<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 27/04/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 27 April 2025
Last week at Crystal Palace parkrun your editor bumped into an old member, who had been President, Secretary and newsletter editor at a time when there were almost more roles than members. He said that one year in the 80s Kent had two entrants into the London Marathon, of which he was one – and he was the only one who finished!
Today we had 67 starters and 62 finishers, one of the largest club representations in the race, which shows how far we’ve come as a club. And despite the unwelcome heat, which made the job harder than expected, we had some fine results, including first place in the mass event for John Gilbert, and even a few PBs. Full report below.
Ross Braden and John Gilbert
The London Marathon wasn’t the only event this weekend. We also had the Mini Marathon – much talked about as the foundation for many future champions, including Alex Yee – in which we had several Kent AC juniors – full report below.
We also had our first KYAL event of the year, in Ashford, shorn of some talent taking mart in the mini marathon, but nevertheless our juniors did well. Full results aren’t yet available, there will be a report next week.
There was also a marathon in Manchester, and some Kent runners who couldn’t get a London place ran there instead. Well done to Richard Giles (2:44:30 4th M45), Arejeet Nag (2:50:58 PB), Luis Molina (2:51:56 PB), Caoimhe nic Fhogartaigh (2:57:49 2nd W45), Joseph Wilkes (3:04:32) and coach Ted Aston (5:11:29)
Richard and Caoimhe
Arejeet, Luis and Joe
There were a couple of non-marathon results this week – Jake Simmonds (14:55) and George Copping (16:03) in the Friday Night Under the Lights 5k race in Battersea. And Pierre Flasse ran the Magna Carta half in 1:40:20.
Don’t forget the Assembly League in Victoria Park this Thursday, mails will be sent out about the race. No need to sign up in advance, turn up, grab a number and put name and number on the spreadsheet (link will be provided by mail and whatsapp), run then drink!
LONDON’S BURNING!
On one of the warmest days of the year so far, which put paid to PB ambitions for most, one Kent runner inevitably got most of the media attention – Alex Yee, running his first marathon, indeed his first race longer than 10k – and he performed highly creditably, coming 14th, the 2nd Brit home behind fellow Olympian Mahamed Mahamed, in 2:11:08.
How hard was that?
Apart from Alex, unarguably the Kent performance of the day was by John Gilbert. Continuing his phenomenal 2025, when he’s run a 30:16 10k, a near PB 65:21 in the HM, and a top 10 finish in the Southern XC, he came first in the mass (ie non-elite) start, was 24th overall including elites, and was 2nd VM40, only behind somebody called Kipchoge. It was only 37s short of his PB set 11 years ago in Berlin, and his best time and result in London – he’s twice come 2nd in the mass event.
John Gilbert in full flow
The first Kent woman home was Jennifer Walrod, in 2:58:48, but special mention goes to Victoria Buck, who ran 3:03:15 and was 6th VW50.
There were a few PBs – Matteo Gala in 2:35, Robbie Smith, by 16 minutes, in 2:41, Simon Vaisey in 2:42, Kendal Noctor in 2:43, Gavin Orr in 2:45, Fran Buss in 3:06 and Beth Shakespeare in 3:29.
As ever there were injuries and accidents – Daisy Noble was heading for a good time of around 3:20 when she tripped on a water bottle and banged her head! After an hour or so getting medical attention she got back to the race and completed it!
And a special mention to friend of the club and erstwhile second claimer Jonathan Ratcliffe – he ran Boston marathon last Monday, then London today in 3:02:02 – not bad for a 57 year old!
Full results below:
Alex Yee
02:11:08
Fergus Johnson
02:49:21
Benjamin Mitchell
03:14:16
John Gilbert
02:16:26
Luke Rowland
02:49:22
Robert King
03:14:21
Ross Braden
02:21:05
Samuel Dames
02:52:52
Adrian Lobb
03:15:06
Ben Clarke
02:23:56
Andrew Colley
02:54:16
Nesrin Sabanci
03:15:12
Jonathan Collier
02:28:34
Joshua Lennard-Jones
02:55:59
Christiana Kalotihos
03:16:25
Joe Hartley
02:29:48
Jake Herrera
02:56:13
Kersha Dwyer
03:25:24
Harry Tivnen
02:31:11
Neil Phillips
02:56:52
Tim Sharp
03:26:28
Cedric Hauben
02:31:52
Jennifer Walrod
02:58:48
Nicola Cartlidge
03:27:19
Kurt Wilkinson
02:34:19
Frederick Ungoed-Courtney
02:59:07
Beth Shakespeare
03:29:00
Matteo Gala
02:35:03
John Mayock
03:01:58
Stephen Watts
03:29:59
Jonathan Tipper
02:38:56
Victoria Buck
03:03:15
Sally Urquhart
03:30:25
Adam Paterson
02:41:04
Mark Crabtree
03:05:42
Rob Harvey
03:32:51
Robbie Smith
02:41:44
Fran Buss
03:06:05
Kate Fawcett
03:43:54
Simon Vaisey
02:42:48
Katie Good
03:08:55
Nathan Stephenson
03:56:13
Kendal Noctor
02:43:00
Alex Morales
03:09:39
Sarah Young
04:15:08
Calum Macdonald
02:43:51
Alison Thomson
03:10:23
Ronnie Haydon
04:20:51
Gavin Orr
02:45:07
Lyndon Marfell
03:10:25
Heather Castle
04:38:33
William Goldberg
02:45:16
Huw Evans
03:11:52
Daisy Noble
04:50:54
Alistair McMaster
02:47:18
Stuart Beaney
03:12:08
Martin Morgan
05:07:23
Philip Woodford Smith
02:48:15
Nick Edney
03:12:52
Miki Jablkowska
05:47:40
Tom Heslop
02:48:28
John Gilchrist
03:14:05
Congratulations to everybody who ran!
MINI MARATHON REPORT
There was a superb Kent AC Turnout yesterday for the London Mini Marathon, which was of the usual incredibly high standard. Well done to all our competitors! This 2.62 km race came with the highs and lows we’ve come to expect: punishingly early start, free merch (who doesn’t love a Lewisham hoody), and an incredible atmosphere. And plenty of injuries at the starting line, some nastier than others. Competition can indeed be fierce! That didn’t stop any of our winners completing the course.
Extra credit to Martha Parry, who ran in the U17 category despite being only 13, due to an administrative error, and to George, Tom and Dylan, who got great results despite falls.
Boys under 17 17th London/52nd overall Olly Buck 07:52
54th/116th Dylan Sandhu 08:25
72nd/136th Louis Holley 08:39
Girls under 17 84th/149th Lauren Jefferson 11:17
85th/150th Martha Parry 11:19
101st/166th Abigail Wrake 12:32
Boys under 15
41st/103rd Luke Roderick 08:40
45th/108th George Searle 08:44
86th/151st Matteo Watson 09:15
89th/154th Lucas Stickland 09:18
Girls under 15
34th/93rd Tallulah Jones 09:55
47th/109th Alice Hales 10:10
112th/177th Alexandra Walker 11:17
Boys under 13
33rd/85th Tom Brain 09:16
77th/135th Joel Spencer 09:47
90th/149th Edward Pearce 09:57
Tremendously well done to all our juniors who took part!
EVENT CALENDAR
(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)
May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
10 – Ladywell 10000
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet
June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green
July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open
August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon
September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £6.50 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction.
The Alex Yee Arena has opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022.
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 27/04/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 27 April 2025
Last week at Crystal Palace parkrun your editor bumped into an old member, who had been President, Secretary and newsletter editor at a time when there were almost more roles than members. He said that one year in the 80s Kent had two entrants into the London Marathon, of which he was one – and he was the only one who finished!
Today we had 67 starters and 62 finishers, one of the largest club representations in the race, which shows how far we’ve come as a club. And despite the unwelcome heat, which made the job harder than expected, we had some fine results, including first place in the mass event for John Gilbert, and even a few PBs. Full report below.
Ross Braden and John Gilbert
The London Marathon wasn’t the only event this weekend. We also had the Mini Marathon – much talked about as the foundation for many future champions, including Alex Yee – in which we had several Kent AC juniors – full report below.
We also had our first KYAL event of the year, in Ashford, shorn of some talent taking mart in the mini marathon, but nevertheless our juniors did well. Full results aren’t yet available, there will be a report next week.
There was also a marathon in Manchester, and some Kent runners who couldn’t get a London place ran there instead. Well done to Richard Giles (2:44:30 4th M45), Arejeet Nag (2:50:58 PB), Luis Molina (2:51:56 PB), Caoimhe nic Fhogartaigh (2:57:49 2nd W45), Joseph Wilkes (3:04:32) and coach Ted Aston (5:11:29)
Richard and Caoimhe
Arejeet, Luis and Joe
There were a couple of non-marathon results this week – Jake Simmonds (14:55) and George Copping (16:03) in the Friday Night Under the Lights 5k race in Battersea. And Pierre Flasse ran the Magna Carta half in 1:40:20.
Don’t forget the Assembly League in Victoria Park this Thursday, mails will be sent out about the race. No need to sign up in advance, turn up, grab a number and put name and number on the spreadsheet (link will be provided by mail and whatsapp), run then drink!
LONDON’S BURNING!
On one of the warmest days of the year so far, which put paid to PB ambitions for most, one Kent runner inevitably got most of the media attention – Alex Yee, running his first marathon, indeed his first race longer than 10k – and he performed highly creditably, coming 14th, the 2nd Brit home behind fellow Olympian Mahamed Mahamed, in 2:11:08.
How hard was that?
Apart from Alex, unarguably the Kent performance of the day was by John Gilbert. Continuing his phenomenal 2025, when he’s run a 30:16 10k, a near PB 65:21 in the HM, and a top 10 finish in the Southern XC, he came first in the mass (ie non-elite) start, was 24th overall including elites, and was 2nd VM40, only behind somebody called Kipchoge. It was only 37s short of his PB set 11 years ago in Berlin, and his best time and result in London – he’s twice come 2nd in the mass event.
John Gilbert in full flow
The first Kent woman home was Jennifer Walrod, in 2:58:48, but special mention goes to Victoria Buck, who ran 3:03:15 and was 6th VW50.
There were a few PBs – Matteo Gala in 2:35, Robbie Smith, by 16 minutes, in 2:41, Simon Vaisey in 2:42, Kendal Noctor in 2:43, Gavin Orr in 2:45, Fran Buss in 3:06 and Beth Shakespeare in 3:29.
As ever there were injuries and accidents – Daisy Noble was heading for a good time of around 3:20 when she tripped on a water bottle and banged her head! After an hour or so getting medical attention she got back to the race and completed it!
And a special mention to friend of the club and erstwhile second claimer Jonathan Ratcliffe – he ran Boston marathon last Monday, then London today in 3:02:02 – not bad for a 57 year old!
Full results below:
Alex Yee
02:11:08
Fergus Johnson
02:49:21
Benjamin Mitchell
03:14:16
John Gilbert
02:16:26
Luke Rowland
02:49:22
Robert King
03:14:21
Ross Braden
02:21:05
Samuel Dames
02:52:52
Adrian Lobb
03:15:06
Ben Clarke
02:23:56
Andrew Colley
02:54:16
Nesrin Sabanci
03:15:12
Jonathan Collier
02:28:34
Joshua Lennard-Jones
02:55:59
Christiana Kalotihos
03:16:25
Joe Hartley
02:29:48
Jake Herrera
02:56:13
Kersha Dwyer
03:25:24
Harry Tivnen
02:31:11
Neil Phillips
02:56:52
Tim Sharp
03:26:28
Cedric Hauben
02:31:52
Jennifer Walrod
02:58:48
Nicola Cartlidge
03:27:19
Kurt Wilkinson
02:34:19
Frederick Ungoed-Courtney
02:59:07
Beth Shakespeare
03:29:00
Matteo Gala
02:35:03
John Mayock
03:01:58
Stephen Watts
03:29:59
Jonathan Tipper
02:38:56
Victoria Buck
03:03:15
Sally Urquhart
03:30:25
Adam Paterson
02:41:04
Mark Crabtree
03:05:42
Rob Harvey
03:32:51
Robbie Smith
02:41:44
Fran Buss
03:06:05
Kate Fawcett
03:43:54
Simon Vaisey
02:42:48
Katie Good
03:08:55
Nathan Stephenson
03:56:13
Kendal Noctor
02:43:00
Alex Morales
03:09:39
Sarah Young
04:15:08
Calum Macdonald
02:43:51
Alison Thomson
03:10:23
Ronnie Haydon
04:20:51
Gavin Orr
02:45:07
Lyndon Marfell
03:10:25
Heather Castle
04:38:33
William Goldberg
02:45:16
Huw Evans
03:11:52
Daisy Noble
04:50:54
Alistair McMaster
02:47:18
Stuart Beaney
03:12:08
Martin Morgan
05:07:23
Philip Woodford Smith
02:48:15
Nick Edney
03:12:52
Miki Jablkowska
05:47:40
Tom Heslop
02:48:28
John Gilchrist
03:14:05
Congratulations to everybody who ran!
MINI MARATHON REPORT
There was a superb Kent AC Turnout yesterday for the London Mini Marathon, which was of the usual incredibly high standard. Well done to all our competitors! This 2.62 km race came with the highs and lows we’ve come to expect: punishingly early start, free merch (who doesn’t love a Lewisham hoody), and an incredible atmosphere. And plenty of injuries at the starting line, some nastier than others. Competition can indeed be fierce! That didn’t stop any of our winners completing the course.
Extra credit to Martha Parry, who ran in the U17 category despite being only 13, due to an administrative error, and to George, Tom and Dylan, who got great results despite falls.
Boys under 17 17th London/52nd overall Olly Buck 07:52
54th/116th Dylan Sandhu 08:25
72nd/136th Louis Holley 08:39
Girls under 17 84th/149th Lauren Jefferson 11:17
85th/150th Martha Parry 11:19
101st/166th Abigail Wrake 12:32
Lauren, Abigail, Martha
Boys under 15
41st/103rd Luke Roderick 08:40
45th/108th George Searle 08:44
86th/151st Matteo Watson 09:15
89th/154th Lucas Stickland 09:18
Dylan, George, Tom
Girls under 15
34th/93rd Tallulah Jones 09:55
47th/109th Alice Hales 10:10
112th/177th Alexandra Walker 11:17
Boys under 13
33rd/85th Tom Brain 09:16
77th/135th Joel Spencer 09:47
90th/149th Edward Pearce 09:57
Tremendously well done to all our juniors who took part!
EVENT CALENDAR
(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)
May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
10 – Ladywell 10000
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet
June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green
July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open
August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon
September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £6.50 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction.
The Alex Yee Arena has opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022.
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 21/04/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 21 April 2025
Whilst many of us focused on chocolate egg indulgence this weekend, Kent AC runners laced up in Boston, Folkestone and closer to home in Battersea Park.
But first, throwing it back to last weekend, Olly Buck raced in the National Young Athletes 5k Championships, scoring 6th place overall in 15:57. Nice work!
At the Folkestone 10 on Friday, Rory Knight, Rob Laing and Barny Day finished consecutively in 56:06, 56:17 and 57:12.
Dream team
Meanwhile in Maidenhead, Tom Webb also broke 60 for 10 miles, coming home in 59:24.
Chris Mullin received a lovely selection of easter eggs, after finishing in second place at the Westonbirt House Easter Half in 78:00.
In Victoria Park, Andrea Barber crossed the line in 1:37:54 for the half marathon.
On Saturday, Joe Hartley ran the Top Flight 5k at Battersea Park, finishing in 15:32.
Stuart Beaney opted for the 10k, scoring 38:53.
Today, three Kent athletes lined up for the second Marathon Major of the year in Boston.
Dan Pettitt was first home in 2:47:58, followed by Jonathan Ratcliffe and James Royston in 2:52:38 and 3:09:49 respectively.
We’re looking for officials to assist at the KYAL and SAL this season.
If you are interested, please contact Jaqueline Francis.
Now onto Manchester and London marathon this weekend!
We will certainly be celebrating all of you running in London and raising glasses for those in Manchester at The Chandos in Charing Cross post-race. Pop along for one or stay for a few.
LAST CHANCE TO ENTER THE LADYWELL 10000
The Ladywell 10000 returns on Saturday 10th May.
Your last chance to enter is this week, with the deadline being Saturday 26th April.
We’re still looking for volunteers to help on the day, to ensure the event runs as smoothly as possible.
If you are available, even for for some of the day, please lend us a hand!
Back for another year, the Beckenham and Dulwich relay dates are confirmed. Kicking off on 21st May at Beckenham Place Park, followed by 18th June in Dulwich Park.
A fantastic opportunity to race and socialise across all groups!
Please only register if you’re sure you can attend either event.
Sign up here.
EVENT CALENDAR
(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)
April
26 – KYAL – Ashford
27 – London Marathon
May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
10 – Ladywell 10000
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet
June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green
July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open
August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon
September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £6.50 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction.
The Alex Yee Arena has opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022.
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 13/04/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 13 April 2025
We’re well into marathon season now, with a handful of Kent runners completing the distance today, but the highlight of the weekend was the main event of the club running year – the National 12 & 6 stage relays, held yesterday in Birmingham. Kent teams performed admirably – full report below.
Over in Lincoln, Matthew Thomas was on for a sub 3 hour marathon on the flattest course in the country, but a strong headwind on the second half made it a struggle and he came home in 3:05:17 for a 50 minute PB. Jamie Harvie also battled round in 3:13:17, not long after completing an ultra!
Sam Wilcock ran Norfolk half in 97:29, finishing by Cromer pier:
while Karina Box ran Newport marathon in 3:38:44
Most impressively, Phoebe Adorno completed the Chiltern Trail Marathon.
Back home, the first monthly social run was held last Wednesday, and Richard Giles reports that a dozen or so runners had a leisurely scenic saunter around the neighbourhood. Next one is on 14th May, and every second Wednesday over summer.
Don’t forget to sign up for the Beckenham and Dulwich relays, and there’s still an opportunity to run a 10000 on Ladwell track on 10 May. Sign up to run here or if you’re available to volunteer and help out, sign up here.
And track socials are back! First Tuesday of the month from June, after the track session, drinks and nibbles and chat.
NATIONAL 12 & 6 STAGE RELAYS
Kent sent 4 teams (plus a junior) up to Sutton Park in Birmingham for the National Road Relays, the highlight of the running year. The course, which normally has long legs of 8.5k and short legs of 5k for the men’s race this year comprised only short legs, so it was fast and furious.
Our men had qualified 2 teams, despite the B team coming 26th in the Southerns with 25 to qualify, and expectations were that the A team could finish in the top 10, that they’d just missed in 2024.
Chris Busaileh, men’s team captain, writes: the A team’s 7th place put us right back amongst the very best clubs in the UK. After only just scraping through, our B team showcased the club’s depth, finishing 27th and 3rd B team. 63 teams closed out 12 athletes.
There were a number of exceptional individual performances which stood out on the day.
Rob Sesemann continued his excellent run of form to get the A team off to a spectacular start, equalling Ross Braden’s club short leg record (at least on the course that’s been in place since 2017) with a scorching 15.10. That record was clearly on borrowed time as John Gilbert ran a superb 15.05 on leg 2, showing that he’s back to his very best. Special mention also to Felix Delgado who travelled all the way from Bordeaux to experience the race, and add some star quality to the team.
For the B team, leg of the day has to go to Joe Hartley. The results may have him down as 15.50 but he’s clearly been done over by the time keepers as his actual time was 15.45 – quick enough to scalp a number of the A team legs. Shout outs also to Joe Vis (16.31) who bounced back after recent illness and Lyndon Marfell (16.38), another who showed his marathon prep is nicely on course.
Alexa Parker, women;s captain, writes: in a historic turn of events, two complete Kent AC women’s teams travelled to the National 6 Stage relays in Sutton Coldfield for the first time ever! There were some trials and tribulations involved in getting us all there together, with last minute injuries striking once again, but our saviours came in the form of one Vic Cartwright and one Jo Mott who valiantly stepped up with little notice, showing true team commitment!
It was tough competition this year indeed, with Claire Oxlade and Vic Buck facing off against Aldershot’s Philly Bowden to set the A and B teams off to a strong start. Both came home in the 30s out of more than 50 teams on a wickedly quick first leg, which always features some of the fastest women in the field. Stalwart Clare Elms and relative newcomer Flo Ingram took 3 and 6 places respectively in the second leg, with Flo running in her debut relay for Kent AC, and we hope not her last! Alix Fawcett and Vic Cartwright took another 5 and 3 places each, followed by Lin Skinner and Gen Blanch taking a further 5 and 1 places to position the two teams at 20th and 29th respectively.
At this point the field became somewhat spread out and despite strong runs from Molly O’Connor (also in her debut race for Kent!) and Alexa Parker, the A team finished in a very respectable 20th place overall. Sarah Crichton (achieving a post-baby PB!) and Jo Mott finished out the B team just 10 places behind. All in all a solid day’s work which was rewarded by beers and Prosecco on the train home in our time-honoured tradition. A huge thank you to everyone who turned out, including our long-suffering and dedicated coach Pete Boxshall – it was a glorious day and showed the great strength and depth of our ever growing women’s team. See you all in September!
FANCY A RELAY?
Back for another year, the Beckenham and Dulwich relay dates are confirmed. Kicking off on 21st May at Beckenham Place Park, followed by 18th June in Dulwich Park.
A fantastic opportunity to race and socialise across all groups!
Please only register if you’re sure you can attend either event.
Sign up here.
EVENT CALENDAR
(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)
April
26 – KYAL – Ashford
27 – London Marathon
May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
10 – Ladywell 10000/100
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet
June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green
July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open
August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon
September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £6.50 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction.
The Alex Yee Arena has opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022.
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 06/04/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 6 April 2025
The first Thursday in April always takes on a festive air, especially when the sun has been out and the evening sky runs through a series of fine pastels as athletes run through their 5k strategy for the Assembly League season. It all went like a charm last Thursday. Kent AC runners came out to Beckenham Park in force to run in the sunset and have a few beers afterwards. What could be better? And the icing on the cake is that our teams did incredibly well. The women’s A and B teams both finished in first place, with Amelia Pettitt leading them in in 19.29, with Clare Oxlade hot on her heels. The men’s A and B teams were first and second respectively, and they were led in by Matt Speed in 16.27.
Fantastic work team, and thanks, Narciso, for this picture: Here come the rest of the results: we start with Prague half, which Ivona Gongolova ran in 1:40.01. That was on Saturday 5 April.
All the blue skies, everywhere, for the rest of the results gallery, which comes to you from all over Europe. Here’s Liam Cairns in Milan, celebrating his 3:05:21: Over to Bratislava, Slovakia, where they lack the blue skies but do appear to have their own version of the Gherkin, and Adrian, who ran 4:00:29: Resuming the blue-skies theme, in Brighton now and See Philpott was pleased to PB in 4:45:44 (his second marathon) Back in London, looking absolutely gorgeous as it showed off all its picture postcard charm to half marathon runners, including Charlotte Perfect, whose 86:01 earned her the 19th female place:
In 10K news, Joseph Lee went to Lincoln and ran a splendid 32:59 and Beki Hilton Hans ran hers in Brighton, but didn’t tell us her time, it was undoubtedly fast,
Back to the marathons. There were others at Brighton, namely Robbie Spargo (3:04:28), Paul Mccrone, hitting walls but gritting his teeth and clocking 3:42:11; James Hilton ran 3:43:04; Vince Wakfer ran 4:20:15; Sharon Stanley achieved 4:26:59; Lesley Mentink 4:31:26
Further west, Southampton hosted one (distracting itself from the football team’s relegation) and it was probably sunny there, you’d have to ask James Ewing who ran 2:41:21 and was sixth overall.
Teresa Murphy went to Milan and ran 3:08:18.
Going from the sublime distance to the ridiculous one, Alex Hamlet won the Springtide 50K in Sussex in 3:47:2.
Also this weekend, the Juniors were giving it all on the track at Lee Valley open, more on that below.
Another reminder that we’re introducing social runs, every second Wednesday, meet at 7pm at the track, casual pace, about 7k, then drinks afterwards.
Don’t forget to sign up for the Ladywell 10000 on 10 May. There will be multiple seeded races for all paces, food and music. We also need volunteers to help with registration, pacing, officials and on the bar, so please sign up if you can help out.
YOUNG, GIFTED, ON TRACK
In the Southwark Open, on Saturday 29 March, our young athletes opened the outdoor season with some cracking results in the 600m. Cheryl Adjadi, Tiffany Ngando, Zac Murray, Jeremy Sharp (he PBed in 1:57); Otis Atlee (1:51PB) and Flynn Lohan (PB 2:01) gave it their all.
The juniors had a great day at the Milton Keynes for the SEAA 5K Road Championships last weekend (30 March)
Five runners, all under 15, achieved some terrific times:
Boys team:
George Searle: 17:33, placed 20th
Luke Roderick: 17:35 placed 22nd
Lucas Stickland: 18:29, placed 31st
Girls team:
Tallulah Jones: 20:09, placed 4th
Alice Hales: 21:16, placed 8th
Yesterday (5 April) was the Lee Valley Open, under blue skies with quite a strong breeze, either irritating or most welcome, depending on which direction you were running in. Luckily, it was the wind beneath the wings of:
U20, Alicia 800m:2:44:17
U17G Tess 300hurdles 47:93 (PB) and 80hurdles 11:83 PB
U15G Clausdia 75hurdles 13:13 PB and 300hurdles 51:02 PB
U15Boys Mack 80h 13:69 PB
U13Girls Evie 70hurdles 12:65PB
U17B & U20 Tyler 100m 11:79PB and 300m 24:33PB
Derek 100m 11:69 and 200m 23:72 PB
Jeffery 100m 12:02
Robin 100m 11:93 PB and Andres 100m 11:92PB
Congratulations to everyone!
Tess Hepple and Claudia Rigby
WELFARE OFFICER REQUIRED
Kent AC now has over 700 members. The Welfare team is looking for another Officer to support the ever expanding club.
England Athletics recommend that clubs should have both male and female welfare officers, we are looking for an additional welfare officer to work alongside the existing team, led by Sarah Young. The welfare officer role involves taking a lead for safeguarding children and adults at risk (though this is everybody’s responsibility), helping to develop policy and occasionally dealing with concerns. We also have an interest in promoting athletes’ well being more broadly, such as encouraging an understanding of mental health issues.
The role would suit somebody with a children’s services background in education, health or social care though this is not essential. It is a great opportunity to make a difference and also looks good on your CV. Training in the role is offered by England Athletics. If you might interested or would like to find out more please let us know at .
FANCY A RELAY?
Back for another year, the Beckenham and Dulwich relay dates are confirmed. Kicking off on 21st May at Beckenham Place Park, followed by 18th June in Dulwich Park.
A fantastic opportunity to race and socialise across all groups!
Please only register if you’re sure you can attend either event.
Sign up here.
RUN AND TAKE THE MONEY
It was rollover week in the prize draw. The bonus ball this was 18 and the lucky winner was Mark Hall, who is £500 richer today.
There are still numbers available for this club fundraiser, it costs £6/month.
if you would like more information, email David at
EVENT CALENDAR
(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)
April
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
26 – KYAL – Ashford
27 – London Marathon
May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
10 – Ladywell 10000/100
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet
June
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green
July
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open
August
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon
September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £6.50 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction.
The Alex Yee Arena has opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022.
