Cross Country
96
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 17/11/24<!–
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96
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 10/11/24<!–
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96
Races across the world
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 03/11/24<!–
First, let’s head to Turkey, where things came together Adrian Young (below). He had a great run in Istanbul, scoring a 10-minute PB: 3:48:21
Today was also a big day in New York City, where the residents surely need the distraction. Our James Bates ran an impressive 3:32:01. Not a PB, he tells us, but that’s a great time, in any case.
Next, our Ralph Weir was running with the Ugandans this weekend. He finished the Elgon Half Marathon in 1:38:38. His half marathon times are usually way faster than that, but he reports he was happy to be the first muzungu, despite the race being inundated with the exhaust fumes of many motorbikes, and being sent the wrong way a couple of times. The race was started by Joshua Cheptegei, to promote his campaign against gender-based violence: the horrific case of Rebecca Cheptegei is still foremost in people’s minds in Uganda’s running community.
Ain other news, a reminder that Christmas Party tickets are on sale, see below. And the London Marathon ballot draw will be at the Christmas Party, so if you want to run and have a rejection from the ballot, have run and volunteered for the club, then you can enter the draw. There aren’t many on the list as yet, so a great chance of snagging a place.
A couple of November dates: Next Saturday, 9 November is a cross country day. It’s in Beckenham, so you’ll be home in time for tea.
Don’t forget the AGM at the end of the month – 26th November.
MEANWHILE, UP IN MANSFIELD
…Our only Kent AC team was the Under 20s. They represented strongly, each member of the team giving it their all on a windy 3k course. The team were placed 40th out of 83. Joe English on the first leg ran a fantastic 9:17. Theo Gaymes ran the second leg in 10:21. Guy Barnett kept up the pressure, finishing the third leg in 9:36. Excellent work, team.
VOTE ELMS
Clare Elms is much too modest to blow her own trumpet, but readers may be aware that she has smashed a good number of athletics world records this year. Fortunately, her daughter Lucy has proudly alerted us to the fact that her mother is a nominee for Athletics Weekly Masters Athlete of the Year. If, like us, you think should be garlanded, once more, with this latest honour, you can cast your vote here
A MESSAGE FROM OUR WELFARE TEAM
The clocks have gone back, the evenings are darker, and we still want to run, right?
Some timely advice to ensure we all stay safe, as well as some considerations to bear in mind from a woman’s perspective, in the link below.
Smart Safety Strategies:
• Plan your route in advance and stick to well-lit, populated areas
• Run against traffic so you can see approaching vehicles
• Share your location and expected return time with a friend or family member
• Keep one earbud out or volume low to stay aware of your surroundings
• Vary your routine – avoid running the same route at the same time every day
Essential Gear:
• Wear reflective clothing or a high-visibility vest
• Carry a charged phone
• Use a running light or headlamp
Trust Your Instincts:
If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t worry about appearing rude – cross the street, change direction, or enter a busy shop if you feel uncomfortable.
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/oct/30/women-safe-exercise-in-the-dark
CHRISTMAS IN OUR SIGHTS
Kent AC Christmas party tickets are now on sale🎄✨
£20 per person including an arrival drink, a buffet and a dancefloor🥂
Purchase your tickets here – get them before they’re gone!
RUN IN THE DARK
If you are looking for a race to sign up to in November, look no further than Southwark Athletics Club, who are hosting 1200m and 1 mile races on Thursday 7th November.
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
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
9 – Surrey League XC – Beckenham Place Park
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
March
30 – 12/6 Stage Road Relay Championships – Milton Keynes
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
TRACK, TRACK, TRACK
Buy your track pass here.
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
Please see a helpful FAQs guide here
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.
Session times are:
Monday: 07:00 -15:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 -1700
Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Saturday – Sunday: 09:00-15:00
Price:
Adult resident: £2.70
Adult non resident: £3.00
Junior (U16): £1.30
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
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
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Kent AC · 90 Montacute Road · London · London, London SE6 4XQ · United Kingdom
96
Cheery in Eryri, Effort in Frankfurt
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 27/10/24<!–
But there wasn’t much race action this weekend for most of us, just the intrepid few running over mountains in North Wales and round city streets in Germany.
In the Eryri Marathon around Snowdon, Joe Derrett remarkably completed his 11th race around the mountains in 4:06 hours. Ben McGeown ran an excellent 3:21, and our resident ultrarunner Zuzana Nemeckova ran 4:21 in what is for her a short course race. Previous winner and Snowdonia resident Russell Bentley could be seen haring around Dulwich parkrun yesterday in a PB of 15:16.
Over in Germany, we had two runners in the Frankfurt Marathon – Chris Greenwood ran a remarkable 2:26:33, which places him 2nd on the all-time V50 list, and means we have 2nd place in both the V45 (Nick Torry) and V50 marathon lists, both set this year. Gian Valentini ran it in 2:51:28.
Up in Milton Keynes, Dame Dibaba ran a very fast 25:09 in the Wolverton 5 mile race, while Clare Elms broke yet another British VW60 record with 30:44.
And we forgot to mention last week that Alex Yee won the World Triathlon Title to add to his Olympic Gold. We may have some exciting news to come about Alex in the near future!
A reminder that Christmas Party tickets are on sale, see below. And the London Marathon ballot draw will be at the Christmas Party, so if you want to run and have a rejection from the ballot, have run and volunteered for the club, then you can enter the draw. There aren’t many on the list as yet, so a great chance of getting a place!
Don’t forget the AGM next month – 26th November – submit any motions or requests to stand for a committee post by 30th October.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR WELFARE TEAM
The clocks have gone back, the evenings are darker, and we still want to run, right?
Some timely advice to ensure we all stay safe, as well as some considerations to bear in mind from a woman’s perspective, in the link below.
Smart Safety Strategies:
• Plan your route in advance and stick to well-lit, populated areas
• Run against traffic so you can see approaching vehicles
• Share your location and expected return time with a friend or family member
• Keep one earbud out or volume low to stay aware of your surroundings
• Vary your routine – avoid running the same route at the same time every day
Essential Gear:
• Wear reflective clothing or a high-visibility vest
• Carry a charged phone
• Use a running light or headlamp
Trust Your Instincts:
If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t worry about appearing rude – cross the street, change direction, or enter a busy shop if you feel uncomfortable.
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/oct/30/women-safe-exercise-in-the-dark
CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER
Kent AC Christmas party tickets are now on sale🎄✨
£20 per person including an arrival drink, a buffet and a dancefloor🥂
Purchase your tickets here – get them before they’re gone!
RUN IN THE DARK
If you are looking for a race to sign up to in November, then look no further than Southwark Athletics Club, who are hosting 1200m and 1 mile races on Thursday 7th November.
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.
If you wish to propose any change to our rules/constitution or a major change to club policy, this must be submitted in writing before 30th October. This will enable it to be included in the calling notice to all members and the agenda and all accompanying papers, which will be sent out in early November.
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
If you are interested in any of these, or wish to contest any other role, please write to and your email will go to the incumbent who will happily tell you what their job involves. If you wish to stand, please let know before 30th October so it can go in the agenda.
A 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
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
2 – National XC Relays – Mansfield
9 – Surrey League XC – Beckenham Place Park
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
March
30 – 12/6 Stage Road Relay Championships – Milton Keynes
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
TRACK, TRACK, TRACK
Buy your track pass here.
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
Please see a helpful FAQs guide here
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.
Session times are:
Monday: 07:00 -15:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 -1700
Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Saturday – Sunday: 09:00-15:00
Price:
Adult resident: £2.70
Adult non resident: £3.00
Junior (U16): £1.30
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
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
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Kent AC · 90 Montacute Road · London · London, London SE6 4XQ · United Kingdom
96
No fair weather runners
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 20/10/24<!–
WEEKEND RACING REPORT
Despite named storms causing havoc on the northerly and southerly parts of the UK this weekend, there’s still been PBs a plenty. In between a busy cross country schedule, a huge well done to the following Kent ACers for putting their training to good use:
Alex Gillespie for the Cabbage Patch 10 in 66:46
Alex Robbins for finishing the Amsterdam marathon in 3:20:39
The Battersea Park half marathon crew:
Simon Vaisey finishing 18th overall in 77:58
Teresa Murphy finishing 6th woman and 2nd VW45 in 88:47
Khawaja Shahabuddin finishing in 1:51:37
James Bates hitting a 94:31 PB
Arejeet Nag who practiced cross country running and hit a PB all at the same time at the Abingdon Marathon, coming in at 2:54:54
John Bell for nailing a huge PB of 2:57:49 at the York marathon and Nicola Cartlidge for also hitting a huge PB of 3:25:25!
Rob Harvey for finishing running the Lullingstone 10k in 51:29
CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER
Kent AC Christmas party tickets are now on sale🎄✨
£20 per person including an arrival drink, a buffet and a dancefloor🥂
Purchase your tickets via the SumUp store: https://kentac.sumupstore.com – get them before they’re gone!
BLASTING FROM THE PASTING
One for the history fans out there. Check out this awesome commemoration of Kent’s 75th birthday.
RUN IN THE DARK
If you are looking for a race to sign up to in November, then look no further than Southwark Athletics Club, who are hosting 1200m and 1 mile races on Thursday 7th November.
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.
If you wish to propose any change to our rules/constitution or a major change to club policy, this must be submitted in writing before 30th October. This will enable it to be included in the calling notice to all members and the agenda and all accompanying papers, which will be sent out in early November.
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
If you are interested in any of these, or wish to contest any other role, please write to and your email will go to the incumbent who will happily tell you what their job involves. If you wish to stand, please let know before 30th October so it can go in the agenda.
A 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
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
2 – National XC Relays – Mansfield
9 – Surrey League XC – Beckenham Place Park
23 – South of Thames Junior XC – West Horsley Place, Guildford
26 – AGM – BHT
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
14 or 21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Sommerhill 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
March
30 – 12/6 Stage Road Relay Championships – Milton Keynes
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
TRACK, TRACK, TRACK
Buy your track pass here.
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
Please see a helpful FAQs guide here
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.
Session times are:
Monday: 07:00 -15:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 -1700
Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Saturday – Sunday: 09:00-15:00
Price:
Adult resident: £2.70
Adult non resident: £3.00
Junior (U16): £1.30
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
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
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This email was sent to <<Email Address>>
why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences
Kent AC · 90 Montacute Road · London · London, London SE6 4XQ · United Kingdom
96
Carbons vs spikes
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 13/10/24<!–
Eight volunteers are needed to help at the next Surrey League fixture, which we’re hosting at Beckenham Place Park on Saturday 9th November. If you’re free for a few of hours from
13:15pm – 16:00pm and can volunteer at the finish line to note down runners/times, please contact or message Phil Marsden on WhatsApp.
Long sleeved tops and gloves are back in the running pile but did you know we have Kent AC bobble hats available on our online shop? Each hat is £19.20 and there are currently 13 remaining, so grab yours now!
Our models
Read on to catch up on all the results and for a full race report from our cross country captains.
WIMBLEDON WONDERLAND
The first fixture sets the mark. A fantastic showing for our first XC match of the season in Wimbledon! As is now typical from the October fixture, the weather was fair, ground firm, and carbon plated shoes in abundance.
Squad
Senior Men
The men’s race presented a classic competitive field. With our new signing and Surrey league debutant Félix giving us all a lesson in how XC races are started properly down in France, humbling the rest of the field over the first 800m. The race settled in after a lap and it was the dedicated Sesemann and Dockerill who came home first for the club in 20th and 23rd respectively. Félix followed in 37th, with Nick Acfield, Jake Simmonds, Harry Tivnen, and JT (3rd v40), all closely behind in 46th, 54th, 73rd, and 75th respectively. Isaac Parker, Matt Speed and the warhorse Calum Fraser completed our scoring top 10. Big shout outs also to Nick, Harry, Isaac on 4 top-notch SL debuts, well played. A team standing: 5th
As often happens it was the club legends taking the young guard to the sword, Barny, Alex Harris, and Jim Allchin (lacing up for his first race for 3 years) all wrestling across the field to achieve admirable scoring places for the B team. With the customary XC diehards – George Russell, Ian Elwood , Ben Armson, Ben Mitchell, Sam Dames, Ali McMaster, and Rory Knight – getting giddy at the first site of a puddle and bolstering the scoring 20. B team standing: 6th
With over 30 men competing there really are too many to call each out individually, but I can personally say with confidence when looking everyone’s faces during the race, either rallying back in the opposite direction or by the side, there were a huge amount of Kent AC athletes truly giving there 100%, it’s great to witness and chapeau to that. For better or for worse, we have a strong tradition for building well as the season matures, and under the training schedule our coaches provide there’s no reason this won’t come into fruition this forthcoming season. You’ve set your own foundation, now it’s time we build on it.
James
Men’s XC Co-Captain
Senior Women
As always for the Wimbledon meet, it was a beautiful early afternoon. We had a good turn out for the women’s team. Catherine Kandie was the first Kent runner to finish off the back from an impressive 10k on the road last weekend. She came in around 30th but she was so quick they missed her in the results, so official women’s results are pending.
Swiftly behind Catherine was Alexa Parker in 33rd place and Ellie Freeden in 37th. Aisling Ahern was our 4th scorer in 53rd place for her Surrey League debut. Then our resident World record holder Claire Elms took an impressive 55th place rounding out the A team.
First home for the B team was Sally Urquhart in 139th place. Then Susanna Davies in 169th, hot on her heals was Sydney Nunamaker in 176th, followed by bride to be Johanna Mott in 197th place and rounding out the 5th scorer for the Bs was Jo Wint. Shoutout to Sofia Conitino for switching the track spikes for the trail shoes and XC Co-captain Genevieve Blanch for running an impressive 6.6k at 6 month postpartum!
While we are still waiting on the official results to be corrected we expect Kent senior women to finish 5th place as a club with the A team moving to 6th place! Either way we can confidently say the squad got off to a strong start and we look forward to our home race at Beckenham Place Park in November!
Parris
Women’s XC Co-Captain
Our women representing
Juniors
A sunny day with a chill in the air made great racing conditions. The course followed a relatively flat route and firm, gravelly paths for it which made it hard going for spike-wearers, but our U15/U17 boys and girl picked up some great positions. 1st home for the boys was George with a very competitive 45th place in a time of 16:28.
Next home in 65th place, we saw Luke who smashed his first Cross Country for Kent. Lucas and Harry came 70th and 92nd. Both had PBs on Strava for 2M distance. Tallulah was on her own (get well soon Alice) and put in an amazing performance. She came 34th and well in to the top half of the finishers even with 2 higher age groups running.
There are several more legs to go, and there is no obligation to take part in them all – we would encourage any athlete who enjoys middle distance running to give it a go! (Would be great to see some U13s representing the club too over the cross country season!). If you would like to know more about what’s involved, do message one of our coaches.
Jason
Juniors XC Captain
Candid Ken
Women in Wimbledon
Our furry spectator
Photos: Danny Easton
It’s only going to get muddier and that is all part of the fun!
Sign up for the upcoming fixtures here.
WEEKEND RACING REPORT
A busy weekend of racing and hopefully many celebrations after the fantastic results we have seen.
Starting off with a quick mention from last weekend.
At the Dartford Bridge 10k, Rory Knight took the win in 34:03 followed shortly after by Catherine Kandie, securing the women’s gold in 35:39.
Now onto the long list of results from this weekend:
Leeds Abbey Dash 10k
Russell Bentley – 30:49
Chris Busaileh – 32:09
Ben Harding – 32:10
Petts Wood 10k
Nicholas Clegg – 36:39
John Gilchrist – 38:03
Fred Ungoed-Courtney – 38:22
Vic Cartwright (2nd Woman) – 42:27
Great Eastern Run
Joe Hartley – 70:46
Calum Fraser – 72:16
Rob Laing – 72:25
Che Compton – 72:38
Phil Woodford-Smith – 77:11
Bryony Procter – 77:48
Great Eastern Run crew
Oxford Half Marathon
Caitlin Bradley – 84:11
Laurie Roberts – 98:41
Royal Parks Half Marathon
Fergus Johnson – 73:30
Alex Morales – 86:02
Manchester Half Marathon
Josh Lennard-Jones – 84:42
Coigach Half Marathon
Vic Buck (1st Woman) – 94:40
Our president doing us proud
Chicago Marathon
Tommy Thain – 2:51:28
Andy Wright – 3:12:26
Beki Hilton-Hanns – 3:15:49
Post-race PB grin for Beki
Ladybower Reservoir 52k
Heather Castle – 9:08:58
Owen Hind made the parkrun UK Top 10 with 15:10 at Dulwich on Saturday morning.
Kudos to all!
If we have missed any results, then make sure to let us know so we can include them next time.
RUN IN THE DARK
If you are looking for a race to sign up to in November, then look no further than Southwark Athletics Club, who are hosting 1200m and 1 mile races on Thursday 7th November.
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.
If you wish to propose any change to our rules/constitution or a major change to club policy, this must be submitted in writing before 30th October. This will enable it to be included in the calling notice to all members and the agenda and all accompanying papers, which will be sent out in early November.
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
If you are interested in any of these, or wish to contest any other role, please write to and your email will go to the incumbent who will happily tell you what their job involves. If you wish to stand, please let know before 30th October so it can go in the agenda.
A 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
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
2 – National XC Relays – Mansfield
9 – Surrey League XC – Beckenham Place Park
23 – South of Thames Junior XC – West Horsley Place, Guildford
26 – AGM – BHT
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
14 or 21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Sommerhill 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
March
30 – 12/6 Stage Road Relay Championships – Milton Keynes
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
TRACK, TRACK, TRACK
Buy your track pass here.
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
Please see a helpful FAQs guide here
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.
Session times are:
Monday: 07:00 -15:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 -1700
Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Saturday – Sunday: 09:00-15:00
Price:
Adult resident: £2.70
Adult non resident: £3.00
Junior (U16): £1.30
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
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
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Kent AC · 90 Montacute Road · London · London, London SE6 4XQ · United Kingdom
96
Relay good news
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 06/10/24<!–
THE NATIONAL ROAD RELAYS
RACE REPORT
First up, pictured above, the under-15 girls, Tallulah Jones, Alice Hales and Claudia Rigby, who finished 48th in the relays. This is the first time Kent AC have been able to field a team of talented junior females at this competition. Thank you to Claudia, who is a sprint hurdler but bravely took on this challenge to make up the strong team.
Next up, the senior females, and the team comprising (from left) Victoria Buck, Alexa Parker, Clare Elms and Amy Clements, which finished in 30th place.
This was an incredible achievement, not least because Victoria Buck didn’t even know she was going to race until 8 o’clock that morning: the following report from our woman on the course explains all:
“As ever for the National Road Relays, it was a glorious day of sunshine and top-tier racing in Birmingham. For the women, the day started with some uncertainty after a last-minute drop out on the morning. However, our selfless and esteemed president Vic Buck stepped in to save the day, helping the team make the top 30 against some very strong competition this year.
Vic took on the notoriously speedy first leg and held her own against the fastest of the fast, coming home nearly 1m30s quicker than her performance last year (when once again she stepped in to save the B team from incompleteness despite having a broken arm). Alexa took on the second leg, and despite being rather disappointed with her time this year, managed to take 23 places to bring the team up into the 40s. The famous Clare Elms took some time off from breaking world records on the track to run a solid 3rd leg before passing onto powerhouse Amy Clements to bring it home for the team in the 35th fastest time of the day (out of 275). Amy, Vic and Clare also recorded the fastest V40, V50 and V55 times of the day demonstrating the true prowess of the Kent AC ladies squad. A great day had by all and looking forward to the next road racing season in Spring 2025.
Well done those women!
As for the men, our crack team of Rob Sesemann, Owen Hind, Dame Dibaba, Joes English, Joe Hartley and Isaac partner earned their best team result ever, finishing in 20th place.
Here’s a full report from Chris Busaileh:
“Kent AC’s senior men came an impressive 20th at the National 6 stage relays at Sutton Coldfield on Saturday.
Rob Sesemann kicked off things off on the ultra competitive leg 1, bringing us back in 25th in a very quick time of 17.51. That’s a big improvement on his time from last year.
A resurgent Owen Hind then set about bringing us up through the field. He did so brilliantly, taking back 8 places with a scorching 17.30, his quickest time on this course reminding everyone what he can do when fit.
Dame, who had performed so well at Aldershot, then took over on 3rd leg. Badly hampered with a back injury, he was disappointed not to have run faster although his 18.29 was still very creditable and kept the team in 17th.
On leg 4, young Joe English showed no ill effects from freshers week at Bristol Uni and stormed round in 18.14, hinting at his great potential. That time was one of the quickest of anyone under 20 and bodes well for the upcoming Euro XC trials in Liverpool.
The experienced Joe Hartley then took over on the 5th leg. Joe ran a well judged leg to bring us up a further position to 15th with an 18.49.
That left Isaac Parker, a late call up to the team, at the sharp end of the race facing some really quick athletes. Isaac held his nerve and stepped up impressively, passing through 5k close to his lifetime pb (anyone who’s run round that course will understand how difficult that is) to bring home in 20th with a 19.05.
That represented a big improvement on our 27th and 28th in the previous 2 years and, with the quality of the athletes still to come into the team, demonstrates our strength in depth. It certainly bodes well for the 12 stage in the spring.”
STREETWISE
James Leech from Peckham Street-O has contacted the club to promote the next event being organised by South London Orienteers, taking place this Tuesday 8 October. This event kicks off their 2024/25 Street-O series, which this week starts at the Montpelier pub in Peckham. The aim is to get to as many checkpoints as possible within one hour (you can start any time between 18;15 and 19.30). Participants have a drink and compare routes in the pub afterwards. Solos, pairs and groups all welcome. You can sign up, and find out more, here
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.
If you wish to propose any change to our rules/constitution or a major change to club policy, this must be submitted in writing before 30th October. This will enable it to be included in the calling notice to all members and the agenda and all accompanying papers, which will be sent out in early November.
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
If you are interested in any of these, or wish to contest any other role, please write to and your email will go to the incumbent who will happily tell you what their job involves. If you wish to stand, please let know before 30th October so it can go in the agenda.
A 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
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
October
12 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon
November
2 – National XC Relays – Mansfield (tbc)
9 – Surrey League XC – tbc
23 – South of Thames Junior XC – West Horsley Place, Guildford
26 – AGM – BHT
30 – Kent Vets XC Championships – Central Park, Dartford
December
7 – SEAA Masters XC Championships – Horspath, Oxford (tbc)
14 – Christmas Party – Jubilee Ground, Catford
14 or 21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Sommerhill 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
March
30 – 12/6 Stage Road Relay Championships – Milton Keynes
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
LUCKY NUMBERS
EASYFUNDRAISING
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
TRACK, TRACK, TRACK
Buy your track pass here.
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
Please see a helpful FAQs guide here
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.
Session times are:
Monday: 07:00 -15:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 -1700
Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Saturday – Sunday: 09:00-15:00
Price:
Adult resident: £2.70
Adult non resident: £3.00
Junior (U16): £1.30
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
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
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Kent AC · 90 Montacute Road · London · London, London SE6 4XQ · United Kingdom
96
Before the Fall
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 29/09/24<!–
We had 3 runners in Berlin for the marathon – Matt Speed ran 2:27:31, Jake Herrera 2:46:21 and Amy White 3:05:35.
Closer to home, Nicol Scott ran the Ealing half in 89:41, Sally Urquhart in 95:10 and Beki Hilton Hanns in 1:42:10. Gian Valentini meanwhile ran the Lugano half in 83:20.
It wouldn’t be a Kent newsletter without more records by the indefatigable Clare Elms. Yesterday in Canterbury she broke the British 5000m VW60 record in 18:35, and last Saturday she ran the Vitality Mile in London in 5:21, a British VW60 record and a World Best time for the category. Clare’s achievements have been noticed elsewhere – The Distance Project, a youtube channel run by Callum Elson, interviewed her for their latest episode, here.
The cross country captains urge everybody to sign up to run this season – the first xc of the year is in Wimbledon on 12th October, a mail will be sent out soon with full details of times and travel.
The National relays are next Saturday at Sutton Coldfield – an email will be sent out soon regarding the team, travel and leg orders.
Also, remember that you have a second chance of getting to run in the London Marathon if you failed in the ballot – we have a club ballot, which will be drawn at the Christmas Party. Details of how to enter below.
Finally, please note that the track will be unavailable for training on Thursday night (3rd October) due to a filming event at the venue at that time.
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.
If you wish to propose any change to our rules/constitution or a major change to club policy, this must be submitted in writing before 30th October. This will enable it to be included in the calling notice to all members and the agenda and all accompanying papers, which will be sent out in early November.
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
If you are interested in any of these, or wish to contest any other role, please write to and your email will go to the incumbent who will happily tell you what their job involves. If you wish to stand, please let know before 30th October so it can go in the agenda.
A 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
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
October
5 – 6/4/3 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
12 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon
November
2 – National XC Relays – Mansfield (tbc)
9 – Surrey League XC – tbc
23 – South of Thames Junior XC – West Horsley Place, Guildford
26 – AGM – BHT
30 – Kent Vets XC Championships – Central Park, Dartford
December
7 – SEAA Masters XC Championships – Horspath, Oxford (tbc)
14 – Christmas Party – Jubilee Ground, Catford
14 or 21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Sommerhill 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
March
30 – 12/6 Stage Road Relay Championships – Milton Keynes
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
TRACK, TRACK, TRACK
Buy your track pass here.
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
Please see a helpful FAQs guide here
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.
Session times are:
Monday: 07:00 -15:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 -1700
Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Saturday – Sunday: 09:00-15:00
Price:
Adult resident: £2.70
Adult non resident: £3.00
Junior (U16): £1.30
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
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
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Kent AC · 90 Montacute Road · London · London, London SE6 4XQ · United Kingdom
96
Masters Mania
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 22/09/24<!–
Next we see some international masters action in Switzerland followed by the Vitality 10,000m.
As ever, there’s plenty of information regarding 5k coaching programmes, parkrun takeovers, ballots for the Lonndon Marathon and more towards the end of this week’s newsletter.
And, as always, if you have anything to add to the weekly newsletter,
send us an email so that it can be featured. We love hearing from you and it’s your newsletter!
SOUTH ENGLAND ROAD RELAYS
Another successful South England meeting hosted in Aldershot saw Kent AC put out several teams with some golden success in the vets! The event was held around an amazing 3km lap course involving ups, downs, turns, bends, puddles, and even some mud. No it wasn’t the Surrey League! With some morning rain to boost the oxygen in the air clearing up for a warm late summer hoorah and minimal wind, it was a strong day for being outside with your fellow running aficionados.
First up, we have the Under 15 Boys with George Searle leading out with the fastest run in the team, followed by Barnaby Hayer and Matteo Watson finishing in 41st. Well done!
Next up we have Tailulah, Alice and Claudia in the Under 15 Girls who rounded out in 45th position.
Moving up the age categories we come to the Under 17 Men with Dylan running the fastest time of the team, Louis coming up next and completed with Jasper to come in 60th.
With a jump up the categories, we look at the Women’s 40+ with Vic Buck leading out strongly, followed by Teresa Murphy and Caoimhe Nic Fhogartaigh ending with the fastest run of the team. The women came through with the Bronze medal! I wonder if SEAA put pieces of the Eiffel Tower in their medals too.
Over to the Men’s 40+ who eavenged last year’s silver medals and took home gold. Jonathan Tipper took on the always competitive 1st leg, coming home in 6th with the fastest time of the team. Rob Laing then set about the task of moving up through, picking off 2 places to bring the team to 4th. Dave Morgan was next to move the team to 3rd which set things up nicely for Chris Busaileh who moved past Brighton and then long time leaders Woking in the last km to make for an exciting win.
Women’s Seniors saw them score a top 10 performance with 9th position from 55 overall. Bryony Proctor lead the team out with a 9th place performance to foreshadow later results. Then came Ellie Freedon, Catherine Kandie and finally Amy Clements with the fastest run of the team. Amy ran the 3rd fastest time of her leg and earned the women’s team a few places in her brilliant run.
Men’s Seniors pushed out two teams for the event with the A team coming through in 12th and B team scoring 49th. Some last minute changes on the day saw George Russell receiving the call up and Nick Acfield running a brilliant 5th leg in the A team. Dame Dibaba extended his tremendous form with the first leg, followed by Rob Sesemann, Jake Simmonds, newcomer John Collier with the fastest leg of the team, Nick Acfield and Ben Clarke. Running the Kent’s B were Phil Sanders, George Russell, Matt Speed, Calum Fraser, Isaac Parker and Sam Dames.
Julian Gevers represented the Masters Men 50+ with a top 10 performance in the first leg but without a complete team.
Finally we have the Masters Men 60+ who came through in 6th position. Leonard Reilly lead the men out, followed by Chris Lydon with the fastest run of the team, Roger Beardsworth and Luke Armitage.
WEEKEND ROUND UP
There have been races a plenty this week with London’s Vitality 10,000 and even some more Masters medals in Switzerland at the Swiss Masters Athletics.
First up is hurdles coach Miguel Stucchi who competed in several VM45 events:
Gold in High Jump with 1.50m
Gold in 110m Hurdles with hurdles of 1m High 21.74
Gold in triple jump with 9.94m
Silver in Javelin with 24.40m
Silver in Long Jump with 4.26m
Along with his silverware, he won 3 bottles of wine and 2 jars of honey! That sounds delicious.
Closer to home were many runners competing in the Vitality 10,000 with some strong ones even competing for the 2nd day in a ray. With 38 runners competing there’s too many to mention but do always send in photos to the Kent AC Group Competition Chat if you want to be shared on the newsletter.
PINK IS THE NEW BLUE
Get ready to don the pink hi-vis vests as we will be doing a takeover ay Peckham parkrun on Saturday 28th September.
We are looking to fill the roster so please sign up here, and remember you can always run first too!
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.
If you wish to propose any change to our rules/constitution or a major change to club policy, this must be submitted in writing before 30th October. This will enable it to be included in the calling notice to all members and the agenda and all accompanying papers, which will be sent out in early November.
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
Juniors co-secretary: to assist Anne Hepple in managing the juniors set-up
Kit manager: to coordinate the ordering and distribution of Kent AC vests and other kit
A big thanks to all for their hard work over this and previous years.
If you are interested in any of these, or wish to contest any other role, please write to and your email will go to the incumbent who will happily tell you what their job involves. If you wish to stand, please let know before 30th October so it can go in the agenda.
A 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
LONDON MARATHON CLUB BALLOT
If you failed to get a London Marathon place, you have a second chance!
The club hopes to have a couple of places available (we haven’t been informed of how many yet) 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.
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
ON THE ROAD AGAIN
Autumn relay season is about to kick off in two weeks time with the Southern Road Relays at Rushmoor Arena at Aldershot on Saturday 21st September.
Entries for the Southerns have been filed and teams will be finalised shortly.
Look out on WhatsApp groups for final teams, order and travel details or speak to your team captain! (Chris B for men, Alexa P for women).
If you missed out on signing up for the Southerns, or if you want two bites at the apple, it’s not too late to state your availability for the Nationals, which will be, as usual, at Sutton Park on Saturday 5th October – sign up sheet here. Teams are of 6 for the men, with each leg running around 6km and 4 for the women with each leg running 4.3km.
JOIN THE PROGRAMME – FINAL CALL
This weekend is the FINAL CALL for members to register with 3 places remaining.
We’re excited to offer a *free 10-week 5k training program for 10-15 of our adult members, regardless of your current running level. Whether you’re aiming to break 20 minutes, set a new personal best, or simply regain some speed, this program is designed to help you reach your goals whist complementing your existing training.
You’ll be part of a supportive group, with fellow members cheering you on every step of the way, both in training and on race day. It’s a great chance to push yourself and achieve something special with the encouragement of others.
*In return for the coaching, we kindly ask that you consider giving back to the club in the future whether that’s by volunteering at a club event helping with gate duty, or making a small donation.
Your support helps keep our community thriving.
Key Details
• Target Race: The programme will culminate in a specific target race(s), which could be a parkrun, cross-country race, or open meet.
• Focus Areas: Running technique, drills, speed work and one-on-one coaching.
• Coaches: Led by Rowan Crichton and an additional coach (TBD).
• Inclusivity: Open to runners of all genders, ages and speeds.
Schedule
• Duration: 10 weeks
• Start Date: Saturday 28th September – Saturday 14th December
• Weekly Group Sessions: Saturdays, 10:00 – 12:00 (Suspended on Saturday 12th October and 9th November for Surrey League XC)
• Locations: Various local spots, including the track
Programme Structure
1. Initial Assessment: Conducted in Week 1 to tailor individual programmes.
2. Weekly Group Sessions: Focused on various aspects of running, with expert guidance.
3. Individual Programmes: Personalised plans issued to guide your daily and weekly training.
Registration
Participation is on a first-come basis. Register your interest here.
Contact Information
For any questions, please reach out to Rowan Crichton at .
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
September
21 – 6/4/3 Southern Stage Road Relays, including Vets (V40/V50/V60) Relay Championships – Aldershot
28 – Volunteer takeover Peckham parkrun
October
5 – 6/4/3 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
12 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon
November
2 – National XC Relays – Mansfield (tbc)
9 – Surrey League XC – tbc
23 – South of Thames Junior XC – West Horsley Place, Guildford
26 – AGM – BHT
30 – Kent Vets XC Championships – Central Park, Dartford
December
7 – SEAA Masters XC Championships – Horspath, Oxford (tbc)
14 – Christmas Party – Jubilee Ground, Catford
14 or 21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Sommerhill 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
March
30 – 12/6 Stage Road Relay Championships – Milton Keynes
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
TRACK, TRACK, TRACK
Buy your track pass here.
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
Please see a helpful FAQs guide here
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.
Session times are:
Monday: 07:00 -15:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 -1700
Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Saturday – Sunday: 09:00-15:00
Price:
Adult resident: £2.70
Adult non resident: £3.00
Junior (U16): £1.30
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
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
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Kent AC · 90 Montacute Road · London · London, London SE6 4XQ · United Kingdom
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Champ-agne no problems
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 15/09/24<!–
Read on for more triumphs across the Channel, Down Under and up at the re-scheduled National XC. Not a bad way to end the summer, eh?
Never fear, there are plenty more opportunities for fun coming up. We have the next parkrun take-over, and the club ballot for London Marathon places too – read on for details about how you can take part and get involved.
And, as always, if you have anything to add to the weekly newsletter,
send us an email so that it can be featured. We love hearing from you and it’s your newsletter!
CHAMPING AT THE BIT
Pictures speak a thousand words but don’t quite show the level of organisation that went into a seamless and successful night. Well done to all involved, for the behind the scenes work, those who volunteered on the night and of course those who turned up with pins and passion ready to run.
Our organisers demonstrating that work and play really do mix.
Well done Dame and Ellie, our 5000m club champions of 2024!
Many numbers, more athletes. What a night!
WEEKEND ROUND UP
In all disciplines and in multiple countries, there have been some inspiring performances from all sections of Kent AC this week. So give it up for:
The Kent AC Juniors, who were represented at the National Champs this year by Harry Clough (207th), Lucas Stickland (188th), George Searle (132nd) in the U15 boys, and Tallulah Jones (83rd) in U15 girls. It was good running conditions on the day – breezy, fresh and sunny – but a tough course with long grass and gradual undulating hills which sapped runners’ energy throughout. It was harsh to watch some of the leading pack of elite athletes collapsing close to the finishing line after pushing it to the max. The whole team performed brilliantly and we saw strong performances all round. Huge congrats to Vic Buck for representing the seniors too!
Mack Atanda, winner of the Kent Champs U13B 75m hurdles with 13.24s. Close behind was Zac Murray with a PB of 13.94. Well done!
Mark Crabtree, who completed the Richmond marathon in 3:01:19.
Dan Hallas, who swam the English Channel, supported by David Devlin and Ian Mizen. Incredible and true teamwork too.
Ivona Gongolova, who in her quest to complete the SuperHalf series, ran the Copenhagen Half in 99:18mins. Will Brown completed in 89:14. Skol!
Che Compton, for coming 95th at the Sydney Marathon in 2:39:07, making it a very g’day indeed.
Chris Greenwood, who posted an epic 15:09 and Phil Sanders just a touch behind in 16:10 at Friday Night Under The Lights.
Emily Murray, who not only won the triple jump at last week’s English Masters in Corby with 8.95m and won the W35-50 category, but has also broken 5 Kent AC club records this year with a long jump of 4.07m and high jump of 1.35m. Keep ’em coming, we are in awe!
PINK IS THE NEW BLUE
Get ready to don the pink hi-vis vests as we will be doing a takeover ay Peckham parkrun on Saturday 28th September.
We are looking to fill the roster so please sign up here, and remember you can always run first too!
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.
If you wish to propose any change to our rules/constitution or a major change to club policy, this must be submitted in writing before 30th October. This will enable it to be included in the calling notice to all members and the agenda and all accompanying papers, which will be sent out in early November.
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
Juniors co-secretary: to assist Anne Hepple in managing the juniors set-up
Kit manager: to coordinate the ordering and distribution of Kent AC vests and other kit
A big thanks to all for their hard work over this and previous years.
If you are interested in any of these, or wish to contest any other role, please write to and your email will go to the incumbent who will happily tell you what their job involves. If you wish to stand, please let know before 30th October so it can go in the agenda.
A 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
LONDON MARATHON CLUB BALLOT
If you failed to get a London Marathon place, you have a second chance!
The club hopes to have a couple of places available (we haven’t been informed of how many yet) 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.
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
ON THE ROAD AGAIN
Autumn relay season is about to kick off in two weeks time with the Southern Road Relays at Rushmoor Arena at Aldershot on Saturday 21st September.
Entries for the Southerns have been filed and teams will be finalised shortly.
Look out on WhatsApp groups for final teams, order and travel details or speak to your team captain! (Chris B for men, Alexa P for women).
If you missed out on signing up for the Southerns, or if you want two bites at the apple, it’s not too late to state your availability for the Nationals, which will be, as usual, at Sutton Park on Saturday 5th October – sign up sheet here. Teams are of 6 for the men, with each leg running around 6km and 4 for the women with each leg running 4.3km.
JOIN THE PROGRAMME
We’re excited to offer a *free 10-week 5k training program for 10-15 of our adult members, regardless of your current running level. Whether you’re aiming to break 20 minutes, set a new personal best, or simply regain some speed, this program is designed to help you reach your goals whist complementing your existing training.
You’ll be part of a supportive group, with fellow members cheering you on every step of the way, both in training and on race day. It’s a great chance to push yourself and achieve something special with the encouragement of others.
*In return for the coaching, we kindly ask that you consider giving back to the club in the future whether that’s by volunteering at a club event helping with gate duty, or making a small donation.
Your support helps keep our community thriving.
Key Details
• Target Race: The programme will culminate in a specific target race(s), which could be a parkrun, cross-country race, or open meet.
• Focus Areas: Running technique, drills, speed work and one-on-one coaching.
• Coaches: Led by Rowan Crichton and an additional coach (TBD).
• Inclusivity: Open to runners of all genders, ages and speeds.
Schedule
• Duration: 10 weeks
• Start Date: Saturday 28th September – Saturday 14th December
• Weekly Group Sessions: Saturdays, 10:00 – 12:00 (Suspended on Saturday 12th October and 9th November for Surrey League XC)
• Locations: Various local spots, including the track
Programme Structure
1. Initial Assessment: Conducted in Week 1 to tailor individual programmes.
2. Weekly Group Sessions: Focused on various aspects of running, with expert guidance.
3. Individual Programmes: Personalised plans issued to guide your daily and weekly training.
Registration
Participation is on a first-come basis. Register your interest here.
Contact Information
For any questions, please reach out to Rowan Crichton at .
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
September
21 – 6/4/3 Southern Stage Road Relays, including Vets (V40/V50/V60) Relay Championships – Aldershot
28 – Volunteer takeover Peckham parkrun
October
5 – 6/4/3 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
12 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon
November
2 – National XC Relays – Mansfield (tbc)
9 – Surrey League XC – tbc
23 – South of Thames Junior XC – West Horsley Place, Guildford
26 – AGM – BHT
30 – Kent Vets XC Championships – Central Park, Dartford
December
7 – SEAA Masters XC Championships – Horspath, Oxford (tbc)
14 – Christmas Party – Jubilee Ground, Catford
14 or 21 – South of Thames Senior XC – Sommerhill 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
March
30 – 12/6 Stage Road Relay Championships – Milton Keynes
April
12 – 12/6 National Road Relays – Sutton Coldfield
25 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
TRACK, TRACK, TRACK
Buy your track pass here.
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
Please see a helpful FAQs guide here
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.
Session times are:
Monday: 07:00 -15:00
Tuesday – Thursday: 1300 -1700
Friday: 07:00 – 15:00
Saturday – Sunday: 09:00-15:00
Price:
Adult resident: £2.70
Adult non resident: £3.00
Junior (U16): £1.30
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
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
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Kent AC · 90 Montacute Road · London · London, London SE6 4XQ · United Kingdom
