Apologies for the lack of news recently but here (finally) is a round up of events and races ending 2007.
Suicide is Painless?
18th of November saw a large contingent (19) of Stourbridge runners tackle the ever delightful Suicide Six(ish). Weather conditions not the best this year, with a constant drizzle, freezing winds and if I remember correctly even a spot of sleet, meant the going was a little tough. Normally my favourite winter race, I found it hard work this year not helped by the fact that the water crossing (I am sure) was much deeper meaning I was wading through freezing water up to mid thigh, totally draining the energy from me (and colour by all accounts) and therefore finishing a disappointing one minute slower than last year. First home for the club was Matt Raden (40.25) in overall 5th place followed by Simon Link (40.40) who took an impressive ducking at the water crossing (check out the photographs on DK website) Louise Collins was first lady home (50.31). Ingrid and Jackie added a touch of sparkle to the proceedings by sporting very fetching fairy outfits, complete with wands!!! Photographs courtesy of Roger S to be uploaded shortly in the Photo section.
Birmingham and Midlands Cross Country (Race 2)
1st December saw the second Birmingham (men’s) and Midland (ladies’) XC league event at Coventry, which was an excellent turn out again for Stourbridge with 16 men and 7 ladies’ taking part. A huge ‘big-up’ to ‘two-laps Malc’ and Pete Cash for turning up and running, you know you loved it really! What better way of justifying chocolate biscuits and the odd pint is there! Conditions were fine despite a chilly wind towards the end of the men’s race.
Cardigan Cracker (2nd December 2007)
Two members Ian and Joan Clarke tackled this tough fell race with Joan finishing in an impressive 2hrs dead and Ian following in 2.49.
North Staffs Cross Country (8th December 2007)
Stourbridge ladies XC team ended the year on a high scooping first place in their division in the North Staffordshire Cross Country League beating their nearest rivals by 99 points. This means next year they will be competing in Division 1. The team, who took part in four races, with the final race taking place under extreme weather (and course) conditions in Leek were, Louise Collins, Joan Clarke, Nikki Davies, Dawn Bishop, Greer Batty, Ingrid Cain, Siobhan Haden and Ros Elcock. Joan also won her age category for the season. The men’s team also were also placed well: about mid table with solid performances by all (sorry the results have now been temporarily removed)
Sneyd Xmas Pudding Run (9th December 2007)
Following the previous days excitement 15 members were brave enough to set out again into the weather to take part in Sneyd Xmas pudding run: 10 miles of Black Country roads just outside Walsall. With the mile markers slightly out and a distinct lack of energy in legs it was a bit tough in places – thanks to Ingrid for dragging me round and keeping me entertained. First home for the club was Simon Link in 57.51 followed by Kevin Burke (59.46) who also won his age group and first lady was Louise Collins, also winning a prize and securing her first place in the Ladies Anniversary League, with Dave Rose hot on her heels securing his lead position in the men’s league.
Telford 10k, Mortimer Forest 10 and Turkey Trot (16th December 2007)
and finally..... 16th December 2007 saw the club splintered across the region in a variety of races on this busy weekend.
7 Members opted for a quick dash in the fast and competitive Telford 10k with Matt Raden leading the team home in 34.21 followed by Dave Rose(38.01), Mike Anslow (40.15) with Dave Haden and Louise Collins neck and neck at 41.09 Laurence LL (45.32) and Siobhan Haden (51.27). Meanwhile over in Mortimer Forest 3 members opted for the tough 10 mile multi terrain race; a real test of mind over matter in this roller coaster style race of steep ascents and descents. Pete Walters was first home for the club in 1.27, with Joan Clarke finishing in 1.43 and Ian Clarke in 1.51.
And last, but by no meant least was the Wolverhampton Turkey Trot a pleasant 5 mile race starting at Aldersley Stadium. First home for the club was Kelvin Halliday in 35.56 with first lady Elaine Chambers ‘trotting’ over the line in 43.26. Also running was Liz Spooner ( 43.42) Angela Farley and Jean Wilkes (48.38) lovely to see you still racing ladies, Mel Williams 48.58 and bringing the team home John Harris in 49.00.
Well that’s all for 2007 – I will catch up with 2008 shortly (Ros)
