TAC Distance Runners
Please contact markhookway@icloud.com should you have any questions or contributions regarding the web site. Some pages are password protected, so please contact me if you need the current password. See www.tonbridgeac.org.uk for further information, including new member enquiries.Site created by Mark Hookway copyright 2021.
Tonbridge AC Meeting, Monday 3rd May - Provisional timetable and Entries Open
The file below contains the details for the TAC meeting on 3rd May.
Please enter as soon as possible, so that we can assess the overall numbers within the current guidelines and what has been agreed with Tonbridge School.
Online entries in advance only. Closing date midnight Friday 30th April.
Entries here - data.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2021/GBR/tacmay/
Health declarations here - forms.gle/fyi6EBUuu9eoe1447
Volunteers needed for a number of roles. Please contact Graeme Charters at volunteers@tonbridgeac.org.uk
Please enter as soon as possible, so that we can assess the overall numbers within the current guidelines and what has been agreed with Tonbridge School.
Online entries in advance only. Closing date midnight Friday 30th April.
Entries here - data.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2021/GBR/tacmay/
Health declarations here - forms.gle/fyi6EBUuu9eoe1447
Volunteers needed for a number of roles. Please contact Graeme Charters at volunteers@tonbridgeac.org.uk
| tonbridge_athletic_club_meeting_3rd_may_2021_timetable_final.pdf |
TAC Takeaways Mentoring - Update Monday 12th April
Michael Ellis talks about his latest collection of shoes for training and racing, emphasising how important it is to have the right design for your running. Having the 'wrong' shoes can easily cause niggles or injuries.
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Blackheath and Bromley AC Open Meeting, at Bromley, Sunday 11th April
A few TAC distance runners were in action at Bromley.
800 metres
Ethan Rocks (u17) 2.09.95 1st in heat 6 - pb by 1.8s
1500 metres
Lily Slack (u15) 4.55.59 2nd in heat 1
Sophie Slack (u17) 5.25.78 10th in heat 1
Ella McIntyre (u17) 5.40.60 7th in heat 3
David Barclay (u17) 4.47.36 2nd in heat 5 - pb by 9.9s
Harrison Fraser (u15) 4.48.90 3rd in heat 5
Oliver Head (u15) 4.50.43 5th in heat 5 - pb by 3.4s
3000 metres
Harriet Woolley (św) 10.41.51 4th heat 1
Josh Prendergast (u17) 8.57.90 1st heat 2 - pb by 8.0s
Tom Woolley (v40) 10.04.74 5th heat 3
Chris Potter (v50) 10.50.61 11th heat 3 - pb by 37.3s
More details will follow but the live results are here - justiming.co.uk/liveresults/liveresults.html?meeting=bandb11.4.21&page=schedule
800 metres
Ethan Rocks (u17) 2.09.95 1st in heat 6 - pb by 1.8s
1500 metres
Lily Slack (u15) 4.55.59 2nd in heat 1
Sophie Slack (u17) 5.25.78 10th in heat 1
Ella McIntyre (u17) 5.40.60 7th in heat 3
David Barclay (u17) 4.47.36 2nd in heat 5 - pb by 9.9s
Harrison Fraser (u15) 4.48.90 3rd in heat 5
Oliver Head (u15) 4.50.43 5th in heat 5 - pb by 3.4s
3000 metres
Harriet Woolley (św) 10.41.51 4th heat 1
Josh Prendergast (u17) 8.57.90 1st heat 2 - pb by 8.0s
Tom Woolley (v40) 10.04.74 5th heat 3
Chris Potter (v50) 10.50.61 11th heat 3 - pb by 37.3s
More details will follow but the live results are here - justiming.co.uk/liveresults/liveresults.html?meeting=bandb11.4.21&page=schedule
Events coming up, including TAC meeting Monday 3rd May
For those who might be looking for early season track races here are some useful links -
Various opens including Bromley on 11th April - entry4sports.co.uk/#/
Worthing Open meets on 18th April www.worthingharriers.org/the-opener/
and 2nd May www.worthingharriers.org/sunday-2nd-may/
British Milers Club various meets - www.britishmilersclub.com/fixtures/
Kent Track and Field Championships at Ashford, Saturday/Sunday 8th/9th May
Entries are open for these championships
Details are here - http://www.kcaa.org.uk/track-field.htm
The closing date is 16th April so be quick if you intend to enter
I have already been told that the entry system is not straightforward, so shout if you struggle. I have England Athletics numbers if you cant find.
The championships are for under 15s and older (age groups are as per midnight 31st August 2021)
Tonbridge AC meeting, Bank Holiday Monday 3rd May (TAC only)
We are just finalising details for this meeting, which will go ahead.
A good range of events is likely to be available.
Look out for the entry information in the next few days.
Kent Schools Track and Field Championships at Ashford, Saturday 12th June
Details of how the Kent Schools Championships will operate and entry information is now posted here -
http://ksaa.org.uk/events/20-21/2021-06-12-kent-schools-t-and-f-championships.html
The championships have events for Juniors (years 8/9), Inters (years 10/11) and seniors (years 12/13)
There are no year 7 events this year
Please read all the information carefully as organisation is different from previous years.
Various opens including Bromley on 11th April - entry4sports.co.uk/#/
Worthing Open meets on 18th April www.worthingharriers.org/the-opener/
and 2nd May www.worthingharriers.org/sunday-2nd-may/
British Milers Club various meets - www.britishmilersclub.com/fixtures/
Kent Track and Field Championships at Ashford, Saturday/Sunday 8th/9th May
Entries are open for these championships
Details are here - http://www.kcaa.org.uk/track-field.htm
The closing date is 16th April so be quick if you intend to enter
I have already been told that the entry system is not straightforward, so shout if you struggle. I have England Athletics numbers if you cant find.
The championships are for under 15s and older (age groups are as per midnight 31st August 2021)
Tonbridge AC meeting, Bank Holiday Monday 3rd May (TAC only)
We are just finalising details for this meeting, which will go ahead.
A good range of events is likely to be available.
Look out for the entry information in the next few days.
Kent Schools Track and Field Championships at Ashford, Saturday 12th June
Details of how the Kent Schools Championships will operate and entry information is now posted here -
http://ksaa.org.uk/events/20-21/2021-06-12-kent-schools-t-and-f-championships.html
The championships have events for Juniors (years 8/9), Inters (years 10/11) and seniors (years 12/13)
There are no year 7 events this year
Please read all the information carefully as organisation is different from previous years.
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Questions and Answers - Update Thursday 8th April
Ryan Driscoll (1500m 3.46, 3000m 8.04, 3000m steeplechase 8.40) talks about recovery, sleep and training diaries.
Fast 5k road race, near Wigan, Monday 5th April
Miles Weatherseed ran 14.34 to place 8th.
Full results are here -
eventsofthenorth.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Results_fast5k2021.pdf
Full results are here -
eventsofthenorth.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Results_fast5k2021.pdf
PB5K South of England Showground, Ardingly, near Haywards Heath, Monday 5th April
Videos loaded !
There were 18 TAC distance runners in action. A summary is on the Results 2021 page.
Full results are here - results.eventchiptiming.com/Results.aspx?CId=16202&RId=5018
Alex Howard had a terrific run for 9th in the men's A race running 14.24, whilst Nicole Taylor was also 9th in the women's race in 16.52. There were 13 personal bests and 2 debuts. Verity Hopkins and Russell McIntyre ran the biggest pbs.
Photos are here - www.flickr.com/photos/organize/?start_tab=new_set
Full results are here - results.eventchiptiming.com/Results.aspx?CId=16202&RId=5018
Alex Howard had a terrific run for 9th in the men's A race running 14.24, whilst Nicole Taylor was also 9th in the women's race in 16.52. There were 13 personal bests and 2 debuts. Verity Hopkins and Russell McIntyre ran the biggest pbs.
Photos are here - www.flickr.com/photos/organize/?start_tab=new_set
Hayward Premiere Meeting, Eugene, Oregon USA Friday and Saturday 2nd/3rd April
Hayward Premiere Meeting, Eugene, Oregon USA Friday and Saturday 2nd/3rd April
George Duggan ran 3.53.67 for 1500 metres on Friday night in heat 1.
James West ran 1.52.49 for 800 metres on Saturday in the Invitational race.
Both will be hoping to pick up form in events coming up.
Results are here - live.athletictiming.net/meets/8006/events
The event was shown live on Runnerspace and doesn't require a subscription -
hayward-premiere.runnerspace.com/eprofile.php?do=news&event_id=14302&news_id=615124
Stanford Invitational, San Francisco
Chris Olley finished 6th over 1500 metres in 3.49.03, which was his first race of the year.
Results are here - rt.trackscoreboard.com/meets/4221/events/5/Final
The event was shown on Flotrack for those with a subscription -
www.flotrack.org/events/6743426-2021-stanford-invitational
George Duggan ran 3.53.67 for 1500 metres on Friday night in heat 1.
James West ran 1.52.49 for 800 metres on Saturday in the Invitational race.
Both will be hoping to pick up form in events coming up.
Results are here - live.athletictiming.net/meets/8006/events
The event was shown live on Runnerspace and doesn't require a subscription -
hayward-premiere.runnerspace.com/eprofile.php?do=news&event_id=14302&news_id=615124
Stanford Invitational, San Francisco
Chris Olley finished 6th over 1500 metres in 3.49.03, which was his first race of the year.
Results are here - rt.trackscoreboard.com/meets/4221/events/5/Final
The event was shown on Flotrack for those with a subscription -
www.flotrack.org/events/6743426-2021-stanford-invitational
Above - Chris Olley (left with white vest/black shorts) competing in San Francisco on Saturday
Battersea Comeback 5000m Night Wednesday 31st March 2021
Videos loaded !
Kieran Reilly and Miles Weatherseed showed that they have trained consistently during 'lockdown' as both came out and decimated their 5000 metres personal bests, at Battersea Park track, on Wednesday night. Kieran ran 14.11.23 to finish 6th in Race 7, the Elite Men's event. Miles finished 3rd in race 7 in 14.22.62.
Kieran moves from 20th to 11th on the TAC all time list, sandwiched between Henry Pearce and Andy Combs, whilst Miles moves from 25th to 13th. See the file below.
Full results can be found at - data.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2021/GBR/comeback/
More photos here - www.flickr.com/photos/156678663@N02/albums or on Mark Hookway's Facebook page
Kieran moves from 20th to 11th on the TAC all time list, sandwiched between Henry Pearce and Andy Combs, whilst Miles moves from 25th to 13th. See the file below.
Full results can be found at - data.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2021/GBR/comeback/
More photos here - www.flickr.com/photos/156678663@N02/albums or on Mark Hookway's Facebook page
| tac_all_time_top_10s.docx |
Above - Big 5000m personal bests for Kieran Reilly (101) and Miles Weatherseed (116) at Battersea
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Questions and Answers - Update Wednesday 31st March
Lucy Reid talks about recovery and refuelling, in response to Julie Goodge's request.
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Questions and Answers - Update Tuesday 30th March
Julie Goodge (TAC coach) asked the mentors for some advice and their own experiences in terms of eating and training sensibly. Sam Crick was the first to respond this morning.
Special offer of limited edition shell track tops - £20 each
We have some Tonbridge AC shell tops available for just £20 each. Stocks are limited but there are Small, Medium and Adult sizes. Please contact markhookway@icloud.com if interested. They are a bit thicker than the lightweight track tops that we have and have a hood available. Small and medium are available in reasonable numbers but large in very short supply.
Return to Tonbridge AC Training from Monday 29th March
Please see full details regarding the return to training from Monday 29th March.
Make sure that you contact the appropriate coach to pre-book sessions.
Make sure that you contact the appropriate coach to pre-book sessions.
| tonbridge_ac_return_to_training_2021_athletes_and_supporters.pdf |
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Questions and Answers - Update Monday 22nd March
Ryan Driscoll explains some of the sports and exercises he has used to stay fit when injured or to supplement his running.
Lewis and Clark Classic Track Meeting, Portland, Oregon, Saturday 20th March
George Duggan opened up his 2021 track season with an 800 metres win in 1.54.10 on Saturday, at Portland.
Full results are here - live.athletictiming.net/meets/7715/events/245411/results
Full results are here - live.athletictiming.net/meets/7715/events/245411/results
Kent Schools Championships, Saturday 12th June - Announcement
Please see in the file below an announcement from the Kent Schools Athletic Association.
See the Fixtures page for the current dates that we have.
See the Fixtures page for the current dates that we have.
| ksaa_championships_2021_announcement.pdf |
The Latest Update from England Athletics, Tuesday 16th March
On Tuesday England Athletics issued a lot more information about the return to competition, which can be found here -
www.englandathletics.org/athletics-and-running/news/guidance-update-2021/
www.englandathletics.org/athletics-and-running/news/guidance-update-2021/
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Questions and Answers - Update Monday 15th March
Phoebe Barker talks about dealing with injuries, specifically regarding her experience with Severs foot and Osgood Schlatters knee issues, caused by growth spurts.
Virtual English Schools Cross Country Competition
Although I am not personally a big fan now of virtual events, since GPS readings are notoriously inaccurate in some locations, I promised to let our young athletes know of an English Schools Athletic Association event that is taking place, which marks the absence of the English Schools Cross Country Championships this year.
Details are here - http://www.esaa.net/v2/2021/xc/virtual_cross_country_2021.pdf
The youngest, Junior, age group runners are 13 or 14 on 31st August 2021, whilst Intermediates are 15 or 16 and Seniors 17 or 18. Juniors run 2km and others 5km.
There is a 2 week window between today, Monday 15th March and midnight on Sunday 28th March, during which you can register your performance.
Please read the rules carefully.
Details are here - http://www.esaa.net/v2/2021/xc/virtual_cross_country_2021.pdf
The youngest, Junior, age group runners are 13 or 14 on 31st August 2021, whilst Intermediates are 15 or 16 and Seniors 17 or 18. Juniors run 2km and others 5km.
There is a 2 week window between today, Monday 15th March and midnight on Sunday 28th March, during which you can register your performance.
Please read the rules carefully.
Females and Running - what we can all do to support
Over the past few weeks there has been a lot of attention on the issues faced by females when either out running or walking, particularly on their own. This was brought to a head even further by the murder of Sarah Everard as she walked home in South London.
In relation to this I would just like to highlight a couple of practical ways in which many of us could help.
Firstly, if out running and you see someone ahead, be very wary about frightening them. If they are not paying attention, make it clear that you are closing in on them and, as far out as possible, shout something like “coming by on your right” etc or actually take action such as crossing the road or moving distinctly wide. This could apply to any pedestrian, not just females and is common courtesy. The risks are higher should they be wearing headphones or something, so would be even more oblivious that you are nearing them.
The second aspect is one where I was unsure whether we have a responsibility to highlight. However, after a bit of dialogue with others I feel it is worth noting.
As a country we are not going to eradicate overnight the appalling behaviour of some people, but we can maybe do a little bit to help on occasions. We have some really good young (and older) people who belong to Tonbridge AC. Sometimes, we may hear or see behaviour from people that we know is just wrong in terms of being abusive, intimidating, bullying, sexist, racist or whatever. By calling out the perpetrators we might have an impact on their future behaviour. Ideally, it should be a quiet word or message to them, rather than putting them on the spot in front of others.
Even recently, for example, I have seen abusive messages in a chat group, which were dealt with immediately. Maybe that person will reflect and not repeat his behaviour. However, to avoid dealing with it has the potential to allow them to continue or escalate the negative behaviour.
I hope that all makes sense, but what I am saying is that TAC has a great resource of generally positive, helpful and well-behaved people who can positively impact others. If you can do your bit, when given the opportunity, it might just change someone’s way of operating for the better.
In relation to this I would just like to highlight a couple of practical ways in which many of us could help.
Firstly, if out running and you see someone ahead, be very wary about frightening them. If they are not paying attention, make it clear that you are closing in on them and, as far out as possible, shout something like “coming by on your right” etc or actually take action such as crossing the road or moving distinctly wide. This could apply to any pedestrian, not just females and is common courtesy. The risks are higher should they be wearing headphones or something, so would be even more oblivious that you are nearing them.
The second aspect is one where I was unsure whether we have a responsibility to highlight. However, after a bit of dialogue with others I feel it is worth noting.
As a country we are not going to eradicate overnight the appalling behaviour of some people, but we can maybe do a little bit to help on occasions. We have some really good young (and older) people who belong to Tonbridge AC. Sometimes, we may hear or see behaviour from people that we know is just wrong in terms of being abusive, intimidating, bullying, sexist, racist or whatever. By calling out the perpetrators we might have an impact on their future behaviour. Ideally, it should be a quiet word or message to them, rather than putting them on the spot in front of others.
Even recently, for example, I have seen abusive messages in a chat group, which were dealt with immediately. Maybe that person will reflect and not repeat his behaviour. However, to avoid dealing with it has the potential to allow them to continue or escalate the negative behaviour.
I hope that all makes sense, but what I am saying is that TAC has a great resource of generally positive, helpful and well-behaved people who can positively impact others. If you can do your bit, when given the opportunity, it might just change someone’s way of operating for the better.
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Questions and Answers - Update Wednesday 10th March
Stuart Brown talks about dealing with injuries, specifically regarding his experience with Osgood Schlatters knee issues, caused by growth spurts.
Videos added from National Cross Country Championships in 2011 at Alton Towers
I have added a page for the notorious National Championships from 2011, as on 6th March this year's championships were due to take place. Conditions were horrendous with courses having to be redesigned midway through the day !
Tonbridge Courier article and interview with Michael Mason, Thursday 4th March
Michael Mason, who was part of many championship winning teams for Tonbridge AC around 15 years ago talked to the Courier this week, about how a life changing experience linked to his involvement with the sport and the club.
'How distance running might have saved my life'.
www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/tonbridge-athletic-club-athlete-reveals-how-distance-running-might-have-saved-his-life/
'How distance running might have saved my life'.
www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/tonbridge-athletic-club-athlete-reveals-how-distance-running-might-have-saved-his-life/
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Questions and Answers - Update Thursday 4th March
Lucy Reid talks about overcoming physical and mental barriers, after a question raised by Aimee Holdstock.
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Questions and Answers - Update Wednesday 3rd March
The latest 'TAC Takeaways' mentoring advice videos have been loaded, with plenty being created. See under the menu choices by category. This one, on Tuesday, is the latest, from Phoebe Barker (GB under 20 international) answering this from Amber Crush ?
Will having some time off affect your performance drastically ?
Will having some time off affect your performance drastically ?
And Nicole Taylor (England international) answering Annabelle Hales' question about what foods are good to eat before and after runs ?
University life by Jamie Goodge answering a question from Matthew Dubery
Tonbridge AC Challenge Round 3 Awards Announcement
We have now completed Tonbridge AC’s Challenge and many thanks to everyone who made a nomination during the past few weeks.
The judging panel has met for the final time and agreed to award three more main prizes -
1st prizes – Sam Crick (senior), Harrison Fraser (junior) and Nicky Buckwell (masters/veterans)
Additionally, all the nominees who have not received a main award will be given a token prize to recognise their efforts. These will be distributed via coaches in due course.
Caitlin Boyce (under 17), Ella McIntyre (under 15), Emily Geake (under 15), Huxley Crush (under 17), Jasper Burton (under 11), Jess Daly (under 17), Joe Hickey (under 15), Julie Goodge (coach), Kieran Eland (senior), Lara Jee (under 15), Leonora Lynn (under 20), Lucy Tallon (under 17), Niamh Tarry (under 13), Nina Ridge (coach), Penny Horne (under 15), Polly Moses (under 15), Rob Miller (senior), Sally Vine (w55), Saskia Lean (under 17), Toby Barton (under 13), Tom Daly (under 15), Tony Fullbrook (senior)
Mark Hookway will be in contact with all of these prize winners to arrange the awards.
The prize winners mentioned above were nominated for a variety of reasons, which included helping others, charitable efforts, significant training consistency and willingness to adapt, plus other aspects.
Congratulations to everyone who was nominated and all of you who participated to make this such a positive experience.
Best wishes
James Taylor
Chairman
The judging panel has met for the final time and agreed to award three more main prizes -
1st prizes – Sam Crick (senior), Harrison Fraser (junior) and Nicky Buckwell (masters/veterans)
Additionally, all the nominees who have not received a main award will be given a token prize to recognise their efforts. These will be distributed via coaches in due course.
Caitlin Boyce (under 17), Ella McIntyre (under 15), Emily Geake (under 15), Huxley Crush (under 17), Jasper Burton (under 11), Jess Daly (under 17), Joe Hickey (under 15), Julie Goodge (coach), Kieran Eland (senior), Lara Jee (under 15), Leonora Lynn (under 20), Lucy Tallon (under 17), Niamh Tarry (under 13), Nina Ridge (coach), Penny Horne (under 15), Polly Moses (under 15), Rob Miller (senior), Sally Vine (w55), Saskia Lean (under 17), Toby Barton (under 13), Tom Daly (under 15), Tony Fullbrook (senior)
Mark Hookway will be in contact with all of these prize winners to arrange the awards.
The prize winners mentioned above were nominated for a variety of reasons, which included helping others, charitable efforts, significant training consistency and willingness to adapt, plus other aspects.
Congratulations to everyone who was nominated and all of you who participated to make this such a positive experience.
Best wishes
James Taylor
Chairman
Texas Qualifier Meet, Austin, USA, Saturday 27th February
James West will be disappointed with his opening race of 2021, after he swapped from the 5000m to the 1500m and ran 3.42.68 to finish 13th. The race can be viewed 58 minted into this link - youtu.be/oRto43Og0jg
Tonbridge AC ‘Return to Training’ Plan – March 2021
Guidelines announced by England Athletics
The full update from England Athletics can be found here –
https://www.englandathletics.org/athletics-and-running/news/guidance-update-2021/
Monday 29th March
Tonbridge School Track (not centre) open to training, including toilets near track entrance.
Formal, organised training can take place in ‘Covid Secure’
Unorganised, non ‘Covid Secure’ activity can take place in groups of 6.
Note ‘Covid Secure’ means health declarations of from all present at a venue, use of sanitising sprays and gels and most importantly maintenance of social distancing protocols.
Outdoor competition, with no license can take place within a club ie TAC members only.
Competition involving other clubs can take place, if licensed and subject to confirmation by Department of Media, Culture and Sport.
No indoors, no spectators, one parent per athlete only.
Minimise travel.
Monday 12th April at the earliest
Changes include –
Indoor training allowed for under 18 and those with disability.
Monday 17th May at the earliest
Changes include –
2 day events with overnight stay.
Bigger events with spectators allowed.
Indoor organised training for adults can take place.
No restrictions on travel.
Monday 21st June at the earliest
Changes include –
No legal limits on social contact.
Competition returns to normal.
Other aspects normal.
Tonbridge AC process
Friday 26th February – Mark Hookway (Covid Officer) circulating questionnaire to coaches.
Week commencing Monday 1st March – collate information from questionnaire.
Friday 5th March to Friday 12th March – TAC planning meeting
To include Iain Presnell (Tonbridge School Liaison and Coaching Secretary), Mark Hookway (Covid Officer), Pete Mason (Coaching Coordinator), James Taylor (Club Chairman) plus 2 or 3 others maximum.
After 12th March – Detailed plan to be issued to all coaches with guidelines.
The full update from England Athletics can be found here –
https://www.englandathletics.org/athletics-and-running/news/guidance-update-2021/
Monday 29th March
Tonbridge School Track (not centre) open to training, including toilets near track entrance.
Formal, organised training can take place in ‘Covid Secure’
Unorganised, non ‘Covid Secure’ activity can take place in groups of 6.
Note ‘Covid Secure’ means health declarations of from all present at a venue, use of sanitising sprays and gels and most importantly maintenance of social distancing protocols.
Outdoor competition, with no license can take place within a club ie TAC members only.
Competition involving other clubs can take place, if licensed and subject to confirmation by Department of Media, Culture and Sport.
No indoors, no spectators, one parent per athlete only.
Minimise travel.
Monday 12th April at the earliest
Changes include –
Indoor training allowed for under 18 and those with disability.
Monday 17th May at the earliest
Changes include –
2 day events with overnight stay.
Bigger events with spectators allowed.
Indoor organised training for adults can take place.
No restrictions on travel.
Monday 21st June at the earliest
Changes include –
No legal limits on social contact.
Competition returns to normal.
Other aspects normal.
Tonbridge AC process
Friday 26th February – Mark Hookway (Covid Officer) circulating questionnaire to coaches.
Week commencing Monday 1st March – collate information from questionnaire.
Friday 5th March to Friday 12th March – TAC planning meeting
To include Iain Presnell (Tonbridge School Liaison and Coaching Secretary), Mark Hookway (Covid Officer), Pete Mason (Coaching Coordinator), James Taylor (Club Chairman) plus 2 or 3 others maximum.
After 12th March – Detailed plan to be issued to all coaches with guidelines.
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Initiative - a very positive start
As mentioned last week we kicked off this new initiative, which encourages some dialogue between our younger distance runners with some of our most successful seniors.
We have a good selection of Mentors involved and have the following young ‘Ambassadors’ so far -
Harrison Fraser (u15), Aimee Holdstock (u17), Lucas Gorrill (u13), Matthew Dubery (u17), David Barclay (u15) with help from their parents. These athletes are gathering questions via WhatsApp groups, which are then relayed to the senior Mentors to answer.
Many thanks to you all for offering your help so far.
If any others would like to help please let me know.
As examples, I have loaded a few of the Takeaway replies below and have put them under categories to the left of the home page under the Latest News heading.
We have 19 video clips answering questions that have been asked so far, the links being available on the site or on YouTube here -
https://www.youtube.com/user/MARKHOOKWAYADL/playlists
Message to the young athletes below and parents.
We have a good selection of Mentors involved and have the following young ‘Ambassadors’ so far -
Harrison Fraser (u15), Aimee Holdstock (u17), Lucas Gorrill (u13), Matthew Dubery (u17), David Barclay (u15) with help from their parents. These athletes are gathering questions via WhatsApp groups, which are then relayed to the senior Mentors to answer.
Many thanks to you all for offering your help so far.
If any others would like to help please let me know.
As examples, I have loaded a few of the Takeaway replies below and have put them under categories to the left of the home page under the Latest News heading.
We have 19 video clips answering questions that have been asked so far, the links being available on the site or on YouTube here -
https://www.youtube.com/user/MARKHOOKWAYADL/playlists
Message to the young athletes below and parents.
West Coast Conference Cross Country Championships, Las Vegas, USA
Wednesday 24th February
There is just one result which is from the USA, where George Duggan competed in the West Coast Conference, for the University of Portland. This was held in Las Vegas and by all accounts it was extremely warm. George was going well but suffered in the last kilometre or so and finished 37th.
TAC Takeaways Mentoring Initiative
After some dialogue, with a few of TAC’s top young distance runners we are going to try something new and see how it evolves. Full details are shown below this email.
The aim is to enable young athletes in the u13,15,17 and 20 age groups and maybe anyone else to ask some of the successful runners that we have for advice. It will be mainly fed through WhatsApp with help from some parents.
So far signed up as Mentors are England Internationals Lucy Reid and Nicole Taylor, England Schools International Katie Goodge, James West ranked 13th in the World at 1500m in 2020 with 3.34, Chris Olley 6th in the UK last year at 5000m, Sam Crick who interviews many of the UK’s top athletes at Crickcastpod, Michael Ellis who has vast knowledge of running shoes and equipment and is an excellent runner himself, Cameron Payas international for Gibraltar, Simon Coppard 1.50 for 800m, Ryan Driscoll who has won many National team champs and won the National u23 steeplechase, James Kingston top 10 in National u17s, Stuart Brown who has helped TAC win team medals through the age groups and Ben Murphy 1.49 for 800m.
Then so far signed up and in action as young ‘Ambassadors’ are Harrison Fraser (u15), Aimee Holdstock (u17), Lucas Gorrill (u13) with help from their parents. I have been in direct contact with a few more parents and hope to have a few more signed up shortly.
If anyone feels that they would like to help this process please let me know.
Full details are in the file below, explaining how the process works.
See the TAC Takeaways Mentoring Tips in the left hand column
The aim is to enable young athletes in the u13,15,17 and 20 age groups and maybe anyone else to ask some of the successful runners that we have for advice. It will be mainly fed through WhatsApp with help from some parents.
So far signed up as Mentors are England Internationals Lucy Reid and Nicole Taylor, England Schools International Katie Goodge, James West ranked 13th in the World at 1500m in 2020 with 3.34, Chris Olley 6th in the UK last year at 5000m, Sam Crick who interviews many of the UK’s top athletes at Crickcastpod, Michael Ellis who has vast knowledge of running shoes and equipment and is an excellent runner himself, Cameron Payas international for Gibraltar, Simon Coppard 1.50 for 800m, Ryan Driscoll who has won many National team champs and won the National u23 steeplechase, James Kingston top 10 in National u17s, Stuart Brown who has helped TAC win team medals through the age groups and Ben Murphy 1.49 for 800m.
Then so far signed up and in action as young ‘Ambassadors’ are Harrison Fraser (u15), Aimee Holdstock (u17), Lucas Gorrill (u13) with help from their parents. I have been in direct contact with a few more parents and hope to have a few more signed up shortly.
If anyone feels that they would like to help this process please let me know.
Full details are in the file below, explaining how the process works.
See the TAC Takeaways Mentoring Tips in the left hand column
| tac_takeaways_plan.pdf |
Some examples here answering a question from Harrison Fraser -
" How are you keeping motivated without any races or group sessions? Any tips?"
" How are you keeping motivated without any races or group sessions? Any tips?"
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Jamie Witz asked - Do you have any tips on how to become motivated to run on your own ?
Luciana Anderson - How far should i be running as an u20 ?
Parental support article in Tonbridge Courier newspaper, Monday 15th February
A Tonbridge Courier article is now online. There are lots of great, supportive parents out there of young sports people, especially illustrated during the pandemic. However, is there a line to be aware of where actions can result in unwanted pressures ?
https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/how-do-you-deal-with-pushy-parents/?fbclid=IwAR22TMAIgu0RbHlgw8unf-zHPXWpH9l3DJsFMa0tHR2--ii0AShu8FdKrkA
https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/how-do-you-deal-with-pushy-parents/?fbclid=IwAR22TMAIgu0RbHlgw8unf-zHPXWpH9l3DJsFMa0tHR2--ii0AShu8FdKrkA
Tonbridge AC Challenge Round 2 Awards Announcement, Sunday 14th February
Dear Club Member
Tonbridge AC Challenge Round 2 Awards Announcement
We have now reached the second deadline date for nominations for Tonbridge AC’s Challenge and to date have received 37 in total.
The judging panel has met and agreed the second group of prize winners as follows -
1st prizes – Lewis Collins (senior) and Harry Wrigley (junior)
Other prizes to be awarded to – James Kingston, Aimee Holdstock, Emily Bowart, Freya Ridge and Ellie MacAuley
Mark Hookway will be in contact with all of these prize winners to arrange the awards.
Everyone else, who is on the full nomination list, will be carried forward to the final entry deadline of 28th February.
It was also noted that some individual coaches had been nominated, in addition to the full team of Tonbridge AC coaches. In view of this, the Judges felt that, as so many of the coaches had been very supportive of athletes through the pandemic lockdown, that it wouldn’t be right to recognise individuals from this category above others.
If you believe anyone else is deserving of a mention or a prize please submit the details.
All the information can be found at www.tonbridgeac.org.uk (see right hand side of the front page)
The prize winners mentioned above were nominated for a variety of reasons, which include helping others, charitable efforts, significant training consistency and willingness to adapt, plus other aspects. More details can be found in the file below.
Congratulations to all the nominees and I hope that we can add more to the list in the next couple of weeks.
Best wishes
James Taylor
Chairman
Tonbridge AC Challenge Round 2 Awards Announcement
We have now reached the second deadline date for nominations for Tonbridge AC’s Challenge and to date have received 37 in total.
The judging panel has met and agreed the second group of prize winners as follows -
1st prizes – Lewis Collins (senior) and Harry Wrigley (junior)
Other prizes to be awarded to – James Kingston, Aimee Holdstock, Emily Bowart, Freya Ridge and Ellie MacAuley
Mark Hookway will be in contact with all of these prize winners to arrange the awards.
Everyone else, who is on the full nomination list, will be carried forward to the final entry deadline of 28th February.
It was also noted that some individual coaches had been nominated, in addition to the full team of Tonbridge AC coaches. In view of this, the Judges felt that, as so many of the coaches had been very supportive of athletes through the pandemic lockdown, that it wouldn’t be right to recognise individuals from this category above others.
If you believe anyone else is deserving of a mention or a prize please submit the details.
All the information can be found at www.tonbridgeac.org.uk (see right hand side of the front page)
The prize winners mentioned above were nominated for a variety of reasons, which include helping others, charitable efforts, significant training consistency and willingness to adapt, plus other aspects. More details can be found in the file below.
Congratulations to all the nominees and I hope that we can add more to the list in the next couple of weeks.
Best wishes
James Taylor
Chairman
| tonbridge_ac_challenge_nominations.docx |
Interview with James West, Sunday 7th February
Tonbridge AC's James West is a guest on this week's Sunday Plodcast, with Olly Lum and Matt Seddon.
The Apple link is here - podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-sunday-plodcast/id1540428224
Also here - audioboom.com/channels/5038145
The Apple link is here - podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-sunday-plodcast/id1540428224
Also here - audioboom.com/channels/5038145
Oregon Cross Country Invite, Friday 5th February
George Duggan becomes the first TAC distance runner to compete in 2021
George Duggan, competing for Portland University, finished a fine 5th in this cross country invitational event.
This made George the first TAC distance runner the first to compete this year.
Full results are here - live.athletictiming.net/meets/7078/xc-events/230799/results
This made George the first TAC distance runner the first to compete this year.
Full results are here - live.athletictiming.net/meets/7078/xc-events/230799/results
Above - George Duggan returned to racing on Friday
Tonbridge AC Challenge Round 1 Awards Announcement
Dear Club Member
You should know that over the past few weeks the club has been organising the Tonbridge AC Challenge and to date we have received 27 nominations.
A judging panel has met and agreed the first group of prize winners as follows -
Joshua Beesley - 1st prize overall
Other initial prizes to be awarded to - Lucy Kingston, Issy Fassnidge, Ella de Munck, Lucas Gorrill, Richard Puxty and Samantha Stubbs.
Mark Hookway will be in contact with all of these prize winners to arrange the awards.
Everyone else, who received a nomination, will be carried forward to the next entry deadline of 14th February, with a further consideration being made on 28th February.
So, if you believe anyone else is deserving of a mention or a prize please submit the details.
All the information can be found at www.tonbridgeac.org.uk (see right hand side of the front page)
You will see that there is a great variety of reasons for the nominations. The objective of running this Challenge was to spread positivity and increase awareness of some of the really good work being done by our members. We feel that this is so important, especially during this difficult time, so it is particularly pleasing that some of the nominations are for those who have undertaken to support causes involving mental wellbeing. The likes of Lucy Kingston and Ella de Munck have raised money, whilst the video posted by Lewis Collins is personal and powerful in delivering the message that you never know what the impact of reaching out to other people can be.
Congratulations to all the nominees and I look forward to reading some more entries in the coming weeks.
Best wishes
James Taylor
Chairman
A full list of the nominations is in the file below.
You should know that over the past few weeks the club has been organising the Tonbridge AC Challenge and to date we have received 27 nominations.
A judging panel has met and agreed the first group of prize winners as follows -
Joshua Beesley - 1st prize overall
Other initial prizes to be awarded to - Lucy Kingston, Issy Fassnidge, Ella de Munck, Lucas Gorrill, Richard Puxty and Samantha Stubbs.
Mark Hookway will be in contact with all of these prize winners to arrange the awards.
Everyone else, who received a nomination, will be carried forward to the next entry deadline of 14th February, with a further consideration being made on 28th February.
So, if you believe anyone else is deserving of a mention or a prize please submit the details.
All the information can be found at www.tonbridgeac.org.uk (see right hand side of the front page)
You will see that there is a great variety of reasons for the nominations. The objective of running this Challenge was to spread positivity and increase awareness of some of the really good work being done by our members. We feel that this is so important, especially during this difficult time, so it is particularly pleasing that some of the nominations are for those who have undertaken to support causes involving mental wellbeing. The likes of Lucy Kingston and Ella de Munck have raised money, whilst the video posted by Lewis Collins is personal and powerful in delivering the message that you never know what the impact of reaching out to other people can be.
Congratulations to all the nominees and I look forward to reading some more entries in the coming weeks.
Best wishes
James Taylor
Chairman
A full list of the nominations is in the file below.
| tonbridge_ac_challenge_nominations.docx |
Joshua Beesley who was nominated as first prize in the TAC Challenge
Tonbridge AC Annual General Meeting
Wednesday 17th February at 7.30pm
Via Zoom
Dear Member,
We hope you are keeping well.
The Trustees have agreed to hold the AGM on the 17th February at 7:30pm via Zoom.
Attached is:
If you wish to join please email me secretary@tonbridgeac.org.uk and I will send you the meeting link nearer the time.
Please note that any nominations for Management Committee roles or any written proposals or comments need to sent to me by 10th February 2021. Only members over the age of 18 are entitled to vote, however we welcome comments from our younger members.
Take care.
Ann Czarnowski
Secretary Tonbridge AC
We hope you are keeping well.
The Trustees have agreed to hold the AGM on the 17th February at 7:30pm via Zoom.
Attached is:
- the AGM agenda plus details about volunteer roles within the club
- last year’s AGM minutes;
- a letter about the membership fees for next year;
If you wish to join please email me secretary@tonbridgeac.org.uk and I will send you the meeting link nearer the time.
Please note that any nominations for Management Committee roles or any written proposals or comments need to sent to me by 10th February 2021. Only members over the age of 18 are entitled to vote, however we welcome comments from our younger members.
Take care.
Ann Czarnowski
Secretary Tonbridge AC
Tonbridge AC Challenge update - Monday 18th January
Nominations have been coming in for the Challenge (see below). Please nominate yourself if you think you are deserving or another TAC member who is worthy. Here are some of the distance runners put forward -
Harrison Fraser (under 15)
Organising to train with others in his age group, using WhatsApp and trying to keep others motivated.
Josh Beesley (under 20)
Been in severe lockdown since early March 2020 to protect a family member. Has kept fit and in January has upped his training considerably.
Lucy Kingston (under 20)
Lucy is in training and raising money for the charity West Kent Mind. She aims to run a virtual marathon in April/May time, but has already raised over £500, through the link on her Facebook page.
Rob Miller (senior)
Rob ran 34.46 on his own in a virtual 10k, which is more than 2 minutes quicker than his previous personal best for the distance. He has been training consistently hard since joining TAC in recent months.
Tony Fullbrook (senior)
Tony was nominated for his enthusiasm and motivating others by recognising their training efforts on Strava and giving ‘kudos’ on a regular basis.
Polly Moses (under 15)
Celebrated her 14th birthday by running a hilly virtual half marathon in the heavy sleet and snow. Polly completed the run in 2 hours and 8 minutes.
Niamh Tarry (under 13)
Niamh has been following the training plans circulated by Julie Goodge to the youngest distance runners. This included some reps in the past week in the heavy rain.
Emily Geake (under 15)
Training regularly and aiming to run under 20 minutes for 5k soon. A tough hill session was completed in the week that the Challenge was launched in the sleet, at Knole Park, Sevenoaks.
Harrison Fraser (under 15)
Organising to train with others in his age group, using WhatsApp and trying to keep others motivated.
Josh Beesley (under 20)
Been in severe lockdown since early March 2020 to protect a family member. Has kept fit and in January has upped his training considerably.
Lucy Kingston (under 20)
Lucy is in training and raising money for the charity West Kent Mind. She aims to run a virtual marathon in April/May time, but has already raised over £500, through the link on her Facebook page.
Rob Miller (senior)
Rob ran 34.46 on his own in a virtual 10k, which is more than 2 minutes quicker than his previous personal best for the distance. He has been training consistently hard since joining TAC in recent months.
Tony Fullbrook (senior)
Tony was nominated for his enthusiasm and motivating others by recognising their training efforts on Strava and giving ‘kudos’ on a regular basis.
Polly Moses (under 15)
Celebrated her 14th birthday by running a hilly virtual half marathon in the heavy sleet and snow. Polly completed the run in 2 hours and 8 minutes.
Niamh Tarry (under 13)
Niamh has been following the training plans circulated by Julie Goodge to the youngest distance runners. This included some reps in the past week in the heavy rain.
Emily Geake (under 15)
Training regularly and aiming to run under 20 minutes for 5k soon. A tough hill session was completed in the week that the Challenge was launched in the sleet, at Knole Park, Sevenoaks.
Tonbridge AC Challenge Launched ! - Thursday 14th January
Nominate yourself or someone else who is currently deserving
The Tonbridge AC Committee are supporting a Challenge over the next few weeks with the aim of spreading some positivity and motivation, whilst highlighting the efforts of members during this difficult time.
Please spend a few moments to read through and think about the things you have been doing or would like to do, does this give that extra bit of motivation you needed? Let us know what you are doing, you may inspire others and win a prize. Parents of young athletes, we know you have a lot on, but please try and remember to pass the message on.
By supporting this initiative you may well help a few others.
Please stay safe, whilst completing any training or challenge.
Many thanks
Tonbridge AC Committee
Please spend a few moments to read through and think about the things you have been doing or would like to do, does this give that extra bit of motivation you needed? Let us know what you are doing, you may inspire others and win a prize. Parents of young athletes, we know you have a lot on, but please try and remember to pass the message on.
By supporting this initiative you may well help a few others.
Please stay safe, whilst completing any training or challenge.
Many thanks
Tonbridge AC Committee
| tonbridge_ac_challenge_january_and_february_2021.doc |
Sunday Podcast Interview, 10th January
On Sunday the latest episode of The Sunday Plodcast went live and I (Mark Hookway) was grateful to be asked by Matt Seddon and Olly Lum to take part.
The Apple link is here - podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep-9-mark-hookway/id1540428224?i=1000504837115
Otherwise here - audioboom.com/channels/5038145
The Apple link is here - podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep-9-mark-hookway/id1540428224?i=1000504837115
Otherwise here - audioboom.com/channels/5038145
New Government Guidelines - Tuesday 5th January 2021
The new guidelines, issued by the government, include some key changes that will affect what we are able to do -
Under 18s cannot now participate in organised sport, as had been possible. This will impact on some training sessions that had been planned, such as under 13s returning to Tuesday/Thursday training.
Training once a day outside with one other person is allowed, but travel to 'out of area' locations is not.
The Government guidelines can be found here -
www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home
England Athletics should be updating here -
www.englandathletics.org
Under 18s cannot now participate in organised sport, as had been possible. This will impact on some training sessions that had been planned, such as under 13s returning to Tuesday/Thursday training.
Training once a day outside with one other person is allowed, but travel to 'out of area' locations is not.
The Government guidelines can be found here -
www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home
England Athletics should be updating here -
www.englandathletics.org
Tonbridge AC Distance Runners Challenge November and December 2020 - final results
Updated Sunday 3rd January (ended midnight 2nd January)
Isaac Arnott takes the title !
Isaac Arnott fended off Russell McIntyre's fierce challenge to win by just 2 points.
Mark Pitcairn-Knowles will be delivering his trophy and prize.
The top scorers were -
1st Isaac Arnott (10 courses) 981 points
2nd Russell McIntyre (10 courses) 979 points
3rd Anthony Crush (10 courses) 956
4th Tony Fullbrook (10 courses) 954 points
5th David Suddes (10 courses) 941 points
6th Michael Thomson (10 courses) 916 points
7th Derek Jee (9 courses) 850 points
26 runners took part. Many thanks to Mark PK for initiating the challenge, Nichola Evans for the admin and Russell McIntyre for his strava look-out work !
Mark Pitcairn-Knowles will be delivering his trophy and prize.
The top scorers were -
1st Isaac Arnott (10 courses) 981 points
2nd Russell McIntyre (10 courses) 979 points
3rd Anthony Crush (10 courses) 956
4th Tony Fullbrook (10 courses) 954 points
5th David Suddes (10 courses) 941 points
6th Michael Thomson (10 courses) 916 points
7th Derek Jee (9 courses) 850 points
26 runners took part. Many thanks to Mark PK for initiating the challenge, Nichola Evans for the admin and Russell McIntyre for his strava look-out work !
| tac_virtual_races_lock_down_v2_-_results_as_at_02012021.xlsx |
Above - Isaac Arnott received his trophy and price for winning the TAC Challenge
Tonbridge AC Christmas Pudding Race, Boxing Day, Saturday 26th December
at Judd Schools Vizards Sports Fields, Lower Hayesden
Video loaded !
Many thanks to all those who ran, supported and helped, especially Simon Fraser who set the course up and measured it.
Full results are on the Results 2020 page.
Photos are here - www.flickr.com/photos/156678663@N02/albums and also on Mark Hookway's Facebook page.
Handicap results
1st Flora Currie
2nd Jamie MacDonald
3rd Zara Greeves
4th Noah Rocks
Fastest actual times
Male
1st Josh Prendergast (u15) 17.37
2nd Huxley Crush (u17) 17.54
3rd Henry Bretz (u17) 18.15
Female
1st Lily Slack (u15) 19.42
2nd Sophie Preston (u17) 20.30
3rd Sophie Slack (u15) 21.23
Full results are on the Results 2020 page.
Photos are here - www.flickr.com/photos/156678663@N02/albums and also on Mark Hookway's Facebook page.
Handicap results
1st Flora Currie
2nd Jamie MacDonald
3rd Zara Greeves
4th Noah Rocks
Fastest actual times
Male
1st Josh Prendergast (u15) 17.37
2nd Huxley Crush (u17) 17.54
3rd Henry Bretz (u17) 18.15
Female
1st Lily Slack (u15) 19.42
2nd Sophie Preston (u17) 20.30
3rd Sophie Slack (u15) 21.23
Above top 4 places
Top - 1st Flora Currie and 2nd Jamie MacDonald
Bottom - 3rd Zara Greeves and 4th Noah Rocks
Top - 1st Flora Currie and 2nd Jamie MacDonald
Bottom - 3rd Zara Greeves and 4th Noah Rocks
Above fastest times
Top male - Josh Prendergast, Huxley Crush, Henry Bretz
Bottom female - Lily Slack, Sophie Preston, Sophie Slack
Top male - Josh Prendergast, Huxley Crush, Henry Bretz
Bottom female - Lily Slack, Sophie Preston, Sophie Slack