TAC Distance Runners
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Looking ahead...........
Saturday 27th October – Kent Cross Country League, at Tonbridge (all ages)
Please check Team Selection Page for list of runners and helpers
Course maps now on Race Information page
Saturday 3rd November – National Cross Country Relays, at Mansfield (all ages)
Saturday 10th November – Kent Cross Country League, at Bexleyheath (all ages, exc Senior Men)
See the respective Race Information pages for details.
Please check Team Selection Page for list of runners and helpers
Course maps now on Race Information page
Saturday 3rd November – National Cross Country Relays, at Mansfield (all ages)
Saturday 10th November – Kent Cross Country League, at Bexleyheath (all ages, exc Senior Men)
See the respective Race Information pages for details.
Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Canada, Sunday 21st October
Henry Pearce smashes Tonbridge AC Marathon record with 2.19.21
Henry Pearce representing an England team in Toronto has smashed the club record with 2.19.21, when he finished 14th.
Henry's time broke the 33 year old record set by Cain Bradley in 1985 when he ran 2.24.31.
5k split times were 16.15, 16.20, 16.12, 16.13, 16.06, 16.26,16.48, 17.13
The time puts Henry 4th on the UK rankings.
Henry's time broke the 33 year old record set by Cain Bradley in 1985 when he ran 2.24.31.
5k split times were 16.15, 16.20, 16.12, 16.13, 16.06, 16.26,16.48, 17.13
The time puts Henry 4th on the UK rankings.
Henry Pearce - Tonbridge AC Marathon record in Toronto
Sunday News, 21st October
Weymouth 10 mile road race
Julian Rendall won the Weymouth 10 miles in 59.06 and was clearly the first over 40 runner home.
Full results are here - www.egdonheathharriers.com/results/wey10_results_2018.pdf
Tonbridge 10km Road Race
A few from TAC were running this 10k race that actually starts in Hildenborough. Claire Day was the first female home in 39.53.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
Great South Run, 10 mile Road Race, Portsmouth
Maria Heslop ran 61.06 for 7th place in the women's Elite race. This was outside her own TAC w50 record.
Full results are here - www.greatrun.org/myresults/full-search
Julian Rendall won the Weymouth 10 miles in 59.06 and was clearly the first over 40 runner home.
Full results are here - www.egdonheathharriers.com/results/wey10_results_2018.pdf
Tonbridge 10km Road Race
A few from TAC were running this 10k race that actually starts in Hildenborough. Claire Day was the first female home in 39.53.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
Great South Run, 10 mile Road Race, Portsmouth
Maria Heslop ran 61.06 for 7th place in the women's Elite race. This was outside her own TAC w50 record.
Full results are here - www.greatrun.org/myresults/full-search
Saturday News, 20th October
Cuppers Race, Cambridge
Phoebe Barker won her first race at Cambridge University, when she was first home in the Cuppers race, run between colleges there.
North of England Cross Country Relays
Dom Brown ran the first leg for the University of Sheffield, coming home 7th on the first leg. The team eventually finished 17th.
Full results are here - www.race-results.co.uk/results/2018/naxcrsm18.htm
Phoebe Barker won her first race at Cambridge University, when she was first home in the Cuppers race, run between colleges there.
North of England Cross Country Relays
Dom Brown ran the first leg for the University of Sheffield, coming home 7th on the first leg. The team eventually finished 17th.
Full results are here - www.race-results.co.uk/results/2018/naxcrsm18.htm
Sunday News, 14th October
Manchester Half Marathon
Alex Howard ran an excellent 68.40 to finish13th. It wasn't quite his debut as he ran 83.59 at Tonbridge six years ago ! Alex came the fifth Tonbridge runner to go under 70 minutes this year.
Full results are here - www.manchesterhalfmarathon.com/event-info/2018-results/
Yorkshire Marathon
Anthony Bennett ran a pb of 2.52.19 to finish 57th overall and 9th over 40. Full results are here -
www.chiptiming.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/asda-foundation-yorkshire-marathon-2018.pdf
Goodwood Half Marathon
Matt Dennis ran a pb of 78.39,when finishing 4th. This sliced 42 seconds from his best set at Tunbridge Wells earlier this year.
Full results are here - results.sporthive.com/events/6457181320335306240
Great West Half Marathon, Exeter
Ollie Kingston ran 86.57 to finish 76th
Full results are here - www.runbritainrankings.com/results/results.aspx?meetingid=244729&event=HM&venue=Exeter&date=14-Oct-18
Alex Howard ran an excellent 68.40 to finish13th. It wasn't quite his debut as he ran 83.59 at Tonbridge six years ago ! Alex came the fifth Tonbridge runner to go under 70 minutes this year.
Full results are here - www.manchesterhalfmarathon.com/event-info/2018-results/
Yorkshire Marathon
Anthony Bennett ran a pb of 2.52.19 to finish 57th overall and 9th over 40. Full results are here -
www.chiptiming.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/asda-foundation-yorkshire-marathon-2018.pdf
Goodwood Half Marathon
Matt Dennis ran a pb of 78.39,when finishing 4th. This sliced 42 seconds from his best set at Tunbridge Wells earlier this year.
Full results are here - results.sporthive.com/events/6457181320335306240
Great West Half Marathon, Exeter
Ollie Kingston ran 86.57 to finish 76th
Full results are here - www.runbritainrankings.com/results/results.aspx?meetingid=244729&event=HM&venue=Exeter&date=14-Oct-18
Other Saturday News, Saturday 13th October
Cardiff Cross Challenge
Nicole Taylor had an excellent race to finish 6th in the Senior Womens race.
Full results are here - www.fullonsport.com/result
Pre Nationals Cross Country Meet, Wisconsin, USA
James West finished 17th in the first mens race (Cardinal race) in 24.14 and then Chris Olley was 3rd in the second race (White race) in 23.54. Both were over the same 8km course. Its an opportunity for US University teams to race at the same venue that the National Championships will be held at in November.
Full results are here - live.recordtiming.com/meets/1507/events
North Midlands Cross Country League, at Derby
Kiri Marsh finished 3rd and Lottie Richardson 11th, both racing for Nottingham University.
Surrey League, at Richmond Park
Max Nicholls finished 7th, running for his second claim club, Kent AC. Full results are here -
surreyleague.org/slm/race/205/#indiv
Hampshire Cross Country League at Bournemouth
Bede Pitcairn-Knowles finished 28th and 7th under 20 in his debut for his second claim club, Southampton. Bede is at Solent University.
Nicole Taylor had an excellent race to finish 6th in the Senior Womens race.
Full results are here - www.fullonsport.com/result
Pre Nationals Cross Country Meet, Wisconsin, USA
James West finished 17th in the first mens race (Cardinal race) in 24.14 and then Chris Olley was 3rd in the second race (White race) in 23.54. Both were over the same 8km course. Its an opportunity for US University teams to race at the same venue that the National Championships will be held at in November.
Full results are here - live.recordtiming.com/meets/1507/events
North Midlands Cross Country League, at Derby
Kiri Marsh finished 3rd and Lottie Richardson 11th, both racing for Nottingham University.
Surrey League, at Richmond Park
Max Nicholls finished 7th, running for his second claim club, Kent AC. Full results are here -
surreyleague.org/slm/race/205/#indiv
Hampshire Cross Country League at Bournemouth
Bede Pitcairn-Knowles finished 28th and 7th under 20 in his debut for his second claim club, Southampton. Bede is at Solent University.
Kent Cross Country League, at Nonington, Saturday 13th October
Videos loaded !
Warm, windy weather greeted the runners. TAC were out in force and enjoyed some really good results and a few are shown below so far -
Senior Men - 1st Corey De'Ath, 2nd Ryan Driscoll, 4th Jamie Bryant, 5th Sean Molloy, 8th Ben Murphy
Team 1st in both 4 and 12 to score.
Senior Women - 1st Maria Heslop , 2nd Sian Robertson.
Team 1st in both 3 and 6 to score.
Under 20 Men - 3rd Simon Coppard. Team 1st.
Under 17 Men - 3rd James Kingston, 4th Fraser Gordon, 7th Adam Van der Plas, 9th Toby Emm. Team 1st
Under 17 Women - 6th Noémie Thomson. Team 2nd.
Under 15 Boys - 2nd Matthew Taylor, 4th Fenton Davoren, 6th Henry Taylor, 8th Matthew Dubery. Team 1st.
Under 15 Girls - 21st Annabelle Hales. Team 5th.
Under 13 Boys - 1st Albert Kreuzberg, 4th George Hopkins. Team 1st.
Under 13 Girls - 1st Olivia Breed, 2nd Lily Slack, 3rd Sophie Slack, 6th Beatrice Heslop. Team 1st.
We had TAC Kent League records for starters in these age groups -
Under 15 Boys 18
Under 17 Women 11
Senior Women 17
Total Male 80
Total Female 45
Overall Total 125
Well done everyone.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
The individual u13 to 17 inclusive results are on the Results 2018 page.
Photos at - www.facebook.com/mark.hookway.5/media_set?set=a.10156619299119788&type=3
Senior Men - 1st Corey De'Ath, 2nd Ryan Driscoll, 4th Jamie Bryant, 5th Sean Molloy, 8th Ben Murphy
Team 1st in both 4 and 12 to score.
Senior Women - 1st Maria Heslop , 2nd Sian Robertson.
Team 1st in both 3 and 6 to score.
Under 20 Men - 3rd Simon Coppard. Team 1st.
Under 17 Men - 3rd James Kingston, 4th Fraser Gordon, 7th Adam Van der Plas, 9th Toby Emm. Team 1st
Under 17 Women - 6th Noémie Thomson. Team 2nd.
Under 15 Boys - 2nd Matthew Taylor, 4th Fenton Davoren, 6th Henry Taylor, 8th Matthew Dubery. Team 1st.
Under 15 Girls - 21st Annabelle Hales. Team 5th.
Under 13 Boys - 1st Albert Kreuzberg, 4th George Hopkins. Team 1st.
Under 13 Girls - 1st Olivia Breed, 2nd Lily Slack, 3rd Sophie Slack, 6th Beatrice Heslop. Team 1st.
We had TAC Kent League records for starters in these age groups -
Under 15 Boys 18
Under 17 Women 11
Senior Women 17
Total Male 80
Total Female 45
Overall Total 125
Well done everyone.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
The individual u13 to 17 inclusive results are on the Results 2018 page.
Photos at - www.facebook.com/mark.hookway.5/media_set?set=a.10156619299119788&type=3
TAC individual winners at the Kent League - Albert Kreuzberg, Corey De'Ath, Maria Heslop, Olivia Breed
Other weekend news, Saturday and Sunday, 6th/7th October
Saturday
Charlie Joslin-Allen finished 26th over 8km cross country in 25.41, at Franklin Park, Boston.
Full results are here - www.tfrrs.org/results/xc/14540/NEICAAA_Cross_Country_Championship#102172
Sunday
Joe Watts ran 38.18 in the Plymouth 10k, just 9s outside his pb.
Brighton 10 miles road race
Matt Dennis ran 58.33
Ryan Driscoll's parents got around in 1.32.26 (Tim) and 2.20.20 (Louisa) !
Tonbridge Half Marathon
2nd Dan Bradley 73.42, 5th Julian Rendall 76.02, 16th Luke Hooper 81.54 (pb by 1.19)
1st female Maria Heslop 82.32.
Full results are here with plenty more TAC -
www.nice-work.org.uk/races/the-tonbridge-half-marathon/2018
Westward League, Plymouth
Ben Brooks reports that he was 67th in the senior men's race.
Polly Pitcairn-Knowles also ran and result awaited.
Titsey Trail 10k
Dan Schofield finished 2nd and Harry Lawson (now TAC) 5th. Full results are here -
www.nice-work.org.uk/races/the-titsey-trail-10k/2018
Oxford Half Marathon
Ben Cole ran 68.37 to win the Oxford Half Marathon by over a minute. Full results are here -
uk.virginsport.com/event/oxford-2018/leaderboard
Charlie Joslin-Allen finished 26th over 8km cross country in 25.41, at Franklin Park, Boston.
Full results are here - www.tfrrs.org/results/xc/14540/NEICAAA_Cross_Country_Championship#102172
Sunday
Joe Watts ran 38.18 in the Plymouth 10k, just 9s outside his pb.
Brighton 10 miles road race
Matt Dennis ran 58.33
Ryan Driscoll's parents got around in 1.32.26 (Tim) and 2.20.20 (Louisa) !
Tonbridge Half Marathon
2nd Dan Bradley 73.42, 5th Julian Rendall 76.02, 16th Luke Hooper 81.54 (pb by 1.19)
1st female Maria Heslop 82.32.
Full results are here with plenty more TAC -
www.nice-work.org.uk/races/the-tonbridge-half-marathon/2018
Westward League, Plymouth
Ben Brooks reports that he was 67th in the senior men's race.
Polly Pitcairn-Knowles also ran and result awaited.
Titsey Trail 10k
Dan Schofield finished 2nd and Harry Lawson (now TAC) 5th. Full results are here -
www.nice-work.org.uk/races/the-titsey-trail-10k/2018
Oxford Half Marathon
Ben Cole ran 68.37 to win the Oxford Half Marathon by over a minute. Full results are here -
uk.virginsport.com/event/oxford-2018/leaderboard
Lucy Reid smashes TAC Half Marathon record, at Cardiff, Sunday 7th October
Lucy Reid, representing an England team had the race of her life to finish 11th in the Cardiff Half Marathon, which this year doubled as the Commonwealth Half Marathon. Lucy ran 73.47 to smash her own pb of 76.17 and also demolish Miranda Heathcote's club record of 76.00, set 30 years ago.
Lucy Reid - TAC Half Marathon record
National Road Relay Championships, at Sutton Coldfield, Saturday 6th October
Videos loading !
TAC had some excellent results, headed by the girls and ladies !
1st Under 13 girls (Olivia Breed, Sophie Slack, Lily Slack)
Lily ran the fastest lap of the whole race and recorded the fastest ever TAC u13 time on the course.
3rd Senior Women (Nicole Taylor, Phoebe Barker, Elle Baker, Ashley Gibson)
This was the first time that a TAC women's team have won medals in any National Championship.
4th Senior Men (plus 1st B team in 14th)
It's now 4 years in a row of recording a top 4 position. Corey De'Ath had his best ever race on the first leg.
4th Under 13 boys
The team probably performed above expectations. Albert Kreuzberg ran the 6th fastest lap of the race.
6th Under 17 men
Another really good performance, with a squad that has a better chance when four in a team and all present.
7th Under 15 boys
Matthew Taylor almost grabbed 5th spot on the last leg. The whole squad did well, after a last minute adjustment, when Fin Croll had to drop out with his knee issue, after warming up.
12th Under 17 women
This team also out performed expectations, with Katie Goodge running the 4th fastest lap of the race and Elizabeth Heslop having her best ever race. This was the largest number of u17 women that we had taken to the championships.
39th Under 15 girls
Well done to the three girls who committed and gave it their all. We lack numbers in this age group, but it ensured that we were represented in all eight races, which few clubs manage.
Overall we had six teams finish in top 7 positions, a feat never achieved before and had 60 starters across the age groups, which is also a record.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
Photos are at - www.facebook.com/mark.hookway.5/media_set?set=a.10156603482819788&type=3&uploaded=169
1st Under 13 girls (Olivia Breed, Sophie Slack, Lily Slack)
Lily ran the fastest lap of the whole race and recorded the fastest ever TAC u13 time on the course.
3rd Senior Women (Nicole Taylor, Phoebe Barker, Elle Baker, Ashley Gibson)
This was the first time that a TAC women's team have won medals in any National Championship.
4th Senior Men (plus 1st B team in 14th)
It's now 4 years in a row of recording a top 4 position. Corey De'Ath had his best ever race on the first leg.
4th Under 13 boys
The team probably performed above expectations. Albert Kreuzberg ran the 6th fastest lap of the race.
6th Under 17 men
Another really good performance, with a squad that has a better chance when four in a team and all present.
7th Under 15 boys
Matthew Taylor almost grabbed 5th spot on the last leg. The whole squad did well, after a last minute adjustment, when Fin Croll had to drop out with his knee issue, after warming up.
12th Under 17 women
This team also out performed expectations, with Katie Goodge running the 4th fastest lap of the race and Elizabeth Heslop having her best ever race. This was the largest number of u17 women that we had taken to the championships.
39th Under 15 girls
Well done to the three girls who committed and gave it their all. We lack numbers in this age group, but it ensured that we were represented in all eight races, which few clubs manage.
Overall we had six teams finish in top 7 positions, a feat never achieved before and had 60 starters across the age groups, which is also a record.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
Photos are at - www.facebook.com/mark.hookway.5/media_set?set=a.10156603482819788&type=3&uploaded=169
Senior Ladies - Nicole Taylor, Phoebe Barker, Elle Baker, Ashley Gibson
First ever TAC womens team to win medals at a National Championships
First ever TAC womens team to win medals at a National Championships
Under 13 Girls - Lily Slack, Olivia Breed, Sophie Slack
National Champions
National Champions
Some of the 'star' runners at the relays on Saturday (those whose performances particularly caught the eye)
Tonbridge Track - Tuesday 2nd October 2018
I thought that I should share this photo taken by Pawel Bachorski.
English Schools Cup 1st Round, at The Schools at Somerhill, Tuesday 2nd October
I only post a few schools results on here but this one appears on the Results 2018 page as there were so many TAC athletes in action. They have been highlighted in yellow and you will see how many are near the front of the races.
There were TAC wins in three of the four age groups, through Lily Slack, Albert Kreuzberg and Matthew Taylor.
There were TAC wins in three of the four age groups, through Lily Slack, Albert Kreuzberg and Matthew Taylor.
Lucy Reid selected for England at the Half Marathon
Lucy Reid has been selected to race for an England team that competes in the Cardiff Half Marathon on Sunday.
This will be Lucy's first ever international vest.
Details here - www.englandathletics.org/england-athletics-news/england-ready-for-inaugural-commonwealth-half-marathon-championships?returnLink=bmV3cy5hc3B4P3NpdGVzZWN0aW9uaWQ9NDImc2l0ZXNlY3Rpb250aXRsZT1FbmdsYW5kK0F0aGxldGljcytOZXdzJm9yaWdpbmFscGF0aD1lbmdsYW5kLWF0aGxldGljcy1uZXdzJnJhbmdlPQ==
This will be Lucy's first ever international vest.
Details here - www.englandathletics.org/england-athletics-news/england-ready-for-inaugural-commonwealth-half-marathon-championships?returnLink=bmV3cy5hc3B4P3NpdGVzZWN0aW9uaWQ9NDImc2l0ZXNlY3Rpb250aXRsZT1FbmdsYW5kK0F0aGxldGljcytOZXdzJm9yaWdpbmFscGF0aD1lbmdsYW5kLWF0aGxldGljcy1uZXdzJnJhbmdlPQ==
Lucy Reid has gained her first international selection for England
Southern Counties Veterans League Final, at Ashford, Sunday 30th September
Both the TAC men and women had qualified for the league final, with the women taking a fine 2nd place and the men a very close 3rd place.
There were some impressive performances from the distance runners -
Maria Heslop is one of the few athletes who can be competitive at a younger age group, aswell as her own and she did this on Sunday. She comfortably won the over 50 women’s 3000 metres in 10.41.06 and also won the over 35’s 1500 m in 4.56.14. Before all of that she was second over 800m in 2.26.5, in the younger age group. Both her 800m and 1500m times were pbs.
Adam Roeder won a "tactically brilliant" (according to coach Pete Mason) B string m35 800m, whilst Antonia Skerritt (w35, B string 800m) and Nichola Evans (w35, B string 1500m) did likewise.
Claire Day won the B string w35, 3000m in 11.09.60, which was a big pb, by almost 12 seconds.
Mark Pitcairn-Knowles is loading some of the event videos on his YouTube channel at -
www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GJ4G-GE_1V_TuF7_tBtmQ
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
There were some impressive performances from the distance runners -
Maria Heslop is one of the few athletes who can be competitive at a younger age group, aswell as her own and she did this on Sunday. She comfortably won the over 50 women’s 3000 metres in 10.41.06 and also won the over 35’s 1500 m in 4.56.14. Before all of that she was second over 800m in 2.26.5, in the younger age group. Both her 800m and 1500m times were pbs.
Adam Roeder won a "tactically brilliant" (according to coach Pete Mason) B string m35 800m, whilst Antonia Skerritt (w35, B string 800m) and Nichola Evans (w35, B string 1500m) did likewise.
Claire Day won the B string w35, 3000m in 11.09.60, which was a big pb, by almost 12 seconds.
Mark Pitcairn-Knowles is loading some of the event videos on his YouTube channel at -
www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GJ4G-GE_1V_TuF7_tBtmQ
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
The TAC veterans squad at Ashford
Weekend News, Friday 28th and Sunday 30th September
Friday
Nuttycombe Wisconsin Invitational, Wisconsin USA
Chris Olley ran in one of the highest class cross country races in the USA on Friday. At nearing the halfway stage he had to stop and replace a shoe that was coming off and lost 10 to 15s, plus some momentum. Dropping to around 80th he clawed his way back to 38th at the finish, running 23.54 for the 8 kilometres.
Full results are here - s3.amazonaws.com/sidearm.sites/uwbadgers.com/documents/2018/9/28/men.pdf
Saturday
Cotswold Classic 10 mile road race, Malmesbury, Wiltshire
Anthony Bennett finished 8th in this 10 mile race in 60.48. This was his debut at the distance.
Full results are here - dbmaxresults.co.uk/results.aspx?CId=16421&RId=2233
Sunday
East Grinstead 10k trail race
Harry Lawson finished 2nd in 35.14, improving his time from 36.06 last year.
Full results will appear here - www.nice-work.org.uk/races/the-east-grinstead-10k/2018
Nuttycombe Wisconsin Invitational, Wisconsin USA
Chris Olley ran in one of the highest class cross country races in the USA on Friday. At nearing the halfway stage he had to stop and replace a shoe that was coming off and lost 10 to 15s, plus some momentum. Dropping to around 80th he clawed his way back to 38th at the finish, running 23.54 for the 8 kilometres.
Full results are here - s3.amazonaws.com/sidearm.sites/uwbadgers.com/documents/2018/9/28/men.pdf
Saturday
Cotswold Classic 10 mile road race, Malmesbury, Wiltshire
Anthony Bennett finished 8th in this 10 mile race in 60.48. This was his debut at the distance.
Full results are here - dbmaxresults.co.uk/results.aspx?CId=16421&RId=2233
Sunday
East Grinstead 10k trail race
Harry Lawson finished 2nd in 35.14, improving his time from 36.06 last year.
Full results will appear here - www.nice-work.org.uk/races/the-east-grinstead-10k/2018
Harry Lawson (right) finished 2nd at the East Grinstead 10km Trail Race
Bloomberg Square Mile Relay, London, Thursday 27th September
Lucy Reid ran 5.11 for the JP Morgan team that won the mixed relay.
Results will appear here - squaremilerelay.com/results/individuals
Results will appear here - squaremilerelay.com/results/individuals
South of England Road Relay Championships, at Crystal Palace, Sunday 23rd September
Videos loading !
A brief summary of results -
1st under 13 Girls (Lily Slack, Sophie Slack, Olivia Breed)
Lily Slack fastest lap
It was the first win for a TAC female team at the championships since 1986.
2nd Senior Men (Corey De'Ath, Max Nicholls, Ryan Driscoll, Henry Pearce, Dom Brown, George Duggan)
Henry Pearce 2nd fastest lap
It was the third year in a row that TAC have finished 2nd.
The B, C and D teams were first of their type.
2nd Under 17 men (Fraser Gordon, Adam Van der Plas, James Kingston, Toby Emm). James Kingston was 6th fastest lap.
3rd Under 15 Boys (Fenton Davoren, Henry Taylor, Fin Croll, Matthew Taylor ) - silver medals as two Aldershot teams ahead
TAC were also 2nd B team. Matthew Taylor was 6th fastest lap.
11th Under 17 Women and Katie Goodge ran the 2nd fastest lap.
11th Under 13 Boys. Albert Kreuzberg was 8th fastest lap.
13th Under 15 Girls
32nd Senior Women
5th Over 40 women - Maria Heslop fastest lap
11th Over 50 men
Full results can be found here - www.seaa.org.uk/index.php/results/road-running
Also on the Results 2018 page
Photos - www.facebook.com/mark.hookway.5/media_set?set=a.10156571056754788&type=3
1st under 13 Girls (Lily Slack, Sophie Slack, Olivia Breed)
Lily Slack fastest lap
It was the first win for a TAC female team at the championships since 1986.
2nd Senior Men (Corey De'Ath, Max Nicholls, Ryan Driscoll, Henry Pearce, Dom Brown, George Duggan)
Henry Pearce 2nd fastest lap
It was the third year in a row that TAC have finished 2nd.
The B, C and D teams were first of their type.
2nd Under 17 men (Fraser Gordon, Adam Van der Plas, James Kingston, Toby Emm). James Kingston was 6th fastest lap.
3rd Under 15 Boys (Fenton Davoren, Henry Taylor, Fin Croll, Matthew Taylor ) - silver medals as two Aldershot teams ahead
TAC were also 2nd B team. Matthew Taylor was 6th fastest lap.
11th Under 17 Women and Katie Goodge ran the 2nd fastest lap.
11th Under 13 Boys. Albert Kreuzberg was 8th fastest lap.
13th Under 15 Girls
32nd Senior Women
5th Over 40 women - Maria Heslop fastest lap
11th Over 50 men
Full results can be found here - www.seaa.org.uk/index.php/results/road-running
Also on the Results 2018 page
Photos - www.facebook.com/mark.hookway.5/media_set?set=a.10156571056754788&type=3
Under 13 Girls
Senior men
Under 15 Boys and Under 17 men
Hospice in the Weald 10k road race, Sunday 23rd September
James Price won this road race in 35.31. Tracey Horne was First female in 44.22.
Full results are here - racetimingsolutions.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16269&RId=970
Joe Watts finished 3rd at the Hever Half Marathon Trail race.
Results here - www.stuweb.co.uk/race/22Y/
Full results are here - racetimingsolutions.racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16269&RId=970
Joe Watts finished 3rd at the Hever Half Marathon Trail race.
Results here - www.stuweb.co.uk/race/22Y/
Kent Masters and Under 13 Championships, at Erith, Saturday 22nd September
1200 metres - Lily Slack won the under 13 title in 3.54.44.
5000 metres - Dan Madams won the over 40s title in around 16.40
Results not yet available
5000 metres - Dan Madams won the over 40s title in around 16.40
Results not yet available
Bill Dellinger Invitational Cross Country Meeting, Oregon, USA, Friday 21st September
James West finished 9th in a race that was a bit over 8km.
Full results are here - live.recordtiming.com/meets/1503/xc-scoreboard
Report here - goducks.com/index.aspx?path=cross
Full results are here - live.recordtiming.com/meets/1503/xc-scoreboard
Report here - goducks.com/index.aspx?path=cross
Other weekend news, Saturday and Sunday 15th/16th September
Saturday
Parkrun
Steve Fennell ran a swift 16.05 to be first home at Tonbridge. All the parkrun results from TAC athletes can be found here -
www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/?clubNum=2404
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth Invitational Cross Country
Charlie Joslin-Allen made his first appearance for The American International College when placing 24th in this 8km event in 25.49. A few details can be found here -
aicyellowjackets.com/news/2018/9/15/clark-paces-mens-cross-country-at-umass-dartmouth-invite.aspx
Sunday
Copenhagen Half Marathon, Denmark
Ben Cole ran 68.49 in the Copenhagen Half Marathon, less than a minute from his pb. Ben finished 57th. Results -
resultater.cphhalf.dk/runner/category/all
Faversham 10km road race
Christian Smith won this road race by two minutes in 34.32.
Christian is due to race in the South of England Road Relays next weekend for one of the TAC mens teams.
Results are here - www.chiptiminguk.co.uk/results/faversham-10k
Kent Track Relay Championships, at Gillingham
I believe TAC had some teams in these relay championships, with the longer distance being over 3x800 metres. Am awaiting results. Lily Slack, Sophie Slack and Olivia Breed won the under 13 girls title in around 7.43. Albert Kreuzberg, Tim McLain and Ethan Rocks were second in the under 13 boys race.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
Parkrun
Steve Fennell ran a swift 16.05 to be first home at Tonbridge. All the parkrun results from TAC athletes can be found here -
www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/?clubNum=2404
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth Invitational Cross Country
Charlie Joslin-Allen made his first appearance for The American International College when placing 24th in this 8km event in 25.49. A few details can be found here -
aicyellowjackets.com/news/2018/9/15/clark-paces-mens-cross-country-at-umass-dartmouth-invite.aspx
Sunday
Copenhagen Half Marathon, Denmark
Ben Cole ran 68.49 in the Copenhagen Half Marathon, less than a minute from his pb. Ben finished 57th. Results -
resultater.cphhalf.dk/runner/category/all
Faversham 10km road race
Christian Smith won this road race by two minutes in 34.32.
Christian is due to race in the South of England Road Relays next weekend for one of the TAC mens teams.
Results are here - www.chiptiminguk.co.uk/results/faversham-10k
Kent Track Relay Championships, at Gillingham
I believe TAC had some teams in these relay championships, with the longer distance being over 3x800 metres. Am awaiting results. Lily Slack, Sophie Slack and Olivia Breed won the under 13 girls title in around 7.43. Albert Kreuzberg, Tim McLain and Ethan Rocks were second in the under 13 boys race.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
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Christian Smith wins Faversham 10k plus Olivia Breed, Sophie Slack, Lily Slack win Kent u13 girls 3x800m
World Mountain Running Championships, Andorra, Sunday 16th September
Max Nicholls finished 52nd in the World Mountain Running Championships, as he represented the Great Britain Men's team.
Full results are here -wmra.ch/files/News/OFFICIAL_RESULTATS.pdf
Full results are here -wmra.ch/files/News/OFFICIAL_RESULTATS.pdf
Max Nicholls at the World Mountain Running Championships
Great East Half Marathon, Ipswich, Sunday 16th September
Henry Pearce was not far outside his own TAC Half marathon record, when he won at Ipswich in 66.02.
His record and pb was set earlier in the year in London with 65.49. Results are here -
www.greatrun.org/myresults/full-search
His record and pb was set earlier in the year in London with 65.49. Results are here -
www.greatrun.org/myresults/full-search
Larkfield 10k road race, Sunday 16th September
Dan Bradley finished third at Larkfield in 33.36, just twelve seconds behind the winner. Luke Hooper ran 36.31 in 19th overall to smash his pb by 2 minutes and 43 seconds.
Maria Heslop ran 36.09 to win the women's race, set a pb and new TAC veterans record. It also moves Maria to 3rd on the UK all time women's list in the over 50 age group !
Full results are here - resultscui.active.com/events/larkfield10k
Maria Heslop ran 36.09 to win the women's race, set a pb and new TAC veterans record. It also moves Maria to 3rd on the UK all time women's list in the over 50 age group !
Full results are here - resultscui.active.com/events/larkfield10k
Diana Goldsmith, Claire Day, Maria Heslop and Nichola Evans at Larkfield
(photo nicked from TAC Vets Facebook page !)
(photo nicked from TAC Vets Facebook page !)
Blackheath and Bromley AC Will Bolton Memorial Relays
West Wickham, Saturday 15th September
Videos loaded !
Full results of all three races are now on the Results 2018 page.
Senior Race
Tonbridge AC dominated with the men finishing 1st , 2nd and 3rd as the three equally selected teams matched up well.
The ladies took 1st and 3rd, whilst Phoebe Barker and Ryan Driscoll recorded the fastest laps in the senior race.
Ryan and Corey De'Ath moved to first and second on the TAC all time list on this course.
Junior Race
The Tonbridge u15 boys and u13 girls were first home in their categories.
Matthew Taylor and Henry Taylor ran the two fastest laps, with 11.59 and 12.29. Ananjan Ganguli went off course at some stage so his time of 12.25 is not a valid one. He admitted the error straight after to officials.
Gracie MacAuley ran the fastest u13 girls lap, with Olivia Breed just a fraction slower.
Many thanks to all the runners and supporters who came along. Although it is quite a low key event many said how much they enjoyed it and its a great way of getting to see our runners in early season action. It was very impressive how everyone turned up on time, registered and got on with it. Many thanks particularly to Julie Goodge who helped organise the junior squads.
I will be working on the race videos later on Sunday.
Plenty of photos are available at - www.facebook.com/mark.hookway.5/media_set?set=a.10156549699214788&type=3&uploaded=216
Senior Race
Tonbridge AC dominated with the men finishing 1st , 2nd and 3rd as the three equally selected teams matched up well.
The ladies took 1st and 3rd, whilst Phoebe Barker and Ryan Driscoll recorded the fastest laps in the senior race.
Ryan and Corey De'Ath moved to first and second on the TAC all time list on this course.
Junior Race
The Tonbridge u15 boys and u13 girls were first home in their categories.
Matthew Taylor and Henry Taylor ran the two fastest laps, with 11.59 and 12.29. Ananjan Ganguli went off course at some stage so his time of 12.25 is not a valid one. He admitted the error straight after to officials.
Gracie MacAuley ran the fastest u13 girls lap, with Olivia Breed just a fraction slower.
Many thanks to all the runners and supporters who came along. Although it is quite a low key event many said how much they enjoyed it and its a great way of getting to see our runners in early season action. It was very impressive how everyone turned up on time, registered and got on with it. Many thanks particularly to Julie Goodge who helped organise the junior squads.
I will be working on the race videos later on Sunday.
Plenty of photos are available at - www.facebook.com/mark.hookway.5/media_set?set=a.10156549699214788&type=3&uploaded=216
Winning men's and women's team plus Ryan Driscoll and Phoebe Barker with the fastest laps
A few photos from the senior race
A few photos from the Junior race
Other weekend news, Saturday and Sunday 8th/9th September
Saturday
Dan Watt ran 34.24 in the Prague 10k, which was the race in which Rhonex Kipruoto ran a ridiculous 26.46, for a world under 20 record ! Full results are here -
www.runczech.com/srv/www/qf/en/ramjet/resultsEventDetail?eventId=21453&frm.subeventId=21454&page=1&per_page=15&sort=finishTime
Sunday
Great North Run, Half Marathon
JulianRendall 40th 75.26 (1st in the M40 category), Elise Rendall 1.37.43, Rachel Fagg 1.48.39
Results are here - www.greatrun.org/myresults/name-search/785/rendall
Swindon Half Marathon
Ben Cole finished 2nd in the Swindon Half Marathon, running 70.19. Ben was running for his second claim club.
Full results are here - dbmaxresults.co.uk/results.aspx?CId=16421&RId=219
Dan Watt ran 34.24 in the Prague 10k, which was the race in which Rhonex Kipruoto ran a ridiculous 26.46, for a world under 20 record ! Full results are here -
www.runczech.com/srv/www/qf/en/ramjet/resultsEventDetail?eventId=21453&frm.subeventId=21454&page=1&per_page=15&sort=finishTime
Sunday
Great North Run, Half Marathon
JulianRendall 40th 75.26 (1st in the M40 category), Elise Rendall 1.37.43, Rachel Fagg 1.48.39
Results are here - www.greatrun.org/myresults/name-search/785/rendall
Swindon Half Marathon
Ben Cole finished 2nd in the Swindon Half Marathon, running 70.19. Ben was running for his second claim club.
Full results are here - dbmaxresults.co.uk/results.aspx?CId=16421&RId=219
Eridge 10 mile Trail Challenge, Sunday 9th September
Lucy Reid was the overall winner of the Eridge 10 in 67.04, ahead of Nicole Taylor with 68.47.
The women's race was dominated by TAC with Lucy Reid, Nicole Taylor and Kiri Marsh finishing 123, with Kiri 10th overall in 76.33.
Richard Bamford was 123rd in 1.37.37 and Duncan Ralph 144th in 1.40.16
The women's race was dominated by TAC with Lucy Reid, Nicole Taylor and Kiri Marsh finishing 123, with Kiri 10th overall in 76.33.
Richard Bamford was 123rd in 1.37.37 and Duncan Ralph 144th in 1.40.16
Junior Great North Run, Saturday 8th September
Lily Slack won the under 13 girls race at the Junior Great North Run in 15.03, with sister Sophie in fourth, with 15.40
Sophie and Lily Slack after the Great North Junior Run
Jungfrau Marathon, Switzerland, Saturday 8th September
Greg Cole likes an outdoor challenge to say the least and ran the Jungfrau Marathon in 4.19.37 to place 295th. The race was one by GBs Robbie Simpson in 2.56.31. You can tell by the times that its not flat !
Full results can be found here - www.jungfrau-marathon.ch/en/results.html
Full results can be found here - www.jungfrau-marathon.ch/en/results.html
Greg Cole after the Jungfrau Marathon (the course didn't go to the summit of what's behind him !)
Training session at One Tree Hill, near Underriver, Saturday 8th September
A nice mix of 31 runners came along to train at One Tree Hill, rating from under 13s to seniors.
A summary is on the Training Completed page.
A summary is on the Training Completed page.
Some of the training group at One Tree Hill on Saturday morning
Tonbridge AC 'Junior' 1 mile cross country races 2018/19
The dates have been announced for this season's 1 mile races, which will mainly be held at Vizards sports fields, near Lower Hayesden ie the new Judd school facility. However, the first event is 27th October before the Kent Cross Country League, at The Schools at Somerhill. Details are below -
| tac_junior_1_mile_races_2018-2019.pdf |
James West wins Oregon Cross Country Race, Thursday 6th September
James West returned to university at Oregon, USA and within a week has won his first race back.
James won the Oregon Cross Country Preview 7km Trail race in a sprint finish, recording 21.49.
Report and results here - goducks.com/news/2018/9/6/cross-country-west-ejore-defend-home-turf-at-oregon-xc-preview.aspx
James won the Oregon Cross Country Preview 7km Trail race in a sprint finish, recording 21.49.
Report and results here - goducks.com/news/2018/9/6/cross-country-west-ejore-defend-home-turf-at-oregon-xc-preview.aspx
James West sprints for the win in Oregon
Sue James helps GB women win team title at World Masters Championships
Malaga, Thursday 6th September
Sue James finished 8th in the over 65 womens cross country race at the World Masters Athletics championships in Malaga, Spain. Sue was in the GB scoring three that won the gold medals.
The result is here - results.simplyregister.net/Malaga2018/r/X9215.html
The result is here - results.simplyregister.net/Malaga2018/r/X9215.html
Sue James (centre) with the winning GB team)
Harry Paton wins National Police 10 mile road championship , Wednesday 5th September
Harry Paton ran 55.00 to win the National Police Force 10 mile championship today.
Sunday news 2nd September
Cardiff 10k
Henry Pearce set a new personal best of 29.33 when finishing 4th in the top class Cardiff 10k, on Sunday morning.
Full results are here (the person showing as second, Richie Powell is an error).
www.tdleventservices.co.uk/event-results/events
Weald St Georges 10k (and 2k)
Will Beeston finished 3rd in this local 10k in 36.54
Maria Heslop was first female in 38.35, finishing 6th overall
Jamie Bingham was 16th in 40.35
There were a number of TAC members in the junior 2k, with Beatrice Heslop being the first girl home. James Petrie, who is still only nine, finished second overall.
Results of both events are here - results.sporthive.com/events/6440846662045926400
Kent Coastal Half Marathon
Tony Bennett was 4th in 81.48
Full results are at - www.uksportstiming.co.uk/Results/kent_2018/half_results.xlsx
Henry Pearce set a new personal best of 29.33 when finishing 4th in the top class Cardiff 10k, on Sunday morning.
Full results are here (the person showing as second, Richie Powell is an error).
www.tdleventservices.co.uk/event-results/events
Weald St Georges 10k (and 2k)
Will Beeston finished 3rd in this local 10k in 36.54
Maria Heslop was first female in 38.35, finishing 6th overall
Jamie Bingham was 16th in 40.35
There were a number of TAC members in the junior 2k, with Beatrice Heslop being the first girl home. James Petrie, who is still only nine, finished second overall.
Results of both events are here - results.sporthive.com/events/6440846662045926400
Kent Coastal Half Marathon
Tony Bennett was 4th in 81.48
Full results are at - www.uksportstiming.co.uk/Results/kent_2018/half_results.xlsx
Maria and Beatrice Heslop both winners at Weal on Sunday
Saturday news 1st September and
Tonbridge parkrun
Julian Rendall notched up another 'win', whilst there was some good running from Simon Fraser, Ed Coutts (u15), Albert Kreuzberg (u13) and others not far behind.
Other parkruns
Ben Cole was first home at Swindon in 16.01, just three seconds away from his best there.
James Kingston (u17) was first home at the Isle of Wight in 17.43
A summary of all TAC park runs at the weekend can be found here -
www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/?clubNum=2404
UK School Games, at Loughborough
Katie Goodge (u17) finished 3rd in the 3000m, representing the South of England. Katie ran 10.12.32, about 10s outside her pb. Full results are at - www.schoolgamesfinals.org/sports/athletics/athletics-results/athletics-results/
University of San Francisco Invitational Cross Country meeting
Chris Olley had a very good debut by finishing 2nd over the 8km course in 24.36.
Full results are here - live.recordtiming.com/meets/1398/xc-scoreboard
Report here - usfdons.com/news/2018/9/1/cross-country-xc-dons-post-strong-debuts-at-usf-invitational.aspx
South of England Inter Counties, under 15 and under 20, at Horspath, near Oxford
Sam Crick won the under 20 men's 2000m steeplechase in 6.16.42 and his brother Charlie qualified for the 800m final in 2.01.80, then finishing 5th in the final with 2.01.02.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Olympic Park 10km road race
Holly Gordon (u20) ran 48.54 over 10km in her debut at the distance.
Full results are at - racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16586&RId=294
Julian Rendall notched up another 'win', whilst there was some good running from Simon Fraser, Ed Coutts (u15), Albert Kreuzberg (u13) and others not far behind.
Other parkruns
Ben Cole was first home at Swindon in 16.01, just three seconds away from his best there.
James Kingston (u17) was first home at the Isle of Wight in 17.43
A summary of all TAC park runs at the weekend can be found here -
www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/?clubNum=2404
UK School Games, at Loughborough
Katie Goodge (u17) finished 3rd in the 3000m, representing the South of England. Katie ran 10.12.32, about 10s outside her pb. Full results are at - www.schoolgamesfinals.org/sports/athletics/athletics-results/athletics-results/
University of San Francisco Invitational Cross Country meeting
Chris Olley had a very good debut by finishing 2nd over the 8km course in 24.36.
Full results are here - live.recordtiming.com/meets/1398/xc-scoreboard
Report here - usfdons.com/news/2018/9/1/cross-country-xc-dons-post-strong-debuts-at-usf-invitational.aspx
South of England Inter Counties, under 15 and under 20, at Horspath, near Oxford
Sam Crick won the under 20 men's 2000m steeplechase in 6.16.42 and his brother Charlie qualified for the 800m final in 2.01.80, then finishing 5th in the final with 2.01.02.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Olympic Park 10km road race
Holly Gordon (u20) ran 48.54 over 10km in her debut at the distance.
Full results are at - racetecresults.com/results.aspx?CId=16586&RId=294
Chris Olley (223) on his way to second place at the San Francisco Invitational on Saturday
Katie Goodge competing for the South of England at UK School Games
Simon Fraser, Toby Ryan and Ed Coutts at the Tonbridge parkrun
Dartford Harriers Open Meeting, Monday 27th August
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
There were a few TAC distance runners in action with Adam Roeder (see below) yet again extending his pb sequence at 800m.
There were a few TAC distance runners in action with Adam Roeder (see below) yet again extending his pb sequence at 800m.
Weekend news Saturday 25th August and Sunday 26th August
Tonbridge parkrun
The Tonbridge parkrun continues to flourish with between five and six hundred runners this week, despite it being a Bank Holiday weekend. Dan Bradley was first home in 16.41, ahead of Julian Rendall, on a glorious morning.
Adam Roeder added to his recent string of pbs by lowering his parkrun best (official times awaited), following two 800s and a 1500m last week !
Other parkruns
There were a number of TAC 'wins' around the country -
Tunbridge Wells - Dan Watt 18.07, Lottie Richardson 21.20
Isle of Wight - James Kingston (u17) 17.24
Derry - Matthew Taylor (u15) 17.40
Swindon - Ben Cole 16.16
Portsmouth - Fraser Gordon (u17) 17.19
Great Lines - Nichola Evans 21.11
Malling - Alex Crockford 21.44
Richmond - Nick Barrable 17.20
National under 15 and 17 Championships at Bedford
Katie Goodge was the sole TAC distance runner in action and ran in the under 17 womens 1500m final.
Katie was 9th in 4.46.01
Full results are posted here - resultsengland.athletics-uk.org/resultsengland/
The Tonbridge parkrun continues to flourish with between five and six hundred runners this week, despite it being a Bank Holiday weekend. Dan Bradley was first home in 16.41, ahead of Julian Rendall, on a glorious morning.
Adam Roeder added to his recent string of pbs by lowering his parkrun best (official times awaited), following two 800s and a 1500m last week !
Other parkruns
There were a number of TAC 'wins' around the country -
Tunbridge Wells - Dan Watt 18.07, Lottie Richardson 21.20
Isle of Wight - James Kingston (u17) 17.24
Derry - Matthew Taylor (u15) 17.40
Swindon - Ben Cole 16.16
Portsmouth - Fraser Gordon (u17) 17.19
Great Lines - Nichola Evans 21.11
Malling - Alex Crockford 21.44
Richmond - Nick Barrable 17.20
National under 15 and 17 Championships at Bedford
Katie Goodge was the sole TAC distance runner in action and ran in the under 17 womens 1500m final.
Katie was 9th in 4.46.01
Full results are posted here - resultsengland.athletics-uk.org/resultsengland/
National Masters Championships, at Birmingham, Saturday/Sunday
A few TAC distance runners were in action -
400m Lisa Knight - 2nd W45 in 67.61 pb
1500m Sue James - 5th W65 in 7.27.30
5000m Ben Reynolds - 2nd M50 in 16.20
400m Lisa Knight - 2nd W45 in 67.61 pb
1500m Sue James - 5th W65 in 7.27.30
5000m Ben Reynolds - 2nd M50 in 16.20
Watford Open Meeting, Wednesday 22nd August
There were three TAC distance runners in action at Watford, on Wednesday evening.
Dan Seagrove (u20) ran 4.09.98 for 1500m, which was a seasons best.
Over 3000m Kiri Marsh (senior) ran 9.57.20 (0.9s pb) and Maddie Wise (u15) ran 11.01.23 (4.2s pb).
Dan Seagrove (u20) ran 4.09.98 for 1500m, which was a seasons best.
Over 3000m Kiri Marsh (senior) ran 9.57.20 (0.9s pb) and Maddie Wise (u15) ran 11.01.23 (4.2s pb).
This week's 'Big Hitters' - 8th to 20th August
A slightly longer period than a week, as its been quieter, but here are a few performances to recognise -
800 metres
Ryan Driscoll (senior) 1.54.17 (improvement by 0.9s)
Adam Roeder (m35) has improved to 2.15.5 chipping away at it and producing 9 pbs in a row !
5000 metres
Lucy Reid (senior) 16.09.96 (improvement by 10.8s)
2000 metres steeplechase
Elizabeth Heslop (u17) 8.09.8 (improvement by 42.9s)
TAC Club record
5000 metres
Lucy Reid (senior) 16.09.96 (broke Nicole Taylor's previous mark of 16.17.57)
800 metres
Ryan Driscoll (senior) 1.54.17 (improvement by 0.9s)
Adam Roeder (m35) has improved to 2.15.5 chipping away at it and producing 9 pbs in a row !
5000 metres
Lucy Reid (senior) 16.09.96 (improvement by 10.8s)
2000 metres steeplechase
Elizabeth Heslop (u17) 8.09.8 (improvement by 42.9s)
TAC Club record
5000 metres
Lucy Reid (senior) 16.09.96 (broke Nicole Taylor's previous mark of 16.17.57)
Southern Athletics League at Thurrock, Saturday 18th August
Videos Loaded !
Tonbridge AC took a convincing win in the final match of the Southern League Division 2 East season.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
There was good support from the distance runners, with some just filling in and having a good run for the points.
A few highlights -
Elizabeth Heslop has taken almost a minute off her 2000m steeplechase pb in the last year. Luciana Anderson bravely cracked on in the same race, despite getting very wet !
Tom Richards finally dipped under 2 minutes for 800m.
Michael Ellis (1500m and steeplechase) and Harry Paton (5k and steeplechase) put in good shifts for the team.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
There was good support from the distance runners, with some just filling in and having a good run for the points.
A few highlights -
Elizabeth Heslop has taken almost a minute off her 2000m steeplechase pb in the last year. Luciana Anderson bravely cracked on in the same race, despite getting very wet !
Tom Richards finally dipped under 2 minutes for 800m.
Michael Ellis (1500m and steeplechase) and Harry Paton (5k and steeplechase) put in good shifts for the team.
Other Saturday news, 18th August
British Milers Club Grand Prix, at Trafford
Ryan Driscoll was the only TAC competitor, having his final track race of the season. Ryan finished 9th in the A race 1500m in 3.50.34, just doing in the last 200m
Parkruns
Jamie Bryant ran 16.26 at Tunbridge Wells, which was just 14 seconds away from the course record.
Ben Cole was first home at Swindon in 16.37
James Kingston first home at Kingston (!) in 16.58
The fastest TAC female was Lily Slack who was 4th in Jersey in 21.05
Ryan Driscoll was the only TAC competitor, having his final track race of the season. Ryan finished 9th in the A race 1500m in 3.50.34, just doing in the last 200m
Parkruns
Jamie Bryant ran 16.26 at Tunbridge Wells, which was just 14 seconds away from the course record.
Ben Cole was first home at Swindon in 16.37
James Kingston first home at Kingston (!) in 16.58
The fastest TAC female was Lily Slack who was 4th in Jersey in 21.05
British Milers Club and Cambridge Harriers Meeting, at Eltham, Wednesday 15th August
Videos loaded !
There were quite a few TAC distance runners in action at Eltham, with racing, pacing or both.
Sean Molloy finished 4th in the Sydney Wooderson Memorial 800m, running 1.49.94, in a hotly contested race.
Other highlights included an 800m win and a new pb for Ryan Driscoll in 1.54.17, taking 0.9s from his best, whilst Cameron Payas ran a seasons best of 1.55.56 in the same race.
It was also good to see Dan Seagrove (u20) run a seasons best of 1.59.21, after a spell of injury, illness and exams.
Sean Molloy finished 4th in the Sydney Wooderson Memorial 800m, running 1.49.94, in a hotly contested race.
Other highlights included an 800m win and a new pb for Ryan Driscoll in 1.54.17, taking 0.9s from his best, whilst Cameron Payas ran a seasons best of 1.55.56 in the same race.
It was also good to see Dan Seagrove (u20) run a seasons best of 1.59.21, after a spell of injury, illness and exams.
Hercules Wimbledon 5000 metres Festival Night, Wednesday 15th August
Lucy Reid Sets Tonbridge AC 5000m record
Lucy Reid ran a terrific 16.09.96 at Wimbledon on Wednesday evening to smash the Tonbridge AC women's club record, which stood to Nicole Taylor at 16.17.57, set in May. It represented a 10.8s improvement for Lucy and probably moves her into the UKs top 25 for 2018.
Lucy Reid set a new TAC womens 5000m record of 16.09.96 on Wednesday evening
Blackheath and Bromley Open Meeting, Monday 13th August
TAC distance runners in action -
Tom Richards 800m 2.00.51 still aiming to break 2 minutes
Adam Roeder (m35) 800m 2.15.80 - won his race and set a pb
Ananjan Gangulu (u15) 800m 2.22.66 - just missed his pb
Alan Buckle (m55) 800m 2.30.05 - season best
Tom Richards 800m 2.00.51 still aiming to break 2 minutes
Adam Roeder (m35) 800m 2.15.80 - won his race and set a pb
Ananjan Gangulu (u15) 800m 2.22.66 - just missed his pb
Alan Buckle (m55) 800m 2.30.05 - season best
Baby Micah Taylor arrives !
Congratulations to James (JT) and Megan Taylor on the birth of baby Micah.
Blackheath and Bromley Open Meeting, Monday 13th August
Tom Richards (senior) ran 2.00.5 for 800m to again just miss out on that elusive sub 2 clocking.
'Weekend' results 9th to 12th August
Thursday 9th August
Ballater Highland Games Hill Race, Forres, Scotland
Alice Wood was 4th female in this race, whilst on holiday in Scotland.
Results are at - www.webscorer.com/racedetails?raceid=146420&gender=F
Saturday
British Milers Club Milton Keynes 5000m
Ben Cole finished 9th in the B race with 15.03.80
Parkrun
I think that Julian Rendall 17.06 and Phoebe Barker 18.00 were the fastest TAC park runners at the weekend and both of these were at Tonbridge.
Sunday
Borth Beach 10k, Aberystwyth, Wales
Dan Watt won this very unusual 10k race in 36.35, finishing a minute and a half clear of the runner up.
So why is it 'unusual' ? Because the entire race is run on the beach !
Below is a photo supplied by Dan.
Ballater Highland Games Hill Race, Forres, Scotland
Alice Wood was 4th female in this race, whilst on holiday in Scotland.
Results are at - www.webscorer.com/racedetails?raceid=146420&gender=F
Saturday
British Milers Club Milton Keynes 5000m
Ben Cole finished 9th in the B race with 15.03.80
Parkrun
I think that Julian Rendall 17.06 and Phoebe Barker 18.00 were the fastest TAC park runners at the weekend and both of these were at Tonbridge.
Sunday
Borth Beach 10k, Aberystwyth, Wales
Dan Watt won this very unusual 10k race in 36.35, finishing a minute and a half clear of the runner up.
So why is it 'unusual' ? Because the entire race is run on the beach !
Below is a photo supplied by Dan.
Dan Watt leads the Birth 10k on Sunday !
Dominic Brown visits Uganda and reports on a project for disadvantaged runners
Dom Brown, who is studying medicine at Sheffield University, visited Uganda in July and experienced working in a hospital there.
Coincidentally, not long before this, some of us had been introduced to a project based not far from where Dom was staying.
It is a project run by Mukasa Edward, a good athlete himself, who is desperately trying to provide opportunity for poor and disadvantaged young people and develop their running and athletics.
Richard Owen and Phoebe Barker visited Uganda a year or so ago and will testify how huge the disparity is between the wealthy and the poor.
Personally I (Mark Hookway) collected a significant amount of second hand kit that I would like to send out to Uganda, but to date have yet to find an efficient and economical shipping method. So in the meantime I am hoping some will be willing and able to help the project by making a donation.
Dom's two page report is available in the file below and you can also read a little about the project here -
www.giveasportingchance.org
Coincidentally, not long before this, some of us had been introduced to a project based not far from where Dom was staying.
It is a project run by Mukasa Edward, a good athlete himself, who is desperately trying to provide opportunity for poor and disadvantaged young people and develop their running and athletics.
Richard Owen and Phoebe Barker visited Uganda a year or so ago and will testify how huge the disparity is between the wealthy and the poor.
Personally I (Mark Hookway) collected a significant amount of second hand kit that I would like to send out to Uganda, but to date have yet to find an efficient and economical shipping method. So in the meantime I am hoping some will be willing and able to help the project by making a donation.
Dom's two page report is available in the file below and you can also read a little about the project here -
www.giveasportingchance.org
| dom_brown_visit_to_uganda_report_july_2018.pdf |
Dom Brown (left) with Mukasa Edward (right) and one of the supporters of the project who is a head teacher (centre)
They even make their own bricks in preparation for building the accommodation !
Max Nicholls selected for Great Britain at Mountain Running World Championships
Max Nicholls has been selected to represent Great Britain at the World Mountain Running Championships.
The championships take place in Andorra on 16th September.
The British Athletics announcement can be found here -
www.britishathletics.org.uk/news-and-features/world-mountain-running-champs-team-announced/
The championships take place in Andorra on 16th September.
The British Athletics announcement can be found here -
www.britishathletics.org.uk/news-and-features/world-mountain-running-champs-team-announced/
Max Nicholls - Another GB Mountain Running selection
Watford Open Meeting, including British Milers Club Gold Standard races, Wednesday 8th August
Videos loaded !
There were four TAC distance runners in action at Watford and all had solid runs, although no pbs.
Ryan Driscoll finished third in the British Milers Club B race with 3.48.15
Then in the open 800m races Cameron Payas ran 1.56.38, Dan Seagrove (u20) 1.59.22, Toby Emm (u17) 2.01.25
The times were seasons bests for both Cameron and Dan.
Ryan Driscoll finished third in the British Milers Club B race with 3.48.15
Then in the open 800m races Cameron Payas ran 1.56.38, Dan Seagrove (u20) 1.59.22, Toby Emm (u17) 2.01.25
The times were seasons bests for both Cameron and Dan.
Tom Holden interview with 'Let's Get Running'
I know a few of you have been following carefully Tom Holden's progress since his accident at the end of May 2017.
In the last week he completed a podcast interview with Shaun Dixon, who runs for Highgate Harriers. Shaun has a podcast called 'Let's Get Running' and Tom is on episode 51. The link is here -
www.letsgetrunning.co.uk/podcast/tom-holden?locale=en
Introduction - On this week's show we talk to the inspirational Tom Holden. In May 2017 Tom, a GB Junior international athlete, was involved in an accident which caused damage to his brain affecting his movement and speech. Doctors thought it was unlikely Tom would walk again, but incredibly Tom has fought back- and is slowly starting to learn to run again. He speaks about how the love and support shown by his family, friends and fellow runners has kept his going. He still has a long way to go but his positivity is infectious.
In the last week he completed a podcast interview with Shaun Dixon, who runs for Highgate Harriers. Shaun has a podcast called 'Let's Get Running' and Tom is on episode 51. The link is here -
www.letsgetrunning.co.uk/podcast/tom-holden?locale=en
Introduction - On this week's show we talk to the inspirational Tom Holden. In May 2017 Tom, a GB Junior international athlete, was involved in an accident which caused damage to his brain affecting his movement and speech. Doctors thought it was unlikely Tom would walk again, but incredibly Tom has fought back- and is slowly starting to learn to run again. He speaks about how the love and support shown by his family, friends and fellow runners has kept his going. He still has a long way to go but his positivity is infectious.
This week's 'Big Hitters' - 1st to 7th August
A few more improvers this week and all seniors, which is good to see -
800 metres
Ryan Driscoll (senior) 1.55.07 (improvement by 0.9s)
3000 metres
Lucy Reid (senior) 9.26.00 (improvement by 62.7s)
5000 metres
Jamie Bryant (senior) 15.06.14 (improvement by 7.5s)
400 metres hurdles
Tom Richards (senior) 59.20 (improvement by 0.9s)
TAC Club record
3000 metres
Nicole Taylor (senior) 9.12.41 (broke Ashley Gibson's previous mark of 9.24.82)
Ryan Driscoll (senior) 1.55.07 (improvement by 0.9s)
3000 metres
Lucy Reid (senior) 9.26.00 (improvement by 62.7s)
5000 metres
Jamie Bryant (senior) 15.06.14 (improvement by 7.5s)
400 metres hurdles
Tom Richards (senior) 59.20 (improvement by 0.9s)
TAC Club record
3000 metres
Nicole Taylor (senior) 9.12.41 (broke Ashley Gibson's previous mark of 9.24.82)
Other weekend news, Saturday and Sunday 4th and 5th August
Saturday
Parkruns
Dan Bradley was a 'parkrun tourist' as he finished 1st at Southsea in 16.19.
Ben Reynolds (2nd claim, M50) looks like he is returning to form, running 16.46 at Abingdon.
Julian Rendall 'won' at Tonbridge in 17.15 and Matthew Taylor (u15) at Tunbridge Wells in 17.54
Sunday
East Peckham 10k
Fraser Gordon (u17) and Tina Oldershaw (w50) won the male and female categories at this 10k, as almost 200 finished.
Fraser ran 36.06 and Tina 40.10, as TAC had nine of the top sixteen overall.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Great Britain Trial for World Mountain Running Championships, at Keswick
Max Nicholls finished 5th in the senior mens race. A team of four is selected but there is a chance one or two who were ahead in the trial do not have the championships in their plans.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Parkruns
Dan Bradley was a 'parkrun tourist' as he finished 1st at Southsea in 16.19.
Ben Reynolds (2nd claim, M50) looks like he is returning to form, running 16.46 at Abingdon.
Julian Rendall 'won' at Tonbridge in 17.15 and Matthew Taylor (u15) at Tunbridge Wells in 17.54
Sunday
East Peckham 10k
Fraser Gordon (u17) and Tina Oldershaw (w50) won the male and female categories at this 10k, as almost 200 finished.
Fraser ran 36.06 and Tina 40.10, as TAC had nine of the top sixteen overall.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Great Britain Trial for World Mountain Running Championships, at Keswick
Max Nicholls finished 5th in the senior mens race. A team of four is selected but there is a chance one or two who were ahead in the trial do not have the championships in their plans.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Fraser Gordon - East Peckham 10k win
Kent Young Athletes League, at Erith, Sunday 5th August
Provisional results are on the Results 2018 page.
British Athletics League, Division 4, at Nottingham, Saturday 4th August
Videos loaded !
The Tonbridge mens team have won division 4 of the league and been promoted, after their first season in the competition.
They finished second in the final match of the season, here. Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Once again TAC scored heavily in the track events.
George Duggan won the 800m A string in 1.53.24, with Ryan Driscoll (1.55.07) finishing 3rd in the B string race with a pb.
At 1500m Ally Kinloch was 2nd in the A string in 3.58.17, with Sean Molloy winning the B string in 4.02.62, just after finishing 2nd in the A string 400m with 50.06. Kieran Eland won the 400m B string in 50.89.
Jamie Bryant (15.06.14 pb) and Ben Cole (15.13.32) scored maximum points in the 5000 metres, as did Michael Ellis (10.16.80) and Greg Cole (10.51.22) in the 3000m steeplechase.
Starting off the track events Sam Crick (3rd A in 58.13) and Tom Richards (1st B 59.20) competed over 400m hurdles with Tom going sub 60 for the first time. Tom Richards (52.4), Kieran Eland (51.5), Sam Crick (51.3) and Sean Molloy (48.8) were 2nd on the 4x400m relay.
They finished second in the final match of the season, here. Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Once again TAC scored heavily in the track events.
George Duggan won the 800m A string in 1.53.24, with Ryan Driscoll (1.55.07) finishing 3rd in the B string race with a pb.
At 1500m Ally Kinloch was 2nd in the A string in 3.58.17, with Sean Molloy winning the B string in 4.02.62, just after finishing 2nd in the A string 400m with 50.06. Kieran Eland won the 400m B string in 50.89.
Jamie Bryant (15.06.14 pb) and Ben Cole (15.13.32) scored maximum points in the 5000 metres, as did Michael Ellis (10.16.80) and Greg Cole (10.51.22) in the 3000m steeplechase.
Starting off the track events Sam Crick (3rd A in 58.13) and Tom Richards (1st B 59.20) competed over 400m hurdles with Tom going sub 60 for the first time. Tom Richards (52.4), Kieran Eland (51.5), Sam Crick (51.3) and Sean Molloy (48.8) were 2nd on the 4x400m relay.
Hercules Wimbledon Meeting, Wednesday 1st August
Videos loaded !
The good weather returned and the TAC contingent took advantage to record some terrific times.
The highlight came from Nicole Taylor who lowered the TAC womens record to 9.12.41, improving it from Ashley Gibson's mark of 9.24.82, set last Summer. It was a pb from Nicole by 14.3s.
Lucy Reid ran 9.26.00 (pb by 62.7s)
Dan Madams (m45) 9.30.34 (best since 2012)
Kiri Marsh 9.58.21 (pb by 37.1s)
Graeme Saker (m55) 10.02.21 (seasons best)
Maddie Wise (u15) 11.05.40 (debut)
The highlight came from Nicole Taylor who lowered the TAC womens record to 9.12.41, improving it from Ashley Gibson's mark of 9.24.82, set last Summer. It was a pb from Nicole by 14.3s.
Lucy Reid ran 9.26.00 (pb by 62.7s)
Dan Madams (m45) 9.30.34 (best since 2012)
Kiri Marsh 9.58.21 (pb by 37.1s)
Graeme Saker (m55) 10.02.21 (seasons best)
Maddie Wise (u15) 11.05.40 (debut)
Bedgebury Summer Series 10k, Wednesday 1st August
Report from Angie Crush
A few of the vets ladies made a last minute decision to go to this tonight, Penny Pilbeam, Deniz Bowart and Kim Cross made up a team for the 10k and I was dragged to do the 5k and so made Huxley come with me. When he heard prizes were on offer he said he would run it too.
We had a lovely evening and Penny came third woman in the 10k even after doing an extra 400 or so when she went the wrong way, she also came first in her age category. Deniz was 5th woman home in the 10k and Kim 6th woman home. They won the team prize for tac! Results are on nice work website or on the summer series website.
Hux came 2nd in the 5k race in 20.59 which was good with those hills, and won me a bottle of wine, and then the guy from Nice Work gave him an extra fiver for himself because he felt bad he couldn’t benefit from the wine! So even though I didn’t win anything I got wine!
Overall we won 6 bottles and you will see below we tried to spell TAC with them for the photo!
Angie
Results are here - www.nice-work.org.uk/races/bedgebury-series-4/2018
We had a lovely evening and Penny came third woman in the 10k even after doing an extra 400 or so when she went the wrong way, she also came first in her age category. Deniz was 5th woman home in the 10k and Kim 6th woman home. They won the team prize for tac! Results are on nice work website or on the summer series website.
Hux came 2nd in the 5k race in 20.59 which was good with those hills, and won me a bottle of wine, and then the guy from Nice Work gave him an extra fiver for himself because he felt bad he couldn’t benefit from the wine! So even though I didn’t win anything I got wine!
Overall we won 6 bottles and you will see below we tried to spell TAC with them for the photo!
Angie
Results are here - www.nice-work.org.uk/races/bedgebury-series-4/2018
Circuit Training - Wednesdays
Circuit training is cancelled for 25th July and 1st August.
This week's 'Big Hitters' - 25th to 31st July
I am not sure that there were any more personal bests over the last few days other than this one by George.
3000m
George Duggan (senior) 8.14.95 (improvement by 4.5s)
3000m
George Duggan (senior) 8.14.95 (improvement by 4.5s)
UK Youth Development League (u17/20), at Ashford, Sunday 29th July
Videos loaded !
Very windy and wet conditions made it very difficult for athletes and officials, but the TAC team finished 4th of the 6 teams on the day and will remain in the division.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
Gary Goodge kindly filmed the races which are loaded under Race Videos Summer 2018.
Full results are on the Results 2018 page.
Gary Goodge kindly filmed the races which are loaded under Race Videos Summer 2018.
Other weekend news, Friday to Sunday 27th to 29th July
Friday
Soar Mile, at Stratford, London
Sean Molloy ran 4.13.11 to finish 4th in the Soar Mile, Elite race (race 12), on Friday.
Full results are here - www.soarrunning.com/journal-entry/soar-mile-2018-results
Saturday
Parkrun
Cameron Payas set a course record of 16.14 at Malling.
Marlow Fugitive Twilight 10k Run
Henry Pearce won this in an excellent 29.47.
Results here - www.stuweb.co.uk/race/21k/splits.html
England Athletics Championships, at Sports City, Manchester
Ben Murphy was eliminated in the heats of the 800 metres in 1.56.55 on a very windy day in Manchester. (Heat 3)
Full results are at - resultsengland.athletics-uk.org/resultsengland/
Video at - vinco.elasticbeanstalk.com/fixtures/12950-england-athletics-senior-aaa-and-uk-cau-inter-counties-championships
Under 13 Inter Counties at Kingston
There were a few TAC athletes in action including Albert Kreuzberg, George Hopkins, Lily Slack and Sophie Slack.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Soar Mile, at Stratford, London
Sean Molloy ran 4.13.11 to finish 4th in the Soar Mile, Elite race (race 12), on Friday.
Full results are here - www.soarrunning.com/journal-entry/soar-mile-2018-results
Saturday
Parkrun
Cameron Payas set a course record of 16.14 at Malling.
Marlow Fugitive Twilight 10k Run
Henry Pearce won this in an excellent 29.47.
Results here - www.stuweb.co.uk/race/21k/splits.html
England Athletics Championships, at Sports City, Manchester
Ben Murphy was eliminated in the heats of the 800 metres in 1.56.55 on a very windy day in Manchester. (Heat 3)
Full results are at - resultsengland.athletics-uk.org/resultsengland/
Video at - vinco.elasticbeanstalk.com/fixtures/12950-england-athletics-senior-aaa-and-uk-cau-inter-counties-championships
Under 13 Inter Counties at Kingston
There were a few TAC athletes in action including Albert Kreuzberg, George Hopkins, Lily Slack and Sophie Slack.
Results are on the Results 2018 page.
Henry Pearce receives his trophy for winning the Marlow Twilight 10k
UK Endurance Conference, Saturday 28th July, at Kingston University
Mark Hookway was one of the three invited speakers at the first ever UK Endurance Conference. Mark spoke about the rise of Tonbridge AC and was accompanied by two other speakers. Richard Partridge, a former international himself and father of current marathon runner Lily Partridge, talked about training for endurance events and cross country. Eamonn Martin, a former winner of the London Marathon, spoke about his views on the decline of elite marathon running in the UK and aspects that could be put in place to resurrect it.
If anyone would like access to the Power Point presentation please let Mark know at markhookway@icloud.com
If anyone would like access to the Power Point presentation please let Mark know at markhookway@icloud.com
Watford Open Meeting and Cheltenham 5000m, Wednesday 25th July
Videos loaded from Watford !
Watford
George Duggan ran a big new pb for 3000m of 8.14.95 and Ryan Driscoll ran 8.18.03 in the Elite mens 3000m invitation race. This turned out to be one of the best 3000m races ever in the UK with eleven Brits running under 8 minutes.
Toby Emm ran 4.16.9 for 1500m, although the official result is awaited.
Results are at - www.watfordathletics.co.uk/Whogm/OpenindexF.htm
Cheltenham
Ben Cole finished 2nd in the 5000m in 15.04.9
George Duggan ran a big new pb for 3000m of 8.14.95 and Ryan Driscoll ran 8.18.03 in the Elite mens 3000m invitation race. This turned out to be one of the best 3000m races ever in the UK with eleven Brits running under 8 minutes.
Toby Emm ran 4.16.9 for 1500m, although the official result is awaited.
Results are at - www.watfordathletics.co.uk/Whogm/OpenindexF.htm
Cheltenham
Ben Cole finished 2nd in the 5000m in 15.04.9
This week's 'Big Hitters' - 17th to 24th July
Here are a few who have set personal bests over the last few days.
800m
Ananjan Ganguli (u15) 2.22.1 (improvement by 5.6s)
1500m
George Hopkins (u13) 4.51.0 (improvement by 4.5s)
Taliyah Dahdi (u15) 6.05.2 (improvement by 3.2s)
800m
Ananjan Ganguli (u15) 2.22.1 (improvement by 5.6s)
1500m
George Hopkins (u13) 4.51.0 (improvement by 4.5s)
Taliyah Dahdi (u15) 6.05.2 (improvement by 3.2s)
Anniversary Games, at the Olympic Stadium, London, Sunday 22nd July
James West ran a superb race at the Anniversary Games to finish 10th of 16 in a world class 1500m field.
James ran a new personal best of 3.36.59, which is not far away from Andy Graffin's club record of 3.35.97.
His time improved his best by 0.9 seconds and ranks him 6th on the UK list for 2018.
It moves James to 38th on the UK all time list and 12th on the UK all time under 23 list.
I thought that it might be worth writing a little bit more about James performance, as I am sure some would be interested.
Its been a few years since another TAC athlete reached this level at 1500 metres.
James is 22 years old and joined Tonbridge, from Medway and Maidstone in March 2012, when he was in the under 17 age group. His pbs for 800/1500/3000 at the time were 2.04/4.14/9.15. He has made steady progress ever since and apart from this 1500m has run 800m in 1.49.03, 3000 in 7.51.23 and 5000 in 13.52.29
His time was the second occasion this year that he had run inside the European Championships qualifying standard, of 3.37.50, although unfortunately the event is so strong in GB that he won’t be selected amongst the three that will go.
James attended Loughborough University for three years and is now currently one year through a two year Track scholarship at the University of Oregon, USA
His 1500m time is now 6th on the UK 2018 rankings and 38th all time (Farah, Cram, Coe and Ovett are the top 4).
He is ranked 12th on the UK all time under 23 list, which is headed by Steve Cram’s 3.33.66. This is a key point, as the comparison of the u23 list to the overall list shows that many of the GB top 1500m of all time progressed into their mid and late 20s. In other words there is every chance of developing further, beyond university, as many are still getting stronger physically. Remaining patient, consistent and hopefully injury free all play a big part.
Without embarrassing James too much I feel there are a few attributes that have helped him to get where he is. He is very focussed on what he is doing week in and week out with training ie he gets on with it, gets it done and rarely ever finds an excuse not to. He has generally (touch wood) had a good mix of training and avoided injuries. Then perhaps one attribute that particularly stands out is his attitude to adversity and set backs. He has had a few, as everyone does in their careers. Back in the Autumn he had some real disasters at cross country but maintained a determination that the training would pay off and he was getting stronger.
Then came the Summer and in the USA College system they have Conference, Regional and then National Championships. James would have been one of the favourites to make the National final but had a disastrous run in the Regional qualifiers and was eliminated very early in the process. Many would have felt sorry for themselves and even called it a day on their season, despite it only being June. He didn’t do this, ran a couple of more solid races in the States and then came home to the UK for the Summer. Again many don’t even try to prolong their season, when USA based, but James has, even running the 3000/800 double at the British League fixture, for Tonbridge, prior to this race at the weekend.
So there are a few lessons from James experience in getting to this stage -
A) You don’t have to be the best in the younger age groups to get to the highest level as a senior, even at under 17.
B) Patience, consistency and a long term view can really help.
C) How you react to adversity is often the biggest factor that divides the top athletes and others.
Hope that this is useful to some.
James ran a new personal best of 3.36.59, which is not far away from Andy Graffin's club record of 3.35.97.
His time improved his best by 0.9 seconds and ranks him 6th on the UK list for 2018.
It moves James to 38th on the UK all time list and 12th on the UK all time under 23 list.
I thought that it might be worth writing a little bit more about James performance, as I am sure some would be interested.
Its been a few years since another TAC athlete reached this level at 1500 metres.
James is 22 years old and joined Tonbridge, from Medway and Maidstone in March 2012, when he was in the under 17 age group. His pbs for 800/1500/3000 at the time were 2.04/4.14/9.15. He has made steady progress ever since and apart from this 1500m has run 800m in 1.49.03, 3000 in 7.51.23 and 5000 in 13.52.29
His time was the second occasion this year that he had run inside the European Championships qualifying standard, of 3.37.50, although unfortunately the event is so strong in GB that he won’t be selected amongst the three that will go.
James attended Loughborough University for three years and is now currently one year through a two year Track scholarship at the University of Oregon, USA
His 1500m time is now 6th on the UK 2018 rankings and 38th all time (Farah, Cram, Coe and Ovett are the top 4).
He is ranked 12th on the UK all time under 23 list, which is headed by Steve Cram’s 3.33.66. This is a key point, as the comparison of the u23 list to the overall list shows that many of the GB top 1500m of all time progressed into their mid and late 20s. In other words there is every chance of developing further, beyond university, as many are still getting stronger physically. Remaining patient, consistent and hopefully injury free all play a big part.
Without embarrassing James too much I feel there are a few attributes that have helped him to get where he is. He is very focussed on what he is doing week in and week out with training ie he gets on with it, gets it done and rarely ever finds an excuse not to. He has generally (touch wood) had a good mix of training and avoided injuries. Then perhaps one attribute that particularly stands out is his attitude to adversity and set backs. He has had a few, as everyone does in their careers. Back in the Autumn he had some real disasters at cross country but maintained a determination that the training would pay off and he was getting stronger.
Then came the Summer and in the USA College system they have Conference, Regional and then National Championships. James would have been one of the favourites to make the National final but had a disastrous run in the Regional qualifiers and was eliminated very early in the process. Many would have felt sorry for themselves and even called it a day on their season, despite it only being June. He didn’t do this, ran a couple of more solid races in the States and then came home to the UK for the Summer. Again many don’t even try to prolong their season, when USA based, but James has, even running the 3000/800 double at the British League fixture, for Tonbridge, prior to this race at the weekend.
So there are a few lessons from James experience in getting to this stage -
A) You don’t have to be the best in the younger age groups to get to the highest level as a senior, even at under 17.
B) Patience, consistency and a long term view can really help.
C) How you react to adversity is often the biggest factor that divides the top athletes and others.
Hope that this is useful to some.
James West - 3.36.59 for 1500m at the Anniversary Games