Bristol runners plan to make an impact in Exeter

With less than 48 hours to go before the South West's first big 10k of the year, it is looking possible for a Bristol winner in both the mens and ladies races. For the ladies, Robyn Golding and Debbie Marsden and are both in action, there are few runners in the area capable of living with Marsden when in top form, as she will look to dip under 36 minutes on a pancake flat course. For the men, Kairn Stone will start off as favourite, but don't be surprised to see Matt Ellis right up there. Ellis has not taken part in a competitive 10k in the past few months and his current PB is in no way indicative of the shape he is currently in. Expect him to be well up there!

A number of other Westbury runners will be running in the very first race of the year - the Hangover 10k, organized by Weston AC tomorrow!

Happy new year!

Ellis finishes 6th in the Boxing Day sprint

Westbury's Matt Ellis seemed to be recovered from an unpleasant bout of food poisoning as he secured 6th place in the Clevedon Boxing Day race. With a distance of around 3.7 miles due to the adverse weather conditions, Ellis clocked 19.18 in a race won by David Bishop of B&W AC in a time of 18.11, 6 seconds clear of fellow B&W runner Mike Johnson. Ben Noad of Highgate Harriers was 3rd in 18.36. In the ladies race the winner was Adershot Farnham and District's Emma Pallant in 20.37, with Laura Parker 2nd in 21.27, and Annabel Granger 3rd in 21.41. Westbury's Robyn Golding was 8th in 22.25.

Also in action for the Harriers were Felix McGrath 21.38, Adam Kula-Przezwanski 22.25, Sophie Voller 22.26, David George in 23.25, Terry Jewell-Davies 23.44, Alex Miller 24.04, Tamsin Chick 24.08, Clive Attwood 24.25, Sandra Price 28.07, Hayley Johnson 28.09, Sarah Tucker 31.10, Gill Anagnostakis 32.18, Dave Francis 32.18, Rob Hawkins 34.03, Helen Kula-Przezwanski 36.20, James Fox 36.48, Victoria Jones 37.02, William Hurley 37.33 and Sandra Bailey-Gard 39.01.

Well done all!!!

Christmas time!

Well everyone I am taking a few days well earned break! Don't forget that weather permitting there are some god events over the Christmas period including the Clevedon Boxing Day 4m, the Hangover 10k on New Year's Day and the 1st chance 10k on January 2nd. Also the rearranged Mike Down handicap will also take place on January 2nd.

I hope to be back with a report on the Clevedon Boxing Day race soon!

Marsden makes it to Brussels (eventually) and finishes 35th!

Debbie Marsden had a less than ideal preparation for the Iris Lotto CrossCup event in Brussels, as a combination of snow, ice, cancelled ferries and the French police meant a journey that was scheduled to take 9 hours, ended up taking 16!

Despite only getting 7 hours sleep, she still ran excellently to finish 35th on her international debut in a time of 24.19. Juliet Potter finished 19th and Frances Briscoe 25th as the Midlands team put in a strong showing on a hilly and snowy course in the Belgian capital Brussels.

Weekend races cancelled

The weather has taken its toll on the local racing action, with the Gloucester Christmas 5m cancelled and the Downs Fitness Christmas Challenge also off. Organizer Mike Down took the decision based on the current conditions and the forecasted drop in temperature, making the roads around the Clifton Downs treacherous. All is not lost, as both races are to be rescheduled in the new year. Down as decided that Sunday 2nd January will be the new date, although some athletes may well be taking part in the 1st Chance 10k down in Exeter!

Ellis finishes with a new PB, as Voller wins at Weston

The final Prom Run of 2010 saw Matt Ellis secure yet another PB, as he ran 25.47 on a windy evening in Weston to finish 2nd overall, behind Angus MacLean. GWRs Ben Morley was 3rd some 20 seconds back. In the ladies race Westbury's Sophie Voller won in a time of 31.01, with Tamsin Chick finishing an excellent 3rd in 33.12!

Also running Gregg Ward 29.04, Robin Phillips 30.52, Jullian Bailey-Gard Jr 30.57, Alex Miller 32.02, Terry Jewell-Davie 32.06, Graham Clark 32.14, David George 32.33, Phil Court 33.07, Dean Thornton 35.12, Jullian Bailey-Gard Snr 35.29, Sandra Price 37.48, Andrew Gibbons 38.36, Jane Goodwin 38.55, Jane Thornton 41.50, Eirian Thornton 42.55, Gill Anagonstakis 42.57, Roger Long 42.57, Kay Ridgwell 43.39 and Sandra Bailey-Gard 53.11.

Well done all!!!

Weekend running round up

It was the Avon / Somerset / Wiltshire combined XC championships this weekend, which took place at the venue more commonly associated with the Bath Gwent League. It seems that the cattle which posed a problem last time had been swiftly dealt with, enabling a packed programme of XC from U11 through to senior to take place.

In the Senior Men's race, Bristol and West's Steve Mitchell won the overall race and consequently the Avon XC crown. Our own John Collier finished 11th overall and 6th for Avon in 34:23. Also running for the Harriers were Jullian Bailey-Gard Jnr who finished 32nd, Andrew Maggs in 34th and Tony Jefferies who finished 51st.

In the senior women's race, Robyn Golding finished 6th overall and 4th counter for Avon, with Sophie Voller one place further back. Tamsin Chick finished 11th, Kelly Winstone 15th, Vicky Jones 18th, Melanie Trickett 21st, Kristi Robertson 28th, Laura Tanna 29th, Marilyn Palmer 37th, Jane Thornton 38th, Eithne Noonan 40th and Sandra Bailey-Gard 43rd.

In the junior races, there were notable performances from James Skelton who took the U15 crown for Westbury, Jake Bevan who scored bronze in the U13 boys, Emma Jones and Ellie Leather secured silver and bronze in the U13 girls and James Robinson and Jenna Kelly who scored gold in the U11 boys and girls respectively.

Great effort from everyone!

Great performances from the Harriers make Gwent medals a possibility

With the results in and collated, it's apparent that both the Senior Mens and Senior Ladies teams are contenders for medals, with the Senior Ladies potential gold medalists - if their top runners can be persuaded to turn out for the last two meetings! The ladies were led home by Debbie Marsden in 3rd place and with three others in the top 50, they lie second after two events, but over 100 points adrift of Bath University. That said with the likes of Emma D'Alton, Robyn Golding, Vicky Plume and Sophie Voller yet to make an appearance that sort of lead could quickly disintegrate!

The men meanwhile had 5 in the top 50 as they finished 3rd overall and currently lie in 5th place, some 80 points adrift of 3rd, but with two more performances like the last one, they must also be medal prospects!

Ladies Division 1


1. Bath University 1361
2. Westbury Harriers 1249
3. Les Croupiers 1186
4. Cardiff AAC 1095
5. TROTS 958

Mens Division 1


1. Wells & Yeovil 2463
2. Les Croupiers 2434
3. Cardiff AAC 2341
4. Neath 2311
5. Westbury Harriers 2257

The juniors were not to be outdone either as the U13 girls had 4 in the top 8 - Emma Jones, Ellie Leather, Alana Sherman and Emma Taylor. Novice girls had 3 in the top 10 - Jenna Kelley, Alex Hayhuest and Steph Cummins. In the novice boys Ellie's brother Joe put in a great performance to finish 5th! Well done everyone!

Marsden receives Midlands Call up

Westbury's Debbie Marsden has been called up to represent the Midlands in an inter-territorial match, as part of the next round of the Iris Lotto Cross Cup held in Brussels on December 19th. Marsden who has been in excellent form both on her preferred road surface, and more recently showing considerable improvement on the country, where she has secured two 3rd places in the Gwent League this winter. She will be joined by Charnwood ACs Jane Potter, Telford's Claire Martin and Coventry Godiva's Frances Briscoe as they will aim to bring home team glory, at one of Europe's most prestigious XC events.

Congratulations to Debbie!

Ellis produces a cracker!

Matt Ellis followed up his solid 8th place in yesterday's Gwent League, with an outstanding run to win this year's Wyvern Christmas Cracker. The every improving member of Westbury Harriers dominated the race, leading from start to finish in a time of 32.29 - nearly 2 minutes clear of Peter Monaghan of Torbay who finished in 34.28. In the ladies race, Rebekah Randell of Bristol and West won with a time of 36.19, Westbury's Robyn Golding was 2nd in a time of 37.41.

Other Harriers out in action were Matthew Lee-Charnock in 40.57, Tamsin Chick in 41.32, Jane Pemble 43.12, James Noott 47.28, Linda O'Shaugnessy 49.24, Hayley Johnson 49.29, Gill Jones in 51.29, Andrew White in 52.02, Richard Hughes in 56.26, Diane Heys in 59.37 and Kirsty Burns 1.19.42.

Well done all!!!

Harriers smash the Gwent League

A great effort from all the Harriers young and old today on a miserable, cold day at Blaise Castle! In the ladies race, Debbie Marsden finished a fine 3rd place behind A. Beynon-Thomas of Carmathen and Holly Rush of Team Bath. In the men's race the Harriers scored 5 in the top 50, with Matt Ellis in 8th, John Collier 20th, Simon Everington 25th, John Terry 41st and Anthony Glover 49th! With solid back up from Karl Dunn, Colin Johnson and Robin Phillips, this gave them one of their strongest placings for some time!

Full details to follow later!

Gwent League is go...

and that's not the only reason Westbury Harriers have to be optimistic. With their ladies' team spearheaded by Debbie Marsden, who finished 3rd in the opening race at Bridgeend and the men's team promising to be the strongest for some time, with Matt Ellis, John Collier, Sam Dalgleish and Simon Everington all running, it promises to be a great weekend's cross country actions at Blaise. Race 1 starts at 11.45, with the ladies at 12.35 and then men at 2pm.

Good luck everyone!

Bridge Inn Postponed

This Tuesday's Bridge Inn has been postponed due to the bad weather conditions currently enveloping Bristol. Race Organizer Chris Elson inspected the course on Sunday and found large sections covered with snow and ice. With further snow and freezing conditions forecast, Elson took the decision to call off the race now, but reminds runners that there is a reserve date - the final Tuesday in March - so the series will still include 5 races.

Bristol stars in action in the European XC trials

Whilst the weather appears to have put paid to most of the weekend's road running, a number of Bristol & West ACs finest were out in action at Sefton Park in Liverpool, for the McCain Challenge which incorporated the European XC Trials. In the ladies race, two self-coached athletes featured in the top 3 as Louise Damen won the 8km event in a time of 26.32, with Gemma Steel of Charnwood AC 3rd in 27.00. Separating them was Hallamshire's Hatti Dean in 26.46. There was plenty of local participation too, as Kate Goodhead finished 17th in 28.05, ahead of GB runner Jane Potter. Imogen Ainsworth finished 19th (5th in the U23s race) in 28.10, Rebekah Randell was 25th in 28.42, Katie Knowles was 27th in 28.49.

The men's race was won by Aldershot's Andy Vernon in a time of 28.45, with the top local athlete being Wells City Harrier's Frank Ticker finishing 5th in 28.59. Bristol & West's Rob Bugden was 47th in 30.47.

Gwent League comes to Blaise Castle

It's now just a week until the Gwent League comes to Blaise Castle, with the event taking place on Saturday December 4th. As well as all manner of Jnr categories, the senior races are looking exciting. In the Senior Ladies race as 12.35 - there should be a lot of local interest as Bristol & West's Ellie Wimshurst and Westbury's Debbie Marsden will look to keep their top 3 places from the first race back in Bridgeend. Meanwhile in the men's event, former Harrier Joe Dalgleish will be fighting it out at the top end and expect a surprise or two from Matt Ellis, making his debut in the League in what promises to be a top quality field. The men's race kicks off at 2pm.

See you there!

Ellis and Marsden romp to victories in Weston Prom

Westbury's Matt Ellis and Debbie Marsden were the respective mens and ladies winners in the November Prom Run, both securing PBs of 25.52 and 28.55 respectively. GWRs Ben Morley was 2nd just 6 seconds behind, with Andrew Chambers of B&W 3rd in 26.52.

Also in action for the Harriers were Simon Everington 5th in 27.46, Robin Phillips 30.04, Graham Clark 31.31, Alex Miler 31.43, Terry Jewell-Davies 31.45, Phil Court 32.16, David George 32.20, Clive Attwood 32.59, Keith Hill 33.04, Tamsin Chick 33.06, Zoe Dixon 33.23, Dave Chandler 33.27, Shona Mackie 34.23, Jullian Bailey-Gard Snr 34.54, Richard Hughes 35.40, Sandra Price 38.13, Andrew Gibbons 38.43, Clair Cusack 39.00, John Percival 40.14, Bridget Percival 40.18, Jane Thornton 41.44, Roger Long 41.53, Gill Anagonstakis 42.23, Kay Ridgwell 44.52, Caroline Scapens 48.04 and Sandra Bailey-Gard 51.29 - what a great turn out for the Harriers!

Sadly neither Ellis' nor Marsden's times will not be acknowledged as a PB on powerof10, due to the UKAs continuing battle to demolish their rivals in the affiliation stakes the Association of Running Clubs, only UKA affiliated races will be included as official results. This would appear to be contrary to their own policy for power of 10: "The general remit of the Power of 10 website is to record all performances achieved by UK athletes"


Let's hope that the UKA see sense soon and return to their 'inclusive' policy soon. If you are an athlete affected by this - do lobby the UKA/powerof10 - people power can work!

Cross Country Round Up

Well it's been a weekend for the off-road stuff for the Harriers! On Saturday John Terry and Debbie Marsden travelled north to take part in the Seagrave Wolds Challenge - a 16+ mile tour of the Leicestershire countryside, featuring hills and mud predominately. John Terry held his own against some of Leicestershire's best exponents on the country, including England Vet XC Champ Tim Hartley who finished the course in 1hr 45min, just 3 minutes ahead of John in 1hr 48. Debbie, using the event as an alternative weekend long run, finished in 2hr 10.

Onto Sunday and the annual Sodbury Slog organized by the Bitton Road Runners. Westbury's Matt Ellis finished 2nd in the event in a time of 57.01, just under a minute behind the winner, Clevedon's Julian Emery. The University's Steve Francis was 3rd in a time of 57.23. The ladies race was won by Bristol University's Imogen Ainsworth. Also in action for the Harriers were Ewan Kilgour 1.05.16, Shona Mackie 1.12.03, Paul Smith 1.25.27,  Graham Bazley 1.37.26, Aidan Naughton 1.37.43, Jane Goodwin 1.38.05, Sarah Tucker 1.40.16,  David Taylor 1.45.27, Michael Cullum 1.45.29, Kulian Pyrke 1.48.35, Rachel Grover 1.48.36, Andrew Russell 1.48.37, Jane Thornton 1.49.36 and Robert Hawkins 1.50.36.

Well done all!

Full results for the Seagrave Challenge are here and for the Sodbury Slog are here.

Bath Gwent League Cancelled

Just when you thought you'd heard it all in running, the organizers of the Bath Gwent League have had to cancel the event at short notice due to... COWS! Yes I kid (or should that be calf) you not. The farmer who has grazing rights over the land used for the XC has refused to move his stock of 50 cattle for the event on Sunday, leaving the organizers with no alternative but to cancel the event.

A great shame for all the runners who were looking forward to the second event of the season. As far as I am aware, Blaise Castle will suffer from no such issues and the event will be taking place on December 4th as scheduled!

Collier Lords it over rivals

John Collier continued his comeback, with victory in the Eastleigh Parkrun and followed it up less than 24 hours later with a fine 9th place in the Lordshill 10 mile.

Collier - who suffered a stress fracture during this year's London marathon - clocked a time of 17.21 for the 5k before blitzing round the Lordshill course in a time of 56.52, demonstrating that he is fast returning to the sort of form he showed in the buildup to London where he was clocking in the 32s for 10k and low 70s for the half marathon! With a welcome return home next weekend, the Harriers are looking forward to seeing him compete over the country in the Bath Gwent League!

Great effort John and keep up the good work!

Phillips and Dixon lead way for Harriers in the Victoria Park 4m

The first Saturday in November meant only one thing - 5 laps of Victoria Park, for the annual 4 mile thrash organized by Team Bath AC. Westbury Harriers were well represented in the event, which was won by Exeter Harriers Steve Goss in a time of 21.27. For the men, Robin Phillips was an excellent 8th in a time of 23.46, with Jullian Bailey-Gard Jnr 13th in a time of 24.24. Phil Court ran 25.58, Clive Attwood 26.36, Dean Thornton 28.27 and Richard Hughes 30.50.

The ladies race was won by B&Ws Amy Chalk in a time of 23.12. For the Harriers first home was Zoe Dixon in 26.35, followed by Tamsin Chick in 27.23 and Hayley Johnson in 31.03. Then we saw Sandra Price, Linda O'Shaugnessy and Clair Cussack in quick succession: 31.36, 32.00 and 32.10 respectively. Jane Thornton beat her nemesis Eirian Thornton 33.25 vs 34.30 with Sandra Bailey-Gard home in 42.00!

Well done everyone!

Filton Track Opens with 3k flourish

The new Bristol athletics track was formally opened on Tueday night, by Kenyan 3000m legend Kip Keino. The Kenyan Olympic team will use Bristol as a base for their final Olympic preparations in 2012, and will doubtless be making use of the new, improved facilities. To celebrate the equation, a men's and women's 3000m took place, with Debbie Marsden invited to run in the ladies race. She did the club proud, finishing 4th in a competitive event, won by Imogen Ainsworth in a wind affected 10.04. Debbie's time of 10.25, was just seconds behind 3rd place Hannah Alderson.

OMM Video

Here is a link to a YouTube video of Matt Ellis and John Terry's experience at last weekend's OMM.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5TVl2A7JqQ

Enjoy!

2500 visits!

To commemorate the 2500th visit to the blog, I thought I would delve into the statistics and see where all the visits were coming from. Whilst the vast majority have come from the UK - we have had 218 visits from the States, 65 from Australia, 35 from Brazil, 30 from Ireland, 24 from Germany, 19 from Vietnam, 18 from South Korea and 17 from Iraq! The Harriers have gone global!

If you follow the blog from overseas do leave a comment and let us know!

Collinson produces fine performance in Worksop

Roving Harrier Rich Collinson produced a fine performance of 77.14 for the Worksop Half Marathon this weekend. Collinson, now based in Coventry, has been in solid form for the past few months and had little difficulty negotiating an at times undulating course, particularly in the later stages. His time was good enough for 16th place out of 1750 finishers, in a race won by Steve Robinson of Bedford. The ladies race was won by Huncote Veteran Nikki Nealon in a time of 82.40.

Ellis and Terry excel at the OMM!

Making their competitive debut as a team at the 2010 Dartmoor edition of the OMM, Matt Ellis and John Terry surpassed expectations by finishing 4th at the end of Day 1 and 8th overall (out of nearly 190 teams) in the D class event! Despite both suffering from aching joints (ankle in the case of Ellis, and knee for Terry) they powered their way through Day 1, completing the 25.8km linear course, which incorporated 890m of climb in just 4 hours and 5 minutes!

This gave them a part in the chasing start, as they finished just 28 minutes behind the Day 1 leader. Despite an uncomfortable night in a small tent, that was battered by over an inch of rain and 50mph wind gusts, they were up bright and early ready for Day 2. Unfortunately the weather did not improve, with strong winds, heavy rain and hill fog causing problems, even for the more experienced navigators. In the end, dense fog caused them to summit the wrong tor and by the time they had corrected themselves, 20 minutes or more had elapsed, resulting in a time of 4.02 for the 20.4km and 1100m of climb. However it was still a great effort in their first appearance off of their more favoured (well in Matt's case!) road surface.

Other Harriers in action, included Gareth Howard - who teamed up with his dad Bob - to finish 100th in a combined time of 11 hours and 12 minutes, whilst Rick Butters and Brad Payne finished 103rd in a time of 11 hours and 16 minutes.

TACH also had some participants, with Rob Hicks excelling in the medium score class, finishing a brilliant 3rd place, including 1st overall on Sunday, and Jonathan Gledson finished 12th overall in the D class!

Great effort all!

Marsden breaks PB at latest Bridge Inn

Debbie Marsden was the latest Harrier lady in PB form, as she dipped under 17.30 for 5k for the first time. Debbie battled hard with ex-Harrier Hannah Alderson and clocked 17.27 for the undulating 5k course as she finished 3rd in the race, which was won by Imogen Ainsworth in 17.03.

Meanwhile Colin Johnson and Robin Phillips are probably still recovering from a Guiness induced hangover, as they both broke the 3 hour barrier for the first time at the Dublin Marathon. Colin clocking 2.57 and Robin 2.58!

Full results to follow later!

D'Alton smashes PB in Stroud Half

Westbury's Emma D'Alton produced a commanding performance at the Stroud Half on Sunday, knocking nearly two minutes off her PB as she ran 1.17.49 to finish 5th lady in the Stroud Half Marathon on Sunday.  Emma has produced some outstanding runs in the past 12 months and this latest PB is a reflection of the hard work she has put in.

The Harriers also had a number of other competitors in action, including Ewan Kilgour 1.23.50, Sophie Voller in 1.24.58, Phil Court 1.31.20, Dean Thornton 1.33.57, Andrew Parsonage 1.46.34, Laura Tanna 1.47.01, Jane Goodwin 1.48.37, David Whalan 1.49.31, Eirian Thornton 2.00.14 and Susan King 2.19.40.


Well done all!!!

Glover is a minor muggles winner!

Anthony Glover, running in the colours of his second claim club Hogweed, won the mimsy muggles last weekend clocking a time of 34.28 for the approximately 5 mile course! Not too sure if there was any further Harrier participation, in what has now become a regular part of the off-road campaign!!!

Cardiff course error is a shambles

The organizers of the Cardiff Half Marathon should hang their heads in shame. If you are organizing a race, one of the first things you do is to obtain an accurate measurement of the race distance over which your race is advertised. Then when it comes to race day, you make damn sure that you mark out the course in accordance with the official measurement. By not doing so, the organizers have ruined the day of a lot of competitors, most of whom were celebrating what they thought were big PBs, only to discover that they have been short-changed. So far the organizers are admitting that the course was 202 metres short, but have provided no explanation for why this happened. Combine this with poor marshalling, which meant that many competitors cut off another large section of the course, running straight through a park, rather than around the outside and you begin to understand why the winner of the race can set a near 3 minute PB! If I were you I would be demanding money back, and boycotting this race in future.

What a shame for all the Harriers who were out in force at the event. Sophie Voller ran 1.22.36, Declan McManus 1.32.03, Jayne Pemble 1.37.06, Richard Hughes 1.39.34, Andrew Parsonage 1.44.14, Judy Knights 1.45.29, Matt Jackson 1.52.00, Myriam Camboulives 1.53.12, David Taylor 2.03.43, Michael Cullum 2.04.17 Rachel Nowak 2.15.33 and Julian Pyrke 2.16.25. Well done to you all!

Terry pops up down under!

Less than 48 hours after setting foot in Australia, John Terry was in action at the Brisbane Road Runners 15k. Benefitting from jetlag leaving him wide awake at 4am, he was fully prepared for the 6am race start - ensuring that running conditions were favourable, a somewhat chilly 13c. This still didn't stop one Aussie bloke running the race in only a pair of ill fitting speedos!

The race itself was a 3 lap course of a route by the Brisbane river, fairly flat, although breezy conditions meant the 2nd half of each loop was a challenge. The race was won in a time of 51.15 by local champion (and Oceania games international) Brendan Whelan, whilst John finished 5th in a time of 54.56 and kept the Westbury flag flying high, by finishing 1st overseas - a new category invented especially by him!

Westbury men struggle at the Nationals

In a top class field, Westbury Harriers men found the going tough and finished 62nd in the National 6 stage relays. Given a great start by Matt Ellis who ran 19.02, they were still in 58th position, a sign of the quality of the field if ever there was one. Rich Collinson was next up with a 20.07, before dashing off to watch Villa play. Dan Studley, deputising for Will Massey, ran 21.13, before the welcome return of John Collier who ran 19.43. Gregg Ward ran 20.34 before the team were anchored home by Sam Dalgleish in 19.30. A great effort to make the finals and an improvement of over a minute on the qualifiers - well done guys!

Ladies obtain top 30 spot in the Nationals

The Westbury Harriers ladies team managed a top 30 position in the National 4 stage relays at Sutton Park yesterday. Missing several of their top runners, they still got off to a flyer thanks to Debbie Marsden, who whizzed round the course in a PB time of 15.08 to put them in 14th place after an ultra competitive stage 1. Debbie handed over to Zoe Dixon who ran a great time of 17.13, then Tamsin Chick with 17.15 and Kelly Winstone in 17.57. The team finished in 1.07.33 for 30th position.

Meanwhile the ladies B team of Debbie Cleary, Vicky Jones, Kim Ingleby and Lizzy Smith finished 56th in 1.13.50.

Well done all!

Weekend preview!

There's a lot of racing action going on this weekend. The main event is of course the National 6 stage / 4 stage relays, where Westbury have one of the strongest squads out for some time. Able to call upon Matt Ellis, Sam Dalgliesh, John Collier, Will Massey, Rich Collinson, Dan Studley, Simon Everington and Gregg Ward, a top 40 spot must be there for the taking. Also happening this weekend is the annual Hogweed muggles event, where historically Anthony Glover and Emma D'Alton have tended to do well! Then onto Sunday and it's the Cardiff 1/2 marathon, where Sophie Voller will be hoping to put months of hard training to the test, by beating the time of 1.23.13 she set at Bath earlier this year.

Good luck to all!

Terry leads home the Harriers in Gwent League Opener

John Terry ended up the surprising team-leader in the Gwent League opener at Bridgend. With Sam Dalgleish and Gregg Ward both in the line-up and running well, it looked like there would be a strong showing from the Harriers in the traditional curtain raiser to the season.

Unfortunately for Sam he turned his ankle on the second lap and had to pull out, whilst in a battle for a top 10 placing. Meanwhile both Gregg and John started steadily on lap 1 and found themselves in the mid 50s, before pushing through the field during the second lap. A nasty tumble, nearly finished the race for Gregg, but luckily he was able to continue, although his stride was clearly broken. John closed down a few more people on the final lap to finish 31st in 35.35, nearly 2 and a half minutes quicker than last year! Gregg meanwhile finished just a few places back, 37th in 36.00. Robin Phillips and Colin Johnson fought a great battle, with Robin just prevailing in a time of 37.50 for 70th place, with Colin one place back in 37.51. Completing the A team was Jullian Bailey-Gard Jnr in 38.51.

In the B team we had Tony Jeffries, fresh from his exploits in the Gloucester league the day before finishing in 179th, Mike Harris in 189th, Jullian Bailey Gard Snr in 206th and William Rhodes in 266th.

Full details to follow when results available!

Debbie takes 3rd place in the opening Gwent League

Debbie Marsden produced a superb run to finish 3rd in the opening Gwent League race at Bridgend on Sunday. Traditionally the best attended of all the Gwent's, Debbie started with a pack of 6 or 7 ladies and pushed through the field to lie second, behind eventual race winner Ellie Wimshurst of B&W, with the big hill to come. However, the third place lady pushed on strongly up the hill, and despite Debbie producing a great finish, she ended up in 3rd place - a great improvement on the 17th she secured last year!

There was a big contingent of Westbury ladies out, with full details to follow as the results become available.

D'Alton takes course record at Swindon Half

Westbury's Emma D'Alton ran a commanding race to win the Swindon Half, creating a new course record! Emma's time of around 80.04 was a cracking effort on an undulating course and took nearly 2 minutes off the old course record. Robyn Golding followed up her win at Burnham on Sea last week, with a solid second place in 86.54 in the race to cap a great day for Westbury's ladies! Meanwhile in the men's race, Matt Ellis appeared to show no ill effects from the Berlin Marathon, as he "took it easy" to finish 2nd in 73.46! Great efforts guys!

Full details available later!

Anthony has a lark in the mud

Westbury's Anthony Glover finished in a cracking 5th place at last Sunday's Marshfield Mudlark - despite attrocious weather conditions and an elongated course, he managed to run a time of 48.05. Meanwhile the Harriers Terry Jewell-Davies made a welcome return to action, finishing 16th in 52.58 - well done guys!

Oldbury 10m

Emma D'Alton claimed 2nd place in the women's race, running a new 10m pb time of 1.00.08, as she finished agonisingly close to breaking the hour mark for the first time. Winner of the ladies race was Kate Goodhead, but as she is Gloucestershire based, I am guessing Emma was declared county 10m champion - defending the title she won in the equivalent race last year. In the men's race, Hayley Johnson's husband Mike - "the machine" as he is known - powered to victory in a time close to 50 minutes, as he continues his exceptional run of recent form. Colin Johnson gained a county silver medal, and Jane Goodwin alsoe medalled in their respective age categories!

Full results to follow when available!

Golding storms to PB at Burnham on Sea 1/2

The Harrier's Robyn Golding powered to victory in the Burnham on sea half marathon, securing a new PB in 1.23.09, in spite of stormy conditions at the seaside resort this Sunday. Thankfully for the runners the course was pancake flat (the high-low difference is something like 20ft in this race!), so although the winds got up, it didn't slow them down too much! Great running Robyn!

Everington returns to Westbury colours

Within 24 hours of handing in his membership forms, Simon Everington was out in Westbury colours (well name only!) and taking part in the first of the winter series Bridge Inn. After a 3 year hiatus, he finished 13th in a time of 17.21, just behind Kane Lee in 17.16 and Anthony Glover 17.10. First over the line was once again Matt Ellis - only this time he was there from the start, helping out with the finish times! The race itself was won by Team Bath's Allister Sheffield, with B&Ws Phil Parry close behind in 2nd.

In the ladies race it was a clean sweep for the home club, with Rebekah Randell winning in 17.14, Imogen Ainsworth 2nd in 17.16 and Hannah Alderson 3rd in 17.29. For Westbury, Emma D'Alton was first home in 17.47, Debbie Marsden was next in 18.11 and Robyn Golding 3rd in 18.21.

Also out for the club were Jullian Bailey-Gard Jnr - who just failed to break the 18 minute barrier, Colin Johnson in 18.06, Tyrone James in 18.19, Alex Miller in 18.37, David George in 19.42, Tony Jeffries 19.47, Tamsin Chick 19.52, Dave Chandler 20.32, Shona Mackie 20.36, James Noott 21.53, Richard Hughes 22.36, Jane Goodwin 23.16, Roger Long 24.20, Linda O'Shaugnessy 24.52, Jane Thornton 25.54 and Sandra Bailey-Gard 32.16.

Well done to you all!!!

Collinson finishes 6th in Kenilworth

Rich Collinson showed no ill effects from anchoring the club's A team to the National finals, with a time of 1.17.06 to finish 6th at the Kenilworth 1/2 marathon. On an undulating course around quiet country lanes, Collinson started steady, but picked the pace up in the middle miles, just holding off the first lady. His time is a season's best for 2010, although slightly off his 1.16.10 that he set in Bath back in 2009.

Ellis breaks barrier in Berlin!

Westbury's Matt Ellis has just run a storming time in the Berlin Marathon - clocking 2.34.26   - to beat his PB by an astonishing 17 minutes! The in-form Westbury runner made the most of ideal marathon running conditions in Berlin to maintain a steady pace of 5.53/mile all the way round the picturesque city centre course, finishing 85th overall out of 40000 competitors!

With the UK rankings already updated, Matt finds himself 11th in the Southwest for the Marathon, and 102nd in the UK! Great effort Matt!

Men qualify for National 6 stage relay finals!

A weakened Harriers men's team still found enough in the tank to qualify for the National Road Relays 6 stage finals in 3 weeks time at Sutton Park, Birmingham. Missing Matt Ellis (Berlin Marathon), John Collier (Out of Africa), Dan Studley (some weak excuse about a Uni open day) and others, at one stage it looked touch and go as to whether they would make it, with the top 25 qualifying for the premier relay event of the season. Fortunately they had a couple of aces up their sleeve as Sam Dalgleish gave them a solid start with a 19.16 for 26th place, before Will Massey pushed them up 10 places with a 19.21 - a great run from the ever improving youngster! John Terry took over on leg 3 and managed 20.39, but lost 5 places, dropping the team back to 21st. Gregg Ward, despite suffering from a heavy cold, ran a solid 20.37 pushing them back into 20th, before Robin Phillips kept them in with a shout running 21.42, coming home in 24th. It was then left to Rich Collinson, to keep the team in 24th with a time of 20.15.

For the B team, Karl Dunn started the team with a solid 22.05, Tony Jeffries then ran 23.46, Mal White then ran 23.43. Colin Johnson then ran the best leg of the day a 21.54 - gaining 12 places - Tim Westmacot ran 25.43 and Bob Pringle anchored the team home in 24.07.

Great running from all the guys. With a couple of runners sure to come in for the Nationals, a top 50 spot for the Harriers has got to be on the cards!

Full results are here.

Girls land top 5 spot in the Midland Road Relays!

Westbury Harriers sent 3 ladies teams out to compete in the Midland Counties Road Relays at Sutton Park and they didn't disappoint with the A team finishing in a great 5th position - improving on the 8th place they secured last year. Led off by Debbie Marsden who ran a cracking 15.33 to finish in 5th place on the strong leg 1, Sophie Voller took over and kept them in contention, only dropping 2 places and running 16.46 in the process. Robyn Golding then took them back into 5th place with a time of 16.00, before Emma D'Alton anchored them home with the quickest time of the day - 15.30, to secure 5th place overall in a time of 1.03.49! For the B team, Vicky Jones (18.26), Tamsin Chick (17.52), Kelly Winstone (18.14) and Zoe Dixon (17.52) finished 27th place in 1.12.24. The C team finished incomplete, with Mel Trickett (18.48), Sianna Jones (18.30 and Hayley Johnson (19.55) completing the squad.

Great running ladies!

Full results are here.

Felix is Top Cat!

Congratulations to Westbury Harriers' Felix McGrath, who represented Team England in the "British and Irish Mountain Running Championships" over in Glendalough in Ireland last weekend. Felix didn't disappoint either, winning the 3.5 mile race, which included a 1000ft climb by 23 seconds! Felix also formed part of the winning Team England side! What a great effort Felix!

It's a long way up north!

It is indeed, but it did not deter one Harrier from taking part in yesterday's Great North Run on Tyneside! So well done to Anthony Blacker who completed the 13.1 mile course in 2:32:49.

Debbie dashes to victory in Cransley Hospice 10k

Debbie Marsden took a trip 'up north' to take part in a 10k event to raise money for Cransley Hospice, a specialist in providing respite care for patients with cancer. She didn't disappoint, not only raising £400 for the Hospice, but winning the race - described as undulating - in a time of 38.03. Great effort!

Ellis cruises to another win!

Matt Ellis continued his great run of form with a close to one minute victory in the opening Weston Prom. A virtuoso performance from start to finish, he eased down to win in a time of 26.19. GWRs Ben Morley was second in 27.14 and Exeter's Steve Goss was third in 27.19. The ladies race was won by GWRs Aileen Brown, but Westbury got in on the act with Sophie Voller 2nd and Tamsin Chick 3rd.

There were some other cracking Harriers performances, with Gregg Ward finishing 9th in 29.03, David Hobbs running 29.49, Jullian Bailey-Gard Jnr 30.42, Graham Clark 31.55, Alex Miller 32.18, Jullian Bailey-Gard Snr 35.11, Richard Hughes 37.37, Sandra Price 37.47, Andrew Gibbons 39.32, Clair Cusack 39.35, Linda O'Shaughnessy 39.59, Jane Goodwin 40.10, Jane Thornton 42.14, Robert Hawkins 42.57, Eirian Thornton 43.07, Gill Anagonstakis 44.29, Caroline Scapens 48.23 and Sandra Bailey-Gard 54.00.

Well done all!

Club champions announced

At last night's club supper the presentation was held for the Club Championships 2009-2010. A total of 16 or so events were included, with an athlete's best 8 results counting. In the ladies competition it was Debbie Marsden who emerged victorious, whilst for the men - keeping it a family affair - John Terry came out on top! Well done to all the runners who represented the club at these events. The top 10 in each category were:

Ladies:
1. Debbie Marsden
2. Laura Tanna
3. Jane Thornton
4. Eirian Thornton
5. Sandra Bailey-Gard
6. Jane Goodwin
7. Sandra Price
8. Emma D'Alton
9. Sophie Voller
10. Robyn Golding

Men:
1. John Terry
2. Gregg Ward
3. Jullian Bailey-Gard Jnr
4. Clive Attwood
5. Dean Thornton
6. Richard Hughes
7. Jullian Bailey-Gard Snr
8. Roger Long
9. Anthony Glover
10. Colin Johnson

Don't forget this season's championship kicks off at the Weston Prom, where Matt Ellis must start amongst the favourites to win the race and dip under 26 minutes, following his very impressive run of recent form!

Westbury Guys and Girls excel in the North Somerset Road Relays

The North Somerset Road Relays, incorporating the Avon championships were held today on an undulating and windy track out of the Hand Stadium in Clevedon. For a time it looked liked an upset might be on the cards, as Matt Ellis led the first leg runners home, clocking the 2nd fastest time of the day in 15.53, passing over a 10 second lead to Will Massey. Will didn't disappoint as he extended the lead to the best part of a minute, with a storming 2nd leg. Dan Studley then ran hard to hand over to Robin Phillips and John Terry eventually anchored the team home to 3rd place behind Bristol and West and Clevedon AC.

In the ladies race, another good battle between B&W and Westbury saw B&W victorious, as Rebekah Randell held off Robyn Golding in the final leg. Earlier on Shona Mackie, Debbie Marsden and Sophie Voller all ran competitive legs to keep Westbury in the hunt.

It was great to see so many Harriers out today, with 2 mens and 5 womens teams. A more detailed report with times will become available as the results do.

Line up for the club at the Clevedon Relays

This weekend are the Clevedon Road Relays - 4x5km for the ladies and 5x5km for the men. Westbury are looking to get as many teams out there as possible, so if you fancy running a leg for the club, please make your way to the venue for 10am on Sunday. Details of getting there are here.

Ellis and D'Alton top Harriers and top local runners in the Bristol half

Matt Ellis continued his meteoric rise, as he took the honour of 1st local runner finishing 30th in the Bristol 1/2 marathon in a time of 70.42. A massive 4 minute PB - Ellis who has improved dramatically over the past 9 months must surely be ready to compete against the very best runners next season. Meanwhile, Emma D'Alton performed equally well, also claiming the 1st local runner status, as she was 12th in the ladies race in a time of 79.38.

Westbury had a stunning turn out in the event and congratulations to all our performers:

30	10070	Matt Ellis	Male	01:10:42	Westbury Harriers
98	10069	Gregg Ward	Male	01:18:52	Westbury Harriers
110	10151	Emma D'alton	Female	01:19:38	Westbury Harriers
222	10268	Colin Johnson (45)	Male	01:24:10	Westbury Harriers
298	11119	Karl Dunn	Male	01:26:23	Westbury Harriers
299	10324	Ewan Kilgour (40)	Male	01:26:28	Westbury Harriers
328	10353	Steve Hawes	Male	01:26:57	Westbury Harriers
388	10554	Alex Miller	Male	01:27:52	Westbury Harriers
426	10280	Graham Clark	Male	01:28:37	Westbury Harriers
432	10292	Sophie Voller	Female	01:28:41	Westbury Harriers
584	10622	Keith Hill (50)	Male	01:31:04	Westbury Harriers
712	11642	Stephen Fowley	Male	01:32:35	Westbury Harriers
893	10727	Nick Marshall (50)	Male	01:34:24	Westbury Harriers
941	11600	Philip Court (40)	Male	01:34:55	Westbury Harriers
999	1013	Robert Pringle	Male	01:35:24	Westbury Harriers
1028	10840	Andrew Yuill (45)	Male	01:35:37	Westbury Harriers
1090	11445	Debbie Cleary	Female	01:35:59	Westbury Harriers
1096	10335	Clive Attwood (50)	Male	01:36:02	Westbury Harriers
1260	10436	Tim Synge (45)	Male	01:37:24	Westbury Harriers
1394	11506	Vicky Jones	Female	01:38:26	Westbury Harriers
1577	10717	Nick Taylor (40)	Male	01:39:34	Westbury Harriers
1752	11350	Katie Synge (J)	Female	01:40:43	Westbury Harriers
1762	10831	Nigel Muntz	Male	01:40:46	Westbury Harriers
1888	13836	Richard Bloss (45)	Male	01:41:34	Westbury Harriers
2304	13154	Lisa Feehily (35)	Female	01:43:53	Westbury Harriers
2336	27661	Zoe Dixon	Female	01:44:03	Westbury Harriers
2613	18965	Graham Bazley (45)	Male	01:45:34	Westbury Harriers
2953	13816	Elizabeth Smith	Female	01:47:20	Westbury Harriers
3026	20345	William Rhodes (50)	Male	01:47:40	Westbury Harriers
3051	13749	Judy Knights (45)	Female	01:47:48	Westbury Harriers
3161	16941	Roger Farrow	Male	01:48:20	Westbury Harriers
3170	13079	Michael Cooke	Male	01:48:23	Westbury Harriers
3603	15761	Andrew Parsonage	Male	01:50:23	Westbury Harriers
3934	27009	Aidan Maceneaney (45)	Male	01:51:50	Westbury Harriers
4218	19038	Ian Price (40)	Male	01:53:08	Westbury Harriers
4326	21331	Camboulives Myriam (40)	Female	01:53:35	Westbury Harriers
4366	12682	Richard Hughes (45)	Male	01:53:44	Westbury Harriers
4696	27035	Zoe Anne Wildgoose	Female	01:55:00	Westbury Harriers
4714	19059	Matt Jackson	Male	01:55:04	Westbury Harriers
5215	11441	Aidan Naughton (45)	Male	01:57:15	Westbury Harriers
5222	20784	Tarran Price	Male	01:57:17	Westbury Harriers
5309	17372	Helen Sawyer (40)	Female	01:57:43	Westbury Harriers
5382	16701	Michael Cullum (45)	Male	01:57:59	Westbury Harriers
5966	28789	Paul Mooney	Male	02:00:46	Westbury Harriers
6139	1242	Julian Pyrke (45)	Male	02:01:30	Westbury Harriers
6159	19020	David Nash (45)	Male	02:01:37	Westbury Harriers
6305	27092	Louise Stanley	Female	02:02:20	Westbury Harriers
7692	21526	David Taylor (45)	Male	02:10:29	Westbury Harriers
7865	16229	Brian Edgar (50)	Male	02:11:40	Westbury Harriers
8448	22255	Kay Ridgwell (50)	Female	02:15:46	Westbury Harriers
9516	26448	Rebecca Lippett	Female	02:26:02	Westbury Harriers
10290	25883	Jade Knowlden (J)	Female	02:39:04	Westbury Harriers

Terry and Marsden defend Alderney titles

The Westbury pair of John Terry and Debbie Marsden had a successful weekend in the channel island of Alderney. Both were defending title holders - John in the half marathon and Debbie in the 10k and neither disappointed as both runners successfully won their events. John set a new course record of 1.21.25 for the half and similarly Debbie a time of 38.30 for the 10k. Given the hot and hilly nature of the course, I am sure both were happy with their performances!

Ellis cruises to victory in the AXA 5.5

Although more a corporate race, than a club one, Westbury's Matt Ellis was in dominant form as he cruised to victory in the AXA 5.5m - a undulating loop out of the Axa Sports Ground. Ellis' time of 28.36, is one of the fastest recorded on the course; Matin Hula's 28.50 in 2005, being the only time in recent years to even come close! Ellis must be ready to challenge Ben Morley's dominance over 5 miles at Weston, starting in a couple of weeks time!

The Kula-Przezwanskis Battle in Sedgmoor

Adam and Helen Kula-Przezwanski were the club sole representatives at Langport Runners annual Battle of Sedgmoor 10k. The fast flat course is billed as ideal for PBs and there was certainly some speed at the top end, as former Bristol & West runner Kevin Heywood, now back with Bideford, winning in a time of 31.28 - nearly a minute clear! Meanwhile for the Harriers Adam ran 38.14 and Helen 64.01! Well done guys!

Howard foiled in UTMB attempt

The organizers of the 100m Ultra-Tour du Mont Blanc were forced to cancel the main event after just 3 hours, as torrential weather conditions resulted in mud slides and near zero visibility in the 8th running of the event. Westbury's Gareth Howard was one of the competitors affected by the conditions, but fortunately he is safe and well. This is the 2nd time Gareth has been unable to complete the event, as last year he was on paternity leave! 3rd time lucky perhaps?

D'Alton cleans up at final Towpath

The final race of the GWR Towpath series - a 5k version instead of 10k - saw victory for Emma D'Alton who came home in a time of 17.36, ahead of team mate Robyn Golding in 18.19, with the host club's Aileen Brown 3rd in 19.08. Also running for the Harriers we had Alex Miller in 18.33, Graham Clark in 18.46, Sophie Voller in 19.10 and Siana Jones in 21.10. After that came James Bardwell 22.54, Roger Long in 23.52, David Taylor 24.29, Michael Cullum 25.43 and Tracey Bain 29.02. Well done everyone!

The men's race was won by the host club's Ben Morley in a time of 15.36.

Ellis puts in 1st class performance to beat the train!

Westbury Harrier's Matt Ellis finished an outstanding 6th place in the 27th annual Race the Train event, held in Tywyn this past weekend. Ellis finished in 1.26.26, just six minutes adrift of race winner, British mountain runner Gareth Raven. Ellis' time was all the more impressive as he only owns one pair of trainers, and they are more at home in a 10k or a half marathon, rather than the 14 mile off road course he was faced with on Saturday. Unfortunately for Matt he narrowly missed out on two prizes, with individual prizes to the first five men only and then in the team event Westbury missed out by two points to Kenilworth runners. Matt in 6th, John Terry 17th in 1.32.22 and Gregg Ward 23rd in 1.33.34 completed the team. Chris Palmer was not far behind, 29th in 1.34.53 and with Ian Ruck, 1.45.32 also beating the train it was a great day for the Westbury men's team. Although we should pass on our commiserations to Phil Court, who narrowly missed beating the train, running 1.53.51. Our ladies were also well represented with Laura Tanna running 2.10.55, Jane Goodwin 2.17.25 and Jane Thornton 2.32.46.

In the morning 10k, Debbie Marsden came out on top, winning the ladies title and a cheque for £70 in a time of 46.02.

Full results should be available here.

Another 1-2-3 for Westbury!

The final race of the summer TACH series, saw a new course running out of the Bungalow Inn near Bristol Airport. The 9k course was more mildly undulating, rather than the outright hilly that is the usual TACH fare, but the outcome of the race was the same! Matt Ellis stormed to victory in a time of 32.50 - a time that will be difficult to beat in future I reckon! Runner up, nearly two minutes adrift, was Anthony Glover who ran 34.34, finishing 9 seconds ahead of John Terry in 34.43. Colin Johnson finished 5th and 1st V.40 in 36.30. Steve Adams finished 7th and Gareth Howard 17th. In the ladies race Sophie Voller finished 2nd and Jane Thornton and Jane Goodwin were also out there for the Harriers!

Full results should appear here.

Westbury retain Blaise Blazer cup

Westbury Harriers retained the Blaise Blazer Team Challenge Cup in convincing style, holding off GWR, Southville and Gloucester AC. Thanks to a strong run from Matt Ellis to finish 2nd, John Terry 5th and Chris Palmer 7th, combined with Robyn Golding winning the ladies race, the Harriers ended up comfortable winners.

Full results to follow!

Ellis wins Magor Marsh 10k

Westbury's Matt Ellis was the runaway winner of the 3rd Magor Marsh 10k, as he defied humid conditions to post a time of 34.08, nearly a minute ahead of 2nd place. Ellis ran a controlled race, working his way through the field, before taking the lead close to the 4k mark and never looked likely to relinquish it. John Terry finished 8th in a time of 36.18, with Colin Johnson 18th in 38.02. Roger Long, whose knees were grateful for the flat course, clocked 49.09.

Full results are available here.

Howard and Court prosper in inaugural Dartmoor Mountain Marathon

Westbury Harrier pair Gareth Howard and Phil Court put in an awesome effort in the inaugural Dartmoor Mountain Marathon, finishing 12th overall and 8th team, in the linear C class event. The pair were hampered, by Howard's decision to use a 5 year old pair of nu balance fell shoes, which promptly fell to pieces following their first encounter with the notorious Dartmoor tussock grass. Meanwhile fellow Harrier John Terry, partnered friend and former running buddy Simon Ward, and the pair finished 35th overall and 18th team. Ward suffered a nasty knee injury early on, which curtailed any prospects of a competitive finish for the pair.

Big mention to TACHs Rob Hicks, who finished part of the 2nd team in the Medium Score class event!

To get a feel for the event check out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYqjtGb3POE

Emma aims high as she looks to a record breaking 6th consecutive victory!

Emma D'Alton swept away the competition in Saturday's Gloucester 1/2 marathon - as she smashed her PB and broke the 80 minute barrier for the first time into the bargain! Her winning time of 79.57, secured her 7th place overall! Meanwhile in the mens race, Matt Ellis ran the race of his life, as he led the race until mile 11, when the old stager Mike Smith (of Bourton RR) came past and despite Matt's best efforts, sneaked to an eight second victory. Matt can take heart though from a new PB of 74.11.

Also in action for the Harriers were Declan McManus 1.39.01, Sandra Price 1.48.57, Andrew Gibbons 1.49.31, Matt Jackson 1.50.30, Graham Bazley 1.50.57, Julian Pyke 1.52.32, Adrian Breen 1.52.51, Clair Cusack 1.53.06, Andrew Russell 1.55,40, Jane Goddwin 1.55.57, David Taylor 2.02.35, Jane Thornton 2.02.53 and Emma Powell 2.04.23.

Well done all!

Harriers lose grip on Mob Match Trophy

The latest Avon Inter-Club Mob Match took place last Friday, on the Towpath course and a record turn-out saw Clevedon AC regain the title they last won 2 years ago. Westbury - the defending champions - turned out a strong team, but it was not enough to get near the winners, who fielded all 28 counters in the top 100.

For the Harriers, Chris Palmer had a great run, finishing 13th in a time of 35.17, holding off Anthony Glover, one place back in 35.32. Gregg Ward ran 36.08, with David Hobbs 31st in 37.09. Colin Johnson ran 37.51, Ewan Kilgour 38.11, Bob Pringle 39.02, Ray Hooper 39.09, Alex Miller 39.38 and Jane Khan 39.56. Tony Jeffries ran 40.15, Ian Ruck 40.29, Tamsin Chick 41.47, Geraint Torrington 41.52, Mike Harris 43.40, Jullian Bailey-Gard Snr 43.58, Sian Jones 45.15 and Rod Naughalty 45.41. Next home we had Richard Hughes in 46.19, Zoe Wildgoose 48.08, Roger Long 48.54 and Hayley Johnson in 49.04. Anneka Bull ran 50.08, John Percival 51.18, Kay Ridgwell 55.18, Jill Anagnostakis 55.42, Paul Mooney 56.50 and Eithne Noonan 56.57.

Great running everyone!

Good luck to the Mobsters and to the Mountain Marathoners

Just a word of good luck to all the Harriers who are running in the Mob Match this Friday - 7.30pm start at Greville Smyth Park. With some Harriers taking on the all new Dartmoor Mountain Marathon this weekend and others in action at the Gloucester Half on Saturday evening, it promises to be a great weekend of action!

Westbury dominate the Sri Chinmoy Series

The final event of this Summer's Sri Chinmoy series, was a 3x1m relay and there were lots of Westbury participants in action. Leading home the race in a time of 15.17 was the mens team of Gregg Ward (5.09), John Terry (5.11) and Matt Ellis (4.57) who were comfortably clear of the mixed team of Ray Hooper, Robyn Golding and Shane Goodman in 17.04. "Last minute Mix" saw Craig Tolfree, Evita Gonzales and Mike Harris in action and they finished 5th in 19.35. Then two more mixed team for the Harriers in 6th and 7th: Jane Thornton, Lynne Rogers and Chris Palmer came home in 19.37 and Emma Powell, Laura Tanna and Phil Court came home in 20.08!

A great effort from everyone!

D'Alton takes winning streak to 4!

Following victories in the Bridge Inn 5k, the Blaise Blazer and the Towpath 10k, Emma D'Alton found herself with a fourth consecutive win at the Frampton 10k. Renowned for being a fast course, Emma raced around to finish in 36.36 (just a second off her PB). She was given a run for her money by Westbury team mate Debbie Marsden who finished in 37.00, with Robyn Golding competing a hattrick for the laides with 3rd place in a time of 37.31. Also running for the Harriers was James Fox who completed the course in 1.00.31!

Well done everyone!

D'Alton claims another Towpath victory

Emma D'Alton made it three out of three in the latest instalment of the GWR towpath series. Defying another hot and humid evening, Emma finished 8th overall in a time of 37.22 , nearly 30s clear of Robyn Golding, who finished 2nd. The host club's Aileen Brown took 3rd place overall.

For the men Gregg Ward was fastest, clocking 36.04 for 5th place, with Graham Clark 21st in 38.54, Alex Miller 23rd in 39.14 and Bob Pringle 25th in 39.48. Andrew Yuill clocked 43.10, Richard Hughes 46.40, James Bardwell 47.15, Roger Long 48.49, Andrew Gibbons 49.14 and David Taylor 53.53.

For the ladies Lisa Fehilly clocked 47.49, Kay Ridgwell 58.18 and Tracey Bain 1.04.11.

Well done all!