Coniston 14+ actual distance 16.9 and if a certain lady (diane) had been with us it would have been rounded up to 20! and let me tell you with the intensity of the run she would not have been far out, but what a fantastic event the scenery was breathtaking...or was it just the hills taking my breath! When you tell people you are running round coniston lake they usualy say bet thats nice and flat but in reality i dont know of a run with such challenging hills (apart from fell running) With this in mind i would just like to say how proud i am of everyones exeptionaly good times. Once again we had a good suport team...Hedley who cycled round on my bike with drinks and goodies and on the last hard climb of the day Sue and hubby gave us a well earnt cheer, i know Sue would much rather have ran but i feel she made the right desision although there is no doubt in my mind that she would have made the finish line. Once again some fantastic running from the girls myself included even though i was only 11th in my category and a finish time of 2.41.01 but to put it into prospective i am 57 years of age and ran most of the way with a lady who was 70+ and i only broke away from her at mile 15/16 good job i had told all of how good some of the veteran runners were up there, i just hope i am still running at her age. So the 2010 run had been and gone and we had our slate coaster to show for doing it. So it was off for a slap up meal then back to our extremely nice caravan on the side of the lake for celebratory driks!!! Day 2 Vanessa Catherine Hedley did a 6 mile walk from Hawkshead whilst Karen Paula and myself did a cycle ride to make the most of the weather, we all finished at the local cafe for a late lunch. Day 3 was just Paula and i and seeing as the weather had changed we did what us girls do best shop and eat cake! So if you are inspired by any part of this report get your entry in early as we all plan to go back next year as in my eyes coniston is one of if not the best road race in the country. Cx

How nice it was to do a 1/2m close to home and what a good turn out it was from T.R.A.C. The start of this friendly well organised 1/2 was from the Rugby Club in Ordsal where we found plenty of parking and the smell of bacon butties Mmmm cuming from the club house were very tempting but....being finely tuned athletes! we resisted the temptation and set off on our way toward Retford from there we made our way along the Great North Road to Torworth where we were greeted with a BIG cheer from Dickie our number 1 suporter of the day (Karen's hubby) From Torworth it was a loop back to Barnby Moor then onto the long rolling road of Green Mile (why they call it that beats me as it's apx 3 mile long) Then it's uphill to the finish and time to relax and cheer friends in and they were very close on my heels and a few P.B times were recorded one of those were Karen who took a huge chunk of 22min off her last 1/2m time. As for me not a P.B but i ran a good enough time to get me a notts county champ medal and what must have been the loudest cheer from all at T.R.A.C. So after the presentation it was back to my Limo...well Karen and Dickie's Skoda actualy and very nice it was to as it felt like a Limo compered to my little Punto. Cx

An early start for Becky and i this morning as we set off on our way to the home of the British Grand Prix for an unusual race as we would be going round on 2 feet not the usual form of transport you would expect to see there, mind you it would have been nice to have gone round in a Ferrari....but we will stick to running shoes as they are not quiet so expensive!! We took our place along with apx 10,000 runners on the F1 circuit and were soon under starters orders with the sound of the Grand Prix intro music playing much to the delight of racing car mad Becky. I must say though the race itself didnt realy do much else for us as it's very open and was very windy and apart from the start and finish area not much spectator support. We chose to run for RNIB but many charity's were being suported again though we were led to belive there were a charity village well we must have blinked and missed it, also as usual at big events food were so expensive £6 for a small burger glad i dont eat them. We did have a good and enjoyable day but dont thing we will be going back again next year.

Social Event

- christine, 2010-03-07

Thanks to all who came along to rother valley on sunday it was nice to see so many there...when i eventual got there that is!! I did at one time ask myself why did i call at Tickhill when Becs and i could have just gone directly there, but if we had it wouldnt have been so much fun as it was like a comedy sketch what with all the stop and starts then there was the road closed and so on and so on. If you enjoyed it or ran further than you have ever ran before met new friends or ate to much cake afterward then why not put your report in to we love to see how everyone is getting on. It was nice to see the young lads on bikes who were going round aparantly they were raising funds to go to South Africa...luck them. Cx- , 2010-03-03

4 Events

Clowne xc series this year only 3 events took place due to a fall of snow for the final run at Retford.I think it was a record attendance this year especialy from us 2nd claim TRACsters. Well done to you all i only did 2 this year so i missed the Clowne event due to being ill or was i just being a lazy so-so i was well impressed at you all doing Clowne as i know what your navigation skill are like(not the run that was the EASY bit)getting there was the hard bit! ops bet i get an ear bashing for that. I can see it has made you all stronger runners but i think that may be down to all the lovely food they put on for us rather than the run!!! Cx- christine, 2010-03-03

2009 Road Race Marathon and Half Marathon

Norton9 Sunday 7th Mar 2010 what a lovely spring day blue sky, sunshine and a BIG turn out from TRAC and how well did they all run quiet a few P.Bs and not an easy race as some good hills to contend with along the way. This did not stop everyone suporting a very big smile as they crossed the finish line. Well done to all that attended.- , 2010-03-07

Osmotherley Phoenix kicked off as the village clock chimed 9.00am on a clear blue morning in this North Yorkshire Village and the pack of walkers and runners headed north on this route of three races - 17 mile, 26 mile or 33 mile - the last option was mine. The first 12 miles followed the Cleveland Way taking in woods ( where three of us got stung by wasps) and a skyline of the Northern Ridge of the North York Moors with panoramic views across the Vale of York and Teeside (where those without sunblock were already getting red). At the highpoint of the race, at half marathon distance the temperature was already into the 20's and more than one person had opted out of the longer race and I was left plodding along alone. This is why I do it - isolation in the middle of the moors with curlews and yep, Larks ascending made for a spectacular switch-back section down into the heart of the moors and half way round. At this point the Kit check took place and a quick lecture on fell running safety made sense of the heavy burden strapped round our shoulders and middle - I prefer the middle as I can't run with a sack on my back - I'm heavy enough. Miles 16 to 18 were possibly the worst of my running career to date - massive incline and blinding sun and heat in the high 20's made me stagger over the tops and the long run off which should have been a relief was most arduous on heather and broken ground. A runner who joined me at this point started to be sick, could keep nothing down (including my water bottle contents and last of jelly babies!) and we made a said parting at the penultimate checkpoint - me off on the last 10 miles and he into the St Johns Ambulance tent for a long rest and a shortcut back - a few awaited the sweeper bus here. The most southernley sweep of the Phoenix took us through fields and tracks and I was lucky to escape without a sheepdog bite as a pair of currs, loose in Lower Locker Farm caused havoc - the previous year, a few runners were nipped by the self same pair. The final climb to the top of Black Hambleton rewarded us with the spectacluar views once again of the Vale of York before a mad descent into the village of Osmotherley and the village Hall finishing line mercifully came in sight - thanks for putting a complimentary hose pipe up!!!. The Village Show was in full swing - saw the welly wanging competition but unfortunately missed the Ferrett Roulette?. Must get quicker than 7.57 next year ... Lyke Wake Race ( from Osmotherley, across the moors to Ravenscar and the Sea!) started from the Sheepwash Carpark about a mile north of Osmotherley but the handicap start meant that I was away at 5.55am alone - again, the first 12 miles followed the Cleveland Way but at this time of day the temperature was 9 degrees and under a cloudless sky was just perfect - the miles sped by ( must mention the new trail shoes - Brooks Cascadia 4 have been a revelation to me, a real armchair ride and not a blister or sore spot ) eventually I had my first bad patch - the 13 to 17 mile section of disused train track on the tops above Rosedale was a long, long grind ( if you feel this bad , eat something on the go = Gel and Jelly Babies and water ) Eventually arrived at the checkpoint at the Lion Pub on a high moorland road and the bowl of rice pudding with peaches was most welcome as was the first bit of company I'd met that day!. I've learnt not to stop at checkpoints otherwise I seize up and need a kick start! so straight on and now just follow the old straight track due east for about 20 miles! - across beautiful wastes of peat bogs, heather and cotton plants - interrupted by a few checkpoints but predominantly short stiff climbs and good long run offs. Tried not to notice Fylingdales Moor in the haze, some 2 hours away yet, but felt so good that I just kept going and by the time I arrived at Ellerby Beck Checkpoint I knew I'd do better than my predicted 10 hours, so, once again straight off. Trouble!, got a bit lost in meandering through tough heather tracks and made a tough detour to top of hill and ... at last the sea! - still a good way away yet but at least Fylingdales is behind us and yet another good run off to Jugger Howe the final checkpoint - Still on for hopefully sub 9 hours!. The last climb to the Radio Mast seemed to go on forever but as it arrived the whole of Robin Hoods Bay was laid out before me and an ancient pacer for a few runners pointed me to a shortcut through nettles and fields and down, down to the road for the final 1/2 mile. Pell Mell through the nettles and the field and onto the last home straight. "You can do it!" a voice piped up "Bloody hope so I thought, 41 and a half miles into a 42 mile race" and I was through the gates at Raven Hall and breasting the tape at 8 hours 59 mins ... a close shave. So, I still love the long trail, moorland stuff, I'm still a middle of the pack finisher, the fastest veteran was a sprightly 62 year old Keswick man who managed 6 hours 42 and came in 6th ( I was 30th) so it puts mine into context but to date I've raised over £400 for my charity and must say a big thankyou for all your messages of support. http://www.justgiving.com/Mike-Dobson - Mike D-H, 2009-07-15

36 miles of Pennine tracks around West Yorkshire

So, by now you've worked out that i'm taken by the long, slow, hilly stuff yet this, the third race in the Vasque series is only classed as being of "medium" length - the longer routes start coming within the next few weeks starting with the Fellsman 61 miler but fear not; no report will be forthcoming this year!. The calderdale starts at Sowerby Bridge and we pad out of the cricket ground as the clock struck nine on a clear blue morning complete with survival bag, map, compass, waterproofs and other paraphenalia (there are walkers doing this route today with even bigger rucksacks but they left three hours earlier, hopefully most will be overtaken!) and within four miles we've dipped into the valley and up onto the moors to the second checkpoint on a wind blown Crow Hill Nook - the views are spectacular as they will be all day but over my left shoulder I see Stoodley Pike in the near distance yet it is the location of checkpoint 13 - some 30 miles into the race so we have to steer away for the next seven hours or so until we're back under its shadow late in the afternoon. After many ups and downs of moors and reservoirs we're at the far extremity of the race and my steady pack of five becomes four as we lose a runner with cramp in both calves, he's last seen limping down towards Holme Chapel and he's done 18 miles - a long way back in the sweeper bus. The steepest climb in the race now takes us straight up the face of Thieveley Pike, some 450m up from the valley floor to checkpoint 8 where we stuff bananas and copious amounts of water, this is a proper climb but the worst is over and we plod away along the skyline back homewards. In the far, far distance Stoodley Pike, now a mere 11 miles ahead of us, looks very small but we're heading directly towards it and even though sometimes we are reduced to a shuffle we are still moving. The consensus has been to keep going without sitting at the checkpoints, we all learned from the previous race that time is lost and knees do stiffen if you remain still for any length of time and actually I'm not sure that I'd be able to get up. On the fast descent to the village of Lumbutts our gang is strung out and I pause to pick up a lost tally card! someones about to be disqualified at the next checkpoint! and as I head into the church yard to have my own tally stamped, one of our troop is emptying his rucksack looking for his lost tally, with the promise of a "good drink" he gratefull receives my find and we're away again. After Stoodley, we're now on the final descent passed Withins Clough reservoir - very dusty, peat stained and frankly exhausted but the final push up to the last checkpoint is a feat of endurance, rewarded by a graceful tarmac road meandering downhill into Sowerby and the cricket ground. As we appear into the field a motley group in the ground applauds and we've done it - where's the bowl of chili and the mug of tea!. Must be getting better at this as I've stuck with the Calderdale fell runners all day and the cameraderie has been great ..and ... we never got lost once!, the icing on the cake being that they haven't yet taken down the flags although I have missed the awards ceremony by an hour or so, oh and its 8 hours 25 since I left the ground this morning!. These races cost about a tenner each, are fully supported by such helpful volunteers and marshalls, St Johns Ambulance staff and the Mountain Rescue teams that everyone is in very capable hands, if nowt else they are "a grand day out!" - Osmotherly Phoenix or perhaps Lyke Wake race next but for a taster why not try the Tigers Todger on the 3rd May for a five mile intro to the hills?. Mike D-H. 2009-04-26- Mike D-H, 2009-04-28

32 miles of penine trails / roads with 4400ft of ascent/ descent.

Why am I on a start line at 8.00am fully packed with map / compass and waterproofs on a cold grey morning in Haworth with the ultramarathon fraternity? – I don’t belong here, have I trained enough, am I able to finish, will I live through the day?. Brett the organiser from Keighley & Craven A C sends us off through the Vasque series start flags opposite The Fleece Pub with a casual “off you go then” and we’re away up the cobbled street of Haworth out onto the moors towards Top Withens; the ruined farmstead where heathcliffe was supposed to hang out the upper lattice windows most winter evenings howling “Cathy!” into the darkness. I’m howling now as the quads complain and we`re only a few miles up, with the first watercheck 7 miles distant and a screaming gale into our faces keeping us upright. The pennine way snakes away and we’re Lancashire bound on a mixture of calf- deep peat and stone slabs before a great tarmac stretch to the Widdop reservoir water stop and then more climbing of stoney roads over the top to Cam reservoir and onto checkpoint 2 near Burnley before heading south and, for a yorkshireman thankfully back east. The track climbs the road before turning downhill through a mire of a field and then the very welcome hotdog- providing checkpoint 3 with the first of the teas on offer before a causeway full of rocks and cow muck heads slowly downhill towards Todmorden thro a typically west yorkshire setting of high walls, interminable ginnels and back streets. These are suicidal descents down stone flagstone stairs but once in the valley bottom the “grass wall” (sorry field) in front of us signifies the start of the 400m climb through the tiny village of mankinholes (checkpoint and hot cross buns / jam doughnuts) and onwards and upwards what seems like step ladders to Stoodley Pike – a huge dark monument that’s been on everyones horizon for the last ten miles or so. This climb is so steep I can barely breathe and am unable to drink water for gasping “only a half marathon to go now” i’m reliably informed before it’s down from Stoodley Pike. I now look like the mummy – so stiff legged with cramp that the steep downhill rocky track behind callis wood into Hebden Bridge finally does for me and I shuffle back up a cruel set of stone steps up into the village of Heptonstall – getting lost doesn’t help in t’village! Before it’s down to the penultimate checkpoint at Horse Bridge and then off up the final 8 miles of hill aiming for the aptly named Top o’ The Stairs. This is the final definite climb that goes ever on and on but miraculously I’m at the top and with Leeshaw reservoir bathed in sunlight in front of me I leg the mile or so downhill with the end in sight! – No wait, yes it’s another hill and i’m back to the shuffle. Keep pushing Amanda says, bugger off! I think and shake an imaginary fist at her, finally turning right across Pennine Hill then back down towards Haworth. Lo! Haworth church in sight and i’m across the heather round the graveyard and down the cobbled street –frightening the tourists with our wild men appearance - we manage a good dash towards the community centre to cross the line... I’m chatting casually with the marshall before realising I have to go into the centre to confirm my retrun and finishing time! I’m shot to pieces and hurting everywhere but its over and I dive into the compimentary bowl of stew at the end. Even though the winner finished this in 4.18, the clock says 7.24 and actual running time for me of 6.57 means I`ve just completed my Everest and met some pretty great people along the way. I’ve loved it and all thanks to Brett and the crew of Keighley and Craven A.C. for organising and marshalling a great event. I’ve done enough to get round but you can’t blag a good time and its a big reality check for me to see what it takes to be good at this stuff If you can’t run faster than Ryan, Tim, Amanda, Chris et al then run further than em! The High Peak 40 miler beckons later in the year and the Osmotherly Phoenix at a cool 33, anyone fancy them? Come on over with me to the Dark Side! Join the Ultramarathon trail runners – you know you want to. ;-)- Mike D-H, 2009-03-31

1st race in the new KMRT series.

What looked to be a promising day, weather wise turned into a down pour about 3/4 way through the race. The course was good, undulating but no major hills and 99% off road. Apart from getting lost briefly on the way to the start line in the woods, everything went smoothly. Good event, well organised. Good turn out from the local clubs Kimberworth, Maltby and Rotherham. - Ryan_Cudworth, 2009-03-08

The Norton Nine 1/03/2009 If all had gone to plan we would have been enjoying a few days away in the Lake District, but plans don't always work out. I was faced, unexpectedly with the choice of a cross country at Retford or the nine mile road race at Norton. Went to bed on Saturday night still undecided, unprepared for either. Sunday's weather looked great for a run. My off road shoes were still "stiff" with dry mud from thier last outing so it had to be Norton. Not entirly sure where Norton was, I put the postcode of race HQ into the GPS & set off in the direction of Askern. I arrived in good time and was directed into a field to park opposite race HQ. Registration was quick despite the number of competitors entering on the day. The pile of "offtrac" entry forms which I took along were eagerly passed aound. Thirty minutes prior to the start, no sign of any familiar Tickhill faces so returned to the warmth of the car. This was a mistake. Five minutes before the start I locked the car & returned to the road. There were no other runners on the road!! I now know the Norton Nine start line is 1/4 mile from the car park! The quick run to the start was not the best of gentle warm ups. Squeezed in somewhere near the front & the gun went. The plan was to aim for a sub 60 time. All was going to plan. The garmin was showing 6.30 pace, I was feeling good, even at 4.5 miles. 29 Mins on the clock, all was well. Having not done this race before the BIG hill at 5 miles was a bit of a shock to the legs. It isn't so much of a steep hill, it's just that the road is boringly straght and just keeps on going up, for over 1/4mile !!!! .The second and third hill climb really took their toll and all hope of a sub 60 was gone. 7 miles came up wih only 12 minutes left of the hour. I could feel a hot spot under my left arch. Blisters arn't usually a problem but this one felt like I was leaving a trail of blood on the road with each step. Just ahead was a vest from Rothwell.He was a bit "lardy", not moving too well and much to my disgust, was ahead of me! I have a problem with competitions and people from Rothwell. This goes back to a yard of ale drinking match. I came a close second to a girl from Rothwell. It is quite ridiculous what spurs you on in these situations but Rothwell were not going to beat Tickhill today. The end of the race has a cruel sting in its tail. A short, sharp little hill, just enough to take away those precious seconds in a final push to the line. Final time 62.00 Retford would have been a better bet! Will return next year and put a spare minute or two in the bag before the hills at five miles. A very well organised race, well signed and marshald on almost traffic free roads. It deserves its position as the first of our club champioship races. C.T.- , 2009-03-03

Road race out and back course. Not very exciting apart from achieving a PB it is relatively flat but with a subtle sadistic upish finish!! Expensive but suppose pays the lucky winner! Canmt grumble as every man and his dog gets a PB AC:) dewsbury road runners

A mutli terrain 13.65 mile run

All was going well at the Ropsley Raid, the conditions appeared to be perfect for running. It could have been icy and the ground could have been hard and tough. Appearances can be deceptive, a bit like Amanda’s car boot. You see, it’s not really a car boot, it’s more like a glove compartment under the bonnet, except it’s not quite big enough to cater for a pair of gloves. Amanda was not to be deterred, in her usual indomitable way the rucksack containing all my running apparel was going to fit along with her baggage too, ….so slam went the bonnet…..job done! OK, to the race. The first mile or so was uneventful, we had run this course before so we did know what to expect. However just as the first mile ticked over, there was a 90 degree right turn, and to our delight we had our first encounter with hurricane Katrina. Katrina was in no compromising mood, and was determined to push us back half a mile. However Katrina, up to that point, had never met Amanda, there was only going to be one outcome! Katrina wilted and went off to surprise us further down the course, when perhaps our resolve wasn’t as strong. A couple of miles or so in we came across a field, which had a stile as its entry point. As I was negotiating the stile, I had a quick glance behind and realised I had spent too much time negotiating as now there was a queue. Onwards and upwards….The same said field had two very active horses (I said active, not attractive!!) running around together playfully. It appeared to be playfully, until I got about half the way across the field. The two horses were now stood in the top corner of the field and shortly began to gallop in my direction. For some reason at that point the words ‘You can run but you can’t hide’ popped into my head. One of the horses decided to veer off to left …so now it’s one on one. The only thing I could think to do at that critical point was to string numerous expletives together, in the hope that this would intimidate my assailant. It appeared to work as Shergar went off in search of another victim. Just as I was getting over my brief encounter and heading for the sanctuary of the stile at the other end of the field, I heard a shriek from behind and was pushed into the hedge by a fellow runner who was also been tracked by the horse. After that the miles went by, albeit rather slowly. About mile 9 we hit one of many ploughed fields. I glanced ahead hoping and urging solid ground to appear. Instead I could see Amanda not too far in the distance, with what appeared to be huge feet, a bit like the ‘monster slippers’ that you may have seen or been bought by relative at Christmas who thought it would add to the family entertainment. Now I was running a little low on the blood sugar by now, so shrugged this off as another hyperglycaemic episode. However I soon came to realise that with every step I gained about 4lbs in weight on my feet and I too had monster feet! It was at this point that I briefly caught up with Amanda, just as a passing runner was commenting that she looked like a Hobbit. Amanda didn’t take too kindly to this and it seemed to giver her a second wind and off she went. Talking of second wind, soon after we were to experience another bout of Katrina, but fortunately this time, not for too long. At mile 11 ½ there was a welcome drinks station with a selection of cakes. I was in dire need of sugar. On any other day, I may have stood at that table quite a while contemplating which cake was the best option. However I was representing the club, I was proudly wearing the TRAC vest, I couldn’t be seen stood at a table having a conversation with the marshall about the many delicacies on offer! At that point I secretly wished I had brought my second claim Clowne vest along. In the end I opted for what appeared to be home made fudge, fantastic! Well, unfortunately not, as I took my first bite the fudge sort of crumbled and I discovered that I had chosen nothing better than a brown sugar lump with a raisin in the middle. Anyhow, the sugar seemed to help a little. With about half a mile to go, in the distance I could see Amanda and a couple of other runners stood around in the field. Surely they hadn’t given up?, What monstrosity lay ahead now, I wondered. I should have known however……Amanda was lost….and there was not a Totley vest in sight! We soon were on the right track and stumbled over the finish line, saying that well known often used running phrase ‘Never Again’. See you next year!- Ryan_Cudworth, 2009-01-12

And so this ironically funny tale begins: Drinking before a half marathon is never wise but then when you have decided not to run anyway does it matter? But then if you change your mind mmm slight problem. I woke up to find a pretty flurry of snow in Misson and so thought " oh why not i'll be fine it's only a hangover" What I hadnt realised was that the race was due to start at 10am not 10.30 mmmm 30 mins to go, "yeh i'll make it". So I dashed to the car in running kit "oh the car has been rummiged through overnight mmmm XXXX will deal with that later" so off i went to Clowne......the car petrol light lit up in Worksop oh dear(suppose some people might have given up at this point but you know me!)...argghh I had left my purse at home in the rush...."oh I'll wangle it surely at the petrol station?".. so in typical comical fashion I dash in to the nearest garage in my racing kit...god what a site..one customer looked at this skinny long legged girl and said " Am I missing summat? or am I still drunk?. Anyway suffice to say with the powers of pursuasion I convinced the staff I was not a hardened criminal but a "respectable member of the community" and that I would return with the cash after the race. So off I went to Clowne and parked in Wilko's who started to write my reg number down!! "Sod it I am doing this race". As I dashed to the start line the gun fired "oh that's not bad I can nip in at the back" HA HA this was the fun run the main race had gone 8-9 mins earlier!! A race marshall amusingly said well there's the start line "when your ready in your own time you go!" So off I trotted feeling like a complete and utter CLOWNE to the first mini R'Bout where Reg shouted words to the effect "you'll soon catch them up" At this point I couldnt remember the route through the centre but managed to work it out and the bumped into the marshall walking back where Karen shouts " What the hell happened to you ...go on you'll get to the front ha ha" Anyway I eventually overtook the sweeper bus and finally saw some fellow Tracsters well into the race to shout words of XXXX at Shaun and Paul who thought the whole thing was hillarious and that I could still catch Ryan and nail him at the 10 mile hill!!. I was never going to run like the wind so I happily steadily ran my very own race in the freezing cold and thought that the Whisky had been a very beneficial preparatory strategy which kept me warm and chirpy throughout. This is a great scenic half marathon which is testing but worth the views and the atmosphere (once you find the people)! Give it a go I certainly was not going to miss it. KoR AC

What a fantastic experience that was!! Firstly I would like to say thank you to you all who have given me so much support and encouragement during the last 4 months training programme!! Couldnt have done it without you. The Marathon was as you would expect extremely well organised which provided lots of goodies in and amongst the experience. The Marathon starts on Staten Island and goes over the huge Verrazano bridge which is one fantastic spectacular structure! into Brooklyn where the crowds were amazing!! Then up into Queens..bronx and then back to manhattan where the intensity of the crowds was absolutely amazing. The course was great with some tricky inclines at some tough mile points....dont think NY city is flat it blinking isnt. No killer hils though. Despite the dodgy noisy inn we stayed in, the jet-lag, the miles of walking sightseeing I had a great race! think the crowds and the adrenaline boosted my performance as well as the genuine NY bagels! I never thought never again I thought right....what is my body really made of!! to be continued.... cant wait for the next.. Amanda ingnycmarathon.org

My suporters view of the GNR im happy to say i did manage to catch sight of one or two who i knew but unfortunatly i did miss birthday the girl dispite me being stood on a wall with a huge blue banner "happy 50th Diane" on it. Once again it seemed to be a never ending sea of people most of whom were smiling perhaps because they kept squirting water at us. Well done to you all and despite the transport problems i know most of you enjoyed the run, but i dont think its tempted me into running it again next year i much prefer to do the low key runs.

Absolutely outstanding! What a fantastic stunning race. Starts at Ladybower Resovoir, Peaks and finished at the Robin Hood Inn Baslow, Derbyshire. The course was extremely tough with a total ascent over 3000 ft travelling from the resovoir over to Bradfield Gate over steep moorland before reaching the first edge: Derwent. Over then to Moscar lodge over and up to Stanage edge. From here the race went up to Burbage North and South moors before reaching another checkpoint near the Fox House pub. From here along through a pleasant run through Longshaw estate before the climb up to the start of Frogett and Burbar edge before finally reaching the Curbar edge and Baslow. Very steep rocky decent into Baslow where a surplus of mars bars awaits!!! This course require you to carry certain items for safety including compass, maps, assort clothes, whistle, food & drink, emergency blanket.... so that was an added bit weight there. Because of the good weather we were allowed to carry the skinny option. But still I have never ran with 2L water on my back before i have now turned into a camel. There were Water stations but not until 10-11 miles so was glad when some nice chap managed to get my camel thingy to work! Not easy to navigate either so i tagged along with two chaps for some time..unfort our map man got us slightly off course and i clocked 22 miles in total. I left them too after a while and they got lost again before the finish. I managed to find some nice younger models in front to tag along to to the end. Several checkpoints with water as said later on and at most other later CPs with mars bars....mmm. TS at the end and money raised for Edale Mountain Rescue team who did get called out up at stanage edge and drove off with the trophy!! Missed the course record by 3 mins after because of the extra 2 miles!! will be back 2009! AC

A trail run in the forest at Bawtry

Well, what can I say....one of my favourite runs of the year!! It's not that far (in running distance)..to discount a beer or two the night before. It's not that far (in driving distance)..to enable a lazy morning in bed. What is really really unfortunate about this event is that Maltby RC have laid claim to Bawtry Forest before TRAC could have done so! Seriously though, very very well organised event, I will do this every year permitting. No traffic, brilliant trail route, love the alternative memento at the end (not another t-shirt). If you haven't tried trail running before you should...my bet is that you will prefer it to road running- Ryan_Cudworth, 2008-09-17

Inner city half marathon which was very well organised and supported. Seperate arrangements for coprate challenge and funrun were made so that this did not affect the main race. Race start categorised into predicted finish times. Plenty of water, gatorade and sponge stations on route and course well marshalled and coned off. No trouble with traffic. Started on Cookridge st. and finished the side of Millenium Sq. The route was not easy with hills between 2.5-4 M and then between 5.5-6M, then from 7M downhill/flat with a subtle rise coming into the last 400yrds finish which was soul destroying!! Goody bag and TS and Gatorade at finish. Good atmosphere and live screen covering the event too. I had a great race and clocked my epic goal so feel over the moon..Will be back next year. AC

I supose the name gives it away but for some reason i didnt see the word "tough" till in the que for the loo and sure enough when i looked at my number it was there in black ink for all to see. I think my mind had been taken over by the sausage & chips at the finish + a T-shirt all for £6 (if any vegies want to come along next year please do i will eat your sausages they as were yummy) The run was tough but i so enjoyed it i think i only saw 4 cars all way round and the views were spectacular and if you fancy a visit to the coast after its only apx 14mile from Clethorpes. There were some good runners from up and down the country one that comes to mind from Rugby was 2nd lady finishing in 1.08.18 not unusual i know as our very own Amanda would do that but this lady is twice her age! yes she's a vet 60. Everyone's reaction at the presentation was my god....well words to that efect!!! It realy is one to do next year and its ran on a Saturday so for those of you that go to church there realy is no excuse. www.woldvets.co.uk

This 10mile starts at the bottom of a 4mile hill, yes that does say 4mile and there are more to come but thats what makes it a nice event to do. There were just 4 of us this year and all 4 enjoyed it saying we would do it again next year so lets see if we can double or even triple our turn out next year.

This was a fantastic race for stunning scenery but of course these views come at a price! It was a very very very hilly course with a total climb of 3015ft on my Garmin over the chevin 'n' bogs, woodlands, long grass (my fave!) full of large cowpats with very little firm surface until the last 2 miles ish. The majority of the climb was over the first 9 miles with then a steady descent with some last minutes up and downs. This race challenges you psychologically as well as physically and i'm sure good for you!! It was well organised by Belper Harriers and well sign posted although it did say self navigational so I WAS please to see lots of markers. There were 3 water stations and checkpoints with drinks, fudge and fruit jellies. TS to all finishers. Good value for money!! I was pleased with my performance for a change anyway and it was certainly a good marathon training run. It would be hard to find another as long and as tough as this.........AC

A Line in the Sand – the 2008 Coastal Run

We gathered together, a thousand runners on the beach at Beadnell, along the widest starting line we had ever seen, literally a line in the sand. Phil’s eyes lit up – “I’ll be in the front row at the start for the first time” he chuckled. Amanda looked steely eyed and committed, Louise and Christine lurked towards the back and then we were off – across the sand around the bay – pounding through the pools and streams left behind by the retreating tide and with Vangelis Chariots of Fire coming unbidden into everyone’s head. Twenty hours earlier, Christine, Steve, Louise and Nicky were waiting in the car park of the Fox and Hounds for Amanda. No sign as the appointed hour came and went. Christine, ever the stern disciplinarian, made a decision and we pushed on to Tesco for petrol and to pick up Karen. Luckily Amanda had caught up by then, blaming wayward cats for her late departure. Our convoy then set off, Steve keeping Amanda company in her little Ka and the rest of the gang in the Christinemobile. The weather got worse, the rain lashing down when we stopped for coffee. Mid afternoon, we finally entered the quaint little village of Alnmouth, and found the Schooner Inn Hotel – allegedly the most haunted Inn in England. First impressions were not good. The place had seen better days and a distinct odour of stale curry hung in the air. Phil and Di were there to welcome us, cups of coffee in hand, just as if they were American tourists. In a sort of reverse car keys gambit, Christine adroitly acquired the key for the biggest room and marched off with Nicky. Phil and Steve shyly entered their room, relieved to see a clear metre of space between the twin beds. Amanda then threw a wobbly as her room had spiders and was not up to her standards of cleanliness (well she is a nurse!). However, we pushed on and went for a wander round the delights of the village. The grand tour didn’t take long – the beach is lovely and the weather was getting better but there’s not a whole lot to it. The longest job was choosing somewhere for supper – the committee decision-making process took at least half an hour. Later on, going out for tea, Christine roused out the manager and ordered porridge for 0730 the next morning. He was very nice but said he had never cooked porridge before but would give it a go. We headed off to the Red Lion for dinner which was very nice. The committed runners stayed on diet coke (Amanda) and the not so committed and non-runners hit the wine and beer (everyone else). After dinner, Christine, Karen and Louise headed off for Alnwick to see pals from another club and the rest of the team had another walk on the beach before mooching around the pubs trying to find something lively. Phil got more than he bargained for when he energetically led us into the Sun Inn, a bright yellow building. It was full of men, with nice pastel coloured T-shirts, lots of moustaches and nice nails and a very camp DJ. Phil stopped dead, as though hit by an elephant gun and was only rescued by Nicky striding to the bar and ordering drinks. Phil shuffled out to the smokers’ alley and lurked in the shadows until we had drunk our drinks and could safely leave. Back at the hotel, we found the old Bill at the reception, apparently giving the poor little Indian guy a hard time because of the teenage drinkers in the conservatory bar (they were well away when we arrived in the afternoon and now, at ten o’clock, they were legless). Much to our delight we also found that the Paranormal Investigation tour which had been advertised for £40 a head (and was stated to last from 10:00 to 04:00!) had been cancelled due to lack of interest. And so to bed, where mischief soon ensued. Not quite car keys yet but Amanda wasn’t having the spiders and Phil wasn’t having Steve so a bit of shuffling took place. Modesty causes a veil to be drawn over exactly who slept with whom but everyone was awoken at 03:00 by a blood-curdling shriek. Its paralysing effect was quickly diluted by the sound of giggling and drunken repartee in a Scottish accent. Next morning, a disgruntled band of tired runners trickled into the dining room. Porridge was off. Milk was off after we used the first jug on our cornflakes and in our tea. Another poor guest who came in shortly after us had to resort to opening a dozen little milk cartons to float his dusty looking cereal. Nobody had had any hot water, the door knobs kept coming off, the bowel movements of half the lady runners was giving cause for concern – not an auspicious start to a gruelling 14 mile race over beach and cliff path. And so to Beadnell, for the start. Christine and Nicky were popping pills 10 minutes before the start whilst trying to keep warm in the car. We all jogged down to the start and the bowel afflicted ladies surged into the toilet queue. When the starting hooter went, Nicky and Di were still in the toilet – joining the race in true Alf Tupper style several minutes after we had all set off. The race was brilliant. The sand was wet but who cares when you have that fantastic music from Chariots of Fire in your head? The marshals were friendly; the sun was out, the views tremendous and the distance, due to the nice low tide, turned out to be “only” 13.25 miles. So we all did really well. Amanda streaked home first and then moaned about how she hated every minute of it. Phil was next and then Steve with Louise only minutes later. Christine maintained her usual metronomic pace and Nicky bullied Di into keeping going and not swooning at the feet of the handsome paramedic she was making eyes at. Karen as the only groupie did a great job of cheering us in and pretending that she would really have liked to run if only she had managed to get a place. And that was about it really. A couple of drinks in the curry reeking Schooner Inn Hotel, and then off we went, stopping for a welcome meal in Warkworth. Christine did a sterling job of driving us home and that’s it for another year. Tickhill was well represented but I’m sure we could get more next year but you have to be quick as it fills up really fast. There is a plot to hire a caravan on a nice campsite to make sure we avoid curry and ghosts – sounds like a plan. See you all next year.- Steve H, 2008-08-06

Well organised and marshalled road race. Known as a flat course apart from the mile uphill section! The rain stopped and the humidity fell so conditons were good. Every finisher got a coaster rather than another TS! different!! I had a good race smashing my Askern 10k PB so was really pleased! and a nice prize which was not another trophy!! but a lovely set of 6 crystal glasses!! Will def be back in 2009!

This is a must do!! It is a fabulous race which involves some self navigation and checkpoints! oh dear for amanda. The race starts and finishes in Rother Valley Country Park and involves running around Rother Valley, Treeton and Ulley lakes. Dont let the course description fool you into thinking it is flat!! it isn't with some testing steep climbs to put you in your place. Conditions were not bad warm but windy at times but at least the muddy bits were quite dry. 80% of the course was off road so the scenery was lovely. Water available at the checkpoints too with several marshalls around to help you on your way.......but no that wasn't enough for me like a sheep I went against what I thought and followed a fellow Totley runner the wrong way...this was at 13.5 ish miles and I WAS in the first lady by minutes!at this point, unfortunately this cost me minutes and my Holmfirth rival got in front before I got back to the point of getting lost..i pushed ahead but finished less than min ish behind for 2nd lady! gutting to say the least, my own fault I will get over it, the cold bath has just calmed me down anyway!! Fab race though it would be great to go as a team ....and the complementary cakes and tea at the end are to die for..there was every type of cake/bun you could think of..plenty too!! goody bag and finisher mug given. Well organised. will shut up now. AC x Killamarsh Kestrels

off road mountain marathon

A must for any of you that enjoy a challenge and fantastic scenery as there is 2.800ft of climbing. A field of 500 took part again this year, there are some long hard climbs and not always good under foot also once on top you have the peat bogs but what a feeling it is when you are up there (yes breath taking) in the full sense if the word. The weather, organisation and support were once again fantastic from both friends and strangers, this being my 4th and most definitely my best run, finishing in 5.26 i had hoped for just under 6hr so I'm thrilled with my time and i still had my jam sarnie and cake at 13mile and again at 18mile along with my cup of tea, you cant be rude and refuse can you! You do have to cary a back pack with emergency food, water, map, compass, whistle, first aid kit and water-proofs with you but its so worth it. At the finish you are treated to pie, mash, peas or beans with fruit and rice pud for afters also everyone gets a badge, certificate and a piece of pottery from that area all this for £15 i hope to go back next year as i get a silver badge with it being my 5th and its also the 30th anniversary. I have many photos for any of you that may be interested and many stories you will end up wishing you had never asked.- , 2008-06-16

A undulating race around Wentworth and Elsecar. Challenging at times but a nice race and a shame this is the last one I think. 3 Tracsters present on the night. Generous prizes and finisher medal and water bottle. Organised by the Milton Arms, Elsecar Barnsley

Known as a popular competitive flat fast 10 miler around the National Water Sports Centre Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham. Pleasant race around the water park with lots of spectactors even on a rainy evening. This race is well organised and marshalled. I got 10.13 miles on my Garmin which made all the difference to my time!!! This race is fast and tiring as you are constantly running flat out without any breaks. I blew up at the 9 mile point feeling really knackered but a guy close by helped me keep going to maintain my 3rd place! a tough sprint finish though as the 4th lady was trying to pip me to the post. I finished two sec in front: talk about close and an emotional ending!! T shirt given to all finishers and plenty of water available. Recommend this race to anyone wanting to give it a good go for PBs at 10 miles.!! AC

A pleasant flatish 10k run along the humber bridge which was nicer than I imagined! About 400 ish runners on what turned out to be a dry run once the rain had done its dash earlier. Water station half way and some support with good marshalls. After the disatrous events at Maltby I didnt think I would be going today but I was fine although not quite on top form! Pleased I got there and coming 4th was a bonus....i'll be back 2009. AC Hull Athletics Club

I don’t think I’ve enjoyed a race so much! The course is about 6 miles and mostly off-road through fields, a wooded area and includes a loop around Roche Abbey. The conditions were treacherous but in my shiny new trail running shoes I was invincible! :0) The course was tough due to the steep inclines - first 4 miles felt like it was all up hill but it was pretty much downhill from there to the finish. The mud and rain only added to the fun as once I was soaked to the skin I stopped tip toeing around puddles and mud and ran straight through them - great fun! The event was really well organised despite the ambiguous finish line(!) and the hot drink and sandwiches at the end were most appreciated! We had 4 runners from Tickhill and won two prizes (Amanda and Christine), so not a bad nights running! Well done girls!

Fell Run www.totleyac.co.uk

What a breath taking run in more ways than one.... This is a 5.5mile fell run so yes its a tough one but so worth it. I havent done it for last 2 year but im so glad i made the effot this year. The start and finish is at cricket inn Totley its even a fab pub as well as a fab run. Plenty of cheery marshals out on the fells and its only a few quid to enter must admit you dont get anything for finishing apart from self satisfaction and those fantastic view's although there are prizes for age cat. If you fancy taking your running a step further then this could be for you!!! and like me you may find you realy enjoy it.- Christine, 2008-05-21

Excellent off road rural race. TRAC

More tricky than you expect with differing terrain. Well organised and luvverly marshals of course!! Perfect weather and thanks for the buns at the end a lovely homecoming!! Can see this new race being really popular. Congrats to all who raced and organised this great race!! AC - Amanda, 2008-05-18

An undulating course on a blisteringly hot day! Well organised and really friendly marshalls. The first 5km is the toughest with the ups and downs and then it even outs with a downhill/flat second half. Many run on country lanes with some canal towpath. Lots of local support and drinks and biscuits at the end with a BHF red tee shirt. Problems with loo queues before start with most resorting to the bushes ,entertaining a little old lady directing you in to the trees!! Third year running for this event with many more runners this year, would recommend this rural race. Will be back next year.

This formed part of the Bentley Health Fair and gave three events to choose from: Fun Run, !0k Trail Race and a 10kish Walk. Weather was great but warm at times for racing. Conditions under foot muddy and slippy at times. All race off road with mixed terrain. This is the second year running for this nice race which wasnt too badly organised at all. Good marshalling and friendly too which was great for me because i ran all the way on my lonesome!! The route itself goes along the transpennine way leading up to the pit top before circling down again. Just before the 7km was a final sting in the tail hill (I know its hard to think Bentley has hills but we found them). Plenty of water, energy drinks, bananas at the end with a plesant finisher medal. Well done to us four that took part from TRAC. Would definetly do this small (36 finishers this year)and friendly run next year. AC North Doncaster Development Trust

Largest 26.2 mile run in uk

My supporters report, left hotel 8.30am walk over Tower Bridge to apx 22.5 mile area a good viewing point as you can also see runners at 12.5 mile mark. Att my banner to the barriers then comes the long wait, but at long last some action wheelchair entrants followed by the elite ladies flash by, then another wait before the male elite go by, they pass us at 1.01 on the clock then the steady flow of runners come's that's when the hard work starts as its just a sea of people so there's no wounder we missed Paul on his way down but we did spot and cheer the girls on who looked really good and waved back. As they made there way to the finish it was reversed as managed to spotted Paul but not the girls, maybe due to people putting up there brollies, thanks to technology and Julie on end of phone i was able to leave my cheering post knowing they had got to the finish. From my view a fantastic event but having done it the runners memories will be far greater than mine as a suporter. Congratulations you 4 you did fantastic.- , 2008-04-16

A Multi-terrain like fell (or i should say hell) race. This was scenic, popular but very very tough and not for the faint-hearted. With lots of mud, boggy moorland and hills to keep you on track this half marathon is one to do if you like a gutsy challenge. Weather conditions were good but there was an icy cold wind up on the moors. Tricky route and very much like an agility course dodging tree roots, rocks, holes which just added to the hill start, a muddy climb earlier on then a flatter stretch along the towpath and woods, with a gruelling climbs towards the end especially between 11.5 to 12.5 miles reaching another 800ft. This is one of those races you say never again but of course we always succumb like women describe childbirth!! 2nd race in 3 of the airedale triple challenge event. Surely the 3rd will be easier??? Baildon Runners Early entry recommended dates out for 2009 already!

From ranby prison

A good local 10 miler an unusal start time of 2pm but this suited me as i ran Coniston the day before. The run goes out toward Retford Barnby Moor along green mile there is apx 1 mile off road just before you get to Ranby but it's a fairly even track and no big hills to contend with. Nice to be able to take part in something close to home this is also a prison service race so 2 lots of prize giving. If any one would like to do the 10k same run but miss out the Retford part it's 22nd June 6pm start- , 2008-04-16

round coniston lake cumbria

What a fab event well worth the 300 mile round trip, even the weather was good to us. Its not an easy run very up and down all way round start and finish at school with parking tea coffee and home made cakes before and after the run. Plenty of changing/showers including a naked tattooed man! Ask Vanessa for more info on that subgect... There's no wounder you have to enter early as there is an extensive prize list, all made from local slate we did cheer on a local Ken Chapman from Kimberworth was 1st over 65. Im sure we will be back next year.- , 2008-04-16

Flatish Half Marathon and through the Belvoir Estate

Losing an hours sleep due to the clocks going forward, wasn't the best prep for a half marathon. However upon arriving the weather was perfect for running, even though early indications were that it was going to be a cold one. The organisation was great, especially at the end where the results were up on the board almost as soon as you crossed the line. The course was relatively flat with a few inclines and declines, and the scenery was fantastic. Thouroughly recommend this run, will be back next year- Ryan_Cudworth, 2008-03-30

A Multiterrain 10K Race 1 of 3 of the Airedale Triple Challenge Skyrac running club

A tough hilly multi-terrain race which had to be revised 3 hrs before the start due to horrendous weather conditions. (There was 4in snow in Misson this morning) The usual route through esholt taking in 'Emmerdale farm' was partly re-routed making a the race 9.5k ish 2 lap course. The snow, the calf deep mud and water made it fun?? and slippy on this bright morning in Leeds. The route included a steep muddy 569ft ascent not once but twice just to make sure you felt like commiting suicide. The start area was tight so i didnt get nearer enough the front and got stuck at times. This is usually an excellent 10k i am told and it was a little dissapointing it wasnt the day to give it your all. Nonetheless it was terrifically muddy and it has saved me money on a mud wrap! A good turn out from South, West and North Yorks clubs. Managed to scrape a 7th L. Sold it to you then?? Skyrac Running Club - acrundall, 2008-03-23

Rural scenic route starting from Low Ackworth through local pretty villages. Ackworth Road Runners & AC

A challenging 1/2 Marathon but a very scenic and rural route. Windy conditions to start but this improved as we changed direction! Good atmosphere and a good turn out from TRAC. The only organisational let down was related to one of the carparks causing mayhem before the race: mud everywhere with great difficulty in moving cars in and out..with few near misses. TRAC members found themelves strategically placed to help out pushing cars, directing traffic and thank goodness for Tracey's rocket cardboard (sorry kids)! Norman was so delighted to be surrounded by women and a mud that he forget to swap his trainers over!! By the end of the race the marshalls had sorted this out. Overall a good testing run of which everyone did really well. Would recommend trying this one out. The race also included the Yorks 1/2 M Championships.- acrundall, 2008-03-16

Rural scenic route starting from Low Ackworth through local pretty villages. Ackworth Road Runners & AC

One of Springs Highlights set in Hampshire. After much soul searching it was decided to enter Fleet (Hampshire) just after Xmas to help my friend train for London and an excuse for a few Beers after wards as well!! I am not going to mumble on about the process of applying for the race as its too long and hopefully the organisers have taken stock and will improve on it for next year. So it was with relief that we turned up at Fleet on a damp miserable Sunday morning to run in one of the Spring Highlights! Despite the weather, the marquee just about fitted everyone in who need to drop off their bags, with friendly staff, and close to the finish line! Despite the start which was a bit of mesh mash as a small alley lead 2000 people to the promised line not helped by a large puddle that had just developed just waiting to get your brand new white trainers wet , really wet, dirty, muddy and soaking wet, making you want to cry wet in readiness for the next couple of hours. So stopping primed athletes in their tracks and then we were off hopefully our chips working which is fantastic for mass starts! Fleet the lived up to its praise, a truly flat course, feeling as if your going down rather than up, roads closed, well marshalled and a run that was enjoyable through scenic countryside. The time was not important, however well pleased with constant 8 minute mile pace and Achilles tendentious in tow A nice copper medal to give you a nasty rash to add to your joggers nipple and goody bag that was ideal for putting in your wet damp trainers in for the next couple of weeks, made up for the problems before hand. Yes there are a few rooms for improvements but £15 well spent and if your down in the area next year give it a go. Its cheaper than Bath and I think Hastings which are both much bigger events and no Scobby Doo! www.fleethalfmarthon.com

Quite hilly road circuit around Norton.

Good turnout for this race which was much better organised than last year and the weather was much kinder! Wind was still whistling at the start and there were a few runners looking a bit blue before we got going. However, once we got stuck into the hills, keeping warm wasn't a problem! I brought a guest with me - Emily Anderson who works in my office who is a triathlete and is in the TA - and she was only a minute or two behind me, and I was a few mins behind Faith and Tracy. Amanda had been finished for hours by the time we turned up and was shivering hard by the time we moved off. Overall, a good run and a nice start to the Club Championship- Mokassa, 2008-03-02

Sleaford Lincs

Undulating half marathon not helped by the windy conditions. Organisation was good, apart from the start, which affected the middle and consequently the end! The lead car took us on a lap of the fun run course, instead of heading out on the road, this meant that the mile markers were way out as we had already ran a mile and quarter. This also meant that the organisers had an hour to move the finish to a new location so that we didn't end up running a 14.5 mile half marathon, they managed it to their credit, but it did mean we had to walk a mile or so back to the start. Apart from this fiasco, I would do it again, the scenery was great, the route challenging, but good for the marathon training- Ryan_Cudworth, 2008-02-24

BRACING TWO LAP FIXTURE BURSTING WITH PB POTENTIAL ALONG THE EAFRONT BETWEEN BLACKPOOL'S NORTH PIER AND LITTLE BISPHAM (RW)

This was a great race for a PB depending on the wind. The conditions were windy to start but this improved on the second lap and the rough sea coming up onto the prom were great to cool you down whilst you ran! I have not done a lap course before but it wasn't too dull, it had a good atmosphere and good commentary by Brendan Foster. The finish line was a little confusing but apart from that a race worth doing. Cheapo TS with goody bag at the end. Would do this one again to boost my confidence. Fab race for me in general hedding minutes off my PB!- acrundall, 2008-02-25

A challenging race good for marathon training

Now then, after the cat became obsessed with my jelly babies and mauled them and teething problems with my Garmin I thought hey what else will go wrong!! Nonetheless this event is a must it was fabulous, well organised, very friendly marshalls, fairly frequent water stations (could have done with an energy drink one for those who didnt go with some) and above all fantastic scenery which for once i took note of!! The weather was glorious although a little too warm towards the end for me but you couldnt have asked for better weather. The firt 23 k for amazingly felt great and i was amazed at how comfortable i was once i recovered from the rolling hills oh yes they kept on coming! The last 3k was a killer for me with the final 400m on the school grass fields which seemed like a mile. But i was chuffed at finishing in 2hr 19m 13 sec! will await my overall position. The atmophere was great with a goody bag at the end with a super dupa LS TS which i am going to flaunt to all and sundry! Will be back in 2009. Stamford Striders - acrundall, 2008-02-10

2nd event in the series of 4

Starting on a football field this brought back images of cross country running at school....those many many years ago, when bus fares were 2 pence, when you got a bag full of sweets in a 10p mix, and Rotherham United beat Chelsea 6-0 and 4-1 in the same season.... Anyway, braving the ice cold gales, in just a running vest and skimpy shorts, .....were runners from ever other club but ours.. Why do we do this to ourselves??? What's wrong with spending Sunday mornings in the local(s) to return home for a sunday roast containing turkey twizzlers and potato waffles? Why do we wade through swamps, jump over stiles like the last horse home at the grand national and still attempt to smile, though resembling the face of a pyschopath? I don't know...do you?, what I do know is that I bet you will be back for the 3rd race in the series.- Ryan _Cudworth, 2008-02-05

Starting and finishing at Skidby Mill this proved a demanding race made more so by a strong head wind over the first half of the course.

This is a really very well organised road race. The car park was about ¾ mile away from the start so best to arrive in good time or expect a short jog to the start line – guess which option we chose! There were only about 500 runners so no tripping over anyone at the start. The front runners soon got into their paces and off we went! The course was mostly open road but we passed through some lovely little villages along the way. There were lots of encouraging marshals cheering on – most appreciated and needed at times! Cos as they say in football it was a game of two halves…the first 5 miles were undulating but felt like an endless climb. I had little to complain about really…a beautiful winter’s morning boasting a tropical 11 degrees. There was however a strong wind blowing in from the right (Westerly I think but my geography’s not great!) which just seemed to pick up every time the route took on a climb! I thought I’d never make it until I crossed the 5 mile marker, turned the corner to find a downhill slope as far as the eye could see with a trailing wind and a water station - perfect!! No effort needed at this point as I free-wheeled down the hill – bliss! It was pretty much down hill all the way with some long straight stretches of road until the last ½ mile were we were met by a very steep climb to the finish. I had been warned by another runner so I was prepared, however my lungs and legs complained bitterly. I was very relieved to pass the finish line! I don’t plan to put it in my diary for next year but it certainly kick started my 2008 training! Well done to Phil, Karen, Louise, Paula and Christine who all seemed to cope much better with the conditions than I did. If I haven’t done a 10 mile race before does this mean I can claim a PB for this??!- Faith, 2008-01-29

Lovely scenic rural course which quite correctly was described as undulating with a sting in the tail at 9.5 miles!! A well marshalled event and very well supported. TRAC ladies excelled themselves with Faith, Louise, Christine, Paula and Karen G all putting in good times ... but what happened to the TRAC men?- philiprobertshaw, 2008-01-27

First of 4 races

Enjoyable race on a cold day. The cold was the last thing you worried about once the race had started however, there were hills (mountains) lots of mud and horse thingy along route, with a few dodgy steps to run up and down and stiles to navigate....great stuff!- Ryan_Cudworth, 2008-01-14

13.58 miles of off road running to see in the new year

The Ropsley Raid Well well well what a test for the legs! Despite being flat this was very tough course but one i would do again to burn off the mince pies! No seriously it was a good start to 2008 for me. Would recommend this post xmas run to all. Good feed at the end, cup o soup and cheese sarnies never tasted sooo good.- acrundall, 2008-02-03

Was this a good idea? 6th January a little to close to the climax of the festive season. This was a very informal run, no results were taken. The area of Grantham is surrounded by countryside which also (thankfully) is very flat. The course however was quite tough, it invloved stiles, streams, dirt tracks and worst of all ploughed fields. It is during running through the said fields that you gain an extra 3 stone to carry around with you on the bottom of your running shoes. The marshalling and course marking were excellent, although twice I was on the wrong side of a stream! At the end the goody bag was great, almost a packed lunch. Would definitely recommend this one though to run off not a few pounds gained over xmas but all of them, plus a little more...- Ryan_Cudworth, 2008-01-06

Great event organised by Maltby Running Club. The race starts at 11:00am and entries are on the day only. Entry fee is believed to be £3.

Individual Xmas Cake to all finishers www.clowne roadrunners.co.uk

My first Derbyshire run just before joining TRAC,in fact chatted to Christine and she sold it too me. Good 1/2 M hilly but a good test and well organised. Got a lovely lil xmas cake too! Def be back again.- acrundall, 2008-02-03

Not quite as I remembered! A very cold day, and a very undulating course. The organisation was fantastic!, the mile markers spot on, the course mostly very scenic, the prize...a xmas pud...instead of another T-shirt. A well done to TRAC for a good turn out and quite a few PB's!- Ryan_Cudworth, 2007-11-25

Liked the sound of this one, flat course, traffic free on the roads of a holiday park. This has the potential to be a really good 10k but the organisation on the day was terrible. The holiday park is a big place but there were no directions to parking, the start etc. the distance markers were incorrect all round the route and a marshall sent us the wrong way so the actual distance covered was about 5.2 miles. Bit of a shambles.

Held at Tickhill CC www.tickhillrunningclub.co.uk

Another great night where the club had chance to get together and reflect on the year gone. Proud to be a member of a great running club! Thanks to all who contributed and attended.- Ryan_Cudworth, 2007-11-21

Gently undulating course heading out of the town centre to National Trust parkland, with a long descent to finish www.worksopharriers.co.uk

This is traditionally a difficult half marathon, with a climb out of Worksop in the first mile. The weather didn't help today, and it one point it rained heavily for 10 mins or so. The route is just as remembered, it doesn't get easier unfortunately, didn't expect a PB but got one by 3 seconds. Well organised, will be back next year- Ryan_Cudworth, 2007-10-28

Marathon and Half Marathon, Amsterdam, Netherlands

96 hours on and having just managing to walk downstairs unaided I wonder why on earth we do it.The answer is of course the challenge and it was great to see the look on the faces of Nicky, Claire and Shaun as they completed their own particular event for the very first time. This was my second TRAC running weekend and as in the case of London it proved a hugely enjoyable few days with the exception of that crucial hour at the end of the run! Hopefully more events will be organised and whatever the distance it really is worth participating. We really do have a great club in Tickhill and the friendship shown by everyone was wonderful. That's the end of the promotion so what did I learn from the weekend; Firstly avoid eating meat the day before to try and avoid sudden downloading Secondly vaseline is an essentail part of a runners kit. Thirdly feign deafness or pretend you're welsh if a little old Dutch lady engages you in conversation (a bit like Shaun and Ryan did) Fourthly don't underestimate the power of lucky underpants. Did they or did they not prove lucky! - philiprobertshaw, 2007-10-25

Sport they say is the winning and not the taking part, but if you don’t take part how do you get to win any thing personally in life? On Sunday 21st October 15 people from a running club in Yorkshire set of on a journey of different distances around Amsterdam each aiming to achieve there own personal individual victories against time, distance and self belief. The weekend had begun successfully, with the flight on time, accommodation clean, a plug for the hairdryers registration of the race fluent, innuendo smut prolific and what happened on tour stayed on tour though Phil’s explanation of what the “wall” is to an elderly Dutch lady, Ryan’s jelly babies, Andy’s hula-hula skirt, Normans dancing escapade with the Ladies from Liverpool will remain a closely guarded secret from the author of the article!! The day began well with “Bob” getting the troops in order and as Ryan, Phil and Shaun setting off on the 26 miles around Amsterdam, the remaining posse prepared for the half. Both course’s was flat, support generous, windmills passed by, canals meandered road side and as the miles passed by belief and dogged determination set in as each member completed the course and distance whether it be for the thirteenth time or the first. By the end of the evening everyone had a story amongst the festivities of success, everyone had participated, completed and never again seemed to be a common theme especially after 26.2 miles jolly. Back home you can see how people won and completed there own little battles via the web, but more importantly what may not have seen possible became possible and proved that by taking part you had become a winner.- Shaun, 2007-10-23

If J K Rowling wishes to revive the Harry Potter series, TRAC have plenty of inspirational ideas. We have tales of invisible walls, magic underpants, life enchancing blue pills, strange rituals involving jelly babies, eyes in the back of ones proverbial, and many others that must remain in the chamber of secrets. After taking the train to the centre of Amsterdam, from platform 9 3/4's, we emerged onto the streets, in the middle of what appeared to be the 'Tour de France', this is where 'The Eyes in the back of ones proverbial' came into play. Once settled in the city, race day soon arrived, (you may have noticed, I have jumped ahead in time...best kept that way) So, race day.....One guy on the tram on the way to the start thought it appropriate to ask the question to the whole tram (in dutch) are you gay or running the marathon?...mmm...should have given more thought about wearing tracksters. That's where the race report ends for me, because whilst I enjoyed the views, the route, the personal battle to finish, I enjoyed more, the personal achievement of others in the camp, whom had completed the distances for the first time, and overall, the satisfaction that came from knowing what a great little club we have in Tickhill. www.amsterdammarathon.nl - Ryan_Cudworth, 2007-10-23

10k road race around the picturesque Clumber park

This has the potential to be a good event, but the organisers have to sort out the finish, for those runners coming in around the 50 min mark. To pay £10 entry fee and then have to queue to finish is poor to say the least!- Ryan_Cudworth, 2007-10-15

Multi terrain 17 mile course nr Grantham, Notts www.stop-intl.org.uk/admin/assetmanager/images/ponton%20plod.pdf

Fed up by being ripped off running around a deserted town centre rewarded by a goodie bag of flyers sponsorsed by a major PRIVATE health organisation, thinking that the PB is perhaps in the organisers back pocket. Well if you look below the surfaces linked to the smaller races you may actual find little gems like the Ponton Plod! Yes it was an hours drive away from Tickhill! PBs go out the window! Yes you have to juggle your map, gels, water bottle and running watch all at once. But once you come across a feed station with a friendly face, cookies, mars bars and top up of water or a tea! After running across country roads, styles, ploughed fields, golf courses past country pubs and houses. You suddenly realise why you have taken up running in the first place. Yes you have you the big full and half marathons the premier league of running, but the recent Ponton plod and Waltham on the Worlds trail run/walk have been great training runs for the Amsterdam marathon on Sunday. Why pay upwards of £25 to run 10km when you can pay £8 see fanatastic scenery, worry about getting lost, plus have a fanatstic bowl of soup, apple pie and custard, tea or coffee after the event and a certificate and a bloody good day!! Its the way forward and fits nicely in to your calender- Shaun, 2007-10-17