined boys Another busy athlete was to get a jump in either side of and girls team finished firmly Barnaby Corry competing his track race. at the top of the Kent Young in four events, starting with Sam Reardon continues to Athletes League. In addition a determined run over the race well as he cruised to a our division 2 team finished hurdles, a consistent series of strong new personal best and second in the table and so leaps in the high jump and a victory in a closely fought gain promotion to Division rapid sprint in the 100m dash. but tough 1500m. Sam never 1, making for an interesting Barnaby completed his day seems to give up, as his season next summer with lots running the second bend in competitors found out, as of head to head encounters to the B team relay. they tried to out sprint him look forward to. Athletics Report 21

Harry Cowie had another busy the 200m in 26.06 then ran a day in the field throwing two quick final leg in the 4 x 100m new personal bests in winning relay. Leo McCallum, recently the B string discus and in the back from injury, showed great shot. His third place in the form sprinting down the track A string hammer was just in both the 100m and 200m short of his best but still won and lead the team home to The U13 boys were once valuable team points. Michael victory in the relay. again a solid team and Burfoot added nearly a metre were bolstered by debut Next seasons U13 boys are to his shot put best winning performances from new boys looking good as yet another a tough shot competition and Kyron Morgan and Alex first year Barnaby Corry also his 9.68 places him equal 12th Sibley. Kyron, having only just had an event filled day. A Nationally. Michael made it joined BBHAC, had a busy PB equalling 100m sprint a clean sweep winning the A day sandwiching his athletic followed a half a metre discus just 10cm short of his events in between dance improvement in the long best. performances at Crystal Palace jump, just below his best in in the London Youth Games. First year in the age group the high jump and a good start Having won the Kent schools Thomas Penlington had off leg in the relay. I’m not 100m, running for Bromley, it his busiest day yet starting sure who was more tired at the was no surprise to see Kyron with a 2nd place debut in end of the day his 5 year old sister Luna or his dad Nic!! win the 100m in a fast 12.68 the hurdles, a PB in the long and the 200m (his very first jump and remarkable one, one Jacob Byfield was due to 200m) in a comfortable 27.29. hundredth of a second off his compete all over the arena Showing his versatility he then best in the 800m. Finishing but a sore knee after a fall and put the shot over 9m, placing his great day with a leg in the the prospect of a big primary him firmly inside the top 10 in relay. Also in his first year and school meeting on Monday the country. having a busy day was Sam saw him only compete in two Reardon. A strong 2nd in events. However, a great PB Alex Sibley, in his first club the 200m, a gutsy win in the run in the 200m and a fast race and in his first year in 800m followed by a PB in the back straight leg in the relay the age group showed great high jump, rounded off with kept him busy enough. character and strength as he the lead out leg in the relay. held of fierce competition Paul Austridge at the start of the 800m. Sean Lancaster, also in his Alex could have easily been first year scored great points daunted and knocked off in the field placing 2nd in the his feet as the eight runners shot put and 3rd in the discus. bustled for position on the Ethan Kitteridge started first bend but instead he his busy day hurdling then fought like an experienced jumping 1.30 in the high jump middle distance racer using before running the third leg strong arms and elbows. in the 4 x 100 relay. Pleased with a personal best Tareq Bannour continued his he then ran a good leg in the impressive consistent form winning relay team. winning the 100m in 12.75 and 22 Under 13 and Under 15 Girls Summer Season 2015

in Division 1 and one in A highly satisfying summer Division 2. Some of the girls season in which “Blackheath were new to competition and and Bromley Under 15 Girls many were giving new events are officially the best team in a try. It was a cold and windy England 2015”. day but everyone competed to the best of their ability. In Division One the U15 Girls and Under 13 Girls came first and in Division 2 the U15 Girls came third with the Under 13s second which made us second overall. was on home soil at Norman The second fixture was the Park and again there were first YDL of the season at a large number of athletes Southampton on 2 May. competing. We came first by Again on a cold day we had 40 points which put us joint a large number of athletes leaders with Southampton. competing and we finished The third Kent League the day in second place just 8 fixture was also held on home points behind Southampton soil and we had our biggest which put us in a good number of athletes competing position for the rest of the Having won the Southern yet, with many of them again season. League Champions title they trying different events. qualified for the National Next came the second Kent In Division One the U13 Final in Birmingham, whilst League Fixture at Medway Girls came 6th with the in the Kent League the Under Park on 10th May. We again Under 15 Girls coming 1st so 13 Girls were Division one had a large number of athletes making us first overall and in winners and in Division competing in scoring and Division Two Under 13s were two the second teams were non-scoring events with a promoted. Thanks to the large number of relay teams. contributions of a large pool In Division One the U15 of athletes as well as the back Girls came first but the Under up team they were able do 13 girls came a disappointing gain distinction in the Final 5th (A number of the under in a highly competitive field. 13s were new and trying out The season started in great events, some to build on for fashion with the first of 4 the rest of the season) but we Kent League Fixtures at were first overall. In Division Ashford on 19th April. 2 both the Under 15s and 13s We had a large number of came second. athletes competing with two On 30th May we had the teams in each age group one second YDL fixture this Athletics Report 23

on. At the end of the day we waited with great anticipation for the result as the lead had changed a number of times during the day. We were second by just 9 points to Edinburgh AC. Blackheath and Bromley Under 15 Girls and Boys are officially the best team in England 2015. Blackheath and Bromley Under 15 Girls and Boys are officially the best I would like to thank team in England 2015 everyone involved in making the season possible, of course third and Under 15s 1st so we 2nd in this division and this the athletes and Parents, came second overall. means our second teams are Coaches, Team Managers and promoted to Division One The next fixture was the 3rd Officials. I would also like to next season. So we have two YDL fixture at Reading on thank Mr and Mrs President teams in Division One for 21st June and we travelled Dave and Hannah Cordell both Girls and Boys. there with high hopes for for getting to each fixture carrying on our winning Our last YDL fixture was early, putting up the club tent ways. This was a hard fought at Croydon on 18th July this thus making sure we have fixture with the lead changing again a great match with a somewhere dry for us all. a number of times during number of athletes pulling out the day by a few points. We all the stops. We ended the Karen Desborough came second in the end just day in second place by just 2.5 five and a half points behind points. But this result meant Under 13 Girls Team Southampton. All to play for we were Southern League Rosanna Allan, Rashidah in the last fixture. Champions and were off to the Final in Birmingham on Ayinbode, Rene Bel- Our last Kent League Fixture 5th September. Monodu, Ella Brown, was at Erith 5th July and Kendaa Cameron- The Final in Birmingham was again we had a large number Chavannes, Ellie Dolby, a great event which started of athletes taking part and Olivia English, Heidi with a coach journey from the still trying different events for Forsyth, Daniella Harper, Club House on Friday. There points. Olivia Howlett, Abigail were a lot of excited athletes Leeves, Niamh Milmo, In Division One the Under a number of who had not Holly Mpassy, Jessica 13 Girls were 2nd with the competed in a Final before. Under 15 Girls 2nd but were Neal, Ella Osborn, After a good night sleep (for Shakanya Osahon, Abigail first overall and League some) the athletes were raring Prifti, Emily Purser, Winners in this division along to go. Each and every one of Akeiyla Robinson-Pascal,. with the Boys. them competed to the best Ella Smith, Morgan In Division Two the Under 13 of their ability and more and Squibb, Eva Stephanou, girls were first with the Under were all encouraging and Holly Sutton-Trott 15 Girls 1st as well, we came cheering their fellow athletes 24 U15 Boys Season 2015 Review

matches. The boys supported When I was asked to write and encouraged each other a review of the track season throughout the whole season I reflected on how best to and showed the importance of summarise the achievements team spirit (more on this later). of the year. Rather than Whilst on the subject bring together a summary of of throws, the level of the different match reports performances in the javelin I thought a summary of was also outstanding! We highlights would allow me to were lucky to have four better reflect the outstanding throwers who were ranked achievements of the boys and hence the club. Apologies up as some of the best in the front if there is anyone I don’t country leaving me with a Henry-James in action – mention but I think most of team manager’s dilemma on unbeaten over 4 x 300m you know how proud I was of more than one occasion. The consistently high levels of to compete and finished all of the athletes throughout ranked second in the UK at the season. performance from everyone selected to compete was a joy the end of the season. The to behold! whole squad was, quite simply outstanding. Middle distance domination I made it no secret that I BBHAC have a great history wanted the boys to set a new of outstanding middle club record and they did at the distance runners and we were YDL final when a combination fortunate to continue this of Henry-James, Ben Sutton, throughout the season. In Ben Bennett and Peter Guy addition to the ‘home banker’ powered round for a 60m YDL Final Presentation – of Henry-James Cowie victory and a new club record. we are the best club in England! who was outstanding over Job done I thought but the two laps we were fortunate boys decided to go one better In no particular order my to have Peter Guy, Angus at the Kent championships highlights are as follows: Harrington, Michael Eagling, where Coleman, Henry-James, Joe Georgiadis, Keir Lundy Tom Mills and Ben Sutton Outstanding throwing! and Coleman Correy to name decided to take another chunk So often the heavy throws but a few to maintain our off the record. This was a are consigned to the ‘nether- reputation for excellence. fantastic way for the team to regions’ of the track and Determination, speed and round off the season! field time table which was sheer class are only some of a real shame for the boys the adjectives I could use to who competed this season. describe the efforts everyone A combination of James put in to their races. Lancaster, Charlie Short and Nathan Sureshkumar 4 x 300m relay team(s) insured that BBHAS set the We went through the whole benchmark for the rest of season unbeaten in the longer the team totally dominating relay which is a credit to all both the KYAL and YDL of the boys who were asked Henry-James and Peter win again! Athletics Report 25

High jumpers! We were fortunate to have an outstanding squad of high Henry-James shows his versatility jumpers throughout the season Kent 3 x 800m Champions and which allowed me to start with club record holders Other relays the older age group boys for A number of athletes had the first couple of matches and Dhir down in the home straight the opportunity to compete then to continue to ‘blood’ the in his first run over 300m. I at the anniversary games younger boys as the season wasn’t sure who would have at the Olympic Stadium, a progressed. A combination of crossed the line first if Ben great experience for all of Henry-James, Coleman and hadn’t tripped but what a way them. In addition to this, we Ben Edozie at the upper end to make your mark. Vishnu also consistently improved in the of the age group and then Rico set a season’s best in the race sprint relay throughout the Cottell, Pedro Gleadall and which he won! season and I sense we will set Caelan Raju who will still be They proved a rich source of new standards in 2016. U15 this year all developed and new members with a number Another challenge I set the improved their bests. of boys joining or being asked boys was the 3 x 800m relay (I Credit to Rico who managed to to join after impressing in know, I was greedy). I spoke beat one of the Southampton these events! to the 800m runners who athletes who had won every Selfishly, as a team manager, appreciated that it was rare single high jump competition being able to check who was to have such a good group he had entered at the Croydon doing what via Power of 10 YDL only a few weeks after together at the same time so made my life so much easier. the first time I ‘persuaded’ we targeted the Kent Relay him to give the event a try. An KYAL Championships to put this outstanding performance. The KYAL is designed to record to bed for a few years. give as many of the athletes On the day, a team of Henry- Pole vault expertise as possible the opportunity James, Coleman and Angus George and Lewis consistently to compete and to try new smashed the club and Kent improved throughout the events. To summarise, we record with an outstanding season, quietly ‘strutting their dominated and won division stuff’ on the back straight. I time of 6:24.53. I think we one and were so strong that was able to assess how well they were also close to the UK our second division team were were doing by their absence also promoted to division one. record but what a way to end from the club tent, simply the season! This was as a result of terrific because they were always in the performances from all of you mix as the bar went higher. who competed. Open meetings I am unable to name check everyone who set best performances in the various open meetings but hope that all of the athletes realise how important these are as they continue to develop and improve as athletes. There were too many great performances to Coleman and James dominate the shout out but one that did was throws! Ben Bennett chasing Vishnu Peter, Angus and Robert finish in front in another 800m race 26 Athletics Report

Continued

YDL final and to commiserate when This was the pinnacle of the things didn’t go as well as season with so many of the they had hoped. To you all, boys showing how much they a huge thank you – I am had improved throughout looking forward to working the year. The day was a roller with you again this season! coaster of emotions for me – Thank you! the team as a whole worked so A massive thank you to hard for each other and there everyone who contributed to were so many performances making the season happen. to be proud of so finishing Angus wins the YDL 1500m final I don’t think we thank the second to Edinburgh left the threat that they might coaches enough for giving up me feeling I had let the boys have to cancel the hammer. A their time to help develop the down. Had I made the right number of protestations from athletes in the way they do – calls at the right time! all clubs saying that all of the without their dedication and However, after a few athletes had earned the right commitment we would not moments of wallowing in to compete resulted in the have the fine sport and club self-pity I could see that they right decision being made and we have. had all given everything they the timetable being adjusted to Also, a thank you to all of had and was immensely proud allow this. the officials who run the of our achievements. Let’s try and go one better open meetings and leagues – this year! without this group we would not have the sport we all love. Feels like team spirit I think I have left the best Parents, thank you for and most important takeaway bringing your sons down on a for me of the season to regular basis, for encouraging the end. I was genuinely them and for being used at overwhelmed at the way the times like a taxi service. Your whole team came together to commitment to their sport support, help, coach, cajole has helped make them the fine athletes they are. Told you they wouldn’t catch us! and mentor each other over the course of the year. Last but not least (and The match itself had a number We have a number of hugely repeating myself here), a huge of highlights but I will always talented athletes who have thank you to all of the athletes remember the ‘champagne’ come together as an amazing – you should be proud of all moment where Angus gave group of boys/young men you have achieved! Zak from Southampton a who were a pleasure to work Nick Swatton masterclass in 1,500m running, with. I was told a number of showing what a class athlete times that it must be hard to he is, Henry-James dominating manage a track team – not the 800m and a fantastic 4 x with this group it wasn’t. 300m relay (and club record) at They all showed maturity the end of the event. beyond their years and could I was equally pleased that the always be relied on to be in league allowed the hammer to the right place at the right go ahead after the normal cage time. They were there for sank into the ground leaving each other to share success Feels like team spirit Athletics Report 27 U13 boys Kent League Ashford

Sam Reardon had a busy debut pleased with his performance The new track season kicked day having first played for and his great team spirit. off in style at the Julie Rose his local football team in the Ethan Kitteridge, on his stadium in Ashford with morning. Sam, a first year U13 debut was also involved the first track and field ran a strong 1500 m winning in the delayed high jump match of the Kent league the B string in 5:01.7, broke competition and with good 2015. Blackheath and 30 seconds for 200 m coming numbers watching enjoyed Bromley HAC had eight 2nd in the B string, managed success up to 1.15 just boys competing in the U13 to squeeze in one jump in clipping the bar at 1.20. boys age group, 6 of whom the long jump and finished Ethan did well to get off were making their club track his day with a great leg in the the ground at all having debuts. victorious relay team. run the 75m hurdles in the Jacob Byfield, another first morning and the 1500m in Tareq Bannour dominated the year U13 making his debut 5:29.0 shortly before the high sprints, comfortably winning showed great promise, (as did jump. Ethan finished his both the 100m and 200m and his dad Paul 30 years ago!). day with a great second leg also brought the relay team Jacob began with a strong in the winning relay team. home to victory. Tareq’s 200m run over the hurdles coming Sean Lancaster in his first performance was a grade 1 2nd in the B string, jumped year made a great start to standard run and currently an impressive 3.82 in the long his athletics career coming places him 2nd fastest boy in jump and ran the third leg in second in the A string discus the country. A fantastic early the winning relay team. and showed great team spirit season achievement and a great The U13 boys team is full of having a go at the shot despite debut. Rowan Fuss also ran a talented, enthusiastic athletes, never lifting a shot before, but grade 1 performance, winning all willing to give events a gained more valuable points a very controlled and evenly go, if required and Barnaby for the club. Blackheath paced 1500 m in 4:39.6. Earlier Corry was a fine example of and Bromley U13 boys were in the day Rowan had clocked this doing everything asked second on the day just 6 15.1 in the 75m hurdles of him and more. Barnaby, points behind Tonbridge AC showing his range of talents. first year U13 started with his but when combined with the Leo McCallum was having debut run over the hurdles, U15 boys and girls teams we a great morning, running stepped up to throw a javelin came out on top winning the close to his best in the 100m to gain extra valuable points first fixture by over 24 points. and jumping a personal for the team before being Paul Austridge best in the long jump, but a involved in an exciting high swollen ankle forced Leo to jump competition that had reluctantly pull out of the been delayed for an hour 200m and relay. Leo wasn’t and half, due to an athlete concerned for himself but needing medical assistance he didn’t want to let the on the high jump fan. Unlike team down. Hopefully Leo most events the high jump will recover quickly and we finishes on a failure so look forward to seeing him athletes are often dejected competing again very soon. but Barnaby should be very 28 U13 boys UK Development League

Southampton 2nd May 2015 example to the other boys. 3 laps to go. A steady rhythm Southampton played host Tareq is currently ranked 5th saw Sam and the Reading to the first fixture of this Nationally in both the 100m athlete pull away from the season UKYDL lower age and 200m. rest of the field but with the group on a cold blowy day, Ethan Kitteridge proved Reading lad poised ready to far removed from last years to be a tough competitor attack. Sam sensed this as the mini heat wave. Eight U13 excelling in two events both paced quickened down the Blackheath and Bromley at the same time. Having home straight, both athletes boys put in a great team and cleared the opening height were now at full pace with individual effort to help the of 1.05 and 1.10 in the high positions jostling back and overall team to a solid 2nd jump Ethan then dashed to forth, before one final effort place on the day, only 8 points the start of the 800m where and a dip had Sam as winner behind Southampton, who he stormed off in determined but recording exactly the took advantage of their home fashion, crossing the line in same time as second place. A fixture. A few last minute 3rd having just run a great fantastic race and even more changes were taken in stride personal best. Then without special having just knocked as the boys rallied collectively a chance to catch his breath it off another 9 seconds from to try and fill all places both was back to the high jump for his newly acquired PB and on the track and in the field. Ethan where the competition going under 5 minutes for Tareq Bannour showed again had moved on and the bar the 1st time 4:52.2. Sam only that he is going to be hard to was now at a lofty 1.25. With had a few minutes rest before beat this year as he powered seemingly little effort Ethan Paul Byfield started the relay to victory in both the 100m flew over the bar and he was drills that ultimately helped (12.9) and 200m (26.5) and then able to start to recover the team to finish a strong made up several places in the from his two lap race. A great 2nd with Sam running a great relay to secure a great second competition saw Ethan clear first bend. place. Tareq showed his the next height as well to Jacob Byfield proved that commitment to the team and finish with a big new personal training pays off as he great character stepping up best, a great double effort. produced another personal to do the javelin having never Three of the boys competing best in the 75m hurdles. All thrown one before, a great are still at primary school and Jacob’s practice over the have another year in the age hurdles will soon have him group so it was great to see hurdling like his dad and we brilliant performances from are sure to see many more PB’s Sam Reardon, Jacob Byfield coming from this naturally and Barnaby Corry. agile hurdler. Soon after, Jacob Sam started his day smiling lined up for the long jump all the way through the 200m where his consistency paid off posting a new personal best with three big jumps, a new time and a 2nd place finish. best of 4.17 and a great second Next up was the difficult place. Jacob also ran a fast top task of running the A string bend, running the third leg of 1500m, where he found the second placed 4 x 100m himself leading the pack with relay team. Athletics Report 29

putting the shot just shy Norman Park 30th May 2015 of his best. Blackheath & A buzzing Norman Park was Bromley had two U13 boys the venue for Blackheath making their club debuts in and Bromley HAC’s home Southampton both scoring fixture in this season’s UK loads of points for the team. youth development league Sprinter Archie Shipley began and the fantastic atmosphere his day with a quick dash there was matched by the down the track coming 3rd fantastic winning result. in the 100m, before putting Our first place yesterday has in three consistent 4m-plus us sitting at the top of the jumps in the long jump. league on equal match points Archie’s furthest jump of with Southampton. With the top two teams at the end 4.23 was good enough to of the season going to the Barnaby Corry stood up and finish second in the B string. National final in Birmingham got counted as his duties Archie’s speed then helped in September, we need to changed as the day proceeded, the relay team, where he ran keep up the high standard to another great example to the the second leg down the long secure our place. team. Barnaby started his day back straight. Paul Byfield’s with a determined run over relay drills certainly helped as Numbers were slightly the hurdles before taking on the baton was safely passed depleted for the U13 boys his new favourite event, the from Sam to Archie to Jacob due to holidays, injuries and high jump. After a great warm and finally to Tareq. illness, however the eight up Barnaby was unlucky not boys who made up the team to clear his best but with Our other debutant was put on a sterling effort, more training will soon be Harry Cowie, (whose older recording many personal soaring over new heights. brother Henry does a bit bests and filling all spaces. Barnaby’s final effort of the of running, jumping and New member Michael day was a huge one running throwing!) and his first Burfoot, having only recently the 1500m for the very first outing was very successful joined the club, produced two time. As Barnaby rounded the putting the shot over 7m great performances on his BB top bend for the final time and the javelin over 20m debut. In the shot put Micheal he sprinted down the home chalking up more vital points threw a big 8.32 placing straight like a 400m runner for BBHAC. Not content him just outside the top 20 and crossed the line collecting with just throwing Harry put in the country and threw a even more valuable points for himself forward for the non personal best in the javelin. the team. scoring 100m giving him the This was Micheal’s first U13 boy Sean Lancaster, opportunity to prove that javelin competition and two watching his brother James throwers can run as well. This days before was the first time score maximum points, team performance matched Michael had actually thrown winning the U15 discus, last seasons start and we look a javelin, after a few valuable hammer and shot put, had forward to building on this pointers from coach Herbie. another good day also scoring with our ultimate goal being Great to have Michael in the valuable points for the team to reach the National final. team. Harry Cowie had only 30

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been back in the country for a couple of hours after a school trip to France but was soon heading to Norman Park to compete in the Javelin. His efforts were well worth it as he threw a great new best of 22.76m. Ethan Kitteridge cut short just over 17 minutes before to his tally of match points. his important Band practice dominating the 1500m Sam’s final effort was running to help the team out and run cruising around to win in a leg two of the 4 x 100m relay. in the early hurdles event seasons best 4:32.1.Rowan Tareq Bannour continues to and was rewarded with a then warmed down, sprinting show why he is ranked in the new PB having run a very the lead-off leg in the 4 x top 3 in the country with great balanced race. After a short 100m team who ultimately performances in the 100m break it was back to doubling placed second but ran another (12.9) and 200m (26.0) both up with the 800m and high season’s best time. of which he won comfortably. jump, both at the same time. Archie Shipley had a very His personal best in the 200m This is not ideal but Ethan busy PB busting day starting was matched by a brand new coped well, getting in a with a personal best in the best in the shot put with a couple of jumps early before 75m hurdles followed by big 8.31 winning the B string heading out onto the track another PB coming second in event. Tareq’s last run of the and winning valuable points the B string 100m, followed day was powering down the for the team in the A string by another PB coming second home straight as the last leg in 800m, just running outside in the A string long jump. the relay team. his best time. Archie finished his successful Not only was the track and Barnaby Corry also took on day running the third leg of field athletics excellent so the tough task of doing both the relay team. was the performances of 800m and high jump at the Sam Reardon also had a very BB members and parents same time and did well, just busy day, although this was as they set up and manned missing out on a PB but like looking unlikely as Sam took a second hand kit stall, the Ethan earning valuable points a heavy knock to the knee for the team Hopefully Ethan during hurdle training on and Barnaby will soon be Thursday. An ice pack and a able to fully concentrate on days rest did wonders as Sam the high jump where I’m sure stormed around the bend they will soar to new heights. coming second in the B string Rowan Fuss has been injured 200m. Sam then squeezed in a in recent months but it’s quick long jump competition great to have him back fully before having to go to the fit. Rowan used the Bromley start of the 1500m. Another parkrun to warm up in the gutsy but controlled race saw morning, strolling around in Sam win the B string adding Athletics Report 31

BBQ and the refreshment some brilliant stall selling lovely bacon parents, all of rolls. President Dave Cordell whom were there started preparing the track the supporting both week before and many were at their sons and the track at the crack of dawn Blackheath and pitching tents, filling hot Bromley HAC. water urns and priming the Michael Burfoot’s BBQ. The parent council set parents David up a fantastic stall selling new and Lynn helped and second hand kit, spikes out on the BBQ and trainers for ridiculously and clothing stall, cheap prices raising over £200 Archie’s dad Adam also took in 3rd behind Southampton and giving loads of people his turn flipping burgers. AC and Reading but only a real bargain. Many thanks Ethan’s mum Teresa did a a few points adrift. As the go to Claire (my lovely wife!), stint on the 2nd hand clothes afternoon progressed Reading Sue Pope, Isobel Harrington, stand while dad Mike flipped and Southampton swapped Belinda Bridge and Charlotte burgers and turned sausages. places, but we remained in Stickings for all their efforts Sam’s mum Marilyn did her 3rd. After some great track on the friday evening and turn on the clothes stand and results and loads of fantastic Saturday. The Leach family of dad John enjoyed his time throws and jumps in the Trevor, Wendy, Dan and Amy cooking burgers. At the end field we briefly took the lead made and sold over 100 bacon of the day many parents and but soon dropped back to rolls, teas, coffees and various BB members packed away 2nd with only 2 relays and 2 other goodies raising over the tents and at the forefront javelin results to come in. £700. Alison Brand, Dave was Barnaby’s dad Nick and A few hardy supporters White, Dick Griffin and many Emily Purser’s dad Mark, waited patiently while the last other Heathens cooked and having spent the day on the results were typed into the sold dozens of burgers and track officiating. computer, all eagerly waiting sausage and raised over £500. for confirmation of the final Nearly £1500 was raised by Reading 21st June 2015 result. Eventually the result all our volunteers, a truly The third fixture of the 2015 was announced and had BB fantastic effort. Many thanks UKYDL was held inside the in 2nd place just five and half to everyone. Palmer Park cycle track that points behind Southampton. Well done to Ken Daniel and is home to Reading AC. With We were a little disappointed his team for presenting the a few late withdrawals due but ultimately happy with track to such a high standard to illness and some absent a solid result, all things and the results service was the competing for schools, we considered. best I have seen and this was knew the day was going to However, later that evening, thanks to Rob Brown, Steve be tough. It turned out to be after the results had been Hollingdale, Andy Tucker and tougher and closer than any double checked by the Wendy Daniel among others. one could have imagined. Reading result team it seems This small but successful U13 After 10 events Blackheath we actually WON the match boys team are backed up by and Bromley were trailing by the smallest of margins, 32

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half a point. Scrutinising the new personal bests. Archie’s 200m and the 100m before results it seems Southampton last effort was a quick leg taking on the final leg in the 4 were initially awarded 35 down the back straight in x 100m relay. Leo was walking points for supplying officials the 4 x 100 relay. Michael normally after his exploits so but should have only been Burfoot put the shot 8.78 for I’m pleased to say he is fully awarded 30. This highlights a big PB and then turned a recovered from his injury now. how important and vital difficult javelin competition Ethan Kitteridge had his our team of officials and into success with a last usual day compacting two volunteer parents really are. round throw of 18.35 to gain events into one slot. Starting This fantastic result sees us valuable points for the club at the high jump Ethan got sitting at the top of the league and another PB. an early jump in to open his with one fixture remaining. Harry Cowie continues to account before jogging down If we compete like this at impress not only with his the track ready to take on Croydon on the 18th July, we throwing ability in the Shot the tough 2 lap 800m. After will surely be going to the and Javelin (and discus) but another gutsy run he crossed National final in Birmingham with his attitude towards the line near to his best. on September 5th. competition, gaining Barely time for a breather The U13 boys were once experience and getting fitter. before jogging back to the again up for the challenge Harry asked if there were high jump and seeing the bar and willing to take on any non scoring events and had risen to personal best whatever was asked of them when told “ sorry only 800m height of 1.30! Not put off by for the team. The day started available” his reply was “yes this Ethan propelled himself with a personal best from please I’ll do that”. Harry did high into the air, sailing over Jacob Byfield in the hurdles, indeed do the 800m, running the bar with a comfortable followed by scissoring 1.20 a new best in the process. clearance. A well earned rest in the high jump and then Sam Reardon had the difficult and the prospect of a PB had launching himself to a big PB task of filling both Tareq Ethan bouncing about like of 4.44 into the sand of the and Rowan’s boots! But Sam Skippy in preparation for long jump. Jacob completed bravely stepped up and ran another jump. Like a seasoned his fine day powering around in the A string in the 200m high jumper Ethan sailed the bend in the relay. and the 1500m. Not daunted over a new best of 1.35 much Archie Shipley began his busy by the task Sam held his own to the delight of his mum and day hurdling just outside his sprinting down the home fellow supporters. best then sprinted 13.7 in the straight to place 3rd in the Jake Leng had a gutsy run in 100 and jumped 4.41 in the 200m before going one better the 800m running close to long jump to record two great in the 1500 coming a fine his best and then showed real 2nd. Sam couldn’t rest until sprinting speed as he clocked he had led the relay team off a fast time in the open 100m. on the first bend. Thomas Penlington showed With Tareq being unavailable real form and maturity as due to illness it was great that he ran a well paced 1500m we had Leo McCallum back race near to his best and also fit again and keen to go as he showed great speed alongside ran just outside his best in the Jake in the open 100m. With Athletics Report 33

performances that saw us just miss winning on the day by two and half points but left us firmly on top of the league for the season. We can now rightly call ourselves Southern Champions. Our reward for this is a trip to Birmingham to contest the National final on September 5th 2015. Tareq Bannour and Kyron Morgan dominated the sprints winning both A and B only nine U13 boys covering all Every athlete did their bit and string 100m and 200m. Tareq events they did superbly well their best and each securing ran a fabulous PB in the and were a credit to the club valuable, valuable points. Well 200m dipping under 26 for as they supported all events done all a superb team effort. the first time, clocking 25.90 throughout their long day. and wasn’t far off his best in Blackheath and Bromley the 100m despite straining This extremely tight result HAC are lucky enough to a muscle in the 100m. As a emphases the importance of have some of the best track precaution Tareq stepped every single point and this and field officials around but down from the relay but with was highlighted at Reading they always need additional our current talent, filling the in many ways, from our top help, either raking a sand space was no problem. Kyron class U15 shot put and javelin pit or collecting a discus or also ran a fabulous new best thrower Eloise Locke taking measuring the javelins. So in the 200m clocking 26.40, on the gruelling 800m, when it was great to have Archie’s was only 0.1sec off his best in asked to, as no one else was dad Adam and Jake’s dad the 100m, put the shot a big available, Shakanya Osahon Paul jumping in to help out 9.70cm just a few cms off his also doing the 800m at short in the field (I think they even best and ran a strong leg in notice, Eleanor Barrett enjoyed it!) pushing herself over great the relay. heights in the pole vault but Final fixture Croydon Alex Sibley made his National ending the day with a cast 18th July 2015 league debut running a great on her foot, sprinter Katie The final UKYDL fixture personal best and coming 2nd Woolcott dipping hard at was a local match at our in the B string 800m. Jake the line to secure second but neighbours, Croydon Harriers Leng also posted a new PB in pulling a ham string ‘Adam track but looked more the A string 800m, albeit only Gemilli style’ in the process, reminiscent of a building 0.01 sec. Thomas Penlington Zoe Austridge dipping at site than a running track! continues to impress placing the finish to secure 5th place However, this didn’t stop a fantastic 2nd in a tough given the same time as 6th our U13 and U15 athletes 1500m A string and slicing a but gaining the extra point. from producing some terrific massive 8 sec off his best time. 34

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and closer to the elusive 14 Scotland’s Edinburgh AC sec barrier and ran a quick leg by a mere 9 points. Eight of in the 4 x 100m relay team. Britain’s best athletic clubs Brandon Back had a baptism battled it out for the honour of fire making his club of becoming champions debut in a National league but by the afternoon Sale fixture but wasn’t daunted Harriers (last years winners), by the occasion running a Edinburgh AC (Scottish respectable 2:46, very good in champions) and BBHAC his first major race. had opened up a small lead on the rest. With only a few Many thanks go to Nic Corry points separating the top Ethan Kitteridge had his who managed the team three and positions constantly usual busy day but as ever on the day (despite being changing, it was clear the proves to be a team player temporarily side tracked by result would be tight. through and through. Third the global warming debate!), in the B string 1500m, a new Paul Byfield for drilling the The final result read as: best of 19.93 in the javelin relay team and generally followed by 1.30 in the high ensuring the boys got to Edinburgh AC 608 jump rounded off his day. their start positions on time, Blackheath and Jacob Byfield also had a busy Mark Purser for making the Bromley HAC 599 day standing in for Tareq phone call that also ensured in the relay but not before our two sprinters didn’t Sales Harriers 591 running a rapid 13.76 PB miss their race and to all Southampton AC 549.5 in the hurdles, breaking 14 the coaches who voluntarily seconds for the first time, gave up more of their time Cardiff AAC 527.5 equalling his PB in the high to support our athletes Rugby and jump and jumping over 4m in including Steve Timmins, Northampton 507.5 the long jump. Herbie Kuenstlinger, John Michael Burfoot had a great Wakeman, Keith Liston and Reading 448 Jay Galley (who also takes day winning the B string shot, Preston Harriers 405.5 just a few cms short of his best lots of great photos for our but smashed his javelin best by website). Thanks also to Rod over 3m, throwing 21.84. Harrington who also takes This result, along with our many of our great photos. U17 and U20 placing 3rd in Archie Shipley jumped their final, makes BBHAC the himself to well inside the top National Final Birmingham best young athletes club team 100 in the country with a big September 5th in Britain. The twelve U13 4.58cm to place second in the Blackheath and Bromley boys that made up their team A string long jump. Archie Harriers AC officially once again competed out also equalled his PB in the have the best U13 and U15 of their skins and produced hurdles and ran a quick leg in combined boys and girls team some excellent results the relay. in England, despite narrowly including a few personal Leo McCallum ran a new PB missing out on winning bests. Birmingham arena with in the 100m, getting closer the National title, trailing its High Performance indoor Athletics Report 35

centre is a great venue and and he even suggested they B&B set up home in prime were more comfortable than position above the finish line. his own (as his own were a First into the arena were little tight!). Jacob may have Ethan Kitteridge and Jacob been a bit distracted but it Byfield in the high jump. didn’t show as he jumped just short of his best. Ethan has had a great the 200m and once again season improving steadily Michael Burfoot and Kyron maximum points were scored Morgan were next up and throughout the season but with blistering wins for both. they scored maximum points was unfortunate to twist his Tareqs 25.53 was a PB (albeit winning both A and B strings knee on his very first jump windy) and Kyron’s 25.98 just and wasn’t able to improve in the shot with massive puts, a fraction outside his best. on his best. Jacob’s mind was as they have done all season. taken off his competition First event on the track was Thomas Penlington and Jake when he remembered that his the 75m hurdles and a great Leng, running in their first spikes were still on the coach technical run by Jacob just National final were up next in his suitcase. Unfortunately off his best and a great new in a highly competitive 800m. for us the coach had already personal best for Barnaby Thomas ran a gutsy run and returned to the hotel!! Such Corry got us off to a good did well finishing 5th in a is team spirit that all the boys start. new personal best of 2:32.77. were rallying around offering Tareq Bannour with his first Jake ran equally well in the the use of their spikes. Jacob race of the day and Kyron B string also finishing 5th in settled on Pedro’s Nike pair were next up on the track in 2:38.27. After their race they 36 Athletics Report

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were now both free to get full continued to do what they this further. Jacob sporting use out the indoor soft play have done all season, win, a new pair of spikes having area otherwise known as the both strings and in fantastic returned the borrowed pair, high jump mat! style. Rowan powered away took a while to settle in with Michael and Ethan were from the gun and looked two no jumps. The pressure back in action in the field in controlled in all the 3.75 laps. was on as he faced his final the javelin. Micheal got in a Rowan crossed the line 20 jump but we needn’t have safe throw to secure valuable seconds clear of second place worried as he nailed the points before trying a new and in doing so set a new board and flew to a big 4.15 run up technique (that may league record of 4:31.20. A winning the bronze medal in have seen on youtube!) that brilliant run despite having the process. could have seen the javelin just climbed down from The last event of the day orbiting mars but sadly didn’t. Gemma’s physio bench after for the U13 boys was the 4 Ethan struggling with his treatment for a back spasm! x 100 and three strong legs knee was only able to throw Sam Reardon has really taken and three safe change overs with a restricted approach but to the track season and runs from sprinter Leo McCallum, scored more valuable points. with more maturity than his Kyron and Archie left Tareq Back on the track were the years as he comfortably won only 10m down on the very sprinting boys and two more the B string. strong Cardiff quartet. Tareq great victories and more Sprinter Archie Shipley had to took the baton and flew maximum points in the wait all day to compete in his down the track gaining on 100m. Tareq 12.55 and Kyron first event as the long jump Cardiff with every stride 12.49 (windy) were classy didn’t start until 4pm. Archie but unfortunately ran out of performances. The 1500m wasted no time leaping to a track and crossed the line just was the next event and Rowan great 4.34 in the first round 2/10th of second behind but Fuss and Sam Reardon but wasn’t able to improve on still winning a superb silver for the team. Blackheath and Bromley HAC are one of the best supported clubs and that was evident on the day with Mr and Mr President and many BB members and parents there in large numbers. I would especially like to thank Ethan’s mum Teresa, Barnaby’s dad Nic and Jacob’s dad Paul for all their help in ensuring the weekend was safe and fun. Thanks also to Jay for all he does behind the scene (and that is loads) and for his great work behind the camera. Athletics Report 37 ESAA Championships

the first two from the heat After enduring the 8 hour managed to qualify. coach journey, and a good In the final heat, Henry was night’s rest, the training group left in a difficult situation saw Henry, Yas, Angus, when a rival ran hard from Coleman and myself compete the start, running a PB in the at the English Schools process. Effectively leading Championships – with Angus In a weekend of good runs, the field the whole way, and Coleman competing for the undoubted highlight was Henry gave chase in the final Surrey, and the remainder Yasmin Austridge. Going 300m and began closing the with Kent. in the Inter Girls 1500m gap. However, as he had done SC, there was considerable the majority of the work, pressure on her, being ranked runners from further back 2nd in the UK at her event. overtook – unluckily running Teammate, and fastest in the him out of qualification. field, Holly Page ran strongly Strong runs from all three and worked up a sizeable gap of the boys, in their first on the rest of the group – for English Schools track and the majority of the race. At field showed that there is a lot 300m to go, it seemed Yas was of future potential amongst in a battle for 2nd. However, On the first day, Angus, them in championship events. Yasmin had run one of the Coleman and Henry all After refuelling at the most tactically astute races competed in the Junior Boys hotel, it was down to the of the day. She gave chase 800m. Angus went off in the Steeplechasers on day two, fiercely, and a technically first heat – and also arguably myself and Yas. Personally, amazing last water jump saw the hardest, containing the in a stacked field, containing her storm through, drawing eventual champion and silver a 6 second gap between 1st Holly in, and taking the medallist. They hit the bell rank in the race, and 8th lead with 100m left to run. in an astonishing 59 seconds – I managed an incredible Safely over the last barrier, with the field spread. Angus bronze in the 1495m Inter Yas kicked again to win in attacked the last 200m hard Boys 1500SC. Unfortunately a massive PB of 4:54.82. but unfortunately just missed for me, the race was actually English Schools champion a qualifying spot. 1500m, and I ended up 5th. is an incredible feat, not to Coleman going in the second mention she managed to do heat, ran bravely taking the this a year young – making it first lap out in the lead. The all the more special. Yasmin race was a typical box 800m, rightfully earned a call up to and as a result meant it was represent England next week slowed down. This made it all in Scotland, in the SIAB the harder to qualify, being international. first 2 per heat and 2 fastest Well done to all in the group losers. Coleman held the who competed! lead until 250m to go but the field came through, and only Joss Barber 38 BBHAC young athletes at the Virgin Mini Marathon 2015

Palace, racing through 14th respectively backed up Blackheath and Bromley thousands of cheering by Lewis Mills in 16th. Oscar HAC young athletes excelled supporters up to the finish Hussey was 51st, Robert at the ‘Virgin Money Giving halfway along the Mall. A Perry (whose dad was doing Mini London Marathon’ great experience. the London) 71st, Coleman borough challenge on April The winning U13 boys team Corry 77th, Callum Myatt the 26th, most running were led home by a great 84th. Lewis Stickings 95th for Bromley but others run from Peter Guy in 5th and Harry Keene 106th for Bexley, Wandsworth, both ran for Bexley while Croydon and City of and Joseph Georgiadis, just behind in 6th. Sam Reardon, Lewis Warren, 112th ran for Westminster. Bromley had Lewisham. a massively successful day with two more years in this The U15 girls title also went winning four of the six age age group came a brilliant to Bromley with all eight groups and coming third and 14th. Justin Strover was 16th, girls from BBHAC. Gold was sixth in the other two. Leo Braden 33rd, Robert Suckling 39th, Jake Leng 44th secured for the team by great (both of Jake’s parents were runs from Yasmin Austridge running the full marathon) 12th, Millie Smith (2 i/c face and Keir Lundy 56th. Ben paint ) 18th, Amy Leach 26th, Gardiner running for Bexley Stephanie Taylor 34th, Grace was a great 30th. Scopes (i/c face paint) 35th, Tammy Falshaw 51st, Megan The Bromley U13 girls were Bullen 55th, and Carlotta 3rd team overall but BBHAC’s Weitzel 96th. Yasmin Marghini running for City of Westminster was a The race was comfortably great individual winner. Ellie won by our own Katy- Dolby, remarkably with two Ann McDonald running more years in this age group for Wandsworth, Naomi was a fantastic 13th followed Kingston running for City closely by a great run from Jess Neal in 14th. Morgan Squibb was a fine 25th, Gracie Horton 28th, Lily Tappenden Over 1500 young London (chief face, arm and leg athletes lined up to race the painter) 35th, Niamh Milmo final three miles of the main 59th, Alice Prentice 69th and London marathon course. After running along the Zoe Austridge on her mini Embankment, they soon marathon debut was 178th. passed the London Eye then The U15 boys also won the Big Ben and the Houses of borough title with Henry Parliament and then through Cowie continuing his fine Parliament Square, then down form placing 2nd. Great runs Bird Cage Walk heading from Micheal Eagling and directly for Buckingham Angus Harrington 13th and Athletics Report 39

of Westminster had a great run in13th. Also representing Wandsworth, Madalina Samoila was 23rd and hurdler Kate Purser ran for Croydon coming 178th. The Bromley U17 boys came a fine 6th and were led home by a strong run from SLH William Bardsley in 3rd. Joss Barber running for Bexley was a great 6th place. Charlie Davis coming back into form was a well placed 38th, Alek Wiltshire 69th, James Crawley and Bertie Harrington on their debuts were 71st and 103rd. More of a sprinter these days Will Pope came in 141st, Finley Baldwin 161st and Scott Bulmer on his debut mini marathon was 191st. To top Bromley’s successful day the U17 girls also won team gold with great runs from Niamh Bridson Hubbard in 2nd and Jess Keene in 4th. Kelsey Fuss was 16th, Shannon Riskey 24th, Georgina Taylor 35th, Charlotte Rhule 37th, Joanna Clowes 56th and Mary Guy 82nd. A great set of results. Paul Austridge 40 Athletics Report Kent Track relays Parris Handicap 2016 Series

The sun continued to shine and helped to make the last The monthly handicap race track meeting of 2015 a series started in 1993. It memorable one. Tonbridge was renamed in 1998 after school track is a great setting Roy Parris who sadly died anytime but the Kent track after an heroic fight against relay championships benefited cancer. This event is an apt further by the glorious tribute to Roy. The event is a autumn sun that lasted all day. series of 5km handicap races, In previous years this meeting which take place every month has been poorly attended but between April and September. large numbers this year made James Ingram won the very for a great track finale and first race in a time of 18:45 and Graham Fee was the BBHAC had huge success 300, which they comfortably overall winner for that year. winning trophies, golds, silver won before harshly being and bronze medals, breaking disqualified for a lane club records, season bests and encroachment! Alex Sibley, the odd disqualification! Barnaby Corry and Sam The U13 boys had an up and Reardon had all competed down day. Up, winning gold in the southern road relays in the 4 x 100 and silver in yesterday running a tough 3k the 3 x 800 and down being leg each but were still able to disqualified in the 4 x 300 put together another great for a marginally early lane team effort to take the Kent break. The quartet of Leo silver medals. McCallum, Kyron Morgan, The sprinters and field event Archie Shipley and Tareq athletes now have the next Bannour ran a season’s best 6 months to prepare for the by half a second in winning 2016 season whilst the middle gold in the 100. The same distance athletes look forward four were then whisked at to competing in the winter in very short notice into the 4 x the busy cross country season It is a testament to the success that started last week end and of this race that in 1993 the continues into March. maximum number of runners Well done to all the U13 boys in any race was 19 whilst 34 who have had a great track different runners took part in season and proved themselves the series. We now regularly to be the best club in the have over 30 runners turning country. I have thoroughly out and 64 different runners enjoyed the season and seeing made at least one appearance you all develop into great during the 2015 series. In athletes and young men. June 2015 the race attracted 37 runners the highest of all Paul Austridge 6 races over the summer. The Athletics Report 41 Parris Handicap 2016 Series

number of competitors in all races was never lower than 23, with an average of 30 competitors per race. This was the second season that my wife Sheila and I had organized the event and we have to say a huge thank you to our regular volunteers, Time Keepers Terri Shotton and Mike Peel and Recorders Denise King, Peter Lovell Bob Minting on 109 points The event generated over and Steve Hollingdale, each. However in that last £450.00 of profit and all the without their help every race Bob secured a ten second proceeds were donated to The month it would be impossible advantage over Zoe and House and Social Committee to stage this event. gained the necessary points to to be used for the benefit of As to the race winners the win the 2015 series. Second us all. April race was won by Chris was Zoe Kingsmell with One of the big highlights Tuck followed over the Dave Carton in third place. of the 2015 event were next 5 months by wins for Bob won the Parris shield the barbeques that Deniz Daniel Avila, Bernie Bater, with a combination of solid Mehmet and Gareth Gerry Alger, Dave Leal and results including four top five Griffin arranged for every James Neylon. The winning placings, and net times just Wednesday night of The margins ranged from over either side of 20 minutes to Parris Handicap. These 1 minute 10 seconds in the remind us of his pedigree. barbeques proved to be last race in September to 15 His best performance was enormously successful and seconds in July. achieved in August with a attracted not only the runners However there was no time of 19.40 to claim third but also non-runners and shortage of fast times during place his best position. guests alike. They have the summer. The fastest man already indicated that they over the course was Chris will continue to run these Tuck in a time of 17.59 (in events again this year so April) and the fastest lady many thanks as not only is was Sophie Kelleher in 18.57 the catering first class but in the August race. A special our bar profits increase mention must go to young considerably on these nights! Amy Leach who scorched The first barbeque will be on around the course in 20.03 on Wednesday, 18th May. the 17th of June. The first race of the 2016 Going into the last race Dave series will be on Wednesday Leal had a slender lead of 6th April at 7.15pm. one point over joint second placers Zoe Kingsmill and Richard Griffin 42 Tri Club News The Iron man returns… The Alternative Kinsey Report

the top waiting for ‘Froomie’ Whatever the rest of the Tri- at Arêtte Pierre Saint Martin) Club is up to in the summer a short 7hr hike from Lescun Nick Kinsey never ceases to that morning! amaze or inspire by road, cross Next up on the multisport country, over the Peaks or the racing front, was a summer Pryenees, in such glamorous of cyclo cross skills training locations as North Yorkshire, at the London League The Isle of Thanet or Herne Summer Cyclo-cross Series Hill Velodrome. Why jet (like X-country running but around the world when the with a bike). Popular local fleshpots of Blighty await! venues produced keen racing Even with the lure of the sun with over 70 vets entering puncture and crash (faceplant bed threatening to dampen the 4 round series, which I ouch!... lucky it was grassy or the competitive edge of most managed to win with some I would have required new mad ultra runners, bikers and consistent top 5 places and teeth!!!) dropped me down swimmers, Nick did not lose a win in the last race at the to 84th in 3hrs 44mins. Next his winning touch. Herne Hill Velodrome circuit. time disc brakes and tubeless This successful foray lead to tyres!! Respect to John a moment of madness and a Dowell who completed his hastily posted entry for the 3 25th 3 peaks cyclo X race just Peaks Cyclocross Challenge, 80yrs young! a ‘Monumental’ event on the Last but not least I’ve just had Cyclocross calendar. During my first win of 2016... A Race the 61km of off road action, winner! Yippee! My first race cyclists climb the peaks in 2016. of Ingleborough (723mts); Phil and Paul, the organisers Whernside (736mts) and Pen- of Thanets Toughest race, Y-Ghent (694mts). Here is my the off road Mountainbike blog from the day... Duathlon, kindly gave me 3 Peaks X... Oh such a GR8 bib number 1 (because of day! The weather... The event my past form in the event), is just stuff of legends! So seemingly oblivious to the You may remember that after tough and technical. I was fact it was almost 10 years a tough race in Lanzarote I up into 65th place before a ago. Thankfully I didn’t let finished the last report with them down... or get cold the ‘sun bed beckons’... well feet!! It started with a 2.5mile it did... pretty much, with a road run, followed by a very well earned holiday in June, muddy 9 mile MTB, and a followed by a walking / 4.5 mile off road run. I won hiking trip to watch the Tour outright and even just pipped De France in the Pyrenees in the first relay team. July (see photo with fellow ‘Heathen’ John McConville at Nick Kinsey Obituary 43 Graham Botley 17 April 1944 – 30 August 2015

It is with great sadness that We would like to highlight we have to inform you that three qualities shown by Past President Graham Botley Graham throughout his life; passed away after a long fight of course there are many with cancer in August. other qualities than the three There is so much to write we have chosen as each of about this great club man that us will have particular fond, it has taken three of us to pool cherished or loving memories. our thoughts. Graham, or Firstly, in his company Gary as some of you will have he exuded a spirit of known him by, touched us all; familiarity and trust between with his open personality and friends, a camaraderie friendship he enriched our that characterised his lives. We all carry memories travel groups, his teams in of great discussions and Blackheath & Bromley, his shared experiences with coaching of youngsters and him … one of Chris’s own other areas of his working cherished memories is of environment. This was clear making short work of a bottle and experienced by all who of port with Graham and attended his various 70th Ian Wilson whilst planning birthday parties up and the Pilgrims Way Relay in down the country last year. 1974 … while the past seven His enthusiasm for athletics years have been something and supporting athletes else …. In conversations with at all levels was infectious Graham during August 2015 and well known. Many here it was clear that his brave and will have read on the web courageous battle could only the moving tributes paid to have one end … and soon… Graham by those within the and yet even during this British Athletics community time he believed he might and further afield. Of course make one last trip to China this bonhomie embraced …he didn’t stop planning. other sports including bowls Over a beer in Bromley he and cricket. How delighted explained a wish early in 2016 we were that he managed to bring together athletes to make the trip to the from the incredibly successful Caribbean this year with period enjoyed by Blackheath the cricket aficionados, the Harriers in the 1990’s and sunshine and warmth and during which time he was being amongst great people team manager and President certainly gave him a lift. A of Blackheath Harriers in trip to watch the Derby at 1990. He didn’t quite make it Tattenham Corner in 2012 that far. set him thinking about 44

Continued

organising groups for a day Sydenham. He showed Team to be selected, and on at the races too, while Nick compassion for others as his the back of what was by any bumped into him at the recent visits to Tony Weeks- standards very little training Henley Regatta in 2009. Pearson in Hastings and to astonished more celebrated Secondly, Graham was deeply Alan and Brenda Brent in team members including understanding in nature. He Beckenham testify. internationals by completing was sympathetic, tolerant Together with Graham’s 30 individual miles with and wise in his dealings infectious camaraderie and just over 40 minutes rest with people. Amongst other his understanding nature he between them in an average things he was a caring and had a third quality, that of time of 4:54.8. A proud a responsible godfather, determination and stamina. record of determination and turning up unannounced at Whilst Graham qualified stamina. One if his major important times…birthdays, as a PE teacher at St John’s disappointments was that he Christmas...with presents College, York, he began his never broke 2 minutes for 800 for godsons and real interest business career in men’s metres but came close with in their latest achievements. fashion clothing before 2.00.3 which Nick witnessed Despite his illness he made moving on to sports clothing in 1974. the long trek to Newcastle and his travel business at Ian knew Graham first from to see his godson Peter in Crystal Palace. He gamefully the mid 1960’s but really got 2015 for a match at St James employed many budding to know him well at the 1970 Park where much beer was athletes at his sports shop Commonwealth Games in consumed apparently. He in Crystal Palace so they Edinburgh. Ian was staying made telephone calls from could earn money and in a B&B close to the stadium far away to comfort the continue to train. At this and when he met Graham he bereaved and their children time he was a promising told him that he was staying too. He also raised money in club athlete, runner-up in at the main line station! One the early days of fun runs for the Kent steeplechase in morning he joined the group St Christopher’s Hospice in 1972 squeezing under 9:30, at their B&B for breakfast the Blackheath club 800m and the landlady was giving champion in the same year. him some strange looks He competed as a member of but said nothing. Later they the club teams in the Kent, found out that she thought he Southern and National Cross was the Australian, Malcolm Country Championships. Baird, who was second to He was in the early days an David Hemery in the 110m active coach with the younger hurdles that had been held members of the club. He later the day before. Both were a confided that for him, his best similar size and shape! Ian performance was in the 24 often wonders if this was hour 10 man X 1 mile relay on when he got the idea of a 13th/14th April 1973. As one sports tour business. of the team that set a world best time that year, Graham Those who went on his was the last member of the tours will be aware that his Obituary 45

roped off area chased by building obviously worked this very large police man as in 1994 and 1995 we won who wanted to arrest him. the National cross country Fortunately, he did not. team race and in 1995 won the National 12 stage road Apparently not having relay in what I think is the enough to do Graham took 9th = fastest time ever and over as Winter Captain in the the 2nd fastest since 1988. early 1990’s and built a senior Ian remains convinced that men’s endurance team that all this could not have been was the most successful in the achieve without Graham’s B&B history, so far at least. foresight and enthusiasm. We had some very strong runners and Graham thought As you can imagine this was relaxed, laid back manor did that a “team building” event a very special period for the cause some of his “travellers” would be helpful. So, in endurance runners of the concern when they still had November 1991 he entered 2 Club and was achieved by not received their tickets teams in the High Peaks Relay Graham making use of his and travel details a few days in Derbyshire. The idea being qualities of understanding before they were due to travel. that the teams and supporters and determination together I don’t know of anyone who would assemble in a nearby with his ability to develop was let down and as a regular hotel on Saturday for a social camaraderie amongst a group “traveller” you got used to gathering ready for the race of people. Great times which I this approach. Ian and Nick on Sunday morning. Graham for one am glad I was part of. often used to reassure others seemed to be unaware of the For us these qualities in him that “it would be alright on amount of strategic planning of camaraderie, understanding the night” and that they could that the event required. The and determination serve as be assured that they would course was out and back an inspiration. At 6ft 6in, along the High Peaks Way, enjoy the tour! Graham was of commanding 4 legs each way and a total One image Ian still has in his stature, if you stood up of some 35 miles. Change straight you might have been mind is Graham being man- overs being where roads cross able to look Graham in the handled by an equally tall but the course. The strategic eye, but he would have had to much heavier Boston police planning was required to man at the 1992 World Cross drop runners off for the start be sitting down. Country Championships. Just of their leg and collect them In offering our condolences before the finish there was a at the finish. I know of at to his family, his dear mother very large area roped off to least one runner in the B team Nesta, sister Sue and brother ensure a clear view by the TV who had to run back over his Robin, the Tall Man remains cameras. The U20 women’s 5-mile leg to collect his car in our hearts forever and we race was finishing and Paula as no transport was available remember him with joy, with Radcliffe was leading going at the finish! Still the A team affection and with love. into this area. Graham was won in a course record and enthusiastically shouting at set many individual stage Nick Brooks, Chris Haines, Paula and ran across this records on the way. This team Ian Wilson 46 Obituary Bill Graham 1941 to 2016

It is with deepest regret that birth of a new child. His we report that Bill Graham generosity with this particular sadly succumbed to cancer skill of his was legendary. at the age of 74. Bill joined He had a wonderful sense of the Club in October 1987. humour and it was always a After playing football at pleasure to speak with him. a very decent level, he He was a warm, loyal man competed in a large number of immense integrity who of races at different distances, when he retired and moved particularly at cross country to Whitstable, with wife in the late 80s and early 90s. Val, worked with those with These included an impressive special needs at a wild life 61.1.00 at the Mob Match at centre and in carpentry. Both Ranelagh in January 1991 he and Val successfully made for which he gained a 2nd a new life for themselves in place in the handicap, a Whitstable and it was only a decent 35.28 at the Club 5 in few years ago that he became October 1988, and several a local hero when abseiling runs just over the hour in down a tall building on the other mob matches. His sea front for charity. best for the half marathon was 1.39.58 and these As an athlete, he may not performances should include have achieved the heights the marathon where his best of the elite but his attitude performance at this distance to clubmanship was par was in the 1992 London in excellence. Amongst those which he recorded a very of a particular era and age respectable 3.32.55. but particularly by Val and his family Bill will be greatly However his really great missed. contribution to the club was in the field of photography. He Graeme Williams was an excellent photographer having worked for many years with the Express Group of newspapers. His work often featured in the Gazette and included many events such as the day Dame Mary Peters in 1996 graced us by opening the ladies changing facilities. He recorded for posterity a wide variety of family occasions such as weddings, significant birthdays, anniversaries or Club News 47 Scott in frame for another Olympic selection whilst Dinah breaks records at Beijing

too good for twice Olympic Gazette that she was not Champion and several times worried about winning World Champion Jamaican medals at the highest level Veronica Campbell-Brown, of competition, “I’d love to and Olympic medallist the have got a medal but to be American Jeneba Tarmoh, in that calibre of race, seeing who was also left in her Dafne run 21.63, I’m really slipstream. not disappointed,” she said. “I gave it my all, which is all I “I was quite nervous,” said could ask for. “To be in a race Dinah, who was the only when two of the girls were British woman to reach the running 21.6, I was thinking, final, “Campbell-Brown and ‘I know I’m really trying my As in 2011 Scott Overall Jeneba are such inspirations best… when I crossed the line achieved the Olympic and Olympic Champions. So I was just open-mouthed. I’m marathon qualifying time I was quite happy I was able at the Berlin marathon, on flabbergasted, it’s absolutely to ease down. And you kind amazing.” September 27th 2015, by of have to when you have one finishing 10th in a race won of the biggest races ever the Meanwhile Lorraine Ugen by Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge, next day.” qualified for the final of the while Scott was the third long jump with a confident European athlete to finish. Dinah went on to run another 6.79m. Into the final she had personal best in the final on Of real significance though mixed success with her various August 28th clocking a time of jumps, registering 6.85m in her his finishing time of 2 hours 22.07 seconds to eclipse Kathy 11 minutes and 24 seconds second jump and progressing Cook’s previous mark set at to the final three rounds. was well inside the qualifying the 1984 Olympic Games. time 2.17.00 and only 29 However a couple of no jumps To achieve this suggests prevented her from finishing seconds off his personal best. that she had competed in Hopefully it will enable him in the medals and in the end one of the quickest races of she secured fifth place. to gain selection for team GB all time, and it was, being in the Olympics in Rio. won by Dutchwoman Dafne In Beijing at the World Schippers in 21.63sec with Championships in August all medallists finishing under Blackheath and Bromley were 22 seconds. Dinah herself represented by Dina Asher- finished fifth and said she was Smith in the sprints and “absolutely over the moon” Lorraine Ugen in the Long at her performances. “I’ve Jump. run three personal bests three To begin with Asher Smith days in a row and ended with ran the fastest first round a 22.07, which is also a British 200 metres heat in World record, so I’m a really, really Championship History with a happy girl.” personal best of 22.22. Then Having declared in an in her semi-final she was far interview covered by the 48 Ad Hoc Group recommends 150th season celebrations

In connection with the Being mindful of the last Also discussed at length was proposals for celebrations time such a significant event the matter of the design of a in the Club’s history was suitable logo to be used, with of the Club’s 150th observed, back in 1969, the different designs being needed anniversary in 2019 an Centenary Year, the group for such diverse purposes as ad hoc group has been looked at the precedents of club clothing and kit, trophies, formed in order to make club history and considered and the website. Peter Rogers what would be fitting events and other club members with proposals to the Executive to mark this landmark. Since graphic design skills would be Committee on how the the Centenary celebrations consulted on this. club may wish to celebrate extended for a whole year Being aware of the the 150th anniversary. from April 1969 to March importance of club history 1970 it was proposed that The group considered such in organising a program of the 150th season should anniversary celebrations, matters that covered a full run from the AGM in the group recognised both range of activities which March 2019 through to the the existence of an extensive could form the structure of following year’s AGM. Such a published club history, period would coincidentally a season lasting one year originally produced by D.K. include the quadrenniel club Saunders and A.J. Weeks- and through its spokesman, photograph which would be Pearson in 1969 for the club Past President Chris due in 2020. centenary, its subsequent Haines presented update to 1989 by Tony its proposals to the Weeks-Pearson and Peter Baigent, and Executive Committee the as yet at its November 2015 unfulfilled meeting. need for a further update to take it up to the 150th season. Such an update could be called ‘Changing Times – The History of Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC from 1989 to 2019’. Such an undertaking would of course require a new generation of appropriate researchers and authors with the Club News 49

skill to produce a chronicle in the true spirit of the club. Remembering such appropriate events as marked the centenary celebrations, particular athletic and social events were considered, although not as carbon copies of those held in 1969. After considering a repeat of the 100 x 1 mile relay, it was generally accepted that this would not be appropriate and a quite different mass participation event involving all ages was considered more relevant. However an Invitation 150th Anniversary Meeting at Norman Park Track should be arranged to include 150m sprints and the Sydney Wooderson Memorial 800m races to reflect the club’s strengths and standing in athletics. Two main social events would be held one of which would 1 The 150th Season would These recommendations be the Club Dinner, to take run from March 2019 to were placed before the place at a prestigious venue, March 2020. similar to such previously Executive Committee at the used venues as the Mansion 2 Two logos to be designed November 2015 meeting and House and the House of with a 150th season theme, were endorsed accordingly. Commons, but not necessarily for clothing and for other There would be no formal these two in present times. items including the website. stipulation as to when the By having prestigious venues 3 An update to the club Club History update might it would be easier to attract history will be published. be completed but Chris official guests of some 4 An invitiation Anniversary Haines suggested it would be standing. The other would be Meeting will be arranged a five year project to allow a Dinner Dance to be held at 5 The Club Dinner in for research into subjects a more local venue such as the 2019 would be held at a with very little formal Warren or the New Inn. prestigious venue. records. Andy Edwards, PP In summary the 6 A dinner dance or modern Pat Calnan and VP Wilf recommendations of the Ad equivalent should be held at Orton have expressed an Hoc Group were as follows: a local venue. interest in taking this on. 50 Club News Pat Calnan revives the Courier

quit due to professional and events and forthcoming personal commitments there fixtures, just as the old Courier then followed a period during did in its previous incarnation which various attempts were but with a different layout. One made to recruit a new editor feature which was incorporated but without success and in from the old Gazettes are the 2013 the committee decided news flashbacks going back 25 to discontinue the publication years, and makes for interesting due to lack of a need for it. reading if you wish to trace the beginnings of current major However Pat Calnan, having athletes or the exploits of senior stood down as Press Officer, figures in the club, and there For over 40 years the Courier decided that such a need are plenty of archival photos to or its predecessors provided a still existed, especially as the jog the memory. valuable source of information internet could not be relied about the performances upon to find results easily. As someone has commented of the club’s athletes in all They might be found on the on the issues which have so competitions and at all levels. website but not in one place far come out “They make for But after its editor produced and finding races might very entertaining reading, as well his last issue in September involve a fiddly process of as giving us results.” 2010 no further issues were opening up large numbers of The new Courier was produced for five years and files. “The older the event, the produced in October 2015. for a while the magazine was more chance that the link to a When it was last produced the discontinued due to the use website won’t work” and athletic Courier came out every two of alternative methods of press reports might not give months but Pat’s aim is that it recording results. So it was the results of grass roots level should be published monthly. with some relief that last races. It seemed therefore so, after a long established club year the Courier re-emerged to Pat that the revival of the institution was deemed to be in a new format and style, Courier was necessary because unnecessary in this digital age, thanks to the enthusiasm and it would bring all club results it has been proved that with a willingness of PP Pat Calnan. together, including something certain amount of drive and enthusiasm there is still a place There had always been a it has in the past done well, reporting on obscure results in the club for a publication means of recording the results that covers the progress of and achievements of the from those members of the club such as older members its members at the grass club’s athletes and from the roots level and remembers late 1970s this was primarily whose performances do not get the coverage from the with affection the exploits of done by the Courier through athletes in past days. its successive editors. The athletic press. September issue, however, Bearing these things in mind Ferdinand Alf proved to be the last one Pat has set out to revive the produced for five years as its Courier and the result is, on editor relinquished the role the whole, a well produced to take on editorship of the magazine full of useful Gazette. After the new editor information including social Club News 51 Sport Bromley honours John Blackie

19 has become the fastest ever she is well known. A Bromley Sport Bromley presented British lady sprinter. John is a team was required for indoor their annual awards for well renowned and extremely rowing for the London Youth Coach and Volunteer of successful sprint, hurdles and Games and Manola, starting the Year on Monday 5th jumps coach and has won this from scratch, very successfully October at the Pavilion in award previously. His squad put together and trained a Bromley. The Mayor plus includes English Schools team of 10 pupils from years Council leader and also the Champions, National and 7 to 11 that placed a very Chief Executive attended the International medalists at all creditable 13th out of the 30 Bromley celebration of their ages, even over 60 years of odd London Boroughs. But 2015 London Youth Games age! It was acknowledged that this in no way was allowed participation and Sport if Dina is as successful in Rio to impact on her fencing Bromley used the occasion to in 2016 as we all hope then commitments. Indeed, make their awards. Sport Bromley will have not Manola has previously won much option but to present the Coach of the year award The Coach of the year award John with the same trophy for her work in that Sport. was presented to John Blackie again next year! by Sport Bromley President, Volunteer of the year was Bernard Holley. John is the Manola Toschi-Restivo but Coach to local lass Dina not for her work in her chosen Asher-Smith who this year at sport of Fencing for which 52

Executive Committee 2015/16 Past Presidents

President: Existing Past Presidents of Blackheath Harriers AC: David Cordell Alan J Brent (1966/7), Peter J G Baigent (1971/2), John R Baldwin (1975/6), Immediate Past President: Colin M Brand (1978/9), Brian G Stone (1979/80), Ian C Wilson (1981/2), Dick Griffin IPP Derek L Gregory (1986/7), Alan M Pickering (1992/3), Steve H Cluney (1994/5), Chairman of Committee: David White (1995/6), Mike J Mahoney (1997/8), Chris R Haines (1998/9), Andy Tucker VP Richard J Coles (1999/2000), Mike Davies (2000/1), Mike Peel (2001/2), Pat Calnan (2002/3). Hon Secretary: Existing Past Presidents of Bromley AC: (to 2003) Hanna Cordell VP Daphne Reed, Joyce Hepher, Junior Field, Paul Jearum, Maureen Miller. Hon Treasurer: Past Presidents of Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC: David Appleton VP John Robinson (2003/4), Margaret Baldwin (2004/5), Anne Cilia (2005/6), Chairmen of Active Athletics: Ken Daniel (2006/7), Les Roberts (2007/8), Tim Soutar (2008/9), Alison Brand Summer – Tim Soutar PP (2009/10), Richard Coe (2010/11), Denis Lawrie (2011/12), Steve Hollingdale Winter – Robert Cliff PP (2012/13), Robert Cliff (2013/14), Dick Griffin (2014/15). Chair of Finance: Stephen Hollingdale PP Vice Presidents Chair of Communications: Wilf Orton VP Existing Vice Presidents of Blackheath Harriers AC: 3 ordinary members: George H Smith (1960), John E Lindblom (1962), Derek F E Hogg (1964), Tony Adrian Stocks VP V Hayday (1968), Richard J Edmonds (1969), Robert Richardson (1969), John Daniel Ryan Lissaman (1972), Barry M Shapcott (1973), Geoff R Last (1974), Gordon Hickey Maz Turner VP (1975), Frank C Rogers (1976), Frank J Dyter (1977), Jerry C W Friend (1977), Chair of Development: Andy W Frankish (1979), Peter E Shepheard (1979), Jack Braughton (1980), Paul Byfield VP Peter C Hannell (1980), Mike A Winch (1981), Ian K Young (1982), Gordon Sponsorship/Fund Raising: Brooks (1986), Simon Parsons (1990), Jim Phelan (1990), Nigel Keogh (1991), Vacant Trevor Llewelyn (1991), Nick Brooks (1992), Bill R G Foster (1992), Mark I L Watling (1993), Steve J Freemantle (1995), R Colin Poole (1995), Alan R House and Social: Stevens (1995), Peter A Long (1996), Nick Nuttall (1997), John E Turner (1997), David Cordell Peter Lester (1998), Garry F P Spencer (1998), Bill Clapham (1999-2013), Mike Membership Secretary: J Cronin (1999), David Liston (2000), Roger A Michell (2000), Brenda Brent Rob Brown VP (2001), Paul Byfield (2001), Roger Counter (2002), Len Dalmon (2002), Roy Track & Field Secretary: Smith (2002). Wendy Daniels Cross Country Secretary: Existing Vice President of Bromley AC: Vacant David Green. Vice Presidents of Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC: Editor: Wilf Orton John Blackie (2003 ex BAC), Willem Buttinger (2003 ex BH), Ian Dibbens (2003 020 8771 1128 ex BAC), Hilary Gibbs (2003 ex BAC), David Taylor (2003 ex BH), Simon Tolson [email protected] (2003 ex BH), Myrtle Augee (2004), Julian Golding (2004), Helen Godsell (2004), Assistant Editor: Ozzie Adams Simon Lloyd (2004), Anthony Pontifex (2004), Brian Power (2004), Nick Gasson 01689 835392 (2005), Brendan McShane (2005), Brian Hartley (2006), Paul Patten (2006), [email protected] Kate Pratten (2006), Michael Skinner (2006), Ray Gibson (2007), Richard Holt Layout & production: Peter Rogers (2007), Mark Purser (2007), Rob Brown (2007), Bob Minting (2007), Costas 020 7635 9035 Karageorghis (2008), Tom Phillips (2008), Terri Shotton (2008), Andy Tucker [email protected] (2009), Roy Watkins (2009), Allan Williams (2009), David Appleton (2010), Peter Lovell (2010), Steve Pairman (2010), Colin Rowe (2010), Paul Austridge (2011), Club Headquarters Con Griffin (2011), Deniz Mehmed (2011), Wilf Orton (2012), Hanna Cordell Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC (2013), Mick Jones (2013), Mike Sheppard (2013), Dave McKinlay (2014), Alex The Sydney Wooderson Centre Gibbins (2014), Richard Hall (2014), Jane Bradshaw (2014), Julie Asher-Smith 56 Bourne Way, Hayes (2014), Marion (Maz) Turner (2015), Sheila Griffin (2015), Jackie Montgomery Bromley, Kent BR2 7EY (2015), Adrian Stocks (2015), Tim Ayres (2015). Photographs Karen Desborough: p22/23. Jay Galley: f/c, p1, 2, 4, 10, 12-21, 30-32, 35. David Griffiths: p26 (middle top) Chris Haines: p3. Rod Harrington: p11, 18, 21 (top right), 24-26, 28-29, 33-34, 36-40 Nick Kinsey: p42. Mike Martineau: p46. Mike Peel: p40 (right), 41, 50 The editing team wish to express their thanks for all those who contributed articles and photographs for this issue. The editorial team make every effort to correctly identify and credit all the photographers but occasionally this is not possible. If you took a photograph but haven’t been credited please let us know and we will publish the details in the next Gazette.