SALE SIZZLER 5K
30 June: A rather lower turnout than usual for the first in the Sale Sizzler 5k series. Runners took advantage of good racing conditions to produce a fast race. A great run by Zack Bamaber going sub 17 minutes to secure 1st U17 and 2nd junior male. 3rd V55 and 1st LV60 honours for Barry Chambers and Pauline Davies respectively.
Position | Name | Time | |
22 | Zack Bamber | 16.54 | 1st U17 |
50 | Tommy Armstrong | 17.58 | |
69 | David Shepherd | 18.48 | |
74 | Scott Bamber | 19.01 | |
168 | Barry Chambers | 22.08 | 3rd V55 |
195 | Pauline Davies | 23.36 | 1st V60 |
TOUGH TEAM
24 June: Heavy rain was welcomed by local farmers and Tough Team racers alike. VRAC members were represented in 4 teams with notable debuts in the famous vest for Steve MacNamara and Bob Corinaldi... and, according to the results, a game little fella 'P Chitterband'. Gemma Barnett's brilliant effort being 1st female home was tempered by the failure of her team to secure the mixed team prize - pipped by Ellesmere Port. Choose better team mates next time Gemma!
Team Name | Time | Name | Position | Time |
2 Kings & 1 Queen | Gemma Barnett | 41 | 67.14 | |
2 Kings & 1 Queen | 69.56 | Dave Haines | 60 | 69.56 |
2 Kings & 1 Queen | JohnTodd | 42 | 67.15 | |
Vale Royal A | Matt Sweeting | 67 | 70.53 | |
Vale Royal A | 70.53 | Darren Cottier | 68 | 70.53 |
Vale Royal A | P Chitterband | 66 | 70.52 | |
Runners with Excuses | Steve McNamara | 83 | 74.04 | |
Runners with Excuses | 74.43 | Mike Done | 82 | 74.03 |
Runners with Excuses | Bob C | 90 | 74.43 | |
Has Beens | Sonya Young | 101 | 76.19 | |
Has Beens | 102.03 | Sergey Ryabov | 105 | 76.56 |
Has Beens | Leanne Barlow | 154 | 102.03 |
LYMM 5K
25 June: An excellent turnout for the Lymm 5k with 20 VRAC vests on display. Some excellent performances below. Ladies were 4th placed team in the race, men 7th, 11th and 20th teams! Amelia Pettitt was first junior female home.
This race completed the North Cheshire 5k Grand Prix for 2011. Hannah Bishop won the series female junior prize, Pete Maher was second in the MV55 category, Jayne Lomax second in the F40 category and Sacha Humphries third in the F35 category.
<><><><><><><>Overall Position | Name | Time |
9 | Stu Doyle | 16.45 |
35 | Steve Caldwell | 18.12 |
39 | Tom Armstrong | 18.16 |
57 | Pete Maher | 18.51 |
60 | David Shepherd | 18.59 |
61 | Alex Mason | 19.00 |
65 | Scott Bamber | 19.09 |
71 | Ben Carter | 19.33 |
72 | Pete Clayton | 19.38 |
75 | Amelia Pettitt | 19.42 |
127 | Ian Newsham | 22.00 |
143 | Barry Chambers | 22.27 |
151 | Matthew Jakeman | 22.47 |
155 | Clara Pettitt | 22.55 |
156 | Jayne Lomax | 22.56 |
184 | Richard Pettitt | 24.10 |
195 | Stuart Jakeman | 25.05 |
203 | Paul Hudson | 25.08 |
209 | Sacha Humphries | 25.39 |
229 | Diane Newsham | 26.34 |
WHALEY WALTZ FELL RACE
25 June: Three very hardy ladies put the blokes the shame as the sole VRAC participants in the Whaley Waltz Fell race which includes crossing a deep and rather wide 'water feature'. Jo Edwards led the trio home to secure 1st LV45 followed by Val Kinvig and Pauline Davies. Good effort ladies. Full results and action video (video 2) here.
Overall Position | Name | Time | |
102 | Jo Edwards | 56.36 | 1st LV45 |
133 | Val Kinvig | 61.09 | 4th LV45 |
158 | Pauline Davies | 66.58 | 2nd LV60 |
DUNHAM MASSEY 5K
17 June: Another good turnout (helped in no small part by the Jakeman family!) at the latest race in the
Overall Position | Name | Time |
27 | CALDWELL, Steven | 18.05 |
41 | BAMBER, Scott | 18.46 |
77 | BISHOP, Hannah | 20.43 |
113 | CHAMBERS, Barry | 22.16 |
114 | JAKEMAN, Matthew | 22.17 |
121 | DENNY, Johanne | 22.34 |
124 | LOMAX, Jayne | 22.42 |
146 | JAKEMAN, Stephanie | 24.21 |
149 | JAKEMAN, Stuart | 24.36 |
155 | HUMPHRIES, Sacha | 25.19 |
LYME PARK FELL RACE SERIES
See below for the final two races in the Lyme Park Fell Race series (also see the Vanessa Chappell earlier report). CONGRATULATIONS to Jo Edwards on an excellent series vicory winning the LV40 category!
15 June Kettleshulme | 6m/1110ft Climb | ||
Overall Position | Name | Time | |
7th Lady | Jo Edwards | 58.28 | 1st LV40 |
8th June Boars Head | 8m/1322 ft Climb | ||
Overall Position | Name | Time | |
38 | Stephen Thompson | 56.50 | |
118 | Jo Edwards | 68.21 | 7th LV40 |
WELSH CASTLES RELAY (PHOTOS ADDED TO GALLERY)
The spirit of Vale Royal is reborn! After missing last year's race, it is great to see Vale Royal out in full force at the Welsh Castles relay. This 200 mile race from Caernarforn to Cardiff is over 20 stages and 2 days. The traditional heatwave was replaced by driving rain and so everyone can be proud of their performances. Congratulations in particular to Ben, Matt and Andrew who set new club records! - provisional results:
Pos | Name | Time | Route |
27 | Colin Rathbone | 1.09.58 | Caernarfon - Penygroes |
40 | Rob Oliver | 1.17.01 | Penygroes - Criccieth |
40 | Dave Haines | 1.27.27 | Criccieth - Maentrog |
50 | Diane Newsham | 1.21.29 | Maentrog - Harlech |
25 | Ben Carter | 1.08.33 | Harlech - Barmouth |
9 | Dave Gough | 1.08.56 | Barmouth - Dolgelleau |
35 | John Todd | 1.08.30 | Dolgelleau - Dinas M |
20 | Matt Sweeting | 1.11.40 | Dinas M - Foel |
25 | Steve Smith | 1.01.22 | Foel - Llanfair C |
46 | Iain Stanton | 1.39.20 | Llanfair C - Newtown |
23 | Darren Cottier | 1.24.39 | Newton - Llanbadarn F |
41 | Jo Edwards | 1.24.11 | Llanbadarn F - Crossgates |
38 | Ian Newsham | 1.18.37 | Crossgates - Builth Wells |
53 | Paul Clutterbuck | 1.31.25 | Builth Wells - Drovers |
5 | Andrew Miles | 1.15.27 | Drovers - Breckon |
40 | Gemma Barnett | 1.08.37 | Brecon - Beacons Res |
54 | Carol Williams | 1.20.21 | Beacons Res - Cyfarthfa |
43 | Pauline Davies | 1.13.08 | Myrthyr - Abercynon |
9 | Graham Miles | 1.10.03 | Abercynon - Caerphilly |
50 | Mary Taverner | 1.18.49 | Caerphilly - Cardiff |
Overall | 36th | ||
No. of teams | 58 |
MOUNTAIN DESIGNS GEOQUEST 2011 - AUSTRALIA
11/12 June: The second year in this event for Nathan Archer where teams of 4 tackle multiple legs including trekking (orienteering), mountain biking, kayaking and other 'mystery' challenges continuously with up to 48 hours for completion. A massive 4th place for Nath's team in the 'half' event and completion in 23 hours 50 mins. Soon after crossing the line the event was called off for the remaining teams due to safety concerns and flood risk! Good effort Nath! If you want a taste of the event take a look at the photostream here.
BOWDEN 5K
8 June: Another great run from the in form Steve Caldwell to break 18 minutes for the second time in the North Cheshire Grand Prix 5k series. Just 1 second slower than his PB at Dunham Massey. Scott Bamber also had an excellent outing to improve his recent PB at Dunham Massey by 11 seconds. As usual Pete Maher delivered a solid run to secure 2nd V55. John 'Click' Clarke will have been pleased to creep under 20 minutes with Hannah Bishop not too far behind. Jayne Lomax and Sacha Humphries completed a very successful event with further good performances.
Position | Name | Time | |
34 | Steve Caldwell | 17.58 | |
60 | Pete Maher | 18.46 | 2nd MV55 |
68 | Scott Bamber | 19.06 | PB |
86 | John Clarke | 19.59 | |
99 | Hannah Bishop | 20.33 | |
149 | Jayne Lomax | 22.57 | |
185 | Sacha Humphries | 25.46 |
COMBERBACH FETE 5K
22 May: Excellent podium finish for John Todd at the Comberbach Fete 5k.
Position | Name | Time |
2 | John Todd | 18.38 |
8 | Gemma Barnett | 20.22 |
16 | Matthew Jakeman | 21.42 |
24 | Barry Chambers | 22.39 |
27 | Jayne Lomax | 23.12 |
38 | StephanieJakeman | 25.01 |
40 | Stuart Jakeman | 25.17 |
CHESTER HALF MARATHON
15 May: Belated congratulations to Stu Doyle on a superb run to secure 2nd place overall at Chester.
Position | Name | Time | |
2 | Stuart Doyle | 1.13.02 | 1st MV40 |
441 | Steve Mcnamara | 1.39.36 | |
830 | Lee Scott | 1.48.38 | |
905 | Bob Corinaldi | 1.50.27 |
VANESSA CHAPPELL AND BOLLINGTON 3 PEAKS FELL RACES
Sorry folks, belated posting for the above two races. Well done Stephen, Jo and Val!
26 May: Vanessa Chappell Fell Race
Overall Position | Name | Time | |
38 | Stephen Thompson | 49.09 | |
109 | Jo Edwards | 60.31 | 1st LV40 |
14 May: Bollington 3 Peaks... 5.6 miles with 1200 ft of ascent!
Overall Position | Name | Time | |
62 | Jo Edwards | 56.20 | 4th LV40 |
82 | Val Kinvig | 63.19 | 6th LV40 |
WINCLE TROUT
4 June: 10 VRAC runners faced up to the popular but notoriously tough Wincle Trout fell race. Allegedly (according to Clutty that is!) this years route was the toughest of the three variants. Clutty either entered very early or was top seed as he proudly sported '1' as his race number. Led home with a strong run by Tommy Armstrong with Iain Stanton not too far behind showing his strength on the hills in this type of race. Full results and photos here
Overall Position | Name | Time |
20 | Tommy Armstrong | 46.00 |
31 | Iain Stanton | 47.58 |
44 | Chris Weeks | 49.52 |
71 | Stephen Thompson | 52.43 |
78 | Dave Haines | 53.06 |
108 | Paul Clutterbuck | 55.42 |
121 | Jo Edwards | 56.55 |
190 | Val Kinvig | 63.00 |
206 | Janet Snow | 64.45 |
262 | Caroline Thompson | 73.07 |
Team | 6th |
HOLLINS GREEN 5K
4 June: A good turnout and a nice cross section of age ranges at Hollins Green. Some excellent results for the junior contingent. A successful and eventful day for the club chairman seeing his daughter first placed in her category... beating his own target time comfortably... and assisting a 64 year old blood soaked drunken cyclist on the way home. All part of the rich tapestry of running! Well done all.
Overall Position | Name | Time | |
15 | Zack Bamber | 17.05 | 1st Male Junior |
29 | Mike Vennard | 17.45 | 3rd Male Junior |
43 | Steve Caldwell | 18.27 | |
48 | Gary Weedall | 18.40 | |
55 | Pete Maher | 19.01 | 4th V55 |
64 | Scott Bamber | 19.19 | |
69 | Jessica Parsons | 19.34 | 1st Female Junior |
102 | Hannah Bishop | 21,47 | 2nd Female Junior |
140 | Alan Parsons | 23.54 | |
142 | Jayne Lomax | 24.03 | 2nd LadyV40 |
169 | Sacha Humphries | 25.54 |
Teams - Ladies 2nd: Parsons, Bishop, Lomax. Men 4th Bamber, Vennard, Caldwell, Weedall
BUXTON HALF MARATHON
29 May: three toughy's tackled the 30th Buxton half marathon renowned for it's long climbs and descents. Very respectable 1.35 from Toddy with Gemma posting a top 10 finish in the ladies field just 5 minutes further back. Clutty limbering up for Drovers posted an excellent 1.49 and is now brimming with confidence that he can snatch the Drovers record from Nicky.
(368 finishers)
Overall Position | Name | Time |
56 | John Todd | 1.35.30 |
96 | Gemma Barnett | 1.40.48 |
168 | Paul Clutterbuck | 1.49.00 |
SALE 5
30 May: 'On fire' Steve Caldwell continues his purple patch at Sale. Category wins for Colin and Pauline. And creditable team finishes for the ladies. Well done all. Full results here
Overall Position | Name | Time | |
36 | Steve Caldwell | 30.13 | |
45 | Pete Maher | 30.51 | 6th V55 |
96 | Colin Rathbone | 35.12 | 1st V65 |
114 | Jo Edwards | 36.22 | 5th L45 |
145 | Pauline Davies | 39.44 | 1st L60 |
156 | Val Kinvig | 40.51 | 9th L45 |
157 | Janet Snow | 41.00 | 7th L50 |
174 | Carol Williams | 42.20 | 3rd L55 |
Team Results | |||
Men | Calwell, Maher, Rathbone | 9th | |
Ladies | Edwards, Davies, Kinvig | 4th | |
Lady Vets | Edwards, Davies, Kinvig | 3rd |
DUNHAM MASSEY 5K
27 May: It didn't take long. Sure enough Steve Caldwell broke the 18 min barrier. Congratulations! Some other excellent runs and times at Dunham Massey which is not renowned as a fast course. A big PB for Scott Bamber and high V55 finish for Pete Maher and 1st junior lady for Ameleia Pettit. Good day at the office for VRAC. Full results here
Overall Position | Name | Time | |
36 | Steve Caldwell | 17.57 | PB |
55 | Pete Maher | 18.47 | 3rd V55 |
59 | Amelia Pettit | 18.49 | PB 1st Junior Lady |
72 | Scott Bamber | 19.17 | PB |
107 | Hannah Bishop | 20.53 | PB |
141 | Barry Chambers | 21.57 | |
153 | Clara Pettit | 22.44 | PB? |
165 | Richard Pettit | 23.33 |
ALDERLEY EDGE 5K
22 May Another superb PB for Steve Caldwell at the Alderley Edge 5k and a top-5 finish. The sub-18 minute 5k looks like his next target.
5 | Steve Caldwell | 18:21 |
LANZAROTE IRONMAN TRIATHLON
21 May: A superb personal achievement for Jo Molyneaux at the Lanzarote IronMan. Jo finished the event in 13 hrs 59 minutes with a very respectable 4:19 final marathon! Time for some rest Jo! Jo's facebook status: "Jo Moly is an Ironman! Sprint finish ensured time of 13:59:48. Swim 1:23, bike 7:53, run 4:19. Well happy :-)"
SANDSTONE TRAIL RACE (The long version!)
21 May: An excellent run by Tommy Armstrong over the 33-mile Sandstone Trail - finishing in an impressive 5:14 for 5th place. That included a wrong turn too!
5 | Tom Armstrong | 5:14 |
BUPA GREAT MANCHESTER RUN
15 May: 6 VRAC runners joined the multitudes at the BUPA Great Manchester Run 2011. Two excellent PB's. One for Steve Caldwell who now has sub 38 minutes in his sights and another for Scott Bamber. Bearing in mind Scott's return from injury his time just outside 40 minutes was all the more impressive.
Position | Name | Time |
214 | Steve Caldwell | 38:10 |
438 | Scott Bamber | 40.08 |
4257 | Matthew Griffiths | 48:18 |
8730 | Hannah Weedall | 53:07 |
11785 | Chris Griffiths | 56:02 |
18789 | Helen Brockley | 63:19 |
MOBBERLEY ROUND THE RUNWAY
12 May: 5 excellent results from the Mobberley Round the Runway race over the novel distance of 5.3 miles. Led home in style by Alex Mason and then Vets placings for Colin, Jayne, Pauline and Carol. The latter 3 also secured 2nd ladies team ahead of Macclesfield (Wilmslow in 1st place). Well done all:
Position | Name | Time | |
20 | Alex Mason | 33.39 | |
75 | Colin Rathbone | 37.52 | 1st V65 |
116 | Jayne Lomax | 40.52 | 2nd LV40 |
123 | Pauline Davies | 41.22 | 1st LV55 |
167 | Carol Williams | 45.59 | 3rd LV55 |
NORTHFACE 100 BLUE MOUNTAINS AUSTRALIA
******MORE Pics added to Gallery******
14 May: Congratulations to Nathan Archer on his outstanding achievement in completing one of the toughest endurance foot races in the world - The NorthFace 100. A 100k (62+ miles) trail race held in the Blue Mountains National Park, Australia. Nathan's build up to the race was uncertain with a leg injury that responded to treatment and taping from one of Nicky's Kinesio contacts down under!! Duly taped Nathan competed the race in 18 hrs 49 minutes, well under his target time of 20 hours. 367th out of over 700 competitors. Stage details below.
Position | Checkpoint | Time |
402 | 38k Dunphys | 05:50:47 |
383 | 54k Old Ford Reserve-In | 08:35:37 |
375 | 54k Old Ford Reserve-Out | 08:50:13 |
378 | 67k Katoomba Aquaticl-In | 10:53:28 |
367 | 67k Katoomba Aquatic-out | 11:29:34 |
360 | 89k Queen Vic Hospital -In | 15:51:13 |
354 | 89k Queen Vic Hospital-Out | 16:05:52 |
367 | 100k Fairmont | 18:49:32 |
MARKET DRAYTON 10K
8 May: Five VRAC runners completed the Market Drayton 10k in blustery conditions with some excellent performances. An outstanding 3rd place for Stu Doyle and another V65 victory for Colin.
3 | Stu Doyle | 33.27 |
149 | Colin Rathbone | 45.09 |
388 | Pauline Davies | 51.30 |
398 | Diane Newsham | 51.51 |
548 | Carole Williams | 54.48 |
HAWKSHEAD TRAIL RACE
7 May: Matt and Richard travelled up to the Lakes to run the beautiful Hawkshead trail race.
157 | Matt Brown | 1.36.02 |
353 | Richard Keeling | 2.00.30 |
CHRISTLETON 5K
6 May: A big PB for the fast improving Steve Caldwell - but the competitive instincts kept Gary in front (for now!).
67 | Gary Weedall | 18.15 |
72 | Steve Caldwell | 18.28 |
101 | Pete Maher | 19.40 |
110 | John Clarke | 19.51 |
LICHFIELD HALF MARATHON
1 May: A big improvement for Alex Mason over the half marathon distance but a little short of his 1:30 target. That'll come soon!
52 | Alex Mason | 1.31.23 |
RUN THE BRIDGE '5'
24 April: Big squad out for the Run the Bridge 5 mile at Runcorn, Gar Weedall bringing the squad home and Tessa McCormick our first lady. Ben Carter ran well in his first run for the club and there were excellent PB's for Stece and Jayne!
51 | Gary Weedall | 30.44 |
60 | Steve Caldwell | 31.36 |
68 | Tessa McCormack | 31.58 |
77 | Peter Clayton | 32.21 |
90 | Amelia Pettitt | 32.43 |
191 | Ben Carter | 36.07 |
205 | Ian Newsham | 36.32 |
231 | Barry Chambers | 37.10 |
269 | Jayne Lomax | 38.17 |
344 | Richard Pettitt | 40.17 |
363 | Gemma Mayled | 40.39 |
VIRGIN LONDON MARATHON 2011
Results are in! Colin Rathbone was the hero of the hour as he has been so many times at London. 1st MV65 by 10 minutes is a superb achievement - even more so considering the set backs he has had this winter. He was reporting to have his "bad chest" back but that couldn't have held him back much. Well done Colin - we're all very proud of you! Not heard news of reactions to the other performances but the hot conditions look like they may have affected a few.....more news to follow.
Half | Full Distance | |
Colin Rathbone | 1:32:44 | 3:12:52 |
Graham Miles | 1:28:22 | 3:20:28 |
Mark Thornley | 1:31:13 | 3:25:53 |
John Todd | 1:31:46 | 3:27:26 |
Dave Haines | 1:35:04 | 3:44:49 |
Rob Olliver | 1:41:51 | 3:47:22 |
Gemma Barnett | 1:40:02 | 3:51:21 |
AIR PRODUCTS 10k
Sorry for the late result posting: Stu was on top form at the Air Products 10k in Crewe. A superb sub-35 minute run for Roger Alsop and another 1st MV65 for Colin,
8 | Stuart Doyle | 33.47 |
18 | Roger Alsop | 34.58 |
56 | Gary Weedall | 38.10 |
66 | John Carter | 39.02 |
110 | Colin Rathbone | 43.08 |
142 | Ian Newsham | 45.04 |
180 | Jayne Lomax | 48.12 |
240 | Carole Williams | 54.22 |
SPRING '5'
A good night for racing at the Spring 5 in Chester. Tessa was 1st junior lady, Colin was 1st V65 and Pauline 2nd LV55.
61 | Pete Maher | 31:59 |
70 | Tessa McCormick | 32.19 |
73 | Steve Caldwell | 32:33 |
110 | John Clarke | 34:25 |
143 | Colin Rathbone | 35:49 |
171 | Mary Tavener | 36:58 |
230 | Pauline Davies | 39:53 |
RADCLIFFE MULTI-TERRAIN 10K
With both 3rd in their age categories, it was a rare trip home without any prizes for Col & Carole. Colin a bit disappointed with his form but we all know it'll appear again at London!
108 | Colin Rathbone | 46:38 |
198 | Carole Williams | 57:26 |
WILMSLOW HALF MARATHON
27 March: Fast conditions for the popular Wilmslow Half Marathon. Excellent PB's for Steve Caldwell, Mel (with her lifetime ambition of beating her Dad at Wilmslow fulfilled, what will Mel target now?!) and Ian, and so with John Carter beating his comeback target too, it was a successful day out for the squad! Dave Gough was our first home (just) and Mel was our first lady in 1:33.
181 | Dave Gough | 1:24:47 |
182 | Mark Thornley | 1:24:48 |
308 | John Carter | 1:28:58 |
310 | Steve Caldwell | 1:29:06 |
365 | Pete Clayton | 1:30:10 |
509 | Mel Johnson | 1:33:49 |
554 | Rob Olliver | 1:34:26 |
808 | Ian Newsham | 1:39:37 |
1190 | Jayne Lomax | 1:45:41 |
MUDDY BOTTOMS 9/17
27 March: Something different for Colin this week - a 17 mile cross-country event in Bamber Bridge near Preston. The race involved significant navigation which added a fun element. Tom was along for the ride and his navigational errors contributed to a finishing distance of 18.5 miles....it didn't help that a marshal sent them the wrong way! Pauline and Carole both enjoyed the 9 miler to (which seemed to measure closer to 10 miles). An enjoyable race but very low key!
17 Miler: | ||
12 | Colin Rathbone | 2:44:58 |
13 | Tom Annable | 2:44:58 |
9 Miler: | ||
36 | Pauline Davies | 1:49:38 |
46 | Carole Williams | 1:58:54 |
WORLD CROSS-COUNTRY CHAMPS
19 March: Stevie Stockton had a fine run in the World XC Champs in Punta Umbria in Spain. Stevie finished in an excellent 37th place and in doing so was 3rd Britain and 7th European - and less than two minutes behind the winner!
37 | Stevie Stockton | 27:06 |
NORTHERN VETS/ST ANNES 10
20 March: Colin and Carole were the only Vale Royal runners at the Northern Vets 10 mile championships in St Annes, Lytham. However both returned back as winners of their age categorys with terrific runs over the very flat course! More trophies for the cabinet! In the open race, Col and Carole were 2nd and 3rd respectively in their age categories.
1 MV65 | Colin Rathbone | 1:12:56 |
1 LV55 | Carole Williams | 1:29:42 |
SPEN 20
13 March: Very encouraging form for Colin at the tough Spen 20 mile race. Colin was 43 secnds quicker than last year and a superb 1st MV65.
85 | Colin Rathbone | 2:32:59 |
TRAFFORD 10k
13 March: A very fast 10k for Stu Doyle at the Trafford 10k and and excellent sub-40 minute run for Steve Caldwell.
50 | Stu Doyle | 33:18 |
170 | Steve Caldwell | 39:38 |
TRIMPELL 20
6 March: The Trimpell 20 on a perfect day is about as fast a 20 miler as you could hope for, but the race is about building miles for London:
91 | John Todd | 2.21.22 |
99 | Dave Gough | 2.23.09 |
100 | Mark Thornley | 2.23.11 |
106 | Rob Olliver | 2.24.49 |
129 | Gemma Barnett | 2.28.01 |
295 | Jo Molyneaux | 3.00.52 |
INTER-COUNTIES CROSS-COUNTRY
5 March: The inter-counties cross-country saw several Vale Royal runners representing their county. In the men's race, Tom Carter showed good form to finish well up the field and in the ladies race Stevie Stockton showed again how good she is over the country. Andy Clews and Kate Spilsbury led the way in the U20's races.
SM | ||
111 | Tom Carter | 39.27 |
169 | Stuart Doyle | 40.38 |
196 | Chris Perry | 41.26 |
SW | ||
7 | Stevie Stockton | 28.32 |
119 | Kate Spilsbury | 32.19 |
U20M | ||
35 | Andrew Clews | 27.34 |
U20W | ||
59 | Kathy Stringer | 24.58 |
126 | Gemma Mayled | 30.47 |
CLOUD 9 RACE
6 March: A good turn out for the popular Cloud 9 Hill race at Congleton. Darren is gradually returning to top form and led the squad home in 66 minutes but the big improver was Paul C who took 9 minutes off his best time over the course. Photos on Bryan Dale's site.
38 | Darren Cottier | 1.06.08 |
80 | Dave Thompson | 1.09.11 |
112 | Gregory Lambert | 1.12.19 |
217 | Paul Clutterbuck | 1.19.46 |
223 | Ian Newsham | 1.20.18 |
247 | Steve Smith | 1.22.02 |
248 | Jayne Lomax | 1.22.03 |
315 | Valerie Kinvig | 1.29.03 |
WREXHAM HALF MARATHON
27 February: Not the usual fast times associated with the Wrexham Half but an excellent PB for Iain Stanton and some solid preparation for the marathon runners. Graham was first home with the only sub 1:20 run of the day. A tightly bunched club group was led home by Toddy. Gemma was first club lady with a respectable 1:34..
30 | Graham Miles | 1.19.23 |
125 | John Todd | 1.28.47 |
137 | Mark Thornley | 1.29.28 |
138 | David Haines | 1.29.28 |
139 | Dave Gough | 1.29.29 |
149 | Iain Stanton | 1.30.53 |
159 | Robert Olliver | 1.31.51 |
182 | David Murphy | 1.34.33 |
189 | Gemma Barnett | 1.34.50 |
233 | Mary Tavener | 1.38.34 |
NATIONAL XC CHAMPIONSHIPS - ALTON TOWERS
At the National XC at Alton Towers, the heavy rain had produced the worst mud many had ever seen (only Glastonbury veterans would have experienced such conditions!). Another great performance from Stevie Stockton in the senior ladies race finishing in 6th place - probably a disappointment after last years performance but still terrific. Unfortunately we can't get a full ladies squad out to support Stevie but Kate ran strongly again as did an in form Pauline. In the men's race, Stu had a very strong run in conditions you wouldn't expect to suit him. Good to see Tom Carter competing again albeit finding the going very tough! Colin is showing some improving form too - encouraging signs for the big race in April. The club highlight in the junior races was Andy Clews 26th place - a typically gutsy performance. Plenty of great performances by the youngsters too. Check out the main club site for highlights.
Senior Ladies | ||
6 | Stevie Stockton | 24.42 |
82 | Kate Spilsbury | 28:05 |
407 | Pauline Davies | 36:31 |
Senior Men | ||
124 | Stu Doyle | 40:26 |
139 | Tom Carter | 40:45 |
1117 | Colin Rathbone | 1:00:30 |
Junior Women | ||
32 | Kathy Stringer | 29:26 |
103 | Gemma Mayled | 38:21 |
Junior Men | ||
26 | Andy Clews | 30:35 |
167 | Andy Perry | 37:44 |
MDCC XC Match #5 - CLAYTON VALE
13 February: The Manchester league has had only a small turn-out from the club this season. The new Clayton Vale venue was excellent and one to look out for next year. Pauline followed up her victory in the North Wales league LV55 category with overall victory in the MDCC league too. A rare Vale Royal success in this league - so well done Pauline.
Senior Men | ||
155 | Colin Rathbone 1st V65 | 49.05 |
176 | Richard Pettitt | 54.56 |
Senior Ladies | ||
69 | Pauline Davies 2nd F55 | 40.17 |
95 | Carole Williams | 46.09 |
RADCLIFFE 10
6 February: A small turn out for the Radcliffe 10 with Iain Stanton making his second racing outing of the weekend.
54 | Iain Stanton | 1.14.40 |
108 | Barry Chambers | 1.24.08 |
ALSAGER 5
6 February: A good turn out at the popular Alsager 5. In windy conditions (as usual), the squad was headed by Gary Weedall with Pete Maher not far behind but picking up the MV55 prize.
98 | Gary Weedall | 30.42 |
131 | Pete Maher 1st V55 | 31.38 |
153 | Steve Caldwell | 32.11 |
355 | Colin Rathbone 3rd V65 | 37.19 |
438 | Jayne Lomax | 39.09 |
505 | Pauline Davies | 40.45 |
587 | Valerie Kinvig | 42.26 |
668 | Carole Williams | 44.36 |
NORTH WALES XC LEAGUE MATCH #5 - OSWESTRY
5 February: The last match of the Welsh XC league at Oswestry was run in extremely wet conditions - which, of course, is why cross-country is so much fun! Great to Iain Stanton out on the country as he brought the senior men home. Rob showed much improved form and was pleased to claim Hainsey's scalp! Pauline Davies was a superb winner of the ladies V55 in this match and in so doing claimed the gold in that category for the season. Carole was 3rd overall and took bronze for the season. Well done to the team.
Senior Men | ||
59 | Iain Stanton | 44.17 |
73 | Rob Olliver | 46.05 |
78 | Dave Haines | 46.31 |
113 | Colin Rathbone 3rd V65 | 52.56 |
Senior Ladies | ||
40 | Pauline Davies 1st F55 | 28.35 |
60 | Carole Williams 3rd F55 | 32.51 |
NORTHERN XC CHAMPS
29 Jan: On a fantastic day for the club, on a muddy and hilly course in Sunderland, the undoubted star was 16 year old Megan Huxley who not only enjoyed an emphatic victory in the Under 17 girls race, but also led the clubs team to the silver medals. There were other excellent runs from many of the club who made the journey north included amongst these were Andy Clews (6th Under 20 mens) and Kathy Stringer (10th Under 20 ladies) superb runs to place so highly amongst the best runners in the region.
Senior Men | ||
59 | Iain Stanton | 44.17 |
73 | Rob Olliver | 46.05 |
78 | Dave Haines | 46.31 |
113 | Colin Rathbone 3rd V65 | 52.56 |
Senior Ladies | ||
40 | Pauline Davies 1st F55 | 28.35 |
60 | Carole Williams 3rd F55 | 32.51 |
HELSBY HALF MARATHON
23 Jan: As usual a very good turnout saw 19 VRAC runners at 30th running of the Helsby 4 Village`s Half Marathon. In ideal calm, cool, cloudy conditions there were some excellent performances led home by Stu Doyle with a superb sub 1.15 time. Tommy Armstrong's marathon training clearly showing through with an impressive time. Pete Maher was obviously delighted to be off the mud and back on the road and secured 2nd V55 honours. Strong finishing Mark Thornley should take a big boost in confidence for his future marathon/ironman exploits. Tony Archer was delighted to get close to his PB and Dave Haines very satisfied with a sub 1.30 finish. Credit to an under par Gemma for turning out with tonsilitis. Clutty and Steve Smith ran together and alledgedly crossed the line holding hands! Well done everyone (great to see Val Kinvig racing again) . Full results here
17 | Stuart Doyle | 01:14:30 |
79 | Tom Armstrong | 01:21:26 |
134 | Peter Maher | 01:25:34 |
139 | Mark Thornley | 01:26:06 |
148 | Tony Archer | 01:26:50 |
200 | David Haines | 01:28:46 |
250 | John Todd | 01:30:38 |
277 | John Carroll | 01:32:22 |
386 | John Clarke | 01:35:25 |
435 | Gemma Barnett | 01:36:54 |
457 | Mary Tavener | 01:38:11 |
680 | Ian Newsham | 01:42:50 |
753 | Joanne Edwards | 01:44:14 |
779 | Steve Smith | 01:45:37 |
780 | Paul Clutterbuck | 01:45:37 |
1102 | Valerie Kinvig | 01:53:47 |
1247 | Janet Snow | 01:58:50 |
1272 | Diane Newsham | 02:00:39 |
1303 | Karen Midgley | 02:01:29 |
NORTH WALES XC LEAGUE - MATCH #4
21 Jan: The 4th league match of the season at Lilleshall near Telford saw Pauline win her age category with Carole taking 3rd. The men did well too with Colin finishing 2nd M65 and young Rob finishing in his highest position to date in the overall race.
Senior Men | ||
73 | Rob Olliver 43.13 | |
107 | Colin Rathbone 2nd V65 49.06 | |
Senior Ladies | ||
36 | Pauline Davies 1st F55 27.57 | |
53 | Carole Williams 3rd F55 32.37 |
GREAT WINTER RUN
8 Jan: Steve Caldwell made the long journey to Edinburgh for the Great Winter Run 5k in Edinburgh. Despite the freeszing cold and snowy conditions Steve enjoyed the race and the trip!
40 | Steve Caldwell | 20:18 |
CHESHIRE CHAMPS XC - SUCCESS AGAIN FOR VRAC!
8 Jan: Congratulations to all those who braved the mud and surface water to represent the club at this years Cheshire Champs at Birchwood. Some excellent junior and senior performances with the mens senior squad (Carter, Perry, Doyle, Cross, Archer, Stanton) securing 2nd place in the team event. A fantastic result given the absence of several fast runners. Tom Carter, Chris Perry and Stu Doyle were all top 5 finishers with vets medals for Tony Archer (3rd V55), John Davies and Colin Rathbone (2nd and 3rd V65 respectively), Pauline Davies and Carol Williams (2nd and 3rd V55 respectively). Andy Clews continued his excellent form with a convincing victory in the U20 category. Well done everyone! Full results here Results.
Senior Men | ||
2 | Tom Carter | 39.36 |
3 | Chris Perry | 39.41 |
5 | Stuart Doyle | 40.34 |
38 | Zack Cross | 47.29 |
46 | Tony Archer 3rd V55 | 48.13 |
68 | Iain Stanton | 51.03 |
76 | Pete Maher | 52.11 |
93 | Rob Oliver | 54.06 |
110 | John Davies 2nd V65 | 58.26 |
114 | Colin Rathbone 3rd V65 | 59.41 |
Senior Women | ||
5 | Kate Spilsbury | 36.57 |
34 | Pauline Davies 2nd V55 | 50.12 |
36 | Carol Williams 3rd V55 | 56.40 |
U20 Men | ||
1 | Andy Clews | 31.10 |
4 | James Stringer | 35.30 |
6 | Andy Penny | 36.54 |
U20 Women | ||
3 | Kathy Stringer | 24.07 |
6 | Charlotte Mills | 31.36 |
7 | Gemma Mayled | 35.07 |
MDCC - WOODBANK PARK
1 Jan: A superb performance from Vale Royal ladies with Stevie Stockton a winner of the latest round of the Manchester league at Woodbank Park. Following up was a terrific Kate Spilsbury who finished an excellent 3rd place - continued improvement. Supporting the top 2 were Pauline Davies and Carole Williams who finished 77th and 103rd respectively. Stu Doyle had another fine run too in 7th place in the men's race.
1 | Stevie Stockton | 23:37 |
3 | Kate Spilsbury | 26:17 |
77 | Pauline Davies | 35:01 |
103 | Carole Williams | 39:11 |
7 | Stu Doyle | 34:49 |
136 | Pete Maher | 43:49 |
210 | Richard Pettitt | 54:41 |