We suspect many of you are deep into your holidays, either trying different challenges (how about running up Mt Ventoux? Or cycling Lejog?) or finding ways to entertain the kids. Meanwhile, many of those still in London went up to Victoria Park on Thursday for the 5th Assembly League race of the season, while others competed for PBs on track and road. Report on the Assembly League below.
Last Wednesday in Battersea a few KAC athletes ran well in the top flight 5k races – Jonathan Collier (15:05), Joe Hartley (15:45), Ian Ellwood (17:24) and James Dowell (17:58)
And on Saturday on the track at Wimbledon we had several good 5000m runs – Kurt WIlkinson (14:32 PB), Joe Hartley (again!) (15:17 PB), Mikhail Krimovazov (15:52), Rob Elphick (15:56), Bert Royle (16:17), Dan Pettitt (16:22), Nick Ostrowski (16:51), Jeremias Kempke (16:56) and Amelia Pettitt (17:48)
Over in Bristol on Sunday there was an inter-area Masters T&F tournament, and several of our stalwarts competed and won medals – Lin Skinner won the VW50 1500m (5:12) and came 2nd in the VW50 3000m (11:21), Joe Appiah competed in 4 events, getting a gold in the 100mh (in which he holds the VM50 WR) in 14.36, a silver in the LJ (5.66m), a bronze in the 100m (12.34) and 4th in the relay. Phew! And Emily Murray won the VW35 TJ in 9.88m, and also competed in the 100m relay.
This Saturday we have the final SAL event of the season. It’s at Dartford, which is considerably easier to get to than Watford or Cambridge. As ever, we’re keen to get a strong team out, and to cover all the track and field events, so if you’d like to come and compete, or alternatively help out with officiating, please contact Sofia Contino or Jo Cartledge.
Also, entries are now open for the last KAC hosted open meet.on Thursday 10 September. If you wish to compete in the 200m, 400m or 5000m, plus the long jump, or 150m and 800m (juniors only) then you can register here. Additionally, we will need help in organising the event, so if you;re available, or competing and have some extra time, please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell.
ASSEMBLY LEAGUE #5
The Victoria Park races are always slightly tougher as they’re the ones that Highgate turn up for, and so it proved. While they didn’t have all their best runners out, neither did we, and we ended up with mixed results compared to our usual clean sweep.
The men’s A team, led by James Ewing in 6th in 17:36 over the 3.5 mile course, came 3rd behind Victoria Park Harriers and Highgate, the team completed by Calum Fraser (10th), Dave Morgan (11th) and Mark Hall (12th) The B team (Sean Fitzpatrick, Matt Speed, Che Compton and Rory Knight) won their category ahead of Highgate, showing our strength in depth.
The women’s team, helped by the return of Amy Clements (2nd female finisher) and Catherine Kandie (3rd) won their A category easily, with Katie Good and Vic Buck completing the team, and the B team (Suz Spalding, Jo Wint, Sally Urquhart and Sarah Parry) came 2nd in their category. There were age category wins for Dave Morgan (VM40), Len Reilly (VM60), Catherine Kandie (VW35, Amy Clements (VW40), Vic Buck (VW50) and Miki Jablkowska (VW70)
There was good cheap food and drink, plus catchups afterwards, and we now look forward to the final race of the season (with prizegiving), at Beckenham Place Park on Thursday Sep 3rd. Do come and join the club if you’re available!
EVENT CALENDAR
August 8 – SAL – Dartford
12 – Social run 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
September 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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 INFORMED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us appraised 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.
A trio of Kent AC runners, taking on very different challenges, did the club proud this week. Having mulled over which individual runner should receive top billing in this esteemed organ, we’ve gone with James Boustead, who yesterday completed the Bob Graham Round. This 66-mile circuit requires runners to negotiate 42 peaks in the Lake District over a 66-mile circuit, with 27,000 miles of elevation. Oh, and there’s a 24-hour time limit.
In challenging conditions: low cloud and the first rain for several weeks, Kent AC trail stars James and Ben Clarke started really strongly at 9pm Friday night, descending to Wasdale by 11.30am on the Saturday. Navigation was a challenge; Ben was forced to pull out after an impressive haul of peaks but James ploughed on and unbelievably made it to Moot Hall to claim his beer in 20 hours and 53 minutes. A seriously hardcore performance, ably crewed by a strong Kent AC support team.
After paying due homage to peak-king Boustead we head trackward, to Harry Forman Wilshaw and his extraordinary performance at SAL in Cambridge. He came in first in the 800m – a new club record – and the 1500m, then ran a 4:01 in the mile. An absolutely extraordinary performance from Harry, who at 21 goes from strength to strength, week to week.
Our third star is, of course, Clare Elms. She’s always humble about her incredible achievements, so we know this wonder woman would not want to to dominate the newsletter once again, but just let this sink in: at the Wimbledon Mile Extravaganza on Thursday, Clare beat her own W60 World record in the mile and the 1500 finishing in 5:17.25. She is truly unstoppable.
Other results from Wimbledon:
Kurt Wilkinson 4:14.99 (PB)
Bert Royle U18) 4:46.52
Isaac Parker 4:21.15
Louis Holley 4:43.87
Dee O’Brien 5:58.71
Another fabulous result this weekend comes from the super young talent Derek Olewunne in the U18 200m at the England Championships in Bedford. He ran a big PB: 22.19. Congratulations to Derek!
Lastly, this weekend saw a Kent AC parkrun takeover at bosky Beckenham Place Park, where, incidentally, the last Assembly League of the season will take place in September:
The Event Calendar down below has been updated with 26/27 cross country fixtures as we currently have them – there’s a few TBCs in the listing, but make a note of the dates and we’ll update you as we get into autumn.
The ever-popular Kent AC post-track social will take place this Tuesday, 28 July, and with more hot sunshine forecast, it will be all the more delightful.
Finally, we’re introducing a new regular feature – in the cause of transparency, we have a brief summary of decisions taken at the most recent Committee meeting.
JUNIORS REPORT
Thanks to Graeme Hall for the following report:
Around this time of year, kids across the country line up to compete in their school sports days. It’s a moment when our Kent AC young athletes can show their school friends and teachers exactly what they can do. And they did that in style this year.
Here are some results. Huge congratulations to everyone for some incredible performances.
Jeremy Sharp, Year 7, Prendergast Ladywell School
1st in Long Jump
1st in 4×100 relay
Cecily Moscrop, Year 7, Prendergast Ladywell School
1st in 300m
1st in 4x100m relay
Phoebe Hall, Year 7, Harris Girls Academy East Dulwich
Harris Federation Sports Day – 31 schools competing against each other
4th in Girls 100m, but set fastest time of all students in the heats with 13.62 seconds (PB)
1st in Girls 4x100m relay: 55.59 seconds
Vwede Fydoro-Okiti, Year 7, St Thomas the Apostle
1st in 100m: 12.45 seconds
Evie Atanda, Year 7, Kingsdale Foundation School
1st in 100m
1st in Javelin: 16.7m (PB)
Lealaurel Goode, Year 7, Kingsdale Foundation School
3rd in 100m
Otis Atlee, Year 8, Kingsdale Foundation School
1st in 200m: 25.50 seconds (PB)
1st in Long Jump: 4.60m
Georgia Fox, Year 8,Prendergast Ladywell School
1st in 800m: 2m 54s
Zac Murray, Year 8, Dulwich Prep & Senior
1st in Long Jump: 4.69m
1st in Triple Jump: 9.97m
1st in 300m
2nd in 200m
3rd in 100m
3rd in High Jump
Lily O’Gorman, Year 9, Harris Girls Academy Bromley
Harris Federation Sports Day – 31 schools competing against each other
1st in Girls 800m: 2m 41s
Amalya Hunte, Year 9
1st in Standing Long Jump
1st in Mixed 4x100m relay
1st in Girls 4x100m relay
1st in Girls 100m
and she competed in her first ever 800m.
Academy Trust Sports Day at Central Park, Dartford – 8 schools competing
1st in Triple Jump: 8.59m
2nd in Long Jump: 4.40m
2nd in girls 100m
Vwegba Fydoro-Okiti, Year 10, St Thomas the Apostle
1st in 100m: 11 seconds (although his dad caveats that it was hand-timed!)
And finally, we had some great results for our athletes still in primary school:
Lilly Simpson completed her first ever triathlon (50m swim, 3km bike ride, 1.5km run) in an impressive 24 minutes and 22 seconds.
Clara Delogu took part in the Olimpiadi della Gioventù Italiana (OGI), a youth athletics competition for the Italian community in the UK
1st in U12 400 metres
1st in U12 relay
2nd in U12 800 metres
Well done to all our athletes!
LAST CHANCE TO ASSEMBLE AT VICKY P
Thursday 30 July sees the penultimate Assembly League and the second of the season at Victoria Park, Hackney. Race HQ is at the Victoria Park Harriers Clubhouse (St Augustine’s Hall, Cadogan Terrace, E9 5EG). It’s a fast, flat 3.5mile figures of eight loop around this fine old Victorian Park. The bar is usually open for post race drinks and sandwiches. All you need to do is turn up, grab your number and sign up on the spreadsheet on the day, there’s no fee.
NEW TERM: OPEN MEET
Late Summer Open Meet
Thursday 10th September
Events: – 150m (U12 only)
200m (U14+) – 400m (U16+)
800m Juniors (U14 & U16) – 5000m (Masters, 35+) –
Masters Shoe Rules Apply (Not applicable for prizes). Strictly 35+.
5000m (Open, U18+) – UKA Shoe Rules Apply.
Athletes must wear spikes or flats in accordance with World Athletics rules; failure to comply may result in disqualification. Enter here
These events are only possible with support from volunteers – any help is appreciated.
COMMITTEE MEETING
A brief summary of topics discussed and decided upon in the last committee meeting (6 July)
1) The Committee agreed to buy a new more lightweight branded gazebo for use at events. Budget up to £700.
2) It was noted that there have been some javelin coaching sessions without a proper marked off area. The Committee noted that poles and tape have been purchased for marking off throws areas, and that there should be a firm commitment to throws safety at KAC.
3) Lewisham Council & GLL plan to relay the track in 2027, which will require a closing of the arena for several weeks. We do not as yet have the dates or duration of the relay, but will monitor the situation and may investigate other facilities for track training if necessary.
4) The AGM date was set for 17 November.
5) The next Committee meeting will be on 7 September.
EVENT CALENDAR
July
28 – Post track social
30 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
August 8 – SAL – Dartford
12 – Social run 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
25 – Post track social
September 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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 INFORMED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us appraised 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.
We have a bumper newsletter for you today, with more detailed results from the Assembly League, full results from the Ron Hale Open, plus a number of other races.
Highlights of the week were two runs by Harry Forman Wilshaw in the 800m. Last week at the England Athletic Championships in Bedford he came 4th in the final, running 1:56.59. Then on Saturday at Watford he ran 1:48.51 to win his heat and set a new club record, beating a time set by Jermaine Mays, also at Watford, in 2012! Harry continues to show great improvement, and aged only 21, there’s still more to come!
On Thursday night at the Tracksmith 5000m Open event in Stratford, a number of Kent athletes ran well – of those, the highlights were Kurt WIlkinson running a PB of 14:35, Dave Morgan in 16:00, and Che Compton ran 16:21, winning his race and his age category (VM50)
On Wednesday we participated in the first ever Dino Dash – a fun relay held in Crystal Palace Park, which was sadly not competed for in dinosaur outfits. Jake Simmonds reports below.
On Friday, Alex Yee ran the 5000m in the Diamond League in Monaco. While the conditions were tough and the pace exceeded his current level, he regarded it as another experience worth trying as he builds towards defending his Olympic title in 2028.
The Event Calendar down below has been updated with 26/27 cross country fixtures as we currently have them – there’s a few TBCs in the listing, but make a note of the dates and we’ll update you as we get into autumn.
Please note that the social run planmned for this Wednesday has been cancelled due to a clash with the England match meaning the designated bar is fully booked.
Next Sunday we have the 3rd SAL fixture of the season, in Cambridge. A signup sheet is being circulated on Whatsapp for those who wish to join the team here, plus travel instructions – all are welcome.
Finally, we’re introducing a new regular feature – in the cause of transparency, we have a brief summary of decisions taken at the most recent Committee meeting.
RON HALE OPEN
Last Sunday under blazing sun at the Alex Yee Arena, KAC held its second open event of the year. There were events for all ages and several distances, plus two in the field, many PBs were gained, and one age category world record.
As is usual with the Assembly League, it takes a few days for the full results to be compiled and corrected, so as an update we have them here, with some action pics.
We had over 40 runners out, and managed to win both A and B categories for men and women. Calum Fraser, Joe Vis and Matt Speed were clustered together in 5th, 6th and 7th as our lead runners home, with Amelia Pettitt winning the women’s category, Alexa Parker and Aisling Ahern backing her up.
We also had age category wins for Dave Morgan (VM40), Che Compton (VM50), Lin Skinner (VW50), Jules Gevers (VM55), Roger Beardsworth (VM65) and Miki Jablkowska (VW70)
Well done to everybody who competed, and we look forward to seeing you at the next race, in Victoria Park on Thursday 30 July.
DINO DASH
Wednesday 8th July saw Kent AC compete in the first ever Dino Dashers Relays in the club’s history. Teams of three started and finished at the famous Crystal Palace Athletics Track, with each runner completing a 3.5km leg.
Kent AC’s Leg 1 trio consisted of Joe Vis, Sam Wilcock and Sally Urquhart. Joe came home in 2nd place, opening up a gap to 3rd. Sam and Sally also ran excellent first legs in the heat.
Leg 2 saw Jake Simmonds set off in 2nd place with a comfortable gap to 3rd. Jake held onto 2nd, handing over to John Gilchrist. Club President Jules Gevers ran a brilliant second leg for the Men’s B team, giving Adrian Lobb something to chase. Suze Spalding showed true Kent AC spirit, powering through the demanding 3.5km hilly course in the heat.
John Gilchrist battled hard on Leg 3 to hold onto a medal position, bringing the Men’s A team home to a fantastic bronze medal in their first Dino Dash outing. Adrian Lobb also ran a brilliant final leg, helping the Men’s B team finish 6th overall.
With only around six minutes to complete a quick bib change and get back to the start line, team captain and club legend Jake Simmonds stepped in to run Leg 3 for the Mixed team. Taking over from Suze, Jake battled hard, passing as many runners as possible to bring the team closer to the podium.
Our very own Claire Oxlade also raced on Wednesday at the Dino Dash, running Leg 1 for the Oxlade Family team.
Team Results
Men’s A Team – 3rd Place 🥉
Men’s B Team – 6th Place (4th All-Male Team)
Mixed A Team – 18th Place (7th in the Mixed Team category)
COMMITTEE MEETING
A brief summary of topics discussed and decided upon in the last committee meeting (6 July)
1) The Committee agreed to buy a new more lightweight branded gazebo for use at events. Budget up to £700.
2) It was noted that there have been some javelin coaching sessions without a proper marked off area. The Committee noted that poles and tape have been purchased for marking off throws areas, and that there should be a firm commitment to throws safety at KAC.
3) Lewisham Council & GLL plan to relay the track in 2027, which will require a closing of the arena for several weeks. We do not as yet have the dates or duration of the relay, but will monitor the situation and may investigate other facilities for track training if necessary.
4) The AGM date was set for 17 November.
5) The next Committee meeting will be on 7 September.
EVENT CALENDAR
July 19 – SAL – Cambridge
25 – Beckenham parkrun takeover
28 – Post track social
30 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
August 8 – SAL – Dartford
12 – Social run 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
25 – Post track social
September 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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 INFORMED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us appraised 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.
Wimbledon, Tour de France, World Cup, F1, Challenge Roth… there’s no shortage of sports to be watching this weekend, but Kent AC came out in force to cheer, volunteer, run and jump at the Ron Hale Open at the track today. A full report of all events will follow, but for now to say a massive well done and thank you to everyone who organised it – and everyone who took part too.
Read on for a report of this week’s Assembly League fixture at Sutcliffe Park (spoiler: we smashed it). And mark your diaries for some summer social events this month where post-running rehydration will be just as, if not more, important than the running itself…see you there!
Social Run – Wednesday 15th July 🌞
The next social run will be on Wednesday 15th July (NB this is instead of 8th July). Meet from 6:50pm at Brockley Brewery (Brockley site) and be ready to run a leisurely route from 7pm!
parkrun Takeover – Saturday 25th July 🌳
Our July takeover will be on 25th July at Beckenham Place (instead of the 11th, as the parkrun is cancelled next weekend). Feel free to wear your Kent vest! Post-run coffees in the courtyard.
SUPER SUTCLIFFE
As is now tradition for the first Thursday of the month over the summer, this week saw the fourth Assembly League fixture. Sutcliffe Park hosted for a fast and furious three lap course around the park. Our ladies team dominated, with Amelia Pettitt leading the charge home, followed by Alexa Parker, Aisling Ahern and Lin Skinner. Our men’s team had a tight tussle with the Cambridge Harriers team, with Calum Fraser first in for the team, followed by Joe Vis, Matt Speed and Dave Morgan. Thanks to everyone for coming out – see you next month in Victoria Park!
EVENT CALENDAR
July 19 – SAL – Cambridge 15 – Post-track Social
25 – Beckenham parkrun takeover
August 6 – Assembly League – Victoria Park 8 – SAL – Dartford 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
Sepember 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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 INFORMED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us appraised 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.
Many of the scheduled events that would have been reported here evaporated in this week’s record-breaking heat. Some hardy types turned up at the track/furnace last Tuesday and Thursday, but most preferred to be early-doors shade-seeking missiles in bosky parks.
With the Dulwich relays cancelled, Battersea’s Run Through event cancelled and Saturday’s KYAL also cancelled, it was up to Saturday’s parkrun and Sunday’s much-anticipated North Downs Run to create some hype. The NDR, bucking the trend, was in fact cooler that usual this year than years gone by.
Respect to all those who slogged through a parkrun yesterday, but huge kudos goes to any women (we salute you, Gen), who were carrying a little passenger…here’s our little posse of veteran mums, new mums and mums-to-be-from Dulwich parkrun yesterday:
Then there was the little matter of the North Downs Run the following day (Sun 28 June) and Kent AC, produced a good show-up, albeit a smaller team than usual:
A round of applause for the chap in the red cap on the right – our illustrious president Jules Gevers – who won the BMAF bronze in this gruelling race.
Congratulations, too, to Steve Scobie, who won bronze in his age category at the Marathon Mont Blanc, despite the punishing heat:
In other news, we have our latest SAL report (the competition took place last Sunday but went on too long for our reporter on the ground to verify all the results); a reminder of the Assembly League next Thursday and more details about the Ron Hale Open.
There are still places available for multiple events for the Ron Hale Open on July 5. Do join in, as a competitor, spectator or volunteer.
Please also note that if you have not yet paid for your EA Registration for 2026/7 and take part in races please do so by the end of this weekend (latest Monday) so that it can be processed before the end of the month. This is the end of the EA grace period. You can pay via the Kent AC online store. This mainly applies to those who do not pay annual club fees (life members, honorary members, coaches).
SAL REPORT
Alex Harris writes:
‘At the SAL, the women’s group had some brave performances in the crushing heat the summer solstice. Highlights included an Irish 1,2 in the 3,000m from Teresa Murphy and Aisling Ahern, to win both A and B strings. Ellie Hepple made an elegant debut in her first ever 400m hurdles race. Shamariah put the rest of the field on Notice as she picked up points across multiple sprint events, notably 3rd place in the 200m. Special mention also to Jo and Sofia who kept us organised. There were too many other women to name, smashing a whole cocktail of events – well done to all who donned the singlet and the factor 50 to represent the club.
On the men’s side it was a brave team performance, filling almost all events including a last minute entry from Che Compton in the Steeplechase. The standout event of the day was the 1500m with Theo Gaymes running a fine tactical race to take the overall victory with a strong last lap and Bert Royle close behind to win the B String. Theo also ran an excellent 400m in 51.2 to finish 3rd against strong competition. Elsewhere, we did well in the 3000m with Calum Fraser 2nd A string and Olly Buck winning the B String. A big shout out to all out multi eventers especially James Bowler and Narciso Lopez Guerrero who covered all four throws. James also scored good points in the vertical jumps despite starting the day with a sprained ankle.
Overall, the Kent AC team put in a spirited performance in trying conditions. There is all to play for in the two remaining matches. Club men and women, Kent AC needs YOU at the next SAL on 19th July in Cambridge! Sign up here.
Finally, thanks to our officials for volunteering and helping score valuable points.’
IN RON’S FOOTSTEPS
The annual Ron Hale Open will be held at the Alex Yee Arena on Sunday 5 July. This is our big summer event. Ron Hale was a fine athlete and a member of this club for 70 years before he died in 2023.
Entry costs cover the hire of the track and electronic timing, and refreshments and expenses for volunteers and officials. Please contact Dan if you’d like to compete but cannot afford the entry fee.
We will have 100m, 300m (juniors only), 400m, 3000m and hurdles, plus high jump and long jump. Do enter if you want to compete, try an event, or just set a good time; sign up here Entries close 30 June
This year there’ll be a 4x100m relay, so if you’d like to compete in that
please express interest here We will need lots of volunteers to put this on, helping with putting out hurdles, crowd control, registration, lap counting, pit raking, and plenty more. If you’re available on the day, please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell to offer your services.
ASSEMBLY LEAGUE THIS THURSDAY
Sutcliffe Park – Thursday 2nd July at 19:30
The fourth Assembly League race of the season is Thursday night in Sutcliffe Park
There is a new Race HQ at the John Roan Sports Club, where there are changing rooms and we can leave bags during the race. Their bar will be open after the race and they’ll be serving pizzas. They are letting the league use the clubhouse for free, so we’re being encouraged to make use of the bar afterwards. The sports club is a 2 – 3 minute jog from the start.
Race HQ address: John Roan School Playing Fields, 50 Kidbrooke Park Rd, London SE3 9NF
The race is a 5km on paths round the park. It’s a slight variation on the Parkrun course.
The club covers everyone’s fees, so all you need to do to run is turn up on the night, collect a number from the Kent envelope and register on the spreadsheet (which will be sent round closer to the time.) Please do not re-use a number from a previous race.
FAQ What is the Assembly League? A series of 6 races from April to September. The races are usually the first Thursday of the month.
How long are the races? They are all approximately 5km.
Can anyone run? Yes! The Assembly League is open to runners of all abilities.
How much does it cost? The club covers everyone’s entry fees. If you are a Kent AC member you can run for free.
How do I register and get the results? Collect a number from the Kent AC envelope and register on the spreadsheet that is sent out. Please do register on the spreadsheet, it causes a lot of work for the team managers and the person that does the results if you don’t. Results are usually available a couple of days after the race.
What do I need? Your Kent AC vest and pins. There generally isn’t anywhere secure to leave valuables, so best not to bring too many with you.
JUNIOR NEWS
Well done to all the young athletes who competed at the South of England Championships in blistering heat this weekend.
Bert Royle U18B got a PB of 4:15.77 in the 1500m.
Zac Murray U14B got through the 80H heats and came 6th in the final.
Otis Atlee U14B ran a PB of 26.48s in the 200m and made it through the long jump heats to the final with a 6th place PB of 461cm.
Claudia Rigby U16G competed in the 300H.
Vwede Fydoro-Okiti (age 12 – U14 Boys) improved his 100m PB by four tenths of a second, running 13.14.
Vwegba Fydoro-Okiti (age 15 – U16 Boys) recorded a solid 11.99 in the 100m despite a strong headwind.
Shekinah Acheampong (age 14 – U16 Women) jumped a Triple Jump PB of 10.26m, improving by exactly 50cm.
Zoe Folarin (age 13 – U16 Girls) made a promising Triple Jump debut, recording 9.24m.
Thanks so much to coaches for all of their hard work in getting athletes ready to compete.
EVENT CALENDAR
June 30 – Post-track Social
July 2 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park 5 – Ron Hale Open – Alex Yee Arena 19 – SAL – Cambridge 15 – Post-track Social
25 – Beckenham parkrun takeover
August 6 – Assembly League – Victoria Park 8 – SAL – Dartford 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
Sepember 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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 INFORMED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us appraised 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.
A delayed newsletter for you today as your editors were variously active yesterday, one of them doing a half ironman triathlon in the Netherlands, one helping out in the heat at the SAL in Watford. There’s much more heat to come this week, so take care with your efforts and hydration.
Full results and report from the SAL will come next week, but we managed to put out a mostly full team (accounting for the usual multi-event heroes) with fine results in some events, particularly in the middle distances, the standouts being 1st A and B string in the women’s 3000m (Aisling Ahern and Teresa Murphy) and 1st A & B in the men’s 1500m (Theo Gaymes and Bert Royle)
Aside from track and field, as we get into summer members find different challenges, so this week we have an ultramarathon special feature. Last week Alex Morales ran the Montane Spine Challenger South, a 108 mile trail race with 18,000ft of elevation, which took him over 41 hours. He was 40th out of 150 starters, which is a huge achievement in his first race of that distance. He’s written a full report of his experience, down below.
On Saturday, three of our stalwart Kent women ran a 50k trail race in West Sussex – Sarah Young writes up the experience below. Suzanne Spalding and Nicola Cartlidge finished the race in 6:05, Sarah in 6:39, 1st VW60 by over an hour.
Lucy Atlee, juniors co-secretary, has a roundup of youth action below.
At the Vets AC 5000m at Battersea last week,several Kent Masters set good times – Roger Beardsworth (19:33), Vicky Boyle (19:35), Jules Gevers (19:55), Nicola Papalini (21:26), Karina Box (22:04) and Narciso Guerrero (24:33)
Finally, a shoutout to one of our editors, Claire Oxlade, who completed the West Friesland 70.3 triathlon in 5hrs 16 mins, including an impressive 95 minute half marathon. This was her second medal of the month after receiving an MBE in the King’s birthday honours!
Don’t forget the Dulwich Relays on Wednesday, although be alert to hot weather warnings.
And there are still places available for multiple events for the Ron Hale Open on July 5. Do join in, as a competitor, spectator or volunteer.
ULTRA SPECIAL #1
AlexMorales writes:
Anyone who’s dabbled in ultras in the UK at some point will hear about the country’s most daunting non-stop race, The Spine, which covers 268 miles of the Pennine Way from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders.
With winter and summer editions, the distance alone would put most people off, let alone the 10,700 metres of ascent, the endless bogs and the prospect of running in either freezing or boiling conditions on little-to-no sleep while carrying several kilos of mandatory gear.
The Spine organisers have cottoned on to that and the full Spine has spawned several what I would call “gateway” races to lure the suffering-curious runners among us.
And that’s how I found myself running the 108-mile Spine Challenger South last weekend. (Also on offer: the 160-mile Challenger North, and 43-mile and 46-mile “sprints” north and south.)
The build-up was dominated by ensuring I had all the required items in my pack — and that they met the race organiser’s standards. Waterproofs need to meet a certain rating; footwear has to be in decent condition, and you need items ranging from a whistle and first aid kit to poo bags (which I hoped never to have to use). You also need basic map reading skills (although in practice, I did not use my map or compass once, because any decent GPS watch fitted with maps and loaded with the route will get you around.)
On the start line, there was a clear favourite, Christopher Cope. Others looked like they were chomping at the bit to stride out, but the bulk of us were in it to finish it, rather than to contest the podium.
It’s very hard to judge what pace to move at when attempting a race quite so long, especially if you’ve never attempted one before. But I knew that sprinting from the get-go was a passport to a DNF, not to mention exacerbating all the nutrition problems I’ve struggled with in recent ultras.
For a mid-pack runner like me, these events are not run even remotely close to marathon pace, and I resolved to run only the flats and the downhills that weren’t too steep, with a steady walk for the rest of the terrain. Soon enough, I settled into a comfortable rhythm, interrupted periodically by gradient changes, kit adjustments and snacks.
I had an alarm to remind me to eat small amounts every half hour, having been told that my nausea and digestion problems from races past probably stemmed from not doing so frequently enough. (I won’t pretend to be an expert in the science, but my understanding is that you basically need to remind your body to keep the blood flowing to the digestive system when it would otherwise divert it to your main current activity — running.)
It’s possible to spend a lot of the time in ultras running alone because relatively small fields get strung out pretty quickly. But I ran much of the first half with an NHS psychiatrist, and our conversation spanned the origins of the red and white spinning barbers’ pole to the history of the reservoirs we were running alongside, which had been built by his ancestors. Eventually I left him behind and entered the race’s sole checkpoint alongside a Yorkshirewoman who lived nearby and begrudged having to run a short stretch on asphalt.
The checkpoint at the scout centre in Hebden Hey was a chance to have a hot shower, change kit and eat a welcome meal of chicken and rice. The psychiatrist came in soon after me and we resolved to have a 90-minute lie-down on the camp beds provided, before setting off together again in darkness, just after midnight, without really having slept. Another 62 miles to go.
The night-running was surreal, dominated by the sound of a thumping rave we could hear coming from a house across the valley, which we passed later on just as revellers were leaving and the beats had subsided. The psychiatrist dropped back and told me he’d catch me on the next climb (This made sense: he’d been stronger than me on all the climbs, while I favoured the downhills). But I didn’t see him again and spent most of the rest of the race alone. My morning was dominated by thoughts of sleep as I assessed and discarded various locations for a bivvy. At Gargrave, I met my husband in a pub for breakfast (the race rules say you’re not allowed to accept anything from a supporter, but you are allowed to stop at restaurants and cafes, as they’re forms of assistance available to all runners).
Then it was onwards for the final third of the race, taking in some beautiful scenery and the limestone pavement at Malham Cove. I ran for a bit with the Yorkshirewoman, until she stopped to attend to her feet and I tried —unsuccessfully — to grab some sleep in my bivvy on what turned out to be a patch of grass rich in hidden thistles. At Malham Tarn, the race’s wonderful volunteers plied me with biscuits and melon and refilled my water. Then it was onwards to the final major obstacle of the day, Pen y Ghent, featuring what I knew from my recces to be a fairly hairy climb. I was grateful to get there before dark, as I would not have fancied a nigh-time ascent.
Seeing that a finish before midnight was (very) vaguely attainable, I tried to make some good time on the descent — by which I mean stringing together a few sub 10-minute kilometres (this isn’t marathon pace, remember?). I stopped at a pub in Horton for some soup, before heading out on the final 24-kilometre stretch taking in the interminable Cam High Road in the dark. I didn’t see another soul until 2 kilometres from the finish.
It was on this stretch that I paid for my lack of sleep, and I did much of it in a trance-like state, closing my eyes for several steps at a time, staggering occasionally and giving myself repeated talkings to to be mindful of the potentially fatal drop to my left. I also had hallucinations, though they felt more like stills from dreams, and I surprised myself every now and then by speaking words out aloud that I hadn’t expected to utter. A frog rebuffed my attempts at a conversation (and I later discovered a dozen photos of the poor amphibian on my phone).
Finally I ran into Hawes and then through some fields to Hardraw for the finish at just past 1:30 a.m. I was greeted by some ever-cheerful volunteers and given a medal, a certificate and some refreshments before a kind member of the team drove me back to my hotel in Hawes. Over breakfast later that morning, I idly checked the race-tracker and saw that my doctor friend was soon to pass through Hawes. I hobbled down the road to greet him and walked with him for a few hundred metres. His foot had swollen up with tendonitis, and he’d pushed on through the pain. He’d also had to guide another contestant down Pen y Ghent in a state of apparent delirium. We hugged and I left him to hobble the final 2 kilometres to be greeted at the finish by his wife and four kids.
My final time was just over 41 1/2 hours — almost twice as long as it took the winner, Chris Cope. He’d set a course record, beaten second place by more than five hours and third place by almost 10. But for the bulk of us, it wasn’t about the time, it was about the setting, the people, the camaraderie.
ULTRA SPECIAL #2
Sarah Young writes:
Cajoled into indulging my new decade, Nicola Cartlidge, Suze Spalding and I took part in our first ultra marathon across the South Downs, offering us a scenic, runnable mix of chalk trails, woodland, farmland and coastal paths. The 50km Coastal route is billed as a nice if not easy entry level ultra – and didn’t disappoint.
The race village had a festival feel to it, fluttering flags, coffee and food trucks as well as a few knights, or kings in shining armour ensuring we were in the race pen in time to get us started.
The route starts off grassy and traily (important note for next time – start nearer the front of the pack!), then gets a bit seaweed-stinky and estuarine for a while and finishes with a few sharp ups and downs, presenting a serious test for the knees.
Overall elevation was touching 500 metres – freewheeling down hill naturally meant a climb back up, several times!
Sarah. Nicala and Suze
Back through the festival flags and over the finish to cheers from spectators and runners alike.
Whilst the weather was incredibly humid, we were lucky to start out under a gentle mizzle and to finish with sunshine just breaking through the clouds.
Overall a great day out with fabulously stocked pit stops, plentiful clean toilets, friendly marshals, a hot meal and showers, as well as live music to enjoy a beer in the sunshine at the end and a lovely atmosphere; just an all round prefect first ultra experience.
It’s definitely got us eyeing up the next level up in the Threshold Trail Series for next year’s adventure! 100kms beckons!
YOUTH ROUND-UP
Lucy Atlee, juniors co-secretary, writes:
Kent AC Juniors at London, Kent and Independent Schools Track and Field Championships and the London Youth Games
A number of Kent athletes made it through borough championships to compete at the London and Kent School finals this week picking up medals, PBs and great competition experiences.
U14
Evie Atanda travelled to London Schools Athletics Championships to compete in the 70mH and javelin for Southwark. Evie qualified for the 70m hurdles final with the fastest time overall and a new PB of 12.1 seconds and carried that form into the final to win gold. She finished the day with another PB of 14.57m in the javelin
Otis Atlee, competed for Southwark in the Long Jump and won Silver in the 4×100 with the Southwark team.
Emerson Hunter Stuart competed for Lewisham in the Javelin winning Bronze.
U16/U18
Claudia Rigby won a Silver medal in the 300mH.
Eleanor Davidson competed in the 800m at the Kent Schools Championships winning Bronze with a PB of 2.26
Derek Olewunne competed in the 200m at the Kent Schools winning a Silver Medal with a new 23.11s PB.
Well done to Ola Oladipo and Zy’shae Brown-Thomas who competed at the London Schools Champs coming 5th and 6th in the 100m final, both with new PBs, Zy’shae running 11.50s and Ola 11.65s in their heats.
At the Independent Schools Association Athletics Finals Zac Murray came 2nd in the 80mH and Joshua Pinna-Griffith won Silver in the 4x100m relays.
London Youth Games
Four Kent AC athletes competed at the London Youth Games in sweltering heat on Sunday, Tom Brain ran a fantastic 1500m taking silver with a PB of 4:45, Evie Atanda got a PB in Long Jump of 4.15M and came second in the 100m B Final with a PB of 13.68s, Otis Atlee came third in the 200m B final with a PB of 26.52s, Zen Ntiamoah ran a superb 1500m and Luke Morrison threw a brilliant javelin PB of 19m.
RON HALE OPEN
The annual Ron Hale Open will be held at the Alex Yee Arena on Sunday 5 July. We will have 100m, 300m (juniors only), 400m, 3000m and hurdles, plus high jump and long jump. Do enter if you want to compete, try an event, or just set a good time or mark. Entries are open now, sign up here
We will need lots of volunteers to put this on, helping with putting out hurdles, crowd control, registration, lap counting, pit raking, and plenty more. If you’re available on the day, please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell to offer your services.
ON FORM
Narciso from C Group has proposed a series of form/technique training workshops during June and July. What is being proposed is a training block of sessions to be held on Thursday evenings (same time as usual) focusing on form and technique as a summer camp, for middle distance/endurance runners. If there is sufficient interest – 10-15 people committing to attend regularly – (in order to gain meaningful benefits), coach Ted has kindly agreed to design and run these sessions. There is also an option of running it on Sunday mornings but this can be finalised once we have an indication of interest. People can indicate interest by sending a WhatsApp to Narciso 07476721272.
EVENT CALENDAR
June 24 – Dulwich Relays 27 – KYAL – U14/U16 – Dartford 30 – Post-track Social
July 2 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park 5 – Ron Hale Open – Alex Yee Arena 19 – SAL – Cambridge 28 – Post-track Social August 6 – Assembly League – Victoria Park 8 – SAL – Dartford 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
Sepember 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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 INFORMED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us appraised 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.
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The annual Ron Hale Open will be held at the Alex Yee Arena on Sunday 5 July. We will have 100m, 300m (juniors only), 400m, 3000m and hurdles, plus high jump and long jump. Do enter if you want to compete, try an event, or just set a good time or mark. Entries are open now, sign up here
We will need lots of volunteers to put this on, helping with putting out hurdles, crowd control, registration, lap counting, pit raking, and plenty more. If you’re available on the day, please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell to offer your services.
It was a quieter week for Kent AC, but there were a few midweek track races at which runners set impressive PBs.
At a Blackheath and Bromley open meet on Monday, Louis Holley (U18) ran 1:59 in the 800m.
On Tuesday Harry Forman Wilshaw (U23) ran the 1500m in a BMC event in Manchester, winning his race in a big PB of 3:50.77.
At Wimbledon on Wednesday there was a series of 3000m races. Isaac Parker ran 8:45, Jim allchin 8:56, Bert Royle (U18) 9:05, and Clare Elms 10:31, 3 seconds outside the VW60 WR.
And on Friday at the Peckham Pacers event at Southwark track 17 Kent members ran 5000m races – Noah Armitage Hookes won the A race in 14:36, with Joe Hartley 2nd in 15:21. Calum Fraser set a PB in 15:38, with Mikhail Krivomazov coming home in 15:52. Matteo Gaia’s PB of 15:54 in 2nd place in the B race was the other Kent highlight of the night, which was followed by enthusiastic socials.
Next week we have the 2nd SAL track and field fixture of the season,at Watford on Sunday. Train travel is covered by the club if you go with the group. We still have a lot of events unfilled, it’s looking to be great weatherm, so if you want to spend a day in the sun participating in and watching track and field events, please sign up.
Our next home event is the Ron Hale Open on Sunday 5 July. We have several track and two field events, do sign up if you fancy competing or setting a PB, or if you’re available to help out on the day.
And finally, we’re changing the format of our Club Draw. Since the start it’s been £6 per month for the chance to win £250 each month – you get allocated a number (of 59), and if it matches the bonus ball from the National Lottery Draw then you win. From next month we’re making it a weekly prize of £60. It’s a small fundraiser for the club, and a bit of fun. If you’d like to take part, please contact Phil at treasurer@kentac.org.uk
RON HALE OPEN
The annual Ron Hale Open will be held at the Alex Yee Arena on Sunday 5 July. We will have 100m, 300m (juniors only), 400m, 3000m and hurdles, plus high jump and long jump. Do enter if you want to compete, try an event, or just set a good time or mark. Entries are open now, sign up here
We will need lots of volunteers to put this on, helping with putting out hurdles, crowd control, registration, lap counting, pit raking, and plenty more. If you’re available on the day, please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell to offer your services.
ON FORM
Narciso from C Group has proposed a series of form/technique training workshops during June and July. What is being proposed is a training block of sessions to be held on Thursday evenings (same time as usual) focusing on form and technique as a summer camp, for middle distance/endurance runners. If there is sufficient interest – 10-15 people committing to attend regularly – (in order to gain meaningful benefits), coach Ted has kindly agreed to design and run these sessions. There is also an option of running it on Sunday mornings but this can be finalised once we have an indication of interest. People can indicate interest by sending a WhatsApp to Narciso 07476721272.
EVENT CALENDAR
June 21 – SAL – Watford 24 – Dulwich Relays 27 – KYAL – U14/U16 – Dartford 30 – Post-track Social
July 2 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park 5 – Ron Hale Open – Alex Yee Arena 19 – SAL – Cambridge 28 – Post-track Social August 6 – Assembly League – Victoria Park 8 – SAL – Dartford 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
Sepember 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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 INFORMED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us appraised 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.
Ah the great British summertime! Rain may have made for some miserable track nights this week, but the weather cleared for long enough for 51 Kent AC runners to charge around this month’s Assembly League race at Crystal Palace, with some terrific runs to boot! Well done to Calum Fraser for being first Kent man home, with Joe Vis hot on his heels and Daniel Steel as third scorer… with Kent making up 8 of the top 12! First woman home was Amelia Pettitt, and then Iona Cousland – both showing that hills are no match for their marathon-fresh legs – with Alexa Parker rounding up to come in third. Thanks as ever to Richard Elliot for organising everyone and helping to rectify the results afterwards too. See you next month for Sutcliffe!
This week also saw the Veterans AC Championships at Battersea, with Clare Elms not only winning the women’s race, but lowering her own 5km W60 World Record to an absolutely incredible 17:45!
Showing that winter miles really do make for summer smiles, Vic Cartwright showed that it’s not just cross-country hills where she thrives – in the Methley canal race series, Vic came First first lady and set a huge and well-deserved (but not surprising!) 5km PB of 19:02!
Rounding out the weekend, today saw Che Compton finish the Swansea Half Marathon in 74:03, coming 2nd V50. In Dorking, Chris Busaileh came 5th in the 10 miler in 54:17.
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ONE MONTH TO GO – RON HALE OPEN
The annual Ron Hale Open will be held at the Alex Yee Arena on Sunday 5 July. We will have 100m, 300m (juniors only), 400m, 3000m and hurdles, plus high jump and long jump. Do enter if you want to compete, try an event, or just set a good time or mark. Entries are open now, sign up here
We will need lots of volunteers to put this on, helping with putting out hurdles, crowd control, registration, lap counting, pit raking, and plenty more. If you’re available on the day, please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell to offer your services.
ON FORM
Narciso from C Group has proposed a series of form/technique training workshops during June and July. What is being proposed is a training block of sessions to be held on Thursday evenings (same time as usual) focusing on form and technique as a summer camp, for middle distance/endurance runners. If there is sufficient interest – 10-15 people committing to attend regularly – (in order to gain meaningful benefits), coach Ted has kindly agreed to design and run these sessions. There is also an option of running it on Sunday mornings but this can be finalised once we have an indication of interest. People can indicate interest by sending a WhatsApp to Narciso 07476721272.
EVENT CALENDAR
June 21 – SAL – Watford 24 – Dulwich Relays 27 – KYAL – U14/U16 – Dartford 30 – Post-track Social
July 2 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park 5 – Ron Hale Open – Alex Yee Arena 19 – SAL – Cambridge 28 – Post-track Social August 6 – Assembly League – Victoria Park 8 – SAL – Dartford 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
Sepember 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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).
It was an auspicious post-track shindig last Tuesday. Given that it was the hottest, stickiest evening we’ve had so far this year, Kent AC runners must have been counting the minutes until their session was over and they could indulge in some refreshments and applaud the winners of the 2025/6 Outstanding Achievement awards:
Alexa Parker and Owen Hind won trophies for their 5000m performances:
Catherine Kandie won the prestigious Best Women’s Performance category:
It has been another great week for Clare Elms, who, as well as receiving Honorary Membership and a trophy for Outstanding Performer, went on to perform outstandingly in the Wimbledon 1500 Festival, where she broke her own world record to run the distance in 4.56.77. Then, a couple of days later, she treated herself to a leisurely 18:16 5km race in the Last Friday of the Month event. Her extraordinary abilities are once again highlighted in a piece in Runners’ World. I still have the 2007 RW that features her achievements as a forty-something mother of young triplets. And here she is, 62 and a total phenomenon:
Those awards in full, (and excellent handing-out, by the way, Chairman Jules)
Best performance 1500 Aisling Ahern
and Cameron Dockerill
Best cross country Amelia Pettitt, Noah Armitage-Hookes
Best cross country Grand Prix Aisling Ahern, Matt Speed
Best Track and Field performance Amy Clements, who also received an Honorary Membership
Most track Points Alex Harris
Best Road performance John Gilbert
CONGRATULATIONS!
More about those 1500m races at the Wimbledon Festival: Guy Barnett ran 4:19:18, Isaac Parker scored a PB with 4:02:63, Olly Buck ran 4:07:90 and Noah Armitage-Hookes’s 3:55:52 PB won him his race.
On Thursday Narcisso was the only Kent AC runner to compete in the hilly South London Harriers 10K NADI (that’s Near As Damn It). It’s the first race of a series of three that takes place every summer, and he thoroughly recommends it: check the SLH website for the next one. Taking it slowly owing to heat and Marathon legs, he ran 1:04:20, and clearly enjoyed himself:
In Birmingham on Saturday night, Harry Foreman came second in his 800m heat in 1:49:67, a great PB at the BMC Grand Prix.
The following day, a crack team of Kent AC runners took on the Manchester 10K: Ross Braden ran 30:30,
Richard Giles, 35:17; Caoimhe Nic Fhogartaigh, 38:17; John Maycock, 38:35.
Shining star of this weekend, however, has to be Lin Skinner, who braved the heat in Horspath, Oxford to run a mile in 5:33 and become the British Masters VW50 Mile Champion. Extraordinary work, Lin:
Now some reminders: we have Assembly League on Thursday, 4 June at Crystal Palace Park. All details of how to join in these free races are on the WhatsApp, but, to reiterate: these races are free to paid-up members, first Thursday of the month in the evening (sometimes 7pm, others 7.30pm, do check) but you have to be a member of Kent AC and England Athletics…so… if you haven’t renewed your membership yet, you won’t be able to participate, so go ahead and renew, it’s easy to do, just hit the link on your reminder email. For other upcoming events, including the Dulwich Relays, see the diary section, below.
OPEN TO ALL
The annual Ron Hale Open will be held at the Alex Yee Arena on Sunday 5 July. We will have 100m, 300m (juniors only), 400m, 3000m and hurdles, plus high jump and long jump. Do enter if you want to compete, try an event, or just set a good time or mark. Entries are open now, sign up here
We will need lots of volunteers to put this on, helping with putting out hurdles, crowd control, registration, lap counting, pit raking, and plenty more. If you’re available on the day, please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell to offer your services.
ON FORM
Narciso from C Group has proposed a series of form/technique training workshops during June and July. What is being proposed is a training block of sessions to be held on Thursday evenings (same time as usual) focusing on form and technique as a summer camp, for middle distance/endurance runners. If there is sufficient interest – 10-15 people committing to attend regularly – (in order to gain meaningful benefits), coach Ted has kindly agreed to design and run these sessions. There is also an option of running it on Sunday mornings but this can be finalised once we have an indication of interest. People can indicate interest by sending a WhatsApp to Narciso 07476721272.
EVENT CALENDAR
June 4 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace 21 – SAL – Watford 24 – Dulwich Relays 27 – KYAL – U14/U16 – Dartford 30 – Post-track Social
July 2 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park 5 – Ron Hale Open – Alex Yee Arena 19 – SAL – Cambridge 28 – Post-track Social August 6 – Assembly League – Victoria Park 8 – SAL – Dartford 23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
Sepember 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena 29 – Post-track Social
The usual track times are: Tuesday 17:00 – 20:45 Thursday 17:00 – 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).
A delayed newsletter for you this bank holiday weekend as your editor acclimatises to the heat. We have lots of action roundups for you, from last week’s SAL, silverware at the Beckenham Relays in midweek, and Saturday’s KYAL in Dartford.
It’s going to be hot all week, so if you make it to the track tomorrow, you’re invited to the post-track social at 8pm to cool off and chat with other members.
Entries are open for the Ron Hale Games on Sunday July 5th, multiple track and field events. See below for signup details, and if you’re available please volunteer to help out – these events can only happen if people contribute.
In other events, we had a few runners in Edinburgh for the marathon and half marathon. While not as hot as London, it was certainly hard going for the runners up there. Callum Anderson was 5th placed in 2:37, a terrific result, and Hayley Ann Cherry was 10th woman (2nd VW35) in 3:06. Paul McCrone finished in 3:53, and Katie Good (87:25) and Sally Urquhart (1:44) ran the half.
Much further afield, Che Compton ran the spectacular Cape Town marathon in 2:40:37, which must have been a great experience!
Enjoy the hot weather, take care in the sun, and hope to see you at the track tomorrow evening!
RON HALE OPEN
The annual Ron Hale Open will be held at the Alex Yee Arena on Sunday 5 July. We will have 100m, 300m (juniors only), 400m, 3000m and hurdles, plus high jump and long jump.
Do enter if you want to compete, try an event, or just set a good time or mark.
We will need lots of volunteers to put this on, helping with putting out hurdles, crowd control, registration, lap counting, pit raking, and plenty more. If you’re available on the day, please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell to offer your services.
SAL REPORT
This year’s Southern Athletics League opened for us lasty week in Eltham. We finished 5th out of 6 teams with 177 points in a hard-fought competition. We had 30 members competing in either one or multiple events, many setting PBs to work on for the rest of the summer.
Our regular thrower and jumper James Bowler competed in the most events, totalling 5 across the day. It was great to see James joined by some keen members of Adrian’s group who were prepped for the day by Nicky Hayes. Thank you Nicky for the throws training and to Narciso, Rob and Tom for all adding to the final team score.
Good luck to all our junior athletes doing exams at the moment, we hope to see you at the track through the summer. We had great results from all our U18s and U20s: Robin Clarke came 3rd in the 200m (24.24) gaining 8 points throughout the day.
Bert Royale (U18) bagged a PB in 1500m (4:17), coming in first for the B strings. Bert really worked through the pack in the 4 x 400m relay, in a team alongside Louis Holley (U18), Olly Buck and Joe Hartley, who saved the team by stepping in last minute after winning the SC. Isaac Parker won the 1500m A string (4:06.51).
Nic Chevis also stepped in last minute for the strong 100m mens relay team after 3 other events.
Mei Eden-Green (U18) competed in 4 events with PBs in 200m and high jump. Eliza Pitt (U18) came 3rd in the women’s SC A string also with a PB (8:41.46) followed by Vic Cartwright winning in the B string (8:59.23), also a PB.
Both Mei and Eliza made up our 400m relay team with Lin Skinner and Aisling Ahern. Lin raced multiple events too including 1500m (5:16.46) and PBs in 800m (2:32.59) and 400m (69.86). Aisling won both her B string races 1500m (5:12.92) and a debut in the 800m (2:39.16). We had a really strong turn out for the women’s middle distance events.
All results are now up on Power of 10 and the SAL website
All volunteer officials and competitors earn points. All dates are listed below and in the sign up sheet. The next fixture is 21st June in Watford: we would love to see you there.
BECKENHAM RELAYS
On Wednesday 20th May, 30 athletes proudly represented the mighty blue vest at the annual Beckenham Relays – and what a night it was for Kent AC.
We’ll start with our wonderful women’s teams. Kent AC fielded four women’s teams this year, and they certainly didn’t disappoint, winning the competition yet again.
Leading the way for the A team was multiple world record holder Clare Elms, alongside Claire Oxlade, Karina Box and Sally Urquhart on the opening leg. Clare produced a superb first leg to put the women firmly in the driving seat, running the fastest women’s leg of the event, setting the tone for another brilliant evening. Claire, Karina and Sally were all delighted with their performances after strong opening runs. On leg two, 800m specialist Molly O’Connor extended the A team’s advantage with another impressive run.
Victoria Cartwright, Nicky Hayes and Jo Cartledge also ran strongly for the other women’s teams. Bringing it home on the final leg was Alexa Parker, who has been a key part of Kent AC’s Beckenham Relays success over recent years. Alexa guided the team to a magnificent fifth consecutive title – an incredible achievement for the club. Flo Ingram, Jo Wint and Suze Spalding also produced excellent final-leg performances for the remaining women’s teams. The women will now look ahead to next month’s Dulwich Relays, where they’ll be aiming to secure a fifth consecutive title there as well. Congratulations to all involved, and best of luck for Dulwich.
On the men’s side, Kent AC fielded six teams in another hugely competitive contest featuring local rivals Tonbridge, Dulwich, Blackheath and Bromley & Petts Wood. Joe Vis took on the opening leg for the men’s A team, handing over in 6th place after a strong run against quality opposition. Also running opening legs for Kent were Rupert Bedford, Joshua Correia, Jules Gevers and Martin Morgan.
Next up was Jake Simmonds, who found himself locked in a close battle with Tonbridge. Jake produced a brilliant 13:17 split on leg two to pull Kent AC back into the top three positions. Hugh Stickland, Michael Gibson, Pertrice and Samuel Wilcock also ran excellent second legs, showing the club’s impressive strength in depth.
The A team baton was then handed to Callum Fraser for the final leg. Having raced previous relays and Assembly League fixtures at Beckenham, Callum’s course knowledge would prove vital as he battled against Tonbridge’s Steve Strange, a sub-15-minute athlete. As Joe and Jake waited at the top of the final hill, the tension built. The lead bike appeared, with Dulwich taking victory and Blackheath & Bromley securing second place. Steve Strange held around 20 metres over Callum heading into the closing stages, but Callum dug deep and closed hard all the way to the line. Unfortunately, it wasn’t quite enough on this occasion, with the men’s A team finishing a highly respectable 4th overall. Strong final-leg performances also came from Jacob Fuller, Roger Beardsworth, Andy Wright, Jim Lynch and Abduallh.
Well done to everyone who raced, supported and signed up – another fantastic evening for Kent AC.
DARTFORD KYAL
Nicky Hayes writes: The third KYAL event of the season was held at Central Park, Dartford. We had a good turnout of enthusiastic athletes in all boys and girls age groups, supported by tireless parents and volunteers from the Club.
Despite high temperatures, soaring up to 29 degrees, our athletes performed well in both track and field. Whilst final results are awaited, we can report that U16 boys were first in 100m relays. U14 girls Phoebe Hall and Evie Atanda PB’d in 100m (13.86 and 13.76). U14 boys Vwede Fydoro -Okiti and Otis Atlee PB’d on the track (13.4 and 13.22 secs in the 100m), and in the Field, Matthew Egling achieved a PB in javelin (14m) and Otis Atlee in High Jump (1.40m).
Most importantly, all our participants demonstrated the team spirit, sporting attitude and individual responsibility that is the hallmark of Kent AC juniors. Well done everyone!
ON FORM
Narciso from C Group has proposed a series of form/technique training workshops during June and July. What is being proposed is a training block of sessions to be held on Thursday evenings (same time as usual) focusing on form and technique as a summer camp, for middle distance/endurance runners. If there is sufficient interest – 10-15 people committing to attend regularly – (in order to gain meaningful benefits), coach Ted has kindly agreed to design and run these sessions. There is also an option of running it on Sunday mornings but this can be finalised once we have an indication of interest. People can indicate interest by sending a WhatsApp to Narciso 07476721272.
EVENT CALENDAR
May 26 – Post-track Social
June
4 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace
21 – SAL – Watford 24 – Dulwich Relays
27 – KYAL – U14/U16 – Dartford
30 – Post-track Social
July
2 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – Ron Hale Open – Alex Yee Arena
19 – SAL – Cambridge
28 – Post-track Social
August
6 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
8 – SAL – Dartford
23 – KYAL – U12 – Tonbridge
September
3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
10 – Late Summer Meet – Alex Yee Arena
29 – Post-track Social
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 17:00 – 20:45
Thursday 17:00 – 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.
