No.672 / Vol.130 Reports & News Winter 2019/20

PP Bill Foster at the Celebratory Dinner, House of Commons proposing a toast to the various guests attending A Club well worth backing From the Editor Thanks to our sponsors: So the long awaited milestone year of our club’s 150th Biggin Hill Airport, Anniversary year continues as we cover part two of the Jack Petchey Foundation, story. We have more anniversary material in particular So Clean for those interested some items relating to the club’s and to many other generous individuals illustrious history from the multi-sported activities of its who offered backing and assistance. first incarnation as Peckham Hare and Hounds to the club we recognise today with its now long associations with the Hayes and Bromley area. CONTENTS As far as competitive activity is concerned there has been Club News plenty and despite the growing threat of the Coved 19 virus 3. This year’s President – Nick Corry in the early months of this year it has been possible to stage nearly all of the fixtures 7. Your New Vice Presidents in the winter calendar, and after the work done on the Norman Park track it has been Athletics Reports 2019/20 possible to continue some of the Leader Board meetings although as we’ve come to the end of the anniversary year this competition is still in progress. 8. Senior Men’s Winter Season 15. National Cross Country Before the pandemic had brought an end to athletic activity for the season we’d Championships seen another busy and successful program of raves from the Senior Men, some fine 18. The U20s Men and Women individual performances by the Junior Men along with strong turnouts in some key 20. The young athletes in the Kent races, medals of all colours being won by young athletes of all age groups in the Cross Country League Kent League, and the emergence of a rising star in the High Jump by the name of 24. Kent County AA Cross Country Kelechi Aguocha at Indoor track and field Championships both at home and abroad. Championships Finally another flagship performance by Dina Asher Smith as she continues her 26. National Cross Country Relays distinguished international career by becoming the first British athlete to win three 27. English Schools Cross Country medals in the World Championships. Championships The arrival of the Coved 19 (or Corona Virus) pandemic has effectively stalled any 28. South of England Championships athletic activity for this summer and although the management have been able to 30. The Indoor Track Season allow the re-opening of the clubhouse grounds for Wednesday nights to function 33. 150th Anniversary in a socially restricted manner, the onset of a second wave of a virus may see the Leader Board Challenge cancellation of the winter cross country season. 34. Masters Cross Country The anniversary celebrations continued principally with the Anniversary Dinner at 36. The Bennett Cup Season the House of Commons Dining Room on 7th November last autumn, an occasion for 39. World Championships at Doha the club to put out its finest plumage to the outside world with so many posh frocks Features and different styles of dinner jackets, lounge suits and club ties in view. As the front 42. The Origins of Blackheath Harriers over will show there were many faces present, past and present members and guests 46. Ian Wilson – My early experiences from many walks of life, and many tributes paid to the club. If you’d been there you with Blackheath would have felt a strong sense of togetherness and fraternity. Club News Equal thanks go yet again to my erstwhile layout editor Ozzie Adams who has once 49. 150th Anniversary Dinner at the again been available to step in to assist in producing this issue,and maintaining the House of Commons splendid standards of design which readers have appreciated over recent years. 60. Dina Re-opens Refurbished Track Wilf Orton, December 2020 at Norman Park 62. The Club AGM Before signing off I wish to offer grateful thanks to the following for willingly 65. Norman Park Development Update providing articles and reports for this issue: President Nick Corry, PP Julian Golding, 66. Letters to the editor Paul Austridge VP, Ross Braden, PP Nick Brooks, Steve Pairman VP, PP Chris Haines, Obituaries PP Ian Wilson, Tim Ayres VP, PP Steve Hollingdale, Richard Johnson, Helen Johnson 67. David Ralph Johnson The next issue covering the Summer 2020 is in preparation but due to the total 70. Joseph Anthony Clare suspension of competition for the season it is envisaged that this particular issue 71. Derek Hogg and the subsequent Winter 2020/21 issue will, if all competition is continued to be 74. Club Officials suspended, be amalgamated to form a Year 2020/21 Issue. Any copy or contributions to be in by the latter half of 2021. Club News 3 This year’s President Profile on Nick Corry, President 2020/21

Most newly succeeding club In that time Nick Corry new president remotely since presidents have come to that has taken on the role of the AGM had to be cancelled. office following many years team manager for different The following Interview with of membership and service age groups and in 2017 in Gazette Editor Wilf Orton to our club, and even if they recognition of his services he took place also remotely soon may have spent time away was awarded a vice presidency afterwards on 3rd April 2020. from it prior to assuming the by PP Bill Foster. Of him presidency, they have been the outgoing president said NC: Hi Wilf, great to be able to long considered as integral to “Nick … has, an underlying catch up with you. the club and it’s continued passion for Athlete Wellbeing success. By contrast however and in particular mental WO: Good evening Mr outgoing President Julian health and is proud that the President, thank you for Golding had decided to choose club is leading the way in club giving me your time (both as his successor someone whose athletics, with its focus on laugh – time appears to be association with the club is of Athlete Wellbeing”. aplenty in the new lockdown). a relatively recent one, having Last year he also took on the joined it only some seven years WO: We like to introduce the ago in the role of encouraging responsibilities of Chairman incoming President to the parent. of The Committee and has in club, and place a Q&A, if you a short period of time moved like, in the Gazette. I have to become very much the some questions for you. Is heart and soul of the club, that OK? being more than just a runner, but a champion of the whole NC: Of course Wilf fire away. person and encourager of all aspects of club life. Given the WO: Great, well my first impact of the corona virus question is how did you arrive on club activities he was at Blackheath & Bromley introduced to the club as its Harriers AC? 4

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NC: Right Wilf, that’s a great WO: Crikey, I hadn’t realised question, it’s a long answer. Our that! I was still running then! family moved to the area in 2003 NC: Yes. I really enjoyed it. I from Wapping in London, and spent most of the race running knew very little about Bromley. In with John Fenwick, each of us fact shortly after, we all relocated politely allowing the other to to Hong Kong in the summer of go over stiles first, and through 2004. It was just after the SARS narrow gaps. It’s funny the outbreak had subsided so Hong things that impress on you, but I Kong was in recovery mode. We really warmed to his gentlemanly returned in 2008, and it wasn’t sporting conduct. Afterwards in until 5 years later that Coleman’s the club house bar, I got talking to mum Emma found the track at Wednesday-Nighters, particularly Norman Park, and from that Iain Swatton who gave me the I thought I would just ask about BBHAC. encouragement to join. it. I was pointed in the direction of PP Mike Davies, who when I By 2013, Coleman was doing well enquired so forcefully press ganged in sports at school, he was beating WO: So your start was in Cross Country? I tend to me I realised as soon as I opened everyone at running by a country associate you with the track my mouth, I was the new team mile, and we wanted to try and and team management. manager! take that further. I remember taking him to the track, and him NC: Yes it was in Cross Country, WO: I have heard he tends and I re-found and renewed a love having his first training session. to be like that! Are you still a for that. It was something I was He looked absolutely mediocre. team manager? It was really pleasing. Some real good at, at school, but I never had competition for him. the opportunity of joining a club. I NC: Yes I am, although I have was one of 5 brothers and we were moved up to the Upper Age Within a few weeks cross country all good at running, my younger Group, looking after the U20 and started and he started improving. brother was also a very good U17 boys, while Tim Soutar looks Through this I renewed my love for high jumper. My eldest brothers after the girls. Rod Harrington running. While he trained I would represented Berkshire at English who managed the boys with me, do a few laps of Norman Park. Schools. has taken over the British League Then at the end of September from Pat Calnan, or I guess I 2013 we found out about the Club WO: So what took you in to should say National Athletics 5 mile. I had been improving, so team management? League. I think that we are in a we both decided to enter. NC: Well it’s Coleman’s fault really exciting place with Team We had intended to just enjoy again! He was by now in the Management on the track, as we racing together,and had no under 15s, and I saw that the club also have Nick Swatton looking idea that there would also be was asking for a team manager after the Southern League. In the a handicap. So it was really to help with the Kent Young Juniors, Paul Austridge, Karen interesting for us. Looking back Athletes League. I had coached Desborough, and I guess it‘s Paul I realise we ran against each other youngsters rugby in Hong Kong, Byfield, though I think there are Wilf! and had enjoyed volunteering so some new parents coming through Club News 5

to help also. Dedicated to the before. It was only the kind of very touched, and touched is the Masters we have Maz and John talk you can give, when you have right word, I’d say I was downright Turner. The platform for athletes been all the way in the sport as he emotional at times, reading the to succeed is really strong now. has. It was terrific and I sincerely biography of Sydney Wooderson. I I don’t know other clubs that hope, (and aim!) to keep Julian was stirring to realise I had run on enjoy that kind of dedication and close to the club, particularly the the same cross country courses that coverage. youngsters as there is so much good he and other runners from the time This year is also an Olympic Year, experience to tap in to there. had used. I do want to explore and I can’t wait to see the uplift in Julian and I got to know each ways of us managing to keep excitement and interest in the club, other through the Management alive the traditional club courses. should Adam and Dina do well Committee, and I realised that The club 10 mile is the best cross in Tokyo. the club had a President that was country course in the world. It has really working hard. Julian was absolutely everything in it! WO: Yes that is lucky, being a track guy, and so wasn’t even President in an Olympic year! aware of the club house before WO: I think it’s hard though. NC: Yes, though I wonder when becoming President. He certainly NC: Yes, we do need to think of we will all be immortalised in the had no idea about cross country, athletes’ safety, and especially that Club Photo! That should have and I remember on the morning of the marshals. But let’s see. I taken place but of course couldn’t. of the Club 10 he arrived at the know we are looking at ways to Though I’m not sure if I should be Club House at the race start invigorate the Bennet Cup and in the middle of that or Immediate time, wondering where he should Mob Matches, trying to encourage Past President Julian Golding! start the race! He and I jumped more runners. But I think if we I think technically it would have in the car and sped to the Church build success from the top, then been taken before the AGM when at Layhams, arriving to a great those races will fill up themselves. I wasn’t yet President, and still cheer from the runners! We also I see no reason why in 5 years a secret! both went to the mob match time if we work at it, with the at Ranelagh, and it was great junior athletes we have, we can’t WO: Well as you’ve raised joining in the club chant with him. be National Champions in cross it, when did you get asked Something I’m certain he never country. Particularly the women. If by Julian. How do you know encountered when on the track! we set out a strateg y for that, then him? we will be unbeatable in the Kent WO: Is the club history NC: Before this year I didn’t League, and enjoy a resurgence important to you Nic? know Julian at all. I was in the Mob Matches. So, for me, really excited by the choice the NC: I think we are so blessed it is not a question of holding on then President, Paul Byfield with our history, and this year, to history, the history is ours, it made, in selecting Julian for our if do have to have a pause in can be taken away. We have to 150th year. When we went up competition, I hope to reignite and look forward as a club, and then to Manchester with the young spread awareness of our history. our present efforts and targets will athletes for the YDL finals, You as editor know better than marry up to the standards of our Julian gave the youngsters – and anyone, we have such a treasure history. That is why I’m a big all the adult volunteers! – the trove tucked away between the proponent of the development and most inspirational talk the night pages of the gazette. I was also move to Norman Park. 6 Club News

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WO: Are you sure you want NC: I certainly aim to continue to leave the Club House? that. It struck me that the Won’t the move make you President has so many more ways homeless? (both laugh) to communicate than through a weekly ten minute pitch in the NC: Don’t get me wrong Wilf. bar. Which only really reached an The Club House is very special audience of 20-30 club members. to me. I love the social side of the We are a club with nearly 1,000 club. My favourite club memories members. I want to try and reach are from evenings we have had all of them. All of our media is here. Top of that list is Burns important to me. Social Media, night. The way you opened my Print Media, Digital Media. eyes to the work of Burns through That is an area I hope the club the talk you gave on his work will notice as an area of growth last year. I was really hooked. and renaissance (for the print in That is some of the magic of particular) during my Presidency. BBHAC. We’re a running club, a track club, a race walking club, WO: So will we lose the news but we are a really great social in the bar? club, a wide community, that is special. But all these things come NC: I certainly hope not! I hope from people, not venues. If we to be in there after lockdown, are to take the club to the heights but also I would love it if I could we aspire to, then we need the present news from important facilities to achieve that, and we historical places for the club: The need security over our home. Railway Hotel, Blackheath, the Chicken Run! I don’t know? But I realise I haven’t answered you get the idea, and the members your earlier question! When did who are in the bar, watch that over Julian ask me if I would take facebook on the big TV, while on the role? It was at the family others who live further afield can xmas supper at the club house. catch up wherever they are. I was just popping back to the flat, probably for some more WO: Well thank you Nic. I money for the bar (laughs) when look forward to seeing you I realised Julian had sneaked out in the bar sometime soon, and followed me. So he asked me whether it is in person, or on then, and I was shocked, but very the big screen! pleased to accept. NC: Thanks Wilf. WO: Now we have had the Nick Corry/Wilf Orton first facebook news from the President. Will that continue? Club News 7 Blackheath and Bromley AGM – Your New Vice Presidents 2020 to replace the former ones. than anyone else in the club. Outgoing President Julian Said the editor of this “I He never promotes himself as Golding has seen fit to create wish to express my heartfelt he is such a modest individual. three new vice presidents, appreciation and thanks who in different ways have for all he has done on the contributed to the club and magazine and hope we can have been proposed by some of find a committed and talented its former presidents. a designer to take his place”. Perhaps more importantly though he has designed and promoted the logos that we used last year… to celebrate our 150th anniversary. His expertise has been invaluable in producing our celebration materials… including the badges, menus and glasses Nigel Stickings seen and used at the House of (Proposer PP Margaret Baldwin) Commons Dinner last year. Nigel currently coaches a group of our young athletes. When they go away as a big group to competitions…(YDL Peter Rogers final, National Cross Country (Proposer PP Chris Haines) etc.) he is always on hand to Peter has contributed to the help and keep a watchful eye Gazette over many years…. on their behaviour and often and has been responsible for goes the extra mile. layout and many technical issues in that time… He This is all done in his own assisted Gazette Editor Wilf quiet way…whilst most Orton from 2010 to 2017, others are fast asleep…he first as layout editor and then is up ensuring our athletes David King are safe and are doing the later having responsibility (Proposer PP Dick Griffin) for selecting photos with right thing; his contribution Dave works tirelessly behind great judgment. On one can be overlooked by most, the scenes running the occasion having just stood but yet the role he plays Clubs… Lottery Syndicate. down from the team he very is very significant. He is a He devotes much of his free helpfully stepped in at short very sociable member of the time to do this… and has notice and turned around Club…and attends many of been doing this since 2013. production of an issue when the non-athletic events. there were delays caused by Dave has run over 316 full engaging a new layout editor marathons… which is more IPP Julian Golding 8 Senior Men’s Winter Season 2019/20

Preliminaries at 70th in the most competitive for the club, too much to do, Crystal Palace leg of the day to set the team although he ultimately left us After a brave effort by all up. Alex Gibbins promptly in 36th. A huge gain from the involved, we failed to qualify got the chase under way by start, but not enough. a team for the National elevating the team to 64th. In addition a 2 man Road Relays after winding From one Alex to another as incomplete team of Jason up 36th out of 74 complete Alex Bruce-Littlewood ran a Meers and Ifetobi Salako teams at the SEAA 6 Stage barnstorming leg to make up made the most of the occasion Road Relays Crystal Palace 19 places and bring us up to to place 85th and 83rd in on 22 September 2019 -. 45th and give the team hope the extremely competitive This fixture has been fertile in the second half of the race. first 2 legs of the day. They ground for us in recent years, Joss Barber, on his way to full were joined by a vets team but a combination of injuries, fitness after a summer in New consisting of L. Crowder, training commitments and Zealand, continued the chase Dave Beadle, Adrian Stocks European Club competition with a further escalation to and Andy Lawes who began left us slightly depleted this 39th. Dan Kennedy could in 21st and rose to 20th time. only add another couple of out of 22 complete teams After a later promotion to places to this while carrying with committed runs from the first leg of the A Team, a niggle, leaving James everyone. Tom Desborough battled to Habergham, in his road debut Kicking off the season in the Kent League The cross country season proper kicked off with the first Kent League on October 12th at Swanley Park. In stark contrast to previous years when the sun’s been shining and the ground’s been flat and firm, a traditional scene greeted the team as it was continuously raining and there were some actual hills involved in the race. It seemed that that’s exactly what large sections of the club wanted as 15 men turned out in force. After a mid-race wobble Joss Barber led the Heath home with a barnstorming final A trio of senior men posing for a possible podium finish kilometre to place 14th on his Athletics Report 9

senior XC debut. At the other the team in 238th. end of the scale, Alex Gibbins We were a comfortable followed him home in 17th 3rd in both the 4 and 12 to with a fast finish to claw back score categories, which will an extra place as the first vet. hopefully be an excellent Gareth Evans was next to springboard for future get in on the act with 33rd fixtures. place after a typically well judged effort. Luca Ercolani Tonbridge completed the 4 to score in 26th October 54th with the sort of pacy Well done to everyone who finish on the inside that competed this weekend at the suggests he was paying close second instalment of the Kent attention during the World League at Tonbridge. First Championships. home was Josh Schofield, Fintan Parkinson (91st) and Jon Pairman grasped the who faced a course harder Jon Vintner (93rd). The wait nettle well on his Kent than anything he would for the next man in was not League debut to come 69th have experienced up north. long either with Greg Firth and lead home a glut of team Untroubled he handled it with and Paul Sharpe finishing mates: Fintan Parkinson in ease, displaying a strong final 103rd and 107th respectively. 75th after having just eaten lap to close in 3rd place. Alex Chris Tuck was the 12th man several times his body weight Gibbins was next home in in, continuing his comeback in burgers while out in the 24th (to be confirmed as we and ensuring we finished States, Roger Beswick in 78th believe he edged 23rd and a comfortable 3rd overall in the and 2nd V55, and Paul Sharpe formal review will follow.) 12-to-score. Ross Braden threatened a top in a battling 85th. Another Darren Corneille was next 5 finish but after a less than debutante Greg Firth snuck in completing the testing enjoyable last 800m finished into the top 100 in 96th, Chris course in 44.34, followed by in 27th. Completing the 4 Tuck began the long road formerly retired cross country to score was Dan Kennedy back to full fitness in 116th, runner Tim Ayres, who did who had recovered from last pipping Darren Corneille in his trademark of offering weekends efforts to put the 122nd, and the elder Pairman to run with someone and team firmly in 3rd place in the completed the scoring dozen then using a sprint finish 4-to-score team standings. in 167th. Nigel Haffenden and to gain the upper hand, his Jason Meers just missed out Next home in another solid victim was Richard Byford on the top 12 with finishes of run was Luca Ercolani in who finished 6 places lower. 185th and 189th, Rich Byford 38.53. The next 4 in were However, Byford’s official bravely warmed up for his separated by just 10 seconds time is currently under review half-marathon the following in some very good packing, on the results, the reason is day with a finish of 231st, with Roger Beswick (85th) not clear, but the rumour is and the oldest member of the edging out Ian Firla (87th), that he actually did an extra team Andy Lawes completed who was closely followed by lap by accident. 10

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London Cross-Country come 295th, and Rich Byford National Cross Country Championships completed the Blackheath Relays at Mansfield 16 November 2019 contingent in 406th to give 2nd November 2019 Several Blackheath athletes us 10 finishers: our best total A strong team effort was on were again on the charge at in years. display again on Saturday as the weekend over Parliament All of this translated into 13th 1 complete and 1 incomplete Hill in a boggy, undulating place out of 38 complete 4 to Blackheath and Bromley affair that reminded us that score teams. Naturally this side descended on a wet and winter had well and truly was rewarded with a few well muddy Berry Hill Park in arrived; and that even the earned refreshments at some Mansfield for the National comparatively short 10km on of Highgate’s finest drinking Cross Country Relays. Hampstead Heath is no mean establishments. Charlie Davis made his feat. seasonal debut for Blackheath Local resident Danny Brewer SEAA cross country Relays - with a strong performance led the charge after his stint Wormwood Scrubs on the ultra competitive first altitude training in Bolivia 19th October 2019 leg to come home in 38th in in an impressive 41st place Blackheath fielded a 17:17, a time that would have despite a stitch on the last single team at Wormwood been close to the top 10 on lap. Dan Kennedy followed Scrubs on Saturday to any other leg. Josh Schofield him home in 59th after a well run in the Southern XC continued his impressive judged effort, Luca Ercolani Relay Championships, form from Tonbridge last snuck into the top 100 in 98th with everyone performing weekend to charge through with a determined sprint to brilliantly apart from the the field in the 8th fastest the line, and Fintan Parkinson loan team manager. James time of the 2nd leg, 16:53, completed the scoring quartet Habergham ensured the trip to make up 20 places and 158th after taking the brave down south was a productive take some impressive decision to wear trail shoes in one with 2nd place after the scalps in the process. James the ankle deep mud. 1st leg and the 4th fastest Habergham, rapidly making Josh Dowling made a time of the day. Alex Gibbins himself indispensable to all welcome return to racing in continued the good work our relay teams, continued 172nd after some achilles with the 30th best time of the the good work to snatch trouble, Jon Vintner ensured day to bring the team back an extra place in 17:23 in a it was a worthwhile trip up in a very respectable 6th, battling performance. Sadly, from Winchester in 218th, before handing over to Dan this momentum couldn’t be while Heath also made a Kennedy, who promptly took maintained on the last leg as return to racing in 238th. the team back 8 places to 14th Dan Kennedy, a late change Chris Tuck continued his with an awful run. Ian Firla due to injury and illness, march back to full fitness in was on hand to steady the could only manage 19:42 263rd to just miss out on the ship, however, with a strong and lost 10 places to lead top half, Darren Corneille run to lead the team home in the team home in 27th. Far built on an impressive few 15th in only his 2nd XC race from a disaster, but below months worth of training to for the club. expectations. Athletics Report 11

Simultaneously the despite taking a heavy fall cross country specialist’ incomplete B team made down hill on the first leg. James Habergram. Despite the most of the opportunity being far from thrilled with to compete on the national Liverpool Cross Challenge the conditions, Habergham stage by all bringing their A 23rd November 2019 put in another superb athletes to the competition. This race incorporated the performance over the cross Tom Desborough came European XC champs trials for Blackheath, putting an home in 69th on the 1st leg held in Liverpool, 4 men took end to any rumours that he in 18:38, suggesting he might the long travel up north plus would prefer to run indoors have been better off in the A one supporter (shout out to than at nationals. Team. Mark Cage made his Will Ruiz) Charlie Davis was also long awaited debut for the First home was Team running however he seemed club by holding his own in a Manager Ross Braden, who to have forgotten his B&B solid 19:37 and Ian Firla got finally managed to put in HAC vest, which meant he in a relatively speedy work a worthy performance in was forced to run in the out in his preparation for Blackheath colours, finishing colours of Birmingham the Valencia Marathon by in 42nd. He was closely University instead. This completing the team in 20:07 tracked by Northerner misstep can be forgiven as to leave them back in 69th but Josh Schofield, who after a Charlie improved on already sadly without anyone to pass blistering start (briefly taking very good performances this on to it. the lead) settled down and winter to finish in 64th. A big shout out to former put in a fine performance Continuing and concluding Heathen Phil Sessemann for finishing a very solid 53rd. the Kent League defending the Cross Country The next Blackheath vest In spite of it being in the Relay title with Leeds City to finish was ‘800m turned depths of winter and at peak 12

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time for Christmas shopping, the next Blackheath finisher our home turf and mercifully a hardy group of athletes in 86th adding to his record clear skies and wind before turned out for the 4th Kent of being ever present at the the following day’s hurricane. League fixture at a windswept Kent League this season. Paul Said hurricane worked in our Foots Cray Meadows on 14th Sharpe backed him in 88th, favour as it prompted the December. also after having just run the cancellation of the Worthing First over the line for the Valencia Marathon. Chris Half-Marathon, allowing Heath was Dan Kennedy in a Tuck placed 100th exactly in team manager Ross Braden much improved performance his best league finish so far to run and storm home to on recent efforts in 18th. as he continues to improve as 3rd after a brief flirtation Backing him up in 39th and the season goes on. with 2nd. There was quite 41st was the redoubtable Darren Corneille also the scrap on behind him duo of Gareth Evans and managed his best finish between Danny Brewer, Dan Luca Ercolani, who both of the season in his third Kennedy and Alex Gibbins put in typically reliable consecutive outing to come in the race to complete the performances to bolster the 4 111th. This effort was closely 4 to score. A mid-race surge to score category. Completing supported by Greg Firth in from Brewer won the contest the quartet was Ian Firla in 116th, Simon Harris in 124th as he wound up 14th in a 53rd, hot on the heels of a and Jason Meers in 136th to strong performance. It was marathon PB in Valencia a ensure the 12 to score packed closer between the latter mere 2 weeks ago. well to come 3rd on the day two as Kennedy just out- Josh Dowling added to and hold the same place sprinted Gibbins after they his credentials as the most overall. Last but by no means both successfully moved up improved senior man by least for the Heath was Nigel the field to 18th and 19th finishing 66th in his first Haffenden in 141st ensuring a respectively. Kent League outing of the healthy competition for places In his first race for season. Roger Beswick was amongst the men just in front Blackheath in 9 months, of him. Rob Donohue ghosted past We were 4th in the 4 to score numerous opponents to place category on the day but 37th; a fine effort after a remained 3rd in the overall long time out injured. Luca standings, and with a home Ercolani enjoyed the notable fixture to cap the league off distinction of running all 4 in February we should be well of the league fixtures and placed to at least retain that improved his position in position. each one to come 40th and 1st in his age category. Ian Sparrows Den Firla sealed a fine first cross 8th February 2020 country season for Blackheath The Kent League season in 52nd; Roger Beswick again concluded in style with a gave a strong performance in large turnout for the club on his age category in 83rd; Paul Athletics Report 13

everyone’s resolve and allowing us to concentrate on racing. Despite an illness ruining his week, team manager Ross Braden stepped up to the plate with a controlled 11th place to lead the team home without putting undue pressure on himself. The next Heathens to finish were Danny Brewer and Tom Desborough in 26th and 27th respectively after a cat and mouse battle that drove them to higher finishes Dan Brewer and Alex Gibbins after the race than they would have attained otherwise. Dan Kennedy was Sharpe snuck into the top 100 a deserved reward for some the fourth man in 32nd after in 96th; Ian Scott, in his Kent fine performances throughout another well judged race to League debut, was just outside the season and at least a move through the field as it in 101st; Greg Firth was just dozen men being present at other competitors dropped behind in 106th; and Tom every single race. A special off. The ever consistent Luca Desborough rounded off the mention goes to Luca, Roger, Ercolani strengthened the scoring 12 in 113th. Paul, Greg and Darren for scoring sextet in 59th, and turning out at every race and Ifetobi Salako made his Oscar Hussey made a bold providing a strong backbone senior Kent League debut in and welcome step up to the for everyone else. Thanks so 124th after a crazy opening Senior ranks despite expecting much to everyone who turned mile, and just behind him to run the U20 race by coming out. was Jason Meers and Darren 70th and ensuring we came Corneille, who fought out Building up to the Nationals 4th in the 6 to score category. a good battle in 142nd and in the KCAA Championships Paul Sharpe made good on 144th respectively. Jon As part of the build up to the his promise of making up for Pairman came home in 153rd, National Blackheath returned the gluttony of Christmas by while Rich Byford and Rod to Brands Hatch on the first finishing 106th, Chris Tuck Harrington made a welcome Satruday of the new year on was close behind in 115th return to competition in 175th 4th of January to contest the as he continues to improve, and 205th respectively. Kent XC Championships. and Greg Firth performed We were rewarded with 3rd In an unusual piece of good strongly once again to place place in both the 4 to score fortune the usually freezing 128th. Jason Meers continued and 12 to score categories and wet course featured the the trend of the team packing for both the race and in the rare sight of the sun during well in 137th, and Tim Ayres overall standings, which was the afternoon strengthening completed the team in 153rd. 14 Athletics Report

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Rob Donohue continued his comeback in 435th. Fintan Parkinson in 691st. Josh Dowlings season keeps getting better with a 711th place completing the 9 to score. Greg Firth followed up in 787th. The mud took its toll on 1 Heathen as Richard Daniels lost his chip in the quagmire but estimation is that he came back in 810th. Jon Vintner didn’t let the recently acquired jewellery on his left hand drag him down with an 894th place. Blackheath runners lining up at the least muddy part of the Nationals course Chris Tuck came back in 1065th. Richard Byford Sadly it was 1 short of a full place Not far behind and managed to get one over his 12 for the 2nd year in a row, continuing his strong form old rival Tim Ayres in 1317th but you can’t have everything. shown all season was team and 1455th respectively. manager Ross Braden in 39th. Last but by no means least National Cross Country Richard Hall crossed the line Championships After much nagging and peer pressure James Habergham in 1495th to complete the Huge congratulations to all Heathans big day out. who took part in what was the was convinced to run a few muddiest national in years. meters further than his usual Final placings have us in 14th in the 6 to score and 16th in The conditions really were 800 and showed this was a 9 to score. A Huge thanks to something to behold. It was wise decision coming back in everyone who made the trip great to have such a good turn 120th. Tom Desborough then up.. It was also great to have out for a race outside the M25 demonstrated that spending a few beverages in the bright and even with a few injuries, 7 days a week in the gym lights of Nottingham as well illnesses and no shows we is paying dividends with a After the mud and slog of a still managed to field more 262nd place. challenging seasons, it was than enough scorers with 16 Alex Gibbins then came finally time for beer and runners turning out and also round in what we are lead to skittles. providing us with our highest believe was his 17th time of team finish since 2013. contributing to the 6 to score Ross Braden First home was Charlie Davis at the national in 306th. Team rather impressively in his manager Dan Kennedy then senior national debut making rounded off the 6 to score light work of the mud in 29th with a 336th place. Athletics Report 15 National Cross Country Championships Nottingham, 2020 – The Young Athletes

Ken Daniel and Pat Calnan The National XC 2020 and all of the parents and was another spectacle but athletes. Battling the wind all this year in very challenging did a great job of pitching and conditions under foot and over securing our base for the day head with 40mph winds and and at times it seem it may not muddy sections deep enough to have lasted the day as huge swim in! gusts battered the course. Wollaton Park, Nottingham, First to brave the quagmire glorious in the summer but conditions were the U17 girls brutal in the winter, was this running 5k and their strong year’s venue for the prestigious National and Blackheath squad of nine combined and Bromley athletes were superbly to win a fantastic The U13 girls had 3k of once again out in great team silver, sharing the same challenging terrain to numbers at what is the oldest score as gold but just missing negotiate and Megan Slattery Cross Country Championship out on count back. Naomi coped well crossing the line in the world. Toft ran brilliantly finishing in a high 26th with Francesca 14th, Ailbhe Barnes was an Middleton a great 51st, impressive 19th, Ava White Amie Gould 54th and India a great 35th and completing Blakey 80th. These combined the scoring four was Annie finishing positions saw the Thomas in 51st. Isabelle girls place a great 6th in the Stoneham was a strong 55th team competition. Megan followed in by Zoe White in Barlow was a good 101st and 84th, Amy Miller 92nd, Zakia Luciana Smith, in her first Mossi 105th and Jess Neal year of three in this age group 150th. ran well in 104th. Emily The U15 boys running over Deveney, celebrating her 13th a 4k course finished as 13th scoring team and were led home by Alessio Tutt running a mature and controlled Race day started early and race placing a high 40th. despite last minute changes Matt Smith running hard to arrangements by the placed 79th and Miles Brown organisers (due to saturated running his first National grounds and high winds) the for the club was 139th. Ted club tent was soon proudly Marston was 211th, George flapping in a great location Shaw on his continued come after a mammoth effort by back was 286th and Nathaniel Club President, Olympian Brunner in his first National Julian Golding, past presidents was 348th. 16

Continued

birthday was 132nd. Charlotte Bloodworth, another young athlete with three years in this age group not only made her National debut but also her club and cross country debut and she handled the tough conditions well, placing a great 185th. Completing the squad was Yasmeen Islam Medeaux in the team competition. Alex Lucas has two more years doing a few firsts: National, Middleton went off with the in this age group! Franco cross country race, club race leading pack and looked fairly Hillier has had a good winter and wearing spikes and coped effortless (although it clearly and kept our team hopes very well, outside of her wasn’t) as he powered to a top alive with a strong 148th and comfort zone, placing 308th. 10 finish, placing a superb Harry Fage ran determinedly 10th in his first National, The U17 boys had a gruelling to complete the team result very impressive. The English 6k to run and schools finishing 220th and more Cross Country Association international Oliver Bright importantly helping the team rules state that athletes must produced the club’s highest to a 9th place finish out of be 11 to compete in this individual result with a superb 44th complete teams. competition and primary 6th place finish, mixing it school boy Lucas Elmqvist The next 4k challenge was with the best guys in the has waited all winter to race, for the U15 girls and the first country and beating most missing all the Kent league, of the big BB squad home of them. Tom Brash, as all, Kents and Southerns because found the going tough but was Lara Mannes having run he was only 10! Last Thursday ran well to secure 101st and superbly to finish a high 12th. Lucas had his 11th birthday Joel Rooney ran well finishing Lily Meers was a fine 31st, her and so was eligible to run and 134th. BBHAC then packed highest National finish. Carys we thought a top half finish the field with seven boys all in a field of nearly 400 could battling for places and Jake be achievable if he worked Leng led them home in 207th hard. Lucas was having none with Will Andrews in 212th, of this as he went off with the Freddy Georgiou 228th, Justin leading 50 in the front pack. Stover 232nd Callum Horton Lucas kept going, seemingly on his National debut in oblivious to the conditions 239th, Bailey Marks in 259th and kept passing athletes as and Harvey Blanden in 273rd. they tired. Coming down the These great numbers meant last hill Lucas kept pushing an 11th place finish for squad. and surprised everyone The pressure was on the U13 (except himself) with a top boys squad of four, as all were 20 finish placing an almost going to be needed to score unbelievable 19th. Superb. Athletics Report 17

We were lucky enough to have “coach driver of the year” as he allowed the young athletes back on the warm, dry coach without having to struggle taking off foot-ware The coach looked a little like the course but after a thorough clean up Dave had it all spic Thank you Julian Golding and span for the journey (President) and all the past home the next day. Thank you presidents Chris Haines, Dave. Mike Peel, Tim Soutar, John Firth continued her fine form It was then back to the hotel Baldwin, Margaret Baldwin, and posted her best National to shower (we hope) before Mike Mahoney, Bill Foster, finish with a great 51st a swim and a table tennis Ken Daniel and Pat Calnan followed by Hannah Clark tournament before double and partners Terri Shotton bettering last year’s position in dinner (hotel food then and Jan Mahoney for all your 62nd. These results combined McD’s!) and Emily’s birthday help and support during this to win a brilliant team bronze. cake. big weekend. Many thanks to The squad strength in depth We are well supported club Nigel Stickings and Michele was shown by quality runs and that was evident by for their 50 hour solid stint from Gabby Martin in 72nd, the President and nine past ensuring our athletes were Kate Price in 91st, Olivia presidents in attendance safe and best prepared to Magee Brown in 146th, Cara scattered around the course compete. Gould in 208th, S.P. Maher giving much needed support in 287th and Isabella Louth to our athletes. Paul Austridge in 300th. Amelia Willars finished in 316th and Emily De Backer crossed the line in 342nd despite losing and finding her timing chip and carrying it across the line! Amelia Middleton completed the large U15 contingent in 346th. Sofia Loader was making her debut on this tough course but sadly ended up with the paramedics after injuring her shoulder. However, a great experience and many more opportunities to come. 18 The U20s Men and Women Winter Cross Country 2019/20

great run, making it two wins Always considered something from two races in the U20 of an intermediary age men’s 5k. Joe Georgiadis category between those formally finished high up in 6th But classed as young athletes and with no third runner no team the seniors, the under 20s result was recorded. Men and Women occupy a difficult ground which at times Danson Park results in there being limited 9th November muddy conditions was challenge enough but three resources of manpower and Joe Georgiadis was our sole of our U20’s put in good availability to consistently competitor in the U20 race performances with Callum field teams for competition. but placed a high 5th and Myatt 113th, Theo wood However talent is not limited this secures him second spot 140th and Matthew Francis and when fully available can in the individual table.Amy 143rd. We were looking good produce outstanding results Leach made it three 2nd for a fourth finisher but and of course a rich reservoir places from three in the U20 unfortunalty Ifetobi Salako of potential for the flagship woman race and sits firmly had to pull out during the senior teams. at the top of the league table race, nothing too serious and but unfortunately no BBHAC he hopes to be back running team score recorded. Kent League Winter 2019 again very soon. Swanley Park Foots Cray Meadows For the junior women U20’s 12th October 14th December having to wade through 6k The U20 men also recorded Matthew Francis was our only of mud Yasmin Austridge a superb team victory led U20 running and he secured a ran well to finish in 23rd and home by a storming Callum great 3rd place finish over the Amy Leach continued her Myatt breaking the tape first, 5k course. strong form with a 80th place closely followed by Joseph finish. Four were need for the We gallant few… Georgiadis in 3rd and Henry team score so unfortunately band of brothers and sisters Fisher in 7th. Amy Leach had no U20’s in the team result. a strong run finishing 2nd Much of the time though it For Amy Leach there was in the U20 women’s race but was down to the efforts of lone runners their sterling just bad luck in the South of as our only runner, no team England XC championships. result was recorded. individual efforts had to compensate for the fact As our sole representative in Somerhill Park, Tonbridge that no team score could the women U20 race but her 26th October be recorded or full team performance was strong but Amy Leach was 2nd in U20 could finish their race. was missed off the results due women’s 5k race with Millie For the junior men in the to a missing timing chip! Smith in 3rd but with three National Cross Country As has been mentioned needed to score in the team Championships the daunting athletes recorded fine result, no mark was recorded. task of completing a 10km performances as a team in the Callum Myatt had another course in extremely tough National Cross Country relays Athletics Report 19

where The U20 boys finished University challenges was 104th and in 41st with Callum Myatt As this is the age dominated Prince Reid (East leading them out, handing by university commitments it Anglia) 275th. to Ben Gardiner on two and was great to report a healthy In the woman’s Henry Fisher on three. And representation of Blackheath short race The U20 girls were led out by Under 20s at the BUCS Cross Yasmin Austridge, passing to Yasmin Austridge Country Championships – Mille Smith and then to Amy (Birmingham) Holyrood Park1 February Leach who crossed the line in had her best run 2020 -held in Edinburgh, at a good 16th place. of the season the famous Holyrood Park placing an As individuals several names representing their respective impressive 10th, do stand out: Callum Myatt, universities. with Jess Keene Jospeh Georgiadis, Matthew (Birmingham) Francis and Henry Fisher Over 1600 motivated athletes, and Maddie for the young men and each sporting their University Amy Leach who finished in colours with face paint, Mastrolonardo consistently high positions ribbons and various other (Birmingham) 34th and 44th with Millie Smith and colourful forms make up what respectively. Amy Leach (St Yasmiin Austridge. Amy and is arguable the best supported Mary’s) was 79th and Jess Joe showed this again in the cross country races of the Sellar (Oxford) 116th. Kent County Champs Brands season, collegiate almost In the men’s short race Josh Hatch 4th January 20 where tribal! Schofield (Loughborough) with as theonly U20 woman In the women’s long race was a great 24th, Oscar and only Niamh Bridson Hubbard Hussey (Warwick), Angus U20 man (Cambridge) ran superbly in a Harrington (Cambridge) running class filled field placing a very 274th, Alex Leggatt Amy high 10th. (Durham) 300th and Marco finishing 8th Arcuri (Durham) 356th. and Joe in In the men’s equivalent 15th in their long race, Charlie Davis One again it showed what can respective (Birmingham) was highest be achieved when this age races both placed BBHAC athlete group can be assembled in competed crossing the line in a good numbers. well for the quality 19th position. James club. Habergham (Leeds Beckett) Paul Austridge 20 The young athletes in the Kent Cross Country League 2019 Swanley Park The U17 boys combined well The U13 boys squad was 12 October 2019 to finish second in their team made up of three boys, The 2019 Kent league Cross race made up of the scoring enough for the three to score Country returned to Swanley three of Sam Reardon in team race. Franco Hillier ran Park for the first of the four 8th, Tom Brash 9th and Will a determined race placing a fine 6th with Jasper Brooks race series and Blackheath Andrews in 10th. The U17 girls made it three wins in a solid 13th just in front of a and Bromley HAC young three for the girls and they strong finishing Jed Starvis athletes made a big impression powered to victory with great in 15th. winning four of the eight runs from Isabelle Stoneham team races. The U15 girls had good in 2nd, Olivia Berry in 3rd numbers racing and were led The U13 boys were 2nd overall and Zoe White in 4th. home by Lara Mannes who with Alex Middleton having looked comfortable all the Somerhill Park, Tonbridge a great run finishing 2nd just way around the 4K course 26 October 2019 one second behind the winner. coming a fine 2nd. Hannah Josh Healy in a strong 5th and Race two of the 2019 Kent Clark was a strong 3rd and Franco Hillier finishing well League cross country series Carys Firth had another in 10th made the scoring trio. returned to the magnificent great run finishing 6th. Cara The U13 girls went one better grounds of Somerhill School Gould, not wanting to be winning the team race with in Tonbridge. A well marked outdone by her sibling also Molly-May Mooney-Clarke in out and challenging course made the top 10 with a fine 4th just ahead of Francesca awaited the 46 Blackheath 8th place finish. The U15 Middleton in 5th and Megan and Bromley young athletes. boys were led home by Matt Once again BBHAC girls Slattery in 7th. Smith in 11th, Alessio Tutt dominated the team races in 22nd and Ted Marston in The U15 girls were equally winning U13, U15 and U17 23rd combining to claim 3rd impressive winning the team team races with the boys team spot. race with Carys Firth running picking up 3rd in the U15 and The U17 girls looked a strong race and placing 3rd, U 17 and 4th in the U13. impressive again with 4 in the with Hannah Clark a great The U13 girls had the biggest top 7 and easily won the team 4th and Amarisa Sibley a solid squad racing, with 11 toeing race. Annie Thomas was a 7th. The U15 boys did well the line. Great runs from strong 2nd, Ailbhe Barnes a placing 3rd team overall in Molly-May Mooney-Clarke great 3rd, Isabelle Stoneham tough competition. Alessio in 3rd, Megan Slattery in just behind in 4th and Olivia Tutt went off well but lost a 4th and Amie Gould in 7th Berry a solid 7th. The U17 bit of ground after a fall but secured the team victory. A boys had good numbers recovered well to finish 14th. great debut run from Lara running and first home for A strong run saw Arthur Tunali- Flynn placing 8th and BBHAC in 8th was Tom Starvis finish a good 18th and a strong run from Tallulah Brash on his winter opener, 800m specialist Jake Anthony Ndikanwu in 9th making backed up by great runs from completed the scoring three 5 BBHAC in the top ten, Will Andrews in 14th and placing 25th. impressive. Sam Reardon in 19th. Athletics Report 21

completing the scoring trio was Ellie Osmond in 5th, recording her best run this winter. Isabelle Stoneham worked hard on the heavy grass course placing a great U15 boys Ted, Alessio and Arthur 7th and just outside the top ten was Olivia Berry in a Danson Park, Welling for the club and encouragingly good 12th place. 9 November 2019 she has two more years in this The U13 boys team were Danson Park, Bexleyheath age group. Lola Bischoff did fourth on the day with played host to match three in well to finish the 3.1k course impressive runs from Josh this winter’s Kent league cross after picking up a niggle on Healy in 7th, Jasper Brooks country series and despite the first lap. in 9th, year young Hendri a clash with the English The U15 girls had the biggest Verster in 16th and Harry Schools Cup, Blackheath squad of the day and Hannah Fage in 18th. and Bromley HAC girls once Clark powered home to seal Matt Smith left it late but again dominated, winning all her first victory of the season, made up a good few places in three U13, U15 and U17 team with Carys Firth having her the last 100m placing a fine races. The fewer number of highest placing to date with a 4th in the U15 boys 4.2k race. boys running, reflected in the fine run placing a solid 2nd. Alessio Tutt went out hard overall team results with a 4th Lily Meers ran hard to secure from the start and committed and two 3rds in the U13, U15 5th and ensure team victory well and should be pleased and U17 races. in the three to score race. Two with his soild 7th, his first top The U13 girls led proceedings more in the top ten with Cara ten finish. Arthur Starvis was out and another solid run Gould a very good 8th and a good 19th, Thomas Sugden from Molly-May Mooney- Cameron Kelly- Gordon an 22nd, Ted Marston 25th and Clarke finishing an impressive impressive 9th. Isabella Louth Nathaniel Brunner 41st. The 2nd, a great run from Amie had another great run in 12th, team is currently third in the Gould in a superb 4th and with Olivia Wauters in 18th, league. SP Maher in 21st and Abi year young Luciana Smith Sam Reardon led the Smith 35th. Completing the having a very strong run Blackheath charge in the squad over the 4.2k course placing 6th, completed the U17 race and placed well in were Libby Whyte in 41st and scoring trio. The team were 7th, backed up by Jake Leng ably backed up by great runs Amelie Willars in 46th. in 15th and Justin Strover in from Marie Salamanca 10th, In the U17 race Zoe White 19th, securing 3rd in the team Lydia Witcombe 14th, Tallulah finished the strongest with a race. Will Andrews finished Ndikanwu 16th. Alyessa Firla, powerful performance over 21st despite an uncomfortable also a year young ran well the 5.2k course scoring her stitch and Callum Horton finishing 23rd with sisters first Kent League victory. contiued his fine first season Maddie and Lydia Marston just Ailbhe Barnes ran hard from with a good 25th. With one 2 seconds apart in 35th and the gun and was rewarded fixture left the team are 36th. This was Lydia’s debut with great second place and second in the table. 22

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Foots Cray Meadows 14 December 2019 Blackheath and Bromley young athletes signed off the Kent Cross Counrty League in some style at a windy Footscray, claiming three team titles and four individual winners on the day. U13 boys Jed and Josh The fourth and final race in 15th with Marie Salamanca athlete. Jed Starvis also had a the series had all to play, for just behind in 16th but fine run posting his highest with individual and team titles importantly 6th in the IOT finish of the season in an to settle and the BBHAC club and Alyessa Firla crossed the impressive 12th place. championships incorporated, line in 27th. Next to finish was an added bonus. The U15 girls were equally for BBHAC was Isla Spink impressive as the U13 girls Good numbers turned up for making a great club debut in with twelve athletes putting the later than normal league 29th just in front of young in a shift for BBHAC. Lara finale but BBHAC numbers Lydia Marston running well Mannes ran with confidence were down due to winter in 30th and Amber Cockburn comfortably beating the illness and school Christmas in 34th. Tonbridge girl who had trips abroad. The girls have The team were well backed up won the first two fixtures. dominated all winter and by great runs from Hannah Hannah Clarke continued her it was no surprise to see all Nott placing 36th, and Isla fine winter placing 3rd and three age groups U13, U15 Griffin 41st, both making this was good enough to for and U17 secure team gold their club debuts. Completing Hannah to claim gold in the with such depth and quality. the squad was ever present individual overall table. Carys The U13 girls were first off Maddie Marston doing the Firth ran hard to secured a over the relatively level course full house, placing 49th on well deserved 4th on the day and best represented, with 14 the day but impressively 15th and silver in the IOT. Lily toeing the start line. Molly in the overall individual table. Meers was a strong 5th and May Mooney - Clarke ran well These superb runs ensured Cameron Kelly Gordon was a placing 5th but having ran that the girls stayed at the top great 8th. all four fixture well, found of the team table and were It was pleasing to see Olivia herself 2nd the individual duly awarded the winners Magee Brown back to full overall table (IOT). Megan team trophy. strength and finishing Slattery had a strong run in The U13 boys were most well in 15th place and Cara 7th and as did Lara Tunali effected by seasonal Gould in 22nd, earning her Flynn in 11th. Tallulah health and holiday issues an 8th in the IOT. Olivia Ndikanwu completed the but that didn’t stop Josh Wauters finished in 23rd and series on the day in a fine Healy running a great race Olivia was rewarded for her 12th but a superb 5th in the fininshing in 4th, neck to consistency with a 10th place IOT. India Blakey finished in neck with the 3rd placed slot in the IOT. SP Maher Athletics Report 23

also completed the set and highest placing of the year Olivia Berry completed the was 26th on the day and 13th with a strong 40th, placing set in a good 15th and this overall. Another to complete him an impressive 20th in was enough to claim bronze the series was race walker the individual overall table. in the individual overall table. Abi Smith and she proved BBHAC U15 boys were a solid Heidi Forsyth was 17th and her fitness with a 29th on the second in the team contest completing the strong squad day and 20th overall finish behind a strong Tonbridge was Sabrina Mannes finishing 20th. Blackheath and Bromley in IOT. Just behind Abi was squad. Libby Whyte in 30th and U17 girls were worthy team Amelie Willars in 34th. The Ten U17 BB girls contested winners. team unsurprisingly won the their 5k course and impressive BBHAC only had one U17 team title, comfortably. runs from all, saw them boy racing but what we lacked The U15 boys race saw six finish with 6 girls in the top in numbers we certainly made black vests racing and four 9 and all 10 girls home in the in quality as Oliver Bright of them were completing the top 20. Ailbhe Barnes had glided over the course and full race series. First home for already claim a 3rd and 2nd cruised to victory. No team BBHAC was Alessio Tutt who spot during the season and score on the day but a second set of determinedly and finish her efforts at Footscray were place for the season behind a well in 8th and 6th in the IOT. rewarded with a fine victory. strong Tonbridge was still a Arthur Starvis had his highest Ava White looked strong good result. finish of the series, placing a finishing 3rd as did Zoe Within this final Kent great 13th and 10th in IOT. White in 5th. Zakia Mossi League race we incorporated Ted Marston completed the was next home looking good our own “BBHAC Club set and made it a full family in 6th and Isabelle Stoneham Championships” and so all affair along side his two rounded off her great series our athletes placing 1st, 2nd siblings, finish strongly in with a 7th place finish but and 3rd were presented with 18th and 11th in IOT. Thomas more importantly winning the club Gold, Silver and Bronze Sugden finished in 21st and individual title. medals as in the table below. great to see George Shaw running again after a lengthy Amy Miller was a great 9th Paul Austridge break, finishing well in 32nd. and Ellie Osmond a great Nathaniel Brunner had his 11th.

U13 boys U13 girls U15 boys U15 girls U17 boys U17 girls 24 Kent County AA Cross Country Championships Young athletes

Brands Hatch, 4 January 2020 2020 got under way in chilly but bright weather on the fields around the iconic Brands Hatch motor racing circuit with the 2020 Kent Cross Country Championships. BBHAC athletes have clearly continued their training over the festive period posting some fine performances, winning one Megan, Molly- May and Luciana individual gold, one silver, two bronzes and two team gold followed by an impressive run Five U13 boys took to the 3k and 4 team silvers. from Megan Barlow in 9th circuit determinedly and in a In a day dominated by our just in front of Luciana Smith, close battle won a great team Kent neighbours Tonbridge who has two more years in silver. Josh Healy led them AC is was good to see BBHAC this age group, in a fine 10th. home in a strong 11th with young athletes mixing it up Marie Salamanca ran well young Jed Starvis running and our strength and depth crossing the line in 12th and well in 20th backed up by was rewarded by winning two debutants performing Jasper Brooks in 23rd. Hendri many county medals. very well on their first outing Verster’s run secured team for the club were Kyla Dervish silver as despite having the The U13 girls got proceedings same team points as Medway in 25th and Isla pink in 26th. under way and the young and Maidstone Hendri Amber Cockburn was a good squad of eight combined well finished 28th, one place to win team silver. Molly-May 30th and Maddie Marston in front of our rival, thus Mooney-Clarke had another continued her full season securing the silver. Harry Fage strong run placing 6th, placing 40th. completed the squad crossing the line in 32nd. BBHAC U15 girls have dominated the Kent league all winter so it was no surprise that they won the team gold but they had to work hard to achieve this. Hannah Clark ran hard and deserved her individual bronze medal placing a strong 3rd. Lily Meers pushed on well to finish 6th and year young Carys Firth was a strong Jasper, Jed, Josh and Hendri 7th. Cameron Kelly-Gordon Athletics Report 25

impressed with her 12th place as did Olivia Wauters finishing in 16th place and Olivia Magee Brown looked strong in 18th. Cara Gould was 26th, SP Maher 30th and Amelie Willars 35th completing the strong squad. The U15 boys once again had good numbers running and their depth won them a well deserved team silver. Matt Smith looked strong Jake, Tom, Oliver and Callum. placing an impressive 4th as did Alessio Tutt in a great Barnes looked very strong throughout his 6k effort and 8th. Thomas Sugden’s efforts winning a fine silver in 2nd was a worthy winner claiming placed him 26th just a couple and Zoe White looked equally the Kent County title. Tom of places in front Miles Brown, as impressive winning bronze Brash looked good placing making his BBHAC debut, in in 3rd. Isabelle Stoneham 9th with Jake Leng putting in 28th. Ted Marston crossed the placed a fine 5th just in front a good effort finishing 22nd. line in 33rd and George Shaw Callum Horton in his first continues his comeback with a of Ellie Osmond placing a solid 6th. Kent County Champs will be good 40th. Nathaniel Brunner pleased with his strong run finished in 52nd and Jonny With four to score in the U17 crossing the line in 28th but Ellerton, making his cross boys races we were fortunate more importantly helping the country debut completed the enough to have four running team secure team silver. squad in 58th. and their collective efforts Four girls made up the U17 were good enough to win Paul Austridge team and they all ran well team silver. Oliver Bright securing team gold. Ailbhe looked strong and determined

Thomas, Miles and Matt 26 Athletics Report National Cross Country Relays Young athletes

trio of Megan Barlow, Amie both handled the conditions We were all very fortunate Gould and Fran Middleton well, just a shame there was no that the National Cross combined well to finish a third leg runner to complete a Country relays in Mansfield, high 17th. India Blakey, Lara team result. Nottinghamshire, went ahead Tunali Flynn and Megan The U17 girls had two great as planned on 2nd November Slattery were just behind team running and the A team 2019, despite fears that this in 21st and only two places finished a high 10th with Tola great venue may not have been behind them in 23rd were Pearse running well on leg 1 available, due to bureaucracy! Maria Salamanca, Alyessa passing to Ailbhe Barnes on Firla and Luciana Smith. two, producing the fastest The superb course at Matt Smith had a superb race leg 2 of the day, handing Berry Hill Park offers coming home a solid 8th over to Zakia Mossi bringing everything needed for a in the U15 boys handing to the team home in 10th. The great Championships - tough Ted Marston and Thomas B team of Ava White, Zoe hills, woodlands, mud, grass, Sugden who both ran well White and Jess Neal pushed bucket loads of rain and wind coming home 30th. Nathan hard and finished a fine13th. and all this easily accessed Firla made his National debut In the incomplete C team by the large numbers of running the first leg of an Lucrezia Polloni showed she spectators in attendance. incomplete team but held his is in great form running a Forty three young BBHAC own well in tough conditions. solid opening leg. athletes made the three to The U15 girls had three Challenging conditions all five hour journey (depending complete teams and the A round but I’m sure everyone on when they travelled) to team of Hannah Clark, Lara enjoyed getting warm and Mansfield and were met by Mannes and Lily Meers all refuelling before the long the “worst conditions for 30 had strong runs, collectively journey home. A big thank years” as announced by the finishing a fine 8th place you to PP Dave Cordell and PA system! This meant that with 98 teams racing. Imogen VP Claire Austridge for times were slightly down on Hadley, Amelia Middleton taking the much needed tent last year but the effort and and Carys Firth finished well to Mansfield and back to the commitment was exactly in 43rd spot just in front of club house afterwards, to the same as always. The U13 trio Isabella Louth, Olivia hang up to dry! Many thanks boys trio were led out by Wauters and Cara Gould in again, go to all the parents, Alex Middleton, who had his 47th. team mangers and coaches spike ripped from his foot The U17 boys also finished who continue to support our after about 400m, but carried an impressive 8th with Oliver young athletes enabling them on regardless before passing Bright running the sixth to compete at this high level. to Hendri Verster and then fastest leg of the day (270 Special thanks to Paul Brash Harry Fage, both in their first racing) passing to Tom Brash who drove the testosterone National XC relay, bringing and then Sam Reardon who filled minibus to Mansfield the team home in 43rd in a both had typically committed and back, not an easy field of 79 complete teams. runs. The incomplete B team undertaking. The U13 girls had three was made up of Will Andrews strong teams racing and the and Freddy Georgiou and they Paul Austridge Athletics Report 27 English Schools Cross Country Championships Liverpool

Joel Rooney (London SB) placing a respectable 46th. With many sporting events finished 170th in his second Kent also won the IB team being postponed because ESAA champs. Oliver Bright title. Arthur Starvis (Kent of the currently growing (London SB) wrapped up the JB) making his ESAA debut Coronavirus pandemic, it cross country season with a ran well in 89th completing a was good to see the English solid 32nd. great winter Schools Cross Country Championships 2020 in Kent Other counties Liverpool, go ahead on 14 It was good to see Jess Neal 800m specialist Zakia Mossi March, following the latest (Kent SG) competing in her (Middlesex IG) finished her guidance from the NHS. 5th consecutive ESAA XC winter with a good 139th. Blackheath and Bromley and finishing in 161st. Zoe Ellie Osmond (Surrey SG) HAC had eighteen athletes White (Kent SG) finished her hard training ethics were selected by their school county best winter season with a very rewarded with selection to the to represent them at these impressive 39th. Triathlete Surrey team, who won team prestigious XC Champs. Isabelle Stoneham (Kent IG) silver, and Ellie finished a With only eight selected from made her ESAA debut placing good 171st. each county in each age group, 114th. Carys Firth (Kent getting selected is a great JG) at her second ESAA XC Paul Austridge achievement. placed a good 139th, 80 places higher than 2019. Molly-May Mooney-Clarke (Kent JG) London completed her very successful Lara Mannes (London IG) first season of athletics with finished her winter season selection to the ESSA XC and with the highest BBHAC despite ankle problem during placing of the day finishing the race, finished 325th. In a great 24th, helping team her first year in the age group London to win silver. Ava Hannah Clark (Kent IG) had White (London SG) was a an impressive run, crossing strong 30th and part of the the line in 51st. Another gold winning London team. athlete making her ESAA Ailbhe Barnes (London IG) debut was Livvy Berry (Kent finished her great winter IG) and she crossed the line season in 61st place and in 208th. helped London win team silver. Amy Miller (London Tom Brash (Kent IB) had SG) placed a good 131st been selected for these Key to age categories helping London to win Champs for the last two JG Junior girl team gold. Megan Slattery years but on both occasions IG Intermediate girl (London JG) in her debut was unable to compete, so it SG Senior girl English Schools Athlketics was good to see him finally JB Junior boy Association (ESAA) was a put on the blue Kent schools IB Intermediate boy good 143rd. vest and make a great debut SB Senior boy 28 South of England Championships Parliament Hill, 2020 – The Young Athletes

The biggest squad of the day was disappointed to miss the The 2020 South of England was the U13 girls and strong race but still managed to get Cross Country Championship runs from Megan Slattery around part of the course 25 January - at Parliament 17th, Francesca Middleton giving the girls support. Hill, Hampstead Heath were 20th, Megan Barlow 58th and once again run in challenging Ailbhe Barnes and Zoe Luciana Smith 61st combined conditions underfoot with White made up the U17 girl well to secure a solid 5th plenty of wet mud! contingent and both had great team place finish. Amie runs with Ailbhe placing a Similar to last year, Gould ran well to finish 64th, Blackheath and Bromley fine 15th and Zoe 30th, 26 as did Maria Salamanca in HAC numbers were down places higher than last year. 90th just in front of Tallulah for various reasons: injury / Unfortunately no team result. Ndikanwu in 92nd. Lydia illness, indoor champs or clash The U13 boys had six BB Witcombe crossed the line of sports and this reflected athletes making up their in 184th followed by sisters in the results with the U17 squad and a fabulous run Maddie and Lydia Marston and U20 age groups unable from Alex Middleton saw in 252 and 267 respectively. to field enough athletes to him coming home in an Lola Bischoff completed the score in the team competition. impressive 12th place. Only big squad finishing 282nd However, we did have many eight seconds behind, Josh in her first Southern XC fine performance throughout Healy had probably his best the age groups. championship race. Alyssa run of the season placing a Firla warmed up and was very good 20th. Jed Starvis raring to go but was hindered continued his great winter by a recent injury meaning a finishing 103rd with Harry reluctant withdrawal. Fage running well in 143rd. The U15 girls went two better Hendri Verster looked strong than last year also placing 5th in the run in and placed team on the day. Lily Meers 157th and Mark Constable, led the girls home a great on his BBHAC and XC 22nd, with fast finishing Championship race debut, Carys Firth 27th just in gained many places in the front of Hannah Clark in final half kilometre and 28th. Cara Gould completed crossed the line in 181st. The the scoring four, placing team were 10th overall. 84th. Olivia Magee Brown The U15 boys had a great was 147th, Olivia Wauters turnout and were led home by 158th, Amelia Middleton a strong running Matt Smith 168th, SP Maher 195th and placing in the mid twenties. rounding the squad off was Unfortunately Matt’s chip Amelie Willars crossing the wasn’t automatically recorded line in 238th. Libby Whyte, at the finish and so Matt’s sporting a damaged wrist, performance was missing Athletics Report 29

from the official results. automatic timing system and This is currently being so at present is not showing investigated! Arthur Starvis on the official results. More backed up his strong Kent investigation! schools XC run with a top 100 finish, placing 96th. Paul Austridge Alessio Tutt went off hard and finished 106th before dashing off to swimming in the afternoon. Miles Brown, making his full BBHAC debut ran well placing 126th and Thomas Sugden bettered lasts years position by 58 places placing 137th. Ted Marston also made a great improvement on last year, finishing 140th, 69 places higher than in 2019. Consistent Nathaniel Brunner completed the squad in 305th. The team were 14th without Matt’s results but this will probably be bettered when Matt’s result is added. Oliver Bright raced hard at this event in 2019 to secured a fine 7th place, and this year again went off with the leading pack, in the U17 boys 6k race but unfortunalty had to pull out at the start of the second lap. Hopefully no lasting damaged was done and we will see Oliver flying again very soon. Joel Rooney looked good all the way around securing 65th place and Freddy Georgiou completed the tough two lap course but fell foul of the 30 The Indoor Track Season 2020

Champs at Lee Valley and the 2020 BUCS indoors track This would be a shortened the athletes in action were and field champs. season prematurely closed outstanding as 13 medals down due to the onset of the BBHAC had over a dozen were won, including 4 gold, Covid 19 (Corona virus) students eagerly representing 5 silver and 4 bronze as well which caused a wholesale their respective Universities in as numerous top 6 finishes. lockdown by late March and what is a fiercely competitive Highlight of the day was yet it saw much achievement environment. especially from our younger Sarah Abrams winning athletes, most notably Kelechi the senior women’s long Kelechi Aguocha Agoucha, whose exploits jump with a massive leap (Loughborough) followed up particularly in the British of 6.39m, while Marcia Sey last weeks 2.22m club record Athletics League last won both the 60m sprint jump, with a comfortable summer marked him out as and 60m hurdles in the victory winning the high a rising star in track events under 20 ladies with 7.47 jump. nationwide. and 8.36 respectively, while Annie Davies (Kingston) Nana Gyedu won the under recently back from 20 shot in a pb of 13.90m. The SEAA Southern Indoor International duty, claimed There were silvers for Mallory Champs (Under 13,15 and 17) a fine bronze in a very Cluley in the 60m hurdles, at Lee Valley competitive 60m hurdles. Holly Mpassy in the 400m 3rd February 2020 Prince Reid (UEA) had a and Amarisa Sibley on the This meeting saw many busy weekend winning a long 800m in the under 20 ladies, club athletes in action with jump bronze, coming 4th 6 fantastic medals brought and silvers for Ben Sutton in the 60m and running in home. Sam Reardon won in the long jump, Benjamin both 800m and 1500m heats. the under 17 mens 800m in Gardiner in the 800m in the Mary Adeniji (Cambridge) 1.58.87, Barnaby Corry took under 20 men’s events, and was 4th in the triple jump and the Under 17 pole vault with bronze medals for Darcey a leap of 4.30m and Jacob Kuypers in both the 60m made the long jump final. Byfield took bronze in the sprint and 200m for senior Sophie Dowson (Brunel) triple jump with 12.86m. women, Josh Watson in was 5th in strong pole vault Oscar Whitcombe won the the 60m hurdles and Theo competition. Darcey Kuypers under 15 boy pole vault with Adesina in the long jump for (Brunel) had a great weekend 2.90m, and Faith Akinbileje under 20 men. coming 6th in both the 60m took 2 great silvers on the and 200m finals after going 60m and 200m with 7.83 British Universities and through tough heats and and 25.68 respectively. All Colleges Sports semis. Louise Evans (Brunel) of these athletes should have 15th February 2020 was a strong 6th in the fast fine season ahead of them. Sheffield’s impressive indoor 400m final. Yasmin Austridge It was the turn of the senior arena welcomed the best (Birmingham) ran a 25 second athletes and under 20s to of the academic crop from personal best of 10.06.70 to compete at the SEAA Indoor throughout the country, for qualify for the 15 lap 3K final Athletics Report 31

jump, with Annie Davies also making the final of the 60m hurdles but failing to finish. Even more medals for the youngsters who bagged 10 at the England Indoor Champs for under 15s, 17s and 20s in Sheffield Golds were won by Kelechi Aguocha with 2.17m in the under 20 men’s high jump, Ben Sutton finally broke the 7m barrier to win the men’s Krystal Galley wins her first national (bronze) 400m medal at the under 20 long jump with a British Indoor Championship in Glasgow fantastic leap of 7.10m, and Sam Reardon won the under and was only slightly slower side of the fence, running the 17 men’s 800m and also took in the final. show, was husband and wife 4th in the 1500m. There Michael Damoah (Sheffield) duo of Mark Purser (Chief were silver medals for Faith ran well on his home turf Starter - University of life) Akinbileje in the under 15 making the semi final of and Sam Purser track judge. ladies 200m in 25.02, also the 60m. James Habergham for Holly Mpassy who ran National Indoors on Glasgow (Leeds Beckett) made 55.71 in the under 20 ladies 20-23 February 2020 the semi final of the 400m, Barnaby Corry 4.20m The club picked up individual 1500m. Chizute Ogbedeh in the U17 men’s pole vault medals with Phil Sesemann (Cambridge) ran in both the and Nana Gyedu 13.38m in 2nd in the men’s 3000m in 200m heats and the 4 x 200m the U20 ladies shot. Three 8.08.96, Marcia Sey 3rd in relay. Ben Sutton competed bronze medals were also the ladies 60m hurdles in in the long jump and the 4 x won by Jeriel Quainoo in the 8.34, Sarah Abrams 3rd in 200m relay. Good to see Leah U20 men’s 60m in 6.79, also the ladies long jump with Everson (Cambridge) back for Zac Nwogwugwu in the 6.40m, (Sarah also went to and racing in the 800m. U17 men’s 60m in 7.01 and to win the Welsh indoor for Oscar Whitcombe in the Past President Bill Foster title) and Krystal Galley 3rd under 15 boys pole vault with was seen darting all over the in the ladies 400m. Other 2.91m. arena, there supporting his notable performances saw athletes, as ladies athletics Dan Putnam and Jonathan A new high jump star coach at Loughborough. Ilori take 4th in the 400m in the making Also spotted was VP Costas and triple jump respectively, Elsewhere at the Karageorghis, in his role as Jahisha Thomas took 4th in Loughborough Students AC coach and team manager to the ladies long jump and Zara Open on 1st of February the Brunel team. On the other Asante 5th in the ladies’ triple 2020 Kelechi Aguocha now 32 Athletics Report

Holly Mpassy won a 400m silver medal at the national indoor championships in Sheffield as a first year under 20

studying at Loughborough He would as mentioned 6th over 400m with his 47.40 leapt to 2.15m in the high above follow this up with performance, Jonathan Ilori jump to equal the club under other comfortable wins at ranked 4th in the triple jump 20 mens high jump record, the indoor championships in again over 16 metres, and tying Trevor Llewellyn from Sheffield (BUCS and England Phil Sesemann again broke 8 1978. This is a jump in excess Athletics) with jumps 2.17m minutes over 3000m for 7th of 7 feet! on both occasions. spot. Among the ladies events Over the following weekend 8 both Maya Bruney and Katy Blackheath athletes make Ann McDonald ran in the US February 2020 in Hustopece top rankings in the Czech Republic, to register 8th over 400m and Even with the indoor season Kelechi Aguocha was 7th over 800m, while Sarah only lasting a few weeks representing England in an Abrams continued her fine before the COVID 19 close international meeting and form with a 6.42m long jump down, the club had around smashed his recently set under and a new pb with Jahisha 20 athletes registering good 20 mens club high jump of Thomas 7th with her 6.36m enough performances both 2.15m with an amazing leap effort. in Europe and the US to of 2.22m. This also broke the make the top 25 in the UK club senior high jump record Nick Brooks of 2.20m dating back 40 rankings. years by Trevor Llewellyn and Kelechi Aguocha’s high jump Warren Caswell. A remarkable club record of 2.22m was improvement for a young good enough for 4th ranked athlete whose pb last season while Ethan Brown now at stood at 2.10m. University in the US ranked Athletics Report 33 Blackheath & Bromley 150th Anniversary Leader Board Mile Challenge Not quite over yet

In total the races saw 129 26 January 2020 Thanks to everybody who club members take part The 150 Leaderboard mile competed this season, we are with many coming back on races resumed today after still hoping to have logged numerous occasions, we an absence of 5 months due 150 different club members also saw 29 guests take part to the refurbishment at the so 21 short at this time, so including parents, siblings track and 7 runners took to come and give it a go. Also and friends. Phil Sesemann the track in warm and sunny a big thanks to may partners recorded the men’s fastest conditions. With Joshua and Steve Hollingdale and Tim mile with 4.04.33 with Josh Bernard recording seasons Ayres, and officials John and Schofield second in 4.20.55 bests and Margaret Baldwin and John and Sam Reardon third with Hubbard who gave up their 4.31.0. In the ladies’ section As we lost much of the time to enable these races to Niamh Bridson Hubbard was season to the track closure it take place. a runaway winner, not only is hoped that we will be able winning the race on the day to hold one more series of Nick Brooks by a huge margin but also races once the COVID-19 leading the times by an even lockdown eases. This will give bigger margin with her 4.57.1 athletes a final opportunity performance. Teenagers to come and prove their Hannah Clark and Amarisa fitness, reduce their times a Sibley were second and third little as most people will be respectively with 5.21.0 and a year older which is great 5.21.5. for the youngsters, but might not be so good for the oldies Fifteen Past presidents like the Past Presidents. The took part with Ken Daniel performances to beat are all the fastest with 5.58.18, detailed above. leading lady Ann Cilia 8.17.5. President Julian Golding a 20.18 200m runner in his prime and Commonwealth 1 200m Champion in 1998 2 ran a respectable 7.09 mile and his wife Samantha and 3 son Justin (aged 8) also took 4 part. Also great to see 2 race walkers take part with Shaun 5 Lightman achieving 10.39.2 6 and teenager Abigail Smith 7 clocking 8.42.7. 34 Masters Cross Country 2019/20

Bennet Cup A season that started well, As usual the Vets and included a successful dominated the Bennet Cup. Kent Masters, ended up in Congratulations to John disappointment for all with Leeson, who picked up the the Covid pandemic meaning winners cup. The last event an early curtailment to the (the closing 5) may have had season. to be cancelled but John was pretty much in an unassailable position being 39 points clear at the end of event 8. John had an impressive and consistent season. Starting with a win at the relay he continually led the field (or at least equal first), picking up good scores throughout and claiming a second place at Steve Pairman the SLH mob match. Clearly ran all 8 events – well done Chris Haines was being out John! thought on the scoring! John was also the only person who Second place was also a Vet, Mark Ellison, who finished just 3 points ahead of Adrian Stocks (another Vet). Probably deserved as Mark ran one less event, but it would have been an interesting head to head in the closing 5, seeing as 30 seconds separated them at the Ranelagh mob match! Sally Haffenden had a good season, and was the leading lady in the Bennet Cup, which included a 3rd place in the Xmas handicap event.

Kent League The Kent League is covered in detail elsewhere in the Gazette, but Vets did their bit in contributing to good Rod Harrington turns outs in a number of the Athletics Report 35

events, with many featuring finished 8th on the day, with well in the scoring. In the all 3 finishing within 10 overall Vet performances, places of each other! Indeed, covering the 4 Kent Leagues, we would have had a C Luca Ercolani finished an team with 3 other runners impressive 6th for the season representing the club in the (4th in M40) with Roger race; James Unwin, Mark Beswick in 11th (4th in M50 Ellison and Sheridan Morris. category) and Greg Firth Unfortunately, the M60 on 19th (12th in M40). Alex team was unable to match Gibbins had a very successful previous years winning ways, Kent League finishing 1st, but the team did finish 10th 2nd and 1st in the 3 events with Luigi Arcuri leading he ran. Also running 3 home John Turner and Dave events was Ian Firla with an Leal. Well done also to our 2 impressive first season in 4th runners in the M70 category, position of those who ran 3 with Peter Hamilton finishing races. Roger Beswick 3rd and Jim Phelan 10th. Kent Masters at the end of November. In the women’s events, Jane The Kent Masters was again BBHAC fielded a number Bradshaw did well in the held at Central Park, Dartford of athletes in various of the M45 category finishing in races. In the M40 category 13th closely followed by Sally the team finished 5th, led Haffenden in 19th. Maz home by Luca Ercaloni who Turner ran a strong race in finished in a strong 15th, the M70 category, taking 3rd with Tony Crowder, Gareth place. Evans and Steve Evenden making up the team of 4. Nick Swatton Also running were Paul Keregyrato and Nick Corry. The M50 team also finished 5th, with Anthony Heath finishing in the top 10 in 9th position. Ably assisted by Roger Beswick (16th) and Clayton Aves (34th), the team of 3 were only 4 points off of a 3rd position! The club were well represented in the M50 category – a “B team” of Dave Beadle, Steve Pairman Luca Ercolani and Nick Barber would have 36 The Bennett Cup Season 2019/20 2019

The road to victory taken by and in the eighth and as it This season’s Bennett John was probably one of the would turn out last race of Cup was won in unusual easiest in ten years in fact the the season, John, although circumstances. The growing last time that John won this gaining his smallest number threat posed by the oncoming trophy and there were striking of handicap points for an spread of the Covid 19 virus similarities to it. Not once event, had done enough to meant that the competition during the entire series was secure his second Bennett was concluded after 8 of the he not on top of the overall Cup victory. 9 scheduled events with the leader-board, having won last one being postponed as It was as said won in similar the handicap in the first race, Britain went into lockdown. fashion and by a similar the Will Boulton Memorial margin to that of 2010, The trophy went in the end to Relays. John Leeson the leader of the although on that occasion field after 8 events, his second He was temporarily joint a very emphatic lead had winning of the handicap leader after two races been established earlier competition. with Adrian Stocks but in the season, which then very quickly established a narrowed towards the end, comfortable lead over the whilst this time round the other challengers which by lead grew larger as the season the fourth event, the home progressed. Mob Match against South The most noticeable change London Harriers in late to this year’s competition was October had increased to 25 that the number maximum points and held steady after number of points to be gained two more events. in the handicap was reduced At this time he was followed to thirty but still allowing for steadily by Adrian Stocks anyone competing whether who might still have closed finishing or not to pick up at the gap, but in the Club 10 least one point per event. This Championships was he not may well have reflected the present to do so, and in his sadly diminishing numbers absence Mark Ellison moved of athletes competing in each into second spot, whilst event. another impressive points John Leeson’s total of 178 haul in the handicap (despite points was made up of a finishing 11th out of 13 in the consistent range of scores race) saw John’s lead shoot ranging from 30 points to 9 up to 47 points, and with and included two awards, it effectively clinching the a first and second place. competition. As a bonus he even picked Such a strong lead would be up a vets championships in very hard now to overhaul, the mens’ vets 60s category. Athletics Report 37

The 2018/19 final result was: 1st Luca & 3rd Jason - after the Closing 5 - 10 March 2019

Second place overall went to overwhelming 230 to 744 field although SLH took key Mark Ellison and third place, with SLH being more of a places to have the edge on went to Adrian Stocks. Luca competition 290 to 309. Blackheath. Ercolani in the defence of the In the more recently By comparison in the match cup which he won last year, instigated mob match away to Orion only 2 of the whilst finishing 8th and being against Croydon Striders and top 30 places were taken behind the front runners in Beckenham Road Runners by Blackheath runners and the handicap competition, did Blackheath were at least huge blocks of the home gain two awards, a first and successful against the former team permeating the field. third and took the Ponsford by 271 to 324 but were not The breakdown for the Pewter for finishing as first so against the latter (364 to away Ranelagh match was veteran in the SLH mob 401). In this field Blackheath even more heart-breaking; match. scored well in the upper three or four large blocks of One of the worrying quartile positions, but were opposition with Blackheath’s features of this season was heavily outnumbered by the best occupying but 11 of the the noticeably small fields Beckenham Athletes. top 50 places. competing in events. In the More worrying as of last And all the time a serious second two mob matches season though was the dearth of youth. (SLH and Ranelagh) the apparent lack of depth in the During the course of the numbers running for top of the field against the season the fastest times for Blackheath were 14 and 15 traditional opposition. There various distances were for respectively. Not surprisingly was some consolation in the 10 miles 1 hour 1’31’’ for the all three of the traditional SLH mob match that there men, run by Luca Ercolani, mob matches were lost. was near parity between the and 1 hour 4’19’’ for the Two very heavily; Orion by two clubs in the top 20 places women by Amy Leach; for 7 enormous margin of 67 to and a strong Blackheath block ½ miles 46.06 Dan Kennedy 434, Ranelagh by a far more in the middle third of the (men) 56.44 Jane Bradshaw 38 Athletics Report

Continued

(women); 10km 39.05 Alex There were vets most common age group for Gibbins (men) 44.22 Jennie championships within the serious cross country runners. Butler (women); 5 miles 25.01 10km race which were won by In all only 1of those 79 Dan Marks, and 32.55 Jennie Alex Gibbins (mv 40s), Roger competitors did all 8 events Butler. Beswick (mv 50s) and John and 56¼ miles over six The season included the Leeson mv60s). months, with only two others major cross country club The winners of the handicap completing 7 events. Only 13 championships which for the races were John Leeson completed 4 events or more men were won by Callum (relays), Callum Myatt (club and nearly 70% of all runners Myatt in the 5 miles (both 5), Luca Ercolani (Orion mob completed no more than 2. senior and Junior Men), match), Mark Ellison (SLH Clearly this was a dramatic as he did last season. The Mob Match), Andrew Smith fall in numbers from handicapper stated that (Xmas Yacht), Steve Pairman the previous year and “Callum Myatt had a triple (10km Champs), Ian Scott (10 demonstrates a steady and victory in winning the mile champs) and Richard seemingly inevitable decline Club 5, the Club 5 Junior Byford (Ranelagh Mob in cross country as an Championship and the Match). activity attractive to many Handicap. Although the As to the statistics of the club runners. Will there be courses might change a little competition, 79 athletes took an unlikely revival? Given the interest in the club’s from year to year, Callum’s part (61 men and boys and program shown by other time has not been bettered 18 women and girls with 167 clubs in certain events there since 2009 when Alex Bruce- total performances. The ages is always hope. But for now Littlewood won in 28:15.” of the runners ranged from the onset of the Covid 19 Alex Gibbins won the 10km the oldest 71 (Jim Phelan) to pandemic has brought a title, Luca Ercolani achieved the youngest 15 (Matthew temporary cancellation of all an impressive double in the 7 Smith, Ellie Dalby, Daniella athletic activity at club and ½ miles and in the 10 miles Harper, Ella Deighton and other levels level, and what (the title of which he was also Heidi Forsyth). The biggest with the entire summer track successfully defending). turnout of Blackheath and field program under In the ladies’ championships Harriers of any event was threat and forecasts that the the winners were Donna 43 for the Will Bolton Relays pandemic will revive in the Mewis in the10km Jennie with the smallest being 10 for winter, the cross country Butler in the 7½ miles, and the Orion Mob Match. season for 2020/2021 may in the 10 miles Elaine Raynor Of those 79 taking part in well also be abandoned. who won by default as the One surprising statistic was Therefore speculation of the only lady competitor. This that the age group with the increased decline or surprise was at least an improvement most runners as the youngest revival of cross country will on the 5 mile championships (10-19) with 21 athletes more be somewhat delayed. where there were no lady than the 40-49s which had competitors. always seemed to be the Wilf Orton Athletics Report 39 Triumph and Frustration at The World Athletics Championships at Doha October 2019 Dina – A world champion bronze medallists respectively, Dina Asher Smith’s athletic As a prelude to winning opted not to contest the event career has already been a ground-breaking world having pulled out before the distinguished with past championship title Dina heats began with fatigue, achievement but is still full of Asher-Smith won the 100m whilst her perennial rival promise for future fulfillment. silver medal, in a series of double world 200m champion At the World Championships ever improving performances, Dafne Schippers withdrew at Doha on the 2nd of but always finishing like a with an adductor injury and October 2019 on a balmy Blessing Okagbare, second desert night she broke new winner. In the heats she came fastest in the world this year, ground with a performance of first in 10.96, .3 of a second was disqualified from heat shock and awe she became the over English Gardner and five. first British female sprinter Jonielle Smith; in the Semi- to win a world championship Final she again came first in And then there remained title. Having won gold medals a faster time of 10.87 again Dina Asher-Smith,with a in the Olympics in 2016, by a slim margin over Jonielle first place in her heat over Golds in the Commonwealth Smith to set up a head to head Dezera Bryant of the USA, Games and European with other Jamaicans Shelly- smashing out the fastest Championships two years Ann Fraser-Pryce and Elaine time of the heats (22.32’) later, she continues to achieve Thompson and also long and with minimal effort. and is still maturing into standing rival Dafne Shippers. Dina advanced with graceful the athlete that Britain However the injured Shippers ease into the final of the 200 has dreamed of …and the did not start the final, and metres taking her semi final prospect of another Olympics with that advantage Dina in first place, again from in the near future looms if though beaten very narrowly Dezera Bryant with a slightly though not in the present year. by Fraser-Pryce held on to faster time of 22.16’. The second place beating Elaine prospect of a final against Thompson, and with it came Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson, the silver medal. the reigning Olympic It was however but a stepping champion, Bahamian Shaunae stone to greater things for Miller-Uibo and US silver she would surpass that in the medallist Brittany Brown as 200m later that week on the well as Swiss athlete Mujinga following Wednesday. Kambundji awaited her. It looked increasingly like only There was an even greater an unexpected turn of events break for her when the would deny Dina the 200m withdrawal Elaine Thompson gold, following her 100m made her a clear favourite for silver by cruising through the the gold medal. Thompson heats of the longer sprint on looked to be a world away Monday while her rivals fell from the athlete who won by the wayside, and Marie- the Olympic title in 2016, Josee Ta Lou, 100m gold and blaming a lack of sleep for 40

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only finishing second in her heat after missing out on a 100m medal the night before. Then when even bigger break came with the decision by Miller-Uibo to prioritise the 400m, “Asher-Smith was Dina Asher Smith… a world champion! gifted a golden opportunity to seize the first ever global and the gold medal was in the Saturday. The Team GB gold medal by a British female bag long before she crossed quarter made that final, sprinter.” It was now hers the line in a time of 21.88’ one qualifying from their heat to lose and that she was the that lowered her own national comfortably just behind favourite, so everyone was record. the Jamaica team although, telling her but Dina knew that The joy of winning could have Dina was not participating she would still have to go and induced such a life changing in this but returned for the perform and must be focused experience; “Normally I am final along with Asha Philip, on that. so chatty and full of energy, Ashleigh Nelson and Daryll Nieta. Unfortunately it did In a systematic destruction but I am lost for words,” not bring for Dina and the of her nearest rivals, Brittany she said. “Everybody keeps team a coveted gold medal but Brown, who ran 22.22’, and saying world champion, world they still ran in impressively the Swiss athlete Mujinga title, but it hasn’t sunk in and behind the Jamaican quartet Kambundji, who claimed honestly I don’t think it ever to claim silver in 41.85. This bronze in 22.51’, were barely will. I have dreamed of this meant that Dina became the in her slipstream and were and now it’s real.” first British athlete to win left trailing in the wake of After the winning three medals in the World her ‘supersonic spikes’. What performance she paid tribute Championships. was displayed proved to be to her coach, John Blackie, an exhibition of Dina’s most who has known her since she After this latest campaign of extraordinary talents. was eight – and saw in her glory what next? Dina knows that the coming Olympics There was the usual some special potential. “That rocketing start. Then a bend we’re champions together will be tougher and she will so geometrically perfect ‘it means so much to me.” At a have Shaunae Miller-Uibo, could have been drawn by time when the reputation of to contend with assuming a compass’. “Asher-Smith athletics is has been justifiably that she concentrates on the came off the bend with her tarnished for its drugs cheats 200m. Obviously she said nose in front before powering and falling popularity, here that she would have wanted to away from the rest of the was a champion to be proud run in front of a stacked field pack in the final 60m. And, of in the post Usain Bolt era. but added “at the same time a to complete the performance The champagne, however, world title is a world title” a combination of grace and would be put on ice until Anyway Dina’s achievements power right to the finish.” after the Womens’ 4x100m in Doha ought to give The race itself was a formality relay final on the following her something of an early Athletics Report 41

advantage and act as a major factor in her favour. Her 200m time was so fast it would have won 13 of the 17 world championships.

Adam frustratingly close The starting lanes for the finalists in the womens’ 200m again Meanwhile Adam Gemili However the final would be However on reflection he came agonisingly close to his a case of experiencing that tried to identify some positive maiden major medal in 200m sickening phenomenon, the aspects. Often considered a final missing out on a podium narrow margin between the relay runner rather than an place by five hundredths ecstasy of victory and the all-out sprinter, he had been of a second just as Dina agony of missing out. He was written off. Of course there Asher-Smith eased into the in tears as he made his way was consolation for Adam women’s 200m final. It was through the interview area, running in the final of the as with the Olympic bronze needing to be consoled by his men’s 4x100m relay when as which he missed by just three mother, Sacha. Gemili could lead-off man he contributed thousandths of a second. But hardly be faulted in how he to a solid team performance in the desert of Doha, he judged his race, matching his which saw them secure silver again fell agonisingly short, season’s best of 20.03’, but in medal place in a time of as American Noah Lyles took the shape of Lyles, Canada’s 37.36’behind the USA. gold. Andre Grasse, and fast-rising Whilst it hadn’t brought him As ever, it will be no easy Ecuadorean Alex Quinonez his hoped for individual task. Having won his heat on –the competition was simply medal, this would have the previous Sunday, Gemili too fierce. rekindled the desire for it replicated the feat in his and he still regarded the Gemili was stinging in his semi-final the following night, upcoming Tokyo Olympics, self-reproach, after being triumphing in 20.03’. That was as a winnable prospect. overhauled by Quinonez only marginally the fourth fastest Maybe the form-book a few strides from the line. time behind Noah Lyles, Alex might be against him as his He stated that he had run like Quinonez and Zhenye Xie. personal best doesn’t come He wanted to win his semi, in an amateur. “I had it but lost up to Noah Lyle’s for the order to get a good lane for my balance. I had nothing left 200m, and he has struggled the final and yet still did not at the end, but all my form over the years through feel he was firing 100 per cent went out of the window. ….. injury and misfortune, yet but reckoned there would It’s the same, if not worse, he has made European and more to come. Saying that he than the feeling in Rio.”……. Commonwealth podiums and felt confident, he just wanted Not to break 20 seconds is time is still on his side. to go out and put in a bit more disappointing, heart-breaking. effort and once there anything I had the medal and it slipped Wilf Orton could happen. out of my hands”. 42 The Origins of Blackheath Harriers

County Cup with meetings change galvanising in society This is taken from the organised by the L.A.C and at that time, particularly appendix in the Club A.A.C; as well as athletic a desire for improvement, History 1869 to 1988, clubs there were cricket clubs modernisation and moral which we hope to update up such as the South Norwood reform; and what was the to the 150th Anniversary C.C and Lewisham C.C, spark igniting this change? Year. This looked at the football clubs (Red Rovers Well one of its sources came origins of the club around and West Kent) and rowing as often in more recent the time of the time of its formation and first race clubs, as well as the German times from a war; Certainly in October 1869 and the Gymnastic Society who all the effects of war has been various sources from which promoted big events. instrumental in many far the fabric of the club came In the provinces for example reaching social and cultural together in those distant past a major promotion was changes An ironic bi-product days. organised by local cricket of these changes has been clubs on Merseyside at which the promotion of such phenomena as good health Whilst there does not exist leading athletes especially and athleticism. extensive records of the cross country runners were inception of the Peckham invited. In other areas such It is accepted that the more Hare and Hounds which was as Swansea and Stamford recent major conflicts in the forerunner of Blackheath promotions attracted local British History have effected runners of high quality, often society in more ways than Harriers it has been possible meetings being gala social just politics. In the past to restore much of the events often held in the close hundred and thirty years background in order to season winter months when attitudes to public health provide an overview of the cricket clubs would not be in Britain, and the role of state of organised amateur competing. These meetings the state in improving the athletics at the time of the pre-dated the specialised health of the population, formation of the club. athletic clubs and influenced have changed dramatically. Looking at that state it is their format, the London Much of this came out of the commonly accepted that Athletics Club having effects of the three major the sport had reached derived its rules and culture wars in which Britain fought an advanced state of from the West London in the Twentieth Century. development during the Rowing Club. By 1860 The Boar War 1899-1902 1850s. There was a wide non specialised clubs were was won eventually in 1902 and diverse range of activity habitually holding meetings but it revealed wide ranging with major competitions throughout the winter. inadequacies in British taking place in venues all But what was going on in Society, and caused wide over the country. In London society in general to foster ranging social reforms, for instance there was this growth of activity? health, education and competition for the Surrey There were indeed forces of welfare. Feature 43

The demands placed upon Ignorance, Squalor and Empire on garrison duty, Britain were vastly increased Idleness’. it had insufficient forces available to quickly compose by the pressures of the First However the social and despatch an effective World War that lasted from inadequacies uncovered by expeditionary force to a new 1914 to 1918. By 1916 a these wars had long been in area of conflict, unless it was policy of conscription had evidence when uncovered by to reduce the British Isles’ been introduced, but. In 1918 Britain’s hollow victory in own defences. a quarter of all men were the Crimean War of 1854-56. graded II or III, (Men were The military blunders of Even in a period of its graded I,II or III for fitness) that conflict brought to the history, the long peace of a statistic Prime Minister attention of the public the the continent between 1815 David Lloyd George many flaws of a society in and 1870 when Britain and described as ‘appalling’. He desperate need of reform. her Empire appeared to be said in 1919 that ‘you cannot undisputed master of the Of course the big difference conduct an A1 empire with a world there still remained in the changes wrought by C3 population’. underlying threats to its Britain’s shortcomings in safety. Whilst the threat In the immediate aftermath Twentieth Century wars posed by the pervasive of the war a Ministry of was that by and large these presence of the Russian Health was set up under Dr were made due to the need Empire was in temporary Christopher Addison who for social reform and the abeyance, there was was instrumental in creating maturing of democracy ironically mounting friction the Ministry and directly in society, whilst in the with the rival empire of related it to the problems Nineteenth Century change France, under Napoleon III of public health that were occurred in reaction to a recent ally in the Crimean identified during the war. moves to promote morality War which was the most By the time the Second and values, to erode and advanced military power World War began in 1939, diminish the anomalies on the continent of Europe the Ministry of Health had of tradition and privilege, and spreading its imperial improved public health in and stimulate the rise of influence worldwide. The Britain considerably. In meritocracy and social perceived threat of invasion 1942 a senior civil servant, mobility and lastly to address by the much larger French Sir William Beveridge the threat posed by rival Army was such that, even created a report that laid the nations of invasion of the without sending a third of foundation for Britain after homeland and its colonies. the army to another Crimea the end of the war. In the Following the Crimean style war, Britain’s military Beveridge Report five ‘giant War, it was painfully clear defences had already been evils’ were identified that to the War Office that, with stretched invitingly thin. blighted the lives of British half of the British Army Anxieties arising out of people - ‘Want, Disease, dispositioned around the the Crimean War were 44

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also reflected by the chaos above Brighton involving Universities military training and anarchy of the Indian 20,000 troops. played an influential part in Mutiny, growing tensions In 1859, the Secretary of the educational curriculum between Great Britain State for War, Jonathan and this regimental interest and France and lastly the Peel issued a circular letter in athletics and gymnastics outbreak of a war between to lieutenants of counties was being passed on to the France and the Austrian in England, Wales and civilian population via the Empire in 1859 for the Scotland, authorising the volunteer army which was establishment of Italian formation of volunteer rifle expanding in numbers. From independence generated fears corps to be raised under the 1859 most of the volunteer that Britain might be caught provisions of the Volunteer units were light infantry up in a wider European Act 1804 which had been formations, which meant conflict. used to form local defence rifle regiments but which started out as civilian clubs. If France had the military forces during the Napoleonic One example of this was and even naval potential to Wars From its formal The Gloucester Docks Rifle threaten Britain, then British inception in the 1850s the Volunteers, founded in July military strategy had to be numbers of the volunteers 1859, who saw themselves concentrated on improving grew from 160,000 in 1862 as a club, as their manifesto domestic defences by way of which 134,000 were states:- of coastal forts, inland rifleman, to over 260,000 fortifications such as a by the mid 1890s. A Royal “This Club is formed on Patriotic ring of forts around outer Commission in 1862 which principles for the purpose of London, and building up made recommendations as to acquiring skill in the use of the an effective military reserve the funding and composition Rifle, which, we consider, should through stimulating virile of the Volunteer Force led be National and habitual, that we activity. Starting in the early to the Volunteer Act in 1863 may be prepared in the event of an 1850s a volunteer force which placed it under the Invasion to defend our Country, was built up with a strong jurisdiction of the lieutenants and ….. to obey the Commands emphasis on infantry units. of the counties. Then in of the Authorities, taking an The national mood was 1872, under the provisions oath of allegiance to the Queen if stoked up by eminent literary of the Regulation of the required.” figures such as Alfred Forces Act 1871, volunteer The Rifle Volunteer Tennyson who captured units became increasingly Companies of the spirit of the time by integrated with the Regular Gloucestershire were publishing his poem Riflemen Army. later organized into Form in The Times in May As a basis for the units, many two battalions, the 1st 1859, and the popular press communities had rifle clubs Gloucestershire (City of so much that by illustration for the enjoyment of the Bristol) Rifle Volunteers there is the instance of “the sport of shooting but already and the 2nd Gloucestershire Times “ reporting a field day in the public schools and the Rifle Volunteers. Feature 45

An earlier example one of S. Collins, A. Darnell, J.H 1872 writing a letter to the which founded in 1849 was Easthie, W.H Hawke, W. Camberwell and Peckham the 1st Surrey Foot Artillery Henman, and F.H Reed. Times. which started out as a rifle Led off by two hares and “Sir, I beg to state that in October club which in turn was following a course measuring 1869, a Hare and Hounds Club organised as a voluntary some nine to ten miles was started under the title of the unit, but one encouraging through Denmark Hill, ‘Peckham Hare and Hounds’ (the athletic activity not far from Lordship Lane, Dulwich, rendezvous being at the Kings’s the ethos of the burgeoning Sydenham, Forest Hill Arms) by the gentlemen who athletic clubs. and Peckham Rye, with a were the originators of the present running time of 97 minutes. In time this became the 1st Peckham Athletic Club”. Surrey Rifles and together Organised in two groups Over the coming years with the Hanover Park (List A and List B) they there would be doubts in Rifles continued to organise included members of athletic meetings from the running clubs, cricket clubs athletic circles that this 1860s onward. One club to and rowing clubs as well club was a fully constituted have close links with the 1st as the German Gymnastic organisation as opposed to Surreys would be a newly Society. As such they formed a loose knit hare and hound formed running group called a diverse mix of different group meeting sporadically Peckham Hare and Hounds sorts of sportsmen to with no form or constitution and its successor, Blackheath whom paper-chasing over but by 1882 it had grown Harriers would have long the country was for them a and become what for many standing connections side-line from their habitual years was to be known in with the successor to the activity. For Blackheath the athletic world as a whole Volunteers, the territorials. founding father F.H Reed his as Blackheath Harriers. As the club history would state So in this mature and origins lay in being a regular “the existence or otherwise of a established state the athletic member of rowing teams for continuing entity at Peckham world became the gestating Thames Rowing Club. from 1869 onward does not seem umbrella for new clubs, Because of the inference the senior amateur clubs in the athletic world that to have been the real issue in the nurturing the newcomers. this motley collection of controversy”. In October 1869 a notice individuals resembled more Reed did however mention appeared in “Bells Life of a hare chasing pack than that by then a relatively new in London” reporting the a fully formed athletics breakaway club had been first official run of the club, there remained some formed by former members Peckham Hounds recording dispute as to the actual date of Peckham Amateur the presence of certain at which the club was duly Athletic Club…the South gentlemen. These were constituted. Reed himself London Harriers. Messrs C. Black, Cornell, A. would attempt to put Johnson, W.H Williamson, things straight by in May Wilf Orton 46 Ian Wilson My early experiences with Blackheath

The recent notice of the death group was made up from Past President Ian Wilson of VP Derek Hogg caused members of various clubs. reflects. “These strange times me to reflect on my first Kent AC, Cambridge H, have caused me to reflect on experience on becoming a Deptford Park and, of course various things including my member of our great Club. Blackheath. All were very first years with Blackheath. I was 15 almost 16 when I friendly particularly Alan More thoughts were revived Naggs, John Oliver (Kent AC) when I saw the recent notice of joined in June 1959. How and Dave Dellar (Cambridge the death of VP Derek Hogg different things were then. I Harriers). Also, I found out and made me realise what a was introduced to the Club that the Club had a Club debt I owe Blackheath and by Peter Kingdom, who was House in Hayes which was how fortunate I was to join a 440 yards runner about 2 open on Saturday afternoons them in the first place In my years older than me and who 60+ years membership I have went to Alleyn’s School. He in the winter and Wednesday been a second claim member lived opposite me in Forest nights year-round. I could of a few other clubs around Hill and my Mum thought it not do Wednesday nights as the country none of which was would be a good activity to I was still at school and lived as good as Blackheath. Also, get me off the streets! in Forest Hill, so getting things have changed in many there was a problem. We did I had little knowledge of ways during that time”. not have a car and I only had athletics having run only the a bike. Saturday afternoons 100 yards and 1 mile at my were OK and I used to cycle school sports that summer. to Hayes from Forest Hill. I went to Samuel Pepys in It was Derek Hogg who lead Brockley, a training ground the group in true, traditional for BH Presidents. Dave Blackheath “pack running” White was a year or two ahead tradition. Now, I would not of me. call what Derek did coaching The center of my Blackheath but he did introduce us to world was Ladywell Park the enjoyment of endurance track. On my first Sunday running and provided great there I was put in the sprint encouragement. group coached by Roy Rudd. I Our group comprised about was not a sprinter and did not 15 or so of our younger really enjoy the training,but members, of very varied kept going. ability and I think I was one I had a break while I went on of the youngest. My age my summer holidays. When group was “Boys” i.e. under I returned, I found another, 16 years, and there were very friendly group who went very few races for Boys that out of the track for a run on Blackheath entered. The age the roads for 5 miles or so. groups were deferent then This I really enjoyed. The than today. The following Feature 47

year I would become a Saturday group may have in Lausanne and in the “Youth”, 16 to 18 I think, and been. These included Frank basement, they had a video you then moved to “Juniors” and Harold Rogers, Roger library and that was the race 19 to 21. After this you Pinder, Brian Heaver, Dave that was the most viewed of became a Senior. There was Prangnell, Dave Moore, Grant all. The other day I found it not even very much “Masters” Demar and Tony Carlton. on YouTube. Worth a look if running. So, I really only you have not seen it. I was aware of a senior runner started running when I was from New Zealand who In the following winter just 16 unlike today when joined the Club at the start season, 1960/61, I was a athletes, starting at under of the 1959/60 cross county “Youth” and did 9 races 11’s could have done 10 years season. His name was Alan for the Club, 7 races for my before they become seniors. Stevens, and he was much school plus a Road Relay at In my first winter season older than me and I did not Brockley County School, plus with Blackheath my Training really get to know him until the Club Paper Chase. diary, really it is a record of the 1989 World Cross County The Paper Chase was an races only at this point and it in Aix Le Ban when I was experience. I was “looked records just 4 races as a “Boy”. Great Britain Men’s Team after” by Alan Brent and Roy 5th December1959, Match v Manager for the first time. Morley among others. We Poly H. at Ruislip, 4 miles I In the summer of 1960, I were out for about 1 hour 50 was 8th. Only 1 Poly H turned did 10 races on the track as a minutes, the longest I had up so it turned into a training “Youth” for Club and School. ever run for and I was very, run. I managed a pb for 1 mile of very tired. When I got home, I did not want to eat anything 19th December 1959, Match v 5:05 on 5th May/1960 when and my Mum thought I was Hawes Down School at Hayes, I was 5th. Also, I managed a going to die! I recovered and 3.5 miles I was 8th in 24:30. pb for 880yds of 2:15.1 in the enjoyed the rest of the season. This race is recorded in the Kent Championships at Erith Gazette. 7th May/1960. My highlight I was selected for the Club was on 20th June1960 at in Kent Cross Country 27th February1960 Match Lower Sydenham when I Championships in Sparrows v Watford H at Hayes, 3.5 won the ¾ mile handicap in Den on the 7th January1961. miles I was 8th in 23:53 and I 3:04 and won my first Club It was 3.5 miles and I was recorded that our team won. Handicap Spoon. 10th of 60 in 20:49 and our 26th March 1960, Road Relay I do remember watching the team was 1st. The next at Brighton, 4x1 mile Team final of the men’s 1,500m big race was the Southern were 22nd I did 5:15. Not sure in the Rome Olympics on Counties XC Champs on which leg, but the report in black and white TV. It was 18th February1961, I think at the Gazette left me out of the a masterful win by Herb Ewell. It was 3 miles and I was result! Elliot in a World Record 89th of some 300 to 400!!!! Looking through the Gazettes time. In 2003 I went to The highlight of the Club I am reminded who some of the International Olympic season was the English the people in Derek Hogg’s Committee museum National Cross Country 48 Feature

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Championships at Parliament disheartened when we started sort out the finish and, if Hill Fields, Hampstead Heath, going up the Start hill for a have time find out as much on the 11th of March 1961. second time that I decided to about the course as you can. Although this was really a walk. I felt worse so I stared Perhaps this started me off “home” race for us, none of running again. I finished on Team Management? I the Youth team knew where 200th of some 600 or 700 in did not foresee where all this it was. We arranged with our about 22 minutes. A very big running would lead to. For Team Manager to meet him shock to run in field of that example GB team manager under the clock at Charing size. I do remember watching for cross country for 7 World Cross Station, which the team the finish of the senior men’s Championships, 1989 to all did. The Team Manager race which Basil Healey won. 1995. Making lots of friends. did not turn up and we never He made it look very easy. Things are so different today; I hope today’s young runners did find out what went wrong. For my school I ran in the get as much out of it as I did. After a while we looked at London Schools Champs at to the underground map, Sedgehill School representing PP Ian Wilson found Hampstead Heath tube South London Schools. It was station and went there. We over 3.66 miles in Beckenham could not find one called Place Park, I was 6th of 61 Parliament Hill! Time to in 20:11. The first 5 were all the start was running out! from Wandsworth and most When we surfaced, we asked of them went on to become directions to the start and GB internationals. The realised we were on the wrong Holt twins, Bob and Dave, side of the Heath. We jogged Sandford, Hailday etc. This to the starting area, found was probably my best run of some more BH members, the season and got me selected got changed and were given to represent London Schools numbers. We got to the start in the All England Schools with about 5 mins to spare XC Champs at Peterborough not knowing anything about on the 18th March 1961. That the course. How far, how was 3.5 miles and I was 96th many laps or how the race was of about 300. Our team was started. 4th and I was 6th counter. An The race was about 3½ miles, experience I will never forget. and a lap and a bit. It was The pace was so fast and started by dust bin(!), where people were falling over all the races do now but to finish over the place. you had to go up the start hill The things I learnt form for a second time, at the top my first two winters with turn left, up another hill and the Club were to find out finish at the top of another how to get to races, when at hill. I was so tired and the race sort out the start, Club News 49 The 150th Anniversary Dinner at the House of Commons Members Dining Room 7th November 2019 Whereas some of the events carried his name. However The Blackheath and Bromley originally intended to take the dissolution of parliament AC 150th Anniversary place by the organising on 5th November and the dinner, which took place committee back in 2015 calling of a general election at the House of Commons were to be the undertaking meant that Colonel Stewart Members Dining Room on of individuals or specialist could no longer be our host the 7th of November 2019 groups, or to involve athletic was one of a number of events and our 150th Anniversary activity by those fit enough or Dinner had to be restyled as a intended to mark the club’s willing to take part, this was private function. Fortunately anniversary year 2019-2020, truly an all inclusive event, but perhpas was the apex Colonel Stewart was able to which could be attended by of the year of celebrations attend as a private individual all with an interest in the club marking that anniversary. including partners, social with restrictions placed on members, administrators, and his contributions to the for that reason could be said proceedings. to be the main event of the Other guests also invited anniversary year. were Professor Myra Nimmo, The function was held in the place of the normal the club dinner normally held later in November most years and168 members attended, more than any other social event in recent decades, including even those recent club dinners held away from the cramped confines of the present clubhouse. However it is worth remembering that at one time club dinners were held in a variety of venues, and had in fact taken place at the Members Dining Room a number of times from 1959 to 1962. Amongst the special guests invited were our local MP (for Beckenham) Colonel Bob Stewart DSO. M.P Planning for the dinner began in May 2018 by courtesy of Colonel Stewart and formal invitations Mike Macfarlane 50

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The tables were laid out after the manner of top-class restaurants Chair of England Athletics, club and Denise Finn; Ade and former Commonwealth Sofolarin, club member and Games 200 metre winner major benefactor and Ailee Mike McFarlane. the Macadam Presidents of four Clubs with In addition there were present whom our own club has had a along with the current long standing rivalry: President Julian Golding 17 Michael Farmery Thames past presidents and 34 Vice Hare & Hounds, Richard Presidents, and also 6 of the 8 congregate in Westminster Carter South London Trustees. Hall, familiar faces merging Harriers with faces from the past and The evening was built around former members who for Rebecca Curtis-Hall Ranelagh a time slot allowed by the some of us were just names Harriers, Robert Jousifffe House of Commons starting read out from an honours Orion Harriers; Claire Capon with a drinks reception due board on the walls of the club President Kent County to commence at 6.30pm. house or mentioned in hushed AA; Allan Finn Biggin Leading up to this members tones of reverence for their Hill Airport sponsor to the and guests had started to past achievements. Club News 51

observant members had noticed that the lobby floor tiling displayed a large device which bore an uncanny resemblance to the club badge (from 1878 to 2003) which seemed to make the Anniversary year President occasion more relevant to the Julian Golding surroundings. After a while the growing Finally, as the time needed to take into account number of invitees started approached, it was possible the magnificent splendour of making their way up the to move down to the dining the decor, brilliant red flock stairs of the Hall and room suite and members and wallpaper, the proliferation of down the corridors to guests were shown in and, paintings, and an altogether the octagonal hub of the ascertaining their places in arcane but still splendid aura parliament buildings, the the seating plan provided, of pre-war grandeur of a long Central Lobby, past statues processed into the Strangers’ vanished age. of eminent parliamentarians, Dining Room and the lovely After a further wait as more and overlooked by carved adjoining Pugin Room for drinks were bought at the bar statuettes of monarchs from the drinks reception. This and then we were summoned past centuries of British entitled everyone to a free to dinner just after 7.15 history. Here there was a drink (prosecco, beer or a to make our way into the further wait as more guests soft drink) and access to a dining room which was turned up and conversations makeshift bar for any further( ensued whilst the dining if rather pricy) drinks. At facilities set aside for the this point perhaps in order event were being made to appreciate the value of the available. Some of the more occasion against its price, one

impressively adorned with beautiful flock wallpaper, wooden relief sculptures and plenteous portraits of parliamentarians down the ages. High painted ceilings, huge windows that look out over the Commons Terrace after the dinner…. Drinks at the St Stephen’s tavern to reflect on the evening and carved oak panelled and perform the club cry walls give these dining rooms 52

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salmon, main course of baked corn fed chicken with some vegetables and potatoes and a combination dessert of sponge, meringue and ice cream entitled Lemon baked Past President Paul Byfield proposing alaska. Variously described by a toast to his successor Julian Golding some as bland and anodyne it looked small on the plate a sense of grandeur and tables (two of them round) but proved to be surprisingly political intrigue unlike any and arranged along the full filling. other location. length of the dining area. Coffee and petit fours The tables had been laid out Everyone quickly made followed and by 8.45pm the in the manner of top class their way to their designated noise of diners was dinned restaurants with the usual table and, grace having been for the customary toasts pristine white tablecloths and pronounced in the simplest napkins but not too many fashion with no reference to to the Queen and senior as pieces of cutlery as there the club’s athletic activities, well as junior members of were only three courses at the dinner commenced. the Royal Family, made with glasses of Quinta de la Rosa this meal. A top table along What followed was perhaps vintage port which was at this most of the Thames-side was a matter of how one felt time still being hastily being designated the President’s about what constituted distributed by the enthusiastic table as it is in most club a good meal. Wine was but overworked waiting staff. dinners, and surrounding provided with the meal, one If wine was something they it were thirteen smaller bottle of red and of white discerningly served, then for each table but further wine such as Colombard Sauignon Blanc and House of Commons Merlot could be ordered for the price of £26 per bottle, which needless to say did not deter some people. The food was of modest portions consisting The main course of a starter of treacle glazed Club News 53

Another past president, Mike Mahoney and his first lady sense of community through water was doled out liberally. the many bonds of friendship However It would have been within its membership. highly disrespectful to toast In politics and athletics we the Queen with just water. could equally have tribalism There followed a brief or community. Hopefully the interval before the speeches new clubhouse would foster commenced with four main a sense of unity and he paid speakers representing the tribute to those grandees of House, the Club, the Guests the club who were setting and the President. Although aside their differences to forgetting to propose Colonel embrace this hopeful future. Colonel Bob Stewart, Mike McFarlane Bob Stewart PP (1992-3) Alan and President Julian Golding He then turned to Bob Pickering’s dry wit provided Stewart with whom he had the perfect warm up act. In having the capacity to unite worked in Bosnia in the early the seat of parliamentary and also divide. He remarked 1990s when the Colonel had government, he made an that the club was part of a been Commander of the appropriate remark about wider community and that as UN forces there (Operation politics and athletics as both a club we were promoting that Grapple) except he joked

Past President Alan Pickering Grace having been pronounced in the simplest fashion proposing Colonel Bob Stewart 54

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conversation in the Strangers’ Dining Room Colonel Bob Stewart MP “I still have a job, but you Bob with no name had I am proud that Blackheath don’t!” referring to the promised not to make a harriers is in the constituency fact that with parliament speech, and what he had to which I’ve represented and dissolved for the forthcoming say was brief. He mentioned hope to do so again after General Election, the that he had some links to the December the 12th.” club through his 16 year old Colonel was now attending Next to speak was Professor son who trained sometimes Myra Nimmo, the Chair of as a private individual and at Norman Park and was England Athletics, herself an with restrictions placed hoping to get into the Royal International athlete in the on his proceedings he was Marines or the Army. He 1970s who gave an interesting introduced as ‘Bob with no expressed. He added that insight into athletic history name’! “you are terribly special and referring to the foundation in 1866 of the Amateur Athletics Club which opened up athletics to those from lower social classes and allowed them to participate in athletics. This progressiveness and inclusiveness she said was embedded in the club’s mission statement. How had we lasted 150 years? she asked; by inclusiveness in all our activities from International competition to the mob matches and in Club News 55

Tommo and partner institutions such as the Bees 1500 meters), and after not disqualifying a single Academy. Every person she the inclusion of women in Blackheath Harrier this last added should take pride in 1992, the achievements of summer! the club’s success, as one of Dina Asher-Smith, Holly The club had produced world the largest and oldest athletic Arnold, Helen Godsell, class performers on the clubs in the country. She (“we have three women track and what they did at then proposed the toast to world champions”) as well the World Championships in Blackheath and Bromley as having world class officer Doha in terms of what was Harriers AC. (such as John Baldwin) world achieved by their country was class coaches (such as John Paul Austridge (momentarily akin to ‘West Ham winning Blackie) and officials such the World Cup for England elevated to the status of a as Mark Purser who has in 1966’. With Blackheath Past President!) responded recently represented the club Harriers having been founder and mentioned some notable in Stockholm in the capacity members of the British names in the club’s history of a starter and the Diamond Athletic League in 1969, the including the performances League in Birmingham as Young Athletes winning of Olympian H.B Stallard Chief Starter, and whose the National League nine in 1924 (bronze in the greatest achievement was times in a row in the 1980s,

Jo Clare in the Strangers dining room 56

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and the promise shown by the present generation of international athletes, the club had, concluded Paul “a Long and celebrated past, a hugely successful present and a bright and exciting future”. PP (2016-17) Bill Foster now rose to propose a toast to the various guests attending from sponsors, supporters and the other rival clubs and of which Mike MacFarlane was one and who responded on behalf of the guests. He did this by giving a stirring talk about the concept of success in which he stated that people’s perception of success is all graded differently,and is not about record times or medals but about the influence they have and the foundation they have laid. He remembered 1982 when he won the Commonwealth Games 200 meters gold and with some amusement Some Wednesday Nighters in evening attire referred to it as the medal Club News 57

he won (having supposedly IPP (2018-19) Paul Byfield only shared the victory with now proposed a toast to Alan Wells) but recalled his successor the present the disappointment of the President Julian Golding, 1983 World Championships likening this task to being the (‘those who can’t hear must best man at a wedding. He feel”) and his promise that talked of what Julian brought he would make good this to the role of president and his capacity to speak at key setback by reaching the final events such as a talk he of the Olympic 200 meters in gave to the Young Athletes 1984. With intense training League where he drew on he did that and finished an his own success as an athlete impressive fifth. He also and asked the young people When the President spoke in cherished tomes to visualise that success. He responded he gave a short about Julian Golding and how ended by recalling a story reminiscence of the time he had coached and nurtured where Julian had raced against when he was asked by Paul to him and other famous Michael Johnson and beat be the club president. After athletes from that era who him- by crossing the start-line having said no initially, he he’d watched mature before Michael Johnson! had discussed the matter with his wife and decided that he was ‘going to do this’ after all. He praised Blackheath Harriers as being a great club and would encourage young people to join Blackheath Harriers particularly as it had the best youth policy of any club in the country. He praised everyone who played a pivotal role and thanked Mike MacFarlane who had encouraged him to achieve much from relatively unpromising 58

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beginnings. Because of him he was a qualified teacher and he owed so much to the Commonwealth Champion. Athletics he said ‘gives you the building blocks for success’. He likened the club More scenes from the Strangers’ Dining Room (more photo opps!) to a family and he encouraged commemorative glass. PP by their respective proposers. all in the club to do what they Paul Byfield presented a gold The speeches finally ended could to make young people brooch to Samantha Golding at about 5 to 10, which left become great members of his in recognition of the support enough time in the allocated society. she has given and continues window for members and During the course of the to give to the president. guests to mingle and make speeches each of Colonel If there was any wine or water a final effort to talk and Stewart, Professor Nimmo or other drinks left, then socialise. There was still wine and Michael Macfarlane were toasts were drunk to each left to drink and people to presented with an engraved speaker as they were named talk to. After the speeches there was still wine left to drink and time to socialize but the host started to drift away as ten thirty approached. However, for some the evening was not over and a crowd of revelers was slowly gathering for further refreshments. The moving spirit behind this was club chairman Nick Corry whose verbal contributions during the evening had provided a high class form of heckling. Now like some Texas rancher he was herding willing or not so willing souls for a post dinner drink at the St Stephen’s Tavern nearby. A fair number did follow on to that pub and in fact packed the place out to reflect on the evening and, to Members and guests at the dining tables the amazement of the other Club News 59

Alan Pickering in his speech, which actually recalled his mission statement given by him upon being appointed president in 1992, mentioned the importance of the club drinkers in the tavern, gave a experienced rejuvenations in the community, looking spirited rendition of the club as it did in the 1920s when beyond itself to outsiders, not cry conducted by who else Secretary H.J Dyball cliquish or secretive, but able but Nick Corry! What the transformed it from its to move beyond the narrow onlookers thought of a crowd Victorian character to being confines of the fitness culture of dinner jacketed revelers more inclusive of younger to embrace all walks of life, is anyone’s guess. Even after elements, and also in the even to the seat of power….to time was called a hard core 1980s as the running boom the House of Commons itself. of heathern staggered across attracted aspiring marathon Westminster Bridge in search runners into the club’s ranks. Wilf Orton of further refreshment with a few hardy souls staging a sortie on a nearby hotel. But by 12.30am the celebrations had petered out. The evening had presented the club in its most attractive image but although the most recent two presidents, Julian Golding and PP Paul Byfield and the main guest speaker Mike McFarlane are from an ethnic minority racial background, there were few other ethnic guests present at the dinner, and concern was expressed by some about a lack of representation of minorities, in what still appears to be a white middle class dominated club. But to answer that positively, Blackheath and Bromley is a community club, which has often embraced new ways 60 Dina Re-opens Refurbished Track at Norman Park 13th November 2019 However what with the of Works for refurbishment The Norman Park track onward progress of track would therefore need to was opened in the summer construction and the changing consist primarily of removing of 1981 as just a 6-lane all requirements of UK Athletics and laying new polymeric weather track with 8 lanes and IAAF, any further sandwich system in all areas in the home straight and over improvements had to comply of standard 400m track. the last 40 years has seen with current BSEN913.2008, Here would also be some many improvements such as CDM 2015 regulations, to additional works including the original synthetic track say nothing of the growing the application of a new being upgraded and resurfaced forum of opinion in favour of structural spray to the events in order to bring it up to UK a move of club headquarters areas and making adaptations Athletics standards. to Norman Park,so there to the throw cage to meet all Further developments saw the would always be a need for the new UKA requirements. addition of two further lanes track to meet these changing The works must be undertaken added in 2006. Then in 2010 requirements in anticipation there was further improvement by a specialist firm who are of the venue being ever more member of SAPCA, who are with an additional javelin used for the growing athletic runway, whilst the long/ classified as track builder activities of the wider club. In triple jump facilities now members under their scheme. a contract award notice issued had run-ways at both ends. It would mean of course the by the London Borough of These improvements were closure of the track premises Bromley in June 2019 it was spearheaded by Norman for several weeks during the stated that Park track Management with summer track season of 2019, significant financial support “The Council is seeking to and a halt to the Leaders Mile from London Marathon undertake the replacement of competition. Trust and sterling work from specialist running track and field Work finally commenced in individuals such as PP Alan surfaces using polymeric sandwich August 2019 and took place Brent and track manager Ken surfaces system and to carry out over a two month period in Daniel. specialist remedial repairs to several phases. The work bespoke track and field surfaces progressed steadily despite including structural spraying. some wet weather in the first Before this year the most All works undertaken must week, after which there were significant modernization comply with UKA and IAAF a couple of weeks of dry had taken place in 2010 with requirements and relevant codes weather until into September improved field facilities and of practice” when the conditions started to drew much praise from UK deteriorate. Athletics assessors Dave On completion of works on Holder and Keith Bundock site the specialist SAPCA The laying of the black who awarded the track a approved contractor must underlay was completed on class 1A UK grading and obtain Full UKA Track-Man 21st September after which pronounced the track superior certification from UKA. the spraying began with two to many in the country as a and Health and Safety at coats applied by the 7th of whole. Work Act 1974. The Scope October. Then bad weather Club News 61

with heavy rain prevented the spraying of a third coat causing further delay whilst the team waited for the track to dry. Finally the top coat was applied and by 22nd October that phase of the refurbishment had been completed. Premier Line Markings now arrived and spent the Dina Asher-Smith cuts the ceremonial ribbon to celebrate the re-opening of the track next week line marking and BEES Academy, who had all played a significant role in her painting in the white lane gathered to congratulate her success. It was great that we could lines. There was more delay on her success in the World celebrate these successes, and the due to persistent wet weather Championships and to see her Club’s 150th Anniversary, with but by October 30th the task officially re-open the track the reopening of the track by was close to completion. By after its recent refurbishment. Dina, surrounded by so many of the following month the track Dina was very surprised our members, young and old.” was ready for re-opening. to see such a magnificent Outgoing Chair of Norman A simple ceremony took turnout. place on the 13th November. Park Track Management, After navigating her way Chris Hilditch, commented New World 200m Champion, down the home straight “The reopening of the newly Dina Asher-Smith, was through the crowd to the re-furbished track this evening welcomed back to her home finish line and following marked completion of the first track at Bromley’s Norman a brief official welcome stage of the Club’s plans to secure Park yesterday evening, from the Club President, a sustainable future for the track. following her multi-medal Julian Golding, and Club winning performances at the Chairman Nick Corry and We look forward to asking Dina recently held World Athletics to much applause, Dina cut to open a new community sports Championships in Doha. the ceremonial ribbon to and recreation centre here in the months to come.” Dina, who has just returned celebrate the completion of to training after a well- the refurbishment of the It also means that the club deserved end-of-season track. She then joined her can now resume its 150 break, arrived at the track training group to continue her Leaderboard Mile race series for a session with her coach, preparations for next year’s aiming to have 150 different John Blackie and the rest Olympic Games in Tokyo. club members each run a mile of his training group, to be Club President, Julian over the course of the season greeted by a large crowd of Golding said: “The Club is with already over 125 having her fellow Blackheath & tremendously proud of Dina’s taken part. Bromley Club members, as achievements and of the role her well as youngsters from the coach, John Blackie, who has Nick Brooks.(ed Wilf Orton) 62 The Club AGM 24th March 2019 Passing of resolutions for the proposed Development of Norman Park Community Sports Facility

A meeting having been zero rated but HMRC might at a current cost of £600,000 held by the Directors on require some of the building and building maintenance Thursday 15 March 2018 costs to be VATable costs, over the same period, at which the architect and The company was also of £250,000. An annual building contractor had considering raising some surplus of £70,000 leaves a presented the plans for the funds from members by way significant margin compared development of the Norman of debentures along similar with those costs and even Park proposal, for club lines to the debentures if the surplus were to be members to discuss those issued in the 1970s when no more than £35,000 plans, several resolutions the original 1920s club that would still provide were presented at the club house was extended. David the necessary funds for AGM on the 24th March. Appleton speaking on track renewal and building If such Resolutions were the business plan said the maintenance costs. approved the plans would be major costs were going to These resolutions were then presented to the Council the be around £3,100,000 of discussed from the floor. following week and it was which the build costs would There was now greater hoped that approval of these be about £2,400,000. To support for the Resolutions would be forthcoming by meet the overall costs there and the move but there July when an order would be was an agreement for the should be provision for placed for the steel required contractor to buy the Bourne a community sports and for the building which will Way site for £2 million. To recreation facility at Norman be acquired by the company. make up the total there are Park. Most of the questions It would then be necessary cash reserves in the club of were met with answers to enter into an agreement to about £150,000 and funds relating to the resolutions: sell the club house to release in the Jack Sims Trust which the funds to acquire the steel were £350,000 but are now Denis Lawrie asked about and begin the construction somewhat less in the light the staffing arrangements at work. of recent falls in the Stock the new facility at Norman Park and was told that It was anticipated that Exchange. The company the club would use some building work at Norman has also got the offer of a volunteers if that proved Park will begin in August £250,000 loan facility from possible but had budgeted with completion in Spring the Charity Bank. for a number of full time 2019. The fit out will be The Business Plan has been employees. As in resolution a major operation and all put to Bromley Council C, this would be covered by members of the club were and independently verified the ability to employ staff on encouraged to offer their by them and approved. A the premises help in terms of time and pessimistic assessment of the expertise. the company had annual surplus is £70,000 Chris Haines asked about the applied to HM Revenue & and over a 25 years cycle the confidence of the Director/ Customs (HMRC) for the company will have to provide Trustees that the contractor construction work to be for the renewal of the track would honour his word and Club News 63

pay the promised £2 million as security for such loans. proposals and the move to for the Bourne Way site. There would be no potential Norman Park. It was noted that we had liability for members of club Ian Young introduced spoken with a number of members. Resolution 6.1 and said that it the very substantial sporting Chris Haines asked about had been put forward to make organisations which the plans for encouraging cross it absolutely clear that a major contractor had worked with country running and the disposal of property required in the past and with some arrangements for that section to be approved by way of of which the contractor had when the club moved to special resolution of the continuing relations. That Norman Park. The club members in general meeting. was a very clear indication of has had meetings with the The advice from the company his bona fides and if he let manager at the Warren who lawyers, Muckle, was that the down Blackheath Harriers is very keen to accommodate terms of the existing Articles he would suffer considerable the club for its fixtures at have exactly the same effect damage to his, currently, no direct cost and the Old but the Director/Trustees very high reputation. Beccehamians, at Spring wanted the wording to be Roger Beswick raised the Park, will allow their facility absolutely clear on this point. possible threat of compulsory to be used on Wednesday Once the Directors were purchase by the Council evenings. satisfied that (i) adequate of the Norman Park site In support of the move Julie funding is available or as had happened to a local Asher-Smith noted that the committed to enable football club. In response it Directors/Trustees of whom completion of the project was noted that the company she is one were very excited in accordance with the would be granted a 125 year by the prospect of the future current budget (including lease by Bromley Council at development which will the designated contingency a peppercorn rent and we create a sustainable future amount and the amount would take legal advice to for the club and it needed of any VAT payable on ensure that the position of the enthusiasm and trust of the construction); and, (ii) the club was appropriately the club members as well planning permission has safeguarded against if this crucial development been granted for the new compulsory purchase or any was going to go ahead and facility.The matter was put other potential threat. achieve all its potential. Paul to the vote. The Resolution Derek Gregory asked what Patten, one of the Director/ was approved 107 in favour security would be required Trustees, said that he had and 7 against. This included by Charity Bank if it made consulted informally with 50 proxies in favour and 4 the company a loan. He was the young athletes, some of proxies against. Resolutions told that no security would whom he has helped to coach 6.2 A to 6.2F were then taken be required as the Charity over the past 17 years, and on a single vote with 109 in Bank was set up to make he has gathered signatures favour and 8 against. There loans to charities that did not from 97 of the young athletes were 49 proxies in favour and generally have assets to offer in favour of the current 5 against. 64 Club News 65 Norman Park Development Update 27th November 2019

The application provides for Marathon etc. We would We are delighted to inform the demolition of the existing welcome suggestions from you that our plans for a pavilion and construction members who have good redeveloped community of a part single and part two ideas on how we might close multi-sports facility at storey multi-sports centre the funding gap. Norman Park were approved within the Norman Park unanimously by Bromley Whilst we cannot provide Track site. The new building a detailed timetable at the Council Development would be situated in the Committee last night moment, it is anticipated that same location as the existing if all goes well with the GLA (Tuesday 26th November). pavilion. The application was well and funding, it is unlikely that supported by the Bees The proposed facilities construction will commence Academy, local athletic clubs, include changing rooms, before the end of the 2020 schools, Parkrun, England showers, an indoor multi- track and field season. Athletics, Sport England etc. sports hall, physio and first We will keep you updated as aid rooms, multi-function matters progress. rooms (for example various keep fit classes), together The Trustees. Blackheath & with a café/bar, kitchen Bromley Harriers AC and function areas. These facilities will support a wide variety of community usage as well as providing the club with new headquarters. Moving forward, the next hurdle is to gain approval from the Greater London Authority (GLA). This usually takes about 6 weeks. In the meantime updated building plans are being developed. These will be used to tender the construction contract. Based on the results of this tender we will be seeking additional funding, on top of the sale of Bourne Way and our reserves, in order to deliver all the facilities as approved. We will be turning to members as well as applying for funding from Sport England, London 66 Club News Letters to the editor

Wilf On reading your latest Gazette issues and particularly your account of the Burns Summer 2019 I must say Well done, In a hundred years time folk will look at the Gazettes and what went on in 2019 and they’ll say the best is... this bloke... Wilf Orton. Though not a great Scots lover We are lucky... we.have nine grand-daughters. One of them in Scotland shares a birthday with ‘Rabbae’ Burns. I read your piece on obituaries and noted the names of departed heathern in it. I knew Paul Betts... smashing bloke. He was a teacher. “Mike” he once said.“have you done the Steeplechase before?” When I replied no he continued... “Paul... well this is what you do... accelerate into the barrier... and he demonstrated how to straddle it. I got over, but did not hurdle like Paul... I had to put one foot on the barrier. You expressed fine words for Tony (Bounds) and John (Britain). I.have good memories of walking the Seven Sisters with them. Quiet but genuine men with strong faiths. I played in the Club football team with Gordon (Hickey). Gordon was good at encouraging us on... you could hear him!! The world needs more people who are encouragers. Well Wilf, keep well and safe and keep in mind what Graham Greene said..”Writing is a form of therapy”; sometimes I wonder how all those who do not write, compose or paint can manage to escape the madness, the melancholia, the panic fear which is inherent in the human situation. Best wishes... Mike (Cronin)

Hi Wilf, I’m flattered that you would want to include my notes of my early experience of Blackheath in the “Gazette”. I may have explained that I wrote very fully as my Dad, Alf Stevens was not only a champion harrier and Captain of the New Zealand Team in Australia in 1935, but was a long time kiwi administrator as well as Wellington Province & Scottish Club. To answer your questions: Graeme was my brother – 4 years older, New Zealand Universities track champion; Cambridge University cross country & track blues. He was he who recommended I join Blackheath after competing at Hayes with the CU team. When he came down in 1960 he spent 6 months with me whilst he did research at the Geological Museum, also joined and ran with me at Blackheath and became a Life Member. “OE” was the term used by we Kiwis for our “Overseas Experience”. It was very common in the 1950s/60s to head off by sea to the UK, where we had right of entry. Certainly a springboard for much “experience”!! The OVC was the Overseas Visitors Club in Earls Court that became the home base for many “colonials” : NZ, AUS, SA, Rhodesia etc. I lived there between touring for the 3 years I was there, also latterly on the staff. It was huge in those days – became known as “Kangaroo Valley”! I told President Nic that when his weekly addresses from outside at Hayes were interrupted by the train rattling past, it brought back vivid memories. On Saturdays at Hayes I was often inveigled into staying late……..! At the sound of the incoming train passing, I had to down my beer, grab my gear bag and sprint around to the station to catch the last train back to Charing Cross. I could safely doze most of the way then catch the District line to Earls Court! Happy Days! Thank you for your Gazette, much appreciated and I look forward to the next publication. Regards to All, Alan (Stevens) Obituary 67 David Ralph Johnson 1930-2019

Johnson was more than just Artillery After basic training the sum of his various parts. he Specialised in signals and In a long and culturally rich communications. During a life he had various roles: period of 18 months service environmentalist, local he gained promotion to historian, runner, race official, Bombardier. author, artist, serviceman, As a pensioner he did his single father. GCSE’s and A’levels at In in a feature article Charles Darwin school. He “The true significance of then went to Ruskin College obituaries”(Summer Gazette Oxford to attain a history 2019) I wrote on how the diploma. lives of many club members He went into the civil service had positively spent. Had and worked his way up to an that piece been written just a Having first encountered Auditor for British Telecom. short time later it would have David Johnson at a He also did lots of work for included the life of David communion service at the pensioners organisation- Christchurch Beckenham, I Ralph Johnson born in the 7th trying to protect all of our little realised that I’d bump June 1930. Said his daughter futures. Helen Johnson “He did not into him again as a fellow Then it should be remembered Blackheath Harrier who had waste a day of his life as if the that he was a loyal and many personas. I came to gift of life were so precious committed member of his realise what kind of person he that every moment had to be club Blackheath Harriers really was and so eventually made to count”. He would of which he was a constant came to understand what kind have certainly been able to member of for many years of a life he would lead. satisfy most of the aspects stipulated in it. having joined the club in the That life came to an end in mid 1980s. Although not November 2019, and a few Firstly taking one of those recorded as a distinguished weeks later at a memorial aspects, he had the desire and front line runner he was a service at Christchurch ambition to rise above any keen participant taking part Beckenham on the 27th early limitations experienced in 24 hour runs and 50 mile November I joined a number in formative years. He went walks. He started running of Blackheath Harriers to to Alexandra infant school in marathons in his fifties and pay our respects on his Penge and on his performance completed 4 marathons all in passing and to hear what there he did get into Penge under 4 hours. He also helped family, friends and academic and Beckenham Grammar but organise and took part in a colleagues had to say about couldn’t go because his family waterpolo match between him. couldn’t afford the uniform blackheath harriers in 1988 vs amongst other impediments But my understanding of him Ranalagh Harriers at Crystal The war really disrupted his has been limited to meeting palace in the diving pool. education but he was a life him through church and BHH won. It was organised to club activities, so perhaps long learner. commemorate similar matches the family should have the In 1949 he commenced his held between Blackheath final word on his life. David National service in the Royal and other clubs at the end of 68

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19th Century He was a race Furthermore he was endowed As well as writing books he steward and marshal in club with a wide variety of also gave local history walking events such as the Ted Pepper qualities, virtues and abilities. tours for Embro- mainly at 10km and often attended His son Richard remarked Elmers End Cemetery and social events such punch bowl that as a father. “Dad never in Penge. He also gave talks Night and from its inaugural dictated to us, was never at local schools and often event in 2011 the Burns Night judgemental, or meted out returned to his primary school Supper. condemnation”. He was not to do these, including giving type caste or conventional and an assembly on the Great Also he was a devoted family avoided predictability, willing Exhibition at his grandson’s man even when his marriage to step out of the box. school. ran into difficulties in the Most particularly he was an As well as the written 1970s when his two children, medium he took interest in Helen and Richard were left all rounder, or multi faceted man. This was of course photography one and was also to his sole care. He would a member of the Beckenham displayed by his academic prove to be a real tower of photographic society. In this achievements especially later strength and an influence on group he produced in 2000 a in life. He was especially keen his children. David was always recording of the Millennium supportive of his family and on local history particularly taking photos all over the rich store of material in would strive to be as good Beckenham and was involved the Beckenham and Bromley a dad as he could be and be in placing photos on a CD area. He was a long standing loving as he was loved not rom. member of the Beckenham only as a dad but as a grand Historical Associations and The interest in photography father, and father in law. As the Bromley and Beckenham went hand in hand with a daughter Helen remarked in Local History Society. passion for painting He had the aftermath of his passing a passion for art and history “We think of him everyday, As an acknowledged local and did talks at schools in and he is deeply missed. Historian and author David the borough of Bromley His wrote 4 local books on the evaluation of history was “to local history of Beckenham, learn from the past and use Penge and Crystal Palace. it for the future” Because of These were, ‘Bromley, a his love in history his son was century’. (1999), ‘Bromley past influenced to choose a career and present. (2001), ‘Around as a history teacher. Crystal Palace and Penge’ He was also keenly involved (2004) and ‘Beckenham in the Scouting movement through time’ (2014). Each participating in its activities were a mine of historical and going on camping trips information, amply illustrated and in 1959 whilst attending by old photos and facsimiles a scout leaders training camp of drawings. Over the years he and got to know a Major in developed into a well known the Finnish Army. As a result author and key contributor to of this he went to Finland David as artillery bombardier publications. and went on ski patrols in the Obituary 69

arctic. This was one example of how he travelled extensively including the USSR before the fall of communism and the Rockies where he had close encounters with grizzly bears. To family and friends he was described as the ‘Original back packer.’ On a wider level he once appeared on television in the quiz show15 to 1 at Pebble- Mill and finished second. At one talking about being a single Dad Finally he expressed strong commitments to his beliefs and values. He was very progressive politically and became identified with the environmental lobby. He did sometimes drive but cycled In his fifties David completed four marathons constantly even in his more advanced years. the visually impaired ), office in an administrative As sn artillery bombardier particularly for a man on capacity but his own he even punished squaddies Hayes Hill Road. contribution to the spirit of the club, helping to sustain its for stoning squirrels on the For many years he was multi-faceted nature cannot grounds of cruelty to animals! a regular attender at be underestimated. He made the most of what Christchurch Beckenham, he had and had a lifelong usually for the early morning David died on the 2nd of devotion to the healthy life; Communion Service, and was November 2019. At his He also swam his whole in the guise of a Black heath service of thanksgiving his life, an activity he would do Harrier he attended functions daughter in paying her tribute whenever and wherever he organised by Christians In to him commented that “I’m could. He even swam at Cape Sport. Said Rev Bob Hilton not surprised that it was his Agulhas, the tip of Africa, in (CC Beckenham) of him “he heart which wore out in the end- he had used it so much the freezing winter with a “ was one of few who left a to love the life he was given danger- Sharks” sign near by lasting memorial”…. “.…His final remark was “It and he did learn how to scuba From a club point of view is how we love that we are drive at one stage. he may not have won prizes remembered”. His concern for the for running, become a vice handicapped lead him to president, manged an age Richard Johnson, Helen Johnson also do aided running for category team, or held any ed. Wilf Orton 70 Joseph Anthony Clare 9 October 1939 – 28 January 2020 Ave atque vale On Sunday 27th September technician and served on 1970, Joe Clare spent 5 hours HMS Ark Royal where he 41 minutes and 8 seconds on had responsibilities for Fairey the Brighton Road winning Gannetts and Blackburn the London to Brighton Buccaneers; the captain is road race by 14 minutes. The said to have altered course following year he ran faster, and speed to help with Joe’s 5:39:55 but troubled by blisters training runs on the flight he finished in 5th place. Joe deck when at sea. joined previous club winners Joe was a quiet and Joe Clare finishing at Chiswick in the Lewis Piper (1951) and Derek unassuming man but 1970 Poly marathon Reynolds (1952) with his 1970 determined in his athletic performance, deservedly endeavour, a distinguished Open and Southern team earning his Honours Award and dependable member of races. He featured in the 1971 noted on the board at Hayes. our cross country and road Maxol marathon with 2:24:31, Joe was one of several Royal teams for many years, in the with Blackheath second in the Navy members who were the scoring six for Southern and team race. 1970 and 1971were mainstay of club senior teams National Championships, blue riband years for Joe not at that time, others included helping the team to three just for the performances decathlete Trevor Wahlen and third places in the Southern already mentioned but he also middle distance man Peter between 1970 and 1977. A twice won the Isle of Wight Horwood. Joe was educated at notable marathon runner, Joe marathon, an extremely tough Colfe’s in Lewisham leaving won the RN championship course run on hot summer’s to join the Royal Navy at the with 2:23:39 in the 1970 days, his winning times inside age of 16, serving for 22 years Polytechnic marathon, the grade one standards on and rising to the rank of Chief second home for the club each occasion. Petty Officer in the Fleet Air and simultaneously helping As a Blackheath Harrier, Arm. He was an electronics Blackheath to victory in the Joe ran 16 marathons, the fastest in the 1970 Poly and the slowest at Huntingdon in 1981, 2:50:53. However, before joining he ran in the 1968 Inverness to Forres marathon, winning the race and recording 2:18:43 running in a pair of RN issue plimsolls. Although he is ranked 14th on the Blackheath all-time list, his Inverness to Forres would place him 7th, just behind Bob Richardson. Amongst all these Joe Clare (right) at the 150th Anniversary Dinner at the House of Commons in performances, Joe featured in 2019 with Trevor Walhen and Chris Haines the full range of road races, Obituary Obituary 71 Derek Hogg 1928-2020

relays, cross country including Derek Frank Ernest Hogg down and was instead posted mob matches and with the was born on 28th March 1928 to Northern Ireland. He was occasional track run in trophy in south west London Born attached to the Education matches and in the National in Balham south London. His Corps overseeing the demob league. On one such occasion early life was spent in south of soldiers returning home to paired with Chris Woodcock west London close to Balham Ulster. Called up under the for the 5000m in the 1971 and Tooting Bec. emergency period following Ryder Trophy the two had WW2 and served with the He was educated at the newly a narrow escape when a Army Education Corps, with established then flagship javelin landed on the track postings in England, Wales, Bec Grammar school Where between them. Joe was also Scotland & Northern Ireland a dependable member and he was House Captain & well-organised member of the Head Boy where he achieved On his own demobilisation 24 hour relay teams of 1973 respectable marks across the he joined the Civil Service and 1974. board, but particularly enjoyed (having sat the Entrance and excelled in Art & English. Exam at his father’s advice), in Joe represented the Royal Whilst he was Evacuated the Department of Health and Navy with distinction and ran during World War to Lewes Social Security - or Stealth and for Hampshire in the Inter- he even earned money with Total Obscurity as he always Counties. In later years he his art master painting pub referred to it. He was based took a full part in masters and signs around the town.. at several offices in London, veterans events an invaluable but spent the most time at member of the teams that Here he developed his love Alexander Fleming House at included Ian Wilson, Chris of Sussex which had been the Elephant and Castle. He Woodcock and Les Roberts. kindled by many childhood had a successful career – rising He was often supported by family holidays at Pagham. to Assistant Secretary. In a his father who accompanied Whilst evacuated (as he career lasting nearly 35 years the team for the Le Quesnoy recalled) one Saturday marathon in 1980 as Chef amongst various key roles morning the children d’Equipe de Cadre Noir, his responsibilities included: (including him) leaving the Grande Bretagne’. Drafting early food and drugs cinema were strafed by a legislation, preparing the legal On 28th February 2020, as German ME109 flying low up base to successfully challenge the pandemic was taking hold, the river Ouse. It missed – a drug company supply costs to there was a celebration of Joe’s near death experience in war the NHS, being Part of the life at Garston, Herts. The evoking shades of Fergus team advising on food and club was represented by PP Ancorn. drug aspects in preparation to John Baldwin and PP Chris join the European Common Haines and in remembering At the age of 18, on leaving school, rather than go to Market in 1973 and being the our friend in athletics they Civil Service manager for were able to offer sympathy university, he was conscripted the secure mental hospitals and condolences to his son into the Army and was (Broadmoor etc). Anthony and to Rosalind. trained in readiness to go to the far east, where hostilities Towards the end of his Chris Haines, John Baldwin, were still incomplete. But time at school he became Chris Woodcock with final peace he was stood more interested in running, 72

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particularly the mile and cross match against the USA at the Three surviving children country. He was introduced White City. two sons and a daughter were born to them between to Blackheath Harriers in Derek was both a cross- 1954 and 1963, although they 1946 when he was just about country runner and a “miler” had to endure the tragedy to turn 18 by Rev Alan - representing the club for of the still birth of another Daniels who was (if it is not a a number of years until he son Nicholas an apparently contradiction in terms) - both suffered a bad knee injury healthy boy. Such experience a “Heathen” and the vicar at in the late 1950s jumping a proved to be a great grief. Holy Trinity. fence/style and had to give up He joined Blackheath Harriers competing. However he still In 1974 they separated and on 4th February 1946. ran over the country (helping Derek moved to Hendon Through Sydney Wooderson out with the juniors), Central but In 1979 he married who he often ran with and Shirley, a work colleague, PP Ian Wilson recalled a marriage which proved a against and his brother “I remember you used to happy one and lasted 37 years Stanley who was coaching him check the laces on the BH until her death in 2016. during the war, he was talent team member’s shoes before spotted, whist practising at the the start. ” It was Derek In his later career, he was cinder track on Tooting Bec Hogg who lead the group in increasingly aware that The common he was encouraged true, traditional Blackheath Civil Service was changing, to join the club shortly after “pack running” tradition. becoming more politicised peace broke out. With many Now, I would not call what and this frustrated him since members away on war service Derek did coaching but he believed that his job was he rapidly moved from the he did introduce us to the supposed to be serving the junior to the senior team and enjoyment of endurance public by giving impartial he won his first trophy within running and provided great advice to whichever party was in power. He took a week of joining He was encouragement”. early retirement from the winner of the King Morrison He was club secretary for Civil Service to move to Cup in 1946 and 1947. some six years in the late ‘50s California in 1982 to see what As well as competing for and early ‘60s and became a opportunities were there. Blackheath Harriers he was club vice president in 1964. Alongside building a house as a Civil Servant, a member He would become one of the in virgin woodland near of the Service Athletics club. club’s oldest surviving club Santa Rosa, he worked in the Some highlights of his athletic vice-presidents He was the forestry and wine-making career included being actually second longest serving VP for industries. 56 years!!! present Iffley Road during the He returned to England afternoon of 6th May 1954 Whilst stationed in Northern in 1986, partly because he when Roger Bannister broke Ireland he met Margaret, a was disenchanted with the the four minute mile. He was civilian instructress in the narrow mindedness of many one of Britain’s top milers Army Education Centre at Americans, and he said of his day, recording a pb of Firmount. They married in because he wanted to see 4 minutes 10 seconds and 1950 and settled in London more of his children and, by represented Great Britain in a Michael to start a family. now, grandchildren. He and Obituary 73

his second wife Shirley chose in Sussex and beyond – to settle in Sussex. Where becoming Provincial Grand they took much pleasure in Knight for Sussex. After this spending some time with his he became Member Services seven grandchildren. Secretary of the International Although retired from his Alliance of Catholic Knights main career he initially found assisting with the creation of work as an administration the Knights of St. Gabriel for officer with Sussex Police Foreign Embassy staffs and and then went on to work the Knights of Thomas More as a legal executive with in Belgium. In this work, also Rapers, a firm of solicitors in became closely involved with Chichester. becoming legally many Catholic clergy and laity qualified at an age when many – including Cormack Murphy are about to retire. O’Connor. Having been raised, as an He died on 19th March 2020. Anglican.he converted Of him PP Ian Wilson said to Catholicism whilst in of hearing of his death “made California. He also became me realise what a debt I owe deeply involved in the Knights Blackheath and how fortunate of St Columbus – rising to I was to join them in the first be one of 30 State Deputies place…”. who together managed the So a full and rich 90 years Knights throughout the State – with many significant of California. achievements – and still with Throughout his life he had the energy, enthusiasm, ability a strong work ethic and a and time for more! very strong Christian belief, Finally in the words of his and part of that ethic/belief son “Dad had a marked was that if you had god combination of physical and given gifts it was your god mental strengths & talents” – given duty to use those gifts which he continued to apply to help others - whether to the end of his full and rich they realised they needed it life. or not! His particular gifts were: Organising others & Robin Hogg Giving advice. He continued to practice these ethics for the rest of his life and on returning to England in 1986 he became deeply involved with the Catholic Church and Knights of St Columba 74 Officials Page

Executive Committee 2019/20 Past Presidents President: Existing Past Presidents of Blackheath Harriers AC: Julian Golding John R Baldwin (1975/76), Colin M Brand (1978/79), Brian G Stone (1979/80), Immediate Past President: Ian C Wilson (1981/82), Derek L Gregory (1986/87), Alan M Pickering (1992/93), Paul Byfield PP Steve H Cluney (1993/94), David White (1994/96), Mike Martineau (1996/97) Chairman of Committee: Mike J Mahoney (1997/98), Chris R Haines (1998/99), Richard J Coles (1999/2000), Nick Corry VP Mike Davies (2000/01), Mike Peel (2001/02), Pat Calnan (2002/03). Hon Secretary: Existing Past Presidents of Bromley AC: (to 2003) Vacant Daphne Reed, Joyce Hepher, Junior Field, Paul Jearum, Maureen Miller. Hon Treasurer: Past Presidents of Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC: David Appleton VP John Robinson (2003/04), Margaret Baldwin (2004/05), Anne Cilia (2005/06), Chairmen of Active Athletics: Ken Daniel (2006/07), Les Roberts (2007/08), Tim Soutar (2008/09), Summer – Tim Soutar PP Alison Brand (2009/10), Richard Coe (2010/11), Denis Lawrie (2011/12), Winter – Robert Cliff PP Steve Hollingdale (2012/13), Robert Cliff (2013/14), Dick Griffin (2014/15), Chair of Finance: David Cordell (2015/16), Bill Foster (2016/17), Nick Brooks (2017/18), Stephen Hollingdale PP Paul Byfield (2018/19). Chair of Communications: Vice Presidents Tim Ayres VP Existing Vice Presidents of Blackheath Harriers AC: Three Ordinary Members: George H Smith (1960), John E Lindblom (1962), Derek F E Hogg (1964), Adrian Stocks VP Tony V Hayday (1968), Richard J Edmonds (1969), Robert Richardson (1969), Paul Austridge VP John Lissaman (1972), Barry M Shapcott (1973), Geoff R Last (1974), Maz Turner VP Frank C Rogers (1976), Frank J Dyter (1977), Jerry C W Friend (1977), Chair of Development: Andy W Frankish (1979), Peter E Shepheard (1979), Peter C Hannell (1980), Paul Byfield Mike A Winch (1981), Ian K Young (1982), Gordon Brooks (1986), Sponsorship/Fund Raising: Simon Parsons (1990), Jim Phelan (1990), Nigel Keogh (1991), Vacant Trevor Llewelyn (1991), Mark I L Watling (1993), Steve J Freemantle (1995), House and Social: R Colin Poole (1995), Alan R Stevens (1995), Nick Nuttall (1997), David Cordell PP John E Turner (1997), Peter Lester (1998), Garry F P Spencer (1998), Bill Clapham (1999-2013), Mike J Cronin (1999), David Liston (2000), Membership Secretary: Roger A Michell (2000), Roger Counter (2002), Len Dalmon (2002), Rob Brown VP Roy Smith (2002). Track & Field Secretary: Vacant Existing Vice President of Bromley AC: David Green. Cross Country Secretary: Vice Presidents of Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC: Vacant John Blackie (2003 ex BAC), Willem Buttinger (2003 ex BH), Ian Dibbens (2003 ex BAC), Hilary Gibbs (2003 ex BAC), David Taylor (2003 ex BH), Simon Tolson (2003 ex BH), Myrtle Augee (2004), Helen Godsell (2004), Editor: Simon Lloyd (2004), Anthony Pontifex (2004), Brian Power (2004), Nick Gasson Wilf Orton – 020 8771 1128 [email protected] (2005), Brendan McShane (2005), Brian Hartley (2006), Paul Patten (2006), Kate Pratten (2006), Michael Skinner (2006), Ray Gibson (2007), Richard Holt Assistant Editor: (2007), Mark Purser (2007), Rob Brown (2007), Bob Minting (2007), Costas Vacant Karageorghis (2008), Tom Phillips (2008), Terri Shotton (2008), Andy Tucker Layout and Production: (2009), Roy Watkins (2009), Allan Williams (2009), David Appleton (2010), Ozzie Adams – 07788 728708 Peter Lovell (2010), Steve Pairman (2010), Colin Rowe (2010), Paul Austridge [email protected] (2011), Con Griffin (2011), Deniz Mehmed (2011), Wilf Orton (2012), Mick Jones (2013), Mike Sheppard (2013), Dave McKinlay (2014), Alex Gibbins (2014), Club Headquarters Richard Hall (2014), Jane Bradshaw (2014), Julie Asher-Smith (2014), Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC Marion (Maz) Turner (2015), Sheila Griffin (2015), Jackie Montgomery (2015), The Sydney Wooderson Centre Adrian Stocks (2015), Tim Ayres (2015). Claire Austridge (2016), Shaunagh Brown 56 Bourne Way, Hayes (2016), Andy Rayner (2016), Steve Timmins (2016), Karen Desborough (2017), Bromley, Kent BR2 7EY Chris Hilditch (2017), Mark Steinle (2017), Nick Corry (2017), Clem Leon (2018), Jay Galley (2018) Nick Swatton (2019), Rod Harrington (2019). Photographs The editing team wish to express their thanks for all those who contributed articles and photographs for this issue. We have made every effort to correctly identify all the photographers but sometimes 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. Thanks for photographs to all who took them.