<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 02/02/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 2 February 2025
Yup, there was plenty to cheer about this weekend, as our club’s dedicated members ran north, south, east and west (of Lewisham, at least), and virtually, to smash PBs, records, WAVA percentages and a little bit of pride by slipping headlong into the Catford mud for the glory of the team. As usual, though, pictures say it louder than words.
First up, the Serpentine RC Last Friday of the Month 5k race, where five of Kent AC’s finest tore round the park at pace.
Their times? Tim Sharp 17:59, Samuel Taylor 18:01, Ed Matthews 18:30, Clare Elms 18:42 and Elinor Skinner 20:00. The picture below shows Clare and Lin post their Hyde Park loops, but we received a special accolade for our Clare from the organisers:
‘I’d like to highlight the outstanding performance from Clare Elms, whose age grading of 100.4%makes her only the second person to have exceeded 100% in this long-running series.’
What a champ she is.
Lin and Clare
The five 5k runners
Saturday 1 February dawned grey and damp, and Kent AC runners scattered far and wide to make their presence felt at various parkruns. At Dulwich, the speedsters tested their mettle on the flat, unmuddied paths and Owen Hind earned himself a mention as the fourth fastest parkrun runner in the country this week. He ran 15:07. At Catford, it was Kent AC’s parkrun takeover day, and a very muddy non-PB time was had by all the smilers pictured below: Catford parkrun takeover-ers Other Kent AC parkrunners stuck to the familiar routine of Hillyfields three times up the hill. One of our members, who shall remain nameless but whose local parkrun is in fact Catford, went to Sutcliffe Park ‘to avoid the mud’.
Then today, (Sunday 2 February) the sun came out and Kent AC made the pilgrimage down to Chichester, there to run a 10K. Both Nicola Cartlidge and Suzanne Spalding PBed in 42:55 and 43:34 respectively. Martin Pollard and Ed Osborne ran 35:20 and 41:51 respectively. Ivona Gongolova paced the 50min, so helped a number of happy runners score their PBs. Pictures below. Ding dong! Nic and Suz.
There were other races of course: Caitlin Bradley was fifth Senior woman (9th woman overall) at Watford Half. On the trails, Alex Morales goes from strength to strength, placing sixth overall (fifth man) at the Pilgrims Challenge.
Then there was the monthly Kent AC trailrunners outing to Sevenoaks, culminating in a well-earned Sunday roast. What a day for it! The trailrunning gang are pictured below. Kent AC actually in Kent
Last in the weekend’s results round-up we have the extraordinary achievement from David Mohring, who evidently ran on trails, treadmill, pavements and just about anywhere to achieve this:
‘I have just completed the Badwater 267 2025 virtual ultramarathon and have managed to come in 1st place. The challenge was 267 miles in January in the fastest time. 250 lunatics from around the world toed their own start lines on 1st January and staggered to the finish on 31st.
Loved it (mostly).
‘The 267 miles is the total distance of the 3 ultra races that Badwater run and this is their way of kicking off the season. I ran an average of 8.67 miles a day (in practice, I was a bit more lumpy than this) in an average time of 6.26 per mile for a total time of 28:37:20. The runs were a mixture of along the Thames Path and in the gym on the treadmill.’
MORE MUD, PLEASE
The next Southern League cross country fixture is at Epsom next Saturday 8 February.
After that, it’s the big one: the nationals are being held on 22 February at Parliament Hill, London. After last year’s fiasco of last-minute cancellation, the premier XC race being close to public transport and actual paved car parking means everyone can once again do battle alongside the bravest and best in the country. If you’re available on 22 February and want to watch the event and contribute, the organisers have a call out for marshalls. Please contact Ben Noad at .
Look out for details about both upcoming races from your cross country captains this coming week and next.
ON THE ROAD AGAIN
Road Relays Season is fast approaching
Dates for your diaries are:
*Sunday 30 March* for the Southerns in Milton Keynes and
*Saturday 12th April* for the Nationals in Sutton Coldfield.
If you’re interested in running in either (or both!) please add your name to the sign up sheet linked below or
reach out to Alexa Parker for the women and Chris Busaileh for the men. They’re great events and always a lovely day out, especially the Nationals which is always lovely weather (without fail for the last 10 years).
For the women, teams are of 6 and the legs are about 5k in length. For the men, it’s 12 legs; 6 long of around 8k and 6 short which around 5k.
We’d love to take two teams to each event (at least two to the Southerns). The teams do NOT have to be the same teams at both events, so if you are only available for one date that’s fine.
April 3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park 12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield 26 – KYAL – Ashford 27 – London Marathon
May 1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park 10 – (provisional date, tbc) Ladywell 10000/100 17 – SAL – Dartford 18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley) 29 – (tbc) Early summer meet
June 5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park 22 – SAL – Woodford Green
July 3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park 5 – KYAL – Medway Park 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
IT COULD BE YOU
Our treasurer David notes that there are six numbers still available for the monthly sweepstake – it allocates lottery numbers to participants and costs £6 a month (annual cost £72) with the chance to win £250, the surplus going to held fund the club. Please contact David at if you’d like to join in. To whet your appetite: the bonus ball last night was No. 2:
£250 on its way to Brian Sanders
SUPPORTING EACH OTHER
The welfare team work hard to build a friendly, supportive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome; with mutual respect and positive communication – whether on the track, during training sessions, on WhatsApp or in person. Let’s keep the positive andcompetitive vibes going and make sure our club stays a place which everyone enjoys being part of.
A reminder of the Kent AC code of conduct can be found here.
Welfare Team
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
Buying your pass in January gives you 11 months for the price of 12.
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.
All we have to offer is mud, sweat and a podium finish
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 26/01/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 26 January 2025
One of the highlights of the year is the Southern Cross Country Championships, held for the last few years at our local Beckenham Place Park, and yesterday in surprisingly benign weather Kent AC turned up en masse and achieved their third podium result in three years. Full report of the day below.
Sofia and Sarah
A few Kent runners avoided the mud and hills and instead ran a flat 10 miles in Canterbury, Victoria Buck running 68:37, Dan Lineham 68:58 and Karen Samuel 88:33.
Len Reilly sends this race report from the Vets XC last weekend:
“Kent AC again punched above its weight at last Saturday’s Vets AC club cross country championship at Wimbledon common. Our three starters, of a field of about 75 produced an outright winner, two age group winners and an age group second. Clare Elms took overall honours and the wv60 title, Vic Buck the wv50 title and Len Reilly the mv60 runner up. Prizes were awarded in 5 year age groups to mv80 and wv70. Inspiring.”
“The event was ousted from its previous more challenging course by the golfing lobby and last week, its second year of use, was further curtailed by landscape works at Queen’s Mere. It’s an out and back of a long, stony, flat straight, a down and up to and from the pond and another long flat, stony straight, then repeated. If the course is uninspiring, in all other respects the event is a triumph: friendly, low-key, good value, swift results, brisk presentation at Belgrave Hall and free tea and cake. Grass roots athletics at its best.”
“In other domestic competition, the cross country grand prix and handicap has been revived. It’s the best score in six of the nine qualifying races (four Surrey leagues, two south Thames champs, the county, the southern and the national). Handicapping will be based on Run Britain rankings so there’s no scope for corruption. More as it emerges.”
Please note that entries for the National Cross Country, to be held at Parliament Hill Fields on 22nd February, close this Tuesday 28th. See below for how to sign up.
If you’re available on that day and want to watch the event and contribute, the organisers have a call out for marshalls. Please contact Ben Noad at if you’re available to help.
Our treasurer David notes that there are several numbers still available for the monthly sweepstake – it costs £6 a month with the chance to win £250, the surplus going to held fund the club. Please contact David at if you’d like to join in.
Finally, there’s a parkrun social at Catford (Mountsfield Park) on Saturday 1st February. Do come to run, volunteer or just spectate and socialise!
SOUTHERN CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS
On an unexpectedly perfect day for cross country running, Kent men matched their result from last year with third place, but with a significant improvement in placings, narrowly missing out on silver as several athletes had excellent runs and we closed out our 6 within the top 40. Kent women also improved on last year, finishing in 6th place out of 36 completed teams. The juniors were also well represented, with 5 runners in the boy’s U15 race, and 67 Kent runners in total completed the course.
The men set off with high hopes of matching last year’s bronze, with John Gilbert down from Manchester and in fine form with a 30:11 10k just before New Year, and Owen Hind and Cameron Dockerill also looking strong. All of them pulled off outstanding runs, John coming in 9th – his 7th top 10 finish going back 15 years, but his first since he won the race in 2018. Cam improved from 65th last year to 18th yesterday, and Owen from 83rd to 21st. Nick Acfield (24th), Rob Sesemann (32nd) and Max Nicholls (37th) closed out our 6, 28 places better than in 2024. Our final tally of 141 points was a massive 91 points better than last year, an improvement of an incredible 15 places per runner!
John in full flow [pic credit Mark Hookway]
We briefly thought we’d won silver ahead of Hercules Wimbledon and behind an imperious Highgate, but a revision to the results saw us come 3rd, just 5 points behind Wimbledon. A terrific day for Kent men, which bodes well for the 12 stage relays in the spring. There were excellent runs down the field too, we had 12 runners in the top 100 and 37 finishers overall on the tough 15k course – although it actually measured 1k short, and one 64 year old Kent runner was heard to complain that he still had plenty of energy at the end because of it!
Owen and Cam on the home straight [pic credit Mark Hookway]
Kent women were without several of their top runners, but still put out an impressive 21 runners, their top 4 ranking 6th, a 3 place improvement on last year, Amy Clements was our leading runner again, her 12th place an improvement of one from last year; Katie Good (38th) and Aisling Ahern (52nd) were next for us and Alexa Parker (61st) closed out our team of 4, 21 women completed for Kent, a big increase on 2024, and a tribute to our xc captains in getting so many women enthused about such a hard race!
Kent women (and dog)
We also had a good turnout from our juniors – in the boys’ under 15 we had 5 runners, led home by George Searle in 69th place, with Luke Roderick, Lucas Strickland, Matteo Watson and Ewan Willis also finishing. Rika Gilmore ran in the U13 girls race, and Edward Pearce with the U13 boys. Tallulah Jones and Alice Hales also ran well in the U15 girls race
Congratulations to all runners who attempted the race yesterday, it’s always the most challenging of the year, and the results exceeded expectations.
PARLIAMENT HILL XC ENTRIES
The XC nationals are being held on 22 February at Parliament Hill, London!
After last year’s fiasco of last-minute cancellation, the premier XC race being close to public transport and actual paved car parking means everyone can once again do battle alongside the bravest and best in the country.
The committee has agreed to continue asking athletes for personal contributions to championship races. In the name of openness, entry is £16 (or 45% of your club membership fee) and anyone keen to run is asked to contribute £5 of that cost.
The sum-up link is open until 9pm on Tuesday 28th January.This is to allow any last-minute chats with coaches or captains at training that night to agree racing plans.
Please purchase your place right here.Don’t delay!
EVENT CALENDAR
February
1 – Social parkrun – Mountsfield Park, Catford
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
26 – KYAL – Ashford
27 – London Marathon
May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
June
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green
July
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
13 – SAL – Eltham
August
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon
September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS: RESPECTFUL COMMUNICATION AND ETIQUETTE IN THE CLUB!
Manners maketh man, woman and great athletes! As we kick off 2025, a reminder to start as we mean to go on and ensuring a friendly, supportive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome; with mutual respect and positive communication – whether on the track, during training sessions, on WhatsApp or in person. Let’s keep the positive andcompetitive vibes going and make sure our club stays a place which everyone enjoys being part of!
A reminder of the Kent AC code of conduct can be found here.
Welfare Team
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
Buying your pass in January gives you 11 months for the price of 12.
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 – 19/01/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 19 January 2025
We’re mid-Jan and already, we have some great results to shout out this weekend!
George Searle (U17) had a fantastic run at Dulwich parkrun on Saturday, clocking 17:25 and without a watch! Close by in Sutcliffe Park, Luke Roderick (U15) also had a superb race, crossing the line in 17:54.
Over at Dorney Lake Half Marathon, Gian Valentini claimed a second place finish in 76:28.
The Vets XC took place at Wimbledon Common, where Clare Elms topped the podium, scoring as first place woman and eighth overall in 27:43 over 8km.
Len Reilly crossed the line in eighteenth place in 29:21, followed soon after by Vic Buck in 29:26.
Shiny silverware
Che Compton fancied a more tropical climate this weekend and so travelled to compete in the Bermuda Triangle Challenge. A successful trip, he came first based on his cumulative time over the three races: the mile, 10km and marathon.
Kent AC overseas
It’s official: the dates for SAL, KYAL and Assembly League have all been announced, kicking off in Spring.
You’ll find a full list of dates below.
On Saturday, we head to Beckenham Place Park for the Southern XC which will also be doubling up as our Club XC Championships! The women are starting at 1:30pm and men at 2:35pm. Make sure to get there at least one hour beforehand to warm up and prepare.
Let’s hope those HF reps will do us justice on the line.
If you can’t race but are free to volunteer on the day, please contact Phil Marsden.
Keep your head warm and stay on brand with a big bobble hat, available to purchase online via the club store. Sarah Young can deliver to the track beforehand so make sure to order one before Tuesday!
Read on for a round-up of the latest Surrey League fixture last Saturday from our captains.
SURREY LEAGUE MATCH #3 REPORT
Last weekend on Saturday 11th January, Kent AC took on the picturesque but challenging cross-country course at West Horsley Place in Surrey. Despite the initial challenges in getting to the venue due to some unfortunate train delays, the 43 strong Kent AC team arrived in good spirits and was ready to take on the race.
The weather could not have been more different from our previous race here last November. Instead of the wet and muddy conditions, we were greeted by clear skies, sub-zero temperatures, and a frost-covered estate that looked straight out of a winter wonderland. It was a deceptively tricky course that required constant focus to maintain any sort of rhythm, with every step offering a new test of strength and concentration.
Men’s results:
Despite being without a few of our top runners, the Kent AC men’s team stepped up in a big way. In the results, Cameron Dockerill led the way for Kent AC, finishing in 19th place. Close behind, we had Nick Acfield in 37th and Isaac Parker in 39th, continuing to show their prowess over the old dirt road. Several athletes continue their return to competitive form, including Kurt Wilkinson in 40th and Noah Armitage-Hookes in 44th, while Max Nicholls and Matt Speed showed grit throughout the course, finishing strong in tough conditions, finishing in 45th and 64th respectively. Closing up the 10-to-score were Joe Hartley, Calum Fraser, and Barny Day with both Joe and Barny both making the scoring 10 for the first time this season, chapeau! The mens A and B teams finished in 4th and 3rd respectively.
Photo credit: Laurie Oliver
Women’s results:
For the Kent AC women’s team, it was another fantastic display of commitment and effort. Leading the charge for us was Katie Good, who ran a solid race to finish in 25th place. Claire Elms, another standout performer, was close behind in 46th place. Caitlin Bradley, Ellie Freeden, and Vic Cartwright closed out the 5 to score in 49th, 52nd, and 71st respectively – the team finished in 6th place out of 15 teams. Leading the women’s B team home was Vic Buck in 82nd place. Elinor Skinner, Sally Urquhart, Nicola Cartlidge, and Suze Spalding were the following Kent vests to cross the line, bringing the team home in 8th place in the B division – great work all!
Photo credit: Laurie Oliver
As with the men, we saw great depth across the field, with everyone contributing to the overall team effort, pushing each other, and setting the stage for an even stronger performance in the forthcoming weekends Southern Championships at Beckenham Place Park.
James Boustead XC Captain
ORDERRRR! PARLIAMENT HILL XC ENTRIES
The XC nationals are being held on 22 February at Parliament Hill, London!
After last year’s fiasco of last-minute cancellation, the premier XC race being close to public transport and actual paved car parking means everyone can once again do battle alongside the bravest and best in the country.
The committee has agreed to continue asking athletes for personal contributions to championship races. In the name of openness, entry is £16 (or 45% of your club membership fee) and anyone keen to run is asked to contribute £5 of that cost.
The sum-up link is open until 9pm on Tuesday 28th January.This is to allow any last-minute chats with coaches or captains at training that night to agree racing plans.
Please purchase your place right here.Don’t delay!
NEW RACE DATES ANNOUNCED
January
25 – Southern XC Champs – Beckenham Place Park
February
1 – Social parkrun – Mountsfield Park, Catford
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
3 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
26 – KYAL – Ashford
27 – London Marathon
May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
June
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green
July
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
13 – SAL – Eltham
August
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon
September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS: RESPECTFUL COMMUNICATION AND ETIQUETTE IN THE CLUB!
Manners maketh man, woman and great athletes! As we kick off 2025, a reminder to start as we mean to go on and ensuring a friendly, supportive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome; with mutual respect and positive communication – whether on the track, during training sessions, on WhatsApp or in person. Let’s keep the positive andcompetitive vibes going and make sure our club stays a place which everyone enjoys being part of!
A reminder of the Kent AC code of conduct can be found here.
Welfare Team
YOU’VE GOT TO BE IN IT TO WIN IT
Become part of the Kent AC monthly fundraising draw!
Each participant is allocated a number from the lottery for the year and whoever has the bonus ball on the first Saturday of the month wins £250.00.
The annual cost is £72 or it can be paid monthly by a standing order of £6.
A few numbers have become available this year.
If you are interested, email treasurer@kentac.org.uk.
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
Buying your pass in January gives you 11 months for the price of 12.
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 – 12/01/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 12 January 2025
Read the news and the headlines will be that it’s cold.
Read the Kent AC newsletter and you’ll find that it is in fact hot.
That’s because navy vests were lining up to race and set their PBs alight this weekend, whether at the Surrey League in West Horsley or over in Valencia. Well done to our own Alex Yet for finishing in 28:08, for what is technically his first 10km road race outside of triathlons. Meanwhile, Jonathan Collier finished in 29:27, Owen Hind in 29:57 and Jeremy Kempke in 33:52. Over at the Olympic Park, Robbie Smith also scored a 10km PB in 36:15.
This week’s newsletter has some important information about the upcoming National XC, on home turf at Parliament Hill, with a deadline for action by 28th January. If you need any spurring on, then read the report from yesterday’s XC below.
OUTRUNNING THE CROSS COUNTRY GHOSTS
Yesterday’s baltic Surrey League third fixture at West Horsley Place was riddled by train cancellations, random cars on the course and of course the classic cocktail of ice and mud mixed together.
52 Kent AC runners graced the course, putting those winter training sessions into good use. A full report will follow next week, but for now, it’s suffice to say that pictures speak more than a thousand words. Check out Laurie’s lens of the day here and you’ll see the scenes that unfolded as the men’s A team came 4th, men’s B team came third, women’s A team came 6th, women’s B team came 8th.
ORDERRRR! PARLIAMENT HILL XC ENTRIES
Well done everyone who raced at West Horsley Place. For anyone who thought ‘gosh, 7.8km felt a bit short for a race’ or ‘what I really want is a much bigger hill to run up in the name of an enviable hobby’? Perhaps you are too familiar with competitors in the south London area. Well good news, the XC nationals are being held on 22 February at Parliament Hill, London!
After last year’s fiasco of last-minute cancellation, the premier XC race being close to public transport and actual paved car parking means everyone can once again do battle alongside the bravest and best in the country.
The committee has agreed to continue asking athletes for personal contributions to championship races. In the name of openness, entry is £16 (or 45% of your club membership fee) and anyone keen to run is asked to contribute £5 of that cost.
The sum-up link is open until 9pm on Tuesday 28th January.This is to allow any last-minute chats with coaches or captains at training that night to agree racing plans.
Please purchase your place right here.Don’t delay!
THREE CHEERS FOR VOLUNTEERS
We have not one but two exciting opportunities upcoming to fill your feel-good quota and get some volunteering in. It’ll make dry January fizz by in a flash, I promise.
First up, we have the the Southern Cross Country Championships take place at Beckenham Place Park on 25 January. We need more marshals for this race. If you can spare an hour or two to volunteer and help the club put on a great race, please contact Phil Marsden and the comms team directly here.
Secondly, the club will be organising a social parkrun at Catford on Saturday 1st February. If you would like to volunteer and be the real star of the show, adored and applauded by all, then please drop a line to catford@parkrun.com to offer your services.
A LITTLE COMPETITION…
Winner is the offer closest to the total number of years of Kent AC membership in the above image. Answers on a postcard please.
Len will share the magic number in next week’s newsletter.
YOU’VE GOT TO BE IN IT TO WIN IT
The latest winner of this year’s Club Draw was Dennis Fairbrass, as No. 4 was the bonus ball last Saturday.
This is a monthly fundraising draw.
Each participant is allocated a number from the lottery for the year and whoever has the bonus ball on the first Saturday of the month wins £250.00.
The annual cost is £72 or it can be paid monthly by a standing order of £6.
A few numbers have become available this year, if you are interested, email treasurer@kentac.org.uk
NEW YEAR, SAME RACE CALENDAR
January
25 – Southern XC Champs – Beckenham Place Park
February
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
Buying your pass in January gives you 11 months for the price of 12.
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 – 05/01/25<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 5 January 2025
New year, new running pledges; and for many of us, the four (ish)-month training block, ending with a date with a spring marathon, begins tomorrow. The coming weeks bring a few muddy cross-country runs to test endurance, and if careering around freezing suburban parkland doesn’t appeal, there’s a need for big-hearted volunteers to help out at the race in Beckenham on 25 January.
Looking back on the past week, as 2024 gave way to 2025, a merry band of star athletes decided to earn their New Year’s Eve drinks by racing in Battersea.
Then there was the not insignificant matter of the Kent County Cross Country Championships at Brands Hatch (women’s team pictured below). More pictures to come.
For those of you making resolutions to get down to the track more in 2025, one incentive may be that annual track passes are available at a discount until the end of January: 12 months for the price of 11.
RESULTS, RESULTS
Before we head back to a bleak corner of a Kentish Field to salute the boy and girl racers at Brands Hatch, let’s revisit that New Year’s Eve race in Battersea:
It was the Mizuno Podium 5k & 1mile race, and plenty of Kent AC athletes turned up to see out the old year in style:
Pictures telling a thousand words, above, but if it’s words you want, here’s how they all did:
In the elite men’s race, Cam Dockerill ran 14:53 and Kurt Wilkinson ran 15:06.
The elite women’s race saw Katie Good run 18:20.
Noah AH 15:06
Joe English 15:32
Joe Hartley 15:47
Ross Braden 15:56
Rob Laing 15:59
Richard Giles 16:54
Clare Elms 18:50
Lovely picture of Rob and Joe recovering, above.
Racing from Brands Hatch Now to that cross country: it was a cold, raw, January day, so we’re sending thanks to everyone who waited around to support each other, and super grateful to Coach Pete, who is unfailing in his support for all the women. Also, thanks to President Jules for his help in organising runners in this always challenging race and Helen R and Russell H, who helped marshal in the car park. The U15 boys, running 4,400m, had a great day:
Flying! Our lads were led in by George Searle, in seventh place, followed by Luke Roderick, Lucas Stickland and Ewan Willis. Fabulous running! In the Under 13s, running 3050m, Ed Pearce came in 38th.
Representing our U15 girls, running 4,400m, was the redoubtable Alice Hales, who raced in in 23rd place.
In the U20 category, (6,100m) Guy set off at a cracking pace and finished strong, coming in 14th. The senior men, running a 12k course, were led in by Nick Acfield in 41:4, followed by Lyndon Marfell in 43:30 and Luke Rowland in 46:08
It was the women’s day, as Lyndon so generously reports here:
‘Kent AC athletes delivered impressive performances at the Kent County Cross Country Championships held at the Brands Hatch racing circuit. The event, known for its challenging course and competitive field, saw Kent AC athletes rise to the occasion. The Senior Women’s team (whose race was 8k) had a standout performance, securing silver medals in both the 3-person and 6-person team competitions. Leading the team was the impressive Katie Good, who finished 7th, followed closely by Clare Elms in 9th and Claire Oxlade in 13th. The 6-person team also saw strong contributions from Caitlin Bradley, Elyse Jenkins, and Vic Cartwright, whose efforts were crucial in securing the silver medal and showing great depth in the women’s ranks.
Overall, Kent AC’s athletes had another strong Cross Country day out and the club looks forward to building on this success in next weekend’s Surrey League back at West Horsley Place.’
BECKENHAM CALLING
The Southern Cross Country Championships take place at Beckenham Place Park on 25 January.
We need more marshalls for this race. If you can spare an hour or two to volunteer and help the club put on a great race, please contact Phil Marsden and the comms team directly here.
PASTURES NEW
Two of our esteemed members are moving away, and they’ll be sorely missed.
Zuzana Nemeckova is well known as the club’s Ultra Queen. Anyone who follows her on Instagram will know she doesn’t do things by halves (a half is a bit short for her) and she’s happiest racing up hill, down dale and round mountains. Unsurprising, then, that she finds south-east London a little limiting and has upped sticks to the Lake District. We wish her all the best in her new life away from the Smoke and hope she’ll keep representing for Kent AC.
Barny Day writes:
Jonathan ‘Joffa’ Ratcliffe has been a running legend in south London for many years. Unfortunately he has had to leave south London and return up North to be closer to family in Burnley. As a Kent AC second claim member there was never a weekend / week night when you would not see Joffa racing somewhere across south London. Joffa has completed more sub 3 hour marathons than anyone we know. We really want to wish him luck up Norf and look forward to seeing him every London marathon and when ever we get the chance. He will be very much missed by the London running community. Keep running, Joffa
RESOLVE TO RACE
January
11 – Surrey League XC – West Horsley
25 – Southern XC Champs – Beckenham Place Park
February
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
Buying your pass in January gives you 11 months for the price of 12.
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 – 29/12/24<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 29 December 2024
They call this Betwixtmas, apparently, that time when diets consist mostly of turkey sandwiches and mince pies, and long runs are replaced by lie-ins due to Christmas colds.
There hasn’t been much serious running this week, but lots of you got out to Christmas Day parkruns, at least 30 from Kent at Hilly Fields. A selection of pics below:
Our distant representative John Gilbert ran the Ribble Valley 10k today against a high quality field, and came home in an excellent 30:06.
For those of you making resolutions to get down to the track more in 2025, one incentive may be that annual track passes are heavily discounted at the moment – 12 months for the price of 10 until the end of December and 12 for the price of 11 to the end of January.
Please note that there is are no track sessions for Kent on New Year’s Eve, although the track will be open to pay at the office.
Have a Happy New Year, and may 2025 bring you the PBs you wish for!
HUBBLE, BUBBLE, BUY YOUR BOBBLE
When you’re waiting around on the cross country field, then layering up after the race, your best friend is your Kent AC bobble hat. If you are still lacking this style essential, you can go to the Kent AC online shop to order and pay. Your ears will thank you for it. How will you get your hands on one? Contact Sarah Young, either on any of the WhatsApp groups, or via the website.
2025, WE’RE COMING FOR YOU
January
4 – Kent County XC Championships – Brands Hatch
11 – Surrey League XC – West Horsley
25 – Southern XC Champs – Beckenham Place Park
February
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
If you renew your annual pass before 31.12.24 you will receive 10 months for the price of 12.
Buying your pass in January gives you 11 months for the price of 12.
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 – 22/12/24<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 22 December 2024
The festive period is well and truly upon us but before we sign off to indulge, let’s recap on this week.
Although, first we need to give a quick mention to Emily Murray, who competed in the Be Fit Today Track Academy Open Meet at Lee Valley on 8th December. Emily achieved a PB of 9.06m in the Triple Jump, placing her 3rd V45 in the UK 2024 rankings.
The 5 Miler at Battersea Park on Friday night was a speedy one! The results are in…
Jonathan Collier – 23:53
Nick Acfield – 25:19
Ben Clarke – 26:11
Barny Day – 26:32
Jake Herrera – 26:49
Fergus Johnson – 27:35
Rory Knight – 28:26
Andy Colley – 29:36
Will Pitt – 29:54
Tim Sharp – 30:08
Joe Wilkes – 30:26
Rich Giles – 30:46
Clare Elms – 30:47
Well done all!
Spot Joe if you can
We had a troop of mighty blue vests brave the weather and the challenging course at the South of Thames XC in Tonbridge on Saturday afternoon.
Full results can be found here.
Final team race of the year
Welcome back Dan
Our women’s squad
You can put the spikes aside. It all begins again on the 4th January at Brands Hatch for the Kent County XC Championships. KCAA have requested clubs to help out with marshalling. If you can help, please fill in the form on their website. If you’re running, you can still potentially help before or after your respective race. http://kcaa.org.uk/
The Southern XC Championships will be held at Beckenham Place Park on 25th January.
Entries must be submitted by 27th December so if you are keen to run, please help the captains out by making sure you have signed up and purchased your entry.
Sign up here.
Pay your entry fee here.
It has been quite a magical year for Clare Elms, who has inspired many of us with her records. Check out this Athletics Weekly article, where Clare reflects on her 2024 races.
Lastly, if you’re staying local for Christmas day this year, head to Hilly Fields parkrun. Wear your Kent AC vest and bring a santa hat if you have one!
For those of you heading out of London for festivities, there may be a parkrun taking place nearby. Take a look here.
FESTIVITIES ON TRACK
If you’re planning to fit in some more laps of the track before the year is out, make a note of the following dates! Check public opening hours directly.
Tuesday 24 December: No booking Thursday 26 December: No booking Sunday 29 December: As usual Tuesday 31 December: No booking Thursday 2 January 2025: As usual
2025 track passes are available to purchase here.
If purchased before 31st December, you will get 2 months free (£130/year).
If purchased in January, it will be 12 months for the price of 11 (£143/year).
After that, it will be £13 per month.
Please give some thought to volunteering for gate duty. It’s essential that people buy their passes and show them to a representative at the gate.
ABSOLUTE LEGENDS
In case you missed it, the President Awards have been announced for exceptional services to Kent AC.
The awards were given for each year, between 2021-2024.
2021
John Barron
2022
Dan Ansell
2023
Sarah Crichton
2024
David Devlin
The following members were also recognised for their achievements in 2024.
Best overall female athlete
Clare Elms
Best overall male athlete
Joe Appiah
Best road athlete
Nick Torry
Best track athlete
Alexa Parker
LUCKY DIP
For all those who are wondering who the lucky winners to be drawn out of the hat for a place in the 2025 TCS London Marathon, the agony is over.
The two Kent AC runners whose agony is about to start with 16 weeks of winter training are JohnGilchrist and Rob Harvey.
Well done, both!
HUBBLE, BUBBLE, BUY YOUR BOBBLE
When you’re waiting around on the cross country field, then layering up after the race, your best friend is your Kent AC bobble hat. If you are still lacking this style essential, you can go to the Kent AC online shop to order and pay. Your ears will thank you for it. How will you get your hands on one? Contact Sarah Young, either on any of the WhatsApp groups, or via the website.
2025, WE’RE COMING FOR YOU
January
4 – Kent County XC Championships – Brands Hatch
11 – Surrey League XC – tbc
25 – Southern XC Champs – Beckenham Place Park
February
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
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
NOTE that seasonal adjustments mean that track will be closed 19, 24, 26, 31 December (see Seasonal Track, above)
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
If you renew your annual pass before 31.12.24 you will receive 10 months for the price of 12.
Buying your pass in January gives you 11months for the price of 12.
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 – 15/12/24<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 15 December 2024
Storm Darragh ate last week’s newsletter, so apologies if you were waiting to be blown away by the achievements of the cross country teams. Steel yourself: the race was called off owing to high winds and hard rain. In Uganda the weather was hot, and that was more of an issue for Ralph Weir, who ran the first ever Gulu marathon. Managing a sub-sub-four-hour time in the punishing conditions there was a huge achievement. Stevenage Half Marathon went ahead (it was one of the few races not to be cancelled in the run-up to the tempest). So without further ado, let’s recap … Alex Robbins took to the tornado conditions like a duck to water and ran the half in 90mins. Peter Range ‘snuck in under 1:34’. Big congratulations to any Stevenage runners who took on the weather and raced.
Races that took place today (15 December) included the excellent Lesnes Abbey 5 mile trail race and the Telford 10k. Also in this weeks news, we have important festive track opening times (don’t forget the Paarlauf on Tuesday 17 December), a gentle reminder to renew your annual track pass and step up to the gate once in a while. We’re also in need of Marshalls for the cross country on 4 January. The event of this weekend was, of course Saturday night’s Kent AC merry annual Christmas bash. We raise our Santa hats to Ellie Freeden, who organised the whole shebang. Evidently this year’s main attraction was karaoke, with Amy Clements revealing a talent for crooning that’s nearly as good as her running. People were too busy enjoying themselves to take loads of pictures, but just feast your eyes on the gorgeously appointed runners out of Lycra below:
Party shots (above) L to R (below) Jo, Anna, Ellie and Sophia scrub up well...
THERE WAS SOME RUNNING
(l to r) James Bowler, Ronnie Haydon, Dame Dibaba, Nicky Hayes, Rob Harvey
Dame won!
Dame enjoying his trophy
A few eagle-eyed members spotted there was a trail race going on this morning, starting at the ruins of Lesnes Abbey and negotiating five miles’ worth of hills and spills through Oxleas Woods. It was a gnarly and challenging course and a well-marshalled and organised small race. Thanks to Plumstead Runners. First man across the tape: our Dame. Apologies to Ian Ellwood, who also ran, but this camera person’s phone died before we could get him in a picture. No official results yet.
Kent AC runners also made their way to Telford for a 10k challenge (whether these same runners also attended the party the night before isn’t clear, but respect if they did). Here are the 10k results
Owen Hind, 12th in 29.22
Jonathan Collier, 21st in 29:35
Cam Dockerill, 30:39
Kurt Wilkinson 31:25
Rob Seseman 31:33
Jake Simmonds 31:35
Harry Tivnen, 32:11
Luke Rowland, 34:43
ABSOLUTE LEGENDS
At the Kent AC Christmas party, Victoria Buck announced the President Awards – for exceptional services to Kent AC
As there hasn’t been an awards evening for a number of years, the awards were given for the years 2021-2024. They were:
2021 John Barron
2022 Dan Ansell
2023 Sarah Crichton
2024 David Devlin
In their capacity as co-presidents, Len and Victoria also determined that the following individuals should be recognised for their achievements in 2024:
Best overall female athlete Clare Elms
Best overall male athlete Joe Appiah
Best road athlete Nick Torry
Best track athlete Alexa Parker
SEASONAL TRACK NEWS
The question on everyone’s lips: Will we be able to train on the track on Christmas Day? Of course not, that would be ridiculous, there are parkruns to consider. However it’s worth noting the Christmas holiday track opening dates: Tuesday December 17: track open as usual, and Coach Adrian organises a Paarlauf – a not-to-be missed opportunity for mixed-ability teams chosen by Adrian to run 4miles per team. Thursday 19 December: track closed Sunday 22 December: track open Tuesday 24 December: track closed Thursday 26 December: track closed Sunday 29 December: track open Tuesday 31 December: track open Thursday 2 January 2025: track open for all those NY resolutions to come to fruition
2025 Track passes will be available from Monday 16 December. If purchased before 31December you will get 2 months free (£130/year). If purchased in January, it will be 12 months for the price of 11 (£143/year). After that it will be the £13 per month.
Please give some thought to volunteering for gate duty. It’s essential that people buy their passes and show them to a representative at the gate.
MARSHAL YOUR FORCES
KCAA have requested clubs to help out with marshalling at the Kent County XC Champs at Brands Hatch on Saturday 4th January. If you can help, please fill in the form on their website. If you’re running, you can still potentially help before or after your respective race. http://kcaa.org.uk/
YEE, VERILY
A message from a south-east London borough that’s gone triathlon mad:
Come on Lewisham! Let’s vote for Alex Yee as BBC Sports Personality of the Year
Alex is not just a very talented athlete, he is humble, generous and committed to sport in Lewisham. He is a real inspiration to young people in Lewisham and everyone within the sporting community.
He reminds us that dreams do come true!
Alex is on the shortlist of six for the 2024 BBC Sports Personality of the Year. This is being broadcast on BBC1 at 7-9pm next Tuesday 17 December and voting will take place live during the show via phone or BBC website.
So COME ON LEWISHAM!
Let’s do it for Lewisham sports and tune in to BBC1 at 7pm next Tuesday to VOTE FOR ALEX!
“Lewisham to the World!”
HUBBLE, BUBBLE, BUY YOUR BOBBLE
When you’re waiting around on the cross country field, then layering up after the race, your best friend is your Kent AC bobble hat. If you are still lacking this style essential, you can go to the Kent AC online shop to order and pay. Your ears will thank you for it. How will you get your hands on one? Contact Sarah Young, either on any of the WhatsApp groups, or via the website
LUCKY DIP
For all those who are wondering who the lucky winners to be drawn out of the hat for a place in the 2025 TCS London Marathon, the agony is over. The two Kent AC runners whose agony is about to start with 16 weeks of winter training are: John Gilchrist and Rob Harvey Well done, both!
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
December
21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Somerhill School, Tonbridge
2025
January
4 – Kent County XC Championships – Brands Hatch
11 – Surrey League XC – tbc
25 – Southern XC Champs – Beckenham Place Park
February
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
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
NOTE that seasonal adjustments mean that track will be closed 19, 24, 26, 31 December (see Seasonal Track, above)
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
If you renew your annual pass before 31.12.24 you will receive 10 months for the price of 12.
Buying your pass in January gives you 11months for the price of 12.
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 – 01/12/24<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 1 December 2024
A strong week full of races international and national across the age categories. Kent AC’s white horse basked in the sunny streets of Valencia, muddy trails in Guildford, the busy pathways of Victoria Park and darted across Kent by experienced masters.
First up, is a big push to purchase your tickets for this year’s Christmas Party bash. It’s always fun and this is your opportunity to talk about training plans, upcoming races and new shoes over drinks and Christmas nibbles. See below for more information.
✨🎄🪩 Saturday 14th December
St Dunstan’s Jubilee Ground, Catford
7:30pm
£20 including buffet and arrival drink https://kentac.sumupstore.com
Spread the word!
FELIZ NAVIDAD
Kent AC Christmas party tickets are on sale🎄✨
It’s going to a dazzling affair and we hope to see many of you there to celebrate 2024!
£20 per person including an arrival drink, a buffet and a dancefloor🥂
Purchase your tickets here – get them before they’re gone!
SURREY LEAGUE CROSS
We had 8 runners yesterday for match 2 in the Surrey League XC with 3 Surrey League 1st timers.
First up were the under 13s. Edward Pearce excellent time 12.29 24th out of 50 runners. Daria Gilmore under 14 minutes with a position 38th also out of 50 runners. Both preformed really well for their first times.
The under 15 boys had a full team and were a credible 8th out of 16 teams. First home for Kent was George Searle. He was the 14th under 15B in a time of 15:23 putting him up in the top 25%. In second and third was the battle between Luke Roderick and Lucas Stickland with Luke narrowly pipping Lucas. They were 30th and 32nd out of 59 runners in times of 16:26 and 16:29. Mateo Mathers picked up some valuable points in a time of 18:26.
The last race of the day was the U15 G with Tallulah Jones again comfortably in the top half with a position of 19th in a time of 18:11. Close behind with her first SL run of the year was Alice Hales. She was 29th out of 54 runners in a time of 19:00 minutes. Thats all the junior mud this year until a busy January. Next up the Christmas Party….
MUDDY MASTERS
The County Vets XC in Dartford is always a good Kent AC club day out, with a fab turn out and super individual runs.
M50: First race was the Men V50s. Despite having a somewhat depleted team we won team gold, Che Compton (individual bronze), Steve McGrory, Jules Gevers and Paul McCrone. This shows the club’s strength in depth, as our winning team didn’t include any personnel from last years winning team. We won by a 6 points, which, as we’ll come too, was a massive margin compared to other races. M60: The M60s won team silver, missing gold by 3 points and avoiding bronze on countback. Kent AC’s team was tightly packed, and was a classic rematch of the club 5000m earlier in the year, with Luke Armitage (8th), Roger Beardsworth (10th) and Len Reilly (12th). In the same race, Julian Spencer-Wood had a splendid run, winning silver in the MV70 category.
W35/W45/W55/W65: The women enjoyed a victorious afternoon at the Kent Vets Cross Championships at Dartford on Saturday, winning individual and team medals in two categories. Vic Buck, Lin Skinner and Vicky Boyle ran off with v35 team gold; a super impressive achievement bearing in mind that all three were down ageing for the event. Vic Buck outran most of the v35 field to bring home individual bronze. The v35 team was completed by Heather Castle. Congratulations also to our outstanding sixty year old, Clare Elms, who brought home individual V55 gold, and celebrated team bronze with Sarah Young and Nicky Hayes. Ronnie Haydon and Kate Williams weren’t far behind, in a superb showing by our v55s overall. There is no stopping Clare – she is going on to compete in the BMAF 5k on Sunday. Finally, Zoe Gaffen and Annabelle Hadlow were role models to us all in their enthusiastic participation as v65s. Well done everyone!
M40: The final race of the day was the Men V40s. Kent AC have 12 consecutive wins. Alas, that run came to end in a very close competition. We packed 6 runners into the top 18 in front of Cambridge Harriers 4th scorer in 20th place. But that wasn’t quite good enough on the day. Hats off to Cambridge Harriers for putting out a very strong team and pipped us by one point.
It was a great race for the spectators, with lots of overtaking over the 4.5 laps. Our silver medalling team was Rob Laing (6th), Dave Morgan (7th), Sam Evans (10th) and Neil Phillips (12th).
For the stattos: Apart from 3 silvers, we have won team M40 gold in every competition since 2005.
Then it was off to the Malt Shovel for the post-race debrief, with Kent AC runners carrying more silverware than bargain hunt.
VAMOS VALENCIA
Let’s go Valencia. Some of our Kent lot took to the fast streets of Valencia for some incredible marathon racing. After years now of putting on some fast road running, Valencia is the go to place for a quick winter PB.
First up, we have Ben Clarke. After weeks of travelling across the Northern Mediterranean, he still managed to fit in some consistent training to put him in pole position for a PB. And PB he did, knocking off 2 minutes to inch himself closer to that sub 2:20 barrier at 2:21:44. I think he sums up most marathon experiences well when he says, “It was all so good til it was hard”.
Next across the line and back from his stint in Kenya was Harry Tivnen who smashed through the 2:30 barrier to knock off 6 minutes from his previous PB in 2:28:54. It seems that altitude training (and years of dedication, consistency and determination) pays off.
Following closely behind and managing to fit in excellent training around pesky injuries was budding coach Chris Busaileh. Like the others, Chris smashed through his PB to break that magic barrier in 2:29:54. Another succinct line from this marathoner, “Marathons are a long way and quite hard”. I’m beginning to see a trend here…
Over to JT who also finished strongly in 2:34:22. Alas no PB but still an excellent run nevertheless. Adam Paterson finished closely behind in 2:34:38 missing out by an agonising 7 seconds to add to the PBs best for our Kent group today. Excellent run to both and go enjoy some well-earned Spanish beers.
AÚN MÁS CORRER
We head over to Lees Valley where even more PBs came in the 60m hurdles: Tess Hepple (9.09), Claudia Rigby (10.56) and Mack Atanda (11.62)
In Victoria Park we had some runners compete too: Teresa Murphy 1st V45 in 88:02, Alex Morales 89:41, Ivona Gongolova 1st V40 in 1:43:23 and Khawaja Shahabuddin 1:56:35.
In the British Masters 5K we had Tim Sharp run 17:52, Julian Spencer Wood 23:25, Clare Elms come through 1st in the V60 in 18:57 and Karen Samuel race 25:49. Some of those runners raced twice this week!
Also notably, over in Hilly Fields Parkrun we had a mini Kent takeover with 9 of the top 10 runners deriving from Kent AC. They then went on to run 10 hills and a mile tempo as part of Ken and Chris’s winter training plan. Hopefully that hill training will pay dividends in the cross countries and races to come.
HUBBLE, BUBBLE, BUY YOUR BOBBLE
When you’re waiting around on the cross country field, then layering up after the race, your best friend is your Kent AC bobble hat. If you are still lacking this style essential, you can go to the Kent AC online shop to order and pay. Your ears will thank you for it.
LONDON MARATHON CLUB BALLOT
If you failed to get a London Marathon place, you have a second chance.
The club will have two places and we’ll run a ballot as in previous years. There is one extra criterion, to encourage volunteering at the club – you have to have helped the club out in some way this year.
The criteria are:
1. Be a fully paid up club member. 2. Been rejected in the London Marathon 2025 ballot (need to provide evidence) 3. Have run for the club in 2024 (state which race) 4. Have volunteered for the club in some way in 2024.
This can include manning the gate at the track, marshalling or otherwise helping at an open meet or a race, being a coach or holding a committee post. You still have a chance to do so before the draw.
The draw will take place later this year at the Christmas Party on 14 December.
If you wish to enter the draw, send an email to Phil at , with evidence of your LM rejection, what races you have run, and what volunteering you’ve done.
Deadline: 13th December
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
December
7 – SEAA Masters XC Championships – Horspath, Oxford (tbc)
14 – Christmas Party – St Dunstan’s Jubilee Ground, Catford
21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Somerhill School, Tonbridge
2025
January
4 – Kent County XC Championships – Brands Hatch
11 – Surrey League XC – tbc
25 – Southern XC Champs – Beckenham Place Park
February
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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 – 24/11/24<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 24 November 2024
A momentous week for Kent AC saw the renaming of Ladywell Arena after the club’s most successful athlete, 4 time Olympic medal winner and World Triathlon Champion Alex Yee. A ceremony involving the Lewisham Mayor, local MP, members of the club and schoolchildren from Alex’s old school. Full report below from club President Len Reilly.
Yesterday two dozen Kent runners went to Guildford to contest the South of the Thames Junior race, in which Kent has a proud history, and which is one of few (along with the corresponding Senior race) to have men and women running together. Despite the challenging conditions of wind and mud, Kent men won the 8-man competition and were second in the 4-man behind Belgrave, who had the first 3 runners home, while we had the next 3. The women came 2nd in the 4 to score – full report below from James Boustead.
Many other races were cancelled due to the weather conditions, including the San Sebastian Marathon, to which Alex Morales had travelled in vain, but Andrea Barber managed a 97 minute half marathon at Battersea in the wind.
Don’t forget the AGM is this Tuesday, at 2030 in the Blythe Hill Tavern, after track. Food will be provided!
And there are still tickets available for the Christmas Party, see below.
Also, in the week that the Good For Age notifications came out, if you didn’t get a London Marathon place, you have another chance in the club ballot. Two places available, and so far not that many names on the list, so your chance is much higher than in the main LM ballot. The draw will be at the Christmas Party, so another reason to go.
LADYWELL STADIUM NAMED IN HONOUR OF ALEX YEE
“This lovely tribute from my local community is the first time I’ve felt this emotional since Paris and realised the significance of what I’ve achieved,” was Alex’s typically modest and touching response at the ceremony renaming Ladywell Arena in his honour held on Friday morning.
Lewisham’s great and good – Mayor Brenda Dacres, Vicky Foxcroft MP and Cllr Edison Huynh, cabinet member for communities and culture, were there along with children from Stillness School and their head Annie Grimes, plus Kent AC members, plenty of council officers and Better/GLL staff, and the media. The entrance and area outside reception had been tastefully decorated with gold balloons and bunting.
It was Alex’s day and he spoke warmly about his roots and early years. “I’m very honoured and it was brilliant to have so many people here, my family, coaches and teacher, who have helped me so much with my career. I hope that many more young people in Lewisham continue to enjoy and use this arena to follow their dreams and become the very best versions of themselves.”
It’s another worthy and permanent local recognition – two place name murals have already been tweaked in his honour. Alex unveiled a tasteful brass plaque with the new name and just to be sure there’s a huge new sign in a font big enough to be read from the train.
Ken Pike, Spenser Lane and Jon Horsman from Crystal Palace Tri Club spoke of Alex’s talent, determination and development and Cllr Dacres and Vicky Foxcroft spoke more widely of what the achievement means locally and to generations to come. In Vicky Foxcroft’s words “grassroots organisations and venues – such as this very arena – have a vital role to play in ensuring every child gets those choices and chances, no matter what their background”. Len did a brief intro to the club.
In case any member is unaware (surely impossible) Alex is current Olympic and world triathlon champion (pause and say that back to yourself) and, with four medals, Olympic triathlon’s most successful athlete; he’s also widely recognized as triathlon’s strongest runner. He has an outstanding (pure) athletics cv: British 10,000m champion in 2018; senior GB/NI vest at European championships; individual 3rd in National Cross country, 3rd fastest British 5k and 3rd fastest parkrun worldwide (if one is allowed to say that). He also won our 5000m champs in 2014. He joined Kent AC as a teenager and was coached by Spenser Lane and Ken Pike and had a fleeting presence in the B group too. And he still occasionally turns out in a navy blue vest.
His Lewisham roots are impeccable: he was born in Lewisham Hospital, grew up in Brockley and attended Stillness primary school
If that wasn’t enough later in the day he was awarded Team GB’s moment of the games award, having also won on Wednesday the Sports Journalists’ Association’s sportsman of the year award.
This makes Ladywell the third London track to have a personal dedication – Linford Christie/West London and David Weir/Sutton being the others. It strengthens our sports and our bond with the local authority is a major landmark in the track’s history (first opened in 1937, despite what the new plaque says) but most importantly is a tremendous honour to a world-famous athlete who is still very much one of us.
As cross-country races go, the weekends South of Thames Junior Race at West Horsley Place wasn’t merely a battle against other runners — it was an elemental war against the wrath of Storm Bert. There was an unspoken camaraderie in the air — this wasn’t just a race; it was survival. The five-mile course had been laid out with optimistic tape that flapped like desperate flags of surrender. The whistle blew — or rather, a shout muffled by the gale — and we were off, slipping and sliding, each runner immediately swallowed by the chaos of the storm.
Owen Hind was our first man across the line – a performance in the Tempest. Just behind him, the mud-loving Cam Dockerill in 5th. Next in was Felix Delgado, who nailed a 6th place finish in his last Kent AC XC race of the season, great to finish with a true taste of British cross country. Mathew Speed, another who knows exactly how to handle adversity, finished closely behind in 10th, with Lyndon Marfell coming home in 12th, after keeping the rest of race honest with his blistering start. Isaac Parker was next through the mud, finishing 15th overall. Calum Fraser came in at 16th overall – continuing his consistently strong 24/25 performances with a no-nonsense performance that every team needs. Finally, rounding out the mens top 8 was Alex Harris, finishing 22nd overall, his great fortitude enough to ensure the mens team took home the Brent shield (top 8 to score) by a near 3 points. The men also finished a commendable 2nd and 3rd in the 4 to score.
Owen and Cam going strong
On the women’s side, it was no less intense. Aisling Ahern was our first finisher, crossing the line as the 4th place woman (57th overall) – strong in the storm and setting the tone for the rest of the team. The 9th woman (79th overall) to cross the line was Victoria Cartwright – she wasn’t going to let the storm dictate the race, she was the storm – showing true determination amongst the downpour. The unyielding spirit of Amy White followed closely as the 12th woman (90th overall) to finish, and it was Elyse Jenkins, portraying calm in the chaos to close the women’s scoring 4 as the 18th woman (111th overall) to finish and securing 2nd place in the women’s team competition!
Storm Bert may have tested us to our limits, but the Kent AC army held strong. We shook hands, caked in mud and grinning like fools. This was cross country at its purest.
It’s going to a dazzling affair and we hope to see many of you there to celebrate 2024!
£20 per person including an arrival drink, a buffet and a dancefloor🥂
Purchase your tickets here – get them before they’re gone!
AGM
This is notice of our Annual General Meeting, which will be held on Tuesday 26th November at 20:30, upstairs at the Blythe Hill Tavern, 319 Stanstead Rd, SE23 1JB.
Please come along after the track.
Food will be provided.
The AGM is a yearly gathering of the club members, primarily to hear reports from committee members, about the club’s activities and finances; to appoint the committee and vote on any contested positions; to ask questions to the committee, and express your ideas and concerns.
The committee is made up of volunteers and each year every post is up for election.
This year we have the following vacancies:
President: Our co-presidents Victoria Buck and Len Reilly stand down after their three year stint: a three year fixed appointment ensuring good governance, good decision making and that all the club’s members and activities get a fair allocation of resources; chairing committee
Membership co-secretary: a job-share role to assist the current incumbent in processing applications and maintaining the membership database
Track manager: ensuring smooth running of track pass system
Health & safety: ensuring risk assessments both ongoing and for events are appropriate as well as current and risks mitigated
We’re truly grateful to all for their hard work over this and previous years.
Big thanks, too, to those putting their name forward for roles this year.
A full list of committee, juniors – sub committee and non – committee posts can be found on our website.
Thanks Vic and Len
HUBBLE, BUBBLE, BUY YOUR BOBBLE
When you’re waiting around on the cross country field, then layering up after the race, your best friend is your Kent AC bobble hat. If you are still lacking this style essential, you can go to the Kent AC online shop to order and pay. Your ears will thank you for it.
LONDON MARATHON CLUB BALLOT
If you failed to get a London Marathon place, you have a second chance.
The club will have two places and we’ll run a ballot as in previous years. There is one extra criterion, to encourage volunteering at the club – you have to have helped the club out in some way this year.
The criteria are:
1. Be a fully paid up club member. 2. Been rejected in the London Marathon 2025 ballot (need to provide evidence) 3. Have run for the club in 2024 (state which race) 4. Have volunteered for the club in some way in 2024.
This can include manning the gate at the track, marshalling or otherwise helping at an open meet or a race, being a coach or holding a committee post. You still have a chance to do so before the draw.
The draw will take place later this year at the Christmas Party on 14 December.
If you wish to enter the draw, send an email to Phil at , with evidence of your LM rejection, what races you have run, and what volunteering you’ve done.
Deadline: 13th December
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
November
23 – South of Thames Junior XC – West Horsley Place, Guildford
26 – AGM – Blythe Hill Tavern
30 – Kent Vets XC Championships – Central Park, Dartford
December
7 – SEAA Masters XC Championships – Horspath, Oxford (tbc)
14 – Christmas Party – St Dunstan’s Jubilee Ground, Catford
21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Somerhill School, Tonbridge
2025
January
4 – Kent County XC Championships – Brands Hatch
11 – Surrey League XC – tbc
25 – Southern XC Champs – Beckenham Place Park
February
8 – Surrey League XC – Epsom
22 – National XC – Parliament Hill
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
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 £5 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
Ladywell 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.
