VETRUNNER www.actvac.com or www.webathletics.com.au Volume 23 Issue 9 — February, 2003

DRUG TAKING IN SPORT: GETTING THE FACTS

RIGHT

On the track. Ron Clarke with Kipochoge Keino lead the field in the 5000m at the 1968 Olympics. Although Clarke broke several world records he never had success at the Olympics. Story Page 7. NEW YORK - A PERSONAL JOURNEY “A first New York Marathon”. GEOFF BARKER (left) relates the experience of training for a major city marathon and what it was like in New York, both on the days just before the race and the immense joy of completing the event. At the prompting of a few people I would like to record my New York 'experience'. Being a late starter to athletics I had actually achieved what my main goal was to complete a marathon less than four hours. Over a few glasses of nice red wine one night I let it slip that a real challenge would be to run in an international marathon and do under four hours. Before I new it I had been dared, challenged, pushed, or cajoled, (I'm not sure which), into doing the New York Marathon. Having accepted the invitation to 'take it on' I became very enthusiastic, especially as I had been happy with my Canberra Marathon effort, and developed great ideas of 'doing really well'. I drew up my 16- (Continued on Page 4)

CHANGE OF VENUE FOR THE JANUARY HANDICAPS MARATHON RELAY The 2003 Sprint Marathon Relays The January handicaps that were reason for the change is due to a clash are on Sunday, February 9 at the Deek scheduled for the Molonglo Reach with the Triathlon Association's Recreation Area. The race commences course on January 26 have had to be booking for that area. The Thomas at 8am and runners should be there by changed. The January Handicap will course is over 6.3km and the Frylink 7.30am. Contact Jim White 62314168. now be run at Weston Park. The 4km and Waddell also 4km. Page 2 — February Vetrunner

MORE ACTION FROM THE WORLD GAMES IN MELBOURNE

Action from the Cross Country, the and the Weight Pentathlon. Clockwise from the top left, Alice Scott trying to find the way into the Melbourne Zoo where the race ended. Geoff Munro is certainly glad the end of the race is just around the corner. Cathy Montalto, left, was apparently a pretty sick lady during the 'half', but she battled on to finish. Your humble editor was also working hard at the Games, taking a break from six Shot Puts in a row, but still had the time for a smile. Ray Green, second from the left, along with his team mates as they got the silver medal in the weight pentathlon. Geoff Moore, left, feeling and looking good as he takes on the last lap of the Cross Country. Bryan Thomas takes on the second leg of the Cross Country. (Lost the original picture, a substitute used). Centre shot is Maria O'Reilly who also braved the bleak conditions at the Cross Country. February Vetrunner — Page 3 I returned to Canberra from a our training routines. Less is more. holiday overseas just in time to serve as That is, it’s good to leave a little bit Meet Director for the December 19 track FROM YOUR of energy in the tank by the end of and field night. We had an enjoyable each training session. night of competition, a visit from Santa PRESIDENT · In competition, it is often better to and his glamorous helpers and a great forego extra events or extra supper. A great way to finis h 2002. attempts, especially if we Like you, I was saddened to learn of That includes gradual static experience some warning pain Peter Waddell’s death, which occurred stretching, with each stretch held symptoms. for at least 20 seconds; when I was still in Singapore. Your Vice · Never neglect rest and recovery. I President Ray Green, who looked after · The experience of pain means that find that I cannot do two hard the President’s duties so ably in my our body is telling us to stop what training sessions on consecutive absence, arranged for a minute’s silence we are doing. We must listen to that days. Interspersed lighter sessions at the December 12 track meet. No one message and obey it; keep us mentally and physically has done more for Australian race · A disabling injury needs the expert fresh. walking than Peter. advice of a sports doctor and a · Regular sleeping patterns and good The Regal Race walkers have sports physiotherapist; food are essential if we want to do announced that the first annual Peter · Returning to training and quality training and perform well in Waddell Memorial Day will be held at competition too soon may lead to a competition. Lake Ginninderra on Sunday, February relapse and even longer periods of 2, 2003 at 8.30am from George’s Hall. A The above points summarise my inactivity; range of walking events for all ages and experience. Of course everyone is abilities will be conducted. Our Club · It is quite possible that we may different. I would strongly advise you to already commemorates Peter in the carry a weakness from a past seek the advice of the ACTVAC members Monthly Handicap Waddell Series, for serious injury for the rest of our who conduct regular training groups. which Peter donated the trophy. His athletics career. We must learn to Their contact details are included in memory will live on through this series. manage that. each Vetrunner. One of the things I have had to do, as · We should not be too ambitious in Have a great 2003! JOHN I grow older is be more careful to avoid injury in pursuing our sport. I have to COMPETITION ELIGIBILITY AND ACCESS TO confess that, as a younger vet, I experienced some quite serious injuries, COMPETITION AREA AT ACTVAC MEETINGS which, resulted in extended periods The Club's Constitution restricts membership and competition eligibility to away from athletics. persons 30 years of age and over. Overtraining or over -exertion in Financial members and person’s trialling at our events may compete after competition generally caused those injuries. We often feel that, because the paying the appropriate gate or competition fee. This covers them for insurance desire to do well in undiminished, the purposes. Temporary membership can be obtained for trial purposes. capacity of the body is likewise An exception is provided through a written arrangement between the ACT unimpaired. We think that we are still Race Walking Club and ACTVAC, which allows financial members of the Walking 21 years old and that we are Club (including juniors and adults under 30) to compete in walking events at invulnerable. Wrong! ACTVAC meetings. The Walking Club's insurance arrangements My experience, hard-learnt, has been cover them in these circumstances. as follows: Unless serving as an official, voluntary worker and coach, all other under 30s · A gradual build-up in training loads, are to remain outside the fence, i.e. off the competition field at all times. This from lower -volume/slower activity includes children and spectators, who are not covered by our insurance policy. to high-volume/ faster work is always best; Any group wishing to compete must apply to the Committee. ACTVAC COMMITTEE · Never omit a thorough warm-up before training and competition. ACT VETERANS ATHLETIC CLUB “Fitness through Fellowship” The Vetrunner is the official Newsletter of ACTVAC. Postal address: GPO Box 2356, Canberra, ACT 2601. Internet: actvac.com or webathletics.com.au Disclaimer: The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily the views of ACTVAC.

Patron: Jack Pennington. Walking Handicapper and Sub- Catering/Lost Property: Statistician: Quentin Anthony Committee. John Suiter (Track) 62959524, Kent 62863885. Email President: John Hunt 62419392 (h) Jayne Hardy 62271443 (h) and Lynn Williams (Monthly Hcps) [email protected] 62748035 (w) Email 62474127. [email protected] 0412262257 (m). Coaching and Throws Handicapper, Weight Pent: Training Sub-Committee. Course measurement: Trish Thomas 62963278 (h). Vice President: Ray Green Stuart J Reid 62942368 Email Terry Levings 62824190 (h). Uniform/badges sales: 62316712 (h). Membership Services [email protected] Run/Walking Equipment Officer: Ken Gowans Rosemary/Bob Parker 62882508 (h). Sub-Committee. Handicap Sub-Committee. 62881651 (h) 62656751 (w). Vetrunner Editor: Jim O’Donnell Sharon Gibbins 62513016. Email: [email protected] Secretary: Geoff Sims 62547284 (h) Email Membership Services Sub- 62910047 (h). Email sharon. [email protected] Athletic Committee. Dave Mackenzie Vetrunner distribution: [email protected] Events Sub-Committee 62885891 (h). Keith Johnson 62314891 (h) Email [email protected] Treasurer: Nev Madden. Mobile Roger Stewart 62882798 (h) Occupational Health and Safety 0413044899. 62838329 (w). Administration and Club Officer: Roy Jones 62510148 (h). Run/Walking Handicap Sub- Email [email protected] Structure Sub-Committee. Committee, Vetrunner team: Doug Relays, Cross Country: Assets register, Insurance. Fry 62886439 (h) Jim White 62314168 (h). Other Contacts: Email: [email protected] Committee: Athletic Events Sub-Committee: Neil Registrar: Mick Corlis 62963969 (h) Marquee: Clive Glover 61613068 (h). Bob Banens 62623405 (h) Boden 62414023 (h) 62014269 (w) 62750754 (w) 41415844902 (m). Athletic Events Sub- Email: [email protected] Email [email protected] First Aid Officers: Committee. Awards Sub-Committee, half Social Sub-Committee: Val 62928994 Vince Craig, John Ison, Allan Morris, Prue Bradford 62815636 (h) 62643810 marathon Archives: Bryan Thomas (h), Jenny 62925294 (h) or Monika Gai Webster, Michelle Glanville, (w). Email [email protected] Run/ 62963278 (h). 62958625 (h). Marlene Reid and Roy Jones. Page 4 — JuneFebruary Vetrunner Vetrunner NEW YORK MARATHON - ACT VETERANS ATHLETIC CLUB A PERSONAL JOURNEY Supported by week training schedule to begin on the was coming in that day. July 15, 2002 getting ready for the big A pain-killing needle and confusion day, November 3, 2002. as to what happened, the answer was Week one of my training program 'more physio'. My physio said I might started and on the second day I got this have to forget this marathon. When I strange pain in the front of my leg up said it was the New York one she high near the groin. It was not enough immediately said, "Oh that's different to stop me but it did worry me so I eased you can't forget that one! just forget up and only did 40km that first week about going for your PB though". After thinking it would be wise not to push it. the day on crutches I was able to walk On the second week no improvement again. and I could only manage 14km, not good The Vets Half Marathon came and I for marathon training I thought. reluctantly decided I should not run. I Having decided that rest was not was half way through my training working I went to my physio who program and could not run. I was seemed to think that I had just starting to get worried. Fortunately I 'tightened up' and a few sessions with was able to keep my fitness level up the right stretching would fix all. With with a lot of bike riding and swimming. about two weeks to the City to Surf in I also started with John Bell's deep- Sydney, I aimed for that. However, water training at the AIS on Tuesday three days before that run the pain nights. seemed to vanish and I was very Many people were very helpful. 'Try relieved. I ran the Sydney race a lot resting; try walking; try physio; try slower that I would have liked and also more stretching; try slower runs; more felt very tight. At the end I sat down for bike riding; try acupuncture; don't a while and when I got up I could not worry about your times; just give me walk because of an unbearable pain in your ticket; (said Roy)' etc., etc. I tried the left backside. I had to literally drag them all except for Roy's suggestion. my way up to my meeting my brother, On the September 8, I was able to calling into a chemist for Panadol, complete the Canberra Centre 5km. I downing three of them almost without a felt a bit tired but all in all I was fairly drink. The police then did not want to happy and so with eight weeks left I felt give by brother permission to bring his confident in being able to get back into vehicle in to pick me up; they wanted to full training. I was happy with my Two call an ambulance! Not very Peaks Run, managing a good strong encouraging for my budding finish and overtaking Caroline international running career! Campbell in the last two kilometres. The next day I booked in to see a The October Vets Run/Walking sports doctor (best in Canberra, I was Handicap at Weston Park gave me an told by many). When I saw him on the opportunity for a final test and with following Friday he seemed almost Mike Charlton as my pace maker, I had unsurprised. "You have a muscle spasm, a good strong run. I was all set! don't know why, don't worry, a common On the plane over there were about problem with runners, it will go in few 60 of the 168 Australians running in the days". A few very expensive tablets later event. I met a few runners. There was a I waited for the 'few' days. chap in Perth who had run 37 The following Thursday night my nothing under 3.30, and his left leg gave way and, almost in tears, I twin brother who had run one in 3.45. crawled on my hands and knees down A 22-year-old woman from Sydney my hallway into bed, wondering what whose main bit of training had been the happened to the 'few' days I had been City to Surf. There were two 18year-old told about. Next morning things didn't men (one from Cairns, and one from feel too bad until I got out of bed and Perth) who had been given the entry as found I could not walk. I sent my wife to a birthday present. Like the young lady the chemist to hire crutches and at from Sydney neither had run a WORMALD 8.50am I began ringing the doctor to ask marathon before. what time could I come in, because I As we came into New York the flight FIRE SYSTEMS Also supporting ACTVAC are: THE WEST DEAKIN HELLENIC BOWLING CLUB THE IGA SUPERMARKET AT WANNIASSA INSTANT COLOUR PRESS IN BELCONNEN February Vetrunner — Page 5 host wished the marathon women 'on-line' for the runners on board 'good luck'. "porta johns" (porta loos). It The few days before the was advertised that there race were taken up with would be 500 "johns" but I getting over the jet lag, don't know where they were, orienting my way around as I certainly didn't see New York, and attending the anything like 500. Perhaps Runner's Expo to collect the that included the course as running bib and timing chip. well? The Expo was a showcase in I shouldn't have worried marketing. We were not (about the women) because allowed in without proof of as start time got closer so entry. Then our chip got us did the jockeying for position entry into the merchandising along the fence near the section where every starting corrals. This fence conceivable bit of running became an unofficial urinal gear was for sale. It was also except that it was being possible to enter just about utilised by both men and every marathon that was women. The men faced the coming up, mainly fence, while the women American, but many turned and faced the crowd. international runs were also Training in Canberra. With both the old and new parliament I had heard of women doing represented. The Sydney houses in the background, Geoff relaxes after training run. this sort of thing before Marathon had a good stand with a discussing the clothing they were races but being an elderly video of runners crossing the Harbour wearing and how it would affect various conservative type, I never really thought Bridge. I didn't see anything for the parts of their anatomy. The man from too much about it. Suddenly there at a Canberra Marathon, maybe next year I Florida and myself drifted into talk of distance of three metres, women of could be sent over to maintain the politics but it sort of ended when he said every shape and age would stroll over to stand! On Saturday a walk/jog in the USA does what it wants and doesn't the fence turn, and then without even International Friendship Run from the really worry about what other countries blinking drop down and do what men do United Nations through the streets of think. I'm not sure Mr. Bush would standing up. If they caught you looking New York to finish with a breakfast in have been too pleased hearing him say they simply smiled. I overheard one Central Park. That night there was a that! fellow say to his girl friend, "I need to go free pasta dinner for runners, The bus trip took about an hour to over and do a pee". Her reply was "so do accompanied by entertainment and the drop off point on Staten Island I, see if you can find me a space that fireworks at the Tavern On The Green where, literally, dozens of buses spilled isn't too squishy". It was like they were in Central Park. Much 'good luck for to- us out into the 'runners only' staging talking about buying an ice cream. morrow' being given and received. area. From here we ambled to the main Talk about losing concentration The day of the race meant an early staging area, Fort Wadsworth, at the before a marathon! start, as we needed to be on the buses foot of the Verrazano Narrows Bridge, My only real complaint, if any, was before 7am. I shared a Yellow Cab with which had been transformed into a mini that the start was 11am, why it wasn’t the young City to Surfer, a 24-year-old athletes village. Everyone was entitled 10am I don't know. Eventually start New Zealand women whose only other to a free breakfast of bagels, yoghurt, time drew close and from our position, marathon was the London, where she juice and tea/coffee, with bags of (allocated by colour and previous times) did a 4:10 earlier this year, and an peanuts. There were people on stage in the corrals, we all started to move up American from the central west who conducting pre-marathon warm-ups; a the 100m to the Bridge itself. All the was doing his second one and hoping to large tent for religious services and the time watching the parade doing their break the three hour mark. Queuing, (or American Peanut Industry had a Large final nervous pee, against the fence, 'on-line' as the Americans call it) for the Peanut. This was like a small version of only now they were almost next to you. buses was the first indication of what Australia's Big Banana and there were The start was a cannon shot. I didn't the crowd was to be like. While queuing tours through it so that we could all see hear it but I was aware that we were for the buses I got talking to a 30-year- how wonderful (American) peanuts are. away. The weather was about 14 old born and bred New Yorker, (one of There were also bands and degrees C. Even so I wore my beanie for the few she said), doing her sixth New entertainment. Massage was also about one a half kilometres and my York Marathon and was hoping for her available. sloppy joe for about the next three. I best of 3:20. She works in computer At this stage we also needed to get think there was a cool breeze from the sales and had just sold some big our luggage to the baggage trucks. To do water for the first part, which made it software packages to the National Bank this you passed the world's longest seem colder than it really was. Over the and Westpac Bank. I was bit taken urinal. I estimate its length to be 100 bridge the traffic was unbelievable. The aback when she said how relieved she metres on a gently sloping hill just near positioning and moving around slower was that she didn't have to travel to the baggage trucks. The men certainly runners was far worse than I Sydney to conduct training for the were making good use of it but the poor experienced in the City to Surf in packages. No she has never been to fellow at the bottom who obviously had Sydney. A lot of the bridges in New York Australia. the job of pumping the collection into his are double deckers. Depending on the On the bus to the start I sat next to truck looked absolutely frustrated about colour allocation runners went over the a man from Florida who was 'up' for the how to deal with the metre high bubble top deck or the lower deck. I was a lower experience and will be happy to finish. of froth that had developed and stopped deck and not long onto the bridge chants The two young women marathoners sat him from doing his job properly. I of "OI OI OI" went up. The noise was behind me and spent a good deal of time couldn't help feeling sorry for all the deafening! So the first two kilometres Page 6 — February Vetrunner became a real fun run. I even stopped traffic had thinned and became quite Over the Madison Avenue Bridge taking any notice of the (fewer now) manageable. I couldn't help noticing a from The Bronx back into Manhattan, men and women still stopping for a pee. girl with skin-tight shorts and gloves and at the 21-mile mark that I decided I heard a clop about in time with every tucked into the back of her shorts. Every to give it all I could. The crowds here second step of mine. It seemed to be time she took a step it looked like she seemed to become thicker, and they wandering around, on my left, and then was waving at me. spilled onto the road. This, and the fact behind on my right, then back behind At about half way I saw my first that a lot of runners who had gone too then left again. I then realised "it" was wheelchair athlete. He was in a four- hard, too early. They were now starting beside me. "It" was in fact the noise wheeler and pushing it backwards! I to slow up quite considerably, so the last being made by runner with a 'spring' kept the pace and at the half way mark 8km became like the first 8km all over instead of a right leg. the clock was at 1:52. Hell that is only again. We turned off Fifth Avenue for a Over the bridge and the first five minutes slower than my fastest ever loop through Central Park, out of park meeting with the crowd I had heard half marathon. What if I'm going too again passing the Trump Tower on the about them, but to actually experience it fast with the lack of training? What if left, back into Central Park for the short is a bit hard to describe. It was a bit like my injury flares up? The doubts took run home. I was cursing myself that I the crowd on Bondi esplanade at the end over. Why was I feeling so good? I don't had slowed up earlier and I was cursing of the City to Surf, except that the New remember feeling this good in previous the slower runners who were forcing me York crowd was deeper, noisier and marathons! Something will go wrong. to go around them. I was happy with there right to the end of the race. At With the doubts setting in, I slowed up. being able to finish strongly. about the 3km mark I suddenly realised I ran the next 15km probably within I crossed the line with two others, that I was running a marathon, (and myself. The only let up from the crowds one of whom promptly started to one of the world's biggest), so I'd better was on the bridges. Coming onto First collapse. Medical staff was with him start and not to worry about the crowd, Avenue was like being treated like immediately. There were people other runners, or peeing women, Royalty. People here were shouting from handing out medals but I insisted I be although by now there was nowhere windows, some two and three storeys 'presented' with mine. The young much left to go. The pre-race high. woman obliged and placed the medal information spoke about toilets being The route itself is fairly flat. There around my neck. As the New York available every 'four miles'. I did not see are three big long straight stretches. medal says, "Few things in life match any and I certainly would have hated to The Brooklyn- Queens Express from the the thrill of a marathon”. try and find one in the crowds. Water three-mile mark to eight miles. First We were then given a foil blanket to stations were very well spaced at every Avenue in Manhattan from 16 miles to wrap around ourselves, and then mile with Gatorade at every other mile. 20 miles. Then from 21 mile point, on someone obligingly taped it across our There was only one sponge station and Madison Ave Bridge in the Bronx, down chest to save holding it. From there it that was at the 18.5-mile mark. Power Fifth Ave to Central Park turnoff at 24 was about a 100-metre walk to claim Gel bars were given out at the 18-mile miles. On these long stretches, for as far our luggage. By the time I got there the mark. Medical Aid stations were as the eye could see there were bobbing New York autumn had started to make advertised as following each water heads. its presence felt and I was starting to station. I did not see any except on the I found it easier to identify the mile shiver. I pity those who took another Queens Boro Bridge just before the half marks. I don't know whether I didn't hour or two to finish. way mark. have to look as often or they whether Some of my personal statistics: Signage was really well done with a they more prominently positioned. The Overall place 7803 from a total of 31834, mile sign and clock on every mile. 20-mile mark and I was on 2:57. I knew Gender place 6537 from 21625, Kilometre signs and clocks were posted I could go faster and I felt really good. Age place 150 from 1030, Australians 33 from 168, every 5km. At about 4km I was thinking This was despite the fact that it was Barkers (the name and not the one’s that do the traffic was starting to thin when about from here I noticed more and the baking) second from 11; suddenly from a road on the left more runners pulling up with injuries. Official time 3:53.41 not all that far off my PB, thousands of runners joined us. They While hobbling, and in obvious pain, Age graded time 3.19.24, were the 'upper deckers'. they were usually saying to those Performance level 63.6%, and On reaching the 5km mark I saw stopping to offer assistance, "no I'll be Previous marathons: Sydney October 2001 in 4:05. Six-Foot Track (46km) March 2002 in that I had ran it in 25 minutes. That right, you go on". 5:45. Canberra April 2002 in 3.52. fast and I felt like a champion! From a running point of view things almost became uneventful. That is except for the crowds; which in Queens actually started to spill on to the road. Being fascinated by the pockets of Orthodox Jews, and Sunday church groups who had obviously cancelled their service to erect big banners encouraging the runners as they passed. In Brooklyn, an old lady desperately trying to cross the road. The bands of every description, Jazz, Rock and Roll, Heavy Metal, Classical (only a few instruments), and some young people with their tape recorder playing so loud it was nearly shaking. Got to the 10km in 52 minutes, and feeling really comfortable. By now the February Vetrunner — Page 7 DRUG TAKING IN SPORT: GETTING THE FACTS RIGHT CLIVE BEESON writes about his that Ron Clarke is advocating that sea- effect given to sea-level runners and view that there is no room for drug level born and bred athletes ‘cheat’ so as road cyclists after being injected with taking in sport and the fact that to be competitive when competing EPO.) there is an independent sports drug against high altitude born and bred Most importantly, when the high administration operating in runners or runners who live and train altitude trained runner races at sea Australia in the name of The at high altitude for long extended level, the thickened blood will enable Australian Sports Drug Agency. periods of time (e.g. three to four years). this runner to get more oxygen to his/ This ‘cheating’ would take the form of her muscles per unit of time, in a sense Jack Pennington’s article ‘Drug blood doping or some comparable ‘drug supercharging his muscles with oxygen. Usage Still Rampant’ (August assistance’. Mr. Pennington presents For shorter races (sprints, middle Vetrunner, p.23) raises some contentious ‘evidence’ indicating that as both sea distances like 800m to 1,000m), the issues, issues that need to be addressed. level and high-altitude runners have advantage will not be critical, but it will At the same time, the article includes similar maximum oxygen uptakes, then be critical for longer races (5,000m, various errors of fact that may lead to a they will have similar red blood cell 3,000m , 10,000m, further questioning of other facts and counts. In other words all runners have marathon). In medical terms, this ‘evidence’ in the article. But before I get similar circulatory systems, and the thickened blood caused by living and into these issues and errors, let me say only reasons why African distance training at high altitudes is called at the outset that I totally agree with runners are better than their sea-level secondary polycythemia, and is Mr. Pennington’s general thrust trained counterparts is that they are common in such peoples as the Sherpas regarding “drug” (I prefer to use the better trained and are better of the Himalayas, the South American reference ‘narcotic’) usage in sport. It is international racers. Mr. Pennington’s Andeans, and the Kenyans of the Rift a criminal act, and should be dealt with second argument is that because Clarke Valley. most severely, with life bans for those didn’t win an Olympic or Now, in order that the sea-level caught without any extenuating Commonwealth title, then he is a lesser trained runner be able to be competitive circumstances. There is no room in sport against the high altitude trained runner for those who take drugs. Australia is when racing at sea-level or high upholding the high moral ground on this Ron Clarke: "My greatest altitudes, Clarke advocates blood doping issue, but it appears to me that the the sea-level trained runner so that his/ world isn’t giving us bouquets for doing frustration in track was her blood will be thicker and thus be so. running at Mexico able to capture similar quantities of First the errors. Australia does have oxygen to the high altitude trained an independent sports drug City . . . I didn't have a runners during a distance race. This is administration: the Australian Sports chance to show if I could not ‘cheating’, in the sense that the sea- Drug Agency. Said Aouita commenced level runner is not getting an unfair running internationally over 5,000m in have won or not" advantage over the high altitude 1982, not 1979. I cannot locate any runner than Said Aouita, who did win runner. What is does is create a level record of Aouita running an an Olympic gold medal. Of course, this playing field for all the runners and I international 5,000 in 1989 as he argument is tied in with his first believe this was the issue being alluded aggravated a badly injured calf muscle argument, in the sense that it lends to by Clarke. Thus, the blood doping in the 1988 Olympic 800m (placing credence to Mr. Pennington’s belief that must be given to all sea-level runners, third) after having goals of winning the Clarke is wrong regarding ‘blood not just one or two. For example, if 800m, 1500m and 5,000m. There is no doping’, the implication being that Lasse Viren did blood dope before the official record of Aouita being an Clarke has sour grapes over his poor 1976 Montreal Olympics then this was international coach: his claims made international career at Olympic and cheating, as none of his sea-level trained earlier this year to Australian Commonwealth events, especially when opponents blood doped. However, authorities have been refuted by various competing against Africans in knowing the adverse effects of Moroccan runners, including the 1500m particular. inefficient blood doping on the 1984 US world record holder, El Guerrouj. The I consider Mr. Pennington is wrong Olympic Road Cycling Team (one known ‘Norwegian policeman’ mentioned was on both issues. death and five cases of hepatitis), then in fact, Lasse Viren from Finland. Viren First, Mr. Pennington fails to realise it is not something I would do. won the 5,000m and 10,000m at the that though all elite runners have Now to the second argument. This is 1972 Munich Olympics and the 10,000m similar maximum oxygen uptakes, those a well-worn and tired argument, which at the 1976 Montreal Olympics by who attain this level at high altitude do has been largely dispensed with long between 10 metres to 20 metres, not so in a rarefied atmosphere where there ago by distant running aficionados ‘centimetres’. A major Kenyan distance is less oxygen compared to sea level. outside Australia. To base a runner’s runner: John Nuguri (winner of the Crucially, then, in order that the high relative greatness on gold medals is no 5,000m at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and altitude runner attain this maximum longer relevant. It is world records that five times World CC Champion) refused oxygen uptake, he/she must have more matter. Said Aouita would still be a a drug test in 1992, when being red blood cells so as to capture the same great runner in my eyes if he hadn’t suspected of being on steroids by the amount of oxygen per unit of time as for won in Los Angeles in 1984 for he was IAAF. To me, this refusal symbolises the sea-level runner, who runs in air for example, the first runner to break proof of illegal ‘drug usage’ by Nuguri. that has relatively more oxygen. In 13mins for 5,000m in 1986 just as Ron addition, the haemoglobin will become Clarke was the first runner to break Now to the general thrust of Mr. more enriched in the high altitude 13mins for three miles in 1965. Too Pennington’s thoughts. Essentially runner. Hence, the high altitude runner many unforseen circumstances can there are two main arguments. First, develops thickened blood. (This is the happen at the Olympics to prevent an Page 8 — February Vetrunner otherwise great runner from winning a years at high altitude in France), and of the ‘sit and kicker’.) And with a full- gold medal. Runners such as Gordon Keino with their thickened blood, were time accountancy job and family to Pirie, Jim Ryun, Mary Decker, and able to ‘play’ with Clarke until the contend with. (Aoutia didn’t have these Roger Bannister spring to mind (though 9,000m mark and then surged away important societal factors to worry Bannister did win a Commonwealth leaving a gasping Clarke in their wake. about.) gold). And if El Guerrouj fails to win (Clarke ran the last lap in approx. 85 The final point is that Clarke and gold at Athens 2004 (after ‘failing’ when secs). A similar thing happened to John Aouita never raced each other. The hot favourite in Sydney 2000 1,500m), Farrington in the Marathon, virtually moral of the story is that be careful are we then to say he is not a great collapsing over the line in 2.50.16 after when comparing runners from different runner? Of course not! As for Clarke, he passing the half marathon in 1.08.00 periods, for basing comparisons on just had a debilitating Achilles injury (4 odd. So in all fairness, Clarke was one aspect – such as Olympic gold weeks) just prior to the 1964 Tokyo terribly unlucky to have had to run in medals – may give a distorted view. Olympics 10,000m (plus the fact he [and Mexico, a fact that the great Emil To conclude, one word of advice for Tony Blue] ‘took over responsibility’ of Zatopek alluded to during the 10,000m Mr. Aouita, if he gets the job as national the National Track and Field team due (he was a Czech commentator and is coach of Australian distance running. to a poor team manager who did accredited with saying “unfair Unless our top/elite male and female nothing). Olympics” as Clarke collapsed after the distance runners spend some In the 10,000m when favourite, finishing line) and, by giving Clarke the considerable time living and training at Clarke, as leader, had to contend 10,000m gold medal he had won at high altitudes (over 8,000 ft/2,700m running through thirty five lapped Helsinki in 1952 after Clarke’s career. ideal), then they will not be in the same runners over the last five laps, a Are we still to say that Clarke is a ball park as those who do. Sure, the situation which was shrewdly used by lesser runner than Aouita? I say no, for occasional champion will come along the winner, Billy Mills (USA) to both Clarke’s running record is fantastic: 18 (e.g. Derek Clayton, Robert de Castella, conserve energy and then to sprint past world records between December 1963 Steve Moneghetti), who will still win Clarke in the final . At the and August 1968, with his times for championship races and/or run world 1968 Mexico Olympics, Clarke had to 5,000m and 10,000m still more than records whilst training at sea level. But battle the thin air in the 10,000m, a competitive today – were achieved in if we want consistently high calibre battle that nearly saw him lose his life. primitive spikes, on shifting cinder runners, and plenty of them, it is a must (Clarke’s heart still carries the scars of tracks, and with only rudimentary that they be given the best possible this terrible race.) The Africans, Temu medical knowledge and virtually no chance to reach the top. This will entail (winner), Wolde, Gamoudi (although sports medicine in Australia. And with training at the high altitudes already sea-level born had trained for three no pace makers! (Clarke lived in an era mentioned.

ENTHRALLING MIDDLE DISTANCE RACES AT THE TRACK DECEMBER 12 back to where she was. As Maureen Not taking anything away from the came up to Jenny’s shoulder, Jenny other athletes that competed in the pushed it up another notch hoping December 12 meet, the two great races Maureen would come with her, but of the night came in the final events of Maureen had run her race and there the pentathlon and the final events of wasn’t anything left in the tack. the evening. As they crossed the line Jenny was First up were the women running timed at 2:42.8 and Maureen 2:43.4 that over 800m with a field comprising Jenny was only a smidgen under her own Langton, Maureen Rossiter and Fran record of 2:42.7. Fran ran a 3:09.6 to get Harris, all from different age groups, enough points to get ahead of the Jenny a W30, Maureen a W50 and Fran Australian record of 3258 points that in the W60 group. she broke in Melbourne, that mark now As they got the gun to go there was a stands at 3260, not that much in front whisper around that Jenny was going to but still a record. For the record act as the pacer to pull Maureen into Maureen scored 2818 well short of another of her PBs this season, with Margaret Taylor’s W50 mark of 3299. Fran Harris left to get round the two The Australian record in the W50s is a laps on her own, though out of the three, massive 3925 by Queenslander Una she was the one that broke the record in Lund back in 1991. Jenny had 1819 in the overall pointscore in the W60 what was probably her first pentathlon pentathlon. with the vets. For the other two, Jenny jumped to Although neither Colin Farlow and the lead closely followed by Maureen, John Morton were going to win the M40 Maureen even passed Jenny for a brief age division of the pentathlon, the men’s moment, but Jenny must have felt the 1500m was a real classic in the mould The pentathlon. The final event for the pace was a little two slow and as they that we haven’t seen since the days of in the pentathlon is the 800m. Jenny got the bell for the final lap it was Jenny Tony Murray and Garry Hand in the Langton finishes just ahead of Maureen leading by a couple of metres. This late 1980s. Rossiter. stayed the same as they took on the Remarkably there were five M40s in bend after passing the 200m to go point, Jenny was leading, but by not all the the field that also included Kevin Jenny even opening the gap by a metre much, and Maureen was winding it up a Matthews, Craig Wisdom and Dale or two. Coming into the home straight notch or two, even Jenny having to look Moore as well as Colin and John. Right February Vetrunner — Page 9 from the gun it was obvious that these two were going to lead the way in deciding the outcome of the first across the line between the five athletes. Colin took the lead for the first lap, then it was John out in front, only to find that Colin must have thought that if he was going to win this duel he would have to lead the way and try and take the steam out of John, who is known to have a pretty good kick in the final 100m. At the bell it was still Colin first, but by only a couple of metres. With 200m go Colin still led the way as they went round the bend and into the home straight. With about 80m to go John moved up a gear, if that was possible for either of them after such an incredible first 1400m between the two with neither of them willing to give an inch. As John came up to Colin’s shoulder the kick this time came from Colin as he attempted to give John no leeway and it looked like Colin was going to hold on, Diabetes Awareness. The track walk on December 12 was special with Neroli Stayt with both of them giving their all on of Diabetes ACT, far right, starting the walk as well as answering questions in regard that last few metres. At the line it was to the onset of Diabetes Type 2. Colin stopping the clock at 4:33.8 six For the men Bob Banens took the tenths of a seconds ahead of John. hammer honours ahead of Ray Green What a race, the best this season so and Peter Neill. Stephen Dawes also far. won his age group. It was quite a coincidence that six In the discus the age group winners tenths was the same margin of were: M45 Joseph Flor, M50 Bob difference as the women’s 800m. Banens, M55 Ray Green, M60 Robin For the record Dale Moore was also Whyte, M65 Peter Neill and M70 John under the five minute mark on a touch Burns. For the women W35 Jayne over 4:40 seconds ahead of Craig Hardy led the way in her age group Wisdom’s 5:16.1 and the eventual M40 ahead of Claire Perry. Other age group pointscore winner in the pentathlon, winners included W40 Sharon Gibbins, Kevin Matthews on 5:36.1 with a total W50 Carmen Carlon, W55 Trish of 2548, Craig 2251, Colin 2193, John Thomas, W60 Jenny Bourke and W65 2191 and Dale 1958 despite having Mary Wahren. three fouls in the discus. The final throwing event this week There was also quite a tussle in the was the javelin where M45 Stephen M55s with Kevin Chamberlain taking Dawes had another win, as did Bob part in his first pentathlon against the Banens M50 and Ray Green M55. For renowned pentathlete in Garry Maher. the women Jayne Hardy W35, Sharon Kevin put up a pretty good fight but Gibbins W40, W50 Carmen Carlon, W55 although Kevin’s score was over 300 Trish Thomas, W60 Jen Bourke and points better in the 1500m, Garry was W65 Mary Wahren capped off a good just too strong in the two throws, the meet with three wins each. Middle distance king. After three jump and the 200m winning with a total On the track the first events were remarkable wins against top of 2759 to 2553. the two steeplechases, the 2000m for the opponents in the 800 and 1500m Other age group winners were M30 women and men over sixty and the Colin Farlow can rightly claim to be John Donovan, M65 Colin Robbie and 3000m for the rest. Sadly in the shorter the form runner of 2002. M75 Ewen Drummond. Ewen failed to race Bryan Thomas was the lone runner for wins in their age groups. They score in either of the runs getting no on his way to an 8mins 48sec run. eventually went to Tony Andrews M55, points in the 200 and 1500m. Numbers were a little better in the Robin Whyte M60s, Jim O’Donnell The other three throwing events for longer event with five competitors in the M65s, Dave Mackenzie M70s, Bev the non-pentathletes were the hammer, three age group race. M50 Trevor Sibthrope W50s, Monika Short W55s discus and javelin. Taking the hammer Jacobs was unchallenged in his age and Val Chesterton W60s. first the big throw came from Jayne group and had the best time of the five With quite a few sprinters taking Hardy whose 46.01 was only 45 in the race. In the M40s Roger part in the pentathlon the 60m sprint centimetres short of her own Australian Pilkington led the way from Nigel only attracted a relatively small field of record. Sharon Gibbins also got in an Coldrick as did Michael Gardner from 10. M40 Michael Rutter led the way over 40m throw. Other age group Geoff Barker in the M55s. with a pretty smart 7.5 with M45 Phil winners were W55 Trish Thomas, W60 The walking event this week White, in his first track competition this Jen Bourke and W65 Mary Wahren. attracted quite a good field of 12 vying season, getting in a 8.4 to beat M55 Page 10 — February Vetrunner

Colin Burns’ 8.5. John Donovan DECEMBER 12 PENTATHLON RESULTS and John Burns also won their age Javelin 200m Discus 1500 Total groups of M30 and M70 Age Name Dist Score Dist Score Time Score Dist Score Time Score respectively. M30 John Donovan 4.18 235 24.44 222 30.9 190 22.00 310 6:54.6 86 1043 M40 Kevin Matthews 5.42 610 37.22 501 25.5 656 22.74 324 5:36.1 457 2548 For the women Sharon Gibbins Craig Wisdom 4.74 449 34.83 460 28.7 415 24.89 365 5:16.1 562 2251 ran an 8.9, nearly a second ahead Colin Farlow 4.39 372 23.32 265 26.7 559 15.13 182 4:33.8 815 2193 of Jill Brown with Claire Perry John Morton 4.45 385 15.18 134 25.9 623 18.17 238 4:34.4 811 2191 Dale Moore 4.11 313 28.09 345 27.1 529 0 0 4:40.6 771 1958 back in third spot. All coming up M55 Garry Maher 4.38 595 27.09 479 27.0 763 22.32 403 6:40.5 519 2759 with wins in their respective age Kevin Chamberlain 3.98 479 22.31 370 28.9 618 15.54 248 5:40.0 838 2553 groups. M65 Colin Robbie 3.81 589 26.28 528 32.2 555 29.69 604 6:30.0 568 2844 M70 Rad Leovic 3.50 566 20.83 442 37.1 370 15.69 306 7:13.5 486 2170 The 400m had the best field of M75 Ewen Drummond 3.16 523 19.77 467 58.5 0 19.50 468 0 0 1458 the meet this week with 21 runners W30 Jenny Langton 3.73 248 20.6 310 30.0 465 18.71 255 2:42.8 541 1819 facing the starter in the heats. It W50 Maureen Rossiter 3.75 560 16.78 371 30.1 773 14.82 279 2:43.4 835 2818 W60 Fran Harris 3.59 710 21.76 684 34.0 691 16.47 433 3:9.6 744 3262* turned out to be a great race * Australian record between Geoff Sims, the current W50 Jill Brown 9.8. record holder in the M50 division, 2000m Race Walk Robert Barbaro also a M50 and Michael M55 Tony Andrews 13:02 Rutter a M40. Bob took the honours M60 Robin Whyte 10:46, Terry Munro 14:47, Nigel with a 56.5 which was a couple of Crew 21:32 M65 Jim O'Donnell 13:23 hundredths under the record but M70 Dave Mackenzie 13:52 because of hand held timing 1.04 W50 Bev Sibthorpe 12:59, Carmen Carlon 16:12, Val seconds had to be added to his time. Bland 16:19 Michael Rutter was just off the pace at W55 Monika Short 12:58 W60 Val Chesterton 14:07, Nola De Chazal 17:09. 57.1 with Geoff Sims running a 57.6. 3000m Steeplechase The other two to get under the 60 M40 Roger Pilkington 13:11, Nigel Coldrick 14:43 second barrier were Dave MaClelland M50 Trevor Jacobs 11:42 59.4 and Pat Stakelum 59.8 with Bryce M55 Michael Gardner 15:08, Geoff Barker 16:04. Anderson rounding up a first class race 2000m Steeplechase M60 Bryan Thomas 08:48. only eight tenths over the minute. Peter Hammer Cullen, also a first timer this season, M45 Stephen Dawes 21.64 took out the M35s and Alan Norden M50 Bob Banens 40.61, Robert Kennelly 21.54 M55 and Bryan Thomas M60 M55 Ray Green 39.68 M65 Peter Neill 26.04 For the women it was good to see W35 Jayne Hardy 46.01 Ellen Lloyd back in action and her effort W40 Sharon Gibbins 41.64 of 1:10.5 was more than two seconds W55 Trish Thomas 26.11 W60 Jenny Bourke 29.69 ahead of Sue Bourke and ten ahead of W65 Mary Wahren 22.84. Jill Brown. Other to finish included Val The pentathlon. Claire Perry a newcomer Discus Band, Carmen Carlon and Cory Collins to the Pentathons, is seen in action at the M45 Joseph Flor 21.66, Stephen Dawes 20.89 who ran a 1:19.3 to win the W65s. discus leg. M50 Bob Banens 38.82, Robert Kennelly 21.18 5000m M55 Ray Green 41.31 The distance event this week was M30 Phillip McGilvray 18:13 M60 Robin Whyte 20.79 another of the popular 3000/5000m M40 Ross Gregg 19:18. Nick Mesher 19:52. M65 Peter Neill 25.39 events that had a good field of 24 3000m M70 John Burns 19.94 M35 Peter Cullen 11:29 W35 Jayne Hardy 36.31, Claire Perry 10.98 runners facing the starter who again M40 Bryce Anderson 11:20 W40 Sharon Gibbins 32.68, Margaret Mesher 15.89 this week used the twin starting M45 Mike Leahey 10:16, Ken White 11:46, Nick W50 Carmen Carlon 10.69 procedure that had one group in the Blackaby 15:54 W55 Trish Thomas 18.5 M50 Geoff Moore 11:55, Neil Boden 12:25, Patrick outer lanes and the other in the normal W60 Jenny Bourke 23.97, Nola De Chazal 13.1 Stakelum 12:45, Terry Levings 14:17 W65 Mary Wahren 16.03. starting position, the outer start M55 Michael Gardner 13:13, Bob Parker 14:01, Geoff Javelin runners having to keep to the outside Barker 14:03, Roy Jones 14:45 M45 Stephen Dawes 20.6, Joseph Flor 18.98 lanes until they got into the straight. M60 Bryan Thomas 12:52, Graeme Small 13:30 M50 Bob Banens 45.59 W35 Amanda Walker 13:05, Claire Perry 19:04 M55 Ray Green 35.26 In the shorter event Michael Leahey W50 Kathy Sims 11:59, Cathy Montalto 12:36, W35 Jayne Hardy 36.38 was a class above the rest winning by Carmen Carlon 27:03 W40 Sharon Gibbins 21.71 more than a minute from Bryce W55 Alice Scott 15:20. W50 Carmen Carlon 7.73 Anderson and Peter Cullen. Other age 400m W55 Trish Thomas 16.47 M35 Peter Cullen 1:03.2 W60 Jenny Bourke 23.25, Nola De Chazal 8.91 group winners were Geoff Moore M50s, M40 Michael Rutter 0:57.1, Dave McClelland 0:59.4, W65 Mary Wahren 18.34. Michael Gardner M55s, and Bryan Bryce Anderson 1:00.8, Nigel Coldrick 1:13.2 M45 Phil White 0:59.0, Ken White 1:06.7 Thomas M60s. It was also good to see DECEMBER 19 Terry Levings back again as he strives M50 Robert Barbaro 0:56.5, Geoff Sims 0:57.6, Patrick Stakelum 0:59.8, Neil Boden 1:11.2 The program this week was the last to get back to his peak fitness. M55 Alan Norden 1:18.6, Bob Parker 1:20.2 of 2002 and most of the events were For the women Kathy Sims had an M60 Bryan Thomas 1:19.0, Terry Munro 1:41.8 mainly for fun. easy win by 37 seconds from Cathy W30 Ellen Lloyd 1:10.5 Of course there is always the W40 Sue Bourke 1:12.7 Montalto with Amanda Walker a W50 Jill Brown 1:17.3, Val Bland 2:12.5, Carmen exception and that was the heavy further 29 seconds adrift. Alice Scott Carlon 2:43.5 that took place on the was the winner in the W55s. W65 Cory Collins 1:19.3. lower field from 6 o’clock. The longer event had only three 60m I purposely mention this exception M30 John Donovan 8.9 runners with Phillip McGilvray running M40 Michael Rutter 7.5 as there was one Australian record a pretty smart 18.13 to be over a minute M45 Phil White 8.4 broken and another equalled. These two ahead of Ross Greig with Nick Mesher a M55 Colin Burns 8.5. Alan Norden 9.2 ladies have been in great from since the M70 John Burns 9.7. Rad Leovic 10.8 Melbourne World Championships with further 34 seconds behind. W35 Claire Perry 10.9 W40 Sharon Gibbins 8.9 both Sharon Gibbins and Jayne Hardy the owners of those Australian marks. February Vetrunner — Page 11 First came Sharon with a top throw of 13.38 that bettered her previous W40 PB by 16 centimetres then Jayne got in a 14.46 that equalled her mark set only a few weeks ago. Indeed Jayne’s heave was the second best of the night with only Ray Green bettering it with a 14.77. Congratulations to both of these fine athletes. Other good heaves were seen by Ewen Drummond, Peter Neill, Tom Geraghty and Stephen Dawes. The only other female thrower was Raylea Rudov who threw an 11.83. Back up at the track the first event was over , not a distance that any of us are familiar with, though I have seen this distance run in some of the Grande Prix that are held in Europe. It shows how unusual this distance was as there was no laid down starting point and Mike Adler our starter had to measure from the one mile mark and mark it with chalk. Right from the gun it was the form athlete of the first half of this year’s program Colin Farlow taking the lead with Michael Leahey right on his shoulder and it stayed this way for the first few laps of the eight they had to run. They Colin proved that he was the one to beat as he opened up a gap of about 20 metres and this was how it stayed as they got the bell for the final The 100m Gift Finals. The President's meet this week included the 100m Gift for both lap. At the 200 to go mark it appeared men and women. Top, from the left, are the women finalists, Sharon Gibbins W40, that Michael was not going to give in, Claire Perry W35, Jennifer Krevatin W35, Maureen Rossiter W50, Fran Harris W60 and indeed he was closing the gap and Sue Bourke W40. Above, from the left are the men's finalists, Andrew Malone M30, although he got to within four seconds Garry Maher M55, Robert Barbaro M50, Kevin Matthews M40, Col Burns M55 and as they approached the line it always Roger Stewart M50. Maureen Rossiter and Robert Barbaro were the 2002 winners. looked like Colin was in control. Dale See Bryan Thomas's report next page. Moore put in a pretty good effort to take season). Others to finish were Terry oldest in the race, was going to get up. third spot ahead of Dave McClelland Munro and Nigel Crew. Only two ladies Alas it wasn’t to be as both Maureen and Bryce Anderson. Others to finish, in in the event with, as one would have Rossiter and Sue Bourke got past her order were Nick Mesher, Ken White, expected Val Chesterton leading the almost right on the line. There wasn’t Jim White, Ian Colhoquon, Jim way home from Nola de Chazal. all that much in it with Maureen getting Sawkins, Rod Gilchrist, Nigel Coldrick, In the fitness walk Dave Mackenzie the nod from the judges leaving Sue Mario Larocca, Graeme Small and Geoff was the lone competitor for the men and again the “bridesmaid”, it was her third Barker. he had to play second fiddle to Monika second place in the event. After Sue Of the five women in the field Anne Short who had the best time of the five- came Sharon Gibbins, Jennifer Krevatin Young took first spot from Ann Maree person race. Others to finish in order and Claire Perry. Calnan and Margaret McSpadden then were Val Bland, and newcomer, Denise In the men’s final there was followed Alice Scott and Pam Weiss. English and Margaret Mesher. practically a re-run of the women’s The next race kept to the old Just after the walk was on it’s way, event as Garry Maher, one of the oldest Imperial measures with a race walk and the sprinters lined up for the heats of in the field, looking like the winner till a fitness walk over the mile. the 100m Male and Female Gift. This is the last few metres when Robert Besides some of the youngsters who an age based event with the younger Barbaro came from nowhere to snatch were away out in front, we had the one’s having to give away distance to the win right on the line. Others to unusual feat of a middle distance the older competitors. finish in order were Col Burns, Kevin runner leading the vets after the first of In the first of the two heats Garry Matthews, Andrew Malone and Roger the four laps. This came about as Maher and Col Burns got through to the Stewart. Lachlan Wilkinson missed the start and final and in the second Robert Barbaro, There were three jumps on the card, as he started the leaders were almost at Kevin Matthews, Andrew Malone and two of them being standing start events the 200m mark and he did well to make Roger Stewart also advanced to the in both the long and triple jumps, and up ground in all but the top two, Geoff final. With only five sprinters in the the . Sims (that middle distance runner) and women's event, the race went to a The first was the with Robin Whyte (not a middle distance straight final. eight competitors, four men and four runner by any means but has been The women’s final produced a really women. In the men’s event Kevin producing some great throws over the close finish and it looked like, with ten Matthews won by more than a metre past months since the start of the track metres to go that Fran Harris, the from John Donovan followed by Roger Page 12 — February Vetrunner Stewart and Ray Bramwell. In the women’s event the best effort came from SOME FIRST CLASS SPRINTING IN THE 2002 GIFT Kerry Boden, who like the men’s event, by Bryan Thomas won by over a metre, then followed The feature event at the track on Thursday evening December 19 is the annual Janis Baines, Fran Harris and "President's 100m" beginning at 6.30pm. This special event is also known as the Rosemary Parker. ACTVAC "Gift" and has a long and fascinating history. It was a bit livelier at the standing Our "Gift" is a handicapped 100m race in which all runners are given a starting long jump with 12 men and six women position according to their age group. The handicapped starts are determined by taking part. The best jump came from the World Masters Athletics (WMA) Age Standards. The event includes separate Andrew Malone 10 centimetres ahead of races for men and women and may consist of a series of heats, semi finals and a Kevin Matthews with John Donovan a final. It has traditionally been conducted on the Thursday evening immediately further nine centimetres adrift. Age before Christmas. group victories came from M45 Steven The inaugural "Gift" was run in 1992 and was won by Ian Dundas and Margaret Dawes, M50 Roger Stewart, M55 Garry Taylor. It was not held in 1994 because of rain or in 1998 because of program Maher, M60 Robin White, M65 Colin difficulties. Robbie, M70 Dave Mackenzie and M75 The 1999 event was held at the Woden Athletics Track immediately following a Ewen Drummond. For the women Kerry heavy thunderstorm keeping many sprinters away and making the grass track Boden was again the best of the field 17 heavy and slow. centimetres ahead of Maureen who was The 2001 event added extra colour and spectator appeal by all runners wearing only two centimetres ahead of Sue brightly coloured bibs designating their lanes. Bourke, Fran Harris won the W60s. The “Gift" winners have been: Three athletes had a go at the pole, 1992 1993 1995 1996 Colin Robbie and John Donovan for the 1 Ian Dundas M40 1 Robert Barbaro 1 Martin Crowe 1 Robert Barbaro men and Val Chesterton the lone 2 Grahame Taylor M45 2 Michael Rutter 2 Ken Daniels 2 Col Burns 3 Steven Knight M35 3 Don Fraser 3 Roger Stewart 3 Ken Daniels female. 1 Margaret Taylor W40 1 Margaret Taylor 1 Margaret Taylor 1 Margaret Taylor Both Colin and John got over with 2 Jan Erickson W30 2 Sue Bourke 2 Sue Bourke 2 Sue Bourke the bar at two metres, Colin in his 3 Lesley Hamilton W45 3 Vicki Matthews 3 Marlene Reid 3 Angela Reeves second jump and John his third effort. 1997 1999 2000 2001 1 Robert Barbaro M45 1 Vince Craig 1 Ken Telfer 1 Michael Roden With the bar at 2.10 Colin passed and 2 Col Burns M50 2 Ian Dundas 2 Kevin Matthews 2 Robert Barbaro John failed in his three jumps then 3 Ken Daniels M60 3 Bob Banens 3 John Morton 3 Ken Telfer Colin also failed in his three efforts at 1 Lesley Hamilton W50 1 Marlene Reid 1 Maureen Rossiter 1 Margaret Taylor 2.20. Work that one out. Val got over 2 Jill Pearson W40 2 Corrine Tong 2 Kerry Boden 2 Maureen Rossiter 3 Alice Scott W50 3 Bev Breen 3 Vicki Matthews 3 Kerry Boden easily at 1.30, 1.50, 1,55 and 1.60 and 2002 then she left to pursue other events so 1 Robert Barbaro M50 her best was a 1.60. 2 Garry Maher M55 The second distance cum middle 3 Col Burns M55 1 Maureen Rossiter W50 distance was a race over 1000m that 2 Sue Bourke W40 had probably the best turnout of all the 3 Fran Harris W60 events at the meet. The first of four The 100m Gift Handicap was not held in 1994 or 1998 heats was an all women’s affair, with Most wins Maureen Rossiter taking the win ahead 5: Margaret Taylor (1992, 93, 94, 95 and 2001). 3: Robert Barbaro (1993, 94 and 1995). of Kerry Boden and Jill Brown. In this Most places heat was also Rosemary Parker taking 5: Margaret Taylor (5 firsts). part in her first running race since 4: Robert Barbaro (3 firsts and a second). attempting to recover from her illness, 3: Sue Bourke (3 seconds). 2: Col Burns (2 seconds), Ken Daniels (second and third), Ian Dundas (first and third), Michael Rutter well done Rosemary. For the pundits of (second and third) and Ken Telfer (first and third). Kerry Boden (second and third), Lesley Hamilton (first statistics Rosemary ran a 5:03.2. Heat 2 and third), Vicki Matthews (2 thirds), Marlene Reid (first and third) and Maureen Rossiter (first and third). went to George Kibutzky from Nigel Age Groups Coldrick and Kathy Sims. In Heat 3 M45 is the oldest and M30 the youngest age group to win the men's division. M40s have won three times, M30 and M35 twice each. M60 Ken Daniels is the oldest runner to have been placed in our "Gift". Peter Cullen won by at least 50m from W50 is the oldest and W40 the youngest winners of the women's race. W45s have won four and W50 three Ken White and Neil Boden. Heat 4 was times. another of those shoulder to shoulder Age Group Handicaps (modified WMA Age Standards using half metre intervals) that has been happening over the past M30 W30 M35 W35 M40 W40 M45 W45 M50 W50 M55 W55 couple of meets and again Colin Farlow Scr 2.5 2.5 5.5 5.5 8.0 8.5 10.5 11.5 13.5 15.0 was involved, however, this time he M60 W60 M65 W65 M70 W70 M75 W75 16.5 18.5 20.0 22.0 23.5 26.0 27.5 30.0 faced a new adversary in Anthony Jenny Langton, who had the best time Ewen Drummond were age group Perry. As they come up the final for the women in 3:10.3, W35 Claire winners, as was Pam Weiss in the straight it seemed that neither runner Perry, W55 Alice Scott and W60 Fran W60s. was going to give an inch as they went Harris. The last throwing event for 2002 was down to the line and every time The second throw of the meet was a the standing discus with 16 throwers Anthony tried to pick up the pace Colin standing shot with Ray Green and taking part. Ray and Jayne were again replied and in the end there was less Jayne Hardy once again dominating. the ones to beat with Colin Robbie than a body space between the two with However, taking the pair out of the 2.35m behind and Sharon Gibbins Colin home in 2:49.4 to Anthony’s picture, Colin Robbie would have had 3.90m the closest. Other age group 2:50.0. Dale Moore was third some six the best throw with a 9.26 for the men winners were John Donovan in the seconds adrift. and Sharon Gibbins a 9.02 for the M30s, Stephen Dawes M45s, Tom Other age group winners were M45 women. For the men M45 Stephen Geraghty M50s, Robin Whyte M60s and Michael Leahey, M55 Kevin Dawes, M50 Roger Stewart, M60 Robin Ewen Drummond M75s for the men Chamberlain, M60 Bryan Thomas, W30 Whyte, M70 Dave Mackenzie and M75 with Maureen Rossiter W50s, Raylea February Vetrunner — Page 13 Rudov W55s and Pam Weiss W60s for the women. The final two events on the track were the relays. In the 100m Shuttle Relay five teams, including Santa’s Helpers faced the starter. One thing that Anna Farnham, Deslie Kubitzky, Kathy Sims, Elizabeth Thompson and Cathy Montalto found out that it is bad enough jogging round the track in Santa suits, but to try and run quickly is almost impossible. They were the fifth of the five teams that competed in the race up and down the straight, but at least they finished. The winners were Garry Maher, Jim White, Jennifer Krevatin, Sue Bourke and Bryan Thomas who clocked 1:15.3 for their 500m. Less than two seconds behind them were the quintet of Colin Farlow, Ken Eynon, Kevin Matthews, John Donovan and Margaret McSpadden. Third and fourth were the teams of Peter Cullen, Roy Jones, Anthony Perry, Ken White and The Higgins 800m Higgins Memorial Handicap. The placegetters in one of the Jim Sawkins: Roger Stewart, George best Higgins 800m Handicaps seen in the ten years of the event, they were from the Kubitzky, Maureen Rossiter, Carmen left Geoff Sims third. Kevin Chamberlain first, and John Morton second. Carlon and Claire Perry. Standing Discus 100m Gift: Men’s Final The second relay was a Parlauf M30 John Donovan 21.13 Robert Barbaro event but this time there was set M45 Stephen Dawes 20.64 Garry Maher distances with each of the five members M50 Tom Geraghty 22.48 Col Burns M55 Ray Green 32.94 Kevin Matthews of each team running one 400m leg, two M60 Robin Whyte 20.32 Andrew Malone 200m legs and two 100m legs. Kevin M65 Colin Robbie 30.59, Peter Neill 25.41 Roger Stewart Matthews team of Garry Maher, M75 Ewen Drummond 20.7 1000m Anthony Perry, Alice Scott and Geoff W35 Jayne Hardy 33.06 M35 Peter Cullen 3:04.6 W40 Sharon Gibbins 29.16, Margaret Mesher 16.67 Barker won in a canter clocking up a M40 Colin Farlow 2:49.4, Anthony Perry 2:50.0, Dale W50 Maureen Rossiter 15.27, Carmen Carlon 10.19 Moore 2:56.4, Phil White 3:00.1, Ken White 3:13.4, fine 14mins 49sec. Second home were W55 Raylea Rudov 18.33 George Kubitzky 3:24.1, Nigel Coldrick 3:28.7 the purple team of Colin Farlow, W60 Pam Weiss 19.36, Nola de Chazal 13.79. M45 Michael Leahey 3:00.4, Bryce Anderson 3:09.6 Margaret McSpadden, Rod Gilchrist, Mile Race Walk M50 Neil Boden 3:19.7, Jim White 3:28.2, Jim Tucker M40 Lachlan Wilkinson 8:46 3:40.7, Mario Larocca 3:43.8 Wayne Berry and Peter Cullen in 15.32. M50 Geoff Sims 8:31 M55 Kevin Chamberlain 3:20.5, Ken Eynon 3:24.4, Then came the team of Ken Eynon, M60 Robin Whyte 8:37, Terry Munro 11:34, Nigel Jim Sawkins 3:32.0, Rod Gilchrist 3:39.2, Wayne Claire Perry, Kerry Boden, George Crew 17:43 Berry 3:54.3, Robert Parker 3:57.9, Roy Jones 4:16.6, Kubitzky and Jennifer Krevatin with a W60 Val Chesterton 11:18, Nola de Chazal 13:41. Geoff Barker 4:17.6 M60 Bryan Thomas 3:36.9, Terry Munro 4:25.0 15.24. Officially Santa’s Helpers were Mile Fitness Walk M70 Dave Mackenzie 11:13 W30 Jenny Langton 3:10.8 fourth timed at 16 minutes even over W40 Margaret Mesher 15:49 W35 Claire Perry 5:39.6, Denise English 6:20.9 the line. There were some dubious W50 Val Bland 13:20, Denise English 13:37 W40 Kerry Boden 3:58.3, Sue Bourke 4:21.1 running as at least two of them were W55 Monika Short 10:13. W50 Kathy Sims 3:35.8, Maureen Rossiter 3:51.3, Jill Brown 4:05.3, Val Bland 6:45.6 seen by the spectators taking a short cut Standing Triple Jump M30 John Donovan 6.64 W55 Alice Scott 4:26.2, Margaret McSpadden 4:49.6, across the grass, despite remonstrations M40 Kevin Matthews 7.74 Rosemary Parker 5:03.2 the protests of the fifth and six teams M50 Roger Stewart 6.08 W60 Fran Harris 4:10.7. were dismissed as it happened the M65 Ray Bramwell 4.42 Pole Vault M30 John Donovan 2.00 officials were up having a cup of coffee W40 Kerry Boden 6.4 W45 Janis Baines 5.36 M65 Colin Robbie 2.00 when the offences occurred. So the fifth W55 Rosemary Parker 4.35 W60 Val Chesterton 1.60 team of Jim White, Jill Brown, Neil W60 Fran Harris 5.26. Heavy Weight Boden, Robert Barbaro and Bob Parker M45 Stephen Dawes 8.02 were home in 17.05 and the team of Roy M30 Andrew Malone 2.54, John Donovan 2.35 M50 Tom Geraghty 8.92 M40 Kevin Matthews 2.44 M55 Ray Green 14.77 Jones, Ken White, Fran Harris, Roger M45 Stephen Dawes 2.12 M65 Peter Neill 9.32 Stewart and Mario Larocca ran a 17.08. M50 Roger Stewart 2.24, Tom Geraghty 1.93 M75 Ewen Drummond 10.66 W35 Jayne Hardy 14.46 (Equal Australian rec) Standing Shot M55 Garry Maher 1.80 W40 Sharon Gibbins 13.38 (Australian rec) M45 Stephen Dawes 8.15 M60 Robin Whyte 1.91 W55 Raylea Rudov 11.83. M50 Roger Stewart 7.96, Tom Geraghty 7.61 M65 Colin Robbie 2.04, Ray Bramwell 1.8 M55 Ray Green 10.58 M70 Dave Mackenzie 1.82 Two Miles M60 Robin Whyte 7.12 M75 Ewen Drummond 1.50 M40 Colin Farlow 10.50, Dale Moore 11.09, Dave M65 Colin Robbie 9.26 W40 Kerry Boden 2.06, Sue Bourke 1.87 McClelland 11.47, Nigel Coldrick 13.56 Peter Neill 8.71 W50 Maureen Rossiter 1.89 M45 Michael Leahey 10.54, Nick Mesher 12.23 M70 Dave Mackenzie 7.23 W60 Fran Harries 1.77, Val Chesterton 1.54, Nola de M50 Bryce Anderson 12.14, Ken White 12.16, Jim M75 Ewen Drummond 8.37 Chazal 1.19. White 12.41, Ian Colhuquon 12.55, Mario Larocca W35 Jayne Hardy 10.03 100m Gift: Women’s Final 14.02 W40 Sharon Gibbins 9.02, Margaret Mesher 6.81 Maureen Rossiter M55 Jim Sawkins 13.04, Rod Gilchrist 13.23, Geoff W55 Raylea Rudov 8.16 Sue Bourke Barker 15.10 W60 Pam Weiss 7.17 Fran Harris M60 Graeme Small 14.52 Nola De Chazal 4.74. Sharon Gibbins W45 Ann Maree Calnan 15.24 Jennifer Krevatin W55 Margaret McSpadden 16.18, Alice Scott 16.28 Claire Perry Page 14 — February Vetrunner W60 Pam Weiss 17.00 36.03 and at the shot the order was the W65 Anne Young 14.53. same at 11.32, 11.04 and 8.88 100m Shuttle Relay (teams of five): Garry Maher, Jim White, Jennifer Krevatin, Sue respectively. Bourke and Bryan Thomas 1:15.3 Going back to the discus, others to Colin Farlow, Ken Eynon, Kevin Matthews, John perform well included Colin Robbie, Donovan and Margaret McSpadden 1:17.0 Peter Cullen, Roy Jones, Anthony Perry, Ken White Robin Whyte and Tim Gulliver for the and Jim Sawkins 1:20.0 men and shot it was again Colin Robbie, Roger Stewart, George Kubitzky, Maureen Rossiter, Bryan Thomas and Ewen Drummond. Colin Farlow and Claire Perry 1:31.6 The first of this week’s other three Santa's Helpers: Anna Farnham, Deslie Kubitzky, Kathy Sims, Elizabeth Thompson and Cathy Montalto field events as the pole vault with only 1:49.6. John Donovan and Colin Robbie in 5000m Parlauf Relay (teams of five with each action. John in a 1.80 and Colin 2.10 person running 400m, 200m, 200m, 100m, 100m) and when you consider Colin is in the Kevin Matthews, Garry Maher, Anthony Perry, Alice Scott and Geoff Barker 14.49 M65 age bracket it was a pretty good Colin Farlow, Margaret McSpadden, Rod Gilchrist, effort as he only narrowly missed the Wayne Berry and Peter Cullen 15.32 M65 record of 2.20 that Ewen Ken Ey non, Claire Perry, Kerry Boden, George Drummond has held since 1992. Kubitzky and Jennifer Krevatin 15.34 Santa's Helpers: Anna Farnham, Deslie Kubitzky, Next came the long jump, this time Kathy Sims, Elizabeth Thompson and Cathy Montalto with eight competitors in action. Roger 16.00 Stewart was on top with a 4.14 followed Jim White, Jill Brown, Neil Boden, Robert Barbaro and by John Donovan and Rad Leovic. For Bob Parker 17.05 Roy Jones, Ken White, Fran Harris, Roger Stewart Multi-talented. Fran Harris, W60, is the women Jill Pearson was way ahead and Mario Larocca 17.08. without doubt the best all-round athlete at of the other two Jumpers Val vets this season. Chesterton and Nola de Chazal. JANUARY 2 A fairly good competition was As the track and field goes into the developing over at the with second half of the season, three by the time they were in the home two surprise competitors in Ellen Lloyd outstanding performance stand out. straight it got back to that couple of and Jenny Langton. In the end there They came from Robert Barbaro, metres. This was the way it finished was only 10 centimetres in it with Ellen Maureen Rossiter and Colin Farlow. with Colin posting a five second PB of getting on top with a jump of 1.45. The Starting with Robert first in the 60m 2:07.3 and Anthony a 2:08.9. other women in the contest were Jill sprint where he ran a superb 7.4 to beat It will be interesting to get Colin, Pearson with a 1.30 effort. his own M50 record that he held jointly Anthony and John on the track in the For the men John Hunt went in as with Don Fraser and Col Burns. He same race, as I’m sure it will be a the favourite, but although he won the then ran his second outstanding beauty. competition with a 1.45, John Donovan performance in the 200m sprint where At the throws both Jayne Hardy and was only five centimetres behind. The he stopped the clock at 24.7 which was Sharon Gibbins were only a metre plus other two jumpers were Colin Robbie only a mere tenth of a second outside short of their records in the hammer, and Rad Leovic, they both got over at Ken Daniels 1987 M50 mark. I’m sure discus and shot with Jayne throwing the 1.20. that if he can keep injury free and if his hammer to 45.03, her record is 46.45, The early 3000/5000m race saw a form keeps going the way it has been the discus to 38.22, her record is 39.25 surprise leader in Jim White with since the season began last October he and the shot to 10.98, her record is Michael Leahey and Mick Corlis close will get that 200m record. 11.36. Sharon’s performances were in behind. However, Jim’s effort only Maureen Rossiter, like Robert, is the same range as she got the hammer lasted one lap, a pretty good one at that another athlete that has produced some out to 41.52, her record is 43.76, the in just over 80 seconds. Then it was left great results this season. Now she has discus to 32.58, her record is 34.15 and to Michael and Mick who kept this order not only broke Kathy Sims’ W50 800m the shot to 9.54, the record (Trish for three laps then Mick put in a spurt mark, she lowered it by almost five Thomas’) is 10.29. and cleared away. In the end Michael, seconds. Maureen posted a 2:37.9 Jan Davies is another that is who was only doing the 3000, was home against Kathy’s 2:42.03 set earlier in knocking on the door of their own in 10.18 and Mick went on to post a the season. record-breaking performances, 17.11 for the 5000m. Jim, also did the Great performances by these two especially in the hammer. This week she 3000 and was the third runner home athletes and they should be threw a 40.63 with her record at 42.39. behind Les Hurst who hasn’t been seen congratulated for their efforts. Not quite so close in the discus with a around the track for a couple of years, The third athlete that has been throw of 20.55 Jen Burke’s W60 record Jim was the first M50 home. Finishing producing some outstanding is 24.42. Then in the shot Jan got in an well back were the two Graham’s, Burke performances is Colin Farlow. Who 8.12 to Jen’s mark of 9.43. and Small (Graeme), they looked like could forget that wonderful battle he In the men’s competition Bob they were having a good old natter as they ran side by side for all of the seven had with John Morton in the 1500m Banens and Ray Green were streets and a half laps. race that was part of the pentathlon. ahead of the field, but a fair margin An other runner that picked-up an This week’s 800m run was another behind the M50 and M55s records. They age group win was M30 Ian Bradfield, of Colin’s outstanding efforts as he and were the only male competitors at the he was pretty lucky into the bargain, as Anthony Perry broke away from the rest hammer. of the pack. There was only a couple of he finished on the inside of the cones A bit more competition at the discus and wasn’t timed by the officials metres between them as they got the with Attila Spaits joining in the two bell and going down the back straight fortunately he had kept a note of his throws that was conducted at the main time. Others in the shorter event Colin managed to pushed that lead to track. Although they were in different about ten metres. However, as they included, Nigel Coldrick, Ian Colquhoun age groups it is always a contest for the and Pat Stakelum. passed through the 200m to go mark best throw of the meet. In the discus it Anthony started to make up ground and was Ray on 40.17, Bob 38.58, Attila February Vetrunner — Page 15 Only three finished in the women’s W40 Sharon Gibbins 9.54 W50 Val Bland 5.05 race, leading them home was Ann Marie W55 Raylea Rudov 8.79 Calnan followed by Margaret W60 Jan Davies 8.12. McSpadden and Pam Faulks. High Jump In the late 3000m event double age M30 John Donovan 1.40 M60 John Hunt 1.45 group wins went to Jim White and M65 Colin Robbie 1.20 Margaret McSpadden with Mike Breen M70 Rad Leovic 1.20 getting an age group win after running W30 Ellen Lloyd 1.45, Jenny Langton 1.35 after finishing well back in the first W45 Jill Pearson 1.30. race. Colin Farlow recorded the best 3000m (Early event) M40 Ian Bradfield 12:34, Nigel Coldrick 12:45 time in 10.19, a pretty good effort, as it M45 Mike Leahey 10:18, Les Hurst 11:40, Ian wasn’t all that long after that great Colquhoun 12:05, Nick Blackaby 15:28, Mike Breen 800m win. Newcomer Daren McClellan 16:38 M50 Jim White 12:02, Patrick Stakelum 12:56 ran an 11.11 to win the M30 age group, M55 Graham Burke 13:30 as did Bob Parker in the M55s. Bryce M60 Graeme Small 13:30 Anderson was the second runner home W40 Pam Faulks 15:46 in the M40s as was Roy Jones in the W45 Ann Marie Calnan 14:28 W55 Margaret McSpadden 14:44. M55s. 5000m (Early event) The only other female runner in the M40 Mick Corlis 17:11, Roger Pilkington 19:50. race was Lisa Wilson with a pretty 1500m Race Walk smart 12.03 for the distance. M40 Mark Worrall 8:42 The two 5000m events only attracted M60 Robin Whyte 7:54, Terry Munro 10:44, Nigel Top race walker. Robin Whyte is noted Crew 16:12 three runners, Mick Corlis and Roger as a one of the best race walkers in the W60 Val Chesterton 10:14, Nola De Chazal 12:39. Pilkington in the first race and Bryan vets, shows here that walking is not the 1500m Fitness Walk M65 Jim O'Donnell 9:57 Thomas in the later event. only discipline he is good at. The first of the sprints this week was W35 Kaye Dudderidge 10:48 W55 Raine Thompson 12:17. over 60m with the best time coming Stewart, indeed they were only passed from Michael Rutter a tenth of a second in the last 20 metres with Garry turning 60m M30 John Donovan 8.8 ahead of Robert Barbaro’s record to Roger, as he passed him, saying catch me if you can. M40 Michael Rutter 7.3, Vic Hessell 9.1 breaking effort in the M50s. Phil White M45 Phil White 7.9 ran a good 7.9 considering that this was The race walk was over the shorter M50 Robert Barbaro 7.4 (ACT rec), Roger Stewart 1500m distance with the best time for 8.6, Jim White 9.2 only his second run coming back from M55 Garry Maher 8.2 an injury. Others to post good times the vets coming from Robin Whyte from Mark Worrall and Terry Munro and in M60 Michael Roche 9.2 included Garry Maher 8.2, Roger M70 Rad Leovic 10.1 Stewart 8.6, John Donovan 8.8. Both the ladies Val Chesterton won easily W35 Jennifer Krevatin 9.0 W50 Maureen Rossiter 8.8. Michael Roche and Rad Leovic won from Nola de Chazal. their respective age groups the M65s In the fitness walk I had the honour 800m M35 Anthony Perry 2:08.9 and the M70s. Another runner back in of leading the other two home with a 9.57. Second was yet another newcomer M40 Colin Farlow 2:07.3, Richard Faulks 2:17.4, Nigel action after a long break away from vets Coldrick 2:35.8, Roger Pilkington 2:57.0 was Vic Hessell. this week, Kaye Dudderidge 10.48 and M45 Phil White 2:15.7, Mike Leahey 2:25.8, Ken Only two ladies in the short sprint, Raine Thompson 12.07. Smith 2:28.7, George Kubitzky 2:56.0 Hammer M50 Geoff Moore 2:32.4, Jim White 2:49.4, Roger Maureen Rossiter with an 8.8 finished M50 Bob Banens 37.22 Stewart 2:52.0 two tenths ahead of Jennifer Krevatin. M55 Ray Green 39.89 M55 Peter P Davies 2:44.7, Garry Maher 2:54.2, Bob A bit more action in the second W35 Jayne Hardy 45.03 Parker 3:00.2, Roy Jones 3:23.6 W40 Sharon Gibbins 41.52 M60 Bryan Thomas 2:43.8, Terry Munro 3:27.2 sprint of the meet over 200m. The two W55 Raylea Rudov 29.59 W30 Jenny Langton 2:29.7, Ellen Lloyd 3:02.1 who battled out the top positions in the W60 Jan Davies 40.63. W35 Amanda Walker 2:55.3, Jennifer Krevatin 3:46.0 800m were at it again, Colin Farlow in Pole Vault W50 Maureen Rossiter 2:37.9 (ACT rec) 26.3 and Anthony Perry 26.6. However, M30 John Donovan 1.80 W55 Margaret McSpadden 3:42.1 W60 Francis Harris 3:12.6. both had to settle for the minor places M65 Colin Robbie 2.10. Long Jump 200m with both Michael Rutter and Robert M30 John Donovan 3.75 M35 Anthony Perry 26.6 Barbaro over the line equal on 24.7. M40 Vic Hessell 2.94 M40 Michael Rutter 24.7, Colin Farlow 26.3 Other age group bests were M45 Phil M50 Roger Stewart 4.14 M45 Phil White 26.2, Ken Smith 26.3 White 26.2, M55 Garry Maher 26.8 and M65 Colin Robbie 3.67 M50 Robert Barbaro 24.7, Patrick Stakelum 27.7, M70 Rad Leovic 3.37 Roger Stewart 29.6, Jim White 31.3 Michael Roche 33.3. W45 Jill Pearson 4.57 M55 Garry Maher 26.8, Peter P Davies 30.5 In the women’s race Maureen W60 Val Chesterton 2.74, Nola De Chazal 1.88. M60 Michael Roche 33.3 Rossiter posted a 30.0 ahead of Jill Discus W30 Ellen Lloyd 30.5 Pearson 30.2 and Ellen Lloyd 30.5. M30 John Donovan 18.03 W35 Jennifer Krevatin 31.3, Amanda Walker 33.4 M50 Bob Banens 38.58 W45 Jill Pearson 30.2 Jennifer Krevatin and Fran Harris had M55 Ray Green 40.17, Tim Gulliver 22.43 W50 Maureen Rossiter 30.0 wins in their respective age groups of M60 Attila Spaits 36.03, Robin Whyte 22.48 W60 Francis Harris 34.9. W35 and W60. M65 Colin Robbie 34.77 4x100m Relay Staying with the sprints M45 Ken M75 Ewen Drummond 16.15 W45 Jill Pearson, W35 Jayne Hardy, M50 Jim White, W35 Jayne Hardy 38.22 White was the lone competitor in the M55 Garry Maher 57.5. W40 Sharon Gibbins 32.58 W35 Jennifer Krevatin, M55 Peter P Davies, W30 short hurdles and there were three W55 Raylea Rudov 23.54, Raine Thompson 12.20 Jenny Langton, M50 Roger Stewart 57.8. teams in the 4x100m sprint with the W60 Jan Davies 20.55, Nola De Chazal 12.86. M70 Rad Leovic, M50 Patrick Stakelum, W40 Sharon winning time coming from the team of Shot Gibbins, W30 Ellen Lloyd 1:01.9. M50 Bob Banens 11.04 Jill Pearson, Jayne Hardy, Jim White M55 Ray Green 11.32, Peter P Davies 6.86 3000m (Late event) and Garry Maher. Only a whisker M60 Attila Spaits 8.88, Bryan Thomas 8.05, Robin M30 Darren McClellan 11:11 behind came Jennifer Krevatin, Peter Whyte 7.01 M40 Colin Farlow 10:19, Bryce Anderson 11:44 M45 Mike Breen 16:23 Davies, Jenny Langton and Roger M65 Colin Robbie 10.23 M75 Ewen Drummond 7.89 M50 Jim White 12:39 W35 Jayne Hardy 10.98 M55 Bob Parker 14:17, Roy Jones 14:59 W35 Lisa Wilson 12:03 W55 Margaret McSpadden 15:01. Page 16 — February Vetrunner

WALKERS, RUNNERS, TAKE YOUR MARKS . . .

The fun of the Christmas program. The track and field athletes were in festive mood at the track and field meet the Thursday before Christmas. The top picture is the start of the , from the left, Denise English in her first track event, Dave Mackenzie, an unknown junior, Monika Short, another unknown junior, Val Chesterton, Terry Munro and the third of the unknown juniors. Above left Kathy Sims and above right: Elizabeth Thompson shows that there is plenty of spirit when it comes to running for Santa's Helpers.

Above centre: Fran Harris coming up to finish the 1000m race that was held during the Christmas events.

Below: The start of the one of the most unusual events, a two mile race, held at a vets track and field meet, it was over two miles, it was so unusual that Mike Adler had to make a new starting line on the track. . . . SET AND YOUR ON THE WAY February Vetrunner — Page 17 A WET START TO THE HIGGINS 800m MEMORIAL HANDICAP

Lining up in the rain. Cory Collins and Anne Young, front row, both in the W65 age group are just about to get the OK to go in the Higgins 800m event.

A GOOD NIGHT FOR A WALK OR A RUN Above left: Denise English, in her first night at track, coming up for the bell in the Mile Walk with Nola De Chazal.

Above right: Sue Bourke laps a few of the runners in the 1000m at the pre-Christmas program.

UP AND OVER Right: Nick Mesher approaches the water jump in the 3000m Steeplechase.

Far right: Another bar to get over, this time it is in the High Jump with John Donovan gets up and over. Page 18 — February Vetrunner Results continued from Page 15 Despite yet another win a 12 hour race, 5000m (Late event) Robin Whyte still had time, and the M60 Bryan Thomas 21:38. 110m Hurdles strength, to come out and race walk, he M45 Ken Smith 20.1. finished with a credible 10.58 some 11 seconds behind the winner. Raine JANUARY 9 Thompson won the W55s as did Val Maureen Rossiter has done it again! Chesterton the W60s. She has picked up her second record in In the fitness walk I had my usual the space of seven days. Last week it slow start getting well behind after the was the 800m and now she has captured first 400m. However, I did manage to the ACT record for the W50 400m. Well- make up some time in the next four laps done Maureen!! It’s been a good season and posted the best time for the guy’s so far for Maureen, three records but almost a minute behind the winning already and with another 800m on the female Monika Short, card coming up next week there is every I didn’t get a chance to see any of the likelihood she can make it three in a heats in the 100m as I was puffing my row. way around a 2000m race, but from the Fran Harris is another of our results there must have been mighty close heats particularly in the women’s consistent female runners that are The quiet achiever. You never hear forever breaking records. This time it division. Vicki Matthews posted the best much from Mike Worsley however, he is time with a 14sec even from Jill was in the 200m Hurdles where Fran always there or thereabouts. ran an even 41 seconds to break her own Pearson’s 14.2 and Maureen Rossiter’s W60 mark by 1.4sec. Well-done is also 14.4. Jenny Langton, one of our best the call for Fran. middle distance runners, also did the best. 100 and finished in 14.6 with Jennifer Over the weeks before the New Year For the ladies Kathy Sims was out Krevatin and Sharon Gibbins sharing and the two weeks of competition on her own with her 5:45.4 more than a 14.8s. Jill Brown did a 16.2 a tenth afterwards there have been many minute ahead of the next female ahead of Fran Harris but it was only exciting finishes on the track. That finisher Charmaine Knoble. The ever- Fran that won her age group. trend has continued, but with a improving Jill Brown dominated her For the men Michael Rutter’s 11.9 difference. Everyone remembers Colin heat taking it out by more than 60 Farlow fighting for supremacy against metres. Possibly she should step up to a was the best ahead of Andrew Malone John Morton over 1500m and Anthony faster heat that would give her more and Kevin Matthews on 12.3, with Ken Perry over 800m. Well although Colin competition and no doubt result in Smith and Phil White also equal on was again racing this week, there was better times. Meagan Stewart won the 12.9. Col Burns, Michael Roche, Colin no one to challenge him in the 1500m W35s as did Margaret McSpadden the Robbie and Jack Thackray all won age event. He did the toughest way any W55s. groups M55, M60, M65 and M70 athlete has to contend with, running a Mick Worsley was involved in respectively. It was good to see Jack race on his or her own. Right from the another dramatic finish in the 3000m, back at track, he has been carrying a gun he led by example as he took off and with the same scenario as he was hamstring injury in the latter part of was 20m ahead before he was round the chased right down to the finish line by 2002 and has only started back training first bend. And it was like that all the Nigel Coldrick, however, this time Nigel over the last week or two. way as he increased that lead to well got up be a second with his 12.15. Best In the top heat of the 400m Michael over 300m as he crossed the finish line time for the event was posted by Rutter looked the winner even as they in 4:27.0 as he lapped Mick Worsley and Michael Leahey with his 10.24 well were going down the back straight and Phil Coggins. ahead of the second place runner Daren well into the bend and onto the home Indeed there was quite a battle McClellan’s 11.03 followed by Adrian straight he had to dig deep to keep between those two as they went round Rumore’ 11.28. Mario Larocca won the going, but to his credit he did manage to to do that final lap. Mick led the way M50s as did Graham Burke in the say ahead of Kevin Matthews, the fast down the home straight with Phil right M55s. Nice to see Cathy Montalto back finishing Colin Farlow and Phil White. on his heels and with 50 to go it looked to running at track this week and After the win Michael was heard to say like he would pass Mick, but Mick knew although her 12.47 wasn’t one of her to himself, “why do I do it” several exactly where Phil was and just as he best 3000m races it was enough for an times, no doubt thinking why did he go came up to his shoulder he picked up overall best for the ladies and a W50 so quick in that first 200m or so, then the pace in the last few metres to finish first just two seconds ahead of killing himself in the last 100 to keep in 6:05.4 six tenths ahead, not all that Charmaine Knoble. Amanda Walker going. Quite a tight finish between the much between them but a win to Mick took out the W35s and Margaret M50s pair of Geoff Sims and Pat nevertheless, both winning their age McSpadden won the W55s ahead of Stakelum, but Geoff managed to hold groups. Other age group winners were Alice Scott. his form to the line. Other age group M30 David Simpson, M45 Nick Only four men and one woman took wins went to M55 Kevin Chamberlain Blackaby (yes it was our Nick who advantage of running that extra five and M70 Jack Thackray. seems to run all his races at one pace, laps. For the men Nick Mesher was first For the ladies Jenny Langton was his, no matter what the distance is), ahead of Phil Coggins, Terry Levings the quickest but as you already know it M50 Geoff Moore who was three tenths and Nick (I go into everything) was Maureen Rossiter that took the ahead of one of his charges Kevin Blackaby. Anne Young ran a 25.43 honours with her record breaking effort. Chamberlain (he is one of the many almost two minutes adrift of her W65 Jennifer Krevatin, Vicki Matthews and athletes that have joined Geoff’s record. Jill Pearson all won their age groups. coaching group this season) but there In the 2000m race walk Lachlan In the 200m hurdles Phil White won was a rumour going around that Kevin Wilkinson was way out on his own, he the battle of the M45s with Ken Smith had a touch of the flu and wasn’t at his passed me right on the line, but I had by almost two seconds. Of course not two laps to go and he had only one. February Vetrunner — Page 19 forgetting Fran Harris’ ACT record. Quite a busy night at the javelin The final race of the meet was a with 25 throwers trying to get in their medley relay. Two teams lined up at the six efforts, though no doubt some of the start line waiting for the gun to go off. track people had to miss one or two The first two legs of this new type of rounds as they competed elsewhere. It relay have to run over 200m the next leg was “Big Bob Banens” all the way up is over 400m and the final leg is over there knocking on the door of the 50 800m. By the end of the first 200m legs metre mark well ahead of Craig Wisdom Kevin Matthews’ team of Michael and Ray Green the only other two to get Rutter, Jayne Hardy and Jenny the spear out past the 30 metre Langton were ‘streets ahead’ nearly a distance. 100m at the second change. Vicki However, winning their individual Matthews’ team of Jennifer Krevatin, age groups were M30 John Donovan, John Donovan and Colin Farlow M45 Ken Smith, M60 Bryan Thomas, managed to make up a little ground as M65 Ray Bramwell and M75 Ewen they came round for that last baton Drummond. For the women Jayne still change. Jenny took off with a lead of say managing to keep it together, despite a 80m that left Colin a lot of ground to quick dash over to run a 400m leg of the make up. But make up he did and as Medley Relay, and getting in a 36.65, they got the bell for the last lap it was streets ahead of the rest of the pack, obvious that Jenny’s lead wasn’t going indeed her throw would have got the to be enough. I did hear Jenny say to In fine form. The form female athlete at second best place in the men’s Colin before they started that they track this season is Maureen Rossiter, competition. Good efforts were also seen should finish together, and it looked like she has improved since joining Geoff by Sharon Gibbins in a tight they would as Colin at first didn’t take Moore's (endurance) and Roger competition in the W40s her 22.32 was the option to fly past Jenny and then Stewart's (sprints) training groups. just ahead of Rosemary Clarke 21.74 did past her but gave her every considering it was less than a metre off and Vicki Matthews 21.55. The W60s opportunity to make a go of it, but it her W35 Australian record also had a close finish with Jan Davies wasn’t to be and Colin crossed the line For the other four ladies in the winning by 30 centimetres from Fran some two and a half seconds in front. competition Sharon Gibbins came up Harris’ 20.54. Mary Wahren was In the field events yet another record with her usual very reliable efforts, once literally out on her own in the W65s, she came from Jayne Hardy, and it came again less than a metre of her was the only competitor and threw a from an unusual source. While Australian record. Age group wins came 19.11. competing in the first throwing event of from Raylea Rudov W55, Jan Davies The first of the jumps, the triple saw the night way down in what I would call W60 and Mary Wahren W65. John Donovan compete in yet another “that tremendously lonely lower field”. Back up at the main stadium it was event and another age group win, his No one every goes there but the the discus at the scoreboard end and the best effort was 9.17, also the best of the competitors, but I do believe that now javelin at the other end. Pretty good other three in the jump. Nick Blackaby and again they get an official down fields as well with 22 in the discus and took the M45s, Ray Bramwell the M65s there. Getting back to Jayne’s record, 25 at the javelin. and Rosemary Clarke the W40s, this I did you know that she holds every Starting with the discus, it was good believe is her pet event, she jumped to record bar two in the throws for the to see a couple of new faces joining in, 8.57m. W30s and W35s. The two that she they were Tom Geraghty, Attila Spaits, Once again a couple of new faces in hasn’t got are the W30 Hammer held by Phil Toomey, Kevin Chamberlain, the high jump, David Simpson and Delia Quigley and the W30 Heavy Quentin Anthony, Rosemary Clarke (all Jenny Langton, though this was Jenny’s Weight also held by Delia Quigley, and the way from Albury), Raine Thompson second effort at this event she jumped a looking at her W35 efforts in those two and Val Bland, all very well-known club best of 1.35 both weeks. Surprise, disciplines, and not taking anything members but not regulars at this surprise, John Donovan had to settle for away from Delia’s marks, it would discipline, though Raine has included it a second place as David Simpson got appear that Jayne moved up an age in her repertoire of late. over the bar at 1.51 beating John by group before she had the chance to It was business as usual at the top three centimetres. Indeed David’s effort break them. Anyway it was at the heavy end of the big throws, Ray Green 40.41, was the best of the night well ahead of weight that Jayne captured another Bob Banens 36.74, though some good the high jump guru John Hunt who, record, dubious it may be, but a record efforts were also noted from Attila, although winning the M60s, was well all the same. The record came in the Quentin and Colin Robbie. John below par. Kevin Matthews and Ken first four of her six throws, they were Donovan M30 and Craig Wisdom M40 Smith both got over at 1.48 winning sprayed all over the place but none of had age group wins. For the women their respective age groups M40 and them within the sector lines. Though it Jayne must have got her mind back on M45. Phil Toomey won the M55s and is believed that one of those four efforts the job as she came up with the best Colin Robbie the M65s. may have landed just inside the tape heave in the competition a 38.06, 3000m but Jayne so disgusted with herself Sharon was the only other thrower to M30 Darren McClellan 11:03 walked out from the front of the circle. get over 30m with a 33.11. Of the rest to M40 Adrian Rumore 11:28, Bryce Anderson 11:45, Nigel Coldrick 12:15, Roger Pilkington 12:43 Though it was never measured, it was get in throws over the 20 metre mark M45 Mike Leahey 10:24, Les Hurst 11:19, Ian believed to be a big won to and maybe it included Raylea Rudov, Rosemary Colquhoun 11:48 could have been a record within a Clarke, Trish Thomas and Jan Davies. M50 Mario Larocca 13:03 M55 Graham Burke 11:39, Rod Gilchrist 12:29, Geoff record. But no one will ever know how Our record breaking 400m runner Barker 13:55, Bob Parker 14:11, Will Foster 14:49, far out it went. However, with her two Maureen Rossiter even had the time to Phillip Toomey 16:08 remaining throws Jayne got in best for get in a good enough throw to win the M60 Mike Worsley 12:16, Graeme Small 13:17 the competition of 13.59 not bad W50 age group. W35 Amanda Walker 13:01 W50 Cathy Montalto 12:47, Charmaine Knobel 14:49 Page 20 — February Vetrunner W55 Margaret McSpadden 14:45, Alice Scott 15:23. M55 Geoff Barker 19:57 (7sec) track, not a good omen for exerting Joint second 5000m yourself. This was on my mind as I M35 Phil Coggins 21:33 W50 C’maine Knobel 20:24 (12sec) M40 Nick Mesher 20:08 W35 Gabrielle Brown 20:48 (48sec) looked across to the start area three M45 Nick Blackaby 26:36 M55 Will Foster 20:50 (14sec) minutes before the scheduled time of the M50 Terry Levings 23:06 W55 M McSpadden 20:56 (34sec) 3000/5000m event, there was hardly W40 Pam Faulks 21:09 (51sec) W65 Anne Young 25:43. anyone there and we would have been 2000m Walk M45 Nick Blackaby 21:30 (53sec). M40 Lachlan Wilkinson 10:49, Mark Worrall 12:11 Heavy Weight lucky to break into double figures. Then M60 Robin Whyte 10:58, Terry Munro 14:21, Nigel M50 Bob Banens 15.11, Tom Geraghty 8.52 all of a sudden another 30 runners came Crew 22:00 M55 Ray Green 14.08 from nowhere as the minutes ticked M65 Peter Neill 9.08 W55 Raine Thompson 16:05 down to that 6pm start. As the gun went W60 Val Chesterton 13:56. M75 Ewen Drummond 9.62 2000m Fitness Walk W35 Jayne Hardy 13.59 off and the runners past the finish area M50 Neil Boden 16:41 W40 Sharon Gibbins 12.70 for the first time I counted 27 of them M65 Jim O'Donnell 13:50 W55 Raylea Rudov 12.33 that were either running the seven and W60 Jan Davies 15.14 M70 Dave Mackenzie 13:59 a half laps or going on to do the extra W40 Kerry Boden 16:27 W65 Mary Wahren 8.82. W50 Val Bland 16:20 High Jump five laps in the longer race. W55 Monika Short 12:52. M30 David Simpson 1.51, John Donovan 1.48 Coming round for the second lap 100m M40 Kevin Matthews 1.48 Mick Corlis was leading from Michael M45 Ken Smith 1.48, Phil White 1.40 M30 Andrew Malone 12.3, John Donovan 14.2 Leahey and as I looked up the main M40 Michael Rutter 11.9, Kevin Matthews 12.3 M55 Phillip Toomey 1.25 M45 Ken Smith 12.9, Phil White 12.9, Roger Stewart M60 John Hunt 1.40 straight I saw the first casualty of the 14.1, Nick Blackaby 17.4 M65 Colin Robbie 1.25 race, as Dale Moore, who pulled up lame M55 Colin Burns 13.6, Alan Norden 15.0 M65 Ray Bramwell 1.10 in a race a couple of weeks ago, had to W30 Jenny Langton 1.35. M60 Michael Roche 15.3 withdraw, leaving a field of 25 to sweat M65 Colin Robbie 15.0 Discus M70 Jack Thackray 14.7 M30 John Donovan 20.71 it out. The second casualty was Amanda W30 Jenny Langton 14.6 M40 Craig Wisdom 24.11 Ruffin in her first run at the track for a W35 Jennifer Krevatin 14.8 M50 Bob Banens 36.74, Tom Geraghty 21.91 couple of years, as it seemed like the M55 Ray Green 40.41, Phillip Toomey 21.55, Kevin W40 Vicki Matthews 14.0, Sharon Gibbins 14.8 heat got to her and she had to pull out W45 Jill Pearson 14.2 Chamberlain 16.63 W50 Maureen Rossiter 14.4, Jill Brown 16.2 M60 Attila Spaits 36.91 In the final three laps of the race W60 Francis Harris 16.3. M65 Colin Robbie 34.41, Peter Neill 24.84, Ray Michael took over the lead and it wasn’t 1500m Bramwell 17.87 long before he established at 20m lead. M70 Quentin Anthony 32.50 M30 David Simpson 6:23.7, Andrew Malone 7:16.1 However, at this stage Mick was still M35 Phil Coggins 6:06.0 W35 Jayne Hardy 38.06 M40 Colin Farlow 4:27.7, Craig Wisdom 5:13.5, Bryce W40 Sharon Gibbins 33.11, Rosemary Clarke 21.94 running pretty good despite having ran Anderson 5:13.8, Roger Pilkington 5:18.8, Nick W50 Maureen Rossiter 15.79, Val Bland 14.67, in the Hobart Cadbury’s Marathon the Mesher 5:38.1 Carmen Carlon 13.06 W55 Raylea Rudov 22.42, Trish Thomas 20.46, Raine previous Sunday. He came tenth overall M45 Nick Blackaby 7:51.1 with a time of 3hrs 1min, fortunately for M50 Geoff Moore 5:10.0, Roger Stewart 6:42.7 Thompson 13.30 M55 Kevin Chamberlain 5:10.3, Rod Gilchrist 5:54.7, W60 Jan Davies 20.21. the 200 or so runners in the race it Geoff Barker 6:42.1, Will Foster 7:21.4 Javelin started at 6am and it was just as well as M60 Mike Worsley 6:05.4, Terry Munro 6:53.4 M30 John Donovan 22.84 the temperature went up to 30 before W35 Megan Stewart 7:27.1 M40 Craig Wisdom 35.76, Roger Pilkington 24.81 W50 Kathy Sims 5:45.4, Charmaine Knobel 6:52.0 Jill M45 Ken Smith 24.73 mid-day. The winner was Colin Oliver Brown 6:53.0, Val Bland 10:28.9 M50 Bob Banens 47.40, Roger Stewart 23.14, Tom in 2:33.44. Lisa Wilson, another of our W55 Margaret McSpadden 7:16.7. Geraghty 21.74 club runners was also in the event, and 400m M55 Ray Green 33.01, Phillip Toomey 23.83, Roy Jones 23.51 it was her debut run over the 42.2km. M40 Michael Rutter 56.8, Kevin Matthews 58.2, Colin And she did pretty well too taking third Farlow 58.4, Richard Faulks 61.6, Craig Wisdom 65.3, M60 Bryan Thomas 29.27, Robin Whyte 23.17 Roger Pilkington 73.6 M65 Ray Bramwell 19.53 overall in the women’s race with a time M45 Phil White 58.6, Ken Smith 61.0, Nick Blackaby M75 Ewen Drummond 20.27 of 3:28.0 and not all that far behind the W35 Jayne Hardy 36.65 96.0 first two placegetters Janet Urcher M50 Geoff Sims 58.8, Patrick Stakelum 60.0, Roger W40 Sharon Gibbins 22.32, Rosemary Clarke 21.74, Stewart 65.2, Greg Stretton 68.8 Vicki Matthews 21.55 3:21.16 with Jacqui Gray second in M55 Kevin Chamberlain 65.5, Alan Norden 88.8, Will W45 Jill Pearson 15.29 3:25.13. Foster 90.8, Geoff Barker 93.7 W50 Maureen Rossiter 13.31, Carmen Carlon 8.11 Getting back to the two races that M70 Jack Thackray 73.3 W55 Raylea Rudov 20.25 W30 Jenny Langton 64.5, Cecilia Shlegel 77.4 W60 Jan Davies 20.84, Francis Harris 20.54 started the week’s track events. W35 Jennifer Krevatin 74.8, Amanda Walker 77.2 W65 Mary Wahren 19.11. As most of us predicted Michael was W40 Vicki Matthews 72.5, Pam Faulks 96.2 Triple Jump only doing the shorter 3000m and as he W45 Jill Pearson 69.3 M30 John Donovan 9.17 W50 Maureen Rossiter 66.2 (ACT rec), Jill Brown M45 Nick Blackaby 7.05 came around the bend into the final 81.9, Charmaine Knobel 84.5. M65 Ray Bramwell 7.20 straight he moved out to the finishing W40 Rosemary Clarke 8.57. lane and crossed the line in a pretty 200m Hurdles M45 Phil White 30.9, Ken Smith 32.2 good 10.09 in the hot conditions. Mick W60 Francis Harris 41.3 (ACT rec). JANUARY 16 also ran the shorter distance and he Medley Relay What a great evening it was for finished in 10.22, still a pretty good time W40 Vicki Matthews (200m ran), W35 Jennifer Colin Ritchie. He leapt to an M65 record after the energy draining three hour run Krevatin (200m), M30 John Donov an (400m), M40 in the pole vault and another in the long in the marathon. Third across the line Colin Farlow (800m) 4:40.3. jump. Colin got off to an unbelievable M40 Kevin Matthews (200m), M40 Michael Rutter in the 3000m was Bryce Anderson in (200m), W35 Jayne Hardy (400m), W30 Jenny start with a 2.22m in the pole vault and 11.20 in a final home straight battle Langton (800m) 4:42.5. even had a go at the higher distance of with Dave McClelland who was a second 4000m Turkey Run Perf (off estimate) 2.29 and although he was mighty close behind Bryce. Other age group winners M50 Trevor Jacobs 14:26 (14sec) it just wasn’t to be and he would have to were M55 Kevin O’Keeffe, M55 Rod M40 Richard Faulks 15:43 (57sec) accept that record of 2.22. At this, the Gilchrist, M60 Mike Worsley, and M65 M55 Graham Burke 15:45 (7sec) first of the three jumps on card, he Joint second Peter Trotter. Mike Worsley was again M50 Jim White 16:48 (12sec) wasn’t aware of the better things to in a do or die battle to get to the finish M60 Bryan Thomas 17:26 (6sec) come. And come they did line first as he did three times the The winner With the meet starting at 6pm, it M50 Pat Stakelum 17:55 (75sec) previous week, this time it was Rod M60 Mike Worsley 17:56 (51sec) was still very warm and that pall of M50 Mario Larocca 18:03 (27sec) smoke from the Brindabella bush fires M55 Roy Jones 18:57 (58sec) seemed to hang over one side of the February Vetrunner — Page 21 Gilchrist that made the challenge and four W50s and one W55. Of that lot 9.87 to keep in from of Peter Neill’s 8.99 although both were timed at 12.42 Mike Jenny Langton once again was the queen and Robert Kennelly’s 8.59. M70 John got the judges verdict. of the middle distance with a 2:25.0e. Burns and M75 Ewen Drummond also For the five ladies that ran the 3000m My, hasn’t that young lady got a beautiful won their respective age groups. For the race, we welcomed Miriam McCarthy style. Maureen Rossiter was second with women Raylea Rudov got in a 9.08 well who joined us to a rare appearance at the 2:39.7 and Vicki Matthews third on ahead of Jan Davies’ 8.30, Jen Bourke’s vets Thursday night meets. It was only a 23:14.0. For the others Amanda Walker 8.16 and Trish Thomas’ 8.04. Delia few years ago that Miriam was the Queen won the W35s, and Margaret McSpadden Quigley took out the W40s and Val Bland of the track as she did some excellent the W55s. the W50s. times the race walking events. Miriam is Only two takers in the 400m hurdles Hammer M50 Bob Banens 40.96, Robert Kennelly 20.77 in serious training for the Canberra with Ken Smith home in 1:09.1 and M55 Ray Green 39.19 Marathon in April, and thought a good hit Roger Stewart in 1:27.0. Bryan Thomas M60 Bryan Thomas 21.73 out would give her an indication to how was the only runner in the 300m hurdles M65 Peter Neill 25.51 M75 Ewen Drummond 24.08 she was going. For the record Miriam was and he finished in 1:00.9. W35 Jayne Hardy 45.38 the first female home in 12.22, from The first of the relays this week was W40 Delia Quigley 23.19 W55 Raylea Rudov 30.26, Trish Thomas 27.03 Margaret McSpadden and Pam Faulks. the 4x200m. With no records were broken W60 Jan Davies 38.73, Jenny Bourke 25.61, Nola De Claire Perry won the W35s and Alice this week, it was a North v South event Chazal 15.73. Scott was second in the W55s. with the North quartet Mike Aylott, John Javelin M30 John Donovan 27.06 Of the 28 runners that started the race Donovan, Colin Farlow and Michael M40 Craig Wisdom 34.59 only four went on to run the 5000m. First Ruttter winning in 1:54.8, the South team M50 Bob Banens 48.93, Roger Stewart 25.40 home was Nick Mesher desperately close could only manage third spot with a M55 Ray Green 37.11, Roy Jones 24.13, Kevin Chamberlain 24.07, Phillip Toomey 23.96 to breaking the 12 minute mark as he has 2:22.6 behind the number two North M60 Robin Whyte 23.89 been over the past few meets, this time he team’s 1:57.2. M75 Ewen Drummond 19.92 was a minute outside that mark. Roger W35 Jayne Hardy 35.05, Megan Stewart 15.04 The second relay was another 5000m W40 Margaret Mesher 11.52 Pilkington was next home in 20.43, Phil Parlauf event but with fixed legs which W50 Val Bland 12.93, Carmen Carlon 8.36 Coggins ran a 21.16 and Thomas Lane a made in more of a race. All five runners W55 Raylea Rudov 20.03, Trish Thomas 16.92 22.40. W60 Jenny Bourke 22.97, Jan Davies 20.95. in each team had to run a 400m, 300m, Shot The 60m sprints produced the usual 200m and a 100m. And as the saying goes M50 Bob Banens 11.76, Robert Kennelly 8.59 very close finishes in most of the heats “it’s not all over till the fat lady sings”. M55 Ray Green 11.42, Phillip Toomey 7.68 M65 Colin Robbie 9.87, Peter Neill 8.99 and at the end we had Ken Telfer and The team that ran first for the first two M70 John Burns 6.35 Michael Rutter on 7.2, Steve Jones 7.3 laps were overtaken by both of the other M75 Ewen Drummond 8.34 and Andrew Malone 7.5. In the higher teams before the end of the 400m legs W35 Jayne Hardy 10.30 W40 Delia Quigley 7.19, Margaret Mesher 6.98 age groups Ian Lavering ran an 8.2, Garry were finished, in the 300m legs the team W50 Val Bland 6.03, Maureen Rossiter 5.93, Carmen Maher 8.3. of Margaret McSpadden, Craig Wisdom, Carlon 4.70 Peter Cullen, Mike Aylott and Colin W55 Raylea Rudov 9.08, Trish Thomas 8.04 For the women both Vicki Matthews W60 Jan Davies 8.30, Jenny Bourke 8.16, Nola De and Jill Pearson were on 8.8 just ahead of Farlow proved themselves too good for Chazal 4.77 Ellen Lloyd and Maureen Rossiter on 8.9. the rest and not only did they go onto win Pole Vault they did it in a best recorded time of M30 John Donovan 1.80 Also winning age groups were M45 Ken M65 Colin Robbie 2.22 (ACT rec). Smith, M60 Michael Roche, M70 John 14.46. Triple Jump Burns, W35 Claire Perry and W45 Bev In the first of the three throws this M30 John Donovan 9.18 Breen. week, the hammer, the big heaves as M40 Michael Rutter 12.13 M65 Colin Robbie 8.59 (ACT rec) The number of runners in the 800m usual from Bob Banens, Ray Green and W45 Jill Pearson 8.91. was surprising and I don’t think we have Jayne Hardy, however, putting them aside Long Jump the other big heaves came from Peter M30 Andrew Malone 5.24, John Donovan 4.14 had a field of this size, 37 men and 12 M40 Michael Rutter 5.29, Craig Wisdom 4.74 women, for years. When I tell you Colin Neill from Ewen Drummond and Bryan M45 Ken Smith 4.64 Farlow was in the field you would be Thomas. Then for the women we M60 John Hunt 3.70 right in saying that he produced the best welcomed back Delia Quigley who has W45 Jill Pearson 4.44. 3000m time of 2:08.8, not his best but an been all over Australia with her police M40 Mick Corlis 10:22, Bryce Anderson 11:20, Dave excellent run nevertheless. Anthony Perry work, she threw a 23.19 but with the lack McClelland 11:21, Nigel Coldrick 12:19 of competition she was well behind Jan M45 Mike Leahey 10:09, Ian Colquhoun 11:46, had the next best time with a 2:10.4 and George Kubitzky 13:30 third was Richard Faulks’ 2:14.2. Other Davies, Raylea Rudov, Trish Thomas and M50 Kevin O'Keeffe 11:36, Jim White 11:53, Mario age group winners were M45 Michael Jen Bourke. Larocca 13:04 M55 Rod Gilchrist 12:42, Ken Eynon 13:03, Dan Leahey, M50 Pat Stakelum, M55 Kevin Following the same set of rule the Dawes 13:08, Geoff Barker 14:00, Will Foster 14:50 Chamberlain, M60 Bryan Thomas and report for the javelin had Craig Wisdom M60 Mike Worsley 12:42 M65 Peter Trotter who was involved in a ahead of John Donovan, Roger Stewart, M65 Peter Trotter 13:33 W35 Claire Perry 18:48 dash for the line with none other than Kevin Chamberlain, Phil Toomey, Robin W40 Pam Faulks 15:30 Mike Worsley with Mike taking the Whyte, and Ewen Drummond. For the W45 Miriam Mccarthy 12:22 honours by a mere .7 of a second. For the women Jen Bourke was in front of Jan W55 Margaret McSpadden 15:01, Alice Scott 16:05. 5000m record the M40s had nine runners, M45s Davies, Raylea Rudov, Trish Thomas, M35 Phil Coggins 21:16 five, M50s eight, M55s nine and the Megan Stewart, Val Bland, Margaret M40 Nick Mesher 20:01, Roger Pilkington 20:43 M60s three. Mesher and Val Bland. M45 Thomas Lane 22:40. 1500m Race Walk (Turkey event) For the 12 women who ran there In a similar vein at the shot Colin M40 Lachlan Wilkinson 7:50 (time difference 10sec) were two W30s, four W35s, one W40, Robbie, after his two records, got in a M60 Robin Whyte 7:58 (2sec) Terry Munro 10:42 (3sec) W35 Lisa Wilson 8:26 (94sec) W55 Raine Thompson 11:48 (20sec) Page 22 — February Vetrunner

1500m Fitness Walk W35 Claire Perry 12 11.4 0 M50 Bob Banens 28 28 0 Y M40 Mike Aylott 10:37 (6sec) W45 Jill Pearson 29 11.4 0 M55 Garry Maher 28 28 0 Y M50 Mario Larocca 10:03 (117sec), Neil Boden 11:48 W45 Bev Breen 22 12.1 15 M50 Chris Vincent 24 24 0 Y (17sec) M35 Stephen Jones 35 10.7 30 M55 Peter P Davies 16 16 0 Y M55 Phillip Toomey 11:50 (56sec) M45 Ken Smith 1 11.3 0 M50 Tom Geraghty 12 12 0 Y M70 Dave Mackenzie 10:13 (83sec) W30 Jenny Langton 29 11.5 17 M30 Dion Devow 0 0 0 F W40 Kerry Boden 11:27 (33sec), Margaret Mesher W40 Vicki Matthews 32 11.5 16 M40 Bryce Anderson 0 0 0 Y 13:35 (22sec) M40 Peter Manley 0 0 0 Y W50 Val Bland 13:02 (160sec) M40 Dave McClelland 0 0 0 Y Daniels Sprint Handicap Pointscores W55 Monika Short 9:24 (28sec), Alice Scott 11:12 M45 Ken Smith 0 0 0 X (85sec). Age Name Gross Net Low Elig M45 Stephen Knight 0 0 0 Y M70 John Burns 122 122 21 Y 60m W50 Jill Brown 121 121 21 Y M55 Alan Norden 119 119 16 Y M30 Andrew Malone 7.5, John Donovan 8.6 W35 Jennifer Krevatin 103 103 24 Y M40 Kevin Matthews 111 111 18 Y M35 Ken Telfer 7.2, Stephen Jones 7.3 W50 Maureen Rossiter 97 97 15 Y M50 Jim White 92 92 16 Y M40 Michael Rutter 7.2, Kevin Matthews 7.7 W40 Vicki Matthews 79 79 13 Y M50 Roger Stewart 88 88 11 Y M45 Ken Smith 7.9, Stephen Knight 8.5 W60 Francis Harris 69 69 16 Y M45 Stephen Dawes 87 87 0 Y M50 Ian Lavering 8.2, Roger Stewart 8.8, Jim White W45 Bev Breen 63 63 15 Y M50 Robert Barbaro 75 75 22 Y 9.2 W40 Sharon Gibbins 42 42 13 Y M30 John Donovan 67 67 0 Y M55 Garry Maher 8.3, Alan Norden 9.2 W65 Cory Collins 27 27 10 Y M30 Craig Edwards 61 61 12 Y M60 Michael Roche 9.2 W45 Jill Pearson 20 20 0 Y M65 Ray Bramwell 52 52 25 Y M70 John Burns 9.9 W30 Ellen Lloyd 19 19 19 Y M35 Ken Telfer 51 51 22 Y W30 Ellen Lloyd 8.9 W30 Jenny Langton 17 17 17 Y M40 Michael Rutter 43 43 0 Y W35 Claire Perry 11.3 W45 Janis Baines 12 12 0 Y M60 Michael Roche 41 41 0 Y W40 Vicki Matthews 8.8 W35 Jenny Pluck 0 0 0 Y M40 Dale Moore 35 35 17 Y W45 Jill Pearson 8.8 W35 Claire Perry 0 0 0 1 M35 Stephen Jones 30 30 0 Y W45 Bev Breen 9.9 W40 Sue Bourke 0 0 0 Y M70 Otmar Dorfer 30 30 0 Y W50 Maureen Rossiter 8.9, Jill Brown 10.1. W45 Ann Marie Calnan 0 0 0 Y M30 Andrew Malone 29 29 0 Y W55 Sue Skermer 0 0 0 F 800m M45 Nick Blackaby 29 29 14 Y W60 Val Chesterton 0 0 0 Y M35 Anthony Perry 2:10.4, Peter Cullen 2:22.4 M40 Colin Farlow 2:08.8, Richard Faulks 2:14.2, Kevin Matthews 2:21.9, Bryce Anderson 2:26.7, Craig Wisdom 2:28.6, Nick Mesher 2:31.9, Nigel Coldrick SECRETARY'S REPORT 2:36.2, Roger Pilkington 2:37.0, Mike Aylott 2:45.8 On Monday, January 13, ACTVAC committee held another monthly meeting. It M45 Mike Leahey 2:23.8, Ken White 2:28.9, Neville was held in the room to the left as you walk in to the West Deakin Hellenic Madden 2:30.5, George Kubitzky 2:33.0, Thomas Bowling Club. The evening was mild, but inside the heat that had been retained Lane 2:49.6 by the bricks during the day, was dispersed to the committee, causing our flesh to M50 Patrick Stakelum 2:21.2, Geoff Sims 2:27.4, Geoff Moore 2:30.3, Greg Stretton 2:31.1, Ian stick to the dark brown vinyl chairs. Lavering 2:33.9, Jim White 2:43.3, Kevin O'Keeffe Discussion was warm, but I wouldn't say it was heated. 2:45.2, Roger Stewart 2:58.1 ACTVAC won't be running the Tuggeranong Fun Run, as it is too close to the M55 Kevin Chamberlain 2:22.4, Garry Maher 2:40.5, Canberra Centre fun run. The sprint handicap calculations will be published Ken Eynon 2:46.9, Rod Gilchrist 2:55.5, Bob Parker soon. 3:05.2, Roy Jones 3:18.4, Geoff Barker 3:18.9, Alan We are asking for a clever slogan to help with ACTVAC advertising. Some of Norden 3:38.6, Phillip Toomey 3:40.6 M60 Bryan Thomas 2:41.4, Mike Worsley 3:04.0, the people who run events will be writing up guidelines to help with future Terry Munro 3:27.6 events. Insurance issues continue to be a major agenda item, as there are still M65 Peter Trotter 3:04.7 points of clarification. W30 Jenny Langton 2:25.0, Cecilia Shlegel 2:50.9 The Australia Day triathlon is being run on the Molonglo Reach course, as is W35 Amanda Walker 2:53.7, Lisa Wilson 3:00.6, the handicap. Other arrangements may need to be made. Check before you go. Megan Stewart 3:22.4, Claire Perry 4:35.3 W40 Vicki Matthews 3:14.0 There will also be a trial of using the bar code scanner, at the February W50 Maureen Rossiter 2:39.7, Jill Brown 3:09.9, Val Handicap at North Curtin, so don't forget to bring your cards. Bland 5:12.5, Carmen Carlon 5:39.3 The AGM has been set for Thursday, May 22. Constitutional amendments will W55 Margaret McSpadden 3:43.6. be voted upon. 400m Hurdles We have a written set of standing orders to use at our general meetings M45 Ken Smith 1:09.1 ACTVAC Key Results Schedule will be submitted to ACT Sport and Recreation. M50 Roger Stewart 1:27.0 On February 23, ACTAA will be holding relays. ACTVAC teams will have the 300m Hurdles chance to establish age-based records in the 4x1500m, and possibly break some in M60 Bryan Thomas 1:00.9 the 4x100m, and 4x400m. Geoff Moore is coordinating. 4x200m Relay North No 1: M40 Mike Aylott, M30 John Donovan, Also discussed was the issue of under 30s and non-members. These people M40 Colin Farlow, M40 Michael Rutter 1:54.8. should not be on the competition field. A prior arrangement has been made with North No: W40 Vicki Matthews, M55 Ken Eynon, M50 the ACT Walking Club. Insurance and risk management are the issues here. Keep Geoff Sims, M40 Kevin Matthews 1:57.2 well. SHARON South No 1: W45 Bev Breen, W35 Claire Perry, M50 Jim White, M55 Garry Maher 2:22.6. 5000m Parlauf Relay W55 Margaret McSpadden, M40 Craig Wisdom, M35 PUERTO RICO WORLD MASTERS (formally WAVA) Peter Cullen, M40 Mike Aylott, M40 Colin Farlow 14:46 (best record time for this relay). TRACK AND FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS W30 Jenny Langton, M55 Geoff Barker, M45 George World Masters Athletics is holding it's next championships in Puerto Rico, Kubitzky, M50 Jim White, M50 Trevor Jacobs 14:58, from July 1 to July 13. There are no qualifying standards, as long as you have M60 Bryan Thomas, M50 Mario Larocca, M55 Ken Eynon, M50 Patrick Stakelum, M55 Garry Maher entered on time, and are aged 35 and over for females, and 40 and over for 15:13. male competitors. 100m Daniels Handicap The championships allow you to compete with athletes from other countries, Age Grp Perf Pts and have a great time as well. W50 Jill Brown 9 11.1 28 M60 Michael Roche 25 11.1 27 The last championships in Brisbane attracted over 5000 entries of all W50 Maureen Rossiter 28 11.2 23 standards. M70 John Burns 20 11.2 22 Puerto Rico entry forms are due to our national entries clerk by February 28 to W30 Ellen Lloyd 27 11.3 19 M30 Andrew Malone 42 11.0 29 be processed correctly. M30 John Donovan 29 11.1 27 Entry forms are available from Sharon Gibbins phone 62910047. M40 Michael Rutter 45 11.1 25 If you think it's too far to go, Oceania is holding it's Championships in October M55 Alan Norden 25 11.2 22 M50 Jim White 24 11.2 20 2004 in the Cook Islands. M50 Roger Stewart 30 11.2 24 February Vetrunner — Page 23

WHEN THE COTTER GROUP DECIDED TO MOVE TO FRASER . . . Annual celebrations. The group of fitness gurus that takes part in the Cotter runs every Saturday morning decided to have a Christmas party and instead of having it out at the Cotter where they have all those marvelous breakfasts, they decided to have it at Elizabeth Thompson's' place at Fraser. Here is what happened on that hot evening. Top left: Brenda Day after being presented with her award for demonstrating great courage and good humour during her long recovery from surgery. Top Right: Barry Seedsman, who did that long hike from the Namadgi National Park Visitors Centre, that took him right the way down into Victoria, however, because of bad weather he had to cut his journey shorter than hoped.

. . . TO PARTY ON TO WELL AFTER THE SUN WENT DOWN And more of the annual awards went to. Above, Anna Farnham won the prestigious award for the best fall seen during the past 12 months. Left, the order of the boot, or rather "The Golden Boot Award" went to Rod Gilchrist, mainly for his effort of clearing away all the blackberry bushes as he ran the Cotter on most of the Saturday mornings during the past 12 months. All these Cotter Awards were presented by Deslie Kubitzky, the current Miss Cotter, in fact she has been the only one, on instructions of the King of the Cotter, the Queen didn't get a say in the matter.

Page 24 — February Vetrunner The older I get, the faster I used to very impressive indeed for she was very run, the higher I could jump, the pregnant with her third child at the further I could throw or leap. THE WAY WE time. Don Fraser broke the ACT M50 BRYAN THOMAS continues his long and triple jump records by leaping column taking a look at what the WERE . . . 5.43 and 11.93m respectively. club and its members were doing 20 26 participated in the 27th Monthly years ago or even ten years ago." 8.32; John Brikcius M50 long jump 4.77, Throwing Handicap (shot and javelin). 20 YEARS AGO (February 1983). 100m 13.7 and high jump 1.35; Jo Al Mallory was the winner and this Because of recent changes to ACT Cullen W30 1500m 5.39, 5000m 21.33 made it "back to back" victories for Al as Legislation we were required to update and 100000m 43.54; Ken Daniels M45 he had won the previous event in our Constitution. Keith Butler, Bob long jump 5.79, 100m 12.6 and 200m November. Andrina Norden was second Harlow and Geoff Moore prepared the 25.7 and Maureen O'Shea W50 long and Ewen Drummond third. proposed new constitution (our third) jump 3.20, 100m 16.5, 200m 34.8 and 111 ran the 6km long and 31 the published in Vetrunner for study by 1500m 6.21. 4km short course Monthly Running members. Bill Beale beat 51 other runners in Handicaps at Isaacs Ridge. Mal Mary Wahren organized a weekly this month's Running Handicap at East Bernhardt won the long course from "Conditioning and Exercise" class at the Basin, second was Judi Neil and David Jamie McGregor and Lorraine Stevens Griffin Centre for members. This proved Thompson third. Paul Rudkin and while Mike Dwyer won the short course to be a popular activity and for a $1 a Rosemary Parker handled the very hot from Louise Vizard and Jim Tucker. session the class included a professional conditions best and were fastest on the Greg O'Neill became the fourth to instructor and supper. 6.8km course. achieve 100 runs and Geoff Moore More than 40 new ACT Records were 10 YEARS AGO (February 1993). earned his "50 runs" T-shirt. set during our Track and Field M40 John Stenhouse and W45 Gwen M70 Jack Pennington gave members Championships. Several members were Vines were the outstanding walkers at a scare when he was admitted to multi-record setters; Jen Bourke W40 our weekly track and field meets. Jane hospital with symptoms of a heart 1500m 6.20, 5000m 23.28 and 10000m Greaves (W50) and Elaine Cooper (W30) attack. However, on his release he 48.50; Denise Brown W35 javelin 23.40, were running the middle distances advised that he was now OK and that long jump 4.16, high jump 1.33 and shot superbly. Elaine's performances were he had suffered pericarditis.

DID YOU KNOW THAT YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU!! As ACTVAC goes into the year 2003 the club's Executive Committee seeks the help of willing members to help out in two areas. VETRUNNER DISTRIBUTION and ADMINISTRATION and STRUCTURE SUB-COMMITTEE Firstly a vacancy has arisen for a person or persons to take over the responsibilities as: Distributor for the 12 monthly editions of the Vetrunner The job entails picking up the club's newsletter from Koomarri in Belconnen once a month, usually the Friday before the last Sunday of the month. They will be packed in plastic covers and labeled as well as sorted into postcodes. The newsletters are then distributed at both the Throwing and Run/Walking Handicaps. They are also distributed by several individuals who take certain postcode areas and deliver them. The remainder are then taken to the Fyshwick Mail Exchange for posting. The procedure is not difficult as they are already sorted by postcodes, the filling in of the forms, etc, will be explained. If you can assist please contact the Editor, Jim O’Donnell on 62513016 or by email at [email protected] The second position that has become available is: Assisting the Administration and Structure Sub-Committee In addition to a monthly meeting, the typical duties are to manage and produce the document requirements to maintain eligibility for government grants. Monitor club activities and events for efficiency and fairness. Monitor information, requirements and relationships with other bodies to ensure the best outcomes for club members. Review, enhance and maintain the principles and objectives of the Club Development Plan. If you can help please contact Roger Stewart on 62653266 (w) or 62882798 (h). CLUB TRAILER FOR SALE The Club is replacing the Run/Walking Handicap trailer for a bigger model and the present one is now for sale. It is a Box Trailer 6 by 4 and has an angled cover, it is also registered. The price is $600 ono. If you are interested and would like to see the trailer before buying contact Jayne Hardy on 0412262257 mobile. February Vetrunner — Page 25 IT'S CHRISTMAS AND IT'S A "SPECIAL" TIME FOR SOME FUN

BRYAN THOMAS’ File of the committee has organised History of the ACT Veterans Club several successful and and it’s members is now into a popular “Christmas in third year. However it is nearing a July” dinners. conclusion as he publishes the letter X. Christmas “President’s Special” Xmas track and field meets: Parties: This is an alternative Christmas program focusing on fun is a time and participation held when on the Thursday evening before and adding many of Christmas. It was devised by Bryan variety to our and Trish Thomas and conducted by training members them from 1992 to 1997. Heavy rain while tend to put caused its cancellation in 1994 and enjoying a on a little programming difficulties in 1998. Ken lower risk extra Daniels revived it in 1999. The events of over-use “condition”. However it has also which made up the “Special” included injury. provided opportunities for special the Finnish Gum Boot Throw, Some pack runs to be conducted in the Ambidextrous , 400m Pro members forest prior to enjoying a Christmas Handicap, “Lord Burghley” while being involved in cross training snack and a few friendly drinks. Champagne Hurdles, Long Jump have discovered a latent talent in One of the special Christmas Eve Handicap, the “Gift” (100m handicap) another sport. Some have even been pack runs that proved popular was for men and women. The Twosome 2K medallists in Masters’ Games in devised by Bronwyn Gardner. and the 10 x 100m Shuttle Walk sports apart from athletics; for Bronwyn would lead the runners at a Relay. All handicaps were based on example, javelin champion Bob comfortable pace through a variety of modified WAVA Age Standards. Banens has added medals in weight different forest tracks, but as what Winners and place getters were lifting and will always occur is that some would honoured on the victory podium and rowing to gradually move to the front and begin presented with chocolate medallions. those of to run further away. It was mandatory that no one was athletics in She would let them go for a while allowed to leave without “winning” at these multi- but then blow a whistle and order least one “medal”. sport those in front to return to the rear of Although the program has been Games. Bob the main group. This system worked modified in recent seasons the “Gift” Harlow, Rad well as those wanting a longer or and a shuttle relay remain highlights Leovic, quicker run and who tended to run of the evening but even they are Lachlan away in front never quite knew when overshadowed by the appearance of Lewis, Rae Bronwyn would summon them back to Santa and his Elves. Santa’s Elves not Palmer and the pack. only hand out lollies and “good cheer” Keith As a result everyone ran as they but also join in the relays. Perroux are wished and all finished together. just a few On the X - who Tuesday Training: successfully morning (Cross combine immediately Training) is cycling and swimming with athletics. before the term John Bell, a very successful middle Christmas the used to and long distance runner who for Tuesday describe many years suffered from chronic leg Group conduct training muscle injuries, discovered while a popular sessions that working as a coach at the AIS that he “Hash House involve muscle movements different could maintain much of his fitness by Harriers” type of pack run in Stromlo from those employed in the main specialised deep-water training. At a Forest. Peter Kallio and Bernie sport. coaching seminar organised by the Millett volunteered to be the “hares” Runners and others involved in club in 1998 John explained the and did lay interesting “Hash” courses athletics may incorporate cycling, benefits of this form of training for incorporating bridle paths and swimming, rowing, weight lifting, veteran athletes. mountain bike trails in rarely run aerobics or other forms of gymnastics As a result an informal group of sections of the forest for a group of up in their training regime. Many see vets meet regularly with him at the to sixty “hounds” to follow. cross training as a means of AIS swimming pool for deep-water In recent years our Social Sub- improving fitness, skill development training sessions. Page 26 — February Vetrunner RUN/WALKING HANDICAP RULES AND REGULATIONS Welcome to the 2003 Run/Walk Reiby Place), continue on the dirt track Annual pointscore is based upon the Handicap season. I will be providing you up the hill until you make a left turn total number of points from a with updates on the season, regular onto paths (at the loop in Bavin Place). participants best eight eligible runs reminders about the award Follow the path down under Caruthers during the season. To be eligible for arrangements and rules in operation for Street to Curtin Neighbourhood Oval. points, a participant must: the season. If you have any questions Turn right and follow the path around · Be a financial member of the about the season, or suggestions for the oval. Once you pass the Brindabella ACTVAC at the time of preparation improvements, please contact the Run/ Gardens Nursing Home, take the path of the start lists for an event (this Walk Handicap Sub-Committee to your right under Theodore Street. may be a week before an event) I am writing this on Sunday, The path meets the main bike path – · Commence in their allocated group January 18. The devastation of the fires turn left and follow the path parallel to according to the start lists and the impact on our members and Yarra Glen (this includes veering to the · Have participated in the required their families is incomprehensible, and right to go under the Caruthers St number of events to gain/maintain our thoughts are with you. A ‘side’ overpass) back to the North Curtin eligibility impact of the fires is the effect they have District Playing Fields. Run parallel to Outstanding Performance on the various venues we use the end of the fields; turn left onto the throughout the year. I sat transfixed to bike path and then left to the finish Awards for the top three performers the radio yesterday listening to reports area adjacent to the oval. Total distance (male or female) in each of the handicap of burnt out areas. Needless to say, it is is about 6.5km. It will be measured and series (Thomas, Frylink and Waddell) too early to assess the impact on our marked for the event. A familiarisation judged against World Masters Athletics program for 2003. I’m sure you will be run will be held on Wednesday, (WMA) Standards. Based on understanding if our program has to February 19 at 6pm. performance over best eight eligible change. We will keep you informed events against WMA age group Frylink Series – the course starts on through Vetrunner and the website. standards (five-year age groups). the path at the western end of the At this stage, our first three runs King and Queen of the Mountain playing field. Turn right and follow the are: bike path around the edge of the oval Open to eligible participants in the January 26 – Weston Park (changed and next to the creek. Once you pass Thomas series. Pointscore based on due to clash with Canberra Triathlon) under the McCulloch St overpass, veer performance in best three of the four to the left and follow the track along designated “Mountain Runs”. Sponsored February 23 – Curtin North (from the by Manuka Drafting Services. North Curtin District Playing Fields in grass at the edge of the creek. Turn at Handicapper’s Award Dunstan Street) – part of this course the 2km marker and retrace the course, was devastated yesterday by the fires, keeping the creek on your right and the A totally discretionary award so the course described below for the oval on your left. Total distance is 4km. decided by the Run/Walk Handicap Sub- Thomas series may have to change for Waddell Series – The course starts on Committee taking into account safety reasons. The Frylink and Waddell the path at the western end of the participation, improvement, courses will remain as described. playing field. Turn right and follow the performance, contribution and/or any other factors we can think of!! March 23 – O’Connor Ridge. bike path around the edge of the oval and next to the creek. Follow the bike Handicap Adjustments At the February event, we are path under the McCulloch Street Handicap adjustments will be made planning to trial the use of scanners in overpass; remain on the path until you according to the following rules: recording results for the Frylink event. reach the 2km marker. Turn and 1 (current) event in top 15% adjusted to PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE BRING retrace the course, keeping the creek on 50th percentile, YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD (but of your right and the oval on your left. 2 (current and previous) events in top course, you always bring it, don’t Total distance is 4km 30% adjusted to 50th percentile, and you!!!!!) If you are wondering how you might Awards for 2003 3 (current and pervious two) events in contribute to the overall management of The Execut ive Committee has bottom 15% adjusted to 50th percentile. the Run/Walk Handicaps, why not join approved the following awards for 2003. The Handicapper has discretion to the Sub-Committee. We meet once a Annual Pointscore make these and any other adjustments month, so it is not a huge commitment. Awards for First, Second and Third considered appropriate in the interests Please see a Sub-Committee member to in the overall pointscore for each of the of fair participation. PRUE BRADFORD, Run/Walking find out more. Thomas, Frylink and Waddell series. Handicap Sub-Committee NEW COURSE DISCRIPTION Course description for Curtin North Playing Fields (February 23 NOTES FROM OUR PATRON event). JACK PENNINGTON, our club This quotes the research on two Thomas Series – the course starts on Patron, firstly writes about an groups of women, one group did the path at the western end of the interesting article that appeared in swimming as an exercise, the other playing field. Follow the bike path to the The Canberra Times just before walking. left through grassland between Dunstan Christmas. The results showed that the Street and Cotter Road. The path turns swimming developed to a “clinically left and gently meanders up a hill. In reference to The Canberra Times relevant degree a higher level of blood When the path ends (near the (Page 2 of December 3, 2002). The item pressure in the swimmers”, compared intersection of Jennings Street and titled “Swimming risks for older with moderately paced walking. women”. This reminded me of the comparison February Vetrunner — Page 27 many years ago of the success of our precise. He asked me if I was Jack and he soon promoted himself to Olympic swimmers compared with the Pennington? When I so affirmed he said running up Mt Ainslie (against my lack of success of our Olympic runners. he had been sent to see me by Mick advice). However, he bought the lease of This resulted in the swimming Sheehan of the Canberra Times. Mick the Deakin Health Spa and became a coaches suggesting that runners should conducted the Cross Country before me. swimming and gym instructor. And four train as the swimmers did, i.e. I then asked what he wanted of me, times a day he used to take a group of numerous repetitions of and he said, “I want to know if I could women for a jog and charged them each without a rest in between. become a runner and how do I go about a dollar. He thoroughly enjoyed his life This led me as a senior coach of it?” style, and over the years made many runners to express the view in several My immediate thought was “He’s friendships. publications that there could be no joking”. However, the coaching part of He eventually sold the lease and comparison between swimming and my brain kicked in and so I said, “Of bought the Kingston Laundry. He did running. course you can, all you need to do is to compete regularly up to a half marathon The fact is missing from the article I jog 100m tomorrow, then add 100m distance and had an ambition to finish a quote, and that is the work rate due to, every day.” He said, “Thanks very full marathon. Max funded the first in one the body is prone and the other is much” and he walked away. He did tell Veteran Athlete, which I published from upright, and the water in one, keeps me that his name was Max and I 1971 to 1979, his wife did the body temperature normal and in the thought he was a bit older than myself, duplicating and I paid a typist $20 per other body temperature is raised many by say 10 years. I was then a spritely issue. From 1975 I paid Mike Adler to degrees above normal, especially in 45-year-old and could hold my own with print it. In 1979 the circulation was 600 summer. most of the young university students and I handed it over to the Veterans I.e. Swimmers have it easy and that took part in the Cross Country Athletic Association, offered myself as much less work, no temperature races. editor and Mike offered to continue as problems, less lactic acid problems, no About three months later at the the printer. wind to contend with, no hills to climb, Cork Wood, a newcomer approached and The Association, in its wisdom, no down hills to strain the joints, no asked if he could run in the race. I appointed an Editorial Board with a interference from other competitors, due suddenly realised it was Max and Sydney journalist as Editor but no issue to these facts runners cannot spend turned to the assembled throng and said was forthcoming. hours training. “Boys, this is Max who was here about Having since those times the The other factor that is missing from three months ago.” opportunity to learn more about fitness, the article is the fact that in running, I told Max that the distance was I must make it clear that a person the heart rate is higher and the heat 10km and fairly hilly. He replied, “I’m diagnosed with heart disease must be factor opens up the circulation, whereas running 8km every day and I have lost guided by the medical profession as they in swimming the circulation due to the 12 kilos.” He told me he had followed my are now more knowledgeable. I can lower temperature is likely to remain instructions. So I gave him 15 minutes quote the results of a 20-year study at normal or restricted. start on the field, which included our the Toronto Cardiac Rehabilitation Did you note the three-way tie in the champion Dave McInnes. Centre, who in 1969 began training Milan Marathon of December 2, 2002? As I waited at the finish I heard people, who had had three heart First Robert Cheriot, second Michael someone groaning in the forest and it attacks, for the marathon. The Rotich both of Kenya third Daniel was getting louder, and so I thought to cardiologist himself was a marathon Caimmi of Italy all timed at 2:08.59. myself if that’s Max I’ve killed him. runner and continued for those years to This was the confirmed result and very Sure enough Max appeared and ran encourage his patients (and patients unusual, and reminded me of when our past me and collapsed exhausted. I referred to him) to jog with him as a printer, Dave McInnes, was conned into helped him to his feet and said, “I know special group in the Boston Marathon. holding hands by John Farrington (the how you feel, it happens to me.” (I have He also introduced The Cardiac Two Australian Champion) in a 25km road never collapsed). His main concern was Miles event to the Toronto Indoor race for the Championship. The referee his time. Athletics meet, and his fittest patients ruled that neither was trying to win and After the race Max told me that he were keen to compete. both should be disqualified. However, a had been a “Proof Reader” at the But in 1989 the research was committee meeting changed the ruling Canberra Times, but had lost his job due reviewed and the brief conclusion was and gave both a medal. But in future to ill health, in fact he had been told by that there was no significant difference this should not happen again. the Medical Specialist that he had in the mortality of the group who I wish all members a healthy 2002, hardened arteries and dangerously high trained and the group of patients who especially the Editor. blood pressure, which was the cause of were not trained. The only difference all his aches and pains, headaches and was that the trained people had a more Next Jack writes about a historic sleeplessness. He talked to Mick active lifestyle. phone call he received during the Sheehan who told him to come and see Even now cardiologists are not latter half of the year. me at the Cork Wood, and he had made prepared to recommend jogging, which On my 80th birthday in 2002 I his mind up that if he had no prospects leads to running, as both are much more received a call from Max Van of recovery he might as well die trying strenuous than swimming and Appledoorn to wish me many “Happy to get fit rather than die being supervised exercises in the gymnasium. Returns”. Max is now 83 years young completely house bound. In those days Max was the 48 years exception, and and still works in the Kingston Laundry the treatment for heart disease was fortunately by sheer determination and on a part time basis. rest. In fact there was no treatment. ignorance has enjoyed a long and Thirty-five years ago I was at the If Max had told me all this when we fruitful life. Cork Wood Cross Country venue and first met my response would not have about to start the race (I was also the differed. Of course I made a friend for life timekeeper), when a man approached, Max and I began running together and he presented his doctor with he was clearly over weight, rotund to be round Mt Ainslie on Sunday mornings, my book, A Life on the Run. Page 28 — February Vetrunner YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD, EVER, EVER!!!! CRAIG WISDOM one of the club’s feature in developing mature onset one repetition maximum* (1 RM)) three resident physiotherapists attended a diabetes), amongst many other days each week for three months. very enlightening Australian measures of healthy living. The managers of the nursing home Conference of Science and Medicine It is well documented that elderly were more than a little concerned! With in Sport in Melbourne in 2002. Here people are at far greater risk of litigation and duty of care issues are his views on what was discussed developing osteoporosis, and, if foremost in their minds they initially at the conference. functional capacity declines, are more declined the offer. However, with prone to falls and fractures. For the frail considerable reassurance that In October I attended the 2002 elderly, recovering from a fractured participants would be very closely Australian Conference of Science and shoulder or hip is sometimes impossible. screened and monitored, a pilot study Medicine in Sport, in Melbourne. It was Low bone density, and thus delayed was agreed to involving a sample of ten a four-day extravaganza of current bone repair, poor (or insufficient) diet, exercise and ten control subjects. research and thinking with participants and restricted access to rehabilitation At the end of the three-month involved in all aspects of Sports services, provide hurdles which elderly experimental period the findings were Medicine. Dieticians, General people often cannot over come. Sadly, very encouraging. Significant Practitioners, Surgeons, the result is a progressive decline in improvements in muscle mass, bone Physiotherapists, Sports Trainers, independence and capacity. density, balance, and spontaneous Podiatrists and Scientists were all well Faced with these gloomy features of activity levels of the exercise subjects represented. aging, Professor Evans and his team were found compared to the control Interesting keynote addresses decided to approach a large nursing group. No negative outcomes were included the latest thinking on home in the USA with a proposal to apparent. recurrent head injuries in contact enlist subjects for an exercise trial. The Armed with this evidence Professor sports, and the “trainability” of the child managers of the institution thought it Evans managed to convince the nursing athlete. There were workshop practical would be a wonderful idea to have some home management to undertake a much sessions on managing shoulder injuries, young, fresh faces come into their larger study. and “stretching at the extremes”. One facility and provide a little distraction This time the program was to run for hundred brief poster presentations from the everyday monotony. 12 months with 60 – 70 exercise covered a multitude of topics from the (Apparently they had visions of circles of subjects “working out” two times per physiological responses to driving V8 slumped and quilted octogenarians week. The change in exercise frequency super-cars, to the metabolic changes doing “Heads, Shoulders, Knees and from three to two sessions per week associated with short term starvation; Toes” before their afternoon nap!) reflected the researchers’ desire to test a from investigations into protection for The research design however, aimed protocol, which they felt, could be Rugby heads, to a comparison of to recruit very old residents and place realistically followed given the target professionally fitted and “off-the-shelf” them into exercise and non–exercise population. bra’s for sport! (control) groups. Exclusion from the The main difficulty at this time was With a smorgasbord of sessions on study was mostly on the grounds of finding enough people who were willing offer, I would not have expected the being too young (< 80 years!), or having to act as non–exercise control subjects. most inspiring and thought provoking an unstable medical condition such as The word had got out! Those ten address for me was going to be about angina, hypertension, diabetes etc. The exercise subjects in the pilot study had exercise programs for nursing home exercise group was to undergo high been out strutting their wares and residents. More likely I would have intensity resistance training (at 80% of singing the praises of the exercise guessed a wizz-bang training program for elite rowers, or revolutionary rehabilitation for shoulder surgery patients, or even identifying Olympic potential in 0 - 2 years olds would have Supporting Veterans Athletics topped the list, but not so. It was Professor Bill Evans of CRAIG WISDOM University of Arkansas Medical Sciences in Little Rock, USA, who stole the show, when he presented some KINGSTON startling information about the response to exercise of institutionalised elderly men and women. PHYSIOTHERAPY The research was conducted in an attempt to counter the well-documented AND changes advancing age seems to have on the body. Changes in body composition with aging frequently results in lower SPORTS INJURY CENTRE ratios of muscle to fat. The decline in muscle is due to reduced levels of At Unit 1 / 4 Kennedy Street, KINGSTON activity, and there is a similar decline in strength and the ability to perform Reduced rates for ACTVAC members every day activities. As activity levels fall so to do bone density, aerobic capacity and insulin sensitivity (a Phone: 62608244 Fax: 62608255 Or Email: [email protected] November Vetrunner — Page 29 program. It was obvious to residents levels), bone density (a measure of impossible due to arthritic pain and and staff that a transformation in these osteoporosis), muscle mass (as a swelling. In comparison, one set of ten people had occurred. Their increased proportion of body weight), strength, repetitions of specific resistance vitality and zest for life was obvious, activity levels and psycho-social factors exercises could be much easier to and the majority of volunteers queuing (including perceived stress, well being undertake. Exercise sessions of 20 – 30 for the next study wanted a piece of the and social interaction). minutes are adequate and only need to action! When the results of the study were be done twice weekly. Eventually sufficient control subjects analysed the findings were remarkable. There are few reasons to completely were allocated to satisfy the statistical On many measures statistically stop exercising, as we get older. scrutineers and the study commenced. significant positive changes were found. Similarly, there are compelling reasons Participants had a mean age of 85 Compared to control subjects, the for taking up an exercise program even years, and were again included even if exercise group became stronger, if you are not “active”, regardless of age. they had multiple medical conditions, as increased their bone strength, had fewer The many potential benefits do not have long as symptoms were being well falls, participated in more social to be at great time or financial cost. controlled by medication, diet, etc. (Any activities, slept better, ate more, and Consider your parents or perhaps volunteers initially excluded on medical increased their self esteem. grandparents. grounds but who subsequently had their The researchers concluded that, a Could their lives benefit from some condition/s stabilised, were permitted to high intensity exercise program is of the improvements in health and well join the trial once medical clearance had appropriate for “seniors” once risks being evidenced above? Perhaps this been given.) Interestingly, a degree of associated with unstable medical thought would be more applicable to mild dementia was not one of the conditions are accounted for. Excellent your own life. If frail, elderly, demented exclusion criteria. improvements in many measures of folk can do it, why not the rest of us? Throughout the study period health and well being were exercise subjects were closely monitored demonstrated with participants The usual disclaimer should of course apply. to ensure they were working at the undertaking a twice-weekly program for Before undertaking an exercise program, required intensity level (80% of 1 RM), 12 months. consultation with a doctor to assess relevant and performed one set of eight to ten Research like this is very risk factors is recommended. repetitions of a series of arm, leg and encouraging for those members of our *Repetition Maximum (RM) refers to the trunk exercises. community who are concerned about maximum number of repetitions of an If strength improved and 12 continuing (or starting) exercise, as they exercise, which can be performed at a given repetitions became possible, or, after get older. A common deterrent is resistance. three weeks at a particular load, the arthritis, which has a much higher Therefore, the weight or load for a 1RM lift is resistance was increased. incidence in older populations. Often that load which can be lifted only once. Periodically over the 12 month study aerobic exercise is suggested as the best 80% of 1 RM is 80% of that weight or load. period exercise and non-exercise type of exercise for general health and subjects were tested on a vast array of fitness. Unfortunately activities such as For further information about the type of measures including blood tests walking, cycling, rowing etc exercises that Professor Evans and his (including insulin, iron and cholesterol continuously for > 30 minutes is often research team utilised, or for other useful links, go to http://www.maillist.org/exercise

SOME OUTSTANDING HALF MARATHON PERFORMANCES BRYAN THOMAS writes about some is the second occasion that Kent has incredible string, completing all 21 ACT of the outstanding performances in won this trophy, previously winning in Vets Half Marathons and so deserves the Veterans Annual Half 1993. the accolade of “Legend”. Bernie Millett Marathon. Anna Thompson and Kathy Sims are should be the next “Legend” by now ranked 6th and 8th (81.8% and completing his 20th run next August. There was some very close racing 80.0% respectively) on our all-time best Seven more runners became within some of the age groups; eg in the women performances in the Vets’ Half. “Survivors” by finishing their 10th run M40 only 12 seconds separated Geoff Juani O’Reilly at 74 years of age is while two more helpers were also Hawke 1st and Peter James 2nd, M50 the oldest woman to have completed the recognised for 10 years of volunteering. Des Brown beat Kent Williams by 33 race. This year she ran 2:21.25 to win We now have 57 runners and 17 helpers seconds and both Anna Thompson and the W70 trophy. This was her seventh who have earned their “Survivor” Kathy Sims bettered the existing W50 age group victory. Juani has already status. race record. declared that she will run again next Anna Thompson’s outstanding run of year and so establish a W75 record. HOBART MARATHON 94.40 for the W50 age group was the only Juani had another reason to celebrate after finishing this year’s half Lisa Wilson was placed third in new record set this year. This effort was her first marathon, the Cadbury calculated as being 81.8% on the WMA marathon because daughter Maria won the W45 group. Would this be a first? Hobart Marathon at Claremont on Age Standards and so was the best Sunday, January 12. Her time was Mother and daughter both winning a performance of all women runners. Anna 3:28.0. The winner was Janet Urcher first place trophy in the same long in 3:2126. won the W45 age group trophy in last distance race. year’s event. Mick Corlis was tenth in the Anne Young has now made it 16 men's event in 3:01.36. Colin Oliver The best performance by a male (as wins from 16 starts. Bob Chapman has took out the event with a time of determined by the WMA Age Standards, 10 victories, Trevor Jacobs nine, Bernie 2:33.44 with Victorian Mal Grimmett now calculated on a runner’s actual age Millett and Juani O’Reilly seven each second three minutes adrift. and not merely by 5-year age groups) and Michael Freer has five wins. Apparently it was a pretty hot was 86.5% by M55 Kent Williams. This Big John Bakker continues his day for Hobart. Page 30 — November Vetrunner January Thurs 30 – ACTVAC Track and Field at the Weekly, Bi-Weekly and Monthly Events AIS. Starting at 6pm, the program: Hammer Customs Joggers meet every Friday at Stage 88 in Commonwealth Park at 12.20. Nick Blackaby (lower field), 3000/5000m, Pole Vault, 2000m 62756506. Walk (Hcp start), 60m, High Jump, Mile, Lake Tuggeranong Run every Tuesday on the lake near KFC at 12.30. Lloyd Edwards 62446340. Discus, Javelin, 200m (Daniels event), Triple BBQ Stakes Handicap, every Wednesday from the Senior Citizens Club in Woden at 12.20. Adrian Jump, Short Hurdles (Boag event), 4x100m Plunkett 62832307 (h). Relay (age based), 3000/5000m. Neil Boden Round the Lake every second Wednesday (Off PS pay week) at 12.30. Starts in Commonwealth Park at 62414023 (h). Nerang Bridge. Geoff Perry 62496965. February Barton Handicap every second Wednesday (On PS pay week) from the southern side of Kings Avenue Sat 1 – Tuggeranong Vikings Gift. Bridge at 12.30. Des Brown 62723512. Sat 1 to Sun 2 – NSW/ACT Multi Events Females in Training every Tuesday at the AIS Track (various distances) from 12.15. Anne Gripper (includes Masters) at the Sydney Athletic 62141239. Centre as Homebush. First Sunday of the month. ACTCCC Women’s and Girls Jogalong at the Deek Recreation Area starting Sat 1 to Sun 9 – New Zealand Masters Games at 9am. Entrance on Uriarra Road 50m from the Cotter Road. Maria White 62314168 (h). in Wanganui. Lake Ginninderra Handicap, last Tuesday of the month at 12.20. Start at the Lighthouse Bar. Michael Tues 4 – ACTCCC Summer Series. 5km at the Aylott 62526683. Boat House from 6pm. Mount Ai nslie Run Up on the first Tuesday of the month at 12.45. Start on Treloar Crescent behind the Tues 4 – ACT Athletics at the AIS from 6pm. War Memorial. John Harding 62441153. Thurs 6 – ACTVAC Track and Field at the AIS. Starting at 6pm, the program: Heavy ACTVAC Committee Meetings. Monthly on Mondays – February 10, March 17, April 14, May 19. Weight, 5000m Walk (Championship event), Centre, Campbelltown. Sun 23 – ACTVAC Monthly Run/Walking 100m (Boag event), Triple Jump, 800m, Tues 18 – ACTCCC Summer Series. 5.3km at Handicap over a new course starting from the Javelin, Shot, 400m, Long Jump, 200m Eddison Park from 6pm. North Curtin Oval. Thomas Series over 8km, Hurdles, 4x200m Relay (age based), 6-Lap Thurs 20 – ACTVAC Track and Field at the the Frylink and Waddell Series’ over 4km. All Spiral Handicap. Neil Boden 62414023 (h). AIS. Pentathlon Championships (event order races to start at 9am. Organiser Prue Bradford Sat 8 – Telstra A Series at the Perry Lakes Long Jump, Javelin, 200m, Discus, 800m 62815636 (h). Others on roster: Brian Austin, Stadium, Perth. Women and 1500m Men. 10000m Walk Geoff Barker, Bev Breen, Mike Breen, Colin Sat 8 to Sun 9 – Open and Masters 5000m, Championships. Other events include: 3000m, Bridge, Desma Butler, Warren Butler, Kevin 5000m track walk and M30-49 throws at the 100m, High Jump, 200m, Medlay Relay, Chapman, Merv Collins, Marco Falzarano, Sydney Athletic Centre, Homebush. 3000/5000m. Neil Boden 62414023 (h). Geoff Hawke, Terri Henderson, Richard Sun 9 – ACTVAC Sprint Marathon Relays Thurs 20 - ACTVAC Track and Field at the Hilhorst, Lawrie Kendall, Ian Lavering, Lachlan from Deek’s Recreation Area at 8.30am. AIS. Starting at 6pm, the program: Pentathlon Lewis, Alan Norden, Ross Peake, Bernie Contact Jim White 62314168. Championships (events in order: Long Jump, Rogers, John Suiter, Ewen Thompson, Robin Tues 11 – ACTCCC Summer Series. 4km at Javelin, 200m, Discus, 800m (women), 1500m Whyte. the University of Canberra from 6pm. (men). 10000m Race Walking Championships Tues 25 – ACTCCC Summer Series. 7.1km at Thurs 13 – ACTVAC Track and Field at the at 6.30pm. Other events: 3000m, 100m, High Lake Ginninderra from 6pm. AIS. Starting at 6pm, the program: Hammer Jump, 200m, Medley Relay, 3000/5000m. Neil Thurs 27 – ACTVAC Track and Field at the (lower field), 3000/5000m, Pole Vault, 1500m Boden 62414023 (h). AIS. Starting at 6pm, the program: Weight Walk, 60m, Long Jump, 1500m, Discus, Shot, Sat 22 – ACTVAC Monthly Throwing Pentathon Championships (events order: 100m (Daniels event), High Jump, Hour Run, Handicap at Masson Street in Turner. Discus Hammer, Shot, Discus, Javelin, Heavy Weight). 4x100m Relay (time based). Neil Boden and Shot starts at 1pm. Contact Trish Other events include 10000m Championship 62414023 (h). 62963278. (starts at 7.30pm), 3000m, 2000m Walk, 100m, Thurs 13 – Telstra A Series at Santos Stadium, Sat 22 – Telstra A Series at the AIS, Canberra. Long Jump, 800m, 200m, High Jump, Long Adelaide. Sat 22 to Sun 23 – AMA and QMA Hurdles, 4x100m Relay (age). Neil Boden Sat 15 – Telstra A Series at the NSW Athletic and Championships, Brisbane. 62414023 (h). RUNNING IN A SPECIAL EVENT - JOIN A TRAINING GROUP Groups of Veterans are training all over Monday 4.15pm Calwell Playing scheduled on the Sundays) both at Canberra. If you are interested in Fields. Deek Forest Park. Saturday from training for a particular event you should ROGER STEWART 62882798 (h) 8am at the Cotter Playground. contact one of the many groups listed Fitness/Sprint training on Mondays at GRAEME SMALL 62581162 (h) for below. It’s always fun to train with others, Chapman Oval from 5.20pm. details. share skills and knowledge. All levels of FRAN HARRIS 62302341 (h) ROY JONES 62510148 (h) for fitness are most welcome. Strength work, hurdle training. Twice details. In both the training details and the events calendar above, where no contact phone weekly at the AIS. Ring for times. RACE/FITNESS WALKERS number indicated in any club events, call MIDDLE DISTANCE CHRIS BOOTH 62474116 (h) the Secretary on 62910047 (h) or email GEOFF MOORE 62544753 (h) Mondays from 5.30pm at Parliament at [email protected] Monday from 5.30pm at North House. JUMPS Lyneham. Friday at 5.30pm the WATER STRENGTHENING/ JOHN HUNT 62748035 (w) Sundays Pinacle in Hawker. Saturday from 12 at 11am at the AIS track noon at Charnwood. Call for details. CONDITIONING GLENN COWARD 62885841 (h) JOHN BELL 0438381425 (m) Deep THROWS Ring for times. water training at the AIS Pool. Ring RAY GREEN 62316712 (h) GREG STRETTON 62958474 (h) for details. Ring for times. Tuesday from 5pm at the AIS track/ All athletes intending to join a WALKS Eucalypt Forest. Call for details. training group should in the first ROBIN WHYTE 62973438 (h) instance phone the contact. If you LONG DISTANCE train regularly and would like some Tuesday 8am starting at Lennox MICK DANDO 62477361 (h) Gardens (behind the Hyatt). company please let us know. Tuesday and Sunday mornings from GEOFF MOORE Training Groups SPRINTING 9am (when no ACTVAC events Coordinator 62544753 (h). JOHN BURNS 62319511 (h) November Vetrunner — Page 31 SANTA AND HIS "CHICKS" BRINGS CHRISTMAS CHEER

Santa on wheels at the track. Above left: Santa, alias, the club's part-time announcer, is about to distribute the "goodies" to all in sundry on the last track meet before Christmas. Above right, Where would Santa be without "Chicks", from the left, Deslie Kubitzky, Elizabeth Thompson, Anna Farnham, Cathy Montalto and Kathy Sims. SOME OF THE ACTION AT THE TRACK

Left: Anne Young, one of the club's top performers and not only at the track. Anne is probably up among the best in her age group in the country.

Right: Val Chesterton in one of her two favourite events at the track, race walking, the other is the pole vault.

Below right: Ken Smith demonstrates it's effortless when you know how.

Below left: Graham Burke is starting to get back to fitness after a spell off with injury.

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