This has been one of those off weekends, with not much happening in between action-packed Saturdays. Many Kent runners took the opportunity to get decent long runs in at the start of their marathon block, in unexpectedly mild conditions.
The next big event is the Southern Cross Country Championships at Beckenham Place Park next Saturday, one of the highlights of the season, not just because of its fearsome reputation – the men’s race is close to 15k – but also because for a few years it’s been on our doorstep. At the moment we’re looking at nearly 100 Kent entries, across seniors and juniors, with strong prospects of team medals.
If you’re not running then do turn up to watch and support, and if you can then please volunteer to marshall – these events only happen through the willingness of people to help out.
Please note that membership renewals are available now, and annual or monthly track passes can be purchased as usual from the sumup store.
Also please note that the club has agreed to take on more track time on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1700. The purpose is to expand our junior training capacity due to high demand, but the track is open to all members at this time.
EVENT CALENDAR
January
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:00 – 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.
Kent AC athletes were out in full force this weekend as XC season got back underway. The club headed to both the Kent County Championships at Brands Hatch and the Surrey League at Mitcham Common. Both races, delivered a big statement from Kent: depth, consistency and a growing confidence across the squads. With the women now firmly in contention for a Surrey League podium and the men showing they can compete right across both teams, this first club fixture of 2026 sets us up brilliantly for the final few races of the cross country season, with more on both below.
Away from the mud, a number of juniors took to the indoor track at Lee Valley on Saturday for the Southern Indoors. Huge well done to Vwede Fydoro-Okiti who came 5th in the U13B 60m, and Tess Hepple who claimed Bronze in the U17W 60m hurdles. Meanwhile, in considerably sunnier climes, Joe English ran a rapid 29:19 at the Valencia 10K, winning Wave 1. Kurt Wilkinson and Rob Elphick also impressed with strong runs of 30:48 and 32:46 respectively; a huge well done to all.
A few more standout performances deserve a mention: Vic Cartwright placed 4th female and 1st VW40 at the Temple Newsam Ten in absolutely Baltic conditions, while James Bates went one better on the endurance scale by completing the Country to Capital 43-mile ultra today — Wendover to London in 9 hours 10 minutes. Incredible stuff.
For something a bit less gruesome, the next social run will take place on Wednesday evening (14th Jan). Meet at Brockley Brewery (Brockley) just before 7pm. Any belongings can be left there during the run!
Lastly, Caroline Ford won the club draw for January! We still have several numbers available, for £6 per month or £72 per year, for a chance to win £250 each month. Get in touch if you’d like to enter.
BIG GRIT AT BRANDS HATCH
While the bulk of the club headed to Mitcham for the Surrey League, a small but determined Kent contingent took on the notoriously tough Brands Hatch course on the same bitterly cold day. With bitter temperatures, relentless hills and exposed track making it feel even colder, those who toed the line there were nothing short of heroic.
On the men’s side, Kent was represented by a lone warrior, Michael Gibson, who produced a strong and disciplined run to finish an impressive 53rd in a deep field – a very strong performance.
In the women’s race, Vic Buck flew the Kent flag with real distinction, charging home in a superb 12th place against high-quality opposition on one of the regions most demanding courses.
A massive shout out to your junior representatives too. Bravo to Olly Buck on 3rd place at Kent Country Champs in the U20s, and commiserations to Luke Roderick who led U15 to halfway before an ankle injury.
With small numbers but big performances, Kent AC left their mark at Brands Hatch.
FINDING OUR FEET AT MITCHAM COMMON
Mitcham Common greeted us with classic cross-country conditions for our first club fixture of 2026: a crisp, still winter’s day with temperatures peaking at just 4°C. With firm ground in places and plenty of mud and undulation elsewhere, it was a proper test for everyone as both our women and men delivered another hugely positive set of results in the Surrey League.
Women’s race: Seventeen Kent women took to the start line, giving us two complete teams with five to score. Despite a few late withdrawals through illness and injury, the squad produced a superb collective performance, with the A team finishing 4th and the B team 5th – a result that puts us firmly in the hunt for a Surrey League podium overall.
We had five women inside the top 50, narrowly missing out on a sixth, and led once again by the ever-reliable Amy Clements, who was first Kent runner home in an outstanding 11th place. Iona Cousland continues to grow in strength and followed up with a brilliant 26th, while Clare Elms, having sacrificed Kent Counties to support the team here, was rewarded with 36th overall and third Kent scorer. Elinor (Lin) Skinner ran another strong race to finish 48th, with Molly O’Connor rounding out the scoring five in 53rd.
That scoring combination secured fourth place for the A team, while our B team also impressed. Claire Oxlade (72nd) led that group home, backed up by Fran Buss (105th), Genevieve Blanch (108th), Karina Box (114th) and Sally Urquhart (124th). A special mention goes to Sally, who turns up to every race with enthusiasm and energy, ran a fantastic race and was rightly delighted to make the scoring team.
Behind them, Kent’s depth was on show with Suze Spalding, Jo Wint, Johanna Mott, Ronnie Haydon, Sarah Young, Annabelle Hadlow and Zoë Gaffen all battling through the cold and tough conditions to bring home a strong day overall for the team.
Men’s race: Thirty-two Kent men lined up for the later start, with ten to score for each team, and the club delivered a strong Surrey League performance to keep both teams well within podium contention. The A team finished 4th, while the B team produced the club’s highest placing of the day in an outstanding 3rd – a remarkable achievement in a highly competitive field.
A number of runners were making their first Surrey League appearances of the 2025/26 season, including Rhys Doherty (66th), Ben Clarke (85th), Tom Mower (95th), Neil Phillips (180th), Rob Wells (303rd) and Will Ross (251st), all getting stuck in on a demanding course.
At the sharp end, Owen Hind led Kent home with a superb 9th place, closely followed by a standout run from Nick Acfield, who recorded his highest ever Surrey League finish in an excellent 12th. They were backed up by Nicholas Torry (20th), Isaac Parker (37th), Robert Sesemann (44th) and Max Nicholls (46th), forming a strong front pack that kept Kent in the mix throughout.
There were also some excellent supporting performances further down the field. James Ewing (119th) continues to take brilliantly to cross country, along with Dominic Le Mare (124th). Alex Harris (128th) – fresh from his recent Parkrun PB – and Rob Laing (129th) all showed strong, consistent form over the mud and hills.
With both men’s teams finishing inside the top four, and the B team reaching the podium, it was a hugely encouraging day for Kent.
A day to build on.
RUNNING WITH HAT-TITUDE
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
We only have two hats left on the online shop – act ASAP if you want to snatch one of these up. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
January
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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 that time of year when the weather puts paid to half-baked new years resolutions, but that didn’t stop over 40 Kent AC members descending on Hilly Fields parkrun on Saturday morning in the frost… that’s true grit for you. With more cold weather due, keep an eye out in WhatsApp groups for updates on track conditions and any closures.
If this weekend is anything to go by, 2026 is already shaping up to be a good one! A huge well done to Iona Cousland for running a lightning fast 1.24.45 at this morning’s Victoria Park half marathon. And congrats to Harry Tivnen for running 15:16 at the NYE podium 5k in Battersea Park a few days ago.
Next week sees a return to regular XC scheduling with the Surrey League at Mitcham Common. Details to be posted later this week, but do check out details below to purchase a bobble hat if you didn’t get one in your stocking this year.
Wishing everyone at Kent AC a very happy, healthy, fast and fun 2026! If you’re looking for new things to try out this year, why not consider volunteering to help with the club? And as ever, if you have a story or success to share, then please do email in – we love to hear from you and celebrate with you.
JOE APPIAH AWARDED MBE IN NEW YEAR HONOURS LIST!
On behalf of everyone at Kent AC, a tremendous congratulations to our very own Joe Appiah, who has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List for services to Sport, to Public Health and Public Service!
You can read more about Joe’s contribution to the Kent AC community, athletics and coaching, and to Prostate Cancer UK here and listen to Joe’s story here. Both are an incredible testament alongside Joe’s World, European and British records for 60m and 100m hurdles.
In Joe’s own words, “I am extremely proud. To be recognised for helping others, is truly overwhelming and humbling. Arriving in the UK from Ghana when l was nearly 15 years old, growing up in a council estate, being bullied at school and in my area for my deepest African accent and the way l looked. I left school with limited qualifications and with over 100 unsuccessful admin/filing job applications as a 17-year-old boy. Nobody gave me a chance. My first job was cleaning my local church floors before working as a post delivery and messenger in the city. Sports gave me confidence and a platform to shine. I am absolutely thrilled to receive this recognition for my resilience, determination, consistency and positivity in everything l do. Keep believing, keep working hard, dreams do come true. I am delighted to be recognised for health awareness, sports achievements and 36+ years in the civil service performing various roles.”
Thank you, Joe, for all you do and a very well done indeed!
Joe on starting duties last week at Sutcliffe
RUNNING WITH HAT-TITUDE
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
The hat, and other essential Kent AC merch, is available via the online shop. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
January
10 – Kent County XC – Brands Hatch
10 – Surrey League XC – Mitcham Common
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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.
This past week, if fitness, family and feasting have allowed, has been an eventful one for Kent AC runners. It started on Tuesday, on the track, as all good things do, with the annual pre-Christmas Paarlauf (that’s German for Pair-Run), as organised by the fabulous Adrian. It consists of a series of eye-balls-out efforts, this year it was 400s, in nicely matched pairs. Teams are arranged to include the right balance of speedsters and the more sedate amongst us. Everyone agreed the session was a great success.
‘Let’s get to work’
Thursday was Christmas Day, so Kent AC runners left their chocolate coins half eaten, jammed on a Santa hat (and in some cases the full beard and red coat combo) and dashed to their nearest parkrun. Absolute scenes:
After which, it was back for sprout/spud/stuffing duties and an extra-large refuel in order to get round the Boxing Day walk and the next parkrun on Saturday. Some people chose to seek out a year’s end race in picturesque settings. Some, in fact, chose to run very fast indeed and win their age group. Step up, once again, Victoria Cartwright, who absolutely smashed the Chevin Chase:
The youngsters were also out in force today; scoring loads of PBs and inspired by our very special Kent AC hurdler, Joe Appiah, on starting duties.
Meanwhile, over in Buntingford (Hertfordshire) Sam Wilcock ran ten hilly miles in 65.07 and John Gilbert went north to the Ribble Valley, there to run the 10k in an astonishing 30:17, which takes him to fifth all time on the British V45 10k rankings. Bravo!
Finally cast your mind back to last Sunday (which honestly feels like a century ago) and the many Santa dashes that took place on that day. Dan Lineham certainly won’t forget his unofficial ‘first finisher in a Santa hat’ achievement. We hope he enjoyed his flaming pudding on Thursday:
NYXC RESOLUTIONS
See you on 10 January 2026, newly resolved to run the next round of Surrey League.
Before that, entries are due in by 6 January for the Southern Cross Country Championships at Beckenham Place Park on 24 January. As in previous years, the club requests a £5 contribution from all senior runners in order to confirm their place. If you’d like to enter please contact Owen Hind or Gen Blanche and pay the contribution at the club store.
Also, make sure to get your entries in for the Surrey League Cross Country races in both January and February.
RUNNING WITH HAT-TITUDE
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
The hat, and other essential Kent AC merch, is available via the online shop. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
January
10 – Kent County XC – Brands Hatch
10 – Surrey League XC – Mitcham Common
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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 was another impressive weekend for the club, squeezing in a few more races before Santa arrives. While some of you sensibly stayed warm, others were out doing what we do best: running hard, preferably in the cold, the dark, or both.
Friday night saw a group head west for the Battersea Park Friday Night Under the Lights 5-miler. Jonathan Collier led the way with a seriously strong 8th place in 23:41 after leading out early on, and was backed up by solid efforts from Matt Speed (26:23), Jake Herrera (26:46) and Joe Jenkinson (31:08).
Saturday morning then belonged to the juniors at Bromley parkrun. Luke Roderick was clearly in the Christmas spirit, finishing in 1st place with a PB of 15:43 – the 12th best U15 parkrun of all-time. He was followed by strong runs from George Searle (16:31), Dylan Sandhu (17:07) and Lucas Stickland (17:41), rounding off an excellent morning and proving that the future of the club is both fast and alarmingly organised before 9am.
Rounding out the weekend was the South of the Thames Championships – more on that below.
Looking to next year, entries are due in by 6th January for the Southern Cross Country Championships at Beckenham Place Park on 24th January. As in previous years, the club requests a £5 contribution from all senior runners in order to confirm their place. If you’d like to enter please contact Owen Hind or Gen Blanche and pay the contribution at the club store.
Also, make sure to get your entries in for the Surrey League Cross Country races in both January and February.
Finally, a very Merry Christmas to everyone in the club. A reminder that Hilly Fields parkrun is on on Christmas Day, so if you fancy starting the festivities the right way, that’s your plan sorted. And if you’re heading to any other parkruns or getting out for festive runs, please do send in your photos – Kent AC kit strongly encouraged! Now, on to the cross country…
CRISP SKIES, CHRISTMAS TIES: PODIUM JOY FOR SOUTH OF THAMES STARS ON WIMBLEDON COMMON
The South of Thames Championship Race on Wimbledon Common was the perfect blend of cross-country grit and Christmas cheer. Held on Saturday the 20th of December, the 7.5 miles (and some) wound its way over the undulating trails, with a strong turnout that felt all the more impressive given the time of year. Wimbledon Common put on its best festive face: crisp blue skies, low winter sun, and conditions so kind that gloves were firmly declared optional.
On the women’s side, there was plenty to celebrate. Amelia Petitt had a superb run, charging through the field to finish 6th place in the women’s race. Her performance set the tone for the rest of the team, who followed up with determined runs and well-timed surges over the testing course. Their combined efforts earned the women’s team a fantastic 3rd place overall—a well-deserved podium to wrap up the year.
The men’s team brought their own festive sparkle to the competition. In the men’s race, Noah Armitage-Hookes delivered a standout performance, racing strongly throughout to secure 3rd place overall. With solid backing from his teammates across the field, the men’s squad claimed an excellent 4th place in the team standings. It was the kind of collective effort that makes winter racing special: muddy legs, tired lungs, and big smiles at the finish.
With an early Christmas lunch now firmly calling and no time to dive deeper into the many individual stories and heroics out on the course, the headlines say it all: a strong turnout, sparkling skies, brilliant individual performances from Amelia and Noah, and top-4 team finishes for both the women and the men. A festive day out at Wimbledon Common, wrapped up with results to be proud of and plenty of seasonal spirit.
See you in 2026 with rested minds for the next round of Surrey League on the 10th of January.
All smiles pre-race!
RUNNING WITH HAT-TITUDE
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
The hat, and other essential Kent AC merch, is available via the online shop. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
January
10 – Kent County XC – Brands Hatch
10 – Surrey League XC – Mitcham Common
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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.
Behind every PB, race team and competition that the club achieves, convenes or hosts is a hard working volunteer. We’re so lucky to have brilliant coaches, officials, organisers, committee members, and volunteers who make our club and community so great.
So this week, we are delighted to celebrate the recipient of the Kent AC Presidents Award for 2025: Anne Hepple. Thank you, Anne, for your humungous and incredible contribution to running the Juniors committee and section over the last few years. Our Junior section continues to grow in numbers and success – it’s brilliant to see so many young people growing passions and skills for athletics, which you’ve made possible. As Anne hands the baton over to Jane Treasure (who has been working with Anne for the last few years) and Lucy Atlee, a big thank you and round of applause to Anne!
THE MOST RUN-DERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR
It’s not been all mince pies and parties for some of our members who have worked hard and raced fast this week!
At Carshalton yesterday, a number of our juniors ‘sleighed’ at the 60m ‘training race’, bringing home triple PBs! Well done to:
Vwegba Fydoro-Okiti, aged 14 and competing in the U17 category in his first ever 60m for debuting in 7.57!
John Flack, aged 17 and competing in the U20 category for lowering his PB by 16 hundredths of a second to to 7.49!
Jack Jones, aged 17 and also competing in the U20 category, for slicing 15 hundredths of a second off his PB to 7.13, and qualifying for the England indoor Championships 60m, in addition to already being qualified in the Long Jump!
Over in Victoria Park yesterday, Teresa Murphy and Ivona Gongolova lit up the half marathon, finishing in 88:19 and 1:45:27.
Today in sunny Malaga, Calum Fraser dashed to a 2:39:18 marathon PB, and Narciso Lopez Guerrero smashed the 4-hour barrier to.a 3:59:18! Meanwhile in the half marathon, Mark Crabtree smashed out a 77:06.
Well done to Joe English for an incredible 29:42 performance in the Telford 10km! Our calculations make that 2nd on the U20 10k rankings this year – wow! Absolute kudos to Amelia Pettitt for an incredible time of 35:37 too!
At the Lesnes Abbey 5 miler, we had three runners in the top 10- Rob Harvey, Sam Wilcock and Ian Elwood who made it to a podium place of 3rd!
Finally, a huge high five to Elyse Jenkins who smashed her PB and her goal of a sub-19 5km with a blazing fast 18:41 at Bromley parkrun yesterday. Happy news on a sad day for us as this is Elyse’s last week bringing her happy energy to track nights before she heads back to sunny Australia! Well done Elyse- we’ll miss you but you’ll always have a home with Kent AC!
Please do let us know by /" target="_blank">email or in WhatsApp groups if you have news to share with the club! We love celebrating successes and fun events that people do but need your help to share!
Laughing all the way in Lesnes Abbey
RUNNING WITH HAT-TITUDE
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
The hat, and other essential Kent AC merch, is available via the online shop. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
December
20 – South of Thames Senior Champs 7.5 mile XC (including Club XC Champs) – Wimbledon Common
January
10 – Kent County XC – Brands Hatch
10 – Surrey League XC – Mitcham Common
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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.
Feliz Navidad! Alongside our more local Kent Christmas celebration, it’s all things Spanish this week with Kent ACers/Kenters/Kentish/Kentalians/Kentch/Kentiards (what do we call ourselves?) competing from Valencia to Lanzarote to Melbourne.
On top of that, we have news on our lucky winners for the club draw and the balloted London Marathon places which could be revealed now but will instead be left tantalisingly out of reach until the end of this segment in the Newsletter. A bit like one of those pesky clickbait links you see on naff websites.
Valencia soleada where the beer is always cold, the streets are lined with orange trees, the air has a warmth into the winter months, the sun doesn’t set until 5.40 on the winter solstice and the birthplace of paella. Forget all that as it’s also host to what must be the fastest and deepest in quality marathon in the world. 14 Kentiards made their pilgrimage to the Valencia Marathon this year. Remember for every time and PB there are hours upon hours over many weeks, months and even years that build up towards these fast times. These months of stacked training are often done alongside juggling jobs, families and the demands of every day life. It’s genuinely incredible the dedication, consistency and love that our runners and community members have for the sport. From internationally acclaimed athletes to those who get out a few times per week, you’re all fantastic.
Without further ado let’s get into the results. Coming in at 7th place (yes that’s right) and firmly placing himself amongst Britain’s greatest ever athletes is our very own golden Alex Yee! Perhaps you’ve heard of him? He’s the guy that our running track is named after. Alex ran a blazing fast PB of 2:06:38 placing him 2nd in Britain’s mens all time fastest marathons. Coming in hot was previous 2nd claimer Phil Sesemann in a new PB of 2:07:11 who jumps ahead of Steve Jones’s 40 year old run of 2:07:13 in the Britain’s rankings to continue being 5th fastest man over the distance. Next up was Ladywell, Dulwich Park and Waterlink Way regular Ben Clarke in a blazing fast 2:23:51. New to the club and exciting prospect Rhys Doherty arrived next with 2:27:16. Double Threshold setter and Dulwich Local Legend Chris Busaileh came in with a new PB of 2:27:44. South London’s most popular man Harry Tivnen paced himself to 2:40:22. Giving it his all was Philip Woodford-Smith in 2:44:19. Cycle touring star Joseph Yee debuted with 2:44:34. Joseph Wilkes ran a great 3:04:05 and Alex Robbins pushed the himself with a PB of 3:09:42. Ed Osbourne hit 3:26:40 with Beki Hilton Hannis 3:28:15, James Hilton 3:38:25 and John Bell coming in at 4:20:10.
Flying south west, Santa Vic Cartwright holidaying in Lanzarote decided that the barraquitos (I don’t know, Google said it’s popular in the Canary Islands) and the papas arrugadas (again Google) weren’t enough so she made a late entrance to the Lanzarote Half Marathon all Santa’d up. She came 2nd lady and 1st with a Santa beard intact at the end in a time of 1:40:18. Well done!
Flying significantly further south west we had Cam Dockerill representing all of us Kentalians down under in the Warringal Parklands Parkrun, Australia with a speedy 15:38 fresh off the plane. What a way to check the legs still work after 22 hours of flight time.
Now it”s the time that you’ve all been waiting for; the results for the club draw and London Marathon ballot.
Well done Ian Ellwood on winning the club draw.
I hope you’re not on Santa’s naughty list and that he answers your letters for carbon plated shoes James Streatham and Rob Laing because you’re both going to be running the London Marathon as our club place winners!
RUNNING WITH HAT-TITUDE
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
The hat, and other essential Kent AC merch, is available via the online shop. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
December
20 – South of Thames Senior Champs 7.5 mile XC (including Club XC Champs) – Wimbledon Common
January
10 – Kent County XC – Brands Hatch
10 – Surrey League XC – Mitcham Common
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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.
There was no big club fixture this weekend, but Kent runners found many races to compete in, mostly on the roads, but also with some xc success.
Kent men (and one woman) sent a strong crew up to Leeds for the Abbey Dash 10k, and came back with a couple of top 10 finishes and several PBs. Noah Armitage-Hookes knocked 2 minutes off his PB to come 8th in 30:16, while Cam Dockerill sliced 16s off his for 9th in 30:23. Nick Acfield was 12th, 4 minutes under his previous time in 30:29. Other finishers included Owen Hind (30:49), Kurt Wilkinson (31.01 PB), Isaac Parker (31:16 PB), Matt Speed (32:12 PB), Kieran Fitzpatrick (37:57) and Molly O’Connor (39:10 PB)
Also on the roads, but closer to home, several runners completed the BMAF 5k championships, with the women doing particularly well – Clare Elms was 1st VW60, Lin Skinner was 3rd VW50 and Karen Samuel was 2nd VW65 in the Southern Counties region. The three of them combined to get a silver in the VW45 category, despite the fact that two of them are over 60!
Over at Horsenden in West London there were the SEAA Masters Cross Country championships – Nicky Hayes and Ronnie Haydon were 2nd and 3rd in the VW60 category while Vic Cartwright was 4th in the VW40 event.
And furthest afield was Pete Lighting, running the Elche/Alicante marathon in 2:46.
Closest of all was the newest addition to the SE London parkrun list – Greenwich Peninsula, on the Thames Path that most of us know very well. 925 runners turned up to the inaugural run yesterday, a dozen of them from Kent (including the first finisher Alex Hamlet) We would suggest waiting a few weeks before trying this one out, until the numbers settle down a bit.
A final reminder that tickets for the Christmas Party next Saturday are still for sale – there will be food, drink, music and fun and games, including the draw for the club’s London Marathon places.
XMAS PARTY TICKETS!
🎄*Kent AC’s Christmas Party*🎄
We’re only a few weeks away from one of the highlights of the Kent AC calendar.
Get your tickets now for the season’s finest soiree!
Tickets are £15 including an arrival drink and buffet. Plus-ones very welcome.🥂
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
The hat, and other essential Kent AC merch, is available via the online shop. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
December
6 – Kent AC Christmas Party – The Honor Oak
20 – South of Thames Senior Champs 7.5 mile XC (including Club XC Champs) – Wimbledon Common
January
10 – Kent County XC – Brands Hatch
10 – Surrey League XC – Mitcham Common
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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.
Kent AC were double booked this weekend, with two XC races taking place within a hour of one another. The Kent Vets XC Championships was held in Dartford with fantastic results for us across the board. Read on for a full race report.
Meanwhile, at the South of the Thames Junior race in Lloyd Park, Olly Buck took one for the team as our solo representative for the senior men, battling over the hills and mud to score fourth place overall and first U20 male. Well done Olly!
The women’s team also had a successful day, with our cross country queen, Aisling Ahern, crossing the line fourth in the women’s race. Ellie Freeden, Claire Oxlade and Elyse Jenkins made up the scoring team to bring home a silver medal. Gen Blanch, Sally Urquhart, Jo Wint and Anna Delis finished close behind with post-race grins!
We’re hoping for more silverware at the senior race in Wimbledon next month, so make sure to sign up if you can run.
The Croydon crew
Earlier this week at the annual AGM, Amy Clements, Clare Elms and Nick Ostrowski were announced as our newest honorary members. Congratulations to you all, very well deserved!
Before you read on…
We’re looking for an additional editor to join our team for a monthly newsletter write-up. No skills required, just someone who would enjoy writing once a month on a Sunday afternoon. Drop us an email at commsmgr@kentac.org.uk.
Also, a reminder of the Christmas party in two weeks at The Honor Oak. A perfect opportunity to swap the lycra for something more sparkly, so don’t miss out! If you are planning to attend, please book your tickets as soon as possible.
ALL ROADS LEAD TO DARTFORD
Well this year the powers that be decided that the race would be two weeks earlier than normal, perhaps chasing better weather? However on the day we had the traditional cross country cold windy drizzle that we have come to associate with this fixture. No spirits were dampened though and our vets showed up for our grand day out (all be it wearing rather a lot of layers)!
We endeavoured to cover all age categories (despite the SoT clash) and also to fulfill our marshalling and volunteer duties. It is that time of year where bugs are going around and we enjoyed the traditional saturday morning team shuffle that we have become so adept at during the year.
First race Mens V50, unfortunately we were unable to complete a team and defend our title due to injuries and colds. However, there were great runs from Che C (5th), Steve McGrory (21st) and Paul McCrone (30th). Steve had flown in from Ireland to make sure he could make Dartford.
In the second race, we had the men’s 60-69, 70+ and the womens 65+. Our M60 team scooped bronze with Roger B (5th), Len (21st), Luke (22nd) and Stephen Scobie (22nd).
The M70s went one better, picking up team silver John Barron (7th), Julian (8th), Andy G (12th). In the women’s race, we had our stalwarts Zoe and Annabelle doing us proud with 9th and 10th place finishes. No team prize as you need 3 to score, but next year we know we will have another in that age category and we expect to win our first team prize for the 65+ women. How exciting!
The third race of the day was all the remaining women’s categories and a very strong field – V35-44, V45-54, V55-64. After a skillful reshuffle, we had exactly 3 runners in each category enabling us to win team GOLD in all 3 categories. V35 – Lin, 2 (V50), Vic C, 3 (V40), Nesrin 5 (V40), V45 – Vic Buck 4 (V50), Teresa 5, Suze 17 (V50), V55, Clare1 (V60), Nicky 7(V60), Ronnie 10th (V60) (not last by any stretch!).
Fourth Race Mens V40, Kent AC were 3rd team behind very strong Blackheath & Bromley and Cambridge Harriers teams. Hopefully, we’ll be able to get back to our winning ways next year. Barny (4th), Rob L (10th), Jonathon T (13th), Alex H (14th), Pete L (15th), Jonathon B (22nd), Michael G (35th), Samuel W (36th), Tim S (41st), Stephen J (48th), Khawaja (57th).
The day then ended brilliantly with us doing our part in the clear up and then moving past the rest of the field to the malt and shovel pub where we enjoyed post match glory, refreshments and rather lovely food.
Well done to all who ran and thank you to all who pitched in any way – Kent Vets Rule.
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
The hat, and other essential Kent AC merch, is available via the online shop. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
November
29 – SEAA Masters XC – Horseden Hill, Greenford
December
6 – Kent AC Christmas Party – The Honor Oak
20 – South of Thames Senior Champs 7.5 mile XC (including Club XC Champs) – Wimbledon Common
January
10 – Kent County XC – Brands Hatch
10 – Surrey League XC – Mitcham Common
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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.
Some really important notices, announcements, celebrations and successes this week, so please grab your drink of choice and read closely!
This week sees our Annual General Meeting – Tuesday, 20:30, Blythe Hill Tavern. More details below, but the most important request to each and every person reading this is to please join, whether in person or virtually. Your voices, votes and quorate attendance really matter.
We normally spend our weekends painting various towns navy…. but it’s that time of year to paint the town red! Our Christmas party is only three weeks away, so if you’re thinking about coming, now is the time to get your ticket and start getting festive! Don’t miss out!
If you read on, you’ll read all about this week’s Surrey League match, which Kent AC hosted. None of this would have been possible without the incredible organisation and hard work of none other than Ken Pike. Which is fitting, because earlier this week, the inaugural Track and Field Inclusion Awards, backed by UK Athletics, recognised Ken Pike’s leadership and contribution to the sport, so often behind the scenes, by awarding him the Unsung Hero Award. You can read more about the award ceremony here. Thank you, Ken, for all you do for Kent AC and for our sport!
There were a handful of athletes who didn’t make it to Beckenham yesterday, who did our vest proud in a host of other ways this weekend! A huge well done to:
– Lin Skinner for running a 10km PB of 38:27 in Brighton, and a possible England qualification to boot! Wow!
– Clare Elms for coming 1st V60 at the British and Irish Masters Cross Country International in Leeds – incredible, as ever!
– Adam Paterson for coming 4th overall and 1st V40 at the Tweed Valley 65km Ultra…brilliant!
– The Brampton Carlisle 10 miler representatives, who collectively came 2nd team. Awesome running by Nick Acfield in 50:30, Rob Sesemann in 50:31, Ben Clarke in 51:20, James Boustead in 58:15, and Alex Clarkson in 58:59. Smashed it!
Same time next week for a recap of South of the Thames XC and the AGM?
AGM – THIS TUESDAY
A big reminder that the club’s Annual General Meeting will take place this week – starting at 20:30 on Tuesday 18th November at the Blythe Hill Tavern.
It’s important that as many people turn out as possible, so come along after training for a drink and refreshments (which will be provided). You can also join virtually through a link which will be sent out this week.
20 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS
🎄*Kent AC’s Christmas Party*🎄
What are you waiting for? XC season is well underway, Mariah is crooning, the John Lewis advert is streaming, the mince pies have been on shop shelves for at least 6 weeks already… whether you’re already in full tinsel and glitter, or whether you’re bah humbugging your way until 1st December… don’t hang around because our annual Christmas Party is now just a few weeks away. Get your tickers now so as not to miss out on the season’s finest soiree!
Tickets are £15 including an arrival drink and buffet. Plus-ones very welcome.🥂
On Saturday the 15th of November it was Kent AC’s home winter cross country race at Beckenham Place Park. Perhaps the combination of short commute, home turf, and time of year meant a huge turn out of runners from the Club. The senior women had 33 runners – possibly a record turn out for Surrey League? While the senior men had 66. Huge thank you to everyone for sporting the navy vest to front the hills and represent. The race is well summed up by Joe English who said; “The first lap felt a bit too good, the second lap felt a bit too bad.”
So how did we do?! Honestly, we smashed it! The senior women A team finished 5th place with Herne Hill Harriers, Belgrave and G&G taking 1st, 2nd and 3rd rank. The B team finished 3rd behind Belgrave and Herne Hill Harriers. Amy Clements proved her strong form remains consistent being first Kent runner home in an impressive 8th position. Amelia Pettitt wasn’t far behind in 12th. Aisling Ahern, Iona Cousland and Molly O’Connor powered through the course as a team, finishing a close 42nd, 45th, and 49th. Special mention to Iona Cousland whose performances get better every week. Completing the B team to score we had Ellie Freeden (57th), Hayley Cherry (62nd), Claire Oxlade (70th), Lara Bromilow (77th) and Elyse Jenkins (78th). The women’s team included a strong line up of new mums (I can count 7) showing us that we can both set the foundation for the next generation of Kent runners while bringing out some stellar performances! There are many on this results board we haven’t mentioned who respectively ran incredible races so bravo to all runners. Reaching a number of 33 runners really speaks to the culture of ‘having a go’ in our club. A culture to be celebrated.
The senior men A team (first 10 to score) finished 2nd place overall behind Belgrave and ahead of Thames Hare and Hounds. While the B team finished 3rd only 12 points behind Herne Hill Harriers (Belgrave 1st). This is an outstanding result considering the men’s individual winner Jake Kavanagh of Holland AC is competing regularly with the likes of Olympian Josh Kerr. Jonathan Collier was first Kent runner home in 6th position only two places ahead of Joe English in 8th. Two in the top 10 is outstanding. Joe came all the way from Bristol and set the bar very high for himself with this race being his Senior debut! Next up was Nick Torry (22nd), Cam Dockerill (26th), Dame Dibaba (27th), Isaac Parker (33rd), Max Nicholls (45th), Matt Speed living up to his name (48th), Olly Buck (62nd) and Robert Elphick 68th completing the 10 to score in 68th position. Calum Fraser, who almost never misses a XC race, led the B team scorers in 92nd position. Barnie Day (93rd), Rob Laing (99th), James Ewing (123), Alex Harris (124), Dominic Le Mare (126), Ian Ellwood (127), Phil Sanders (130), Samuel Dames (131) and Ian Cooper (140). As Ian Elwood put it, “it was fast, it was muddy, it was horrible, and really good fun.”
There are quite a few people behind the scenes who put many volunteer hours into making this race day happen. From the runners point of view the day ran brilliantly and we want to give a huge thanks to all the organisers, time keepers, marshalls, and many more who helped to make it happen.
Thanks as ever to the XC Captains:
Gen Blanch, Parris Williams, James Boustead and Owen Hind
RUNNING WITH HAT-TITUDE
Tis the (XC) season for BIG bobble hats, the essential piece of kit for all that chilly pre-and post-cross country hanging about when the next cup of tea seems very far away.
The hat, and other essential Kent AC merch, is available via the online shop. Message Sarah Young on the WhatsApp group for collection.
EVENT CALENDAR
November
18 – AGM – Blythe Hill Tavern
22 – South of Thames 5 Mile XC – Lloyd Park
22 – Kent County Vets XC – Central Park, Dartford
29 – SEAA Masters XC – Horseden Hill, Greenford
December
6 – Kent AC Christmas Party – The Honor Oak
20 – South of Thames Senior Champs 7.5 mile XC (including Club XC Champs) – Wimbledon Common
January
10 – Kent County XC – Brands Hatch
10 – Surrey League XC – Mitcham Common
24 – Southern XC – Beckenham Place Park
February
7 – Surrey League XC – Wimbledon Common
21 – National XC – Sedgefield, County Durham
April
11 – National 12 Stage Road Relay – Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham
26 – London Marathon
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online.
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:45
Thursday 18:00 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £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.
