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Results July-Dec 2015

San Silvestre Chipionera 6km, Spain - Tuesday 29th December 2015

Antonio reports:- Second race in Spain in the last 3 days after coming back from Granada this morning. "San Silvestre Chipionera", a 6k race in a flat course close to the coast in South Spain, Chipiona (Cadiz) done in 20'21'' and 15th overall, pleased with that after feeling really tired the whole day. First runner did the 6K in 18'18''....!!

Ilford AC 10 mile XC - Race for Kev - Monday 28th December 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Maya Goodwin
"This is the maddest thing I've ever done!"

I said that to a lot of people this morning. Most people in fact. I mean, I knew what was coming. I knew about the mud and the hills, from when I did The Old Lady Race last year. But I'd also forgotten about the mud and the hills. The total madness of them both.

It was an out and back race, with a loop at each end. Three laps. Which meant there was just LOADS of opportunity to see everyone. And everyone was just so cheerful. Even Scott, who's mantra I won't put in print here as I've been warned by Frank before about my language, but it had perfect pace and rhythm and made me laugh as he lapped me on the hill.

Maud, after we yelled at each other, a Dagenham 88 runner overtook me saying 'you East London Runners are the loudest!' He's not wrong.

Louise, your Eaton Manor cheer squad at the top of the first hill made me laugh. I honestly, genuinely thought they meant me. 'G'WON THE MANOR!' It really sounds like 'G'WON the MAYA!' I told them as I passed, and they were ace and cheered me every time I passed them. More reasons to laugh.

The horses. Did you all see the horses? Bet we all REALLY annoyed them! Slow people coming from behind, speedy muddy men racing towards them at full pelt. Bet they don't normally have such drama on their Sunday morning hack.

I did find the last lap tough. I've never done more than 5 miles in proper cross country before. I totally underestimated how tired your legs get. And my core. Grant, you'll be delighted to know I could hear you 'I told you so'ing from about mile 6! I just felt dog tired, even running the downs felt difficult. But it was so pretty, I couldn't stay despondent, and then I caught the homeward bound marshals! They were lovely. Bouncy and cheerful and full of grins. Thank you marshals. And best of all, I made it home before they did. Phew.

One slice of cake left, and a medal from one of my virtual running group -

San Silvestre Jerezana 7.6km - Sunday 27th December 2015

parkrun - all venues Boxing Day - Saturday 26th December 2015

One First Finisher only, but a terrific lone front run from Aaron Browne of 18.37 to equal his 2014 best at Barking too the second.
East London Runner's reached the 3000th run milestone at Wanstead Flats with Steve Bywater making his debut at Wanstead after staying away for 91 run's elsewhere. He became the 150th ELR on the list and our 3000th finisher.
Maud also completed her 150th run to become 3001st finisher.
Another course pb for Jonathan Wooldridge at Valentines raising his total in December to 2 pb's and course pb's at Hackney, Barking and Valentine's.

Christmas Day parkrun - Barking (except where noted) - Friday 25th December 2015

Eight runner's at Barking, seven came away with parkrun course pb's although a few have run the course faster in ELVIS competitions. The odd one out was Dominic who missed a course pb by 4 seconds. A fine turnout of 155 up from last years 118 runners.
Elsewhere Dan Spinks ran 20.13 to do his best time of the year at Northala Fields.

Christmas Run - Wednesday 23rd December 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Greenwich 10km - Sunday 20th December 2015

554 finishers.

Torrington Christmas Caper (approx 9.5 miles) - Sunday 20th December 2015

228 finishers. Sarah reports:- Claire and I ran just shy of 10 miles, up hills, down hills, and through mud and water up to our thighs. And were handsomely rewarded with Christmas Pudding and clotted cream. Claire was fast and I was slow but we made it. — at Torrington Rugby Club.

Sikh's in the City Dawn to Dusk Ultra - Sunday 20th December 2015

Chingford League - Event 4 of 6 - Jubilee Park hosted by Eton Manor - Saturday 19th December 2015

152 runners, 96 men and 52 ladies.
Men's team were 5th and 4th overall.
Ladies team were

Lee Valley, Velodrome Event - Saturday 19th December 2015

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 19th December 2015

Cooper Test - Track session - Ashtons - Monday 14th December 2015

Ellie 2850 / 2850
Grant Conway 2900
Spencer Evans 3260 / 3160
Alex Bee 3260 ( pacing Spencer)/ 3490
Maud Hodson 2700
Judith Vonberg 2700
Sheetal Dee 2700
Karen Levison 3050
Peter Hatley 3100
John Paul Healy 2950
Iain Mackie 2800
Alan 2300
Vicky Nutt ?2300
Katie Buranska 2600
Jason Levy 2650
Adrian 2100
Emma 'Murphy' Hobbs 2200
Stuart Barton 2400
Caroline Moore 2450
Fiona Day 2600
Jennifer Ansell 3250
Maya Goodwin 2100
Frank Brownlie 2400
Chris 2680
Maran Raju 2880

Mo Farah Foundation Olympic Park 10km - Sunday 13th December 2015

Mo Farah Foundation Olympic Park 5km - Sunday 13th December 2015

487 finishers.

Royal Parks 10km Winter Series, Regents Park - Sunday 13th December 2015

Antonio reports:- Over the moon with my time at the Royal Parks Winter Series at Regent's Park, PB. Managed to keep a consistent pace and overtake runners during the whole race. Official time: 10K in 35'58'' at 3'36'' per km and 6th overall out of 700 runners. Over a year ago I did Kingston 10K in almost 41' meaning I have improved 34'' per km. Good feelings for the London Marathon 2016! Next two races in Spain!

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 12th December 2015

One First Finisher this week was Thomas at Grovelands. Craig's first time at Hackney but he paced Jonathan and Shailesh to course pb's and best age grades of 2015. Best age grade also for John Booth at Mile End. Course pbs also for Spencer at Valentine's and John Healy at Brockwell.
12 runners at Wanstead brought us to 2,982 runs at Wanstead Flats, soon to reach the 3000 mark.

Christmas Party - Thursday 10th December 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Bedford Half Marathon - Sunday 6th December 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

1,010 finishers.

Bromham Pudding Run 10km - Sunday 6th December 2015

415 finishers.

Sunday XC League - Event 3 - Willian, Herts. (5.4miles aprox) - Sunday 6th December 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 10km Winter Seriespark - Saturday 5th December 2015

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 5th December 2015

Two first finisher's at Wanstead Flats. Both for the first time with Sam Browne (18.25) and Claire Parker, her 50th parkrun in 22.00. James Wilson was second for 4th consecutive weeks. Tim Aylett his first time at Wanstead.
This brings ELR to 149 runners and 2,970 runs at Wanstead Flats.

La Rochelle Marathon - Sunday 29th November 2015

Edgemead Classic 10km, Cape Town, SA - Saturday 28th November 2015

Fraternity Cup, Trent Park - Saturday 28th November 2015

parkrun - all venues. - Saturday 28th November 2015

Sunday XC League - Event 2 - Trent Park - Sunday 22nd November 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

495 finishers, 176 ladies and 319 men.

City of Norwich Half Marathon - Sunday 22nd November 2015

Rodings Rally (five points) - Saturday 21st - 22nd November 2015

On Saturday evening an ELR reunion of Edward Barnard from Epping, Jimmy Hartwell from Bristol and Matt Jones now living in Kent, they were taking part in this years Roding Rally (5 point competition). After finishing 3rd in 2012 and 2014 , they did slightly better this year. WINNERS!
Also Claire Emery and family took part in the 5 point competition.
The Intrepid Trio of Edward, Jimmy and Matt were appropriately dressed for their overnight challenge! Rodings Rally is an all night orienteering-style / map reading competition that takes place in Epping Forest. The Rally follows a route through Epping Forest along a variety of paths, tracks and trackless scrub.

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 21st November 2015

Brooks Brighton 10km - Sunday 15th November 2015

Valencia Marathon - Sunday 15th November 2015

St Neots Half Marathon - Sunday 15th November 2015

Para's 10, Colchester - Sunday 15th November 2015

Vitality WestRun 10km - Sunday 15th November 2015

After Adoption 10km, Regents Park - Sunday 15th November 2015

310 finishers.

Patrick O'Dea 5km Road Race - Sunday 15th November 2015

London Cross Country Championships, Hampstead Heath - Saturday 14th November 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Maya's report:- Today was the first time I ever had to come to terms with the possibility of coming last in a race. Actually dead last. Parliament Hill. I did it last year. It was tough then. Muddy, hilly, chilly. I was about 4 from the back. Never in last place.
This year it was muddy, hilly, rainy, chilly, scratch that, freezing. Bloody freezing. And icy cold rain that steadily got worse. But, you know, 6k. How hard can it be?

Very. From the off I was at the very back. Just a few steps behind the lovely Emma 'Murphy' Hobbs but at the back nonetheless. About halfway round the first lap I wanted to walk. I also wanted to cry. I'm used to being at the back, but I'm never actually LAST. I thought of Julie's blog about being last and how it's ok. But it didn't feel it. It felt rubbish. And I felt defeated. The gap between me and Emma was growing.
After about 2.5k (so only about 20 mins, but it felt like about an hour) I realised I was gaining on Emma slightly. That cheered me up a bit. Then I clocked Emma overtake a girl in black. I hadn't seen her before. I thought she must be a casual runner, not a racer. And then there was Grant! Now I know this is silly, but I was sort of embarrassed. He'd waited to cheer us all through, and there was me. Last. Sigh. But then his grin really cheered me. 'Come on Maya, you're a legend you know!' Those words lifted my spirits like you wouldn't believe. And then he caught my eye, cocked his head to the girl in black, who was closer now, and mouthed 'go on'. So she was racing too!

I overtook her. And then... NOT LAST!
The next lap wasn't easy at all. But I felt so much more spirited. Emma and I ran it together and we got to the end. Hurray. And thank you Alexandra Brown for stopping me from walking in the last 100m, how lame would that have been!

Anyway. I'm not sure where I'm really going with this. It feels wrong to be so pleased to beat the girl in black and leaving my 'I hate being last' demons with her. But what I did decide was that in that cold and rain, only the most hardcore would be brave enough. Which makes me hardcore. Me and the girl in black too. And that'll do just fine.

Men's Team 11th out of 24.
Womens Team 17th out of 20.
353 Men and 203 Women finished.

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 14th November 2015

Run In The Dark 10km, BatterseaPark - Wednesday 11th November 2015

Stebbing Remembrance Day 10 Mile - Sunday 8th November 2015

Bexhill Poppy Half Marathon - Saturday 7th November 2015

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 10km - Saturday 7th November 2015

Loughton AC Vets Inter Club Race 5 miles - Saturday 7th November 2015

Team came 2nd place.

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 7th November 2015

Chingford League - Event 3 of 6 - Hog Hill 5km, Redbridge Cycle Circuit - Tuesday 3rd November 2015

Men's team 4th (4th overall)
B Team 4th (3rd overall)
Vets team 5th (4th overall)
Women's team 8th (5th overall)
Women Vets 7th (5th overall)

Marlow 7m - Sunday 1st November 2015

Tough course with lots of hills.

Stevenage Half Marathon - Sunday 1st November 2015

507 finishers.

Mornington Chaser's Regents Park 10km, Winter Series - Sunday 1st November 2015

326 finishers.

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 31st October 2015

Ghostly going's on at parkrun as it falls on Halloween. Even though the werewolves and zombies were frightening , more worrying was the Alex Bee bringing along his barcode. He still didn't scan it but at least it was there. Two first place finishes from Thomas at Grovelands and Mark with a 1 second course pb at Wanstead. Course pb's from Spencer & Claire also at Wanstead.
A first parkrun from Daisy and a 99th from Alan Branch also.
Course pb's from Jonathan and Stuart at Hackney and John Healy at Dulwich also. 38 ELR parkrunners this weekend and best age grades for 2015 from Jonathan and Aaron.

Go Tri Sprint Duathlon, Velo Park - Tuesday 27th October 2015

3200m run/ 16000m bike/3200 run

Dublin Marathon - Monday 26th October 2015

James Nichols Dublin marathon race report

After enjoying my marathon debut at Brighton in April I decided fairly early that I'd quite like another go soon and an October trip to Dublin stood out, with it being somewhere I wanted to visit anyway and with the race recommended by fellow club members.

And over those six months my running has come on leaps and bounds (and a lot of credit for that is down to the training and races I've done with the club) with big PBs posted across all distances up to HM over that time. Training for this marathon couldn't have gone more smoothly with just a few minor tweaks such as an extra couple of long runs, a longer taper and more hillwork. The only thing that went wrong was at my final prep race HM in Brussels - I never did file a report for that one, so in short I packed the wrong phone charger, and with no alarm I predictably overslept and so had to dash to the race start on a healthy breakfast of jelly babies. And even that resulted in a 2 minute PB (take that Jamie Oliver!), and made me confident that a sub 3:15 marathon was achievable.

So onto Dublin. It was a cold drizzly morning but was full of confidence as I got into the start pen after a large breakfast and in plenty of time (lesson learned from my Brussels experience there!). The first half of the race flew by. Plenty of support on the route for the 15,000 runners and was a minute or 2 ahead of schedule at halfway (in about 97 mins) but didn't feel I was overexerting, clocking miles consistently in the 7:10 to 7:35 range.

But to use a football cliche this was a real "game of 2 halves". Immediately from halfway the wind picked up (the light drizzle was constant throughout) and the course opened up, so slowed to 8 minute miles for the next quarter of the race and wasn't feeling strong. I wasn't panicking at this stage, even though I was struggling I figured the start left me with plenty of credit in the bank and 3:20 was still on the cards. But it was soon after this group went past me that things started to go wrong. I walked.

Now I still don't think that was a mistake. The 21st mile is the hilliest on the course and I figured a couple of minutes walking up the hill would allow me to recover slightly and galvanise me for a big 40 minute effort to the finish. But I knew history from a long time ago meant this was a risk. It's not something I'd done in training or races this year, but mentally I never recovered. I ran for a bit. Then walked again. And again. While running my pace was fine but found it hard to motivate myself to sustain it just for 3 or 4 miles, which was disappointing. The noisy crowd helped a lot and managed to keep running to the line for a time of 3:27:16.
So it was slower than planned but I'm happy enough. On another day conditions will be more favourable and there was enough in the first half of the race and the pace I did manage when running towards the end that the 3:15 target is a realistic one for the spring. Plus this can only provide motivation for it. The event itself I would recommend. The International Breakfast Run held the morning before was great fun - a slow 4k for international athletes followed by breakfast accompanied by Irish music and dancing. The marathon was well marshalled and well supported in number across all parts of the course. And I hear they are moving it to a Sunday next year which should make it more accessible if any of you fancy giving it a go.

Venice Marathon - Sunday 25th October 2015

Great South Run - Sunday 25th October 2015

Frankfurt Marathon - Sunday 25th October 2015

Tom's Report - I entered this marathon late last Year after reading favourable reports on marathonguide.com about the nature of the course being flat and fast and the unique indoor finish. All of which transpired to be accurate , a couple of minor complaints though being at several points on the course the streets were very narrow and there were way too many turns and loops. On some portions of the course the streets are cobbled and several parts where you need to cross tram tracks.

On the morning of the race , the weather was dry , overcast , cool and not windy , all good for running.

The Frankfurt Marathon employs pacemakers , so I tucked in behind the 3:44 guys with the intention of staying with them as far as I could.
So at 10:00 we all began to do the shuffle forward towards the start line and off we went.

For the first 15km I struggled to stay with the pacemakers , as my breakfast felt heavy in my stomach , I normally run mornings on an empty stomach , so this was new to me. But as we neared the halfway point I began to feel more settled and for the first time got ahead of the pacemakers , a lead that I would
extend as the race wore on. This was a massive surprise as I had not done all that many long runs in my training leading up to this race , but the runs that I did do in training were faster , which begs the question - how so?

Back in the beginning of June , I began to make changes to my diet , I didn't eat any less , but I did eat a lot different. Many things I cut out completely and replaced with low fat , lean and healthy alternatives. I regret not weighing myself before I started this , but friends who have seen me before and after estimate around an 8kg weight reduction.

I finished the race feeling remarkably strong considering the pace I was going at in a PB of 3:41:43 a 10min improvement on last Years Amsterdam Marathon and felt I could have gone sub 3:40 , but that will be the target for next Year.
I never expected that Nutrition would play such a major role in my running times.

Bring on the Beetroot!

Bristol to Bath Marathon - Sunday 25th October 2015

Bristol to Bath Marathon – race report from Caroline Moore of ELR.
I was a spectator, supporting my brother and his running friends, all running their first marathon, and also got to see Bex Young of ELR at various stages.

This was the first Bristol-Bath marathon, which starts in the centre of Bristol and starts with a 10 mile out and back along the river and past the Clifton Bridge, this part is flat, but there is then a pretty but very hilly route up to Bath, where runners got a scenic but hilly tour of the sights of Bath before finishing on the Royal Avenue. Starting in one City and finishing in another on a Sunday morning causes some transport and logistical problems, so I drove my runners to Bristol, took their belongings, and stayed to cheer them past miles 1 and 10. I battled with traffic on the A4 to make it to mile 22 and then the finish. I also took my large Nikon camera and long lens to take photos of them at these points, even with the right kit, race photography is darned tricky.

Seeing the runners struggle up the hill at mile 22 was humbling. By this time they’d had some tough hills, with this one and more to come, I saw runners who’d been running at 3:30 pace crumble and start walking. This was a bit shocking as these were people who could run a marathon an hour faster than I could hope to do, but Bex and my brother came up looking very strong. Despite some dark moments, most finishers came to the end pretty happy in the lovely autumn sunshine, though St Johns Ambulance was pretty busy, and we saw several people who’d collapsed. Bex and my brother, who did not see each other, both had times of 3:35, and my brother’s two friends were also thrilled with their well-paced run of 4:09. I missed my brother’s finish because of traffic - fortunately his girlfriend made it – because many roads were closed because of the race and paying for parking, being a supporter has its own rewards and challenges!

Overall, a good race, organisationally everything worked well, and although all marathons deserve respect, this one really needs careful training and pacing. I also gave a lift to a 19 year old who was insufficiently prepared, he did the first half in 2 hours 11, and finished in 5:33… It seems over 6000 people entered the race, with entries closing in late August, but just over 4000 turned up, so that’s a lot fewer than most city marathons. Would I run it? At mile 22, I thought “no way!” but at the end…. “maybe”, though I think my runners are now dreaming of their next, flatter, marathon.

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 24th October 2015

Beachy Head Marathon - Saturday 24th October 2015

Alex reports.
Signed up for Beachy Head as was looking for a Autumn marathon and didn’t want the pressure of looking for a PB and the terrain and hills would ensure I would not be acquiring, as Danny Lee put it, “a Shiny new PB”. Also, although my accent would tell you otherwise, and as with my folks and uncle who also ran, I am technically a “Sussex man” (my mum obviously being a woman) so there was some connection to our collectives pasts. Finally, I spoke with Neil Cook (who is getting a habit of getting in ELR race reports eh Bolts!) featured in a Runners World article over the Summer and recommended when we were getting changed for an Orion Five mile race over the summer.

So on with the day itself. I left my hotel to pick my folks up en routes as they were staying in a slightly posher hotel closer to the start. I had the radio in my ears and Pulp’s ‘Do You Remember the first Time?’ came on and, although obviously being about something a bit more blue, I couldn’t help but think of my first marathon which Patrick and I ran some years previously in Cork. However, unlike Jarvis I can remember ‘my worst’ ,that being Milton Keynes. I am sure there is a ‘Survivors group’ somewhere whereby group therapy helps finishers collectively overcome the trauma (hope no one has signed up for 2016!).
In contrast to the friendly atmosphere the start is an intimidating site that ensures that the race won’t “break you in softly” thus offering you no false sense of security in terms of what is to come. But hey, that’s we signed up right?! A scramble of a grassy hill is followed but a gradual climb to the top of the downs and then yes, we are in and I feel settled. I immediately get chatting to a Victoria Park runner who informs me he has run this before and appears to be of similar ability to myself; he says it is easy to go off too quick and really suffer on the accumulative hills at the end. I end up being no more than 100M behind or in front of him and am now FB buddies- the wonders of modern technology eh!

I describe this as Chalk and Cheese as we are running on literal chalk whilst the race itself is pretty much the exact opposite to the proverbial cheese of the London marathon which I ran almost 6 months to the day earlier. I loved London in that it is my Hometown having lived here since the age of 6 months. Plus, the ELR water station was probably the best ‘high’ I have ever felt during a race. The crowds were great and oh, I also achieved a PB there. Beachy Head however offers something far different. No lucozade and gels on offer, rather squash, chunks of Mars Bars, Hot Cross buns and even cups of tea! No mile markers and no crowds, except for a few marshals and walkers who are also out to enjoy the beautiful scenery that the downs offer. The sea is on view for the majority of the course thus making the climbs very worthwhile indeed. There is probably far less than 400M of road with country paths, chalk and flint, woodland steps, trail with grass offering some needed respite. Oh, and it felt as if you were either going up or down for the vast majority and therefore Beachy Head offers something that most city marathons cannot offer.

I enjoyed the first twenty miles and enjoyed the liberating feeling of wearing no watch. When it was feeling tough I kept telling myself that I am not at work and this is to be enjoyed and not endured. It is all in the mind they tell me. We had been very fortunate with the weather as October has been pretty day as with the day itself. In actual fact, I ended up discarding my compression vest as I was overheating (I sincerely apologise for technically littering but there was no way I was going back after!).

Alistair Campbell famously said a marathon is run in two halves- the first 20 and the last 6. That couldn’t be truer of this. Everyone talks of the Seven Sisters which are a combination of rolling hills that begin at approximately mile 20. Whilst the views are unquestionably the best on offer, said view also gives you a view of what you will be walking/running/climbing/rolling over for the next few miles as you can see the ‘Lighthouse’ in the distance which essentially signals the end. By this point my lack of running training was kicking in as I opted to do the majority of my training in the gym. I kept thinking I should have attended Grant’s (two mentions for you skip!) hill session on Monday was struggling, oddly enough, running down hill where the pain was not allowing me to make up for running uphill, which I surprisingly didn’t find too bad.

Murakami writes about what he ‘thinks about whilst running’. With no watch and an endeavour to stay positive, my mind certainly went into fantasy overdrive with the vista allowing me to imagine I was Aragon (from ‘Lord of the Rings’ part one whereby the central protagonists are running over the grassy landscape) and that I had to finish the race in order to save middle earth and find Liv Tyler...Definitely daydreaming here and losing all sense of reality.

Anyway, the last water station informs us that we have about four miles left. Little over a park run then and I am still with me newly acquired chums with us all offering one another encouragement and ‘to stay strong’. A walker shortly informs that there is a mile of downhill to go and that I am in 4th place- I am rather surprised but also aware that the I have been overtaken going downhill and sure enough, my Vicky Park buddy come past me with 500M and another chaps flies past me in the last 60M or so as we descend the same hill that we climbed some hours before and at the start. I was delighted to get my print out that states I finish in 3:16:31 and in 6th place. I was also delighted not to see my dad who had been advised not to run due to an injury. This probably meant he was probably still on the course with my mum.

I say well done and share some high fives and hugs with the good folk that offered encouragement and, dare I say it, ‘good vibes’, throughout the course. I forgot to mention that the start and end of the race is a Public School with us runners being able to use their facilities. This includes their swimming pool which I decide to utilise as to ‘aid my recovery’ whist also having a ruddy good wash. I get chatting to the blokes tendering the pool with one of them informing me he is a local fireman. I can’t help thinking that I have stumbled into someone else’s fantasy with some poor woman wondering why she is sitting with Liv Tyler with slightly strange ears . I refrain from telling said fireman this for obvious reasons.

There is no T-shirt or goody bag which I am quite pleased about as I have more technical wear than you could shake a stick at (I don’t quite know where that expression comes from). However, the school canteen does offer runners a free meal. My only disappointment and grumble of the day is the pudding. That being rice pudding. I am sure we got chocolate sponge cake with hundreds and thousands in a sea of chocolate custard when at school.

I met up with my uncle and we trudged to the finish whilst talking of our newly acquired aches. Delighted to see their beaming smiles on the faces of mum and dad as they came down the hill. Beachy Head is truly an exceptional race and undoubtedly the prettiest course I have ever run. Yes, we were lucky with the weather, but I very much hope to go back next year.

Fiona reports.
Beachy Head Marathon – Joggers report

The final instructions for the Beachy Head Marathon (BHM) included 2 starting positions so when I registered the evening before I had to ask the official what is the difference between runners and joggers. From his reply- the runners are trying to get round in about 3 hours. I decided I was a jogger- I hadn’t even seen the hill at the start then as I might have guessed! I did ask what about the walkers as I had read that some people walk round and he said they go at the back!

Alex was in the runners category. So here is a report to entice the joggers! Because there is a lovely relaxed joggers groove if you let yourself find it. I’ll try not to repeat Alex’s info but apologies if I do. Strangely for the same reason as Alex I had entered BHM because it was a trail Marathon and there was no pressure to get a good time, (just as well!) However I took it seriously enough to do my usual marathon training with Kieran who had entered as well doing our long runs together. Unfortunately Kieran picked up a calf injury just towards the end of increasing the mileage, which meant neither of us were as prepared as we would have liked in fact Kieran was advised against running it by the physio he saw in a desperate attempt to get better in time. I guess being a club runner I did have a sort of target time around 5 hours as the instructions had also said allow 30 – 45 minutes more than your road marathon time. However I now think the time you add is relative to your usual marathon pace. I had checked the course profile and had already decided to walk up any steep hills, hoping to make time on the downhill runs.

We got to the start with Alex and my brother Ollie. Alex and Ollie went into the runners section and Kieran and I squeezed in with the joggers. The first hill was in clear view now. The conditions were perfect, the weather was moderate and sunny and despite heavy rain in the week before the ground was firm any puddles and mud could be avoided. The start felt easy, walking up the hills helped Kieran’s calf, even so walking any part of a marathon still felt a guilty pleasure.
We’d already climbed onto the South Downs and the first check point came along quickly. Another couple of hills and check point two and the first feeding station, squash, biscuits, chopped mars bars (yum) felt like rocket fuel. Another climb and check point 3, bananas, biscuits and mars bars here. I didn’t really need to re- fuel but I did just in case things weren’t so good later on. The miles were ticking away quickly, Kieran’s calf was holding up and everything was just so pleasant, never far from sea views and the unspoilt Sussex countryside. It was all very relaxing. Perhaps too relaxing and somewhere between checkpoint 3 and 4 I noticed very few people were trying to run up the hills anymore in fact I was surrounded by resolute looking club runners marching up the hills with me. Checkpoint 4 in the beautiful village of Littlington, was a turning point, feeling the strain a bit by now at 16 miles and arriving at the checkpoint to see runners sitting down to drink tea or coffee and munching the hot cross buns or sausage rolls on offer here listening to a local musicians playing, it was tempting to linger but I made do with a quick coffee, I’d already had too much to eat by now but the ambience here helped me slip further into a relaxed groove. Now it seemed everyone was going at conversation pace and had time to natter as they ran. Kieran’s calf was holding up so well he was waiting for me to catch up at every turn now. The 2 flights of steps through the forest were tough even in my relaxed frame of mind. My watch told me we were just shy of mile 20 at 4 hours and already on the Seven Sisters. Crazy to think I actually wondered whether we could manage the last 6 miles in just over an hour to get near to the 5 hour time I had entertained. Kieran said we should aim for 5.30. However at check point 5 at mile 22 I was totally seduced -I had a cup of tea, sat down and admired the scenery, lovely!! It was a shame I was full of mars bars as they had nice cake here. I never lost it completely -if I saw a photographer I warned Kieran and tried to make it look like I was running! Only 4 miles to go –yes-we were going to finish, but it was tough, it is uppy downy here and my legs hurt when I started running again after walking so walking uphill was no longer something I looked forward to. There were still plenty of other runners around chatting away, supporting one another, BHM veterans telling us that it was all down hill to the finish after we reached Beachy Head. My watch informed me the battery was low, blimey it has 6 hours battery life- I only charged it last night! But I couldn’t get a move on even if I tried, Kieran kindly still waiting for me at every turn. Beachy Head had been in sight a long time and we finally got there. It was a wonderful feeling running towards the finish, finally down the hill we started on, I hadn’t noticed the stairs in the grass on the way up so it was a couple of ouches on the steeper steps before I could run onto the road where I saw Ollie and Alex waiting for us , then over the finish. Just after Kieran in 5 hours 32 mins. We went to the school canteen for the free meal and another cup of tea. It is a wonderful course and a really enjoyable well organised event, even if the weather and conditions hadn’t been favourable it would be good. Highly recomended.

Abingdon Marathon - Sunday 18th October 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Congratulations to Mark for setting a new marathon PB and finishing 12th out of a field of 713 runners.



Mark about to cross the finish line!

Mark reports.The journey to the Abingdon Marathon began back in March this year. I missed a lot of training for the 2015 London Marathon and was working hard to catch up when I was knocked off my bike on the way to work one morning which was the final nail in the coffin to this year’s London.

At that point I decided to enter Abingdon, aware of its reputation for being fast and flat. I also made a decision to commit to a training plan for the 1st time. For my previous marathons I had always cobbled together a plan based on hearsay and previous experience and I felt I might be selling myself short, that’s not to criticise anything I had done previously, I just felt there was more to come.

A friend at work recommended a plan that had seen him achieve a big improvement and having bought the book a year or so earlier I finally opened the book at began reading the theory behind the plan which enabled me to buy into its philosophy. I tend to be pretty black and white in my thinking, if you tell me something I want to see it, so I had seen my friends marathon time improve and now I had the theory in black and white in front of me.

The plan laid out exactly what I need to do in a structured format. It is a big commitment to make, the plan requires running 6 days a week and details what is expected in each session. But I am used to a heavy workload training wise and took comfort in having each session planned for me.

Having just bought a house and going through the process of decorating has meant I have not been able to make club runs as often as I would like, also having track sessions planned at specific speeds has meant I have not been able to make Grant’s track sessions either. However, the experience of running alone at specific times became invaluable when it came to Abingdon.

The build up to Abingdon could not have gone better, having followed the plan for 7 months and achieved PB’s along the way meant I was going into the race as confident as I could be. The only doubt in the back of my mind was that the plan’s longest run is 16 miles. The theory is that the plan prepares you for the last 16 miles of a marathon not the first 16 miles- it’s based on cumulative fatigue.

Onto race day itself. It could not have gone better. An early morning alarm call 5:50am and a quick pre-marathon breakfast (Porridge and a round of toast and jam washed down with a cup of tea) and my Dad drove me and my support team (Mum & girlfriend) the hour and half to Abingdon. We arrived just before 8am for a 9am start which was perfect time to get changed and use the facilities- race HQ was at a sports centre so plenty of space to change, Vaseline the feet and relax for 10 mins before the start.

Made my way to the start line which was a on a tight path similar to Elvis 1, made eye contact with a few runners but everyone had game face on. 99% club runners, no fun runners, everyone was there for a time, not a fun time.

Under starters orders and we were off. Straight away I managed to settle into my target pace, the lead pack headed off into the distance but I had experience enough to know I was running my own race, not to worry too much what other people were up to. After a mile or so I was running with one or two people, then they would drop off so I spent much of the race running on my own. The course itself was ok. One small loop then 2 laps of a bigger loop which took in what seemed to be endless industrial estates. The marshals were fantastic as ever and crowds were very few and far between. Runner’s family members in one’s and two’s every now and then.

I had my splits written on my arm and was about 40 seconds ahead of schedule going through half way. I felt good, but the old adage “race begins at 20” going through my head. I have also experience marathon’s where I flew through 18 miles before the wheels came off so it was about staying calm and ticking off the miles.

At this point I have to mention Neil Cook, from our friends at Victoria Park Harriers. I assume Neil was up there supporting a friend but he was a hero. He was cycling between points on the course with encouraging words to keep me going, and helping me tactically, encouraging me to slowly bridge the gap from one group to another, working my way through the field.

Another huge boost was seeing my Dad and girlfriend at mile 15, the adrenaline that produced resulted in my fastest mile. But soon it was back to long, lonely miles round the industrial estates. The last few miles I had to dig in, but luckily (for me) I was lapping people which enabled me to build momentum coming into the last few miles. Again Neil Cook pooped up, screaming at me to “Stop looking at your watch just Drive” then “10 minutes of pain”

I finally headed back up to drive to the sports centre and back on to the running track for the final lap to the finish line. At this point I was just swinging my arms and driving the legs hoping to line would come, I was aware of the commentator mentioning names and times but couldn’t make him out over the sounds of my family screaming at me. I crossed the line 12th in a new personal best time and once I had recovered from cramp, received my finishers medal from a young scout called Liam.

There are too many people to thank personally and I would not want to miss anyone out but want to thank you all for inspiring me in so many ways. Without what some of you have achieved, I would not have the confidence or belief to have the targets I have. Also thanks to everyone for the likes, the supportive comments, the Strava gang for the kudos and inspiring me to get there and have a go.

Jill Oliver 10K - Edmonton RC - Sunday 18 October 2015

225 Finishers

Great Birmingham Run Half Marathon - Sunday 18th October 2015

Sunday Cross Country League - Event 1 - Cheshunt - Sunday 18th October 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

The men's team was 6th and Women's team 9th out of 20 teams. Men's Masters 15th and Women's Masters 12th out of 20. Women's 'B' 12 out of 13.
452 runners finished. (286 Men and 166 Women).

Chingford League - Event 2 of 6 - Loughton XC (approx 5 miles) - Saturday 17th October 2015

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Caroline Moore;- This was great fun, pretty course, really rural vibe despite being half a mile from Loughton station and near the M11 with hay bales and kissing gates - Maya Goodwin you would have loved those, and it was in daylight with no mud. Apparently they had to change the course because there were cows in the way. And Sarah Burns brought cake!

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 17th October 2015

GO TRI - Redbridge Duathlon, Cricklefields Stadium - Friday 16 October 2015

1 mile run - 2 mile bike - 1 mile run

Cooper Test - Monday 12th October 2015

Spencer Evans 3160
Angus James Nicholls 3000
Sheila Kennedy 2300
Alex Day 3490
Alex Bee 3490
Russell Price 3450
Thomas Glasock 3445
Aaron J Browne 3200
James Nichols 3250
Daisy 2700
Katie Buranska 2600
Tricia O'Neill 2550
Mark Wyatt 3400
Paul Thompson 3210
Salvatore Passerini 3250
Clarke Jomes 3225
Ellie Wilkinson 2850
Gina Radford 2300
Gemma Foxall 2650
Craig Livermore 2950
Serg 3130

Ridgeway Run 15km, Tring - Sunday 11th October 2015

564 finishers. Very hilly.

Vitality Oxford Half Marathon - Sunday 11th October 2015

Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon - Sunday 11th October 2015

Perkins Great Eastern Half Marathon - Sunday 11th October 2015

Paul reports:- I ran the Great Eastern Half Marathon in Peterborough today. The course is flat and fast and run through the city centre and residential areas. Great crowd support throughout the race, decent goody bag and medal as well.

I was determined to go out easier after starting too fast in Pleshy HM a few weeks back and seemed to pay off as I had more in the tank in the 2nd half of the race. 3hrs of driving and less than 80min of running but it was well worth the trip, might even go back next year. Official time 75:58.

Swindon Half Marathon - Sunday 11th October 2015

900 finishers.

Royal Parks Half Marathon - Sunday 11th October 2015

Maya's report:- Here is a top tip. You can have it for free. It's always better to be prepared. The Scouts are onto something there I tell you.

I felt ready for the marathon in April (what, didn't you realise I'd run one?!?). I was nervous, but I knew I'd done all I could. For Royal Parks, I just knew I hadn't done enough. Of any of it. The miles, the intervals, the stretching. I'd done enough eating though. Dragging those extra lbs round 13.1 miles wasn't going to help either.

Anyway, after a drawn out bag drop palaver we were on our way. Lovely Fiona Rutland was going to run with me, (this is becoming a habit, getting myself a personal running mentor to help me round, I recommend it!)

Lots of twists and turns through London for the first 10k. You all know how I like to see the speedsters going the other way - there was loads of opportunity for that. A water station - I accidentally soaked another runners foot in lucozade, oops. I totally deserved that glare. And then back into the park.

It was like Tower Bridge all over again! The whistles, the cheering, the joy, fantastic! More runners going the other way to look at. And then a big long loop. I lost the plot a bit at 10 miles. 'Fiona, will you carry my sunglasses, they're making me claustrophobic....'

I was tired with tiny lungs and jelly legs. Forget walking, I just wanted to lie down and stop moving altogether. A second gel and an internal talking to. 'Look here Maya, Fiona is running with you to help you, it's not on for you to not give it everything. You are NOT WALKING.'

I knew I wouldn't get a pb (about 2:24) but I was hoping to come close to my pw (2:33). I decided today would be about telling that monkey on my back to STFU. At last, you could see the finish. I'm no Usain Bolt, it took me more than 20s to do those 200m. But I came in at 2:32:56.
I'll take that ta. And listen to Mr Baden Powell next time.

John Healy's report:-Brief (ish) (and late) race report for the RPHM several ELRs' ran this Sunday. I had pinned this race for a HM PB 3 months ago after being out of running for the first four months of the year with a torn calf muscle. I spent May and June trying to build my fitness back to an acceptable level with Wednesday runs, parkruns and Monday track and then took on a 3 month runners world plan for a sub 1:40 half at that event. My previous PB was also here last year at 1:44.44. Actually sticking to the plan wasn't to hard once i'd got into a groove with it and it dovetailed well with Monday track and hill sessions, Wednesday club runs and a long Sunday run. Extra runs and a few more hill and speed sessions thrown in with an iron man friend which is always handy. Watching my 5k, 10k and 10 mile PBs' all fall during this period, it boded well and i was getting more confidence. A lot of this was down to Grant Conway and the teams track sessions, and the club members advice and encouragement.

(Un)fortunately? I had a two week break in Colombia 2 weeks before the event that wouldn't have been construed under any circumstances as a training camp. Running the Elvis 7 a minute slower than my last one the day after my return and being spotted by several ELR barfing by a tree after didn't bode well. I consolidated as best as I could for the next two weeks but thought my sub 1:40 was going to be out of reach.
6.00 am start day of race and out the door by 7 to get train up from Brixton. This always seems an amazingly well organised event (apart from the bag drop this year) and the weather was being kind for the third year. Bag and toilet queues done, it was almost there so I wriggled into the green section where I wouldnt have had the confidence to place myself peviously. I needed to stick to roughly 7.30 miles which i was there or thereabouts, even with a toilet break (speedy one) but the wrong side of target by mile 10/11 when I chanced upon Jonathan Wooldridge who was also gunning for a PB. We were both blowing a bit by this point but still had something. I thought I was 1/2 mile ahead of him going down the last 800 when he popped up grimacing and charging on my shoulder, forcing us into a fight to death for the finish line. This turned out to be a godsend as my fastest mile was comfortably my last, and i crept under my target by 5 seconds - Job done, thanks again Jonathon - I owe you a big beer. Very encouraging that training can actually work if you do it and not think about doing it a lot which is my usual plan...... Good Colombian street food stall there after so I was home from home and snagged a Gore bargain to boot...

Wimbledon Common Half Marathon - Sunday 11th October 2015

parkrun - all venues. - Saturday 10th October 2015

also Anita Lomax 85 28.39 55.44 cpb

Chingford League - Event 1 of 6 - Hog's Hill 5km, Redbridge Cycle Circuit. - Wednesday 7th October 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Men's A Team came 2nd with 119 pts with Orion 1st with 39pts.
B Team came 3rd, with Vets team 4th. Ladies came 4th with the Vets team 5th place.
Craig's report:- Well, what can I say, last night's Chingford League race was absolutely awesome, I've not felt so electric before a race in such a long time.

I was planning on walking down, but since I was a tad late setting off, I thought I'd break into a jog and see how far it took me. Needless to say I was nearly at the Cycle Centre by this point, so I slowed down into a walk, before deciding to break into a stride up the hill, just to flex the legs a little.

When I got in I was just admiring the scenery...well, for the most part when I wasn't running I was anyway...entered the hall for registration and got my number and safety pins. Had a nice little chat with Alexandra before the ladies race started, and wished her and the rest of the ladies all the best before they headed off into the darkness.
Before I knew it the race had already started, and everyone was already rocking up the initial hill. All I was doing was my best to cheer our runners on, can't really say much about the race, you'd have to get

Race For Life Half Marathon, Lea Valley Park - Sunday 4th October 2015

Mornington Chasers Regents Park 10km Winter Series - Sunday 4th October 2015

NSPCC Hour Challenge, Lea Valley VeloPark - Sunday 4th October 2015

NSPCC Hour Challenge - 12.4km. Racing the wrong way around! Felt really stong and some really good time splits. So close to doing 8 miles though.

Middlesex 10km, Victoria Park - Sunday 4th October 2015

A very well organised race by Serpentine RC/Middlesex county AA. It was a bit strange to hold the Middlesex 10k in East London but Vikki Park is a good venue. Entry fee £5, water on course plus the results were texted/emailed to you as well. Flat course although a bit on the warm side for me. Fair bit faster than my other two 10k's I have done this year so reasonably happy. Very high standard field. I was below half way. Nice to catch up with everyone from ELR before and after the race.
Grant

Cardiff Half Marathon - Sunday 4th October 2015

Great Scottish Half Marathon - Sunday 4th October 2015

Brussels Half Marathon - Sunday 4th October 2015

Bournemouth Half Marathon - Sunday 4th October 2015

Saltmarsh 75 - Day Two - Sunday 4th October 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Maud's Race Report.Finally I have found enough brain cells to write a race report for the Saltmarsh:
Day One - 7.06, Day Two - 7.04 = 14.10 for 16th place overall and 3rd Lady.

[The Saltmarsh 75 is a 75 mile two-day endurance challenge for solo runners, walkers or relay teams.]

We set out from our hotel early on Saturday morning, myself, Roberto & our support supremo, Trish. We arrived at the start, at a country park in South Woodham Ferrers, collected our numbers, maps & directions and tried not too think too much about the task ahead.
I let Rob disappear into the distance very early on, determined not to start off to quickly, and soon found myself chatting to another man called Rob, who I stayed with for the first 6 or 7 miles. Until he couldn’t keep up with me any more. The River Crouch in the morning mist was beautiful - this was in some ways the most enjoyable bit as it’s so much easier to appreciate the views when you’re not knackered. The second stage took us to the attractive seaside town of Burnham-on-Crouch, where we got to run on some lovely firm, flat concrete - most of the route is rough grassy paths on the sea wall.

‘…out in the Dengie, no one hears you scream…'
This is the tagline on the event website, and refers to the long, lonely third stage - 13.6 miles of isolated, very slowly shifting scenery. By this time the runners had thinned out, and often I couldn’t see anyone else ahead, although the landscape is pancake flat and the mist had cleared, giving panoramic views in all directions. An image that sticks in my memory is of a WW2 observation post beside a dried up drainage channel full of rusty red wild flowers, like a ghost of the Tower of London poppies.
Up until this point I’d got away with just following the runners in front, but as I passed a seasoned campaigner shortly before Checkpoint 3, he advised me to read the directions as you can miss it (he told me later that he’d missed it himself for the third year in a row).
So, half the stages

Saltmarsh 75 - Day One - Saturday 3rd October 2015

Trish Kelly Both safely through 1st CP at 5.2 miles. Rob about 10 mins ahead of Maud. Will he hold that lead.... Early days!
Both safely through CP2 at 14m. Rob storming ahead but both still smiling! They have a long 13m section now to CP3, so toughest part coming up but sun now starting to shine and burning away the fog, so at least they should have nice views! I'm off for breakfast - this crewing malarkey is exhausting!
Rob through at 27 miles, but his Achilles/foot is very painful. Is carrying on and still hopes to finish but it's walk/run for him now. Waiting for Maud. Crewing has hit new levels - I have now had abuse shouted at me due to lack of signage on course, which is clearly my fault!!!
Maud now through 27 miles. Looking strong and still smiling! Right, that's me off to the finish to get the tents up!
Maud has just finished day 1. Superb running. Just waiting for himself, who is in a lot of pain but determined to finish.
Rob now over the finish line. He said **+=#%^*+%%!! I am ever running again and I'm taking up darts! So probably see him on the Sunday run next week then! Currently being tended to by a nice lady medic so that has put the smile back on his face.
Maud HodsonDay one completed - 6.53 running time, so 7 hours ish with stopping at the checkpoints. 38.6 miles. Slow and steady. A Ronseal day - exactly what it said on the tin.
Have beer now.
Roberto Bruni It took 39M, 7.20, to realise that darts is a lot more fun. I will now take a temporary retirement till January. I need a few months to repair feet and get over today.

Our intrepid duo, Maud and Roberto at the start of the Saltmarsh 75!




Could you complete 75 miles of England’s most unique coast line in just 2 days?
That’s the challenge laid down by the Saltmarsh 75, a long distance trail covering the entire coast of the Maldon district, Essex.
Maud did!. Roberto Bruni completed 38 miles on Day 1 but was unable to run on Day 2 owing to injury.


A colourful Maud ready for Day 2!.

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 3rd October 2015

Extremely foggy day at Wanstead Flats, just around the start field but clear around the rest of course. Course pb for Felicity, 3rd in 3 weeks and Claire making an occasional visit. An age grade pb for 2015 for Bernadett also.
Thanks to Scott for volunteering and well done to Clare Emery for winning the shoes for September.
Elsewhere Spencer got his best time 18.50, breaking 19 minutes at Beckton and Sbita a course pb at Valentine. John Healy, a course pb at Brockwell.
Well done to Aaron for his 3rd place at Valentine's in 18.55.
Fastest time of the day goes to Thomas making his first visit to Fulham Palace for 4th place in 16.26.

Elvis Social Night - Thursday 1st October 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

ELVIS 2015 : Final rankings : Men - Sunday 27th September 2015

80 men competed in this year's ELVIS series with 33 doing 5 or more races to qualify for the season end results. 9 competed in all 7 races. The series was won by Thomas Grimes with Patrick, Paul and Alex taking 3rd to 5th places.
Largest attendance for the men was 51 at the Hilly 5 with 47 at Eton Manor.
East London Runners won the Men's trophy with 6pts against Ilford's 8pts with Barking coming 3rd with 15pts. East London men won 4 events with Ilford came back strong by winning the last two events, but not enough to catch up.

ELVIS 2015 : Final rankings : Ladies - Sunday 27th September 2015

The ladies team had 50 runners compete in the series with 14 doing the required 5 to qualify for the final results. Three ladies , Fiona, Diana and Maya did all 7 races. The largest turnout was 30 at the Hilly 5 with 29 at Eton Manor also. Jenny came first overall with 6pts with Karen in 2nd, first V45 and Ava in 3rd place, 1st V35. Sarah was 3rd in the V35 category with Fiona 2nd in the V55 contest. The ladies team won all 7 races to finish with 5pts against Ilford's 10pts. East End Road Runners finished 3rd with 18pts.

Robin Hood Half Marathon - Sunday 27th September 2015

7280 finishers.
Great day at the Robin hood half Today in Nottingham, my second time at the event but my first for the route as it had been changed since doing it last year, a couple of inclines at the beggining but you were then rewarded with the downhills which i chose to enjoy whilst they lasted! Previous to this week i hadnt run in 6 weeks and so was a tad pesamistic in what my time might be, i found it suprisingly comfortable as i ran with a friend for 8 miles and then we ended up separating but managed to keep myself going on my own for the rest but did start to flag at Mile 11.

My watch said 2:11:08 and it wasnt far off as my official result was 2:11:25 which considering my recent lack of training i was more than happy with but cant help thinking about what i could of shaved off had i not had the gap in training!

Anyway a fab Race with beautiful scenerey and fabulous amounts of support! highly reccomended!

Berlin Marathon 2015 - Sunday 27th September 2015

Ealing Half Marathon - Sunday 27th September 2015

4670 finishers.

ELVIS 7 - Valentine Park Charity 5km hosted by East London Runners - Sunday 27th September 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Race Results here - Valentines Park 5k Results available here




ELR Victorious Ladies Team of Ava, Karen and Jenny receiving their prizes from ELR ELVIS Mens Captain Grant Conway after the race!


Spencer Evans Race Report ELVIS 7 Valentine's Park 5k.

Arrived at Valentine's Park like an hour before the race, waiting around to start seem like a long wait. Anyway I had a plan for this race which was to try finish sub 19.20 or even better sub 19. The three main people I was competing with were James Clarke, James Nichols and Scott McMillian as we all run at a similar pace.

I started in the 18 minute pen, the horn sounded and we were off, the start was very busy so I was fighting my way to get further to the front which I managed to just before the first turn onto a wider path. From this point onwards I was feeling strong and confident that that I would at least break 19:20 my finish time at Barking ELVIS 6. After the first lap, I had a glance at my watch time elapsed was 7min 30 and I realised I was ahead of James Clarke, James Nichols and Scott McMillian, so I continued at the same pace the second lap round but just after I had passed the 4km marker, James Clarke was catching me up, in fact to be precise he was right behind me. I then attempted to increase my speed more to keep ahead of him, this worked until I reached the last 800m and he overtook me and come out strong, at this point I knew he has got this today. Then just before finish line I got pipped by James Nichols as he became strong at the end too. I also got pipped right on the finish by Scott McMillian, to be fair he has a strong finish. My finishing time was 19.10 so I was still very pleased with this time as its a course PB I was still very close to my three competitors. Overall today has been a great turnout for East London Runners and great series overall. My target times for the 5k ELVIS races next year will definitely be to try and finish sub 19 mins. Training for this will be starting next Saturday at Parkrun!.

Happy Running!!

Hever Castle Triathlon - Henry VIII (sprint plus) - Saturday 26th September 2015

800m swim 18.26, T1 2.28, 40K cycle 1.20.00, T2 2.40, 8k run 41.38 = 2.25.10
458 finishers.

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 26th September 2015

Mayor's Charity 10k at Forty Hall, Enfield - Sunday 20th September 2015

Congratulations to Thomas who won in a time of 36:10.

Purbeck Marathon - Sunday 20th September 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

The course, with over 3000 feet of climbs, is a predominately off-road Marathon that is both challenging and rewarding. Part of the challenge comes from the fact that the distance is actually slightly over the standard marathon distance at 27 miles – don’t let this put you off, it just means that you can boast to have done ‘More than just a marathon!’

The marathon starts and finishes in Swanage. From the Downs overlooking the beach, it heads towards Durlston Country Park and along the Jurassic coast path before going through the villages of Worth Matravers and Kingston.

London Duathlon, Richmond Park - Sunday 20th September 2015

Duathlon - (10Km - 44Km - 5Km)
Ultra Duathlon - (20Km - 77Km - 10Km)
Half dist (5km - 22km - 5km)

Jonathan's report - Here’s a race report from the London Duathlon, a run-bike-run that took place in Richmond Park on 20 September. Superb organisation, really friendly and supportive marshals – clearly vets at this game given the stupid questions I was asking. These multi-sport activities have such odd rules; all the dos and don’ts of transition were quite bewildering for a novice like me.

With Maya's advice still ringing in my ears – “transition - it’s just an exercise of getting changed”, it was great to meet fellow ELRs Ava and Danny – beaming at 8am! Soon it was time to get ready – all the pros laying out towels and boxes with their kit in. I had two pairs of shoes and a ruck sack. I felt somewhat inadequate. But still I was just there for the experience, I had no expectations. This was mainly because having lost 12 week’s of running in the summer, I wasn’t at all fit enough.

Nine O’clock came and we soon shuffled into pens like a ride at a theme park, and then released to the tune of the pips you get at a slalom downhill ski tournament. We were off – 10K run ahead. I had to pace this, don’t do what you normally do Jonathan – listen to the experts. It was a slow, and very long 1.5 mile climb. I mustn’t rush this.

It was always my intention to visit the park and check the route – was that a good idea or not? When I got to the top of the first climb – I was pleased that I hadn’t – although I still had no idea whether all the climbing was done. Thank fully the rest of the course was downhill. I met a cycling buddy at the 7km marker – that was surprise and really lifted my spirits. He’d cycled down from Bricket Wood to cheer me, so was a real treat – including the gel he dangled like bait for a performing seal.

Anyway, my first ever transition was fast approaching – the course snaked around for what seemed like miles. Would I remember where I left my bike, what if someone has pinched my cycling shoes, were my original concerns, but this was all in the past – I was on a mission. Challenged with going faster than Kylie Minogue in a costume change – I was in and out in a flash – 1min 58 sec. I thought that was quick, but I was still accused of taking too long – shouts of “You’re not supposed to do your hair and make-up!” rung out from the crowd!

So the second leg was underway 44km bike – no drafting rules, just 15 seconds to overtake, and motor cycle marshals on route all made me nervous. Four laps of 11km round the park were ahead, just get your head down and get it done. So I did. My legs were fine I managed the run and bike transition quite well, but there were too many cyclists on the course to avoid drafting at least some of the way. The course was well balanced – a hill at the start and half way with some long fast down hills as well. I think in hindsight I should have tackled this quicker, but knowing a further 5K run was ahead I decided that I would keep it steady. Even so, I was overtaking most, and only overtaken by the guys with the aero wheels and helmets. It was a sporting event for all, but some were taking this very seriously indeed. A highlight for me was climbing Broomfield Hill, and near the top on the first lap stood a Stag, just observing all the lycra whizzing by. I would love to know what he was thinking. Standing just 3 metres away from all these cyclists – it was quite a sight. We briefly made eye contact, but I doubt he’ll remember me.

Soon it was back to the last transition and back to the running. The bike to run transition was by far the hardest adjustment for my legs. The course at this point was mixed with half-duathlon and relay participants, so really hard to gauge whether you are pacing someone like you or someone with fresh legs. After about a mile the jelly legs were gone and to my amazement I had some energy left for strong (by my standards) finish.
So fearful of the rules, with insufficient training I managed my first ever duathlon. I really enjoyed this. Would I come back next year? Most definitely. No goodie bag, but nice bling and a technical T-shirt are always welcome.

Along with Ava and danny, Graham Peacock and Andy Kumar also took part in this event. It was shame that we didn’t all meet at the end. I would recommend this event for next year for anyone wanting to try a multisport event.

Ingatestone 5m - Sunday 20th September 2015

113 finishers.

ITU World Championships. Chicago - Age Group Standard - Saturday 19th September 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

1500m swim 28.32, T1 4.09, 40km bike 1.02.32,T2 3.18, 10km run 51.04 = 2.29.33.
Age Group W35-39
Place (M/W) 392
Place (AC) 62
Place (Total) 1206
Congratulations to Sarah Burns of East London Runners, representing Great Britain (Ladies 35-39) in completing the Triathlon in the ITU World Triathlon Grand Final in Chicago.





I made it. Rough swim, flying bike course and slightly long and hot 10k. Not sure of the time but who cares that was so much fun. So much GB support on route and virtual support from friends and family back home. And of course the other member of the Burns Unit - Mum. Let me at the Bud!

Mile Challenge, Velopark, Queen Elizabeth Park - Saturday 19th September 2015

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 19th September 2015

Sunday Run - Sunday 13th September 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

Bacchus Marathon, Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking - Sunday 13th September 2015

163 finishers.
I think mine should have read "Fiona Critchley is at the Bacchus Marathon drinking! This is a really fantastic run, like a long ELR social run . Brilliantly organised, beautiful route & wine stops every couple of miles. Great run, loved it!It does include 54 mins of paused time wine tasting so pleased with my run time!!!

Pleshey & Essex Half Marathon - Sunday 13th September 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery

392 finishers.
Team results: 1st Springfield Striders 9pts, 2nd East London Runners 42pts, 3rd Ilford AC 43pts.

A BIG well done to our Team of Paul Quinton, Mark Boulton and Alex Day in winning the Silver Medal in the Essex Championships at the Pleshey Half Marathon.



Paul, Mark and Alex with their medals!

Great North Run 2015 - Sunday 13th September 2015

Tom Woods report:- The last time I ran the GNR was back in 2011 , the weather then was horrendous and getting back to Newcastle after the race took as long as the race itself. I remember doing a PB , but being a bit disappointed in not going under 2hrs (2:01).
Earlier this Year got the the chance to run the GNR again , so entered again as a pre cursor to my next marathon coming up in October (Frankfurt).
Arrived in Newcastle on Saturday and it was raining , but was predicted to be cleared up for race Day with clear blue skies and warm temperatures predicted ... yeah right!!
Lo and behold on Sunday the weather was as predicted ,beautiful Day.
Made my way down to the start and first the baggage drop , where a fleet of busses , colour coded to match the running pens , transport your stuff down to South Shields and the finish area.
The starting area of the GNR is massive , unlike London which has 3 separate starting areas , up here in Newcastle it is 1 huge straight line , divided in to 11 corrals and 57,000 runners packed in.
As we wait for the start , there are warm up exercises and announcements made , making the time pass fairly quickly and then we are off on a long gently downhill section leading to the Tyne bridge , a good proportion of this first part is ran under an elevated section of motorway , so Garmins etc may give crazy data , for me , I only look at my GPS at the 5km markers to check my average pace.
Not long after crossing the Tyne Bridge the course starts to climb (gently) for the next 3 or 4 Kim's , around this part , I noticed someone ahead wearing a ELR running vest (Alan Branch) , so caught up and introduced myself.
Considering the vast amount of runners taking part , the course did not feel all that congested ,except at points where we ran through roundabouts , where everyone tries to take the tangents , does it get bunched up.
All big races have something that is unique to the particular event at some part of the course ie Boston and the Citgo sign or Berlin and the Brandenburg Gate , for the GNR it has to be the the final steep downhill followed by the 1 mile run along the coast rd to reach the finish , with the Red Arrows flying overhead.
All in all a great race , which I would recommend to anyone thinking of a half marathon , plenty of hills , both ups and downs , but without any serious gradients , decent medal , T shirt and goody bag at the end , only downside really is getting back to Newcastle which still took longer then running the race itself.
As in 2011 , I managed a PB , but was disappointed not to go under 1:45 , some people are just never satisfied.

Run Through Victoria Park 10km - Sunday 13th September 2015

Run To The Beat 10km - Sunday 13th September 2015

Rat Race, Coast to coast - Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th September 2015

Thanks all! Completed a cracking adventure race (road biking, mountain biking, kayaking, and trail & mountain running) with a friend as a team event. This was a coast to coast race passing through the stunning Scottish Highlands, fro

Stockholm Half Marathon - Saturday 12th September 2015

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 12th September 2015

One first finisher this week with Thomas at Grovelands. Celebrations at Wanstead as three, Craig, Jayne and Fiona all reached there 50th run. Only one course pb this week as Stuart gets quicker each week. But a few more age grade improvements for this year from Stuart, Jayne and Morag.

Essex Way Relay Race - Sunday 6th September 2015

ELR were again unable to field a team for this 62 mile Relay race with 10 Legs starting at Epping Station and finishing at Harlow.

Aaron ran the first Leg of 7.5 miles from Epping to Chipping Ongar. He finished in 11th place and was greeted at the finish line by ELR' Edward Barnard and Frank Brownlie who wererecording the results. ELR and Ilford Ac were hosts of the first leg.

Fosters Law Kent Coastal Half Marathon - Sunday 6th September 2015

314 finishers.
Congratulations to Alex and Pat on their latest running achievement.

Richmond Running Festival Half Marathon 2015 - Sunday 6th September 2015

Andy's report from today's race - andykumar.net/2015/09/06/richmond-running-festival-half-marathon-2015-race-report/

UFD Hackney Marshes Half Marathon - Sunday 6th September 2015

Did this smashing 6 lap, low key local 'community feel' run as part of my training for a Scottish Highlands Adventure Challenge. Whilst it may not have the razzmatazz of a bigger event, it more than made up for in extremely friendly and welcoming volunteers and marshalls. As on the previous occasion I ran this race, finishers were given an excellent goody bag, comprising exactly what you want post run: fresh fruit, a bagel with butter and jam, an energy biscuit, a bottle of water and a lollipop! Essentially, a really nice event- Great fun!
Time: Circa 1h 34m 33s

Harlow 10m - Sunday 6th September 2015

208 finishers.

Spitfire 10km - Sunday 6th September 2015

490 finishers.

Katherine Harris:- Really pleased with the time, well worth it for the medal and I managed to get myself a trophy for being first in my age category too

Kew Gardens 10km - Richmond Running Festival - Sunday 6th September 2015

Regents Park Summer Series 10km - Sunday 6th September 2015

417 finishers.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 10km - Saturday 5th September 2015

parkrun - all venues - Saturday 5th September 2015

Three first finishers this week with Thomas Grimes 17.17 at Groveland's, Thomas Glasock 19.06 at Barking and Karen extended her lead on the age grade chart to 83.08% with 19.42 at Valentine's.
Course pb's for Thomas, Karen, Tricia(Raphael), Spencer & Ashley (Valentine), Aaron, Stuart, Fiona and Paul(Wanstead).
Sarah at long last got her 50 vest, Jayne's only one away after doing her 49th and good to see Julia Wildgoose back at parkrun after a long break.

LGN Run Clubs Inter Advertising 5km - Wednesday 2nd September 2015

642 finishers.

VAC 10,000m Track , Kingsmeadow. - Wednesday 2nd September 2015

Cross Country 2015-2016 - 1st September 2015

Woodford Green Open Event - 3000m - Tuesday 1st September 2015

Moel Fammau Mountain Race, Nth Wales - Monday 31st August 2015

Aaron Williams took part in this 4 mile mountain race in North Wales ON Monday. He came in at 50th position in a time of 42.33.

ELVIS 6: Barking Road Runners 5km, Barking Park - Monday 31st August 2015

Pictures available in Photo Gallery