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Squirrels Triumph at Berlin Marathon

24/9/2023

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Three Squirrels headed for Berlin on Sunday to take part in the world famous fast and flat Berlin Marathon: Mike Roberts, Tash Pitman and Nicola Withington.  Tash described the crowd as deafening in places with bands and drummers around every corner, geeing up the crowd to roar the runners around the course. Mike Roberts was in amazing form and ran a personal best time of 2:31:26, setting a new senior men’s category club record. Tash Pitman also on amazing form, was delighted to finish in 3:11:23 and set the second club record of the day in the women’s vet 45 category.  Nicola Withington had a superb run, managing a personal best time, beating her previous marathon time by over an hour, and finishing in 4:36:44.   Nicola said she enjoyed every minute of the run and unusually managed to drink a cup of tea en route!

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​Closer to home…..
Thirteen lucky Squirrels took part in the Hitchin Town Centre 5k on Sunday, with age group category wins being awarded to Linda Aird, Oliver Babik and Tracy Pitcairn.

The friendly and well-supported race consisted of two laps around undulating Hitchin town centre, with some challenging tight turns and the occasional narrow pavement that runners have to negotiate with caution – along with a few cobbled streets to keep things interesting!  Unlike Berlin, this is neither a fast nor particularly flat course, but nevertheless good finishing times are still possible, as the Squirrels showed. Taking part were:
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​Linda Aird 28:09 (first FV60)
Oliver Babik 20:17 (first M20)
Farzana Bhatti 34:49
James Dalton 20:12
Geoff Davis 29:36
Kat Hinitt 26:53
​(a new post-baby PB!)
Jo Kenlin 41:54
Sheila Leavy 40:41
Steve McKeown 19:38
Luna Miao 27:41
Tracy Pitcairn 22:15 (first FV40)
Nathaniel Rosa 20:06
Ian Sutcliffe 30:54
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Meanwhile Kris Whitmore decided to run the Bedford Autodrome Marathon on Sunday morning despite a haphazard training block; saying he entered it purely as a mechanism to get a ‘Good for Age’ place for the London Marathon 2025.  Kris needed 3:10 to apply but realistically 3:07 and said any semblance of a plan went straight out of the window as the strong winds made him choose to sit in a pack of better runners for protection and so it became an exercise in hanging on at the end but hang on he did to claim an excellent time of 3:05:20.
Mel Flyn ran the Leighton 10 Miler following on from her recent success at the Hatfield 5K Series.  Mel ran this as part of her training for the Great Eastern Half in two weeks’ time; describing the course as very windy and hilly.
​Further afield in Australia Lindsey and Viv Lucas continue their tour Down Under and Park Run adventures.  This time their Park Run in Fremantle Western Australia, consisted of running to an old power station and back, a quick run to the beach and back and then a longer run of 1k along the sandy beach to the finish, which Lindsey described as being really hard work.  Fortunately, Park Runs in Australia start at 8am which meant they had time for a 1.5k warm up, the ParkRun, back in time to the campsite to pack up their campervan and be on their way, all by 10am!  
The Park Run round up for Saturday 23 September is as follows:
Barclay: Tim Banting (27:19)

Delamere: Matt Roberts (23:03)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Dave Braybrook (22:49), Jane Clarke (24:33), Sarah Mitcherson (24:49), Rob Milburn (26:24)

Houghton Hall: Kris Whitmore (19:20)

Letchworth: Katie Harbon (19:55), James Dalton (21:05), Chloe Lucas (23:28), Steve Brenton (25:04), Daniel Mallett (25:38), Jo Harbon (29:40), Alice Noakes (29:46), Aimee Flack (33:47), Philip Flack (37:05)
Rickmansworth: Jon Hunt (22:06), Richard Harbon (22:18)

Shrewsbury: Nick Walker (33:20)

South Beach Recreation Reserve: Lindsey Lucas (40:32)

Townmoor: Jo Sopala (33:35)

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Teignmouth Promenade: Elwyn Howell (22:09)
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Stevenage: Matthew Sayers (18:57), Michael Over (19:53), Chris Stokes (20:38), Paula Holm (22:34), Mike Phillips (23:10), Andrew Coates (25:09), Ian Datlen (25:40), Natalie Phillips (29:17), Andreea Weisl-shaw (29:28), Carina Quayle (38:53)

Stretford: Tom Barclay (17:01), Emma Sandham (25:56)

Wimpole Estate: Vincent Wright (20:26)

Yarborough Leisure Centre: Anna Greetham (23:32), Brian Judkins (34:29)

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Superb end to series for Squirrels at Hatfield 5k

17/9/2023

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North Herts Road Runners saw a great turn out of thirty five runners last Wednesday at the third and final race in the Hatfield 5k 2023 edition.  The race series championship requires consistency as athletes need to run in all three races to enter the final rankings, with their best two times contributing to the final series position.  There were quite a few North Herts Road Runners with eyes on some series silverware and they weren't disappointed, winning 5 individual and two series medals.  Rhia Botha won the individual female veteran 35 category, with teammate Jane Clarke scooping 3rd and both delighted with personal best times in the final race.  Rachel Arnott was awarded third female veteran 45 and Caroline Thrussell second in the veteran 55 category.  Pete Sibbett was thrilled with third in the male veteran 60 category, with a promising return to form after a string of injuries.  The teams also performed strongly in the series with our Ladies Team of Rhia Botha, Sophie Thrussell and Rachel Arnott finishing second overall and our Men's team of Tom Doble, Kris Whitmore, Ian Datlen and Mike Over claiming third on the podium.

Peak District Canicross: Squirrels and Their Furry Companions Conquer the Trails at the Outside Hope Round
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Anna Gibson and Jill Tooley-Boys, together with their canine companions Flora and Lulu and a number of their canicross friends, ventured into the stunning Peak District for a unique adventure. They participated in the beautiful yet demanding Outside Hope Round, a 20-mile circular route set up by the famous Outside shop in Hathersage. Although the entry was free, runners received a Montane Buff and a chance to have a photo displayed on the shop’s wall of honour. Anna praised the fantastic route, encouraging everyone to give it a try. 
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Stevenage 10k Challenge: Conquering Hills and Rekindling Determination
Four squirrels took part in the Stevenage 10k race, organised by the Stevenage Striders. Despite the undulating course, the event impressed with its enthusiastic and friendly marshals, as well as the generous rewards of medals, T-shirts, goody bags and delicious cake at the end. James Dalton was pleased with his personal victory of avoiding wrong turns during the race, which he considered a feat in itself. Despite finding the St Martins Way climb challenge, he was the first squirrel to cross the finish line in an impressive 41:24. Dervla Downing was not far behind, finishing in 50:11. Inspired by their enjoyable experience the previous year, Georgia and Richard Barker also signed up to run, although Georgia faced an unexpected hurdle when her legs, tired from recent body pump and body combat classes, found the race’s uphill sections an even bigger challenge. However, they pushed on and reached the finish together, in a respectable 1:02:58. All promised to return in 2024.
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A little side note about squirrel camaraderie and mutual support, Andreea Weisl-Shaw had also signed up to do the race but, having been asked to step in as church organist for a local church, was unable to attend on the day. However, she got permission from the race organisers to do the race virtually, and was delighted that her fellow squirrels stepped in to help: Georgia and Richard kindly agreed to collect her medal and T-shirt at the race, while Jenna Manggos offered to run the 10k with her. Jenna and Andreea completed the 10k in a more leisurely 1:06:29 around Letchworth, but they were happy with that given that this was a chatty run and Andreea’s first 10k in months, and the best part? Georgia and Richard brought back not just a medal and T-shirt, but lots more goodies including a backpack given by Decathlon, thus proving that where there’s a will, there’s a way, and that squirrels stick together in and outside of races.

Spoiler alert for next week's report - Round Norfolk Relay
​A little Squirrel reported that the Round Norfolk Relay was a stupendous success.   The relay comprised 17 (unequal!) legs around the Norfolk county boundary, covering a total of 198 miles.  The team are understandably catching up on some sleep and we look forward to sharing their full report in next week's news!  Well done to Katie the organiser and all the support crew, along with the runners and thier cycle/car support crew!  Incredible organisational feat!  
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Parkrun roundup
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International Adventure: Making History at Wilson Inlet Heritage Trail Parkrun, Australia
Sometimes, the running stars align, and they did just that for Lindsay and Viv Lucas during their trip to Australia. Having hoped to squeeze in some runs and explore the world of Parkruns “down under”, they were initially disappointed in the Northern Territory, where the heat and wildlife. However, a move to Perth offered more hospitable running conditions and their serendipitous moment arrived when they camped in Denmark, Western Australia, and discovered the Wilson Inlet Heritage Trail Parkrun close by. The thrilling part? This Parkrun had only started two weeks earlier, on the very day Lindsay and Viv embarked on their Australian adventure. It got even better as the Parkrun began right at the entrance to their campsite. Imagine the excitement when the Squirrels donned their NHRR t-shirts, becoming the first international visitors at this brand-new Parkrun. The trail led them through the picturesque Australian Bush, and thankfully, no snakes were spotted. With just over 60 runners in the field, Lindsay achieved her first-ever 1st place in her age category, making this international adventure truly memorable.

Castle Park: Matt Roberts (26:47), Anna Greetham (26:48)

Great Denham: Dave Braybrook (22:03)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Daniel Mallett (23:57), Sarah Mitcherson (24:28), Angeliki Shearstone (27:43), Rob Milburn (28:11), Ian Sutcliffe (32:12)

Jersey: James Keogh (20:09), Clare Hooley (41:13)

Letchworth: James Dalton (20:30), Laura Fairbanks (24:56), Paula Holm (25:01)

​Monsal Trail: Michael Over (19:41), Georgina Quayle (26:21), Julie Toland (26:33), Carina Quayle (36:21)

Panshanger: Frances Stanton (26:21)

South Oxhey: Kris Whitmore (19:17)

Stevenage: Mike Phillips (20:33), Ian Harvey (21:01), Natalie Phillips (26:01), Andreea Weisl-shaw (29:44)

Wilson Inlet Heritage Trail: Viv Lucas (26:16), Lindsey Lucas (37:37)

Wimpole Estate: Chris Stokes (20:41), Jon Hunt (22:33), Richard Harbon (22:49)
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Wollaton Hall: Paul Jackson (18:26)
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Squirrels smash second series race

10/9/2023

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The second Hatfield 5k race hosted the Herts Veteran’s County Championships on Wednesday evening and drew a competitive field despite the extremely hot and humid conditions. North Herts Road Runners had 33 runners racing with the Men's Vets Team of Stewart Overton, Shahab Ahmad, Matthew Sayers and Kris Whitmore delighted to be crowned county champions. In the individual county competition Stewart was second in the men's veteran 40 race in 16:44, with Astrid McKeown racing strongly to finish 3rd in the women's vet 45 event.
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Individual results:
Stewart Overton 16:44, Thomas Barclay 16:56, Shahab Ahmad 16:58, Matthew Sayers 16:58, Kris Whitmore 18:22, John Auld 18:50, Ian Datlen 18:54, Michael Over 19:00, Darren Matussa 19:14, Tom Doble 19:16, Rhia Botha 19:38, Ian Harvey 19:50, Sophie Thrussell 19:53, David Edwards 19:58, Astrid Mckeown 20:15, Peter Sibbett 20:17, Rachel Arnott 20:45, Jane Clarke 21:06, Lee Varley 21:24, Richard Harbon 21:41, Andrew Wallis 21:47, Steve Tracey 22:11, Caroline Thrussell 22:33, Joanne Hoare 23:55, Mel Flynn 25:01, Helen Cairns 25:01, Lucy O'Connor 25:15, Ellie Frid 25:27, Anna Gibson 25:51, Lindsay Cook 30:12, Karen Dodsworth 30:14, Joanne Sopala 32:16, Sheila Leavy 39:38
​Parkrun Roundup
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Clacton Seafront: John Russell (26:23)

Goole: Tom Barclay (17:42)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Ian Harvey (22:38), Barbara Sayers (25:42), Andrew Coates (25:43), Anna Greetham (26:39), Matt Roberts (26:40), Tim Banting (26:53), Natalie Phillips (27:01), Mike Phillips (27:02), Amanda Greig (33:12), Julie Taylor (34:59), Jane Robson (34:59)

Irchester Country: Scott Reed (34:11)

Letchworth: Katie Harbon (27:53), Jo Harbon (31:05)

​Milton Country: Brian Judkins (39:43)

Panshanger: Kris Whitmore (19:32)

Risingsun: Carina Quayle (33:56)




​Stevenage:
 Nathaniel Rosa (19:34), Andreea Weisl-shaw (31:16)
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​Westmill: Chris Stokes (21:19), Jon Hunt (23:40), Richard Harbon (23:46)
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Squirrels clean up at County Championships

3/9/2023

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Wow! What a weekend North Herts Road Runners have had. There were seven events that North Herts Road Runners took part in to claim PB’s, club records, team prizes, long distances and lots of fun in the process.
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Hatfield 5k - Race 1
Earlier in the week, NHRR headed over to Hatfield to compete in the 1st of three, flat, fast 2 and a half lap 5k’s. It was also the senior county championships meaning the field was fast and the competition was tough. However, NHRR smashed it, winning both the men’s and women’s races, 1st men’s team and 2nd women’s team. Katie Harbon came in as first woman with a PB and club record of 17:07 and was joined by Rhia Botha and Sophie Thrussell to bring home the team silver medal. Rhia finished 2nd in the V35 category, smashing 20 minutes in a great time of 19:42 and Sophie came in as 7th senior female overall in a time of 20:03. In the men’s race Ben Hadman finished 1st in a huge time of 15:30, followed closely by Tom Webb, finishing just 2 seconds later in a time of 15:32. Matt Sayers dipped just under the 17-minute barrier in a phenomenal time of 16:56 and Shahab Amad closed the victorious men’s team in a time of 17:18.
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Overall, 39 squirrels competed, and all had a great run with incredible times. Elliot Jackson beat 18 minutes in a time of 17:53, followed by Kris Whitmore in 18:03. Micheal Over managed to scrape just under 19 minutes with a PB of 18:59 and Ian Harvey in 19:32. David Edwards and James Walsh also beat the 20 minutes barrier with times of 19:41 and 19:44 respectively. Mike Phillips crossed the line in just over 20 minutes with a time of 20:04, followed by Peter Sibbett in 20:21. Rached Arnott finished close behind in 20:23 finishing 4th in the FV45 category and Jane Clarke in 21:05 and 6th in the FV35 category. Steve Tracey followed in 21:08 as did Andrew Wallis in 21:29, Richard Harbon 21:42, Richard Weber 22:36, Caroline Thrussell 22:48, Andrew Coates, 23:32, Joanne Hoare 23:36, Ian Datlen 23:41, Lucy O’Connor 24:15, Helen Cairns 24:10, Chris Cope 24:27, Ellie Frid 24:51, Anna Gibson 24:56, Susan Foot 26:55, Hannah Keeble 27:01, Linda Aird 27:13, Karen Dodsworth 27:41, Lindsay Cook 28:57, Ian Sutcliffe 29:28, Miranda Morgan 29:28 and Sheila Leavy 39:00.

Prague - Czech Republic
Hannah Ridley was selected to Represent Great Britain in the European Police Athletics Championships in Prague, Czech Republic in the 800m event.   She raced to a podium place, winning the Bronze medal in a stunning time of 2:23.3  She described it as "The experience of a lifetime and I was delighted to have fulfilled a childhood dream.  To come away with a bronze medal as well is absolutely mind blowing!"
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Bedford
There were plenty of events to choose from at the annual Bedford Running Festival over the hot weekend. The festival's first race saw runners toe the line at 3pm on Saturday and four North Herts Road Runners raced, with Elwyn Howell first squirrel home in a new personal best time of 20:55, his first time under 21 minutes. He was followed by Stephen Doran in 29:08 and then by Nicola and Neil Withington with Nicola pacing her husband to a personal best time of 30:53. 

The next race was the Twilight 10k at 5:30pm and again four squirrels took part. Caroline Thrussell finished first in her age category in a time of 47:47. Dave Braybrook clocked 47:27, Steve Brenton 49:02 and Vanessa Rolfe 1:12:51.

Very warm conditions presided over the Sunday races with both the half marathon and 20 mile races starting horn sounding at 9:30. In the half, Ben Ryan was first squirrel home despite a week of jet lag in 1:46:33, Richard Weber 1:53:16, Anna Gibson 2:01:35, Lucy O'Connor second in her age group in 2:02:21 and James Humphreys 2:02:16.

The twenty mile option was undertaken by Rachel Arnott, Tash Pitman, Elwyn Howell and Nicola Withington who were using it as training runs for Autumn marathons. Rachel was set to be first squirrel home, but was misdirected so ran an extra 1k, but finished in an impressive 2:36:02. Tash Pitman was happy to stick to her pace plan and finished in 2:31:57, while Elwyn Howell ran an impressive 2:54:57, just 17 hours after his 5k best time. Nicola Withington finished with a superb sprint to finish in 3:23:27, cheered on by her coach and family.
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Huge thanks to all that came out to cheer over the weekend, including Karen, Cara, Brian Judkins, Linda Howell and Neil Withington! ​
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Baldock Rat Run
Locally, 9 squirrels took part in the annual rat run in Baldock on Sunday. It was a great morning with the race starting in the centre of Baldock, heading out into the local countryside and taking in some of the Greenway under gloriously sunny skies.

​NHRR supplied both female and male winners in Rhia Botha in 18:20 and David Edwards in 17:48. James Dalton came in 3rd in 18:03, followed by John Auld 18:25, Astrid Mckeown 19:14, Alex Robinson 19:57, Jillian Tooley-Boys 22:18, Stephen Doran 29:08 and Kat Hinitt 31:56. 
Dunstable
Sue Foot headed to Dunstable for the Dunstable Downs marathon challenge. Sue described it as an undulating trail marathon with some steep hills over the Down and plenty of recently ploughed fields to plod through. Sue was pleased to finish the scenic route in 5hrs 44 mins. 
Broughton Burn 10km
On what sounds like a similarly hard course, Ian took on the truly multi terrain ‘Broughton Burn 10km’ in North Lincolnshire. The course sounded like it had a bit of everything, with tarmac, a loose cinder river path, farm tracks, two humped river bridges, 1 steep set of steps, a grass field boundary and all topped off with an evil uphill finish. A right challenge! Ian finished in a great time of 40:41. 
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Surrey
Further afield, Matt Roberts and Anna Greetham ran the Tribe X Maverick Run Free in Surrey. A hilly trail run with around 605m of elevation over the 22.85km course through an Area of Outstanding Beauty saw around 400 runners complete the long and short courses. They completed the long course in 2 hours 38 mins coming 102nd and 103rd out of 166 runners. Post-race pizza and beer made for an ideal end to a great day. Anna said it was an amazing day and highly recommends the event! 
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Duck and Dash
The annual ‘Duck and Dash’ also took place over the weekend. This race consists of a 400m swim followed by a tough 5k run around Letchworth Common.  Sophie Thrussell took 3rd in the female open category, putting herself in the running for an England call up. 

It was a family affair for Shahab Ahmad who persuaded his exceptionally reluctant wife Deborah to take part as a team in the relay event. They came away with the win following a fab performance by them both. Shahab also cheered on his son in his first ever multi-sport event, the Tri-Start for 8-year-olds.

​Anderw Robson competed in the solo event and following a 4-year break from multi-sport was delighted to cross the finish line. The event saw another husband-and-wife duo take part in the solo events, with Richard finishing 4th in his age category and Jo finishing 7th in her category. Katie Harbon and Barbar McNally also took part in the team relay event and finished in 2nd place, just behind Shahab and Deborah.  

Parkrun Round-up:
Ancholme Valley Way: Brian Judkins (34:27)

Bedford: Chris Stokes (20:46), Jon Hunt (22:19), Elwyn Howell (35:37)

Conwy: Dawn Power (26:32)

Letchworth: Steve Brenton (26:40), Jegan Simon (26:41), Daniel Mallett (29:07)
Stevenage: Matthew Ronayne (18:02), Adam Stout (24:41), Andrew Cooper (28:28)

Wimpole Estate: Vincent Wright (20:07)

Wotton: Kris Whitmore (19:57)
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Parkruns the ideal preparation as Squirrels get ready for autumn racing

27/8/2023

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The Bank Holiday weekend saw many North Herts Road Runners members focussing on training, rather than racing, as they prepare for the Hatfield 5k race series that marks the start of the autumn season.
 
Plenty of them included a Parkrun in their weekend programme, with 33 turning out for the popular 5k events across at home and abroad. The largest contingent tackled the hilly course at Letchworth Garden City, where Vince Wright led the squirrels home in 18:55 and Katie Harbon was the first female finisher in 20:10.
 
Other squirrels took their running shoes on their travels, with Tom Barclay second finisher at Jersey Parkrun in 18:03 and George Wright completing the Zuiderpark course in The Hague in 24:17.
Parkrun round-up Saturday 26 August
 
Aylesbury: Kris Whitmore (18:53)

Brockwell: James Laing (26:44)

Great Denham: Andrew Coates (25:15)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Dave Braybrook (23:18), John Russell (24:34), Daniel Mallett (26:58), Aimee Flack (32:16)
 
Hogmoor Inclosure: Brian Judkins (37:48)

Jersey: Tom Barclay (18:03)

Leavesden Country: Jon Hunt (22:55), Richard Harbon (23:27)

Letchworth: Vincent Wright (18:55), Katie Harbon (20:10), James Dalton (20:40), Matt Ankers (24:40), Georgina Quayle (26:00), Jo Harbon (28:03), Julie Taylor (34:50), Carina Quayle (40:48)


​Lowestoft: Chloe Lucas (22:14)

Millfield: William Harrison (21:00)

Norwich: Philip Hawkes (21:43)

Sloughbottom: Angeliki Shearstone (26:12)

Stevenage: Chris Stokes (20:45), James Keogh (20:51), Mike Phillips (21:07), Barbara Sayers (24:50), Natalie Phillips (27:02), Clare Hooley (39:59)

Teignmouth Promenade: Elwyn Howell (21:14)

Wimpole Estate: Anna Greetham (26:38), Matt Roberts (26:38)

Zuiderpark: George Wright (24:17)
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Resolute Squirrels take on Resolution 5k

22/8/2023

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​On Wednesday evening, twenty three North Herts Road Runners headed down the A1M to Ridlins Athletics Track in Stevenage to race the Resolution 5k August event. There were four pace graded races throughout the evening, with squirrels in every race.  The event is great for supporters who fill the stands to cheer the runners on each 400 metres.  There was plenty of support from those who had come along specifically to cheer and also from team mates in different waves, really showcasing the club's great team spirit. 
 
The Squirrels team of Stewart Overton, Ian Datlen, John Auld and Rhia Botha won the team event, almost 5 minutes quicker than second placed Fairland Valley Spartans team of Nick Gill, Mike Jeffs, Ashley Johnson and Yuko Gordon. 
 
There were a few personal best times from the squirrels with Mike Over finishing in a new best time of 19:23. Rhia Botha was excellently paced by David Edwards to a best time of 19:32 and second female overall. Her splits were super consistent before a pick up in the last lap to finish.  Jane Clarke and Cara Sutton also achieved personal best times in 21:34 and 25:12 respectively. 
 
Several squirrels also placed well in their age categories including a few winning. Stewart Overton was first V40, Pete Sibbett was first V60, Lucy O’Connor was first V55 and Monica Cullen was first V75.   Miranda Morgan ran a superb tactical race - and finished with a brilliant sprint to take the win in her race with the whole crowd cheering! - Full results below

Stewart OVERTON 16:33
Ian DATLEN 18:47
John AULD 18:54
Steve MCKEOWN 19:20
Michael OVER 19:23
Ian HARVEY 19:31
Rhia BOTHA 19:32
David EDWARDS 20:18
Mike PHILLIPS 20:36
Peter SIBBETT 20:37
Jane CLARKE 21:34
Andrew WALLIS 22:13
Richard WEBER 22:19
Laurie SCOTT 23:39
Anna GIBSON 25:09
​Cara SUTTON 25:12

Lucy O'CONNOR 26:06
Susan FOOT 27:40
Linda AIRD 28:10
​Karen DODSWORTH 28:49

Miranda MORGAN 29:57
Sheila LEAVY 39:43
Monica CULLIN 50:47
Squirrel in Regents Park 10k
On Sunday Shahab Ahmad raced in the Regents Park 10k on a route past London Zoo and won the event in a blistering time of 35 minutes and 50 seconds. 
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​Park run round up Saturday 19th August

Aldenham: Jon Hunt (23:20)

Bushy Dublin: Joseph Barker-sherry (30:03)

Clacton Seafront: John Russell (25:10)

Coldhams Common: Georgina Quayle (35:15)

Crichton: Laura Fairbanks (24:36)

Great Denham: David Edwards (20:00), Chris Stokes (21:08)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Stewart Overton (18:09), Bob Davis (28:40), Ia Sutcliffe (31:35)

Letchworth: Vincent Wright (19:28), Katie Harbon (20:15), James Dalton (21:00), Matt Ankers (25:21), Nick Walker (26:35), Jane Clarke (29:11), Helen Cairns (29:12), Georgia Barker (30:42), Richard Barker (30:43), Philip Flack (30:47), Julie Taylor (34:40)

​Holkham:
Andrew Coates (25:46)

Jersey: Tom Barclay (18:11)
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Lowestoft: Chloe Lucas (22:11), Lindsey Lucas (38:05)

Lydiard: Steve Brenton (24:42)

Millennium Country: Linda Aird (28:33)

Milton Country: Kris Whitmore (19:35), Brian Judkins (37:23)

Stevenage: Nathaniel Rosa (20:04), Adam Stout (25:10), Andrew Cooper (28:30), Helen Giffin (30:30)

Teignmouth Promenade: Elwyn Howell (21:19)

Warrington: Michael Banister (20:41)
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Wimpole Estate: James Godfrey (21:35), Joe Dixon (22:46), Frances Stanton (27:19)
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Battersea Result for Ben!

13/8/2023

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A quiet week of racing with many Squirrels enjoying the summer holidays saw just one Squirrel in action!  
Ben Sewell headed into London to compete in the Runthrough Battersea 10km.  It's recognised as a great course and attracts a fast field looking for personal best times, as it loops around the flat and wide paths of Battersea Park starting at the Bandstand and circling the Boating Lake before finishing back at the Bandstand.  Ben finished an impressive seventh overall in a personal best time of 34 minutes and 51 seconds.
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Parkrun roundup
Thirty seven squirrels were in parkrun action this weekend:
Letchworth parkrun:  Vincent Wright 19:58, James Godfrey 24:05, John Russell 24:47, James Poulton 26:07, Jegan Simon 26:24, Siobhan Walsh 31:59

Henlow Bridge Lakes parkrun:  Stewart Overton 18:11, Paula Holm 23:01, Mike Phillips 23:02, Dave Braybrook 23:34, Matt Ankers 25:11, Dervla Downing 25:26, Andrew Coates 25:48, Natalie Phillips 27:21, Bob Davis 28:46, Jane Clarke 30:15, Barbara Sayers 30:16, Helen Cairns 30:16

Stevenage parkrun:  Andrew Cooper 28:08, Philip Flack 28:20

Norwich parkrun:  Philip Hawkes 22:05

Nobles parkrun:  Adam Wilson 27:21

Thornbury parkrun:  Lorna Chambers 30:58
Skipton parkrun:  Kris Whitmore 19:30

Sandall Park parkrun:  Brian Judkins 37:06

South Oxhey parkrun:  Jon Hunt 23:29, Richard Harbon 23:37

Jersey parkrun:  Tom Barclay 17:58, Joe Dixon 21:20, Emma Sandham 24:49

Pocket parkrun:  Richard Barker 26:09, Georgia Barker 31:07

Higginson parkrun, Marlow:  Tracey Palmer 31:36, Helen Dudley 35:28

Teignmouth Promenade parkrun:  Elwyn Howell 21:36
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Chevin Forest parkrun:  Aimee Flack 35:39
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Sturdy Squirrels in Rain-Soaked Races: A Weekend of Enthusiastic Adventures and Undampened Grit

6/8/2023

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​This weekend was a quieter one on the race front, and some might say it was for the better, given the unseasonably chilly and wet conditions. However, this was no deterrent for the sturdy squirrels who braved the inclement weather both away and closer to home, showcasing their unwavering spirit that wouldn’t be dampened even by the most challenging conditions.
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In the scenic expanse of the Derbyshire Dales, Alice Noakes and Andy Grudzinski took on the Dovedale Dipper, a challenging course covering 27 miles of mixed terrain with over 1200 meters of elevation, this year made all the more formidable by the wet and muddy conditions.  Their adventure began under dark skies and a relentless drizzle, evolving into a torrential downpour that failed to deter their determination. Conquering the undulating terrain that was punctuated by a variety of stiles, gates and wafer-thin gaps in stone wall, steep and slippery grass/mud slopes, and even the occasional flooded fjord or waist high gorse, these intrepid souls trudged through a picturesque Dovedale cloaked in mist and rain. The race's defining moment arrived early, with a crucial decision to make: an early start armed with bacon rolls or a mass start 30 minutes later. Armed with rolls in hand, they braved the rain-soaked challenge, embodying the resolute spirit of the day. Rather than being put off by the conditions, they willingly embraced the fun of the run and the unexpected bonus of the ‘spa treatment’ offered by the encounters with ‘every type of mud’ along the way, as Alice put it.

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The theme of tenacity continued nearer to home, on the Norton Common, where 48 resilient runners defied the elements in a similarly challenging (albeit shorter) First Saturday of the Month race. Unlike the previous year's sun-soaked skies, this edition was met with heavy rain and boggy conditions, yet the unwavering dedication of the participants remained firm. Among the notable achievements, Steve McKeown stood out as second overall and the first squirrel to cross the finish line, completing the course in under 20 minutes. Sophie and Caroline Thrussell ran together to secure the first and second female positions with times just over 24 minutes. Kat Burr's brilliant effort shone through as she pushed her daughter Maddie in a buggy, clocking an impressive 26:28.

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Amidst the rain-soaked challenges, squirrels also attended a number of Parkruns. Most worthy of mention is Philip Flack’s momentous personal milestone, his 100th Parkrun, made all the more special by the fact that he achieved it on the muddy course at Letchworth, thus clearly showing the enduring passion, resilience and commitment of our runners, who turn out to do what they love regardless of the weather, rather embracing the elements with open arms. 
Parkrun Roundup
 
Great Denham: David Edwards (19:39)

Hunstanton Promenade: Matt Ankers (25:09)

Landsend: Sarah Mitcherson (25:01)
Letchworth: James Poulton (25:53), Philip Hawkes (28:58)

Letchworth: James Poulton (25:53), Philip Hawkes (28:58)


​Lutonwardown: Steve Brenton (21:55)
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Stevenage: Kris Whitmore (19:03), Ian Harvey (20:33), Elwyn Howell (21:50), Jon Hunt (23:20)

Whitehaven: Tom Barclay (17:55), Emma Sandham (24:56)
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Wimpole Estate: Vincent Wright (20:16)
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​North Herts attack the track!

30/7/2023

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Thursday saw Ed Price, Ben Hadman and Tom Webb made their way down to the London Marathon Community Track at the Olympic Park to take part in the Twilight 5000 event.

Ed ran in Race 6 (paced for a 16:20 to 17:00 finish), along with around 25 others. In such a large field of runners with very similar ability levels, the first kilometres were characterised by crowded lanes, ebbs and flows in pace, and nervy manoeuvres.

​As the laps ticked by things opened up. Thanks to the pacers, a fast field, and vocal support from a large and knowledgeable crowd, it was possible to get into a groove, and let the laps tick by. Despite this, Ed found himself falling slightly off the desired pace with three laps to go, but was able to dig in and put together a faster last lap, taking five places and finishing just one second off his target in 16:41.

Ben ran in the subsequent race (a faster group) and Tom in the next (the evening's penultimate race). Ben and Tom both produced typically stunning runs, and more than held their own in two very competitive fields of runners. Tom Webb 15:44, Ben Hadman 16:08, Ed Price 16:41

Stuart Overton travelled up to very wet Sandy on Wednesday evening to take part in the Biggleswade AC Trackfest 10,000 metres. A race that doubles up as the Herts County Championships.
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​A fairly small field meant quite a lot of solo running and being drafted for 22 laps!! Before a couple of last k pickups meant Stuart finished 3rd overall and 1st V40 in a time of 34:48
​Away from the track Ian Datlen finished 3rd Place Overall at the Lee Valley Sundowner 10k. A mostly flat Off Road, Multi Terrain 10k, with 70% paved 30% Trail/grass course. Ian said ‘ I had to dig deep to keep going after I got dropped by the leaders 3km in, but I held on for my first ever Podium!’ Ian finished in a time of 39:10.
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​Whilst you squirrels were asleep in your bed, Andy Grudzinski and Jennie Fraser ran a marathon instead, the torches, including the spare, were donned with care. With hopes that the elevation would be gentle and fair. It was an out and back and the South Downs offered no slack. With 3,500 fl to conquer, they ran the first half together without a falter. With aid stations full of Freddos and melon. They’d settled into a pace but when midnight struck, they took a photo and tried their own luck. Jennie returned in a time of 5:47 and Andy 7:16. Jennie commented “she was surprised how quickly she managed it given the terrain and the pitch black!”

​Proving squirrels are not just good runners, Sophie Thrussll was the 1st lady in the 2k open water swim at Grafham water. 
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​And finally, one of the most anticipated events in the running calendar is the Annual Sheepy Shuffle. The Sheepy is a virtual 5k or half marathon which raises funds for the 55 woollies at the Mirkwood Rest Home for Retired Sheep and Squirrels have been taking part in the Sheepy since the inaugural run in 2020. Mirkwood was founded by runner Andy Bailey and the running community have taken Andy and his sheep to their hearts. Today saw Squirrels Richard Weber, Sue Foot, Anna Gibson, & Miranda Morgan run the half. Linda Aird, Brian Judkins, Lucy O’Connor and Jo Kenlin walked the half and Brian Bailey, Sheila Leavy and Monica Cullen walked/ran the 5k. This year’s route was the Letchworth Greenway followed by coffee and cake at Standalone Farm.

​Parkrun Roundup
​

Barnstaple: Barbara Sayers (26:07)

Gadebridge: Jon Hunt (24:34), Richard Harbon (24:41)

Great Denham: Andrew Leach (17:27), Chris Stokes (20:22), Ian Harvey (20:32), James Godfrey (20:38), Frances Stanton (25:14), Julie Taylor (33:12)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Dave Braybrook (23:20) (50th Parkrun), James Walsh (25:44), Tim Banting (27:51), Linda Aird (30:04), Bob Davis (30:53)

Landsend: Jane Clarke (25:07), Sarah Mitcherson (27:43)

​Letchworth: James Dalton (20:22), Katie Harbon (21:00), Paula Holm (22:26), Steve Brenton (24:07), Adam Stout (26:11), Eleanor Biggs (26:38), Jegan Simon (26:59), Jo Harbon (29:49), Philip Flack (31:11), Carina Quayle (35:01)


​
​Mensola: Philip Hawkes (24:52)

Rheinaue: Steve Mckeown (19:29), Astrid Mckeown (21:03)

Riverfront: Nick Walker (27:14)

Sheringham: Stewart Overton (18:39)

Skipton: Georgina Quayle (26:20)

St Albans: Elwyn Howell (22:06)

Stevenage: Tom Barclay (17:50), Mike Phillips (21:37), Angeliki Shearstone (26:15), Natalie Phillips (28:10)

Wimpole Estate: Kris Whitmore (19:35), Paul Bowal (27:30), Adam Wilson (27:44)
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A "Relay" Great Evening in Stevenage

23/7/2023

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Thursday evening saw 14 teams of Squirrels descend on Fairlands Valley Park to compete against runners from Herts and Bedfordshire running clubs in the annual 3km relay competition hosted by Stevenage's biggest running club, Fairlands Valley Spartans. The race is a four leg relay around the lake in the park. Each leg is 3km and 4 members must complete a leg to make up team. There were awards for the top three teams in Mixed, Womens and Mens categories.

North Herts Road Runners enjoyed great success on the night. Provisional results show NHRR women’s senior and women's veterans teams both finished second in their categories, while the mens veterans finished 3rd overall, but claimed the county silver medal.

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Women's senior team, Team Grey Squirrels were Katie Harbon (second fastest and one of only two women to complete the 3km in under 10 minutes); Hannah Ridley, Rhia Botha and Astrid McKeown. Vet women, Team Black Squirrels were Rachel Arnott; Paula Holm, Tash Pitman and Jane Clarke. Vet Men's team, Team Red Squirrels were Ed Price; Matt Sayers; Shahab Ahmad and Steve McKeown. Men's Team Captain John Auld commented "it was a great team outing, similar to an end of season party which is accessible to all, regardless of speed or age".
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​Silver in Bedford
 
Rhia Botha was out racing the ATW half marathon in Bedford in Sunday.  She took a fantastic second place in a time of 1:34. A fantastic achievement to podium on a course Rhia noted for its “many 180 degree turns”, ultimately it was shy of a PB but Rhia places yet again in a strong summer of running.  

​Elsewhere Philip Flack returned to the Millennium Country Parkrun, Forest of Marston Vale, for the second year running.  A Parkrun claimed to be the longest Parkrun name in the world! Philip was delighted to finish in the top half in 27:31 (To be confirmed as a club record for M70-74 Parkrun). This was 4 minutes faster than last year and cam with it the honour of 'sounding the gong' for a course PB, a local ritual. Philip said “I have to give massive thanks to Karen Dodsworth who has been coaching me this year and enabled me to do this.”

​Parkrun roundup.  
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Bedford parkrun: Chris Stokes 20:05 (PB)

Stevenage parkrun: Ian Datlen 19:23, Mike Phillips 21:38, Paula Holm 21:53, Rhiannon Botha 26:38, Anna Greetham 26:38, Natalie Phillips 27:46, Matt Roberts 27:47, Hayley Cocks 49:02

Pegwell Bay parkrun: Clare Hooley 39:34, James Keogh 40:08

Fell Foot parkrun, Newby Bridge: James Poulton 39:51

​Salisbury parkrun: Laura Fairbanks 24:08

Aldenham parkrun: Richard Harbon 23:06

Hasenheide parkrun: Georgina Quayle 28:40

​Letchworth parkrun: Georgina Quayle 28:40, James Dalton 20:07, Steve Brenton 23:20, James Godfrey 25:14, Paul Bowal 27:01, Alice Noakes 28:11, Jo Harbon 30:54, Carina Quayle 32:42

​Great Denham parkrun: Ian Harvey 19:58, Richard Barker 24:05, Georgia Barker 29:23, Jillian Boys 31:01, Brian Judkins 37:15, Sheila Leavy 40:06 (Walking PB)
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Teignmouth Promenade parkrun: Elwyn Howell 21:20
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Woolacombe Dunes parkrun: Caroline Thrussell 31:05

Haldon Forest parkrun: Dave Braybrook 23:49

Millennium Country parkrun, Forest of Marston Vale: Philip Flack 27:31

St Mary’s parkrun: Linda Aird 29:59

Henlow Bridge Lakes parkrun: Kris Whitmore 19:54

The Great Field parkrun: Tom Barclay 18:47
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