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Bridging the gap


96

Bridging the gap

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 15/06/25<!–



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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
   15 June 2025      


We’re definitely out of running season now, as Kent members find other ways to get their fix, some taking to their bikes for long rides, and some going further afield – the A group were on tour in Germany, scaring the locals with their fast pace and bare chests, and dominating the local parkrun – a bit unfair to put up an Olympian against a parkrun field, but Phil Sesemann took it easy in just 16 minutes, with Kent (and Kent-adjacent) filling the first 6 places.

Almost as far, but more impressively, Claire Oxlade and Josh Lennard-Jones ran a half marathon from Denmark to Sweden – the Oresund Bridge Half – Claire in 96:43 and Josh in 81:19. Definitely a spectacular run!

We did have some serious competition among the juniors, with County Schools Championships being held this weekend. While we do not have all the results as yet – the various associations are erratic in their reporting – we can say that Kent juniors won some silverware, including gold medals, which we’ll report in full next week. Well done to all the juniors who competed!

The next events coming up are the Dulwich Relays on Wednesday and the SAL next Sunday. The teams for the relays have all been sorted now – the organisers changed their policy this year so that the number of teams per club is limited – but do go along on Wednesday night to support if you can, it’s a fun event and there may be some drinks afterwards.

We are always keen to have participants at Southern Athletic League fixtures, whatever your discipline. Next week’s fixture is at Woodford Green, if you’d like to take part please enter your name on this sheet and join the SAL Whatsapp group. We also have a need for officials, so if you’re up for a bit of light effort in a sunny field in between watching athletics, please sign up for that here.

And finally, a warning about potential scammers – our members have been specifically targeted by phishing scams requesting payment for SEAA activities. If you’re at all unsure about this sort of mail, please contact the secretary or treasurer by the usual methods.


RON HALE OPEN


We will be hosting our next event at the Ladywell track on Saturday 26th July – the Ron Hale Open, which will have multiple track and field events.

These include the Sprint Hurdles, 100m, 300m, 400m and 1500m, and the Long Jump and Triple Jump.

. Entries are open to everybody, both KAC members and members of other clubs (provided they have EA membership) – sign up here.


EVENT CALENDAR


June
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 –  Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
2 – Track Social
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – Late Summer Meet 
20 – SEAA 6/4/3 Stage Road Relays @TBC

October
4 – ERRA 6/4 Stage Relays at Sutton Park


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

Glad all over


96

Glad all over

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 08/06/25<!–



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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
    8 June 2025      


It was Assembly League week, so the club’s usual Thursday session took place in the glorious expanses of historic Crystal Palace Park, with its inaccurate dinosaurs, beleaguered sports complex, exhibition centre remains and associations with that momentous FA Cup win. More on Kent AC’s performance in this summer evening park run below.

Other results this week include at the VAC 5k in Battersea Park, where 1st was Rob Laing running for GB in 16:20
3rd was Sam Evans, 16:22
first VW45 was Vicky Boyle in 19:21.
On Saturday 7 June Owen Hind went to Paris and ran his chausettes off at the Fast5000 track race: 14:25.

There were races in town and out today (Sunday 8 June). Over at Mile End, fabulous mile times were achieved by Clare Elms (5:28.72) and Peter Range (5:38.84, a PB)

Lin Skinner was third woman the High Elms 10K trail, a very hilly run to end a very hilly week.

Iona Cousland was third woman at Southend half marathon in 86:56 and Joe Vis was second man in 73:21

Vick Buck ran 01:28:26 at Swansea Half and came 6th in her age group:


Charlotte and Andrew Sugden also enjoyed/endured the coastal views and brutal headwind in 1:49 and 1:48 respectively:


Coming up this week, we have Wednesday’s social run (meet at the track at 7pm but note that the toilets won’t be open and no bag drop, the run is about eight kilometres and ends in the pub, as all good runs do).
There’s still time to join in with the in the Southern Athletic League in a fortnight: it’s on 22 June at Woodford, sign up here 
Looking further ahead, the Ron Hale Open is back on July 26: there’s time to brush up your sprints and springs for hurdles, long jump, 100m, 300m, 400m, and 1500m.


NOTES FROM ASSEMBLY


We had 50 runners take part in the Assembly League on Thursday. Big thanks to Richard Elliot who has the unenviable task of making sure everyone signs up on the spreadsheet on the evening, and picks up the correct number. More on this later, here’s the top-ten results and the all-important pictorial evidence:
First home was Jake Simmonds in 15:41; third Olly Buck, 16:14, fourth Jim, 16:15, fifth Matt Speed 16:19; eighth Calum Fraser 16:47 and ninth Robert Laing, 16:48.
First woman was Ellie Freeden in 19:14; second woman Claire Oxlade in 19:52 and third woman was Lin Skinner in 19:57, These three were quickly followed by Caitlin Bradley 20:16;Victoria Buck 20:24; Nesrin Sabanci, 20:27 and Victoria Cartwright 20:38.



A word of warning from the Assembly league organisers: you must sign up on the spreadsheet on the night, and wear a valid number corresponding to that spreadsheet. Do not use old numbers from previous weeks as it causes an almighty headache for the volunteers trying to get the results out.


JUNIOR NEWS


SEAA U13/U15/U17 Championships, Crystal Palace

As always our junior athletes did brilliantly.  They battled truly miserable weather and race delays on Saturday and a much more pleasant sunny Sunday to do themselves proud.

And a huge congratulations everyone and to our medallists Tess (bronze in 80mH) and Zac (bronze in HJ and 75mH) 

  Kent AC Early Summer Meet

Summer track season is in full swing and last Thursday saw the Alex Yee Arena hosting an open meet and Kent AC club champs for three distances. It was gratifying to see so many juniors and seniors taking part and to welcome friends from other local clubs to our oval office too. 

An enormous amount of work goes into organising these events, from officials to timekeepers (which we always need more of!), volunteers to count laps, ring bells and hand out bib numbers, to putting all the logistics in place to make the event run safely and seamlessly.
A huge thank you to Dan A and the team for your work.
For more information and results, see the Juniors newsletter, sent out every week.


OBITUARY


 

Don Beech 1932-2025

The club has recently learned of the death of Don Beech (1932-2025), who was a member in the 1950s and 1960s.  He was a respectable standard middle-distance runner with an 800m pb of 1.57 and holder of numerous club championship titles.

He later emigrated to Australia from where we heard about his death from his son, who also provided copies of cuttings about his athletics exploits.

But Don had a parallel athletics career to his time with us, representing his country at four as were called then Deaf and Dumb Olympics.  For those, like me, ignorant of this championship, it’s now called the Deaflympics and has been held every four years since 1924, making it the longest established multi-sport event after the Olympics.  Don was more than just a competitor, taking home a gold in the 800 and silver in the 400 from Brussels (1953), silvers in the 800 from Milan (1957) and Helsinki (1961); his final champs was at Washington (U.S.) four years later.  He was also undefeated in all British deaf championships.

Like most of us he also had a family and a career but his full life shows disability is no barrier to achievement and success.

Len Reilly


WHO’S IN THE MONEY?


Alf Regan, that’s who.
The bonus ball in our monthly prize draw was 56, and the lucky winner in this rollover month was Alf, who pockets £500.
Fancy being in with a chance? We now have plenty of available numbers if anyone wants to get in on the action.
The monthly bonus ball draw is a club fundraiser where the winning number wins £250, the cost is £6/month


EVENT CALENDAR


June
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 –  Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – Late Summer Meet 
20 – SEAA 6/4/3 Stage Road Relays @TBC

October
4 – ERRA 6/4 Stage Relays at Sutton Park


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

Call It What You Want


96

Call It What You Want

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 01/06/25<!–



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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
1 June 2025


On the week that marked the start of meteorological summer, Crystal Palace’s victory parade, and Taylor Swift owning all her record – the real hot take of this week was of course the early summer open meet on Thursday, which saw the club champs for 200m, 800m and 3000m. A huge thanks to all those involved behind the scenes and on the day to put on such a great event, which you can read all about below.

This Tuesday (3rd June) sees the first summer social of the year – stick around after your training session for drinks, nibbles and a chance to hang out with all groups.

Then on Thursday (5th) June, there will be the next Assembly League fixture at Crystal Palace. 19:30 start time, meeting by the Brown and Green cafe beforehand to collect numbers and all-importantly to fill in your number into the spreadsheet! 


CHAMPING AT THE BIT


Summer track season is in full swing and this Thursday saw the Alex Yee Arena hosting an open meet and Kent AC club champs for three distances. It was brilliant to see so many juniors and seniors taking part and to welcome friends from other local clubs to our oval office too. 

An enormous amount of work goes into organising these events, from officials to timekeep (which we always need more of!), volunteers to count laps, ring bells and hand out bib numbers, to putting all the logistics in place to make the event run safely and seamlessly. Well done and thank you to Dan and the team for your work!

Here are the results for each event and some photos which capture the grit and determination throughout. The full album is here, with all credit to Laurie. 


 



   


EVENT CALENDAR


June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 –  Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – Late Summer Meet 


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

The (Cape) Wrath of Kent


96

The (Cape) Wrath of Kent

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 25/05/25<!–



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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
25 May 2025



First up, this Thursday we have our second track event of the summer, with races over 200m, 800m and 3000m. We have heard suggestions that these races are for the ‘pros’ or very serious runners only – this isn’t the case, all races are open to anybody (age limits permitting for the juniors) So if you want to set a time in an event you haven’t run before, or beat a PB, or just do it for fun, then sign up below.

We’re at the time of year when runners find more adventurous places to challenge themselves. Last week saw a few Kent runners doing various distances in Snowdonia. Undoubtedly the runner of this week – in fact it took him all week – is Alex Morales.

Alex completed the Cape Wrath Ultra, a fearsome 8 day 400km (250 mile) race in the far north west of Scotland, ending this afternoon at the Cape Wrath lighthouse after 65 hours of racing! It was his 3rd attempt and first success, his previous two having been curtailed by injury and illness.  A huge achievement that it’s exhausting just to contemplate.


Alex with lighthouse

Closer to home, 3 Kent runners completed the South Downs 50k today – Gian Valentini in 4:43, Alex Robbins in 5:07 and Ash Green in 5:58. Last week Pierre Flasse did the Jurassic Coast 100k in 16:06 hrs. 


Ash, Gian and Alex

More conventionally, James Stewart completed the Edinburgh marathon in 4:19, and Alex Gillespie ran the Folkestone 10k in just under 40 minutes.

Last Sunday dozens of our juniors competed well in the KYAL at Bromley against tough opposition – results and report below.

And in midweek, several Kent teams did the fun annual relays in Beckenham Place Park, picking up a few medals – full report below.

There’s another fun relay event in Dulwich Park in a few weeks, entries are being submitted soon, so if you want to take part – the format is teams of 3, 1 mile laps each – then add your name to the sheet here. You don’t need to have a team, just sign up and you’ll be slotted into one.

We have lots of events – running and social – filling out the calendar in the summer months, so do check down below. The first track social – just a few drinks at the track clubhouse – is on Tuesday 3rd June. See you there!


KYAL


Last Sunday several dozen juniors competed in the second Division One fixture of the season, having gained promotion last year. Against very tough competition, Kent came a highly creditable 6th out of 8, only a few points from 4th and 5th, and we remain in 6th after two fixtures, above the relegation zone!

Highlights of the afternoon include Reuben Smith gaining 3rd place in both the U15 200m and LJ, Evie Atanda 2nd in the U13 70mh, Georgia Fox 2nd and Holly Hales 1st B string in the U13 1000m walk, Thomas Brain 3rd in the U13 800m, and Zacharias Murray 2nd in the U13 75mh and HJ.

The secret to doing well in these team competitions is not just having outstanding athletes, but it’s filling out the card with scoring performers in every event. Kent managed to field athletes in 85 out of 86 events, which is tremendous, and a great improvement on last year, for which credit goes to the coaches. Thanks too to Kent-supplied officials, mostly willing parents, who also contributed maximum points to the total.

And well done to all junior athletes who competed, especially if doing non-favoured events. Roll on the next fixture, in Medway on July 5th!


BECKENHAM RELAYS


On Wednesday, 21st May, 32 Kent AC runners proudly represented the mighty blue vest at the 2025 Beckenham Relays, reports road captain Jake Simmonds.

Kicking things off on the first leg were Joe Vis for the men’s team, Claire Oxlade for the women’s, and Ellie Freeden for the mixed team. The hilly 2.6-mile lap was no problem for Joe, who got the men’s team off to a great start, finishing 3rd on leg 1 with a time of 13:19. The next blue vests to appear over the final hill were Ellie Freeden (15:47) and Molly O’Connor (15:59). Ellie and Molly were in a close battle coming back into the park, but Ellie’s experience on the course showed as she pulled away in the closing stages. Samuel Wilcock (16:24) and Claire Oxlade (16:29) followed soon after. There were also great runs from Hugh, Lesley, Alice, Elyse, Fran, and Anna Delis—to name just a few who ran leg 1.

Rob Sesemann and Amy Clements both showed their class on leg 2. The local legend of Beckenham Place Park, Rob, demonstrated how experience on the course pays off. Running 12:49, Rob clocked the fastest male leg of the day and brought the mixed A team into 1st place in the category, and into the overall top 10. Up next was Amy Clements—who has recorded top 10 women’s parkrun times on multiple occasions this year. Amy ran an impressive 14:36, potentially setting a women’s course record, and brought the women’s A team into 1st place in their category. Robbie Smith (14:24) and Flo Ingram (16:35) kept the men’s A team and women’s B team in medal contention. Chris Schofield, Aaron Ben-Joseph, Tim Church, Nesrin, and junior Lucas Stickland also ran strong leg 2s.

Leg 3 saw several Kent runners hold firm to secure team medals. Jake Simmonds (13:20) held off Blackheath & Bromley to win gold in the mixed team category. Ellie, Rob, and Jake combined for a total time of 41:56. Alexa Parker (15:42) ran a controlled leg to bring the women’s A team home in the gold medal position. The women’s team has now won the Beckenham Relays team title four years in a row—well done Claire, Amy, and Alexa! Also in medal contention were the women’s B team: Molly, Flo, and Victoria Cartwright. Fresh off her Chislehurst Half Marathon win last Sunday, Victoria (17:37) held off a strong challenge from Blackheath & Bromley’s Jennie Butler to secure a double podium for the women. This is the second time in four years that Kent AC’s women have had two teams on the podium.

Thanks also to Sally, Jo Cartledge, Ben Hope, Dame Dibaba, Rupert Bedford, Rebecca Palser, and Ewan Willis. A big shoutout to Joe Vis, who ran another strong leg (13:59) on leg 3 to help complete the men’s D team. Special mention to the Mixed B team, made up of juniors Alice Hales, Lucas Stickland and Ewan Willis, who came 40th out of 157 teams.

Results Summary

Men’s Teams

A Team – 7th
B Team – 36th
C Team – 31st
D Team – 15th

Women’s Teams

A Team – 1st
B Team – 3rd
C Team – 42nd
D Team – 62nd
E Team – 97th

Mixed Teams

A Team – 6th overall / 1st in category
B Team – 40th overall / 12th in category

Full results here.


KENT AC EARLY SUMMER MEET 


Sign up for our first Club Championships of the year!

When?
The evening of Thursday 29th May
 
Where?
Our home track, The Alex Yee Ladywell Arena

Which events?
200m (U11+)
800m (U13+)
3000m (U17+)

How do I enter?
Following feedback in previous years of wanting results to be official (i.e., on powerof10) and also to use photofinish (especially requested by sprinters, but not exclusively), we have gone to the trouble of getting an event license from UKA and hiring photofinish. This comes at a cost so whilst we have tried to keep entry fees at a minimum we are taking entry fees. Please enter at OpenTrack using the link below:

https://data.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2025/GBR/kent-ac-esm/

Can my friend in another club enter?
Per our licensing, this is an Open Meeting. Kent AC members get discount on entry, however.

I don’t want to compete, can I still come?
We would love for you to come spectate and/or help out, please see our volunteer sheet and add your name here and how you can contribute.

Will there be refreshments?
We will set up a water station but to keep the budget and organising to a minimum, refreshments will only be available for officials and volunteers. Please feel free to bring your own.


EVENT CALENDAR


May
29 – Early Summer Meet – Alex Yee Ladywell Arena

June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 –  Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – Late Summer Meet 


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

Summer of SAL


96

Summer of SAL

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 18/05/25<!–



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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
18 May 2025


Track season is officially upon us and we’re here for it. The first SAL of the year took place yesterday in Dartford, read on for the full report.

But first, let’s kick off with a summary of results from this week.

A quick mention for David Mohring, who completed the Grand Raid Ventoux by UTMB in 22 hours and 26 minutes. The race consisted of 77 miles, 6,000 metres of ascent including an ascent of Mont Ventoux. Kudos to you!

It was a successful evening at the VAC 5 miler on Tuesday in Battersea Park, with Clare, Lin and Vic cleaning up the medals for their age categories!

Barny Day – 27:39
Patrick Nation – 28:45
Sam Taylor – 29:38
Clare Elms – 31:34
Lin Skinner – 32:38
Vic Buck – 33:24


The winning glow

We had a group of members travel to Snowdonia to compete in various ultra-trail races, not for the faint-hearted!

100 miles
Alex Hamlet – 27:30:43

100k
Arejeet Nag – 23:35:44
Nick Moss – 23:36:45
James Bates – 25:24:29

50k
Zuzana Nemeckova – 11:43:50

Moving onto results from today:

Chislehurst Half 
Congratulations to Vic who won the women’s race!

Phil Sanders – 81:07
Vic Cartwright – 93:54
Alex Robbins – 1:40:18
Lesley Mentink – 1:54:29


All smiles

Hackney Half
George Russell – 81:33
Rory Mahon – 83:34
Stuart Jennings – 86:53
Peter Range – 90:05
Sally Urquhart – 97:35
Will Wright – 1:59:48

Manchester Great Run
Owen Hind – 31:01
Cam Dockerill – 31:12

The second KYAL fixture took place today. There was a huge turnout at Norman Park in Bromley with around 40 youth athletes as well as a handful of coaches and officials. Nip and tuck the whole way in the 8-team First Division with Kent floating around in the middle positions for most of it – too close to call on where we finished!
Full results to follow next week.

Make sure to sign up for our next club event, the Early Summer Meet, taking place on Thursday 29th May. If you won’t be participating but still want to be involved, we are looking for volunteers to help! Register using the links further down in the newsletter.

Lastly, we would like to remind all members to please be aware of your surroundings when wearing headphones or carrying your phone near the track (Ladywell Fields). 

Onto the Beckenham Relays next Wednesday and we’re rooting for gold! A full report will be included next Sunday.


A DELIGHTFUL DAY IN DARTFORD


The first SAL of the year started off strong yesterday in Dartford. Thank you to all who participated and enjoyed a fun day of athletics in the sun! We had a great mix of debutants and seasoned athletes, with everyone pitching in for the club. It was great to see everyone getting into the SAL spirit, gaining PB’s, developing skills and trying new things — and helping out by swapping around bibs and handcrafting K’s and KK’s! Many athletes competed in more than one event, and we had brilliant officials, volunteers, parents and coaches that helped on the track and supported athletes. 

Alex making a steeple look graceful

We had some very tough competition – Dacorum, Cambridge Harriers, and Dartford in particular. No one was put off though, fantastic work by everyone including our many SAL debutants! We finished 4th (of six) in our match thanks to everyone’s determination. 

We had a really inspiring day of competing from our junior athletes; stand-out performances are Phoebe Folarin winning the High Jump on her debut with 1.54 and two great runs in the 400m from John Flack (50.1) and Louis Holley (52.6). Our sprint squad saw some great PB’s for Robin Clarke in the 100m and 200m and Jeffrey Senoo in the 200m. Tyler Woode dug deep to deliver for both the 4×100 and 4×400 relay teams.

Our senior athletes shone bright with Amy Clements winning the 3000m after lapping the field, Dame winning the 5000m in style, and Mo Elmi taking top spot in the 1500m and running a blistering 4x400m leg. James Bowler continues to be our multi-event legend doing 7 out 8 field events, and co-captains Alex, Jo and Sofia powered through 5 events each.


The golden duo

Special mention to the Hugh and Lucas Stickland father-son double act, with Hugh scoring points in Triple Jump and Lucas stepping up to debut on the 3000m Steeplechase with a great run.

Relay teams ended the day – we had one 4x100m team and two 4x400m teams. These are great fun to finish the day, so please stay if you can and we can travel home as a group and get some drinks. 


Girl power

For those interested in the SAL, join the WhatsApp group:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/EQdOV4pQVFB0ajDIfe2cvh

Mark your calendars for the June, July and August dates! Next up is Woodford on Sunday 22 June.
Dates and Venues are listed on each tab of the spreadsheet:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wt4XhW98Vowr3sCmhneGMvpnyd7PZ5uVSk7UPX2B0Q4/edit?gid=0#gid=0

A bit about SAL: we are in Division 2 (of 3) and there are 3 matches left this year.
Every Kent AC member with an EA number can enter. You enter by adding your name to the spreadsheet or messaging a captain or coach. Enter your name now for any event on any of the dates.

Our team number is K for A-string and KK for B-string. You will see these letters go next to your name on the sheet once we select the scorers. If there are more than 2 athletes for an event you will be a non-scorer, which means you pick up a number and wear that. Everyone gets to race, whether or not you’re scorer! 


 

Sofia, Jo and Alex
SAL Captains


KENT AC EARLY SUMMER MEET 


Sign up for our first Club Championships of the year!

When?
The evening of Thursday 29th May
 
Where?
Our home track, The Alex Yee Ladywell Arena

Which events?
200m (U11+)
800m (U13+)
3000m (U17+)

How do I enter?
Following feedback in previous years of wanting results to be official (i.e., on powerof10) and also to use photofinish (especially requested by sprinters, but not exclusively), we have gone to the trouble of getting an event license from UKA and hiring photofinish. This comes at a cost so whilst we have tried to keep entry fees at a minimum we are taking entry fees. Please enter at OpenTrack using the link below:

https://data.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2025/GBR/kent-ac-esm/

Can my friend in another club enter?
Per our licensing, this is an Open Meeting. Kent AC members get discount on entry, however.

I don’t want to compete, can I still come?
We would love for you to come spectate and/or help out, please see our volunteer sheet and add your name and how you can contribute.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_W6luxTR_0PDVjrmZK9msuxPXCYHY5X18w5PYJEmLtc/edit?pli=1&gid=0#gid=0

Will there be refreshments?
We will set up a water station but to keep the budget and organising to a minimum, refreshments will only be available for officials and volunteers. Please feel free to bring your own.


COMMITTEE POSTS – CAN YOU HELP?


Due to the stepping aside of some incumbents at the AGM later this year, we have a need to find people to fill those roles.

Treasurer
David Devlin, who has been our Treasurer for several years, is stepping down in November, which creates a vacancy. If you feel you can fill this role, please contact David or Phil Marsden for more details of what is required. 

The Treasurer is a statutory role, and also required by EA. While not technically demanding, the job requires time commitment and some experience of financial roles and accounts preparation. 

If a suitable candidate is not available, then Phil Marsden will step into the role, creating a vacancy for Club Secretary.

Club Secretary
The Club Secretary is also a statutory role, and involves coordinating much of the administration of the club. Again, it requires commitment, and availability to attend committee meetings. Contact Phil Marsden if you’re interested in knowing more about the role.

Coaching Secretary
The Coaching Secretary provides oversight and coordination of the coaches at the club. They should be a current UKA coach. A full role description is available from Phil Marsden or Dan Ansell.

Membership Secretary – shared role
The club is looking for somebody to assist the current Membership Secretary in her role. The duties are not onerous, but would require attendance at committee meetings.

If you’re interested in any role, or if you’d like to get involved with club administration in any way, please contact Phil.


OFFICIAL REQUEST


Athletics events, whether on the track or the roads, cannot take place without officials and volunteers. While Kent AC has an impressive number of active members, we have too few qualified officials. This means that we’re limited in the events we can host, and are not pulling our weight in the ones we attend where we’re required to supply officials.

Two things to emphasise – being an official is not physically or technically demanding, it mostly just involves time spent watching and enabling events.

A quick Q&A about being an official:

How do I start to be an official? 
Initially, do a couple of courses (online or in person) taking a couple of hours, then attend events. Roles for those with little previous experience are undemanding – extra hands are always needed.

What does an official do?
It depends on the role, but it can be anything from monitoring the track or raking a long jump pit to being a timekeeper or overseeing a field event, with sufficient experience. The level of responsibility you have depends largely on what you want to take on and your experience. Certain events cannot take place without the adequate number of officials, or officials at the right level – every field event should have a L2 qualified official, for example.

Is there a requirement for technical knowledge?
Initially very little is required, and is covered by level 1 courses. As you progress up the levels then more knowledge is required, but easily obtained.

If I sign up, does that oblige me to attend all events? 
No, you can attend those that fit your schedule. However, to get to level 2 and beyond, when you’d become more useful, you need to attend a minimum number of events.

Is it possible to participate and be an official?
This can happen, particularly at SALs, if the event schedule allows. If you’ve signed up to participate in a SAL, which may be just one event in an afternoon, consider being an official for some other events while you’re there.

Is there a cost?
All training courses are covered by the club, as well as travel to events. In addition, lunches are usually provided for officials at events.

What officials roles are there?
Field official
Starter
Track official
Timekeeper
Endurance (eg road, cross country)

Bear in mind that for SALs and KYALs you can contribute to the team’s success by being an official – the club gets points for each official as an incentive to supply them.

And you get to spend a few hours watching athletics and enabling events to take place, which is much appreciated. If you’re a parent with a child at a KYAL or a SAL, for example, you might consider helping out with events, whether it’s retrieving a discus or monitoring a relay handover.

In order to put on events ourselves, we need more L2 qualified officials in all disciplines. This requires commitment and time (generally 10 events to get from L1 to L2) – however we wouldn’t want to discourage anybody from contributing who doesn’t want to commit to progressing, all assistance is welcome.

If you are interested in becoming an official, please contact Phil Marsden or Jacqueline Francis to find out more.


EVENT CALENDAR


(Please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)

May
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – Early Summer Meet – Alex Yee Ladywell Arena

June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet 


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

Arena of dreams


96

Arena of dreams

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 11/05/25<!–



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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
11 May 2025



Yee place to be

It was all systems go at the Alex Yee arena yesterday (Saturday 10 May) as club members gathered for the club’s track showpiece, The Ladywell 10,000.
As usual, it was a fantastic event and a chance for runners to test their 10k prowess and have their times rigorously recorded. Results and gallery below

We look forward to seeing as many Kent AC members as possible at the Beckenham Relays, which is on 21st May. Teams of three (female, male, or mixed) will tear around a 4km loop around Beckenham Place Park – it’s always good fun and we normally come home with a good about of gold, silver and bronze ware too. The entries are all in now, but volunteers and supporters are always welcome to make the event go smoothly.  

Finally: we all know that training is important but just as important is contributing to the running, organisation and behind the scenes of the club. If you could lend a hand, some time or brain power for the committee or as an official, we would really love to hear from you. Current opportunities are all below.


TRACK STARS


Sixty runners from clubs all over London and beyond came to test their mettle over 10k at the track yesterday. In warm and sunny conditions, staying hydrated while gunning for a PB was a challenge. Thank you to everyone who raced – and volunteered – to make the event a success.
Read on for stand-out results and a selection of pictures. A full set of results here
There were four races.
 World Master Athletics (WMA) Rules Race 1 
Jamie Harrie (M40) was in the top slot with 39:11.29
Second was Julian Gevers (V55) who ran 39:34.8, a season’s best.
Third cam Robert Harvey (M45) in 39:47.54
Victoria Cartwright (W40) was first Kent AC woman over all, and fourth in this race with an official time, and PB,  of 40:00.31 (although her watch swore it was a sub-40!)
WMA Race 2
Patrick Nation (M40) was third, in 35:50.72
Freddie Ungoed-Courtney (M35) was fourth, in 37:36.55
Adrian Lobb (M50)  was fifth in 37:38.48
UKA Rules Race 1
Samuel Evans (M40) came in first in 34:45
Nick Ostrowski (M40) was third in 36:45.32
Jamie Lawson Murray was fourth in 37:23.66
UKA Rules Race 2
Calum Fraser was third in 33:23.92
Dave Morgan (M40) was fourth in 34:00.55 (first in his age category)
In fifth was Samuel Dames in 34:06.11 (PB)

Across all the race, first overall was Charlie Brisley (NEB) who ran 29:53.36
second overall was Killian Lynch (BRIPH) with 32:42.19
and third overall was our Calum Fraser with his 33:23.66
Thank you, Laurie Oliver, for these wonderful pictures (good to see Clare Elms demonstrating a non-partisan approach to athlete-watering):



 

 


JUNIOR RESULTS


Kent County Championships Julie Rose Stadium Ashford 10/11 May 

Kent AC juniors were out in force with loads of PBs and podium places: congratulations to all of them.  

Tess Hepple 300mH U17W 46.30 PB Bronze Medal 

Tess 80mH U17W 11.66 Gold Medal 

Tess Triple Jump U17W distances not yet published Gold Medal 

George Searle 1500m U17M 4:42.97 PB 

Luke Rodderick 1500m U15B Heat 4:45.86 PB, FINAL 4:36.26 PB 

John Flack 400m U20M 50.94 SB Bronze Medal 

Claudia Rigby 75mH U15G Heat 13.15, FINAL 15.2 

Vwegba Fydoro-Okiti 100m U15B Heat 12.02 PB, FINAL 11.78 PB Bronze Medal 

Cheryl Adjadi 200m U15G 27.63 PB 

Louis Holley 800m U17M heat 2:0249 PB, FINAL 2:00.23 Silver medal 

Matteo Watson 800m U17M 2:19.08 PB 

Shekinah Acheampon Triple Jump U15G distances not yet published Bronze Medal 

Dylan Sandhu 1500m steeplechase U17M 4:46.07 Bronze Medal 

Phoebe Folarin High Jump U17W 1.54m Silver Medal 

Esme Aye-Kumi Triple Jump U17W distances not yet published 

Apologies to our 3 fantastic triple jumpers the jumps are not on Roster yet.


RUNNING SOCIABLY


May’s social run is on Wednesday 14th. We meet at the track at 7pm, organise ourselves into two or three pace groups depending on numbers, then run 7-8k, after which there’s an option for drinks at the Catford Bridge Tavern. It’s not planned as a coached session, so there’ll be an element of self organisation. All are welcome. 
Bear in mind that the track is not open for bag storage or use of toilets on a Wednesday, so, please come ready to run. 


SOUTHERN ATHLETICS LEAGUE


Next Saturday, 17 May is the first SAL of the season, in Dartford. 
The team captains this year are Jo Cartledge, Sofia Contain and Alex Harris, there’s plenty of SAL chat on the various WhatsApp groups and travel plans to Dartford will be sent out in good time. To sign up, the spreadsheet can be found here
 


COMMITTEE POSTS – CAN YOU HELP?


Due to the stepping aside of some incumbents at the AGM later this year, we have a need to find people to fill those roles.

Treasurer
David Devlin, who has been our Treasurer for several years, is stepping down in November, which creates a vacancy. If you feel you can fill this role, please contact David or Phil Marsden for more details of what is required. 

The Treasurer is a statutory role, and also required by EA. While not technically demanding, the job requires time commitment and some experience of financial roles and accounts preparation. 

If a suitable candidate is not available, then Phil Marsden will step into the role, creating a vacancy for Club Secretary.

Club Secretary
The Club Secretary is also a statutory role, and involves coordinating much of the administration of the club. Again, it requires commitment, and availability to attend committee meetings. Contact Phil Marsden if you’re interested in knowing more about the role.

Coaching Secretary
The Coaching Secretary provides oversight and coordination of the coaches at the club. They should be a current UKA coach. A full role description is available from Phil Marsden or Dan Ansell.

Membership Secretary – shared role
The club is looking for somebody to assist the current Membership Secretary in her role. The duties are not onerous, but would require attendance at committee meetings.

If you’re interested in any role, or if you’d like to get involved with club administration in any way, please contact Phil.


OFFICIAL REQUEST


Athletics events, whether on the track or the roads, cannot take place without officials and volunteers. While Kent AC has an impressive number of active members, we have too few qualified officials. This means that we’re limited in the events we can host, and are not pulling our weight in the ones we attend where we’re required to supply officials.

Two things to emphasise – being an official is not physically or technically demanding, it mostly just involves time spent watching and enabling events.

A quick Q&A about being an official:

How do I start to be an official? 
Initially, do a couple of courses (online or in person) taking a couple of hours, then attend events. Roles for those with little previous experience are undemanding – extra hands are always needed.

What does an official do?
It depends on the role, but it can be anything from monitoring the track or raking a long jump pit to being a timekeeper or overseeing a field event, with sufficient experience. The level of responsibility you have depends largely on what you want to take on and your experience. Certain events cannot take place without the adequate number of officials, or officials at the right level – every field event should have a L2 qualified official, for example.

Is there a requirement for technical knowledge?
Initially very little is required, and is covered by level 1 courses. As you progress up the levels then more knowledge is required, but easily obtained.

If I sign up, does that oblige me to attend all events? 
No, you can attend those that fit your schedule. However, to get to level 2 and beyond, when you’d become more useful, you need to attend a minimum number of events.

Is it possible to participate and be an official?
This can happen, particularly at SALs, if the event schedule allows. If you’ve signed up to participate in a SAL, which may be just one event in an afternoon, consider being an official for some other events while you’re there.

Is there a cost?
All training courses are covered by the club, as well as travel to events. In addition, lunches are usually provided for officials at events.

What officials roles are there?
Field official
Starter
Track official
Timekeeper
Endurance (eg road, cross country)

Bear in mind that for SALs and KYALs you can contribute to the team’s success by being an official – the club gets points for each official as an incentive to supply them.

And you get to spend a few hours watching athletics and enabling events to take place, which is much appreciated. If you’re a parent with a child at a KYAL or a SAL, for example, you might consider helping out with events, whether it’s retrieving a discus or monitoring a relay handover.

In order to put on events ourselves, we need more L2 qualified officials in all disciplines. This requires commitment and time (generally 10 events to get from L1 to L2) – however we wouldn’t want to discourage anybody from contributing who doesn’t want to commit to progressing, all assistance is welcome.

If you are interested in becoming an official, please contact Phil Marsden or Jacqueline Francis to find out more.


EVENT CALENDAR


(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)

May
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet

June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet 


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

Victorious Park


96

Victorious Park

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 04/05/25<!–



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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
4 May 2025


T-1 week until the Ladywell 10,000 and it’s all go. 

First up, a reminder to sign up for the Beckenham Relays, which is on 21st May. Teams of three (female, male, or mixed) will tear around a 4km loop around Beckenham Place Park – it’s always good fun and we normally come home with a good about of gold, silver and bronze ware too. The sign up sheet is here, but hurry because entries will be locked in from 7th. 

Next, Thursday evening saw yet another stellar turnout at Victoria Park for the second Assembly League match of the year. It was the hottest day of the year so far, and Kent AC’s men and women came in HOT! Results and report below. 

Finally but most importantly – we all know that training is important but just as important is contributing to the running, organisation and behind the scenes of the club. If you could lend a hand, some time or brain power for the committee or as an official, we would really love to hear from you. Current opportunities are all below.


ASSEMBLY LEAGUE 


This year’s Assembly League so far has a 100% success rate in being on hot and sunny days – and Kent AC’s winning ways are also standing at 100%.

Almost 300 runners resisted the temptation of beer gardens to first race the well-trodden 5.6km loop of Victoria Park, with around 50 from Kent AC.

Matt Speed came in first overall, closely followed by Rob Laing and Dave Morgan in third and fourth place, cementing our pole position for the men’s team. 

Victoria Cartwright lived up to her namesake park by smashing it on the women’s side and finishing fourth overall. Teresa Murphy and Lin Skinner rounded out our scoring women’s team.

Huge thanks to the cheerleaders who came down on the day – particularly Sally, whose bike support was much appreciated by many! 

And well done to those who raced just four days after the marathon! Dedication, madness, or sheer talent – you decide!

See you on 5 June at Crystal Palace for the next one!


 


KYAL


This week’s big focus is a hark back to last week and the successes of the juniors at the first competition of the season in the Kent Young Athletics League – otherwise known as KYAL. It was our first match in division 1 and Kent AC came 6th, which is a brilliant result reflecting the talent of our junior athletes, the dedication of the fantastic coaching team, and the generosity of parent volunteers who stepped in to help out on the day too. 


COMMITTEE POSTS – CAN YOU HELP?


Due to the stepping aside of some incumbents at the AGM later this year, we have a need to find people to fill those roles.

Treasurer
David Devlin, who has been our Treasurer for several years, is stepping down in November, which creates a vacancy. If you feel you can fill this role, please contact David or Phil Marsden for more details of what is required. 

The Treasurer is a statutory role, and also required by EA. While not technically demanding, the job requires time commitment and some experience of financial roles and accounts preparation. 

If a suitable candidate is not available, then Phil Marsden will step into the role, creating a vacancy for Club Secretary.

Club Secretary
The Club Secretary is also a statutory role, and involves coordinating much of the administration of the club. Again, it requires commitment, and availability to attend committee meetings. Contact Phil Marsden if you’re interested in knowing more about the role.

Coaching Secretary
The Coaching Secretary provides oversight and coordination of the coaches at the club. They should be a current UKA coach. A full role description is available from Phil Marsden or Dan Ansell.

Membership Secretary – shared role
The club is looking for somebody to assist the current Membership Secretary in her role. The duties are not onerous, but would require attendance at committee meetings.

If you’re interested in any role, or if you’d like to get involved with club administration in any way, please contact Phil.


OFFICIAL REQUEST!


Athletics events, whether on the track or the roads, cannot take place without officials and volunteers. While Kent AC has an impressive number of active members, we have too few qualified officials. This means that we’re limited in the events we can host, and are not pulling our weight in the ones we attend where we’re required to supply officials.

Two things to emphasise – being an official is not physically or technically demanding, it mostly just involves time spent watching and enabling events.

A quick Q&A about being an official:

How do I start to be an official? 
Initially, do a couple of courses (online or in person) taking a couple of hours, then attend events. Roles for those with little previous experience are undemanding – extra hands are always needed.

What does an official do?
It depends on the role, but it can be anything from monitoring the track or raking a long jump pit to being a timekeeper or overseeing a field event, with sufficient experience. The level of responsibility you have depends largely on what you want to take on and your experience. Certain events cannot take place without the adequate number of officials, or officials at the right level – every field event should have a L2 qualified official, for example.

Is there a requirement for technical knowledge?
Initially very little is required, and is covered by level 1 courses. As you progress up the levels then more knowledge is required, but easily obtained.

If I sign up, does that oblige me to attend all events? 
No, you can attend those that fit your schedule. However, to get to level 2 and beyond, when you’d become more useful, you need to attend a minimum number of events.

Is it possible to participate and be an official?
This can happen, particularly at SALs, if the event schedule allows. If you’ve signed up to participate in a SAL, which may be just one event in an afternoon, consider being an official for some other events while you’re there.

Is there a cost?
All training courses are covered by the club, as well as travel to events. In addition, lunches are usually provided for officials at events.

What officials roles are there?
Field official
Starter
Track official
Timekeeper
Endurance (eg road, cross country)

Bear in mind that for SALs and KYALs you can contribute to the team’s success by being an official – the club gets points for each official as an incentive to supply them.

And you get to spend a few hours watching athletics and enabling events to take place, which is much appreciated. If you’re a parent with a child at a KYAL or a SAL, for example, you might consider helping out with events, whether it’s retrieving a discus or monitoring a relay handover.

In order to put on events ourselves, we need more L2 qualified officials in all disciplines. This requires commitment and time (generally 10 events to get from L1 to L2) – however we wouldn’t want to discourage anybody from contributing who doesn’t want to commit to progressing, all assistance is welcome.

If you are interested in becoming an official, please contact Phil Marsden or Jacqueline Francis to find out more.


EVENT CALENDAR


(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)

May
10 – Ladywell 10000
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet

June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet 


BONUS BALL


Yesterday’s draw was ball 9. There is no winner, so next month will see a rollover of £500.

There are a few numbers available so if you are interested in joining the monthly club lottery, please contact David Devlin. 


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

London Calling! (v2)


96

London Calling! (v2)

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 27/04/25<!–



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Spotify

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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
27 April 2025


Last week at Crystal Palace parkrun your editor bumped into an old member, who had been President, Secretary and newsletter editor at a time when there were almost more roles than members. He said that one year in the 80s Kent had two entrants into the London Marathon, of which he was one – and he was the only one who finished!

Today we had 67 starters and 62 finishers, one of the largest club representations in the race, which shows how far we’ve come as a club. And despite the unwelcome heat, which made the job harder than expected, we had some fine results, including first place in the mass event for John Gilbert, and even a few PBs. Full report below.


Ross Braden and John Gilbert

The London Marathon wasn’t the only event this weekend. We also had the Mini Marathon – much talked about as the foundation for many future champions, including Alex Yee – in which we had several Kent AC juniors – full report below.

We also had our first KYAL event of the year, in Ashford, shorn of some talent taking mart in the mini marathon, but nevertheless our juniors did well. Full results aren’t yet available, there will be a report next week.

There was also a marathon in Manchester, and some Kent runners who couldn’t get a London place ran there instead. Well done to Richard Giles (2:44:30 4th M45), Arejeet Nag (2:50:58 PB), Luis Molina (2:51:56 PB), Caoimhe nic Fhogartaigh (2:57:49 2nd W45), Joseph Wilkes (3:04:32) and coach Ted Aston (5:11:29)


Richard and Caoimhe


Arejeet, Luis and Joe

There were a couple of non-marathon results this week – Jake Simmonds (14:55) and George Copping (16:03) in the Friday Night Under the Lights 5k race in Battersea. And Pierre Flasse ran the Magna Carta half in 1:40:20.

Don’t forget the Assembly League in Victoria Park this Thursday, mails will be sent out about the race. No need to sign up in advance, turn up, grab a number and put name and number on the spreadsheet (link will be provided by mail and whatsapp), run then drink!


LONDON’S BURNING!


On one of the warmest days of the year so far, which put paid to PB ambitions for most, one Kent runner inevitably got most of the media attention – Alex Yee, running his first marathon, indeed his first race longer than 10k – and he performed highly creditably, coming 14th, the 2nd Brit home behind fellow Olympian Mahamed Mahamed, in 2:11:08.


How hard was that?

Apart from Alex, unarguably the Kent performance of the day was by John Gilbert. Continuing his phenomenal 2025, when he’s run a 30:16 10k, a near PB 65:21 in the HM, and a top 10 finish in the Southern XC, he came first in the mass (ie non-elite) start, was 24th overall including elites, and was 2nd VM40, only behind somebody called Kipchoge. It was only 37s short of his PB set 11 years ago in Berlin, and his best time and result in London – he’s twice come 2nd in the mass event.


John Gilbert in full flow

The first Kent woman home was Jennifer Walrod, in 2:58:48, but special mention goes to Victoria Buck, who ran 3:03:15 and was 6th VW50.

There were a few PBs – Matteo Gala in 2:35, Robbie Smith, by 16 minutes, in 2:41, Simon Vaisey in 2:42, Kendal Noctor in 2:43, Gavin Orr in 2:45, Fran Buss in 3:06 and Beth Shakespeare in 3:29.

As ever there were injuries and accidents – Daisy Noble was heading for a good time of around 3:20 when she tripped on a water bottle and banged her head! After an hour or so getting medical attention she got back to the race and completed it!

And a special mention to friend of the club and erstwhile second claimer Jonathan Ratcliffe – he ran Boston marathon last Monday, then London today in 3:02:02 – not bad for a 57 year old!

Full results below:
 

Alex Yee 02:11:08 Fergus Johnson 02:49:21 Benjamin Mitchell 03:14:16
John Gilbert 02:16:26 Luke Rowland 02:49:22 Robert King 03:14:21
Ross Braden 02:21:05 Samuel Dames 02:52:52 Adrian Lobb 03:15:06
Ben Clarke 02:23:56 Andrew Colley 02:54:16 Nesrin Sabanci 03:15:12
Jonathan Collier 02:28:34 Joshua Lennard-Jones 02:55:59 Christiana Kalotihos 03:16:25
Joe Hartley 02:29:48 Jake Herrera 02:56:13 Kersha Dwyer 03:25:24
Harry Tivnen 02:31:11 Neil Phillips 02:56:52 Tim Sharp 03:26:28
Cedric Hauben 02:31:52 Jennifer Walrod 02:58:48 Nicola Cartlidge 03:27:19
Kurt Wilkinson 02:34:19 Frederick Ungoed-Courtney 02:59:07 Beth Shakespeare 03:29:00
Matteo Gala 02:35:03 John Mayock 03:01:58 Stephen Watts 03:29:59
Jonathan Tipper 02:38:56 Victoria Buck 03:03:15 Sally Urquhart 03:30:25
Adam Paterson 02:41:04 Mark Crabtree 03:05:42 Rob Harvey 03:32:51
Robbie Smith 02:41:44 Fran Buss 03:06:05 Kate Fawcett 03:43:54
Simon Vaisey 02:42:48 Katie Good 03:08:55 Nathan Stephenson 03:56:13
Kendal Noctor 02:43:00 Alex Morales 03:09:39 Sarah Young 04:15:08
Calum Macdonald 02:43:51 Alison Thomson 03:10:23 Ronnie Haydon 04:20:51
Gavin Orr 02:45:07 Lyndon Marfell 03:10:25 Heather Castle 04:38:33
William Goldberg 02:45:16 Huw Evans 03:11:52 Daisy Noble 04:50:54
Alistair McMaster 02:47:18 Stuart Beaney 03:12:08 Martin Morgan 05:07:23
Philip Woodford Smith 02:48:15 Nick Edney 03:12:52 Miki Jablkowska 05:47:40
Tom Heslop 02:48:28 John Gilchrist 03:14:05    

Congratulations to everybody who ran!
 


MINI MARATHON REPORT


There was a superb Kent AC Turnout yesterday for the London Mini Marathon, which was of the usual incredibly high standard. Well done to all our competitors! This 2.62 km race came with the highs and lows we’ve come to expect: punishingly early start, free merch (who doesn’t love a Lewisham hoody), and an incredible atmosphere.  And plenty of injuries at the starting line, some nastier than others. Competition can indeed be fierce!  That didn’t stop any of our winners completing the course. 

Extra credit to Martha Parry, who ran in the U17 category despite being only 13, due to an administrative error, and to George, Tom and Dylan, who got great results despite falls.

  Boys under 17
17th London/52nd overall Olly Buck 07:52
54th/116th Dylan Sandhu  08:25
72nd/136th Louis Holley 08:39 

  Girls under 17
84th/149th Lauren Jefferson 11:17 
 85th/150th Martha Parry 11:19 
101st/166th Abigail Wrake 12:32

Boys under 15
41st/103rd Luke Roderick 08:40 
45th/108th George Searle 08:44
86th/151st Matteo Watson 09:15
89th/154th Lucas Stickland 09:18 

Girls under 15 
34th/93rd  Tallulah Jones 09:55 
47th/109th Alice Hales 10:10
112th/177th Alexandra Walker 11:17 

Boys under 13 
33rd/85th Tom Brain 09:16 
77th/135th Joel Spencer 09:47 
90th/149th Edward Pearce 09:57

Girls under 13 
17th/64th Eleanor Davidson 10:00
63rd/120th Daria Gilmore 10:45   

Tremendously well done to all our juniors who took part!


EVENT CALENDAR


(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)

May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
10 – Ladywell 10000
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet

June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet 


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

London Calling!


96

London Calling!

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 27/04/25<!–



Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Spotify

Website


KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
27 April 2025


Last week at Crystal Palace parkrun your editor bumped into an old member, who had been President, Secretary and newsletter editor at a time when there were almost more roles than members. He said that one year in the 80s Kent had two entrants into the London Marathon, of which he was one – and he was the only one who finished!

Today we had 67 starters and 62 finishers, one of the largest club representations in the race, which shows how far we’ve come as a club. And despite the unwelcome heat, which made the job harder than expected, we had some fine results, including first place in the mass event for John Gilbert, and even a few PBs. Full report below.


Ross Braden and John Gilbert

The London Marathon wasn’t the only event this weekend. We also had the Mini Marathon – much talked about as the foundation for many future champions, including Alex Yee – in which we had several Kent AC juniors – full report below.

We also had our first KYAL event of the year, in Ashford, shorn of some talent taking mart in the mini marathon, but nevertheless our juniors did well. Full results aren’t yet available, there will be a report next week.

There was also a marathon in Manchester, and some Kent runners who couldn’t get a London place ran there instead. Well done to Richard Giles (2:44:30 4th M45), Arejeet Nag (2:50:58 PB), Luis Molina (2:51:56 PB), Caoimhe nic Fhogartaigh (2:57:49 2nd W45), Joseph Wilkes (3:04:32) and coach Ted Aston (5:11:29)


Richard and Caoimhe


Arejeet, Luis and Joe

There were a couple of non-marathon results this week – Jake Simmonds (14:55) and George Copping (16:03) in the Friday Night Under the Lights 5k race in Battersea. And Pierre Flasse ran the Magna Carta half in 1:40:20.

Don’t forget the Assembly League in Victoria Park this Thursday, mails will be sent out about the race. No need to sign up in advance, turn up, grab a number and put name and number on the spreadsheet (link will be provided by mail and whatsapp), run then drink!


LONDON’S BURNING!


On one of the warmest days of the year so far, which put paid to PB ambitions for most, one Kent runner inevitably got most of the media attention – Alex Yee, running his first marathon, indeed his first race longer than 10k – and he performed highly creditably, coming 14th, the 2nd Brit home behind fellow Olympian Mahamed Mahamed, in 2:11:08.


How hard was that?

Apart from Alex, unarguably the Kent performance of the day was by John Gilbert. Continuing his phenomenal 2025, when he’s run a 30:16 10k, a near PB 65:21 in the HM, and a top 10 finish in the Southern XC, he came first in the mass (ie non-elite) start, was 24th overall including elites, and was 2nd VM40, only behind somebody called Kipchoge. It was only 37s short of his PB set 11 years ago in Berlin, and his best time and result in London – he’s twice come 2nd in the mass event.


John Gilbert in full flow

The first Kent woman home was Jennifer Walrod, in 2:58:48, but special mention goes to Victoria Buck, who ran 3:03:15 and was 6th VW50.

There were a few PBs – Matteo Gala in 2:35, Robbie Smith, by 16 minutes, in 2:41, Simon Vaisey in 2:42, Kendal Noctor in 2:43, Gavin Orr in 2:45, Fran Buss in 3:06 and Beth Shakespeare in 3:29.

As ever there were injuries and accidents – Daisy Noble was heading for a good time of around 3:20 when she tripped on a water bottle and banged her head! After an hour or so getting medical attention she got back to the race and completed it!

And a special mention to friend of the club and erstwhile second claimer Jonathan Ratcliffe – he ran Boston marathon last Monday, then London today in 3:02:02 – not bad for a 57 year old!

Full results below:
 

Alex Yee 02:11:08 Fergus Johnson 02:49:21 Benjamin Mitchell 03:14:16
John Gilbert 02:16:26 Luke Rowland 02:49:22 Robert King 03:14:21
Ross Braden 02:21:05 Samuel Dames 02:52:52 Adrian Lobb 03:15:06
Ben Clarke 02:23:56 Andrew Colley 02:54:16 Nesrin Sabanci 03:15:12
Jonathan Collier 02:28:34 Joshua Lennard-Jones 02:55:59 Christiana Kalotihos 03:16:25
Joe Hartley 02:29:48 Jake Herrera 02:56:13 Kersha Dwyer 03:25:24
Harry Tivnen 02:31:11 Neil Phillips 02:56:52 Tim Sharp 03:26:28
Cedric Hauben 02:31:52 Jennifer Walrod 02:58:48 Nicola Cartlidge 03:27:19
Kurt Wilkinson 02:34:19 Frederick Ungoed-Courtney 02:59:07 Beth Shakespeare 03:29:00
Matteo Gala 02:35:03 John Mayock 03:01:58 Stephen Watts 03:29:59
Jonathan Tipper 02:38:56 Victoria Buck 03:03:15 Sally Urquhart 03:30:25
Adam Paterson 02:41:04 Mark Crabtree 03:05:42 Rob Harvey 03:32:51
Robbie Smith 02:41:44 Fran Buss 03:06:05 Kate Fawcett 03:43:54
Simon Vaisey 02:42:48 Katie Good 03:08:55 Nathan Stephenson 03:56:13
Kendal Noctor 02:43:00 Alex Morales 03:09:39 Sarah Young 04:15:08
Calum Macdonald 02:43:51 Alison Thomson 03:10:23 Ronnie Haydon 04:20:51
Gavin Orr 02:45:07 Lyndon Marfell 03:10:25 Heather Castle 04:38:33
William Goldberg 02:45:16 Huw Evans 03:11:52 Daisy Noble 04:50:54
Alistair McMaster 02:47:18 Stuart Beaney 03:12:08 Martin Morgan 05:07:23
Philip Woodford Smith 02:48:15 Nick Edney 03:12:52 Miki Jablkowska 05:47:40
Tom Heslop 02:48:28 John Gilchrist 03:14:05    

Congratulations to everybody who ran!
 


MINI MARATHON REPORT


There was a superb Kent AC Turnout yesterday for the London Mini Marathon, which was of the usual incredibly high standard. Well done to all our competitors! This 2.62 km race came with the highs and lows we’ve come to expect: punishingly early start, free merch (who doesn’t love a Lewisham hoody), and an incredible atmosphere.  And plenty of injuries at the starting line, some nastier than others. Competition can indeed be fierce!  That didn’t stop any of our winners completing the course. 

Extra credit to Martha Parry, who ran in the U17 category despite being only 13, due to an administrative error, and to George, Tom and Dylan, who got great results despite falls.

  Boys under 17
17th London/52nd overall Olly Buck 07:52
54th/116th Dylan Sandhu  08:25
72nd/136th Louis Holley 08:39 

  Girls under 17
84th/149th Lauren Jefferson 11:17 
 85th/150th Martha Parry 11:19 
101st/166th Abigail Wrake 12:32

A group of people running on a road AI-generated content may be incorrect.
Lauren, Abigail, Martha

Boys under 15
41st/103rd Luke Roderick 08:40 
45th/108th George Searle 08:44
86th/151st Matteo Watson 09:15
89th/154th Lucas Stickland 09:18 


Dylan, George, Tom

Girls under 15 
34th/93rd  Tallulah Jones 09:55 
47th/109th Alice Hales 10:10
112th/177th Alexandra Walker 11:17 

Boys under 13 
33rd/85th Tom Brain 09:16 
77th/135th Joel Spencer 09:47 
90th/149th Edward Pearce 09:57

Girls under 13 
17th/64th Eleanor Davidson 10:00
63rd/120th Daria Gilmore 10:45   

Tremendously well done to all our juniors who took part!


EVENT CALENDAR


(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)

May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
10 – Ladywell 10000
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet

June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet 


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

An egg-celent weekend


96

An egg-celent weekend

&lt;&lt;First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 21/04/25<!–



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KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN
21 April 2025


Whilst many of us focused on chocolate egg indulgence this weekend, Kent AC runners laced up in Boston, Folkestone and closer to home in Battersea Park.

But first, throwing it back to last weekend, Olly Buck raced in the National Young Athletes 5k Championships, scoring 6th place overall in 15:57. Nice work!

At the Folkestone 10 on Friday, Rory Knight, Rob Laing and Barny Day finished consecutively in 56:06, 56:17 and 57:12.


Dream team

Meanwhile in Maidenhead, Tom Webb also broke 60 for 10 miles, coming home in 59:24.

Chris Mullin received a lovely selection of easter eggs, after finishing in second place at the Westonbirt House Easter Half in 78:00.

In Victoria Park, Andrea Barber crossed the line in 1:37:54 for the half marathon.

On Saturday, Joe Hartley ran the Top Flight 5k at Battersea Park, finishing in 15:32.
Stuart Beaney opted for the 10k, scoring 38:53.

Today, three Kent athletes lined up for the second Marathon Major of the year in Boston.
Dan Pettitt was first home in 2:47:58, followed by Jonathan Ratcliffe and James Royston in 2:52:38 and 3:09:49 respectively.

We’re looking for officials to assist at the KYAL and SAL this season.
If you are interested, please contact Jaqueline Francis.

Now onto Manchester and London marathon this weekend!
We will certainly be celebrating all of you running in London and raising glasses for those in Manchester at The Chandos in Charing Cross post-race. Pop along for one or stay for a few.


LAST CHANCE TO ENTER THE LADYWELL 10000


The Ladywell 10000 returns on Saturday 10th May.

Your last chance to enter is this week, with the deadline being Saturday 26th April. 

Enter here

We’re still looking for volunteers to help on the day, to ensure the event runs as smoothly as possible. 
If you are available, even for for some of the day, please lend us a hand!

Volunteer here


FANCY A RELAY?


Back for another year, the Beckenham and Dulwich relay dates are confirmed. Kicking off on 21st May at Beckenham Place Park, followed by 18th June in Dulwich Park.

A fantastic opportunity to race and socialise across all groups!

Please only register if you’re sure you can attend either event. 
Sign up here.


EVENT CALENDAR


(please note that the dates marked tbc are provisional)

April
26 – KYAL – Ashford
27 – London Marathon

May
1 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
10 – Ladywell 10000
14 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
17 – SAL – Dartford
18 – KYAL – Norman Park (Bromley)
21 – Beckenham Relays – Beckenham Place Park
29 – (tbc) Early summer meet

June
3 – Track social
5 – Assembly League – Crystal Palace Park
11 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
18 – Dulwich Relays – Dulwich Park
22 – SAL – Woodford Green

July
1 – Track social
3 – Assembly League – Sutcliffe Park
5 – KYAL – Medway Park
9 – Kent AC Wednesday social run
13 – SAL – Eltham
26 – (tbc) Ron Hale Open 

August
5 – Track social
7 – Assembly League – Victoria Park
16 – KYAL – Dartford
30 – SAL – Basildon

September
4 – Assembly League – Beckenham Place Park
7 – Big Half – London
11 – (tbc) Late Summer Meet 


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


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 £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.

Please see a helpful FAQs guide here

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.

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


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 here is kacladywell2022.

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Kent AC · Alex Yee Arena · London · London, London SE6 4QX · United Kingdom

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