Category: News

Little Lifts

This week’s event report (based on the 10k) is by, me!

‘It was the inaugural event put on my Little Lifts and it had been two years in the making.  Little Lifts is a charity who are on a mission to provide free, thoughtfully curated Little Lifts gift Boxes to every breast cancer patient in the UK receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment.

To make this event even more impressive, there were actually 3 different distances; 10k, 10mi and 15.5mi.  The downside of this, is that it takes a lot of planning and signage.  More on this later.

The event took place at Barningham Hall in Matlaske.  Barningham Winter Estate is usually off limits to the public so it was by kind permission of the estate and local farm owners that the event could take place.

It was lovely to be back, as my grandparents actually lived in the park, so driving past their old house brought back lots of memories of childhood visits.

Anyway, on to the race.  Once registration was completed it was good to meet up with fellow RntS, some of us (sensible) doing the 10k, others doing the 10mi.  After the pre-race briefing there was a group warm-up to music with a couple of fitness instructors which was entertaining.

All three distances started at the same time, and then branched off in different directions at different points.  We were lucky to have helpful marshals (including Kirsty L and Lucy H from RntS and Phillippa from Holkham parkrun) and signs along the way.  As mentioned previously though, this can lead to issues and it would appear one of the locals wasn’t happy and vandalised some of the signs before the race started.  This meant that some 10 milers went in the wrong directions.  All lessons for next year.

For the 10k it was probably 10% (maybe a little more) road, but the rest was all field edge, farm track or country path.  It certainly was challenging , I think the other club members would agree!

Although a challenge, the scenery was lovely and the support well received (although the last kilometer over a very uneven meadow couldn’t end soon enough).  Each runner receiving a goody bag.

Would I do it again?  During the race, it was a no, but now, probably yes.  It was a lovely location, well organised and for a very worthwhile cause.

A special mention for Rob J who, just as we were discussing his predicted finishing time with Nita, the tannoy anouncer shouted that the first 10 mile runner was about to finish, we turned to look and Rob came hurtling in from another direction behind us to take second place in the 10 mile race.  Luckily we saw him just in time and cheered him home.’

Mark.

‘On Sunday 23rd April,  littlelifts trail runs took place at  Barningham Hall, starting and finishing in the grounds of this beautiful hall. There were options of 10 km, 10 miles and 15.5 miles. All the RNTS that took part over the distances of 10km (Nita, Mark, Vikki and Will) and 10 miles (Anna, Pete and myself) did so well. With Kirsty, Phillipa and Lucy volunteering the club was well represented.

The Weather was great for running and though there were some minor issues with directions, due to someone moving some signs on the cause, fun was had by all and the day was so enjoyable. It was hilly at times, but the views were incredible, running around area’s that are not usually accessible to the public. It was for a great cause, that brings a much needed bit of happiness when people need it the most!!!  the team that run the event were friendly, approachable and very supportive of all the runners today and deserved for the rain to stay away.

I for one will be looking out for it next year as it’s a great event. Plus the food, drink and goody bag were very good 😊’

Rob.

Official Results (10k):
Will – 57:43.6
Nita – 1:04:33.6
Vikki – 1:10:31.2
Mark – 1:10:37.6

Official Results (10mi):
Rob J – 1:22:42.6 – 2nd place
Anna – 1:39:54.3
Pete – 2:01:27.6

Blickling Trust 10
‘The Trust 10 Trail Runs are free 10K runs on National Trust properties. There are 10 Trust 10 sites spread across the UK. The National Trust advertises them as events which are all about enjoying the experience of running at the beautiful places The National Trust look after, whether you’re training for a challenge or looking for a sociable jog in the fresh air. The runs take place on the fourth Sunday of every month. If monitoring your running time is important to you, please remember to bring your own timing device.

As it was a Club Championship event I headed over to Blickling on April 23^rd.

The weather forecast for Sunday was high chance of rain in the morning so to my surprise it was dry when I set off for the 50-minute drive to Blickling and stayed dry until I was back home. It was very busy when I arrived and there were lots of casual walkers generally on the estate. They either have lots of National Trust members in that area or the public were prepared to pay the £5 parking fee to go onto the estate.

The start was tucked away at the entrance to the estate grounds, a simple tick in and tick out system (no names) to account for the runners going out and correct number coming back. The course is two laps of rolling countryside and woods, one small 3K and the larger 7K loop on the outside perimeter on the estate. Surface was mainly crushed sand dirt/chippings with a small section across a field adjacent to the lake. The bluebells were in full flower and created a wave of blue through the woods. I counted around 30 runners at the start which quickly split into two groups – very quick group and a slow running group. I was running on my own in the middle.

I have run the Park Run at Clumber Park seven times however I never went to their Trust 10 event I am more a road runner than trail runner. However, the Blickling Trust 10 would be a nice training run with fellow club members.’

Malcolm.

Kinder Downfall 2023

‘This is a Category BM race. The route does traverse high mountain terrain and weather conditions at this time of year may be bad. Weather is often unpredictable. Runners must have experience of this type of event. The route is mainly unmarked. Navigational skills are required, especially in mist, and prior knowledge an advantage (it’s all open to recceing in advance). The kit list is mandatory and if you don’t have the correct kit (including map and compass) please don’t try to take part’

https://www.t42.org.uk/hayfield/

‘Myself and Richard Monksmith entered this, again a late entry from me as it’s difficult to plan stuff around family activities.

I’ve ‘ran’ up and on Kinder plateau a few times so know what’s involved.  I’ve never managed to do this race, always missing it for some negligent reason.  Very basically, you start in Hayfield, up Snake Path then Williams Clough up Kinder Scout, along the plateau past Kinder Downfall and back to Hayfield.  10 miles with 600m of elevation.

The start was a bit chaotic as we started in Hayfield centre which is a village in the Peak District and it struggled with 300 runners along with a load of Kinder Swimmers who were trying to do the equivalent of Kinder Trespass from 91 years ago.

We headed up Snake Path which is wide but elbows were jostling for space.  I kept my ground and took it steady.  It levelled off and then headed down towards Kinder Reservoir and I tagged onto a runner on the lovely single track.  I could just about see the lead runners ahead and commented how they can be so far ahead already as we were moving at a fair pace.

Ascending Kinder was via William Clough which is a technical single track up the stream.  I tried to pace myself here as I’m not a strong climber, walking up the steep technical sections and running where I could.

Soon enough we got to the top of Kinder and then it’s about 5k along the plateau before we start descending.  It’s deceptively trickly to try and run along here and can be frustrating.  The optimum path isn’t always obvious and there are lot of boulders and obstacles to slow you down.

I got to CP2 and started descending the single track stone slabs which my Inov-8 trail Talons hated, it was pretty sketchy but then I made it to some stoney technical stuff where they were much happier.

Soon the final CP3 arrived and I headed down and was racing a MTBer who helped drag me along.  Through some fields where I managed to claim a couple of scalps who I felt were just out for a jog then I hit the final road section where unfortunately I lost a place.

I finished 50^th out of 313 in 1:25:48.  Looking at previous times I was hoping for sub 1:30 so I’m pleased with how I got on.

This is one of the classic races which attracts a strong field.  For £9, I love these races 😊’

Llangollen Fell Race 2023

‘Llangollen Fell race is a 17 mile fell and trail race that takes in around 3000ft of elevation, Taking in the beautiful views across Trevor Rocks, Eglwyseg Mountain, Rhuabon Mountain and then towards Cyrn Y Brain & Watkins Tower. Then down the Offas Dyke and along the beautiful Worlds End Trail back towards the finish..’

https://llangollenfellrace.co.uk/

‘Myself, Richard Monksmith and some other Spartans entered this race.  I entered it last minute as I wasn’t too bothered about doing it again and just happened to have a free Sunday so needed something to fill it up.

This time I was in the 09:00 (faster wave) rather than the 08:30 wave like last year.  Having done this race previously I knew the route, where to push and where to recover.

The race announcer did the briefing and we were off and about 400m later we hit the first climb up a steep but short road section.  I chose to walk it, even though we’d only done 400m and others chose to try and run it.  I didn’t see any point in trying to run it as I wouldn’t have been much faster than walking yet still had 17 miles to go so would save myself.

As soon as we got to the top of the road I started running and must have passed 15 people easily.  I then carried on running upto the open fells where a latched onto a small group.  As it’s a bit chaotic at the start it’s difficult to tell what position I was.

We then carried on the undulating open moors to a road crossing and then on a boggy moor section upto CP1 being half way.  There is a lovely downhill section here where you run down a stream and then onto some slabs to CP2 to head home.

I’d been on my own for a couple of miles now as the field had thinned out however I’d passed a lot of the 08:30 runners which was a good boost.  Another lad caught me as we hit the road section to head back on the last 5 mile down Offa’s Dyke.

As we hit Offa’s Dyke there is a small technical section where I passed him.  I continued to hurtle as fast as I could down Offa’s Dyke which is a narrow bit of single track cut into the mountainside.  It’s such good fun and makes the race worth it.

I managed to prevail over the lad who was chasing me and finish 5^th in 2:19:56 taking 5 minutes off last year’s effort.’

Alex M.

Boston Half Marathon

‘Very warm day so pleased of the 8:30am early start. Flat course in remote Lincolnshire countryside with very little crowd support.
Pete did the full marathon.’

Hayley

Official Result:
2:09:32

Newport Marathon

‘It all started with Kerrie buying me a Newport Marathon place for Christmas. I grew up near Newport so was looking forward to running this event.

We travelled to Wales on Saturday, a good journey and the sun was shining as we crossed the Severn Bridge.

An early start on Sunday morning to eat porridge and bananas before catching the bus to the start of the race. The weather was overcast and the atmosphere at the start was amazing and the pre-race excitement kicked in.

I got into my pen and said goodbye to Kerrie, Olivia, Ronnie & Denise. Whilst warming up I bumped into an old school friend, chatting to him eased the nerves and we started the race together.

It was a lovely course, although remote and quiet in places. The support along parts of the route was brilliant – cheering, clapping and bands playing all spurred me on. I knew Kerrie and family would be around mile 22 (as it was a tricky course to get around without a car), at this point I was getting tired and cramp was starting to kick in. But the crowd cheers kept me going.

My pace dropped as I struggled through the last 5 miles with cramping legs.  I crossed the bridge back over the River Usk after seeing my Sister and 1 mile to go. Finally, I could see the finish arch and pushed on through to the end.

A big relief to finish and so pleased with a pb official time of 03:22:04.

Thank you to everyone for your kind comments and support before and after the race.’

David C

Official Result:
3:22:04

Thanks to Liam for this week’s big run report:

On a warm and sunny Easter Sunday, Runners-next-the-Sea had a great turnout of 16 runners on the start line for the popular annual Active Fakenham 5km race.

The course was five laps of Fakenham Town Centre with closed roads for the running race and the later bike races.  A tricky course with runners starting near the cinema, turning right to benefit from the downhill of Bridge Street then sweeping around Oliver Way before negotiating the long drag up Whitehorse, which runners feel gets longer and steep each of the five laps.  At the tops of the hill runners had a brief respite as they turned right onto the cobbles of Norwich Street followed by runners weaving through town centre thronged with supporters cheering on their runners.

The first runners back for the Wells and Fakenham based club were Ant Cude in just over 19 minutes which was his best time this year, so a promising summer ahead.  Kyle Hasting (19.39) and Liam Dawson (20.15) followed him in for the club’s top three male runners.

First female was Tara Betts on 21.30 followed by Michelle Finnegan (29.35) and Vanessa Green (34.44) to make up the top three female runners.

These times were all the more impressive as most of the club had been in the town since early morning helping to set up the course.  The club was also delighted to have once again been asked to provide all the course marshals for the race.  Paul Woodhouse, who had organised the marshals said, ‘this is is a great local race which we are keen to support each year to showcase our sport and our club.  It was great to see so many runners come to Fakenham especially with the feedback on how friendly and supportive the marshals were’.

The full list of finishers for Runners-next-the-Sea were:

22 – Anthony Cude – 19:09.4
26 –  Kyle Hastings – 19:32.6
32 – Liam Dawson – 20:15.0
41 – Andrew Sutton – 21:16.9
42 – Tara Betts – 21:30.8
47 – Stuart Gollands – 22:08.9
48 – Darren Smith – 22:11.3
60 – Paul Woodhouse – 23:25.6
78 – William Ayley-Dodd – 24:31.1
90 – Roland Bewick – 26:03.3
98 – Chris Lubbock – 27:16.3
117 – Michelle Finnegan – 29:25.7 – PB
136 – Vanessa Green – 34:44.3
140 – Gillian Bewick – 37:54.0
144 – Laura Shaw – 38:38.6
145 – Jennifer Simmons-Brack – 40:07.2

There were 148 finishers.

And a slightly shorter report from Vanessa:

‘The bump was kicking away. It says what the heck was going on like being on a bouncy castle in here xx’

An amazing turn-out of 46 runners for the first 2 mile handicap of the year.  Benchmarks set!

As Kevin always says, Run For Cake (at least, I think it’s that!)

Name	Run1 030423
Ant	00:12:08
David C	00:12:23
Kyle	00:12:40
Liam	00:12:41
David R	00:13:02
Kevin H	00:13:17
Cam	00:13:26
Shane	00:13:35
Jimmy	00:13:39
Lorraine	00:14:01
Alice	00:14:10
Ana	00:14:29
Steve	00:14:39
Paul	00:14:43
Bob H	00:14:47
Paula	00:15:03
Rob J	00:15:12
Michael	00:15:30
Malcolm	00:15:42
Will	00:15:49
Andrew T	00:15:50
Andy	00:16:01
Gemma	00:16:15
Rachel	00:16:33
Bob	00:16:59
Jade	00:17:01
Laura	00:17:18
Nur	00:17:30
Nita	00:17:49
Chris L	00:18:10
Pete	00:18:12
Sophie	00:18:35
Marie P	00:18:53
Jenny	00:19:11
Mark	00:19:15
Kerrie	00:19:17
Angie	00:20:40
Lesley	00:20:46
Deb	00:20:47
Lynne	00:21:06
Lavona	00:21:29
Francesca	00:21:47
Chloe	00:22:20
Claudia	00:22:55
Jenn	00:26:14
Grainne	00:26:44

Today, I learnt what an Acronym was!  With a title of today’s events full of them, here are some reports kindly sent in by our runners (many of whom got PBs today or completed their first Half Marathon or Marathon):

London Landmarks Half Marathon:
The landmarks half saw us arrive in the busy capital on a dry but fresh April morning.

It was quite organised as we left our belongings on a big red bus to be reunited at the finish line and took our place in the pens.

At the start of the race they announced that at last count before the start the entrants had raised a combined £8.5 million for charity which is amazing. The run was split into 8 waves and saw runners in both club and charity tops, I spotted a Yarmouth top and Wymondham so a few of us left the County for the event.

The run itself weaved through the city with signs to look out for the landmarks, we ran past St Paul’s, The Shard, The London Eye, The Guildhall and The Royal Courts of Justice which had the gold statue of justice on the top. There was various entertainment on route from bands, to DJs and choirs and the whole route was well supported with yells, cheers and chants which were especially loud from the charity stations. We ran through the city which despite being sold as flat had a few ‘mounds of opportunity’ and then in the latter part of the run we ran through ‘ a rave tunnel’ which had dodgy lighting and equally dodgy tunes before the sun finally made an appearance for the last stretch.

The run ended down embankment where Kerrie appeared to get us through the last bit…I was definitely lagging by now so it was fab to see a friendly face and she had strategically planner her support spot. We then went over Westminster Bridge before taking a U-turn to admire Big Ben which I’m reliably informed is the only landmark Kyle saw as he sped through the course. We then had the suffragists mark the last 400m to the finish, this part was absolutely buzzing and really helped me dig deep for the final few metres. Finally we were over the line and the Chelsea pensioners were in their fine dress to present the medals. Overall it was a very well supported half through the capital with tonnes of good spirit and entertainment and raising plenty of pennies for some fab causes. Anyone after an atmosphere should get entered for next year. 😊’

Sarah-Jane

‘Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin.

Race Day – London Landmarks Half Marathon.

For the love of Mum and Mo

After a porridge and toast breakfast Leanne Kershaw, Nicola Kershaw and I took a 15 minute walk from our hotel to the bag drop village where thousands of athletes and their families were gathered. I felt a long way out of my comfort zone. 13.1 miles out of my comfort zone to be precise.

As we approached the iconic red double decker London buses, which were being used as homes for our bags for the day, I reminded myself to take in the atmosphere. Looking around at the other people wearing race numbers I could see people of all ages, shapes and sizes represented. I rubbed the little running shoe good luck charm on my and told myself, ‘I am a runner and today these are my fellow runners.’

With less than an hour to go until our official start time I ate a banana for some extra energy. Judging by the overflowing wheelie bins so did every one of the other 16,000 runners. As 10.51am approached we were funnelled through barriers with all the other ‘athletes’ in Wave 8. The Royal Wave. When Sweet Caroline boomed out through the loud speakers and everyone joined in with, ‘So Good, So Good, So Good,’ the camaraderie was palpable. Moments later we were shuffling forward, and the start line loomed into view. There was no way out now, literally.

As I ran under the start arch with Leanne and Nicola either side of me I felt a wave of apprehension. I was not at all sure I was ready to run a half marathon. Then, as we crossed the start line and started our watches we heard our names being announced over the tannoy. This was just the boost we needed. Grinning from ear to ear we were off. The first 5 minutes passed in a flash. The onlooking crowds waved and cheered. Strangers shouted our names in encouragement. The weather was a little overcast and therefore perfect for running.

We checked our watches and together we resisted the temptation to go off too quickly. Just after mile 1 we spotted familiar faces. Angie Barker, Shirley Browell and Teresa Abel were waving, shouting and rattling on the sidelines and this gave us a first turbo boost of energy. As the 2nd big yellow Mile Marker came into view I tried to feel encouraged but all I could think was, ‘we haven’t even done a park run yet.’ Reading my thoughts, Leanne said, ‘Watch your pace, I know you will be wanting to get to the end but try to take it all in and enjoy the day.’ I took my head band off and put it onto my wrist, covering my watch. I took Leanne’s advice on board and stopped looking at the distance completed every few minutes.

At mile 5 I felt as if we had met our first target. Our pace was steady and we were all still feeling comfortable. The support was phenomenal. The backdrop of London Landmarks gave the route a feeling of grandeur.

I lost count of the number of bands, choirs and musicians dotted along the route. As we passed the steel drums we all adjusted our pace to run in time with their rhythm and it felt amazing. The young lad singing The Proclaimer’s 500 miles at around mile 10 on the NSPCC cheer station made our day.

At mile 8 I finally allowed myself to think that a half marathon might be doable. At about the same time I felt what could be the beginnings of a blister on my right big toe. The last thing I wanted was to stop apply a plaster. Thankfully, it wasn’t painful and so I didn’t mention it to the girls.

Miles 9 and 10 were ok although our pace dropped off a little. By now we had seen our various teams of supporters at least 4 or 5 times each. They had spread themselves out along the routes in such a way that one group or another seemed to pop up every 10 minutes. This was brilliant and we found ourselves running a little quicker for a minute or two every time we saw them but it did mean that we didn’t dare stop for a walk break.

As we passed mile 11 we were well into new distance territory and we could feel it. We agreed to walk at water station to that we could pick up a cup and drink properly. Our legs and heads were feeling weary and we finally allowed ourselves a five minute walk break. With Mile 12 in sight more music blared from huge speakers. This time it was ‘The Final Countdown.’ It was just was we needed to hear. Running again we sang along knowing we were less than 15 minutes from crossing the finish line. (PLEASE NOTE – two years ago when I rocked up to Couch to 5k I could not run for 2 continuous minutes).

With all the crowds and cheer stations suddenly shouting, ‘You are nearly there,’ we had a quick chat about our finish line pose. We turned the corner and the big yellow 13 told us we had just 0.1 of a mile to go. We had got this! I thought of Mum and Mo and hoped that we had done them justice. My thoughts then turned to other loved ones we had said farewell to in the last 12 months and I remembered that it was a privilege to be able to run today.

Finally, after 3 hours of running we held hands. As the tannoy announcer once again said our names we raised our arms in the air and we were over the line. Strangers congratulated us, gave us our medals and handed us each a goodie bag. My legs were heavy but my heart was full. I would forever be able to say, ‘I once ran a half marathon.’

When I look at video clips of myself running I am momentarily embarrassed. It is more of a flat footed shuffle. There is nothing athletic about my gait at all. But, whatever it is, I did it for 3 hours today and for that I feel proud.

Thank you to my friends and family for always believing I could do this.

Thank you to Leanne Kershaw and Nicola Kershaw for doing this with me.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the £1700 raised for @Alzheimer’sResearchUK

Thank you to anyone who has ran with me since my first ever c25k session almost 2 years ago. Extra special thanks to White Christine, Angie Barker and Gill who kept me going week after week.  Thank you to the Thursday Jog n Jabber group for showing me that running can be fun.

And, thank you to the Runners-next-the-Sea. This is all down to you.’

Sarah

Official Results:
Kyle – 1:29:07
Sarah-Jane – 1:47:39
Lucy Mc – 1:57:26
Marie P – 2:09:52
Anna – 2:12:50
Denise – 2:50:37
Sarah – 3:03:36

Rutland Spring Half Marathon :

‘I entered this race both to discover what  Rutland Water and the peninsula looked like and also to aim for a run at effort pace continuously throughout a half marathon distance. I’m happy to have take part in the event. The race was very well-organised, with three water stations, excellent marking and lovely support from all the marshals.

The course is mostly tarmac some of which is by the main road but there are a lot of wooded trails which I actually preferred. It is quite undulating but nothing of the kind that would make it a difficult race. Some of the trails were a little muddy but again this was not a major problem.

The view around the peninsula is beautiful. I wanted to take photos while running but thought better of it as it would have definitely affected my running.

I’m very pleased with my result but, more importantly, pleased that I shared the happiness of my friend who was running her first ever half marathon. We ran together and seeing her achieve her pursuit was a great feeling.’

Nur

Official time:
2:16:25

Brighton Marathon

‘After a few hiccups with communication and a new company taking over organising the Brighton marathon, the day finally came!

Weather was overcast and chilly while waiting to be called and go into our starting corrals but once out on the course, the clouds lifted and the sun came out. It was beautiful but made for a tough run once it got to midday.

Amazing support from the crowds and volunteers made the amended route a lot better this year and knowing most of the course from the previous year I knew mostly what to expect which helped my mental mind over matter thinking. ‘

Kirsty

‘The day started very chilly with the promise of sunshine. It did indeed warm up and at times it was quite windy. Brighton was my first marathon and the nerves at the start really got to me, the task ahead seemed huge and impossible. I stuck with the 4:45 pacer for the first 6k enjoying his music and chatter, helping me forget my nerves. The route is a mixture of city streets and the seafront. The first half has some very lengthy and steep hills but with beautiful views of the seafront. I finished the first half comfortably and ran back towards the city full of confidence due the flatter second half. All was good until mile 21, the heat of the day and the energy needed for those hills left me fatigued and nauseous, I hit a huge wall.

21 miles was the peak of my training runs so self doubt crept in now and I really didn’t know if or how I could do 5 more miles. I actually don’t know how I did get to the finish, there was a lot of crying and the urge to stop was huge. I crossed the line in 4:47, thrilled to be under 5 hours and overjoyed it was over.

I loved my first marathon experience and I’m glad I chose Brighton, it’s a challenging route but the crowd make it one great big street party. It was the atmosphere and the crowds that kept me going when I was struggling. I can proudly say I have run a marathon but more importantly I raised £700 for the charity Beat. I think I’ll hang up my marathon trainers there! Box well and truly ticked.’

Official Results:
Hayley – 4:47:13
Kirsty – 5:06:17

Thank you to Malcolm for sending his report and time through:

This was my first race, apart from parkpuns, since November 2022. This race is organized by Thorney Running Club and the race is in memory of the founder and former chairman Keith Hall. The pre-race information stated that parking was extremely tight, you could be excused for thinking that the parking was the local duck pond, the March rainfall had almost filled the trailer park they were using as the official car park. The weather forecast was for rain most of the day however the rain had stopped by the time we arrived at Thorney. A good thing as the race HQ and race start and finish was 10-minute walk away at Bedford Hall which is a historic building dating back to 1848. It was saved and restored as a community resource in 1981 with the main building opened as a centre for community use. An impressive building https://www.bedfordhall.co.uk/about/

Picked up my number and did some pre-run stretches. The route was very simple – an out and back course starting on Station Road, outside Bedford Hall, head into Thorney turn left onto Wisbech Road turn right onto Old Knarr Fed Drove turn round and head back to finish in grounds of Bedford Hall. A flat course on fully closed roads with a strong wind blowing across the open Cambridgeshire Fens. A well organised run with plenty of marshals and support, water station at the half way point medals to all finishers.

Chip time 50:42; Placed 128 overall from 228 finishers; 4^th male 70+ from age group of 8 finishers.

Malcolm Senior

Official Result:
50:42

A great turnout by the club today at the Spring Blickling Half Marathon.  Today’s report is written by Michelle (thank you Michelle 👍)

‘I arrived at Blickling half nice and early but you could already tell it was going to be a lovely day for a run, coolish and dry, perfect.

There was a good turnout of RntS all grouped together at the start excited for the off and we managed to get a photo with the house in the background, taken by Andy Payne who came to support.

We started pretty much on time and made our way down the road and out into the woods.

Blickling half is a beautiful run, a two lap course through beautiful countryside and woods with a few ups and downs and the odd puddle to dodge, there was even a bit of mud in some places.  It’s such a beautiful course you almost forget how painful those final few miles are.

We had great support from all the marshal’s out on the course and from Andy taking photos and Mark and Vikki strategically positioned at the bottom of some downhill sections where we saw them three times.  Massive thanks to the supporters, it was very much appreciated.

All in all it was a very enjoyable race with a pretty medal at the end and a choice of banana, muffin or iced ring donut for refueling, I had the donut 🙂’

Michelle

Official Results:
Jimmy – 01:27:21.5 – 1st in class
Kyle –  01:30:10.4
Kevin – 01:36:43.3
Lorraine – 01:39:39.3
Shane – 01:40:57.3
Bob H – 01:52:53.3 – 2nd in class
Gemma -01:55:07.8
Lucy Mc – 02:04:47.3
Laura -02:09:40.5
Kerrie – 02:16:12.2
Marie – 02:19:35.2
Michelle – 02:22:44.2

Hundred Hills 50k

‘On Saturday 18th March I took on the Hundred Hills 50km race organised by Centurion Running. The event was held on the beautiful Chiltern countryside through stunning trails, some of which go through incredibly beautiful ancient woodland. 300+ runners started and finished at the 850-year-old Stonor Park, with the park also acting as the third checkpoint at halfway point. Having run on there Chilterns before I knew I was in for a treat.

As a back-of-the-pack ultra runner, who has to be very careful about meeting all the cutoffs in time, I planned very carefully to meet all the 6 cutoffs of this race. Prior to the race, I studied the elevation profile and with reasonable familiarity of the area, too, knew there were going to be some very long and steep technical climbs as well as very long and steep technical descents. I would capitalise on running the downhill sections as fast as possible to make up for any time lost having to hike steep inclines. This plan did not work as well as I’d anticipated as the trails were very muddy making it difficult for me to run freely on the descents. I found myself having to exert extra effort not to slip and slide despite the good grip on my shoes. I even did some tree hugging on some descents to gain momentum! I had only 10 mins to spare before the first checkpoint would close and knew that this was not a good position to be in. I had to do a lot of self-talk to do better so as to arrive well in advance of the other cps. This worked 🙂 I arrived at cp2 in good shape but I’d got quite wet from the rain which had started soon after I’d packed away my waterproof jacket in my running vest early on in the race.  So at cp2 I decided to change into dry clothes and wear my waterproof jacket back again so I’d carry on running in comfort. It was definitely the right decision. I found checkpoints 3 and 4 cutoff times very easy to meet but had only 10 mins to spare when I’d got to cp5 so decided not to stop at all but to make my way on the final stretch. I did have a down point I think during the cp4 and cp5 stretch when I started to doubt myself as an ultra runner. Luckily this doubt didn’t linger on. I had to stop twice to tend to a painful cramp in my lower hamstrings which came on suddenly on the steep descents.  I know I’d have lost some time in both cases but had to sort it out before I could carry on running.

I’m trying to recall how many puddles I had to go through (certainly in the second half of the race). There were many. My feet would get very wet but I did not experience discomfort in my feet at all. I put it down to the right choice I’d made wearing my Drymax socks, my go-to when running on wet terrain.

I was very happy with my hydration and nutrition throughout the race. The checkpoints were very well-stocked with great choices and I went for my all time favourites: blocks of cheese, cheese sandwich, grapes, banana, satsumas and crisps along with Tailwind as my electrolyte which is provided at all checkpoints.

A final look at my Garmin indicated that I had 812 metres to the finish. Only 812m! I was going to make the final cutoff, too. There was a lot of cheering as I approached the finish line in Stonor Park.  Crewing during the race is not allowed but I knew that Tim was following me digitally and was with me in spirit while I was out on the course. And of course there he was waiting for me at the finish line. I got quite emotional as I approached the finish and broke into hysterical crying as I crossed the line.

It was a “balancing act” on an elevation profile of over 1300 m (4400 ft) and certainly a  great workout for the whole body, and mind and soul 😉 Would I do it again? Yes. Definitely. ‘

Nur

Official Result:
08:43:33

Well done to Paul who started his 7 miles a day for 7 days challenge in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association (https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-woodhouse11)

‘An early start was made to head the 70 miles to Stamford.

Following an email from the organisers we opted to park at one of the towns free car parks, this opposed to queuing to enter the grounds and park on the soggy grass.

What a good choice this was as we walked the 1/2 mile into the grounds passing a lengthy queue.

Once in the ground it was only a short distance to the start with ample facilities.

The numbers had been posted with clear instructions to enter the well marked pens for starting waves.

Once the run started it was a short distance through one of the estate gates turning right and heading down hill into Stamford. After crossing the river there was a u turn back across it before turning left along its side.

We then turned right and headed back into the estate grounds passing the 1 mile marker on an incline.

Following the route down to and around the side of the house we left the estate again around 2 miles.

This then continued along a quiet country road with testing hills between 2.5 to 4 miles.

Once tackling these we turned right along another small country road. This appeared to be dead straight and you could see the runners ahead of you for the best part of the next mile.A very testing section as we were faced with a brisk head wind.

At the 5 mile marker we turned back into the estate, continuing for about a mile on fairly flat terrain.

At around 6 miles we were presented with a long steep descent, which was not before time.

As the terrain levelled again crossing the Lion bridge (over the lake) we finished with a short run towards the front of the house.’

Paul

Official Result:
57:13

Cambridge Half Marathon

A chilly day in Cambridge for the HM runners who were all superb and managed a few PBs too!

When asked for comment by the Roving RntS Reporters, they replied:

‘Ouch’ – Shirley
‘It was cold’ – Jenny’s feet
‘I normally do not enjoy large events like this one, but it was so well organised that I would like to enter again. The atmosphere was superb, we had a good team of runners and supporters, which made the experience more enjoyable. I was hoping for a PB and worked hard for it weeks before running it. It seemed like one of my toughest races due to being ultra cold for me. However, I have gained this experience and will be better prepared the next time. I have already learnt so much since joining the RntS and they are responsible for me being able to sustain faster pace over long distances such as this.’ – Ana

Official Results:
David C – 1:23:48 – PB
Ana – 1:40:51 – PB
Rob – 1:43:14
Paula – 1:48:11
Bob L – 1:55:52 – PB
Hayley – 2:03:19 – PB
Michelle – 2:21:07
Nita – 2:22:36
Shirley – 2:30:23 – PB
David S – 2:36:42
Angie – 2:55:24 – PB

Mike Groves 10k
It’s always windy at RAF Coltishall!

Official Results:
Will – 00:53:21.9
Marie – 01:00:07.9

Hunny Bell XC
Wow!  What a difference a day makes!  If today’s weather had been the same as yesterday’s at parkrun, things could have been an awful lot worse!  As it was, the weather at the Hunny Bell XC, held on the Stody Estate at Hunworth was lovely.  In fact, I even took my hat off (the forceast ‘Feels like’ or 2 deg C was a little way out).

Once again, it was the newer (longer) route which was introduced last year (about 1km longer than 2020) which gave us the joyful march up into the woods twice!  And anyone who has done it would be pleased to know the field edge section, where you can see the runners a good km ahead and above you, is still there!

Support from the NNBR was once again, very well received and there were lots of mentions that the must be ‘nobody in Wells today’ and there would be ‘plenty of parking spaces in Wells’ due to the fantastic turn-out by the club.

The club tent (Gazebo) got another outing and served as a great meeting point.

Well done everyone.  It’s one of those events you always say ‘never again’ and then sign up as soon as you can for next year! – Mark

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A team of over 30 runners from Runners-next-the-Sea took on the undulating Hunnybell 5mile Cross Country event, held at Stody Estate on Sunday. A beautiful, yet challenging course over hilly fields and through woodland  pay dividend to the runners as they came home with an array of successful results.  RntS would like to thank the organisers for such a great event, with wonderful marshals and volunteers who give up their time to make these events happen. The club had 5 finishers in the top 20, including first lady overall, Cat Foley-Wray.  First male home for the club was Kyle Hastings in 8^th place in a time of 35.47. Kyle has made a huge amount of progress since joining the club less than a year ago and is a great asset to the strong mens team. Ant Cude was 10^th in 36.30, followed by Liam Dawson, 14^th in 37.07 and Shane Hunt, 19^th in 39.09.

RNTS had 3 ladies in the top 6, a fantastic achievement. Cat Foley Wray was 1^st lady overall, coming home in 17^th place in a time of 38.08. Recently returning to running after a foot operation in January, this sets her up nicely as she continues to improve her fitness in preparation for the Inter Counties Cross Country Championships on 11^th March where she will be representing Norfolk.  Lorraine Hunt was 2^nd lady home for the club (39.50), finishing, 4^th lady and 24^th overall.  Kirsty Daniels was 3rd lady home for the club, her first cross country race in a number of years, achieving 6^th lady and 42^nd overall. RNTS pride themselves of the breadth of runners they have and their inclusivity, along with the many members who come to spectate and offer their support, creating a great team spirit for all. – Cat FW

Official Results:
Kyle – 00:35:47.6
Ant – 00:36:30.6 – 2nd in category
Liam – 00:37:07.8 – 2nd in category
Cat FW -00:38:08.8 – First female finisher
Shane – 00:39:09.6 – 3rd in category
Lorraine – 00:39:50.8 – 2nd in category
Cam – 00:41:40.4
Kirsty – 00:42:07.9
Stuart – 00:42:33.1
Kevin – 00:42:49.9 – 3rd in category
Bob H – 00:43:59.9 – 2nd in category
Sean – 00:44:35.1
Rob – 00:45:11.3
Paul – 00:47:17.6
Luke – 00:47:34.0
Roland – 00:48:08.0
Will – 00:48:37.0
Michael – 00:50:06.6
Ana – 00:50:11.6
Evette – 00:50:13.3 – 2nd in category
Lucy – 00:50:44.9
Laura – 00:50:53.6
Pete -00:51:04.3
Nita – 00:52:50.6
Susannah – 00:54:06.6
Marie – 00:56:11.0
Michelle – 01:00:21.0
Mark – 01:04:28.8
Vikki – 01:04:28.8
Denise – 01:10:18.5 – 3rd in category
Kerrie – 01:10:19.1

National Champtionships
4 races in a day, running for Eastern Masters in the National Championships at Lee Valley today. 4th in the V70 400m, 3rd in both the 60m and 200m and then dropping down a decade to run the V60 200m relay, finishing 5th. The Eastern Masters men’s team won the competition and the combined team was overall winners. – Chris

Brighton HM
The weather conditions were perfect for the Brighton 1/2 this morning but unfortunately my sister has been out of action with a nasty chest infection so I had to run it on my own. I got into my pen nice and early and found the 2 hour pacer and decided to stick as close to him as I could for as long as I could. I had no time in mind, just to cross the line. I hadn’t done my long training runs due to a pulled hamstring but had kept up my fitness by swimming. I fell into a good rhythm and had the pacer just in front of me for most of the race until the road widened and we were in line. I overtook him with 5k to go and went for it! At mile 11, I could really feel the lack of long distance running training but was so close to the end so dug deep! I had my Beyoncé moment as I crossed the line in 1:59:24 and collected my medal! – Cat

Official Result:
1:59:24