Time Trials in Albert Park, Middlesbrough - There is a weekly 5km time trial takes place in Albert Park Middlesbrough. This is on an accurately measured course, completely within the boundaries of the park and best of all is totally free ! The run takes place from the visitor centre every Saturday morning at 9am. To take part you only need to register on-line once, no later than the Friday before your first run and thats it - you need never register again.

All results are posted on the website later the same day and you even get an e-mail telling you your own result. It also stores your previous run times for you.

Durham Dales Challenge, Jane Tomlinson Run for All 10k, Burn Valley Half Marathon, Osmotherly Phoenix, Thorpe Edge Festival 10k Race 12 in the Quakers Club Championship saw eight members travel to Wolsingham to tackle the 16 mile option in this year’s Durham Dales Challenge. The first Quaker to finish was Nick Watson with a time of 2:49. Maximum points went to Dave Thompson, who finished with Jose Mediavilla in 2:54. Ian Scott, just behind them in 2:57, claimed 49 points and, in the absence of Peter Smith, leapt to the top of the Championship. Joerg Putzer made it round in 3:14 followed by Anthony Corbett and Michael Joyeux, who finished together in 3:27. Danny Gordon was the final Quaker home, finishing in 3:58. The veteran, who took the 50 points in the 2007 event, had to settle for 46 this year, but looks solid in third place in the table. Three other Quakers opted for the 28 mile route (results to follow).

Carol Penney joined 11,000 runners on the streets of Leeds, taking part in the Jane Tomlinson Run for All 10k. She finished the race in 58:43, highly recommending the event. Pre-registration for the 2009 run has already opened.

Saturday’s Burn Valley Half Marathon began in torrential rain, which then eased to provide decent running conditions for the 275 entrants. Two Quakers ran the testing 13.1 mile course, held on hilly rural lanes around Masham. Alasdair Tatham finished 33rd in 1:33:38 and Diane Vaughan, a first-timer at the event, came 145th in 1:52:54. Alasdair unfortunately started quarter of an hour late and ran a course personal best time of 1:18:14, which would have given him 3rd place in the race.

Meanwhile, Dave Thompson, in preparation for this weekend’s 42 mile Lyke Wake Race, was finishing the 26 mile Osmotherly Phoenix. The heavy rain, which arrived at the halfway mark, added to the challenge, but failed to prevent him recording a respectable time of 5:05.

On the following day, Peter Rowley took part in the Thorpe Edge Festival 10k. Unable to find a suitable local race, he headed to Bradford where 107 runners turned up to brave the pouring rain. Peter completed the undulating circuit in 48:55, to finish 57th.

Summer Coastal Road 5k Records tumbled at last Wednesday’s Summer Coast Road 5k. On a warm and windy night at Redcar, Ian Archbold finished 7th in 16:51 to take Wayne Bramley’s male over 40 club record. The corresponding ladies’ record also fell, with Diane Vaughan clocking 22:05 to finish 99th, ending Julie Giblin’s two year reign. With Championship points up for grabs, there was another large turnout from the club, with 22 Quakers amongst the 165 competitors. Peter Smith (42nd, 19:11) followed Archbold home with Dave Whittle (46th, 19:23), Darren Park (63rd, 20:12), Michael Joyeux (70th, 20:33), Ian Scott (73rd, 20:37), Damien Wynne (84th, 21:00), Phil Rutter (89th, 21:22) and Dave Thompson (92nd, 21:36). Jez Makin (103rd, 22:15) finished ten seconds behind Diane Vaughan with Peter Rowley (106th, 22:35) and Sarah Wilson (118th, 24:09), the second Quaker lady on the night. William Harris (121st, 23:48) was followed by Vickie Wilson (126th, 24:09), Bev Snook (127th, 24:09), Sandra Park (136th, 24:54), Jeff Marriott (141st, 25:07), Anthony Corbett (151st, 26:00), Gillian Harris (152nd, 26:11), Diane Adkins (158th, 27:37) and Jill Wallis (159th, 28:15).

In the Championship table, Ian Scott closed slightly on leader Peter Smith. Danny Gordon remains third, Peter Rowley is fourth and Darren Park fifth. Diane Adkins moves up to ninth place, leading the ladies’ challenge.

Blaydon Race, Swaledale Marathon, Newton Aycliffe 10k Alasdair Tatham finished 22nd out of 3,500 competitors at the popular Blaydon Race, with a time of 31:58. He was one of several Quakers who were fortunate to gain entry to the Tyneside event, which reached its capacity in less than 24 hours. On a warm evening, Jem Wynne covered the 5.9 miles in 39:18 to finish 246th followed by Damian Wynne (558th, 43:09) and Jon Eccles (586th, 43:25). Diane Vaughan was the ninth F40 lady over the line, finishing 626th overall in 43:52. The next Quaker was Peter Rowley (680th, 44:22) with Richard Hughes (947th, 46:36), Robert Kirby (1360th, 49:38), Lee Coles (1399th, 49:51) and Bill Frankland (3047th, 63:43).

Six Quakers took part in this year’s Swaledale Marathon, which was blessed with fantastic weather. Rob Towns and Annette Clarke both completed the hilly 23 miles in 4:10, finishing 48th and 49th from a field 467 participants. Jez Makin came 131st in 4:51 with Richard Payne 227th in 5:32, Anthony Corbett three places behind in 5:34 and Stuart Hardcastle 261st in 5:47.

The Newton Aycliffe 10k was held on the following day and attracted a good turnout from the club. Excellent organisation made up for the lack of scenery as 263 runners made their way around two laps of the housing estate course. Alasdair Tatham was the first Quaker, taking fourth place in 33:32. Ian Scott finished 17th overall and was the first M50, with a time of 36:56. Peter Smith was 46th in 40:48 with Graham Park (61st, 42:36), Rob McSherry (69th, 43:18), Dave McLachlan (77th, 43:49), Dave Thompson (85th, 44:22) and Peter Rowley (93rd, 45:01), completing his third race of the week. Diane Vaughan (112th, 45:46) led home the Quaker ladies followed by Richard Hughes (121st, 46:34), Paul Quinn (176th, 51:27), Melanie Newton (180th, 51:42), Sarah Wilson (190th, 52:35), Simon Collett (191st, 52:49), Jeff Marriott (192nd, 52:59) and Alan Prest (234th, 57:39).

NYSD, Tees Forest Trail Ian Archbold was back on the track at the recent NYSD meeting in Darlington, finishing fourth in the 3000 metres event. His impressive time of 9:33.8 at the Eastbourne Complex set a new Quakers club record in the M40 category, previously held by Graham Park.

Acklam Grange School was the venue for the third race in the Tees Forest Trail Series. Steve Snook was the fourth M45 runner to finish the 5k event, taking 24th place overall in 19:32. Peter Rowley, having ran the Blaydon Race three days earlier, did well to finish 69th with a time of 23:20. Bev Snook, running with fond memories of cross country racing on the course, led home the Quaker ladies, finishing 82nd in 24:39. Julie Whinn was 102nd in 27:50 followed by Diane Adkins, 107th in 28:37 and Jill Wallis, 110th with a time of 29:05.

Allendale 8, Northern Runner Summer Series - Ossy Oiks, Wharfedale Off-Road Marathon, Grasmere Gallop, Race for Life In the Club Championship, Peter Smith stretched his lead to 30 points over his nearest rival, Ian Scott, with an impressive run at the Allendale 8. Smith finished 23rd in the men’s results with a time of 55:23, earning him his fifth 50 point prize of the season. On a warm and sunny afternoon, seven Quakers turned out for the hilly event, near Hexham, which forms part of Allendale village fair. Numbers were down on previous Championship races, possibly due to the location and also perhaps race fatigue, with many runners having completed the Edinburgh Marathon only six days earlier. Stuart Hardcastle (34th, 57:55) was the second Quaker home and a major-mover in the table, leaping seven places to 6th. Ian Scott (39th, 59:25) held on to second place in the Championship with Danny Gordon (60th, 1:06:39) closing slightly in third. Richard Payne (61st, 1:06:58) finished just behind Danny with Anthony Corbett (72nd, 1:15:36) and Alan Prest (73rd, 1:22:47).

The fourth fell race in the Northern Runner Summer Series took place last week. Sheepwash, near Osmotherly was the destination for four resilient Quakers on a sodden Tuesday evening. Stuart Hardcastle completed the Ossy Oiks race in 72 minutes, to finish 56th. He was followed by Richard Payne (67th, 80:23), Jez Makin (74th, 96:00) and Danielle Davis (75th, 96:00).

Two Quakers took part in Saturday’s Wharfedale Off-Road Marathon, at Threshfield. On a warm, humid day, Jem Wynne completed the 25 miles in 4:12:21 to finish 50th in a field of 96 runners. Dave Thompson, no stranger to tough long- distance events, followed in 73rd place with a time of 4:38:38.

On Sunday, Peter Rowley joined 326 other runners at Ambleside for the Grasmere Gallop. The 7.3-mile race, held over roads, timber trails and footpaths was, as to be expected in the Lakes, rather undulating. He finished 126th with 60:02 on his stopwatch, but was somewhat irked to be given 60:44 by the officials.

Finally, a pat on the back to the many club members who were on duty at South Park on Sunday morning, marshalling the Race for Life event.

Edinburgh Marathon, Fox & Hounds Race A large contingent from the club headed north for this year’s Edinburgh Marathon. A stiff north-easterly wind, blowing off the sea was a major feature of the race, most noticeable on the outward leg along the Firth of Forth. Despite the windy conditions, there were some impressive finishing times, with Charles Bogg (638th, 3:21:21) and Nigel Slater (847th, 3:27:27) both recording new personal best times. Six of the Quakers were making their debut at the distance. Danielle Davis (1852nd, 3:46:43), Michael Joyeux (3442nd, 4:11:44), Wendy Colling (4010th, 4:22:11), Sarah Beadle (6134th, 5:26:49), Gill Wallis (6278th, 5:38:35) and Claire Kelly (6489th, 6:13:22) all completed their first marathons. Alasdair Tatham (2:44:38) was the first Quaker to finish, taking 29th place from a field of over 6,600 competitors. Second home was Wayne Bramley (212th, 3:04:50) who was followed by Steve Snook (420th, 3:16:45). Annette Clarke (792nd, 3:26:11) was the first lady from the club with Dave McLachlan (1458th, 3:40:10), Toni Chaplin-Armer (2499th, 3:55:39), Ian Hammond (3525th, 4:13:20), Julie Giblin (4359th, 4:28:12), Diane Adkins (5664th, 5:01:56), and Michelle Boshier (5792nd, 5:08:06).

Three club members spent a Tuesday evening on the North Yorkshire Moors, competing in the Fox & Hounds race, the third event in the Northern Runner Summer Series. Stuart Hardcastle completed the hilly 8.8-mile course in 1:30:34 to finish 58th. Jez Makin came 76th in 1:44:10 with Richard Payne two places behind in 1:45:02.

Raby Castle 10k Raby Castle was the venue for the ninth race of the 2008 Quakers Club Championship. Although many runners from the club had headed over the border for the Edinburgh Marathon, there was still a good turnout at Sunday’s local 10k event. On a bright and breezy morning, 28 Quakers were on the start line, preparing to tackle the undulating two-lap course. The strong north-easterly wind was at its worst towards the end of each lap, making the final incline before the finish even more testing for the 400 competitors. Peter Smith, a serious contender for this year’s title, romped home in 52nd place with a time of 42:05. David Todd (70th, 43:28), making his first appearance in this year’s series, looked sharp and Darren Park (90th, 45:01) finished strongly. Nick Mason (100th, 45:22) beat Graham Park (103rd, 45:25) in a tight sprint finish followed by Phil Rutter (105th, 45:28), Jon Eccles (109th, 45:41), Jose Mediavilla (115th, 46:19), Ian Scott (119th, 46:35) and William Harris (137th, 47:48). The first Quaker lady was Diane Vaughan (165th, 49:49) with Paul Appleton (176th, 50:23), Danny Gordon (189th, 50:49), Robert Kirby (207th, 52:10) and Richard Payne (220th, 52:48). Bev Snook (250th, 54:18) was the second lady from the club to finish followed by Richard Hughes (263rd, 55:20), Nigel Walker (267th, 55:35), Sandra Park (269th, 56:17), Sally Singleton (276th, 56:57), and Gillian Harris (291st, 58:06). Next was Anthony Corbett (301st, 59:22) closely followed by Carol Penny (303rd, 59:26) and Suzanne Todd (304th, 59:27). Jeanette Maughan (314th, 59:56) just dipped under the hour with Anneli Simkiss (329th, 61:41), Grainne Archbold (346th, 63:46) and Alan Prest (352nd, 64:22).

Preston Park 5k, Pier to Pier race, Gateshead North Eastern Championships, Beverley 10k The Preston Park 5k, part of the Tees Forest Trail series took place last week. On a pleasantly cool Thursday evening, 150 runners weaved their way through the woods by the River Tees, to complete the two lap course. Its inclusion in the 2008 Club Championship resulted in a large number of Quakers making the short trip to Eaglescliffe. The recent dry spell provided firm conditions underfoot, enabling some fast finishing times. Nick Watson (13th, 18:28) was the first home from the club and one of five Quakers breaking 20 minutes. He was followed by Steve Snook (18th, 18:43), Peter Smith (23rd, 19:12), Stuart Hardcastle (32nd, 19:38) and Darren Park (35th, 19:56). Fiona Bailey (36th, 20:02) was the first Quaker lady to finish and second female overall. Next from the club was Phil Rutter (47th, 20:51) with Ian Scott (59th, 21:35), Jon Eccles (66th, 21:46) and William Harris (69th, 21:57). Peter Rowley (72nd, 22:13) reached the finish line just ahead of Ian Hammond (73rd, 22:15) and Jez Makin (74th, 22:17). Richard Payne (84th, 23:14) was the next Quaker to finish followed by the second Quaker lady on the night, Bev Snook (88th, 23:41), holding off the challenge of Wendy Colling (89th, 23:45). Next was Jeff Marriott (97th, 24:41) with Sandra Park (107th, 25:58), Julie Whinn (110th, 26:07), Gillian Harris (116th, 26:43), Carol Penney (117th, 26:45), Diane Adkins (121st, 27:07), Sally Singleton (125th, 27:50), Anthony Corbett (129th, 29:36), coming back from injury and Sarah Beadle (134th, 30:14).

The increasingly popular Pier to Pier Race was held on Sunday. Robert Kirby (409th, 57:36) was joined at South Shields by eight ladies from the club. Danielle Davis (496th, 59:31) was the first of them to reach Roker, followed by Wendy Colling (524th, 60:32), Julie Whinn (650th, 64:36), Carol Penney (688th, 65:40), Sally Singleton (689th, 65:41), Vivien Witham (704th, 66:39), Diane Adkins (759th, 69:02) and Jill Wallis.

On the track, Ian Archbold finished second at Gateshead in the North Eastern Championships10,000 metres race with a time of 35:32. At the NYSD meeting in Darlington, his time of 16:32 in the 5,000 metres earned him third place.

Ian Scott finished 25th from a field of 957 runners at the recent Beverley 10k. He completed the race in 37:43 and took third place in the M50 category.

Ripon 10 Mile Trail Race, Windmill Way, Dryderdale Dash, Wensleydale Wander Peter Smith led home a dozen Quakers at Sunday’s Ripon 10 Mile Trail Race, finishing 48th in 1:11:55. Ian Scott was the second from the club to complete the tough multi-terrain event, held in energy-sapping, hot conditions, taking 102nd place with a time of 1:20:47. Jon Eccles was 109th in 1:21:40 and Diane Vaughan, the first Quaker lady, 113th in 1:22:20. Peter Rowley finished 119th in 1:23:38 followed by Darren Park (132nd, 1:24:45), Wendy Colling (187th, 1:35:09), Sandra Park (198th, 1:38:14), Richard Hughes (199th, 1:38:16), Julie Whinn (209th, 1:41:55), Diane Adkins (231st, 1:51:01) and Jill Wallis (232nd, 1:51:19).
Peter Smith’s performance earned him another 50 points in the Club Championship. He currently heads the table on 246 points with Peter Rowley moving up to second on 234 points. Danny Gordon, last season’s runner-up drops to third on 232 points, while Julie Whinn, in 7th place, leads the ladies challenge with 148 points, having ran one less race.

Dave Thompson spent Saturday in East Yorkshire, running the Windmill Way. He completed the Yorkshire Wolds’ 25 mile off-road event in 5:11, enduring the weekend’s hot weather. His reward was a pot windmill, which definitely makes a change from the usual race tee-shirt.

Jez Makin came 15th in the Dryderdale Dash, held last week in Hamsterley Forest, with a time of 39:24. Danny Gordon completed the race, organised by Durham Fell Runners, in 42:43 to come 23rd and fellow M60 Quaker, Alan Prest was 28th in 51:27.

The Wensleydale Wander offered runners and walkers scenic courses over two distances. Ian Stephenson opted for the 12- mile event, where he finished 10th in 2:08:02. Annette Clarke was the joint female winner over the 22-mile course, finishing alongside Denise Kelvey-Brown in 3:35:00. Rob Towns completed the race with the same time.

Keswick Half Marathon, Kirkbymoorside 10k, Tees Barrage 10k Septuagenarian, Bill Frankland showed that age is no barrier to road racing, when he completed the Keswick Half Marathon on Sunday, with a time of 2:28:01. The Quaker runner from Washington was the oldest of 507 finishers and won the M75 category, as the sole entrant, finishing 472nd overall.

The slightly younger Dave Thompson was the first of five Quakers to finish Sunday’s Kirkbymoorside 10k. His time of 45:16 gave him 91st place from a field of 412 runners. Ian Scott was the second from the club to complete the rural North Yorkshire course finishing 114th in 46:33 with Peter Rowley just two places behind in 46:39. Danny Gordon was 186th in 50:44 and Sally Singleton 295th with a time of 57:05.

On Bank Holiday Monday, a dozen Quakers took part in the Tees Barrage 10k. Alasdair Tatham came 9th in 35:25 followed by Peter Smith (44th, 40:54), Dave Whittle (67th, 43:19) and Nick Mason (93rd, 44:29). After running the Kirkbymoorside 10k on the previous day, Peter Rowley found enough energy to finish the Stockton race, coming 125th in 46:08. Diane Vaughan was the first Quaker lady, finishing 130th with a time of 46:27. William Harris (174th, 48:55) was the next from the club to finish with Paul Appleton (194th, 50:04), Richard Hughes (238th, 52:48), Gillian Harris (332nd, 58:55), Jeanette Maughan (348th, 59:58) and Linda Corbally (371st, 62:44).

Carlton Challenge, Spring Coast Road 5k, Three Peaks Race, Blyth Valley 10k The Northern Runner Summer Series began at Carlton Bank, last Tuesday. 84 runners were tempted to the North Yorkshire Moors to run the 4.8 mile Carlton Challenge. The first Quaker was Nick Wadd, finishing 19th in 40:39. He was followed by Stuart Hardcastle, 43rd in 45:10 and Richard Payne, 78th in 52:13.

The Spring Coast Road 5k, the first of three Wednesday evening races organised by New Marske Harriers, took place at Redcar last week. Conditions at the coast were ideal for running, with only a slight breeze and a sea mist on the horizon taking just enough heat from the April sun. Peter Smith was one of several Quakers racing for the third time in seven days. The leading Quaker at the Guisborough Forest trail race, who then went on to smash his personal best at the Redcar Half Marathon, showed no signs of fatigue as he stormed around the seafront course in 19:06 to finish 40th. Dave Whittle followed in 49th place with a time of 20:07 with Michael Joyeux 53rd in 20:26. Ian Scott clocked 20:36 to take 55th place followed by Phil Rutter (57th, 20:41), Darren Park (70th, 21:27), Jonathon Eccles (72nd, 21:31) and Peter Rowley (81st, 21:56). Sarah Wilson was 98th in 23:38 with Jeff Marriott (106th, 24:24), Julie Whinn (122nd, 26:11) and Sally Singleton, who finished strongly in 129th with a time of 27:21.

The annual Three Peaks Race took place on Saturday. This year’s 24 mile long event incorporated the World Long Distance Mountain Running Challenge. Standards were high with competitors travelling from around the globe. 754 runners started the race, with 685 completing it. Nick Wadd was 458th in 4:34:21 and Charles Bogg 652nd in 5:15:20. Rob McSherry was unfortunate to suffer an injury during the race, forcing him to retire after two hours of running.

Conditions at Sunday’s Blyth Valley 10k race were good for the 400-strong field. Quakers were represented by stoic veterans, Dave Thompson (156th, 45:01) and Peter Rowley (183rd, 46:18).

Guisborough Moor, Guisborough Forest, Great Langdale St. George’s Day 10k, Rothwell 10k, Cannon Hill Park 5k, Redcar Half Marathon The Northern Runner Winter Series concluded at Guisborough Moor, where Quaker veteran, Danny Gordon fought his way around the hilly 12.5 mile course in 2:32:08. His reward was 40 points, which secured him 4th place in the final table for the over-60 group

Fell running fans can now look forward to the summer series, which begins this month. Anyone wanting something less strenuous could try the Tees Forest Trail races, which take place on Thursday evenings. The series kicked off last week on a damp night at Guisborough Forest. Peter Smith led home a large contingent of Quakers, finishing 13th in 19:35. Stuart Hardcastle was 15th with a time of 20:06 followed Darren Park (17th, 20:24) and Michael Joyeux (20th, 21:00). Ian Hammond (32nd, 21:50) was followed by Jez Makin (33rd, 21:56) and Dave Thompson (36th, 21:59). First Quaker lady was Danielle Davis (37th, 22:05) with Peter Rowley (40th, 22:43), Danny Gordon (47th, 23:56), Julie Whinn (66th, 27:20), Diane Adkins (67th, 27:29), Grainne Archbold (76th, 28:49) and Alan Bell (89th, 34:50). Apologies to Peter Smith. His achievement failed to feature in the local press, due to him being listed as a North Yorks Moor runner. Perhaps they’re trying to poach him.

On Saturday, Richard Wall travelled to Cumbria for the Great Langdale St. George’s Day 10k. The M60 runner finished 328th in 61:18.

Ian Scott took part in Sunday’s Rothwell 10k in Leeds. A finishing time of 36:18 gave him 39th place from a field of 666 runners and 2nd place in the M50 category.

While in Birmingham at the weekend, Peter Rowley managed to squeeze in a race, running in the Cannon Hill Park 5k charity race. He finished 22nd overall and 2nd M50 in 22:06.

There was a huge turnout from the club at Redcar on Sunday, for the big local half marathon. Held a month later than usual, a field of over a thousand still had to brave the wind on a cold day. Fiona Bailey took the F35 prize, finishing 134th overall in 1:30:13. Alasdair Tatham (19th, 1:16:18) was the first Quaker to finish followed by Nick Watson (77th, 1:28:36), Steve Snook (106th, 1:28:25), Peter Smith (110th, 1:28:47) and Don Jones (113th, 1:28:57). Graham Park finished 156th in 1:31:35 with Dave Whittle (165th, 1:32:45) and Rob Towns (174th, 1:33:30). The second Quaker lady, Annette Clarke, ran the London Marathon a week earlier, but swallowed up Redcar’s thirteen miles in 1:35:00 to finish 201st. Dave Thompson was 216th in 1:35:37 followed by Michael Joyeux (253rd, 1:37:22), Nick Mason (260th, 1:37:39), Darren Park (282nd, 1:38:44), Danielle Davis (340th, 1:41:31), Lee Coles (359th, 1:42:00), Ian Hammond (408th, 1:44:31) and Danny Gordon (1:49:18). Paul Appleton clocked 1:56:32 to finish 677th with Julie Whinn (777th, 2:02:04), Sandra Park (806th, 2:04:40), Vivien Witham (867th, 2:09:32), Clare Dodsworth (868th, 2:09:44), Diane Adkins (890th, 2:11:25), Jeanette Maughan (904th, 2:12:55) and Sarah Beadle (964th, 2:24:20). Sorry if I’ve missed anyone. The official results weren’t very helpful, as they failed to include runners’ club names.

Redcar Half Marathon Stats

London Marathon, Allendale Challenge Several Quakers joined over 34,000 runners at Sunday’s London Marathon. In the ladies’ results, Annette Clarke finished 430th overall and 56th in the F45 age group, in 3:30:12. Sharron Towns knocked six minutes off her 2007 time to finish 1368th in 3:53:40. Carol Penney was 3750th with a time of 4:25:17 and Suzanne Todd finished 6964th in 5:02:01. Wayne Bramley completed the course in 3:01:17, finishing in 1184th place and 130th in his M45 category. Stuart Lynn was the 4379th man to finish, with a time of 3:30:51 and Richard Hughes followed in 12938th place in 4:17:36.

Snow and freezing temperatures failed to deter the majority of entrants from taking part in the 25-mile Allendale Challenge. 465 walkers and 45 runners tackled the tough off-road event in the hills around Hexham. Rob Towns finished 22nd in 5 hours and 16 minutes and Rob McSherry followed in 30th place with a time of 5 hours and 32 minutes.

The Quakers Club Championship heads to the coast this weekend for the Redcar Half Marathon. Sunday’s race starts at Kirkleatham Museum at 10:30. Entries on the day are limited and runners, who have not pre-entered must register between 8:00 and 9:30 on the morning of the race. Runners can have another dollop of seaside air three days later, when the next Championship event, the Spring Coast Road 5k, takes place on Wednesday 23rd April. Registration takes place at Redcar Rugby Club, with the race starting half a mile away at 7:15pm.

Cleveland Survival, Coniston 14, Hartlepool Marina 5 Mile Road Race A team of five Quakers took part in the recent Cleveland Survival on the North Yorkshire Moors. Charles Bogg, Steve Snook, Annette Clarke, Rob Towns and Dave Thompson completed the 26 miles in six hours and 21 minutes, finishing 22nd from a field of 210 participants. Annette Clarke and Denise Kelvey-Brown were the first ladies home.

Three Quakers joined over 1300 runners, from throughout Britain, at Saturday’s popular Coniston 14 road race. In generally good, but slightly windy conditions, Peter Rowley completed the picturesque course around the lake in 2:12:34 to finish 924th. Roy MacDougall followed in 1113th place with a time of 2:23:59 and Shirley Conner came 1240th in 2:38:54.

Five Quakers made the shorter trip to the coast, on Sunday, to run in the Hartlepool Marina 5 Mile Road Race. Ian Archbold was the first from the club to finish the course, which runs from the Historic Quay to Seaton Carew and back again. His time of 29:26 gave him 17th place overall and fourth M40. Peter Smith was 39th in 32:01 with Danny Gordon 103rd overall and third M60 with a time of 38:59. Jackie Taylor came 176th in 45:56 and Bill Frankland, one of four runners aged over 70 taking part, took 209th place in 50:03. In total, 230 runners braved the wintry weather to finish the race.

Dumfries Marathon, Arkendale 10k, The Doctor’s Gate Race Dave Thompson, a regular at local long distance events, headed over the border on Easter Sunday to compete in the Dumfries Marathon. His high-mileage preparation paid dividends as he swept around the flat, scenic course with a personal best time of 3:30:34, breaking his own ‘over-55’ club record and finishing 32nd out of 86 runners.

Two Quakers took part in Sunday’s Arkendale 10k, a rural multi-terrain race near Harrogate. Conditions underfoot were tricky, with flooded lanes and muddy fields. Darren Park was 51st in a field of 320, with a time of 45:01 (PB) and Sandra Park was 199th in 56:29.

The Doctor’s Gate Race, the second event in this year’s Club Championship, took place at Hamsterley Forest at the weekend. Nick Watson was the first Quaker home, finishing 14th overall in 50:49. Next was Stuart Hardcastle (54th, 62:07) followed by Ian Scott (69th, 65:25). Sharon Towns completed the tough 6.7 mile course in 65:45, to finish 71st and second in the F40 category. Jez Makin came 84th in 69:41 with Danny Gordon (87th, 71:57) and Alan Prest (103rd, 85:18).

With the NYSD Cross-Country League now over and the final tables compiled, Quakers finished 7th in the men’s team results, following a late surge in the last two meetings. The highest placed individual was Bev Snook, who took fourth place in the Vet2 category.

Spen 20, Mermaid 10k, North Tyneside 10k Alasdair Tatham took fifth place in West Yorkshire’s recent Spen 20 road race, covering the hilly 20-mile course in 1:59:48. Rob Towns came 74th in 2:33:22 and Annette Clarke finished 82nd overall and second in the F45 category with a time of 2:35:13.

Nick Watson led home a large contingent of Quakers in the Mermaid 10k at Marske on Good Friday. The 223 finishers were fortunate to avoid the rain, but had to endure a vicious headwind on the outward leg to Redcar. In the opening race of the 2008 Quaker Club Championship, Watson came 31st with a time 39:47. The second Quaker to finish the flat, coastal course was Peter Smith (49th, 41:45) followed by Graham Park (55th, 42:46) and Michael Joyeux (65th, 44:07) who just beat Annette Clarke (66th, 44:09) in a sprint finish. Next was Phil Rutter (71st, 44:16) with John Clarke (77th, 44:29), Peter Rowley (100th, 46:39), Ian Scott (106th, 47:08), Danielle Davis (109th, 47:18) and Sharron Towns (118th, 47:57). Ian Hammond (132nd, 49:15) was followed by Danny Gordon (141st, 50:01), Wendy Colling (149th, 50:44), Jeff Marriott (52:47), Nigel Walker (186th, 52:47) and Claire Dodsworth (192nd, 57:39). Diane Adkins (200th, 59:18) was the next from the club with Alan Prest (211th, 63:25), Grainne Archbold (214th, 64:10) and Sarah Beadle (218th, 66:44).

Eleven Quakers were amongst the 1552 finishers at Sunday’s North Tyneside 10k. Steve Snook was the first from the club to cross the finish line at St. Mary’s Lighthouse, finishing 84th in 41:06. Rob Towns was 135th with a time of 42:54 and David Todd came 176th in 44:07. Annette Clarke was second F45 and 198th overall in 44:35 and Peter Rowley 327th in 47:05. Wendy Colling (593rd, 51:56) was the second Quaker lady followed by Sally Singleton (876th, 56:16), Julie Whinn (892nd, 56:30), Carol Penney (1038th, 58:53), Diane Adkins (1047th, 59:00) and Jill Wallis (1206th, 61:43).

Trollers Trot. Three Quakers tackled the Trollers Trot, a tough 25-mile off road event for runners and walkers, held in Wharfedale in The Yorkshire Dales. Strong winds made the undulating course even more difficult for the 344 participants. Annette Clarke, Rob Towns and Charles Bogg finished 81st in 4 hours and 40 minutes.

They would normally have been accompanied by Dave Thompson, but he was taking part in the Trimpell 20, at Morecambe, on the same weekend. He completed the fast, flat course, which is used by many runners as a preparation race for the London Marathon, in a personal best time of 2:32:11. This gave him an overall position of 117th from a field of 281 and also 7th place in the M55 category.

The 2008 Club Championship kicks off on Good Friday March 21st at Marske, where the Mermaid 10k is held at 10:15am. Anyone hoping to take part in the Northumberland Coastal Run, on July 20th, should apply as soon as possible. The race was voted as the best in Britain by Runners World readers and demand for places could be high.

Haweswater Half Marathon On Sunday afternoon, two Quakers braved the wind at the Haweswater Half Marathon, in Cumbria. The challenging out-and-back race, which follows the shores of the reservoir, was won by Ian Crampton of Durham City. Quakers’ Alasdair Tatham came fourth, from 419 finishers, with a time of 1:17:35. Peter Rowley (M50) finished in 151st place in 1:40:41, working his way through the field to secure a top half position in his category.

Held on the same day, but in complete contrast, was the Liverpool Half Marathon. A field of around 3500 runners warmed up to the sound of the Beatles before tackling a much flatter course, where each mile marker was named after a Beatles song. Claire Kelly finished 3,292nd overall and 894th female in 2:35:06.

Graeme Jamieson headed to Berkshire to join more than 11,000 other runners taking part in the Reading Half Marathon. He crossed the finish line inside Reading Football Club’s Madejski Stadium in 937th place, cracking his PB with a time of 1:32:47.

Richard Hughes and Diane Vaughan took part in Sunday’s Barcelona Marathon, finishing 5730th and 5731st in 4:17:35. Danny Gordon ran in the Commondale Crossing, the ninth race in the Northern Runner Winter Series. On a bright and breezy day, he finished in 61st place and is currently fifth in the over-60 table.

Snake Lane 10, St. Wilfred’s Muddy Boots 10k, Huddersfield 10k, High Cup Nick Fell Race, and Rombald’s Stride off-road race Ian Scott took second place in the M50 category in Sunday’s Snake Lane 10 at Pocklington. 640 runners completed the ten-mile race, won by GB international Stephen Hepples, with Scott finishing 32nd overall in 59:52. The second Quaker home was Peter Smith (129th, 1:06:47) followed by Rob Towns (165th, 1:08:37), Annette Clarke (194th and third F45, 1:10:21) and Dave Thompson (237th, 1:12:24). On the same day, the St. Wilfred’s Muddy Boots 10k took place at Ripon. Peter Rowley came 58th in a field of 242 runners with a time of 48:25. Julie Giblin got round the multi-terrain course in 56:24, finishing in 154th place. Two Quakers headed to Huddersfield on Sunday to tackle the hilly 10k course. Darren Park finished 147th out of 461 competitors with a personal best time of 47:35 and Sandra Park fought her way round in 58:25 to finish 351st. On Saturday, Richard Payne ran in the challenging High Cup Nick fell race at Dufton, near Appleby. He completed the nine mile course, which involved 1500 feet of climbing in 1:51:50. Four Quakers were amongst the 470 starters at the recent Rombald’s Stride off-road race. Annette Clarke (143rd, 4:22:05), Rob Towns (144th, 4:22:05), Dave Thompson (149th, 4:24:37) and Charles Bogg (153rd, 4:24:37) battled against a biting wind and snow blizzards to complete the arduous 22-mile West Yorkshire course.

15/02/2008 Press Report

Contributor: Phil Rutter

Awards, Liversedge Half Marathon, and NYSD Cross Country League. Dave Thompson took the Athlete of the Year award at the annual presentation night, held at Mowden Rugby Club. Dave clocked up the miles in 2007 and took part in the London Marathon and the 50-mile Rotherham Round amongst many other events. Mike and Kath Horan received the Quakers Running Club Award and Peter Rowley, Richard Hughes and Danny Gordon took Special Achievement Awards. Peter Smith was named Senior Male of the Year and Fiona Bailey was the Senior Female. Rob Towns and Annette Clarke took the Veteran Male and Veteran Female Awards respectively, while Michael Joyeux and Toni Chaplin-Armer were awarded the Most Improved Male and Female Awards. Raffle prizes were donated by Darlington Borough Council, Wilkinson, Marks & Spencer, Boyes, Darlington Building Society and various members of the club. Rob Towns finished an impressive 59th out of 423 competitors in Sunday’s Liversedge Half Marathon, with a time of 1:34:51. Annette Clarke was 71st overall, in 1:36:08 and took second place in the F45 category. Wendy Colling completed the undulating West Yorkshire course in 1:58:54 to finish 291st followed by Sally Singleton, 334th in 2:07:06 and Suzanne Todd, 344th in 2:09:09. Diane Adkins and Jill Wallis both crossed the line in 2:21:36, finishing 388th and 389th respectively. On the same afternoon, seven Quakers entered the penultimate NYSD Cross Country League meeting at Stockton. Ever-present Bev Snook was the sole lady runner from the club, finishing 28th in 20:02, leaving her clinging on to third place in the Vet2 table. In the men’s race, Nick Watson was the leading Quaker, coming 36th in 29:47. Peter Smith followed in 45th place in 30:24 with Steve Snook one place behind in 30:33. Graham Park came 54th in 31:46, Danny Gordon finished 79th in36:58 and Alan Prest was 87th with a time of 41:58.

01/02/2008 Press Report

Contributor: Phil Rutter

Northern Cross Country Championships - Roundhay Park, Leeds 26/01/2008. On Saturday, Roundhay Park in Leeds was the venue for this year’s Northern Cross Country Championships. Quakers were represented in the senior men’s race, where six runners from the club tackled the challenging parkland course. Conditions underfoot were good, with the mud of recent meetings not a feature. Nick Watson, competing against club runners from across the North of England, attained a highly creditable midway position, finishing 333rd with a time of 49:47. Steve Snook completed the 12k course in 51:03, finishing 387th. Peter Smith was 440th in 53:05 followed by Graham Park (451st, 53:22), Dave McLachlan (493rd, 54:32) and Wayne Bramley (515th, 55:21). A quartet of Quakers took part in the recent Tandem Challenge, a 28 mile event on the North Yorkshire Moors. Runners competed in pairs with one navigating an easterly route, while the other embarked on a westerly one. Both then met up towards the end of the event to finish together. Endurance specialists; Charles Bogg, Dave Thompson, Annette Clarke and Rob Towns, effectively running as a team of four, finished 41st out of 100 teams in 5 hours and 45 minutes.

31/01/2008 Awards Evening

Contributor: Wayne Bramley

Awards evening trophy recipients:

York Brass Monkey Half Marathon 20/01/2008. On Sunday, over a thousand runners headed for York Racecourse to take part in the Brass Monkey Half Marathon. Alasdair Tatham completed the flat, rural course in 1:20:18, finishing in 45th place. Ian Scott was two places behind Tatham in a time of 1:20:38 and was first to finish in the M50 category. Steve Snook was 163rd in 1:29:33 followed by Rob Towns in 206th place with a personal best time of 1:32:32. The next Quaker was Dave McClachlan (220th, 1:33:07) followed by Graham Park (241st, 1:34:24). Annette Clarke was the first lady from the club, with a time of 1:34:32, finishing 247th overall and third in the F45 category, with a new personal best time. Peter Smith was 260th in 1:35:23 with Dave Thompson (302nd, 1:37:05) and Charles Bogg (351st, 1:39:28). Diane Vaughan (406th, 1:41:44) was the second Quaker lady home followed by Sharon Towns (436th, 1:43:30), Toni Chaplin-Armer (523rd, 1:47:21), Wendy Colling (658th, 1:53:41), Julie Giblin (673rd, 1:54:06) and Bev Snook (713th, 1:56:50). Sally Singleton, on her half marathon debut, finished 803rd in 2:02:34 and Carol Penney was 813th in 2:03:23. M70 veteran, Bill Frankland came 834th in 2:04:55 with Jackie Taylor (864th, 2:07:32), Diane Adkins (933rd, 2:14:06) and Jill Wallis (951st, 2:16:12). Another runner making her debut at this distance was Catherine Horan, finishing 1010th in 2:42:24.

11/01/2008 Press Report

Contributor: Phil Rutter

Clay Bank West Fell 13/01/2008. Anthony Corbett led home a trio of Quakers at the Clay Bank West fell race on Sunday morning, finishing 100th in a time of 56:55. Danny Gordon, who later in the day ran a cross country race, was 104th in 57:40. Jez Makin completed the tough 5.8 mile course in 58:22 finishing in 107th place.

Whitby 13/01/2008. On Sunday afternoon, the NYSD Cross Country League resumed at Whitby. In windy conditions Bev Snook finished 34th in 30:13, claiming fish and chips afterwards to be a major incentive. Having competed in all five meetings this season, she is currently third in the Vet2 category. Diane Atkins followed in 38th place in a time of 34:49. In the men’s race Steve Snook was the first Quaker, finishing 50th in forty minutes. Graham Park came 53rd in 40:33 and Danny Gordon recovered from his morning fell race to finish 80th in 48:41.

Morpeth 01/01/2008. While many people were at home nursing hangovers, four Quakers were competing in the New Years Day Morpeth 11k race. In heavy rain, Diane Vaughan was the first home from the club, finishing 74th with a time of 50:46. Richard Hughes came 79th in 51:29 followed by Toni Chaplin-Armer, 93rd in 55:58 and Alan Prest, 111th in 63:22.

On the same day, Rob Towns made the trip to Kirkby Stephen for the Nine Standards Fell Race. Rob completed the 8-mile course in 77:35, finishing in 61st place.

Veteran, Danny Gordon had a hectic festive period; running three races in six days. He took to the hills, taking part in two of the Northern Runner Winter Series fell races. At the Guisborough Woods Race, Danny came 82nd in 61:04.
On New Years Day, he ran in the Captain Cooks Race in extremely wet and muddy conditions, finishing 179th in 51:47.
Falling between the two fell races was a 10k race at Ripon, where Danny secured the runner-up spot in the 2007 Club Championship.

On Sunday, two club members ran the Old Monks 6, a multi-terrain race held near Hartlepool. Peter Rowley came 61st in 44:42 and Alan Prest followed in 102nd place in 57:24.

Quakers now meet at Carmel School on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:30. All are welcome to attend.

Ripon 30/12/2007. The 2007 Club Championship drew to a close on Sunday when 21 Quakers took part in the Jolly Holly Jog 10k at Ripon. Peter Smith capped an excellent year by finishing 44th in a time of 41:30 and beating newly crowned Club Champion, Steve Snook, who came four places behind Smith in 41:46. Smith’s performance earned him 49 points and saw him leap to fourth place in the final standings. Stuart Lynn (90th, 44:49) was the third Quaker home followed by Dave Whittle (97th, 45:28), Annette Clarke (98th, 45:35), Ian Scott (100th, 45:43), Peter Rowley (118th, 47:04) and Dave Thompson (139th, 48:11). Over-sixty stalwart, Danny Gordon (161st, 49:27), took 48 points to finish second in the Championship table, one point ahead of John Clarke. Jes Smith came 172nd in 49:53 with Jez Makin (230th, 52:43), Wendy Colling (277th, 55:11), Anthony Corbett (299th, 56:28), Carol Penney (357th, 60:31), Julie Whinn (367th, 61:12), Diane Adkins (374th, 61:45), Sue Boyle (429th, 67:59), Grainne Archbold (447th,70:36), Mike Horan (448th, 70:54), Catherine Horan (463rd,76:30) and Alexandra Simpson (464th, 76:36).

Two Quakers ran in the Saltwell 10k at Gateshead. Peter Smith finished 87th in 41:53 and Peter Rowley came 134th in 46:10. Both were placed 14th in their respected age categories.

Loftus 16/12/2007. Annette Clarke took first place in the Vet 45 Ladies category at the Loftus Poultry Run on Sunday. Despite competing in a 50 mile race on the previous weekend, Annette clocked 57:20 to finish 133rd overall out of more than 500 runners. There was another good turnout from the club, with 21 Quakers tackling the 8-mile course held over quiet, undulating roads and muddy fields. Nick Wadd was the first Quaker to complete the race, finishing 63rd in 52:13. The second from the club to finish, Steve Snook, was 83rd in 54:17, followed by Peter Smith in 93rd place in 55:25. The improving Michael Joyeux was 134th, just behind Annette, in a time of 57:21 with Ian A. Scott 155th in 58:44. John Clarke came 157th in 58:56 with Darren Park (216th 62:08), Jeremy Smith (238th 63:19), Sharron Towns (257th 64:16), Danny Gordon (273rd 65:04) and Clare Francis (296th 66:25). Paul Appleton finished 317th in 67:31 followed by Bev Snook (364th 70:22), Sally Singleton (398th 73:30), Sandra Park (409th 74:19), Carol Penney (421st 76:38), Jeanette Maughan (450th 80:16), Rachel Maddison (484th 93:39), Mike Horan (489th 95:09) and Catherine Horan (490th 95:11).

Gret Langdale Xmas Pudding 10k 15/12/2007. Four club members headed to the Lake District for the Great Langdale Xmas Pudding 10k. Held over two days with two separate races, its popularity still exceeds available places and entrees closed months in advance. Stuart Hardcastle ran Saturday’s race finishing 120th out of 451 runners in 43:24. Sunday’s race attracted 397 competitors, with Richard Payne 198th in 48:29, Joanne Dewer 281st in 53:32 and Kate Schweizer 282nd in 53:33.

Hartlepool 09/12/2007. Hartlepool hosted the North East Cross Country Championships on Saturday, attracting a quality field from across the region. Quakers were represented by a full team in the men’s senior race, beating four other clubs to finish in a respectable 16th place. Inclement weather conditions made the hilly course even more demanding with mud from start to finish. Nick Watson was the first from the club to complete the four laps, finishing 95th in 50:28. Peter Smith continued his impressive 2007 form, clocking 52:14 to finish in 111th place followed by Dave McLachlan in 138th with a time of 53:37. Steve Snook came 143rd in 54:21 with Graham Park two places behind in 54:30. Wayne Bramley finished 158th in 55:56.

Rotherham Round 50 mile trail 09/12/2007. The weather was no better further south at Rotherham, where three club members, Annette Clarke, Dave Thompson and Rob Towns, took part in the Rotherham Round 50 mile trail race. At the 7am start it was cold and dark and the forecast was horrible. Good progress was made during the first 15 miles, which were mainly over canal towpaths and gravel tracks. By 10am the rain was coming down in sheets with a raging wind. A large percentage of the remainder of the race was over field paths and arable land, which progressively turned into bogs. Despite the adverse conditions, the Quakers trio, supported all the way round by John Clarke, completed the race in 9 hours, 55 minutes, finishing 7th out of 17 teams. Excellent amenities, good organisation and a hot meal at the end make this event a must for anyone who fancies a 50-miler in December.

The Loftus Poultry Run, the penultimate Club Championship event, takes place on Sunday 16th at 11am. Following the Thirsk10, Danny Gordon and John Clarke are now level at the top with 486 points.

Peter Rowley has recently been appointed 'Chairman of Sport England North East'. This is fantastic news, not only for Peter but also for Quakers RC. Congratulations Peter.

All members invited to an Extraordinary General Meeting to discuss the proposition of a new training base for Quakers RC. The upstairs room in the Red Lion (Priestgate) has been booked for Wednesday 19th of December and the meeting will commence at 7.30pm, please try to attend, your views are important to the future direction of the club.

Thirsk 10 25/11/2007. Persistent rain failed to deter more than 600 runners from taking part in Sunday’s Thirsk 10. Previously held in June, the organisers switched this year’s race to December, citing “better weather” as one reason for the change! Despite the wet conditions, entries were well up on last year and included a large contingent from the Quakers. After a delayed and congested start on a narrow lane, the field soon spread out on the short loop around Sowerby. The rain abated, turning to drizzle, but the saturated roads meant cold, wet feet for the duration of the race.

Ian Scott (V50) was the first from the club to complete the flat ten-mile c ourse, in a time of 61 minutes. He was 28th overall and the highest placed in his age category. Peter Smith was the second Quaker home, finishing 115th in 67:07 followed by Steve Snook (123rd 67:46). Rob Towns finished 133rd in 68:43 closely followed by David Dodd (135th 68:50). Next came our second Ian Scott (176th 70:27), Phil Rutter (204th 71:48), Peter Rowley (251st 74:23¬) and Jon Eccles (282nd 76:05).

Sharron Towns (294th 76:34) was the first lady from the club to finish. Sharron, along with Wendy Colling (435th 85:01), Bev Snook (436th 85:06) and Sandra Park (501st 90:01) counted in the ladies’ team results, finishing in fifth place.

Jose Mediavilla came 333rd in 78:59 followed by Joerg Putzer (338rd 79:21), Jez Makin (377th 81:14), Danny Gordon (391st 82:10), Paul Appleton (397th 82:36) and Richard Payne (434th 85:00). Simon Carter was 506th in 90:35 with Debbie Fox (507th 90:37) just behind him. The next Quaker was Sally Singleton (517th 91:44) followed by Alan Prest (536th 93:41), Susan Todd (538th 93:52), Jill Wallis (560th 97:48) and Jeanette Maughan (568th 99:48)

Hopefully that covers everyone from the club who ran. The official results were somewhat strange. Richard Hughes apparently ran a personal best of 64:12 while at home in bed!

Meanwhile, Mike Horan headed to South Yorkshire for the Percy Pud 10K, bringing home a Christmas pudding for the umpteenth time. Mike, a V60 regular at the popular festive run, finished 1146th in 63:55, in appalling weather conditions.

In the Club Championship, John Clarke still tops the table on 486 points with old dog Danny Gordon snapping at his heels in second place. Danny’s victory at Clay Bank narrowed the gap to only two points. Dave Thompson remains in third place with 475 points; Peter Rowley is fourth on 442 points while Richard Payne leaps to fifth on 425 points. Steve Snook, back in eighth place on 396 points, but with two races in hand, looks like a good outside bet for the title.

Leeds Abbey Dash 25/11/2007. Quakers runners were pounding the streets of Leeds at the weekend; taking part in the popular Leeds Abbey Dash. Alasdair Tatham was the first from the club to complete the fast, flat 10K course. From a field of 4889 finishers, Alasdair came 100th with a chip recorded time of 35:26. Peter Smith was the second Quaker home, finishing in 396th place with a time of 40:30. Diane Vaughan came 937th in 45:23 and finished an impressive ninth in the F40 category. Richard Hughes came 1022nd in 46:05, Sandra Park clocked 52:10 to finish 2330th and Rachel Maddison was 4221st in 65:53.

Clay Bank, NEHRA Winter Series 25/11/3007. On Sunday, Clay Bank was the venue for the fourth race in the Northern Runner /NEHRA Winter Series. It was also the final opportunity to gain points in the Group 1 section of the Quakers Club Championship. On a fine morning, six Quakers took to the hills to attempt the challenging 4.2 mile run. Michael Joyeux, in 79th place, was the first finisher from the club with a time of 44:53. Ian Scott (81st, 45:22) was the second Quaker followed by Sharron Towns (90th, 47:42), Jon Eccles (93rd, 48:03), Jez Makin (100th, 49:12) and Danny Gordon (103rd, 50:41); hoping to narrow John Clarke’s slender lead in the Championship.

NYSD Cross Country League 18/11/07. The fourth meeting of the NYSD Cross Country League took place at Thirsk on Sunday. On a bleak afternoon, five hardy souls represented the Quakers. In the ladies race Sharon Towns was 26th in 35:03 and Bev Snook came 38th in 39:04. Nick Watson finished 45th in the men’s race in a time of 46:36. Graham Park was 63rd in 49:22 and Dave McLachlan 72nd in 51:22.

Brampton to Carlisle Road Race 17/11/07. The Brampton to Carlisle Road Race, officially the oldest ten- mile race in the UK, was held on Saturday. Its inclusion in the Club Championship, resulted in a strong contingent of Quakers on the start line amongst the 600-plus competitors. Wayne Bramley finished 104th overall and 15th in his age category in a time of 1:03:45. Peter Smith (150th 1:06:13) was the second Quaker to reach Carlisle followed by Steve Snook (250th 1:09:48), Michael Joyeux (252nd 1:09:51), Ian Scott (314th 1:13:22), Ian Hammond (321st 1:13:38), Peter Rowley (348th 1:14:59), Jez Makin (424th 1:19:22) and Richard Payne (502nd 1:24:37). With the first three from each club counting, Quakers finished 25th out of 37 teams overall and 16th out of 27 in the veteran team results.

John Clarke currently leads the Club Championship on 486 points. Danny Gordon is second with 480 points and Dave Thompson just behind with 475 points. The next race, The Clay Bank West Fell Race, takes place on Sunday morning at 1030.

Maltby 7 11/11/07. Alasdair Tatham won the Maltby 7 Road Race at the weekend with a time of 37:38. The Quaker finished half a minute ahead of second-placed Michael Jefferies of Billingham Marsh House Harriers. Eleven other Quakers braved the cold wind. David Todd finished 39th overall in 47:07, followed by Darren Park (65th, 50:33); Peter Rowley (67th, 50:43); Paul Appleton (122nd, 56:11) and Simon Carter (162nd, 61:05). Sandra Park (171st 62:06) was the first lady from the club. Other positions and times were Suzanne Todd (179th, 62:41), Alan Prest (182nd, 63:00), Michelle Boshier (193rd, 64:42), Jeanette Maughan (196th, 65:02) and Rachel Maddison (227th 75:21).

Gibside Trail Race 04/11/07. Joanne Dewar and Kate Schweizer ran in the recent Fruit Bowl 7 trail race at Gibside. Joanne was 334th in 64:48 and Kate finished just behind in 64:53.

18/11/2007 Press Report 15/11/07

Contributor: Phil Rutter

Guy Fawkes 10 04/11/07. On Sunday 4th November, the Quakers took a coachload of runners and supporters to Ripley, near Harrogate, for the Guy Fawkes 10. This gruelling ten miler, held on country lanes and rough tracks, was not for the faint-hearted. Flat stretches of road were few and far between and a killer hill just after four miles had all but the elite reduced to walking pace. In brilliant autumn sunshine, Wayne Bramley was the first Quaker home, finishing in 66th place in 1:09:12. The first Quaker lady to complete the course was Annette Clarke (198th, 1:16:28). Rob Towns (93rd, 1:11:24) kept Wayne in view for much of the race and was followed by Phil Rutter (170th, 1:15:23) and Dave Thompson (192nd, 1:16:21). Following Annette was Stuart Hardcastle (1:17:15) with Michael Joyeux (219th, 1:17:26) close behind. Next was Jon Eccles (244th, 1:18:23) with Ian Hammond (254th, 1:18:49) and Peter Rowley (268th, 1:19:18) following. Sharon Towns (330th, 1:21:45) was the second lady from the club, followed by Clare Francis (362nd, 1:22:54) and Andy Downer (424th, 1:25:07). Jez Makin (437th, 1:25:44), celebrating his birthday, was next, followed by Richard Payne (491st, 1:28:29), Wendy Colling (534th, 1:29:57), Anthony Corbett (628th, 1:35:43), Sam Edwardson (660th, 1:37:34), Jackie Taylor (669th, 1:38:14), Carol Penney (686th, 1:39:30), Sally Singleton (688th, 1:39:40), Diane Adkins (709th, 1:40:59), Bill Frankland (732nd, 1:42:28), Roy MacDougall (734th, 1:42:37), Jill Wallis (737th, 1:43:15), Mike Horan (791st, 1:48:35), Sue Boyle (793rd, 1:49:55), Marcia Downer (819th, 1:58:04) and Shirley Conner (820th, 1:59:09).

NYSD Cross-Country League Series - Event 3 04/11/07. Sunday also saw the third meeting of the NYSD Cross-Country League, at Guisborough. Bev Snook was 32nd in 35:21, while in the men's race, Peter Smith (59th, 46:20), Graham Park (60th, 46:24), Danny Gordon (102nd, 55:25) and Alan Prest (108th, 65:00) represented the club.

Derwentwater 10. Two runners from the club competed in Sunday's Derwentwater 10 at Keswick. Ian Scott was 37th in 1:01:15 and Robert Kirby finished 409th in 1:27:02.

Dublin Marathon 29/10/07. Congratulations to Richard Hughes, who last week ran in the Dublin Marathon. Richard paced himself perfectly to shatter the four-hour mark with a finishing time of 3:52:28.

27/10/2007 Press Report 22/10/07

Contributor: Phil Rutter

Richmond Castle 10k. 19 Quakers ran the Richmond Castle 10k on Sunday 21st October. On a mild, sunny morning, Nick Watson was the first from the club to complete the scenic, but arduous course, finishing 34th in 40:38. He was followed by Phil Rutter, 86th (44:53); David Todd, 91st (45:11); Stuart Hardcastle, 92nd (45:14); Ian Scott, 114th (46:23); Jon Eccles, 136th (46:12), Peter Rowley, 157th (48:34); Ian Hammond, 171st (49:11); Danny Gordon, 245th (52:28); Richard Payne, 247th (52:33); C. Watson, 276th (54:26) and Anthony Corbett, 293rd (55:23). Suzanne Todd was the first Quakers lady in 340th place (59:17), followed by Jason Simkiss, 354th (60:30); Sally Singleton, 356th (60:40); Anelli Simkiss, 361st (61:02); Carol Penney, 373rd (61:46); Heidi Fleary, 405th (65:53); and Sue Boyle, 415th (67:37).

27/10/2007 New outdoor equipment website offers discount to Quakers members

Contributor: Andrea Tucker

Members of the Quakers Running Club and Durham Fell Runners may remember me as I am an ex-member of both clubs. I have just re-launched my outdoor gear shop and website, stocking Karrimor, OMM, Montrail and more, and I am able to offer a discount on prices to Quakers Running Club members.

In May 2005, I and my partner Pete Kelly (Karrimor Pete to some), with nothing better to do, bought 'Budget Walker', a tired little outdoor clothing shop right in the heart of Ambleside in the Lake District. We have had little time for running since, but things have not stood still!

2007 began with much wall bending, re-modelling, painting, a lot more orange, and we re-opened just in time for Easter as Head to the Hills. After a very steep learning curve we have now gone 'live' on the web at HeadtotheHills.co.uk.

We currently stock a full range of outdoor clothing and equipment including rucksacks, hydration pouches, camping equipment, jackets, breathable T-shirts, socks, footwear and much more, from brands such as Trespass, Karrimor, Bridgedale, Keela, Icepeak and Gelert. We have just gained accounts with OMM (Original Mountain Marathon) and Montrail footwear ... so watch the website for our new range from OMM and Montrail, appearing soon.

All Quakers members can claim a 10% discount. To claim this discount simply go to HeadtotheHills.co.uk and open an online account. You can do this without buying anything. Then e-mail me at andrea@headtothehills.co.uk to tell me you're a Quakers Running Club member and quote your membership number. That's it! I will find your account and change it to a Quakers exclusive 10% discount account. Please note that clearance items, maps and guide books are excluded from discount.

Finally, you can sign up for our newsletter to receive useful local information from in and around Ambleside, including information about local events and special offers from Head to the Hills. And if you are ever looking for a place to stay in the heart of the Lakes, check out HeadtotheHills.co.uk.

HeadtotheHills.co.uk
"More adventure for your money"
2, Compston Road
Ambleside
(015394) 33826

19/07/2007 Business as usual

Contributor: Wayne Bramley

Would everyone please note that during the summer holiday period, training sessions will continue to take place at the school premises as normal - unless you are notified otherwise.

The caretaker is kindly allowing us access to the school grounds and will open up 'Trinity block' so that toilet facilities are available to the club if required.

Due to building contractors commencing work on the school's improvements (which will continue for the foreseeable future) there is a possibility that car parking will have to be out on Edinburgh Drive and in the adjacent streets.

It had been thought that in the light of the building work taking place that an alternative venue for training would need to be found and the Dolphin Centre was suggested as a possibility. This still may happen, but for the moment it's "business as usual" as far as club training nights are concerned.

03/07/2007 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Pier to Pier Sunderland 20/05/07. Five members of the Quakers Running Club made the trip to Sunderland for this popular point to point race, namely Wendy Colling, who finished in 60:59 (358th); Jackie Taylor, 64:14 (430th); Jill Wallis, 67:05 (497th); Alan Prest, 68:12 (511th); and Vivien Whitham, 72:28 (564th).

Swaledale Marathon 09/06/07. Three members of the club took part in this very challenging 23-mile fell race: Stuart Hardcastle, 5:45 (203rd); and Anthony Corbett and Richard Payne, both 7:16 (353rd and 354th).

Whorlton Run NEHRA Summer Series Race 5 19/06/07. Five members took part in this fell race: Nick Wadd, 50:00 (20th); Stuart Hardcastle, 57:22 (52nd); Clare Francis, 61:38 (65th); Anthony Corbett, 64:52 (69th); and Michael Joyeux, 66:54 (71st).

Summer Series 5k Marske 27/06/07. 10 members braved the wet conditions at Marske-by-the-Sea to run the third race of five in the New Marske Harriers summer series. First to finish was Stuart Hardcastle, in 19:53 (38th). Other Quakers' times were: Peter Smith, 19:52 (42nd); Graham Park, 20:07 (45th); Nick Mason, 20:12 (48th); Phil Rutter, 20:55 (56th); Jeff Marriott, 22:31 (79th); Richard Payne, 23:26 (90th); Anthony Corbett, 24:04 (94th); Vivianne Pow, 24:34 (96th); and Caroline Ridley-Marriott, 28:25 (125th).

Durham Dales Challenge - Wolsingham 01/07/07. Seven members of the club took part in this 16-mile trail run. Their finishing times were: Robin Towns, 3:12; Annette Clarke, 3:12; Denise Kelvey-Brown, 3:12; John Clarke, 3:12; Dave Thompson, 3:12; Danny Gordon, 3:18; and Anthony Corbett, 3:18.

28/05/2007 Race results

Contributor: Anthony Corbett

Fifteen Quakers took part in the second race of the Tees Forest Trail Series at Summerhill Park in Hartlepool. First Quaker home was Stuart Hardcastle in a time of 22 mins 16 secs. Other runners and times were: Wayne Bramley, 22:26; Nick Mason, 23:23; Ian Hammond, 24:09; Michael Joyeux, 24.30; Clare Francis, 24.47; Danny Gordon, 25.33; Jeremy Makin, 25.47; Sharron Towns, 25.50; Anthony Corbett, 26.39; Julie Whinn, 28.35; Diane Adkins, 30.06; Julie Giblin, 30.06; Clare Dodsworth, 33.08; and Sarah Beadle, 35.59.

20/05/2007 Quakers member helps to put a full stop to child cruelty

Contributor: Wayne Bramley

The following press release, relating to Quakers member Peter Rowley, was issued on behalf of Darlington Building Society last month.

Darlington Building Society chief helps to put a full stop to child cruelty

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of many supporters, a local businessman has helped the NSPCC to raise vital funds for the work it does in the region.

Peter Rowley, chief executive of Darlington Building Society, ran the Paris Half Marathon last month in aid of the NSPCC, the national charity that aims to put a full stop to child cruelty. He ran the 13.1 miles in 104 minutes, but more importantly he raised £8,510 which, when gift aid is claimed, will enable the charity to spend just under £11,000 on protecting vulnerable children in the region from neglect and abuse.

Jo Carter, Head of National Events for NSPCC, said: "We are really grateful to Peter and his small army of sponsors for raising such a large sum to help prevent child cruelty. A superb effort donations of this magnitude really make a difference."

In response, Peter said: "It is good to know that the money raised is going to such a great cause. I am really pleased that the help and generosity of many can be used to good effect."

The proceeds of the half marathon by Peter Rowley are equivalent to over 22% of the sums raised from voluntary activities by the NSPCC's six branches in County Durham and the Tees Valley last year.

Pickering & Moors 10k 22/10/06. Jeremy Smith was the only member of the Quakers Running Club to take part in this race. Jeremy finished 72nd with a time of 51:43.

Abingdon Marathon 22/10/06. Jeremy Makin was the only member to travel down to Oxfordshire to take part in this marathon. This was Jeremy's first ever marathon. He finished 550th with a time of 4:16:15.

Guy Fawkes 10 05/11/06. Ten members travelled down to Ripley, near Harrogate, for this challenging, hilly 10-mile race. Robin Towns was the first Quaker to finish, in a time of 1:17:38 (246th). Other Quakers' times were: Annette Clarke, 1:17:49 (255th); Peter Rowley, 1:23:57 (426th); Richard Payne, 1:28:30 (539th); Wendy Colling, 1:31:24 (602nd and a personal best time); Sharron Towns, 1:31:25 (603rd); Anthony Corbett, 1:31:39 (607th); Brendan Boyle, 1:34:31 (643rd); Melanie Fenner, 1:39:30 (740th and a personal best); and Sue Boyle, 1:49:20 (832nd).

Monkton Grand Prix, Jarrow, 05/11/06. Jemma Archbold of the Junior Quakers had a very good day on the track, running three personal bests in one day. Jemma won her heat of the 60 metres in 9.3 seconds and then finished 2nd in the final in 9.1 seconds (both times were personal bests). In the 450 metres, Jemma finished 2nd in 1:41, a personal best by 5 seconds. Jemma now stands 2nd with three events left in the series.

06/11/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

The weekend of 15th October was a very busy one for members of the Quakers Running Club. Not only was it the weekend of the club's annual trip to the continent (see Press Report 01/11/06), but Quakers members also took part in four other events.

Bridlington Half Marathon 15/10/06. It was a great day for one of the newest members of the club, Fiona Bailey. Fiona finished 3rd lady and 55th overall in a time of 1:24:58, setting a new personal best for herself and a new club record in the Ladies Vets - over 35 category.

Richmond Castle 10k 15/10/06. Five members made the short trip to Richmond, North Yorkshire, for the annual 10 km road race which takes place over a very hilly and challenging course. Phil Rutter was the first Quaker to finish, in a time of 43:18 (74th). Other Quakers' times were: Stuart Hardcastle, 44:29 (94th); Jonathon Eccles, 45:05 (104th); Peter Rowley, 49:44 (212th); and Anthony Corbett, 54:12 (289th).

Great Cumbria Half Marathon 15/10/06. Four members of the club drove over to Carlisle to take part in this half marathon. Alastair Tatham was the first to finish, in 14th place in a time of 1:17:26. Other Quakers' times were: Stuart Lynn, 1:25:29 (73rd); Ian Hammond, 1:47:48 (544th); and Paul Ranby, 1:52:59 (672nd).

NYSD Harrier League Meeting 1 - Summerhill, Hartlepool 15/10/06. Seven members took part in the first event in the North Yorkshire and South Durham Harrier League's programme. Quakers ladies' times and positions were: Adele Clark, 31:47 (52nd); Wendy Collings, 32:42 (57th); and Melanie Fenner, 33:04 (58th). Our men's times and positions were: Tim Makin, 33:53 (45th); Lee Coles, 38:08 (88th); G. Host, 39:25 (100th); and D. Todd, 39:27 (102nd).

01/11/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Reims 15/10/06. The Quakers Running Club staged its annual invasion of the continent, this year going to France to take part in the Reims 10k, half marathon and full marathon road races. Our group left Darlington at 06:00 on the Friday morning and returned on the Monday afternoon. A special thanks must go to Mike and Kathy Horan for all of their hard work in organising the weekend for our members. 36 Quakers took part in the various races on the Sunday.

10k results were: Tom Mason, 40:55 (193rd and a personal best time); Nigel Slater, 48:01 (749th); Dave McLachlan, 50:59 (1165th); Jeff Marriott, 51:32 (1263rd); Andy Downer, 53:13 (1493rd); Jeremy Smith, 53:23 (1532nd); Isabel Evans, 53:40 (1579th); Beverley Snook, 55:54 (1979th), Brendan Boyle, 57:01 (2151st); Robert Evans, 57:27 (2215th); Marcia Downer, 59:26 (2507th); Dawn Bramley, 61:04 (2764th); Mike Horan, 61:18 (2789th); Christine Crathorne, 61:33 (2829th); Shirley Conner, 61:35 (2837th); Gill Wallis, 61:38 (2844th); Pam Thirwell, 64:46 (3227th); Sue Boyle, 66:46 (3378th); and Richard Wall, 67:15 (3412th).

Half marathon results: Charles Bogg, 1:35:31 (495th); Graham Park, 1:40:38 (783rd); Peter Smith, 1:43:23 (962nd); Andrea Tucker, 1:55:42 (1820th); Keith Shevels, 2:01:13 (2098th); David Thompson, 2:15:36 (2435th); and Diane Adkins, 2:15:36 (2436th).

Marathon results: Wayne Bramley, 3:08:21 (123rd); Steven Snook, 3:26:47 (285th); Stephen Padgett, 4:04:56 (725th and a personal best time); Dave Giblin, 4:04:56 (726th and a personal best time); Annette Clarke, 4:04:56 (727th); Robin Towns, 4:04:56 (729th); Julie Giblin, 4:19:14 (835th); Sharron Towns, 4:26:01 (875th); David Mason, 4:26:01 (876th); and Trevor Archer 4:57:30 (955th).

02/10/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Our Girl in the West Indies. Bermuda's athletic season kicked off again on Monday, 4 September with a public holiday following a two-month break due to the heat and humidity which make it dangerous to race. The Labour Day five-miler was held under cloudy conditions but humidity was extremely high, making running conditions and breathing hard! Quaker Dawn Richardson was challenged in the early stages of the race but finally finished a minute ahead of the competition, finishing first female and 10th overall in a time of 32:30. The following weekend saw the start of the cross-country season. In heat exceeding 75 degrees, the 'dry' grassy, hilly trails through the Arboretum did not present any problems and Dawn finished 1st lady over the 5k course in 18:12.

Tees Pride 10k 17/09/06. 37 members of the Quakers Running Club made the short journey to Middlesbrough for the second running of this race. The newest member of the club, Fiona Bailey, finished impressively as 5th lady and 74th overall in a time of 39:08. Andrew Henderson took the honours for the men, finishing 22nd in 35:36. Other Quakers' times were: Ian Scott, 35:59 (26th); Wayne Bramley, 36:52 (40th); Stuart Lynn, 38:19; Steve Snook, 40:38 (106th); Peter Smith, 42:56 (184th); Charles Bogg, 43:35 (211th); Jonathon Eccles, 44:16 (234th and a personal best time); Richard Hughes, 44:21 (244th); Peter Rowley, 46:19 (341st); Diane Vaughan, 46:37 (357th); Jeff Marriott, 47:01 (376th); Robin Hughes, 49:38 (505th); Bev Snook, 49:53 (563rd); Adele Clark, 50:50 (661st, p.b.); Julie Giblin, 51:52 (705th); Sharron Towns, 50:31 (708th, p.b.); Annette Clarke, 50:31 (711th); Wendy Collings, 52:57 (779th); Toni Chaplin-Armer, 52:39 (780th, p.b.); Joanne Dewar, 52:53 (797th); Anthony Corbett, 52:27 (820th); Brendan Boyle, 54:14 (882nd); Claire Gargett, 54:37 (922nd); John Clarke, 55:00 (930th); Julie Whinn, 55:28 (955th); Jackie Taylor, 55:03 (1009th); Jade Beale-Towns, 56:17 (1056th); Michelle Boshier, 57:01 (1092nd); Diane Adkins, 59:25 (1164th); Dawn Bramley, 59:41 (1252nd); Sue Boyle, 62:40 (1307th); Graham Park, 61:59 (1313th); Gill Wallis, 64:26 (1351st); Bill Frankland, 64:16 (1393rd); Rachel Maddison, 69:05 (1513th); Michelle Paris, 68:49 (1508th, p.b.).

12/09/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Hartlepool Women-Only 5km Road Race 03/09/06. Three ladies from the Quakers Running Club took part in the second running of this event. Jean Brennan finished in 25:57 (19th), Julie Whinn in 28:15 (34th), and Gill Wallis in 30:40 (45th).

Tees Forest 5k Trail Races - Handicap Event 07/09/06. The final race in the summer 5k trail race series was held at Hummersknott School in Darlington, and to make things interesting it was a handicap race with the slowest runner starting first and the quickest starting last. Sharron Towns was the first member of the Quakers Running Club to finish, in 6th position. Other Quakers' positions were: Jeremy Makin, 7th; Danny Gordon, 9th; Diane Adkins, 12th; Ian Hammond, 17th; Anthony Corbett, 19th; Dave Thompson, 21st; Annette Clarke, 31st; Stuart Hardcastle, 36th; and Julie Giblin, 44th.

Ray Harrison Memorial 10k 10/09/06. Five members of the club took part in this local 10k. Peter Rowley was the first to finish, in 46:53 (106th). Other Quakers' times were: Jeff Marriott, 47:09 (108th); Brendan Boyle, 52:42 (183rd); Bill Frankland, 63:25 (249th); and Sue Boyle, 63:26 (250th).

29/08/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Tees Forest 5k Trail Races - Summerhill, Hartlepool 17/08/06. Five members of the Quakers Running Club took part in the final race in the Tees Forest 5k Trail Races series. Mikaela Walker continued her good form, finishing 2nd lady and 30th overall in 22:41. Stuart Lynn got his first-ever top-ten finish, finishing 9th in 19:55. Other Quakers' times were: Tim Makin, 20:41 (15th); Richard Payne, 27:46 (66th); and Jeremy Makin, 28:46 (74th).

Tees Forest 5k Trail Races Series Final Results. After five races spread over the summer months, the star performer for the Quakers was Mikaela Walker who finished 2nd in the senior ladies category and 31st overall. Other Quakers and their final positions were as follows: Stuart Hardcastle, 26th; Richard Payne, 52nd; Anthony Corbett, 53rd; Sharron Towns, 60th; Jeremy Makin, 62nd; Alan Prest, 71st; Stuart Lynn, 75th; Diane Adkin, 76th; Annette Clarke, 94th; Ian Stephenson, 98th; Ian Hammond, 100th; Danny Gordon, 104th; Jeff Marriott, 106th; Julie Giblin, 110th; Tim Makin, 145th; Robin Towns, 163rd; Mic Dougherty, 176th; and Dave Thompson, 186th.

25/08/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Darlington 10k 13/08/06. The Quakers Running Club was out in force to support its local race: 55 runners from the club took part. Alasdair Tatham was the best of the Quakers, finishing 8th in 33:53, and 15 members ran new personal bests: Andrew Sedgwick, 41:59 (169th); Stephen Padgett, 44:07 (244th); Richard Hughes, 44:16 (247th); Jon Eccles, 45:00 (281st); Jeff Marriott, 45:18 (290th); Anthony Corbett, 50:14 (480th); Claire Gargett, 52:39 (568th); Wendy Colling, 52:43 (573rd); Toni Chaplin-Armer, 53:20 (595th); Michelle Boshier, 56:15 (704th); Jennifer Lauder, 57:01 (728th); Celia Chapman, 57:51 (751st); Michelle Paris, 68:00 (880th); Gilly Lamb, 73:40 (922nd); Caroline Thomas, 76:32 (926th); and Alison Kelly, 76:32 (927th).

Other Quakers' times were: Stuart Lynn, 37:58 (47th); Nigel Slater, 39:46 (93rd); Steven Snook, 40:17 (110th); Lee Coles, 41:16 (135th); Graham Park, 41:34 (149th); Phillip Rutter, 41:36 (151st); David Whittle, 42:35 (188th); Robin Towns, 42:37 (189th); Stuart Hardcastle, 42:41 (191st); Mikaela Walker, 43:23 (219th); Peter Smith, 44:05 (243rd); David McLachlan, 44:46 (267th); Annette Clarke, 44:59 (280th); Daniel Gordon, 45:46 (309th); Peter Rowley, 46:25 (330th); Diane Vaughan, 47:38 (371st); C Watson, 48:48 (424th); Jeremy Makin, 50:16 (482nd); Beverley Snook, 50:55 (510th); Sharron Towns, 52:04 (546th); Brendan Boyle, 52:13 (551st); Richard Payne, 53:06 (586th); Robert Kirby, 53:20 (591st); Gemma Scougal, 54:16 (630th); Harry Manuel, 54:30 (635th); Jade Beale-Towns, 54:32 (636th); Jackie Taylor, 54:40 (646th); Vickie Wilson, 54:47 (653rd); Jean Brennan, 55:00 (658th); Alan Prest, 56:20 (708th); Tony Kendall, 56:24 (709th); Diane Adkins, 57:05 (729th); Julie Whinn, 57:18 (734th); Lynne Groves, 59:41 (789th); Debbie Lamb, 61:10 (818th); Sue Boyle, 62:12 (835th); Jill Wallis, 63:38 (849th); and Gill Robinson, 66:30(880th).

15/08/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Tees Forest 5k Trail Race 20/07/06. 11 members of the Quakers Running Club made the short journey to Stewart Park, Middlesbrough, to take part in the 4th race in this six-race series. Mikaela Walker was the star performer, finishing 3rd lady and 30th overall in 20:22. Other Quakers' times were: Stuart Hardcastle, 19:20 (17th); Rob Towns, 19:45 (26th); Ian Hammond, 21:16 (44th); Danny Gordon, 22:09 (50th); Jeff Marriott, 22:24 (52nd); Julie Giblin, 23:33 (65th), Anthony Corbett, 23:49 (68th); Sharron Towns, 24:19 (70th); Richard Payne, 25:30 (77th); and Diane Adkins, 27:00 (89th).

NEHRA Summer Fell Race Series. Two members of the club have been taking part in this race series. Race 7 was run over Roseberry Topping. Lee Coles finished 39th in 16:58 and Stuart Hardcastle finished 64th in 19:46. In race 8 at Guisborough, Lee finished 34th in 49:12 and Stuart 45th in 52:23.

London Triathlon 05/08/06. Three members travelled down to London to take part in the largest triathlon in the country. All three competed over the Olympic distance: a 1500m swim, 42km bike ride and 10km run. Richard Hughes, on his 40th birthday, completed the course in a time of 2:40:18 (31:24 swim, 1:13:34 bike, 47:19 run). Sharron Towns completed in 3:08:33 (34:14 swim, 1:32:48 bike, 55:06 run). Annette Clarke completed in 3:17:01 (43:53 swim, 1:38:19 bike, 49:18 run).

Auckland Castle 10k 06/08/06. Nine members took part in this local race at Bishop Auckland. Stuart Lynn produced his highest ever finish in a race, finishing 12th in 38:42. Other Quakers' times were: Peter Smith, 47:26 (126th); Jeff Marriott, 48:52 (137th); Anthony Corbett, 53:02 (187th); Paul Quinn, 53:41 (197th); Holly Taylor, 57:30 (238th); Jackie Taylor, 57:30 (239th); Wendy Collings, 59:35 (258th); and Diane Adkins, 60:49 (265th).

24/07/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Dawn just can't stop winning. On Sunday, 18th June, Dawn Richardson competed in the Athletic Club 5k race around the city of Hamilton, Bermuda. She finished 4th overall out of 61 runners, and 1st lady, with a time of 19:27. On Sunday, 25th June, in temperatures of 85 degrees Fahrenheit and 110% humidity, Dawn and training partner Otis Robinson took part in the Fidelity Couples Race. The Couples Race is one of the highlights of Bermuda's racing calendar. Men and women team up to form a couple, one of them running 5k and the other 5 miles. The two times are added together and the couple with the fastest time claims first prize. Otis nominated Dawn to run the longer of the distances and she finished 1st female in a time of 32:37, while Otis finished 1st male in the 5k. As a couple, they finished 4th overall.

Lyke Wake race 08/07/06. Five members of the Quakers Running Club took part in this challenging off-road 42-mile race. Tim Makin took part in the individual event and completed the course in 7 hours 19 minutes. Annette Clarke, Stuart Lynn, Charles Bogg and Rob Towns took part in the team event, and completed the course in 8 hours 32 minutes.

Presentation Evening 15/07/06. The club held its annual presentation evening at Mowden Rugby Club. The award winners were: Senior Female - Annette Clarke; Senior Male - Richard Hughes; Vet Female - Joanne Dewar; Vet Male - Stuart Hardcastle; Improved Female - Diane Vaughan; Improved Male - Dave Thompson; Junior Female - Jemma Archbold; Junior Male - Sam Giblin; Improved Junior Female - Zoe Hewitson; Improved Junior Male - William Iles; Senior Coach - Dave McLachlan; Junior Coach - Graham Park. The Chairman's award for services to the club went to Dave Thompson for all his hard work as membership secretary. The final award, the Catastrophe Trophy, went to Sharron Towns who, on the annual club trip, left her luggage at the wrong address, nearly causing a bomb scare in the west end of Darlington!

07/07/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Blaydon Race 09/06/06. Three members of the Quakers Running Club joined over 3,000 runners to take part in this race. Alasdair Tatham finished an excellent 32nd, in a time of 30:45. Richard Payne finished in 47:06 (1162nd), and Robert Kirby in 51:59 (1793rd).

Ed Sherlock 5-Mile Road Race (Bermuda) 11/06/06. Dawn Richardson continued her fine form, finishing 1st lady and 8th overall with a time of 32:30.

Thirsk 10 Mile 11/06/06. Six members of the club made the short journey down to Thirsk for this popular race. Despite having already marshalled the Race for Life in Darlington in the morning, they then ran 10 miles on one of the hottest days of the year. Ian Archbold was the first Quaker to finish, in 46th place with a time of 69:35. Other Quakers' times were: Wayne Bramley, 77:43 (98th); Steve Snook, 79:42 (111th); Peter Smith, 91:09 (207th); Julie Giblin, 91:58 (216th); and Robert Kirby, 97:16 (241st).

Tees Forest 5k Trail Race Series - Cowpen Bewley 15/06/06. Ten members took part in the 3rd race of the 5-race series. Stuart Lynn was the first Quaker to finish, in a time of 19:18 (8th). Annette Clarke was the 3rd lady to finish, in a time of 22:27 which placed her 35th overall. Other Quakers' times were: Stuart Hardcastle, 21:18 (28th); Ian Stephenson, 22:52 (37th); Danny Gordon, 24:23 (41st); Julie Giblin, 25:41 (46th); Anthony Corbett, 26:06 (49th); Sharron Towns, 26:51 (54th); and Alan Prest, 28:32 (63rd).

Rainton 10k 25/06/06. Steve Padgett was the only member of the club to take part in this race, but it was well worth the journey, as he finished in a time of 45:00, a new personal best.

Newton Aycliffe 10k 25/06/06. Ten members braved the summer drizzle to run in this local race. Alasdair Tatham finished 3rd, with a time of 33:53. Other Quakers' times were: Dave McLachlan, 43:16 (70th); Peter Smith, 44:33 (87th); Richard Hughes, 45:02 (93rd and a personal best); Jeff Marriott, 45:30 (98th, p.b.); Brendan Boyle, 53:26 (167th); Gemma Scougal, 54:25 (176th); Diane Adkins, 57:39 (190th); Lynne Groves, 57:40 (191st); and Sue Boyle, 62:21 (206th).

12/06/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Bermuda Half Marathon 24/05/06. The Bermuda Marathon Derby is Bermuda's equivalent of the London Marathon. It is held on a public holiday and is the race of the year in which all runners, local or ex-patriate, compete. It is followed by a large and vibrant carnival. This year, although Quaker Dawn Richardson had been on the Islands of Bermuda for only two months, the Bermuda Marathon Committee waived the compulsory rule that only residents that have been on the Islands for more than 6 months are allowed to compete. This caused much controversy in the local press and television although all runners seemed to be in favour of Richardson competing. On an apparently cool day for Bermuda (temperatures exceeding 75 degrees!), a record number of 650 athletes left the town of Somerset to race to the City of Hamilton. Dawn settled comfortably into 2nd position shortly after the start, and was quite content with that considering the heat and the previous two weeks' press attention. However, with 2 miles to the end, Dawn started to catch the leading female despite having been up to 3 minutes behind her earlier. Dawn finally pulled into first position with only half a mile to go, and won by a clear 20 seconds in a time of 1 hour 29 minutes. Dawn also finished in 28th overall. After the event, Dawn was presented with a large silver fruit bowl and considerable prize money. She was also presented with the females' large solid wood trophy, with her name engraved alongside those of previous winners over the last 96 years.

Fox and Hounds Fell Race 09/05/06. Two members of the Quakers Running Club took part in the 2nd race in the NEHRA summer fell race series. The race was run over an approximately 9 mile course. Anthony Corbett finished 69th, in 1:34:48, and Stuart Hardcastle finished 71st, in 1:35:10.

Tees Forest 5k Trail Race Series - Pinchinthorpe 25/05/06. Ten members of the Quakers Running Club took part in the 2nd race of this 5-race series. Stuart Hardcastle was the first to finish, in a time of 20:32 (41st). Other Quakers' times were: Mic Doughty, 21:32 (54th); Annette Clarke, 21:39 (55th); Ian Hammond, 21:57 (58th); Jeff Marriott, 23:07 (65th); Richard Payne, 23:26 (70th); Anthony Corbett, 24:20 (75th); Alan Prest, 26:50 (97th); Sharron Towns, 27:07 (100th); and Diane Adkins, 27:59 (105th).

Melmerby 10k 28/05/06. Two members made the short trip down the A1 for this well-established race. Ian Scott finished 4th overall and 1st in the over-50 category, with a time of 35:21. Stephen Padgett ran a personal best of 45:49 and finished 95th overall.

05/06/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Sir Stanley Burgess 5k (Jamaica) 06/05/06. Dawn Richardson continues to fly the Quakers Running Club flag in pastures much warmer than we have been getting. The 70-degree heat could not stop Dawn from winning this 5k road race with a new personal best time of 18:17.

Sheffield Half Marathon 14/05/06. Three members of the club travelled down to Sheffield for this Half Marathon. Out of a field of 3613 runners, Ian Scott proved that age is not a barrier by winning the over-50 category and finishing 13th overall, with a time of 1:16:25. Richard Hughes continued his great form, smashing his personal best by over 5 minutes to finish 1172nd in 1:43:42. Diane Vaughan finished 1395th in 1:46:03.

Ripon 10 Mile 14/05/06. Two members travelled down to Ripon for this 10 mile race. Steve Paggett finished 113th in a time of 1:17:30, a personal best by 3:30. Wendy Colling finished in 1:31:56 (227th).

Yorkshire 10k 14/05/06. Robert Kirby was the only member of the club to take part in this men-only fund raising race for Cancer Research. He finished in 52:44.

Beverley 10k 14/05/06. Stuart Lynn was the only member to travel down to Beverley for this fast 10k. Stuart finished in 38:42 (50th).

Quaker Triathlon 21/05/06. Eight members of the club took part in the individual event. Seven of these had never competed in a triathlon before. A further ten members took part in the team event. The triathlon consisted of a 400m swim, a 16.1 mile cycle and a 3.8 mile run. Andrew Sedgwick was the first Quaker to finish, in 35th place out of 116 competitors in a time of 1:18:13. The other Quakers all achieved personal bests: Steve Snook, 1:36:27 (54th); Stuart Lynn, 1:37:08 (58th); Richard Hughes, 1:37:45 (61st); Ian Hammond, 1:51:57 (90th); Annette Clarke, 1:53:01 (92nd); Sharron Towns, 1:56:27 (97th); and Danny Gordon 2:11:42 (111th).

Junior Quakers. Aimee and Jemma Archbold competed in the Anne Marie Redshaw Memorial Track Meet. In the under-11 60m, Jemma finished 10th out of 34 in 9.61 seconds. In the U13 100m, Aimee finished 14th of 20 in 15.20 seconds. In the U11 600m, Jemma finished 7th out of 24 in 2:18, and in the U13 800m Aimee finished 11th out of 16 in 2:52.

25/05/2006 Presentation night

Contributor: Graham Park

The annual Quakers Running Club presentation night will be held at Mowden Rugby Club on 15th July. This will start at 7:30 pm. To make the most of the disco we will be presenting the awards at 8:00 pm. There will be a raffle but no food. Tickets will be priced at £2 / Child and £4 / Adult.

For more information please contact Graham Park on (01325) 241626.

23/05/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

David Lloyd 10k (01/05/06). Seven members of the Quakers Running Club made the short trip to the Tees Barrage at Stockton to take part in the first running of this race. Disappointingly, others were turned away due to the race being over-subscribed. Husband and wife Richard Hughes and Diane Vaughan were the star performers on the day. Richard beat his previous best 10k time by over three minutes and finished 84th in a time of 45:48. Diane finished 93rd in 46:31, also a personal best, and was second lady in the O/35 category. Other Quakers' times were: Dave Whittle, 40:46 (29th), Jeff Marriott, 46:03 (89th and a personal best), Ian Hammond, 46:18 (91st), Brendan Boyle, 52:45 (190th), and Sue Boyle 60:42 (275th).

12/05/2006 Press Report

Contributor: Jeff Marriott

Wynyard Park 5k Trail Race 20/04/06. Eight members of the Quakers Running Club took part in the first race of the five-race Tees Forest 5k Trail Races series. Mikaela Walker was the star runner for the club on the day, finishing 31st out of the 103 competitors in a time of 21:36 and being the 3rd lady to finish. Other Quakers' times were: Stuart Hardcastle, 21:19 (26th), Ian Stephenson, 22:42 (44th), Dave Thompson, 22:58 (50th), Richard Payne, 24:32 (61st), Sharon Towns, 26:48 (77th), Alan Prest, 27:24 (83rd), and Diane Adkins, 28:11 (87th).

St. George's 10k 23/04/06. Richard Wall was the only member of the club to travel to Langdale. Richard finished in a time of 57:09 (214th).

Carlton Challenge 26/04/06. Two members of the club took part in the first race of the NEHRA summer fell series: Stuart Hardcastle, 47:22 (66th) and Richard Payne, 53:11 (95th).

Rothwell 10k 30/04/06. Ian Scott was the only member of the club to make the trip down to Leeds for this fast 10k road race. Ian was 19th out of 707 runners and first in the male over-50 category, and set a new club record for this category, with a time of 34:26.

Keswick Half Marathon 30/04/06. Three members of the club made the trip to the Lake District for this scenic Half Marathon. Phil Rae was the first Quaker to finish, in 91st place out of 523 runners with a time of 1:36:46. Other Quakers' times were: Peter Rowley, 1:46:33 (215th) and Roy MacDougall, 2:10:12 (424th).

Falcon Flyer Marathon 30/04/06. Dave Thompson was the only member of the club either brave enough or mad enough to take part in this fell marathon, which starts and finishes at Ravenscar and runs over uneven terrain and through waist-high heather and knee-deep peat bogs. Dave finished in an excellent time of 5:18:00.

Pier to Pier 7.5 mile 30/04/06. 15 members of the club made the short trip to Sunderland to take part in this annual fixture in the north-east's running calendar. Nine achieved personal best times for this unusual distance, including Wayne Bramley who was the first Quaker to finish, in 26th place out of the 547 runners, with a time of 43:58. Other Quakers' times were: Steve Snook, 45:59 (45th and a personal best), Robin Towns, 49:50 (116th, pb), Beverley Snook, 57:23 (301st, pb), Julie Giblin, 58:11 (317th

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