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Fodac fixture list Click here to see the list of local fixtures the club is aiming to attend.

Gloucestershire Cross Country League fixtures for next season are :
Oct 9 2010  Guiting Power  Bourton RR
Nov 20 2010  Cheltenham  CLC Striders
Dec 11 2010  Gloucester (Blackbridge) Gloucester AC
Feb 5th 2011 Gloucester (Plock Court) Severn AC.

County Championship Race
Thursday 19th August at 19.45
White Horse 5k, Sandhurst, Gloucester
Entry Fee £4.00 on the night

This is the County Championships race and it would be great to see plenty of FODAC vests there!
Christmas tree 2010 Please check out the club races pages for info on this years race to be held at Ellwood on the 19th December.
Gloucester Half Marathon

Two forest athletes managed the long journey to the Gloucester half marathon at Newent on Saturday 24th July 2010 at 6:00pm. This is the fourth time I (Mark Jeffries) has run in this race, each year getting slower. At the end of the race I pressed the stop button on my watch and found I had achieved a p.b. and then even more pleased when I found out from the results, I’d actually run 10 seconds faster than I thought. There were a total of  209 finishers.

Mark Jeffries 84th position 01:41:23

Andy Dallow 89th position 01:42:33

When Rollers met Runners – The 2010 Kymin Dash

It could be said that this years race ‘coincided’ with a rally of Rolls Royces arranged in memory of Henry Rolls one of Monmouth’s favourite sons.   Having seen the following on the organiser’s web site I’m not certain that ‘collided’ isn’t a more appropriate term

“Unfortunately this year some runners took the wrong course.  It transpires that one of our marshals was physically attacked by a motorist and another knocked over by a van, which accounts for their absence in their positions.  Tempers were flared by the congestion caused by the Rolls Royce rally.”

It was a very hot and sticky afternoon start which was delayed by the parade of expensive metal.  This did cause some muttering amongst the competitors but, when we did get off and ran past the stationery auto leviathans, I couldn’t see any Garmin shaped dents.  There were vehicles of all ages, a bit like the runners really who all enjoyed the great reception give by the carnival crowds in the High Street.   I’ve no doubt it helped steel us for the 750 climb and descent that was to follow.  

The route followed a mixture of road, track and field as it wound up the hill to the monument where it seems Nelson engaged Lady H in a somewhat different exercise.  For those in a fit state to appreciate it the views were phenomenal; for those in a less aesthetic frame of mind it was the end of the up and the start of the down.  Release brakes, disengage brain and off we went, all the way back down to the Wye over the bridge, under the bypass, back over the start, past the school to a parkland finish.

When I left to wend my weary way home all the rollers had returned from whence they came and the roads seemed quiet.  Less than two hours ago it seemed that chaos reigned and some idiot motorists had seen fit to vent their frustrations on people doing their bit for a worthy cause.  Like many things it had passed, I hope the sense of achievement of finishing a hard race thirty seconds quicker than last year will linger a bit longer.

Full results will be out on Thursday when I’ll post of our members times and places

Three race reports from Mark Jeffries whilst on holiday for the past two weeks.

Charmouth challenge + fun run Dorset Saturday July 3rd 10

The annual 8 mile fell run and 2 mile fun run are organised by Charmouth primary school with the help of the parents and children. The race starts at the school then makes its way through the village before a mile long ascent where, at the top, I notice a familiar face,  Vicki marshalling, loudly shouting at everyone to turn left after the narrow gate. We then ran over the Jurassic coastline with its spectacular scenery encompassing woodlands, stone tracks, grassland, precarious cliff edge along with hurdles such as stiles and gateways. The hardest part was the final demanding 191 metre ascent to Golden Cap but this was followed by the  final down hill run to the finish where local firemen were waiting with their hoses to cool us down.  This was the second time I’d run this race which I finished in 121st position out of 232 with a time of 1.19.03.

Plympton road runners ‘duck ponds’ 7k 10th July 10

It was the 20th anniversary of this 7k. multi terrain race and I nearly missed it. I’ve got to tell you cus I know Vicki will if I don’t.  I got half way there and remembered I’d left my trainers back at the caravan. This was not a good start and meant that, having returned to get them, got back, found the start, registered and got changed, I had just 5 minutes to warm up before the race began,   It was a nice warm summers evening with the course taking us round the school field before heading off to the duck ponds. The rest of the run was on gravel tracks through the woods and into the local park with steep grassy banks on an awkward left hand camber. We then ran back around the duck pond for the second lap and back to the school for the final dash around the field to the finish. I finished the race in 31.50 seconds in 75th position out of 214 finishers.

   FRAMPTON 10 K  Monday 12th July 2010

We travelled all the way back from Dartmouth with just enough time to set up the caravan in Slimbridge ready to shoot of to Frampton.  It was a nice cool evening compared to some of the recent weather we’ve had and I think that was the reason for a good turn out of runners and spectators. The race started promptly at seven thirty across the green then into the country lanes for a fast and flat 10k. At the finish we were welcomed with cups of ice cold cider.  Thanks to Stroud & District AC for another well organised race which I finished in 45.34 giving me 124th position out of 454 finishers.

Forester Ashley wins Welsh title!! Forester Ashley wins Welsh title!!
 
Ashley Andrews (18) Forest of Dean AC has won the U20 Welsh Athletics Hammer throw title at Carmarthen stadium 10th July 2010. Conditions were quite awful with strong winds and heavy rain but Ash still threw with great technique, speed and power to win the title with a pb of 53.44m. Ashley is now top of the Welsh U20 rankings and continues to perform at a consistantly high level each week. He is now setting his sights the Welsh U20 record of 58.44m, now just 5 metres further than his new personal best. He has the rest of this season and next year to try and achieve this incredible feat. Under the world class coaching of Lorraine Shaw, Ashley has taken his first Welsh title after less than 3 seasons in the sport. Hard work and dedication by both athlete and coach has led to some superb performances this season in both English and Welsh leagues and everything is looking very promising for the future. Ashley hopes to start studying Electronic Engineering at Swansea University later this year where he will no doubt be combining his studies and training for an event he so obviously enjoys. Well done Ash!
 
Aberdare 10Km In only his second outing in a FODAC vest Dave Jones was our only representative at the Aberdare 10K.  This didn't stop him taking 15 seconds off his personal best by finishing in 43.05 making him 95th out of a field of 360.  He said it was a good morning run finishing with a lap of the running track at Aberdare sports centre.  Dave strongly denies any connection between his entry in the race and the opening of a visitor centre at the Welsh whiskey distillery where the run started from!!
Rose Inn Race 3 of 4.  13th July 2010.
A wet and windy day led to a noticably lower turn out for Race 3.  Suprisingly the weather cleared and the wind dropped to give fair conditions.  Roger Morgan and myself kept up the attendance for the FODAC men.  Four FODAC ladies started - Jacki Green, Jackie Wynds, Claire Morgan and Lynne Park but Lynne pulled up at the half way point already well over 15mins and way off any PB time.  On reflection the winning time was no course record, I ran my slowest ever for this event by 2 seconds but with a higher heart rate and Bob Park finished over a minute down an his previous finish time so perhaps the conditions were not that fair after all (lets blame the weather).  Lets hope Roger, Claire or one of the Jackie's put in a good run when the times are published.  Still we all enjoyed a drink afterwards.  With Freek and Sasha (we missed them and Fred today along with a few others) looking good in the Juniors a good turn out on the 10th August for the final race to get a minimum 3 out of 4 scores would be a great end to the 2010 Rose Inn series.
Park Run update Click here to read the latest Park run news including a visit from a founding park runner and Kyran Hales winning streak!
This weeks update by Chris Hawkins

 The Tintern Trot

 Anne Nixon LV50 was the first FODAC runner home finishing 18th in 43.13.  She was followed in 27th place by Martin Steel MV40 in 44.55,  John Linden MV50 28th in 45.03.  Walter Leach MV45 was 48th finishing 48.03 with Peter Short MV 55 coming in 60th with a 48.56.  Then came Michael Melhuish MV40 in 65th place with 49.24 and Jim Storrar MV50 ran in 93rd finishing in 52.44.   In 124th place came John Dow MV50 with 56.18 followed by Lynne Park LV45 in 56.48 and in 149th Peter Covington-Jones MV50 with 1.00.16.

The Devils Chimney

Two weeks after running up and down Ben Nevis (to see if he could) and one week after running a difficult leg in the Cotswold Relay Colin Baker took part in this 10K steep scramble and finished a creditable 50th in 47.32.  He said it was a tough climb up and hairy descent but his recent experiences held him in good stead

Cotswold relay

27th June  it was a bit HOT

The Cotswold Relay - Our team ‘The Forest Boars’ acquitted itself well running through extremely hot conditions across the length of the Cotswold Way.  They finished 26th out of 74 teams overall and 12th out of 18 Senior Mens teams. The star performance came from Pete Lloyd who finished 3rd in his leg which is probably a club record.

The team fell into the ‘Senior Mens’ category because just one of us was under 40.  As well as that Fiona Turner showed tremendous team spirit by taking over the 1st leg as an honorary ‘senior man’ when the original incumbent had to drop out.

We finished the individual legs as follows

Leg 1 Fiona Turner running as a senior man 39th , Leg 2 Walter Leach 35th, Leg 3 Chris Hawkins 45th, Leg 4 Steve Cunliffe 15th, Leg 5 Pete Lloyd 3rd, Leg 6 Chris Moore 38th, Leg 7 Colin Baker 51st, Leg 8 Fred Van Arkel 29th, Leg 9 Brian Griffin 52nd, Leg 10 Martin Steel 24th, Timings were immaterial as each leg was of a different length and difficulty.

Click here to read Chris Hawkins report.

 

Mallards Pike race results A huge thank you to Pete Compton for organising the race last night and to everyone who helped with the organisation and running of the event on the night. thanks also go to Jacqui Wynds for organising the prizes.

Results from Wednesdays race can be found by clicking on the following link

http://results.racetectiming.com/default.aspx?CId=27&RId=21 or for a PDF of FODAC members results including the children's races click here.

Photos from the event can be viewed in the Gallery. Please click here.

Welsh Senior Champs/Commonwealth Games

Hammer thrower Ashley Andrews won his first Welsh Senior Champs/Commonwealth Games trials medal (a bronze) at Cardiff today with a new pb of 46.65m. Ranked 4th going into the competition, Ash threw a great set of throws and moved into 3rd place after the 2nd round. He then threw further each round finished the set of 6 with his pb.  Against older and more experienced athletes, Ash showed such a mature performance way beyond his 18 years. He can now relish the prospect of more medals at the Welsh U20 champs on July 10th.
 
Darren Andrews came 5th with a throw of  34.12m .  This was a bit below his best but a good show for his first Welsh senior champs. He's previously made the British masters standard (34.60m) so has that championship to look forward to in Cardiff on July 4th.

This weeks race snippets Malvern half marathon
Two members ran in the Malvern Half
 

Colin Baker finished in 1.41.14  making him 47th Senior Male and  96th overall.

Glenn Harvey was 74th  MV 40 in 1.55.26 and 270th overall

Rose Inn Race 2 of 4 & Lynnes new PB!

After a day of very changeable weather the conditions for this 4 mile event seemed again pretty much ideal as they were for Race 1.   There was a again a decent turnout from the club including new member Jim Storrar.  Jim ran a little slower than Race 1 but so did Freek, myself and most of our entries as far as I can ascertain as the times are yet to be published.  However the only thing we all really need to know about this particular Race is that Lynne Park ran a PB taking something in the order of 30 seconds off her previous PB to finish in 28:27.   By the time we had all caught our breath and were enjoying a beer outside the Rose Inn the wind had picked up noticably.  The winning times announced also seemed to be slower than Race 1 so this all puts Lynnes PB into perspective as a great time. Roll on July 13th for Race 3 and a chance to get those times a bit quicker again.
 

21 months after damaging her knee ligaments Wendy Lawrence, FV55, raced in the Fairford 10k.  Although she didn't win any prizes she was pleased with a time of  59.43 on a hilly course.

Four member of the club took part in the Dymock Half Marathon with the following results
8th and 1st Male Vet  Tony Marshall in 1.22.37
24th Fred van Arkel in 1.31.59
41st Peter Short  in 1.37.46 and
62nd Mathew Jones 1.44.04

The Darrens Dash is a challenging 8 km hill run, run on the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park.  The run includes a total of 900ft ascent, undulating running along the Offa’s Dyke path and a swift descent to the Olchon Valley.   Proceeds were being raised for Longtown Mountain Rescue Team, The Noah’s Ark Appeal and the Longtown Outdoor Education centre Bursary Fund.  As it was the 5th anniversary of the race they made it a family event with a 2km race for the juniors and a chase the Clown for the little ones.  (I could have entered that one)!  In addition there was climbing, Kayaking, face painting, stilt walking and an inflatable obstacle course.

It was good to be joined by 3 other FODAC runners on this very hot Saturday, Mike (Sadie’s Dad), John and Alex Dow.  We were bused to the start and after a short wait we were off straight up the hill, no preambles.  The climb is totally runable and once on the top a lovely run along the Offa’s Dyke Path.  The descent is very fast down a very rough grassy track, very testing on the old knees.  And yes, yet again I was overtaken on the descent by the same guy who over took me on the Crocodile. Through a farmyard and then up a short steep section of road to a final lap of the finishing field which just about finishes everyone off. I was totally exhausted coming into the finish, thank goodness my juniors weren’t there to see my atrocious running style (except Sadie and she was busy looking out for her Dad).  The 4 of us all had good runs especially Mike as it was a toughy.  Not sure where we all came except I was 1st Lady in 40mins I think, Mike in 46 minutes, John was next and then Alex.

There was free tea and cakes to all runners, I scoffed the biggest and best piece of homemade sponge cake I have ever had, I needed it I can tell you.   John and Alex can vouch for the most delicious homemade ice cream ever.  So who’s coming to join us next year? Ann Nixon

Crocodile 8 race report from Ann Nixon

Another well organised multi terrain race held at Burghill County Primary School.  The race gets its name from the local nickname for Tillington’s beautiful Badnage wood through which the greater part of the race takes place.  The wood looks from a distance uncannily like the body of a crocodile.  The crocodile itself is challenging as it has 105 steps in addition to 13 stiles and kissing gates on route.

FODAC managed a 1, 2 , 3 with Tara stealing the limelight in the Junior race finishing  1st girl and 5th  or 6th overall.  The junior course was 2 laps around the orchard opposite the school, with quite a tricky hill to tackle.

Kim Mazzuca and myself started off together and had to push our way towards the front as we were a little late getting to the start line, not helped by yours truly deciding at the last minute to discard my running vest as it was so hot. Kim seeing another lady in front of us soon set off in hot pursuit leaving me to chase. (Kim was later to regret going off so fast as she was unaware of the 105 steps up the crocodile!)  Shortly before we left the road to climb the crocodile a very welcome hose pipe was spraying those runners who needed a cool down. (Reminded me of the races we did in Bermuda).  The steps were quite steep and even I who rarely walk hills have to admit that I walked a few.  However to be fair they were as high as my knees. (No wise cracks from you guys).  After a couple of flights of steps and almost head butting a couple of runners bums, I managed to catch Kim up and squeezed past.  Once on the top it was a lovely run through the wood with the smell of garlic filling the air.  On the way back down were a couple of very muddy stretches which you could avoid if you kept your wits about you.  The last stretch was on road and I was overtaken by 2 men who I had managed to overtake on the steps, but such is life.  Will have to do some speed sessions!  Along the way there were a few surprises, we had women singing to us outside the church and drums beating at the top of the final climb.  I finished 2nd lady in 58:43 and Kim 3rd in 1:00:07, 23rd and 29th, overall out of 271 finishers.  .

Although the steps are steep the section is short and the run along the top through the woods makes the effort more than worthwhile.  I would recommend this multi terrain race if you are looking for an off road race as it’s fairly local, well organised with plenty of water stations and well supported.  It was certainly much easier that the Black Death Run!

Parkend fun run

A small field lined up at the Cricket pitch in Parkend on a Gloriously Sunny bank holiday Monday, The course was a adventure in itself running passed The Fountain over the road & up and over the Forest of Dean steam railway on there foot bridge up a step path to the village church bathed in the summer sunshine then to the forest tracks towards Whitecroft, turning right we descended to cross the railway through 2 kissing gates & down to the Road which was well marshalled, up into the wood towards bream then through a gate into the CSMA park to the support of the campers some still eating there breakfast in front of there caravans & tents, crossed the site over a style into a sheep field then over a five bar gate passed the Scouts site & along the pavement back into Parkend & the cheering crowd of supports at the finish at the Cricket Club.
 
The over winner was the Forest of Dean Athletics Club Coach Walter Leach in 18.50 & second over all & 1st in the Juniors was the clubs Josh Mathews in a brilliant time of 19.22, other members taking part was Joshua Compton possibly the youngest running at 4 years who was accompanied & possibly slowed down by his father Pete Compton in a little over 40 mins
Latest race reports and up date on park runs special weekend along with other events Please click on race reports on the side menu or click here to read reports on the Berkley 110km, the Bromham may mile and about FODAC runners being sent to Coventry :-)

Click here to read about park runs special weekend and a fixture update

Mallards pike run 16th June

To enter Click here

 The Forest Of Dean Athletic Club are hosting their 5 mile race and fun run at Mallards Pike on June 16th. For those who do not know the area it is a picturesque Forestry Commission run site with lake, walks and cycle tracks

This is an event open to all ages and all abilities and starts are between 7.00 and 7.35pm on Wednesday June 16th.

This year the club are proud to be able to support Hope for Tomorrow which is  a national cancer charity dedicated to helping those with cancer – and their dependents – cope. The charity is doing this through their Mobile Chemotherapy Unit project, which brings vital chemotherapy treatment closer to patient’s homes. We are lucky in being serviced locally at the Dilke Hospital, Cirencester and Ross On Wye.

The Club has also been fortunate in gaining the support of Go Ape, who term themselves a high wire forest adventure and have one of their courses at Mallards Pike. They have offered  tickets to be presented to two of our run winners.

Our other supporters are also local companies, Black Sheep Sports, who are also involved in promoting sporting  events, especially triathlon and cycling. They are providing us with their state of the art timing chips.

Water Coolers Direct have donated sports water bottles for the fortunate winners.

It’s definitely an evening not to be missed, so come along and enjoy a sociable run

Rose Inn Race 1

Rose Inn 2010 Series Run 1.

The 1st run of the 2010 Rose Inn (Redwick) series on Tuesday 11th  May saw the biggest turnout from the club for years with 4 ladies and 5 gents  all making a good show for the club.  In near perfect conditions there was also a good turn out overall with 189 runners finishing.  The flat 4 mile course is made up of two laps of two miles and is a good test of pace for the runners and with the race starting by the pleasant country pub, passing it at the mid-point and finishing right outside also makes it a great event for spectators too - especially on a warm summers evening.  Not only was it a good turnout but we had some excellent results with Freek Van Arkle finishing 6th overall in 21:58 and 2nd Junior Male, Sasha Herman finished in 25:24, 22nd overall – both were running this event for the first time.  Some of the old hands were next with Walter Leach 56th in 26:22, followed by Fred Van Arkle 61st in 26:55 (a solid run after his exertions in the Tewksbury half on the Sunday before) and Andy Dallow 69th in 27:34.  Lynne Park lead the ladies home just 3 seconds off her PB in 97th with a time of 28:56 chased by Jackie Green (31:37, 141st), Claire Morgan (33:22, 156th) and Jacqui Winds (33:32, 158th).   The race is generally the 2nd Tuesday in each month and the remaining three are on Tues 8th June, Tues 13th July, and Tues 10th August, all at 7:30 with entry on the day.  A drink from the bar is included in the entry fee so overall it is a good value evening and a good workout as part of your training plan.

Mallards pike race GO APE at Mallards Pike has kindly donated some prizes 

and we will be supporting the Hope for Tomorrow Charity

click here to visit the Go Ape site

Click here for an entry form and more information

Click here for a Multimap map showing the start.

A busy weekend for FODAC

Tewkesbury Half  Marathon Sunday 9th May 2010 from Steve Cunliffe

About 1100 souls braved the north easterly breeze through the flat lands of north Gloucestershire on Sunday, amongst them 3 runners from the Forest of Dean. Contrary to popular myth, the race organisation looked pretty spot on, with only a slight delay due to congestion in the car park at the start. Signs and traffic control both very good and the drink stations well organised. The breeze actually worked quite well as it was against for the first 8 miles or so and then with the runners when the legs tired at the end. Apart from the breeze there is nothing else to exercise the mind because apart from the odd railway bridge this course is flat flat. Most certainly high pb potential. As far as the running went, Steve Cunliffe was first back for the Forest in 1.26.55 ( 61st and 1st MV55), Fred van Arkle next in 1.30.32 ( 98th and 17th MV45). The best however was reserved for last where Colin Baker finally broke the 1.40 barrier, smashing his pb with a 1.38.18 for 213th place. Whilst still off their bests, both Steve and Fred felt happier with their times as they continue on the road back to full fitness.Also of note, Kieran Hale won the 5 miles race by over 4 mins. Don’t feel quite as bad about losing to him in the Park Run now!!

From Mark Jeffries

It was a wet, windy and cold start to the morning of the 26th Great West Run Half Marathon, 5k race and family fun run held in Exeter. The half marathon consists of 1 lap of Exeter arena, then on to two laps of Pinhoe road and then into Exeter city centre.

A great race for all the family to do. People cheering you all the way around, also bands playing in the streets and the city centre. There are ample water stations, sponge stations and plenty of bowls of jelly babies. This has been my third time of running this race and each year it gets much better and my time gets faster. This year I managed a pb for the great west run in 1hr 42mins and 55 secs, making me 50th in my category and 423 out of 2103 finishers.


From Anne Nixon
 The Black Death Run 10 mile off road run was held at Combe Sydenham Country Park, near Taunton, in Somerset.  Not sure of the origin of the races' name but there were several Grim Reapers about.   The race was started by a Grim Reaper and to the sounds of a Samba Band which could be heard on and off during the race depending on what part of the course you were on. If you are after a good hill session then this is the race for you!!!!!! I lost count of the number of times we went up , only to be directed downhill, and then back up only to go back down, You get the picture!  Runners World said "All those hills, coupled with stunning scenery, add up to the perfect cross-country adventure".  What scenery?  I was too busy pushing up the hills and trying to hold off those annoying men who walk the steep bits only to come flying past you on the descent.  If you thought you had a good sense of direction then this course would have tested it to the limit.  Not only did we go up and down but we traversed the hills in all directions crossing the waters stations several times.  I don't normally drink when racing but grabbed several cups on my way round, must having being trying hard!  The course was very well marked, which must have been a challenge in itself, and well marshalled.  The best sight for me was the 9 mile marker as we had been told that it  was all down hill to the finish and thank god it was, my little legs were knacked.  I would recommend this race as a challenge not for those who like a flat run.  The event was very well organised, way marked and supported.  I would definitely do it again.  The results were not fully up when I left, but I'm happy to say I had a good run and was 1st Lady in a time of 1:22:27 and 17th overall.  Must have been at least a 100 runners.  Incidentally there was also a 3 mile fun run, a Music Festival, a Hog Roast  and plenty for the children to do, Chalky's Circus Workshop to name but one.
County track and field results  2 senior FODAC competed at the county championships. Darren won all 3 of his throws in his age group. He finished 1st senior man in both the Shot and Discus. Sarah was competing in only her 3rd competition ever. She has been training long and is still throwing from standing. With her partner Darren helping it's sure not to be long before she will be challenging for honours. She is the clubs 1st female Hammer thrower and therefore club record holder for the event. Ashley Andrews who competes as an U20 was beaten into 2nd by his training partner Tim Williams of Gloucester AC. It was not a bad results as Tim is ranked 3rd Nationally.  All the junior results are on the junior site (see top left)
U20

2 Ashley Andrews JM 46.38

S&VM Discus
1 Darren Andrews (M35) 30.38

S&VM Shot

1 Darren Andrews (M35) SM 9.39

SL Hammer

6 Sarah James 13.76

S&VM

1 Darren Andrews (M35) 35.10

Full results are available here.

FODAC Park run report

My first Park Run by Chris Hawkins

The first thing to say here is that it’s free (apart from the delicious tea and cakes supplied at the end which are well worth the price).  All I needed to do was fill out a small form at parkrun.com (no wwws), print the bar code that arrived be email, take it with me and present myself at the start opposite the college at 9 am.   In the words of that  Meerkat “Simples”.

The 5K course is flat but needs care because of ruts, mud and tree roots which all adds to the character of the run.  City folks are welcome to their smooth tarmac and manicured grass tracks, this is still real Forest running with the friendly atmosphere enhanced by mix of ages and abilities and even the odd dog dragging its owner round (wonder if it had a bark code). 

The signs and coloured streamers marking the course didn’t prevent a couple of wrong turnings (from me at least) but nobody got hopelessly lost and everyone made it to the finish.  Now this is where the really clever bit comes in.  As I crossed (staggered) across the finishing line I was handed a token which, after getting my breath back, I presented to a really nice lady who zapped it along with my bar code.   Later on that day I  get an email with my times and a link to a full list of runners.

One word of advice though. This time of year the mossies round the area are vicious little whatsits  so if, like me, they see you as lunch, use some bug spray.

FODAC’s wandering half marathoners

 On the weekend when most attention was focused on the London Marathon Aileen and Claire took the road north to join 5500 other runners in the Sheffield Half Marathon.   Following trips to Tregaron in west Wales and to Liverpool this was their third half this year plus they even found time for the first ever Kilo-marathon (26 kilometres) in Nottingham.

  The race started in the Don Valley International Stadium at 9.30 am and, contrary to the discouraging forecast, the sun warmed the runners as they hit streets.  The traffic free course took them through the city centre on roads lined with enthusiastic spectators to return to the stadium for a grandstand finish.   Both our ladies started well but Aileen was feeling under the weather and had to give up at 4 miles. Claire kept going and finished in a very respectable 2.00.21 

Their previous times this year were;

Ras Cors Caron (Tregaron) - Claire 2.03.  Aileen 2.11

Liverpool – 2.01 for both

Kilo-marathon in Nottingham - 2.41for both  

 

Marathon runners
London Marathon
 
Four runners from the FODAC took part in Sunday's 30th London Marathon.  Marathon first timer Vicki Morgan was first back in 3:55:45 followed closely by Soudley resident Chris Hawkins (V55) in 4:02:09.  A veteran of many marathons, Graham Welch (V65) completed the course in 5:08:15 while the Club's new Vice Chairman Peter Compton (V40) also competing in his first marathon finished in 5:36:10.  Pete had tried to enter the marathon 4 times previously without success, so was thrilled to win a club place in the club's ballot.  As well as using the marathon as a target to improving his fitness he was also raising money for the Friends of Bream School.

Read Chris Hawkins report here

Park Run Park run is up and away and is so far a big success. Click here to read this weeks report.

and click the link to see the BBC news report

http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/gloucestershire/hi/things_to_do/newsid_8637000/8637453.stm

Mallards Pike Race Entry Form

16th June 2010

The 2010 Mallards Pike Race Entry Form with updated times and prices is available here. The poster for the race is available here please distribute at local races etc
Park Run is ready to launch! The Forest of Dean park run being organised by Dave Lucas is ready to officially launch on 24th April. Volunteers are needed to run the event and help organise. Please click here to find out more information.
VLM Training Click here to read reports on two of our runners build up to the big day.
Fancy a go at coaching? The children's Saturday training is going very well with nearly 30 coming each week, but we could do with 1 more helper to look after the U11 group if you can lend a hand 9 till 10.30 on a Saturday morning you would be very welcome.
Sport Relief Mile Vicki Jefferies Sport Relief Mile report I've completed the event in a respectable 49mins 10 seconds. 2 seconds
in front of Mark. We've got over £300 in sponsorship and would be glad of any more. Please check out the website for details on how the day
went.
http://www.mysportrelief.com/betsiebadger?SID=96828
Forest of Dean Half Many thanks to Vicki Jefferies for trawling through all of the results to find the FODAC runners.

 

Results for FODAC members:

Earl Smith  1:27:52  58th (msnr)

Fred Van Arkle 1:33:00 126th (mv40)

John Linden  1:33:14  130th (mv50)

Peter Short  1:37:46  206th (mv50)

Walter Leach  1:38:30  216th (mv40)

Andrew Dallow  1:41:02  282nd (mv40)

Mark Jeffries  1:44:52  396th (mv40)

Vicki Morgan  1:52:27   653rd (fv35)

Colin Baker   1:53:06  670th (msnr)
Matthew Jones  1:53:11  675th (mv40)

Chris Moore  1:53:29   686th (mv50)

Chris Hawkins  1:54:24  717th (mv50)

Kathy Griffin  2:00:28   926th (fsnr)

Nicola Hall  2:04:47   1101st (fv50)

Brian Griffin  2:08:11   1197th (mv50)

Peter Compton  2:26:44  1580th  (mv40)
Graham Nicholson 2:36:33  1664th (mv60)

  

A new start and finish with an altered course and a lot more runners.   Would the race live up to expectations? 

 

To find out and read Chris Hawkins race report Click here.

Rhayader 2010

It’s the middle of Wales in the middle of March and rain drops cover the weather map.  Maybe not the most encouraging scenario for a race that includes some really wild and woolly high ground but the running gods looked kindly on us, allowing temperatures to creep into double figures while permitting only an occasional light drizzle dampened proceedings. Click here to read the rest of the report.

 

The Grizzly

The Grizzly bears all

The Grizzly is one of those iconic races well known within the running community but little heard of elsewhere.  That’s unless you live in the little sea side town of Seaton in east Devon where it is a major calendar event bringing in people from all over the country in what would otherwise be a quiet weekend in early March. for race report click here

Park Run trial. The first trial Park run was held on Saturday click here to read more and get involved.
Castle Coombe 10Km Race by Victoria Jefferies and Kidderminster report

CASTLE COOMBE CHILLY 10K

 

Two forest athletes made the trip to Castle Coombe race circuit on a day that weather forecasters predicted heavy rain and high winds. Maybe the race should have been called ‘the wet and windy 10k’. I don’t know what happened to the high winds or heavy rain as the weather was typical for Castle Coombe, drizzle, cold and windy on one corner. Earl Smith was first home in a magnificent 8th place in a time of 0:39:07.074 followed by Mark Jeffries in 68th place with a time of 0:48:16.517. There being a total of 168 entrants.  Another well organised race by DB Max, CC comes highly recommended. Maybe see you at the next two races organised for 15th August and 21st November. www.dbmax.co.uk/store/events

 

You can sponsor Victoria for her sport relief challenge at

http://www.mysportrelief.com/betsiebadger?SID=96828

 

Ladies success in Kidderminster

 While the FODAC men were at Castle Coombe, FODAC ladies Anne Nixon and Lynn Park drove north to Kidderminster for the Treat 8 Multi Terrain race.  Like the Castle Coombe pair they experienced wet and miserable weather, but despite the conditions both had excellent races.

 Anne continued her return to form by taking 1st Lady, as well as 1st V50 (19th overall) in 54.40 with Lynn Park 4th Lady and 2nd V45 in 1:02:51 (39th overall).  There were 79 finishers

Dates for your diary... AGM is planned for Tues 20 April at 8.00pm at Gamekeepers Inn, Five Acres it would be lovely to have some new faces involved.

Wednesday 16 June at 7.00pm for Mallards Pike Summer race

Stroud and district athletic club race programme available here

Dave is hoping to get a park run course going at 5 acres check back here for details and finally......

June 6th race for heroes in Swindon www.runforheroes.org.uk

Glos Champs Cross Country Click here for final cross country positions.
Fancy trying the sport relief mile? Use the link opposite to help you find your nearest mile. http://www.sportrelief.com/the-mile
St Valentines day at the Beach
 The shone on the romantic couples who promenaded along Weston sea front on Sunday, they were joined on the beach by over 1200 runner eager to take on this years Tough Ten Challenge.
 
The course Started on the beach in the shadow of the Pier now under construction, along the promenade lined with supports & well wisher, through wood land up over a steep headland through Weston's sticky mud & back along the beach to the finish.
 
Earl Smith (575) was the first home in 1.04.07 followed by Ann Nixon (1160) at 1.06.14 claiming 2nd Lady over all & 1st in the age group,
then Mark Jeffries (318) in a very creditable 1.17.32 followed by Graham Wech (311) iin 1.44.04, Graham is training for this year London Marathon.
 
The 1 Mile fun run was the first outing of the year for the Forest Club youngest athletes. First back was Sadie Melhuish (2231) in an incredible 7.16 claiming 2nd lady, then 7 yr old Jenson Coppen (2154) in 9.30. followed by William Compton (2235) & Danielle Hansford (2253) in 9.44 Followed by U9 coach Peter Compton (2236) also training for the London Marathon.
Click here for results and full report
Final Glos X Country results Click here for the mens results

Click here for the womens results

Looking for a new opportunity?

Would you like to be involved in helping to run FODAC?

Your Club Needs You!!
OK, you can run, throw or jump - that's brilliant!  But can you also spare an hour or so every couple of months to join the FODAC committee?  
The AGM is fast approaching and we want some new Committee Members with plenty of enthusiasm and ideas!  No previous experience necessary.  If you are interested in joining the committee at the forthcoming AGM please contact Fiona Turner, Dave Lucas or Denise Rees for further information.

 
Severn AC upcoming races Many of our athletes have expressed an interest in the upcoming Severn AC races click here for details
This weeks news report
Pittville Park, Cheltenham, 6th February 2010
 Despite the weather induced disruptions to this season's Cross Country fixtures, the FODAC again fielded two senior teams in Saturday's final fixture of the season held at Pittville Park, Cheltenham.
 
In the Ladies 6K race Anne Nixon (V50) was first back for the team in 11th position in 24.57.  In form Lynne Park was next back in 52nd in 29.22.  (Lynne was also awarded the LV45 bronze medal for the County Cross Country championships).  Vicky Morgan took a break from her London marathon training to help the team, and was placed 83rd in 32:24.  Jackie Green and Jenny Green were 87th & 88th respectively in 33.16 and 33.43.  There were 104 finishers in the 6K race. The team was placed 15th overall and 8th Vets team. 
 
For the senior men in the 10K race Tony Marshall (V45) was first back in 32nd position is 35.01.  Other results: Steve Cunliffe 90th (39.05), Fred van Arkel (108th) in 40.43; Colin Baker (128th) in 42.50; Chris Hawkins (156th) in 47:57 and John Dow (159th) in 48:55.  There were 166 finishers.
 
The men's team finished 18th and were placed 12th vets team.
 
Success for Forest Ladies
 Veteran FODAC club member and junior coach, Anne Nixon, started the year well with a win at the McCain Cardiff Cross Challenge held on Sunday 17th January 2010 at Blackweir Park, near the River Taff just north of Cardiff.  Competing in the 6.5 km course Anne (V50) was first lady in a time of 25:02.   
 
Anne followed this with an excellent performance at the Midlands Veterans race at Droitwich a week later, where she finished 2nd overall and Lynne Park won silver in the V45 category in the same race.  This success combined with Lynne's bronze at the County CC championships has signalled a return to form for both Forest ladies, which Lynne is hoping to use to good effect in the forthcoming 6-Stage road relays at Sutton Park on the 20th March
Cross country results click here for this weekends results
Gloucester AAA County Championships. A day of outstanding performance for FODAC
U11 Boys Its hard to believe that this entire team is made up of new club athletes or that many of these athletes were running their first cross country race. The future looks good in the hands of James Piercy (who claimed the individual silver medal), Josh Mathews (who claimed the individual bronze), Harry Wise, Charles Heawan, Sam Wallis Ashley Parcell and Rory Gordon. Forest of Dean AC won the u11 boys team silver medal 

u11 Girls Lauren Wallis had a particularly fantastic race, she beat all her rivals some for the first time ever, to claim the gold medal to become the u11 County Champion. Bailey Summers, Katie Kersey and Tara Sladen finished out of the individual medals but together with Lauren they brought the team home in the gold medal position to make the Forest of Dean AC the u11 girls team county champions.

u13 boys Andrew Evans, Connor Creed, Josh Dowle were up against it in this age group, with only Connor being among the older athletes, they still managed to claim the team bronze medal though.

u13 girls The team led by Emily Dowle, (who claimed the individual silver medal), along with Phoebe Crawley, Sadie Melhuish and Laura Taylor combined to win the overall gold medal to make the Forest of Dean AC the u13 girls team county champions.

u17 boys  Freek van Arkle, got into a real battle with a Cheltenham athlete but he managed to claim the gold medal and to claim his first County Championship.

u17 girls Eleanor Dow was once again the lone Forest of Dean AC athlete. She finished just outside the medals.

Results for Lliswerry 8
4 of us took to the freezing Gwent Levels with the following results;-
 

Individuals

Race position     Name              Time  Category    Position

110                      Peter Short      54:19 MV55        4

 

128                      Mike Evans      55:21 MV50      13                

217                      Chris Hawkins  62.06 MV55      14                

225                     Chris Moore      63.06 MV55       17