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.
It’s almost summer, so it’s track and field season! And trail running season! And we have news of both this weekend.
Yesterday was the first Southern Athletics League fixture of the year, conveniently hosted by Cambridge Harriers at Sutcliffe Park. While we had some absences in key events due to exam schedules, we still managed to put out a large team of enthusiastic athletes, many trying new events for the first time. Partial report below, as we only have provisional results at the moment.
There were runners at two notable half marathons – Chislehurst trail half and Hackney half – report below – and elsewhere. And those running Beckenham Place Park parkrun yesterday had a nice surprise – Dame Kelly Holmes turned up and was not only first female finisher (aged 56) but hung around afterwards for selfies with other runners:
On Wednesday evening this week we have the Beckenham Relays, a fun event that’s always well attended and competed for in Beckenham Place Park. Entries have closed and teams have been selected, but if you’re around in the evening then you can come along to support.
Don’t forget that throught the summer, on the last Tuesday of the month, we have a track social in the kitchen & lounge area at the clubhouse, after the track session. Come along and meet some of your clubmates, with drinks and nibbles! The next one is on Tuesday 26th May.
And finally, entries for the Ron Hale Open on Saturday 5 July open tomorrow. The events will be hurdles (various distances), 100m, 300/400m, 3000m, Long Jump and High Jump. Entries will be available on Roster Athletics here There will be more communication about the event in coming days, but if you’re available to help out then please contact Richard Giles or Dan Ansell.
SAL NEWS
There will be a full report next week on the SAL at Eltham yesterday – final results are not yet available – but provisionally Kent AC came 5th of 6 teams, with weaknesses in some sprint and field events made up for by the usual strong performances in the middle distances, particularly from the women. Notable performers included Lin Skinner, running the 400, 800 and 1500, and Joe Hartley, who managed a 400m relay leg just after winning the steeplechase.
Tom Steadman in the Long Jump
We also had a full complement of officials at the event, which both represented the club and earned us maximum extra points. If you’re available and would like to help out, you don’t need experience or a qualification, contact one of the team managers (Joe Cartledge or Sofia Contino) or Jacqueline Francis, the officials manager.
Bert Royle in the 400m relay
The next event is at Watford on Sunday 21st June – signup sheets will be shared closer to the date. If you’d like to take part and help the team out in a range of events, it’s a fun day out.
NO HALF MEASURES
Kent runners were out and about in two notable halfs today – in Chislehurst there was a trail run, and there was the now well established Hackney Half in East London.
We had 6 finishers in Chislehurst – Matthew Thomas was 5th in 88:35, Pete Lighting finished in 91:24, and several of our women gained age group silverware – Nicola Cartlidge (1st VW45), Suzanne Spalding (3rd VW50), Ivona Gongolova (3rd VW40) and Nicky Hayes (2nd VW60)
In East London we had several finishers – Owen Hind (75:22), Will Brown (85:43), Alec LAuder (89:20), Peter Range (90:54), Rob Wells (1:46:51), Gavin Orr (1:48:45) and Nathan Stephenson (2:05:13)
Much further afield, Ash Green ran the Ultra Trail des Celtes 50k in France near Strasbourg – over 5000ft of climbing – in a bit over 6 hours.
Ash on French hills
In addition to the above, there was a B group outing to the South Downs, and other very long trail runs that were labelled as ‘race recces’ on Strava, which seems a touch of a humblebrag.
And up in Snowdonia Zuzana Nemeckova ran the fearsome UTS 100k in awful conditions which saw her just miss the final time cutoff after 18 hours of running – brutal, and puts everyone else’s efforts in perspective!
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 20 – Beckenham Relays
23 – KYAL – U14/16 – Dartford
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.
It’s a double bubble newsletter this week, when we cast our minds back to the last Thursday in April and our first open meet of the season, with four events to shine in – 200m, 1500m, shot put and triple jump. It was a fabulous evening of running, jumping, throwing and enthusiastic volunteering from the club: thanks to all who made it happen, more below. Exactly a week later, it was time for the second Assembly League race of the summer, this time in glorious Victoria park, more thirsty Thursday work, also below. Over this weekend Catford parkrun turned blue when Kent AC runners converged on Mountsfield park in another of our Kent AC parkrun takeovers. In terms of impressive individual performances, it’s once again Clare Elms who takes the biscuit with her extraordinary record-breaking performance at Battersea last week (see below for full report). Step up, too, Victoria Cartwright who won the Jane Tomlinson Canal Run last Tuesday evening:
Jane Tomlinson (1964-2007) was the legendary amateur athlete who raised £1.85million for charity while taking part in a series of endurance challenges while suffering from terminal cancer. Vic ran 5k in Jane’s memory in God’s own county, and was first woman home in 19.20. In the picture Vic is flanked by Jane’s husband Mike (on the left) and Jason Westmoreland, the race director from Rothwell Harriers. Also, barely a week goes by without our champion VW50 Lin Skinner proving her strength over a variety of distances. She won first VW50 at the Battersea race (see belowThursday Work #1) then, this weekend, she went west to windswept Devon to represent England Athletics in the hilly Bideford 10K and win bronze in 39.09:
Other stand-out performances in the last fortnight include David Devlin’s great time in the Limerick Marathon, 3:43:27, Che coming fourth in the Ted Pepper 10km at Bromley in 35.40 and Rob Laing coming in sixth in 36:15. This weekend Alec Lauder ran the Copenhagen Marathon in 3:16:00 and Rob Seseman really took off at the Gatwick Half in 70:17.
Lastly, there are all sorts of Kent AC events to look forward to this summer, not least our fab Wednesday Evening Social run. Meet at 6.50pm at Brockley Brewery (Brockley site) and be ready to run from 7pm. The run is a leisurely route and, here’s the social bit, it’s followed by well-earned drinks. Bags can be left with our friends at the Brewery. Cheers!
THURSDAY WORK #1
Slightly belated, but we held Kent AC’s Early Season Open Event on Thursday 30th April. It was a great evening with more than 190 athletes from clubs across the South of England, competing in 200m, 1500m, Shot-put and Triple Jump. Some amazing results, which are available on Roster
If you want to see the action we had two photographers on the evening their photos are available here and here (use the download pin 9720 for the second batch). Thanks to Suzanne Mitchell (whose photos are used below) and @mphotoe for their expertise.
The images below are from the 1500. In the women, Clare Elms and Lin Skinner slugged it out as usual. Clare won the gold in 5:04:73 and Lin silver in 5:05:39, with Eleanor Davidson taking the bronze in 5:12:58.
The men had an equally thrilling 1500, Kurt Williamson swept round in 4:02:54, closely followed by Olly Buck (pictured) in 4:05:50 with Joe Hartley taking bronze in 4:19:47 Our next event will be the Ron Hale Open on Sunday 5th July. Look out for the entry, which we’re hoping to open in the next few days. These events rely heavily on volunteers and the officials, so thanks to everyone who gave up their evening, if you want to volunteer please let Richard Giles know.
THURSDAY WORK #2
Thursday 7 May was Election Day, and canny Kent AC competitors registered their (apparently Green) votes early doors before donning their blue vests to battle their way up to Victoria Park for the second Assembly League of the summer. It was a great evening and we have all to run for in the June meet. Well done everyone who multitasked last Thursday, especially Caoimhe Nic Fhogartaigh and Vic Cartwright, who were first and second scorers:
BATTERSEA BRILLIANCE
Clare Elms hit the headlines once again with her extraordinary five miles in 29:53; she was first woman at Battersea Park last Tuesday. With this run she becomes World’s Best over the distance, and she smashed the British Record into the bargain. This race yielded some fab results for other club athletes. Jim Allchin was first in 26:19, Richard Giles, pacing Clare, took tenth place; Lin Skinner was first VW50 in 31:26, Sam Wilcock ran 30:43, Paul McCrone 35:17 and Karen Samuel 42:42.
SUMMER SAL-ING
This year’s Southern Athletics League (SAL) starts locally on Saturday 16th May in Eltham, and it would be great to have a strong turnout from all groups. The league is once a month through the summer, four fixtures in total. The league is free and open to all members, no experience is needed. All dates are listed at the bottom of the newsletter. As your captains for this year (Sofia Contino, Jo Cartledge and Alex Harris) we will be sending out more information on the Whatsapp groups and here soon. Do reach out if you have any questions. Here’s to a great summer of track and field.
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 16 – SAL – Eltham 20 – Beckenham Relays
23 – KYAL – U14/16 – Dartford
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.
On the biggest day of the running year, Kent had over 60 runners out but several times that supporting on the course, on a perfect day for the event. Up at the front of the race, records were set in the men’s and women’s events, while behind them club runners slogged away on a day that started chilly but ended warm. Debuts were made, PBs were achieved, and nobody was broken by it. A fine day out! Report below.
Our juniors were also in action this weekend, inconveniently having a KYAL scheduled for the same day as the mini marathon. Some game juniors (and their parents!) took part in both, a logistical problem given the KYAL was at Medway’s arena in Gillingham. We had fine performances in both, reported below.
Don’t forget that we have our first open meet of the season, on Thursday 30th at the track. Four events – 200m, 1500m, shot put and triple jump. If you’re not competing, come along to watch, support or help out.
LONDON CALLING
On a momentous day in the history of the race, Kent sent out over 60 runners for the London Marathon, including Alex Yee up front pacing the second elite group. Once again, John Gilbert was our star man, setting out at a 2:15 pace and coming home in 2:18, 18th in the mass race and 1st VM45. Amy Clements was our lead woman, for a while looking like she might break a PB she set 9 years and two babies ago, finishing in 2:46, 7th VW40.
Also doing well in their age categories were Chris Busaileh (2:27, 7th VM40), Caoimhe nic Fhogartaigh (2:53, 5th VW45), Victoria Buck (3:04, 10th VW50), and Roger Beardsworth (3:12, 7th VM65)
Our sub 2:30 men included Rhys Doherty (2:25), Alex Hamlet (2:25), Nick Acfield (2:28), Ben Clarke (2:28), Jonathan Collier (2:29) and James Ewing (2:28) The women coming in under 3 hours included Amelia Pettitt ((2C) 2:53), Lara Bromilow ((2C) 2:58) in her first big race since having a baby and Iona Cousland (2:59)
There were many other fine performances yesterday, debut marathons and PBs, including Che Compton (2:39, 13th VM50), Teresa Murphy (3:07) and Kathryn Williams (3:51, 36th VW60)
Kent women relaxing
Special credit to those pacing runners yesterday – George Russell and Jo Wint, who paced blind runners, and Jon Tipper, who set a 3 hour pace for half the race. And to club stalwart Sarah Young, who fulfilled her ambition to run a marathon with her daughter.
And well done to all who ran, and trained for four months to get in shape for it, and thanks to all the coaches and supporters who got them there!
JUNIOR ACTION
There were two big events for the juniors on Saturday – the mini marathon, which required pre-qualification, an event in itself a few weeks ago, and then the 2nd KYAL of the year, this one for U14 and U16 age groups, at the Medway arena in Gillingham.
In the mini marathon we had lots of good results (probably not comprehensive as the results were not searchable by club):
U12 boys
Oliver Davidson 6th U14 girls
Georgia Fox 112th U16 boys
Ed Pearce 101st
Matteo Mathers 106th
Joel Spencer 115th U16 girls
Ealeanor Davidson 24th
Daria Gilmore 83rd
Martha Parry 100th U18 boys
Bert Royle 44th U18 girls
Elena Oliphant (2C) 30th
Alice Hales 61st
Lexie Walker 78th
The Under-14 boys grasped the chances that the Gillingham meet offered to deliver personal bests in familiar events and try out some new ones.
Stand-out performances included:
a huge new best of 27.02s for Otis Atlee in the 200m
Zac Murray returning to the track with a scorching 13.83s in the 80m hurdles
Mus Senar putting in the hard yards in multiple races from 80m hurdles up to 800m
spirited efforts in the field with Nico and Emerson Hunter Stuart both breaching the 15-metre mark in the discus.
A number of the Under-14 girls hotfooted it from the London Mini-marathon to Gillingham to then hotfoot it round the track.
The small but enthusiastic team covered a range of track and field events between them.
Evie Atanda soared over 75m of hurdles in just 12.86s. In the field Norah Hebditch and Phoebe Hall both smashed the 12-metre mark in discus.
Among the under 16 boys, Mack Atanda (16.63s) and Elyjah Abdoulaye (17.2s) had to contend with racing for the first time over 100m hurdles, a big step up from the 80mH that they competed in at under-15 level.
Zy’Shae Brown-Thomas and Olaoluwa Oladipo were dominant in the A- and B-strong 300m races, respectively, stopping the clock at 37.61s and 38.12s.
The huge team spirt among the under-16 girls paid off richly in the 4x100m relay, where they came in second in a very competitive race. Several PBs were achieved too:
Amalya Hunte had PBs in the 200m 28.25 (by over a second) and in LJ (4.26) while also debuting in the hammer.
Lizzie Brain ran the 200m for the first time, where she ran a really well-fought race to take 2nd in a great 27.55s.
Shekinah Acheampong competed across a wide variety of events and had a great run in the 300m (47.86s).
Lily O’Gorman worked hard in some very tough events, including the hurdles and 800m.
Zoe Folarin had a very speedy run (a PB) in the 300m (45.55) and did really solid work in the HJ and 80m hurdles – despite both events being scheduled for the same time!
KYAL offers athletes a great opportunity to seek new PBs or compete at relatively unfamiliar events in a supportive environment as well as aiding the club in its efforts to maintain its coveted division 1 status. The Junior coaching team also guarantees the same sunny, dry conditions for all the forthcoming fixtures. So take the chance to sign up.
SUMMER SAL-ING
This year’s Southern Assembly League (SAL) starts locally on Saturday 16th May in Eltham, and it would be great to have a strong turnout from all groups. The league is once a month through the summer, four fixtures in total. The league is free and open to all members, no experience is needed. All dates are listed at the bottom of the newsletter. As your captains for this year (Sofia Contino, Jo Cartledge and Alex Harris) we will be sending out more information on the Whatsapp groups and here soon. Do reach out if you have any questions. Here’s to a great summer of track and field.
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
April
30 – Open Meet – Alex Yee Arena
May 7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – SAL – Eltham 20 – Beckenham Relays
23 – KYAL – U14/16 – Dartford
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.
