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Autumn club news

With autumn well and truly here now, the racing season seems to be winding slowly towards its conclusion, however quite a few Biddulph stalwarts continue to turn out for the final events of 2019. The weather has been changeable to say the least but there is always something to look forward to in every race be it the beautiful autumnal colours on the leafy Lakeland trails or the buzz and excitement of the crowded Dublin Marathon.

The weekend of the 13th October brought cool but pleasant conditions for the Werrington 10k and the Manchester half marathon.

Werrington 10k (forming part of the Trentham Triple Series hosted by Trentham Running Club) followed its usual route through some of the gently undulating lanes adjoining Moorside High School. The Biddulph runners made light work of this and finished in some very respectable times: Darren Mottram 41:04, Peter Sherratt 44:36, Lawrence Edwards 45:51, David Bailey 46:08, Sandra Edwards 51:17, Elizabeth Sherratt 58:17 (PB) and Joanne Bailey 58:40.

Kim Carter, one of the clubs new runners from the 2017 "New to Running" course chose Manchester Half as her first ever half marathon. The race (which starts and finishes by Old Trafford) is one of the biggest events in the region and is always extremely well supported. She did amazingly well and finished in a speedy time of 02:02:00. We hope this is the first of many for Kim.

Biddulph runners enjoying the sunshine in the Ullswater 14k race

A large group of runners travelled to the Lake District for the 2019 finale of the Lakeland Trails series of races - the Dirty Double. Based in the lakeside village of Glenridding the races include the Helvellyn Trails on the Saturday and the Ullswater Trails on the Sunday. Due to the heavy rain leading up to the event the trails were delightfully soggy and the team had an enjoyable couple of days. To cap it all the Ullswater steamer was able to ferry the runners across Lake Ullswater to Howtown this year for the start of Sundays race, the first time in several years as the conditions on the lake are rarely suitable. The Biddulph group achieved the following results - Helvellyn 15k Race; Katie Trace 1:24:37, Jon Horne 1:24:38 and Penny Graham 1:25:32. Helvellyn 15k Challenge; Paul Cornwell 1:20:23, David Bailey 1:22:37, Graham Fisher 1:32:13 and Joanne Bailey 1:44:55. Helvellyn 10k Trail Run; James Trace 1:10:22. Ullswater 14k Race; Katie Trace 1:28:37, Jon Horne 1:28:54 and Penny Graham 1:28:54. Ullswater 14k Challenge; Paul Cornwell 1:22:37, David Bailey 1:26:38 and Joanne Bailey 1:56:03. Ullswater 10k Trail Run; Graham Fisher 1:21:45 and James Trace 1:38:33.

The same weekend sisters Helen Clayton and Becky Stringer were in Dublin soaking up the atmosphere (hopefully not too Guinness laden) of the Dublin Marathon. This sensational event, renowned for its friendly supporting crowds, finishes in Merrion Square close to historic Trinity College having taken runners in a single loop around the sights of the ancient city. Becky and Helen ran together and both finished in 4:12:04.

The couch to 5k runners with the run leaders

Biddulph Running Club's "New to Running" course finished at the end of October and participants undertook their 5k celebration run on Sunday November 3rd around Knypersley Pool. The new runners were well supported by other club members who ran alongside them encouraging them to achieve their goals. All of the course graduates succeeded and each one finished the run with a smile on their face and with an immense feeling of triumph. Every runner could see a massive improvement in their own running from week to week as the course progressed and one or two never imagined they would ever be able to get to this point. The club is very proud of all of them and is pleased to see that most of them are turning up on club nights and have started to integrate into the club’s running groups.

GLH


New to Running group of 2019

Congratulations to all the new runners who went through the clubs couch to 5k new to running course. Thanks goes to the running leaders who ran the course, Kevin Shufflebottom, Karen Wynn and Simon Hodgkiss. Thanks also to the numerous other club members who helped the smooth running of the course. On completion the runner all ran a celebratory 5k course, most at Knypersley Pool on November 3rd but one runner who couldn't make that day ran the Congleton Park Run on November 2nd instead. Two other new runners ran both the Park Run and the Knypersley Pool run, two 5ks in two days!

The times achieved by the runners were -

Time
Amanda Shenton40.52
Ann Marie Dodds41.12
Dawn McGovern34.20
Emily Shallcros37.24
Eric Cooper48.13
Hayley Butler39.11
Holly Harris37.25
Jack Cooper30.33
Jessica Scragg41.12
Kevin Burndred26.28
Kirsty Stevens44.10
Mark Payne33.37
Nicola Rickman40.52

The couch to 5k runners line up ready for their 5k run round Knypersley Pool

Mark and other BRC members pose for a photo after the Congleton Park Run


September 2019

The Club has been busy over the summer with many of its members turning out for a variety of local events and some travelling further afield to sample what the rest of the country has to offer.

A good turnout for the club at the Dave Clarke 5k race in Trentham

The Dave Clark 5k multi-terrain race hosted by Trentham Running Club is always a club favourite and this year twelve members turned out on a warm Thursday evening (August 15th) to take part. The route followed the roads, tracks and canal towpath around Trentham, starting and finishing at Trentham Rugby Club. Biddulph's results were as follows; Darren Mottram 19:57, Laurence Edwards 23:13, David Bailey 23:26, Jamie Adams 23:55, Jon Horne 24:58, Sandra Edwards 25:59, Karen Mackintosh 27:27, Alison Husbands 29:03, Gill Horne 29:24, Elizabeth Sherratt 30:23, Ian Fothergill 32:25 and Catherine Worth 36:18.

BRC members relax with their finishers medals after the 4.5 mile Quarry Bank trail race, a new event to the club

Another good turnout for the Club was Quarry Bank Trail Race (7th August) which no-one from the club had tried before. The 5 mile route was an interesting mixture of roads and wooded trails with a section along the edge of one of Manchester Airport's runways – made even more exciting when an aeroplane took off just beside the path as the bulk of the runners were passing by! The race was declared a unanimous success by the Biddulph runners and most will apply to do next year's event. Biddulph achieved the following times; Steve Evans 36:36, Katie Trace 37:35, David Bailey 38:18, Paul Cornwell 40:37, Emma King 44:43, Gill Horne 49:33, Joanne Bailey 49:34 and Elizabeth Sherratt 50:27.

Simon looking at ease during the Peak Distrct 50 mile race

Simon Hodgkiss ran two Ultra Marathons in August. These were the Peak Skyline 50k and the Peak District 50 miles which he finished in most incredible times of 07:24:06 and 11:50:19 respectively.

Darren Mottram ran the Leek Half Marathon (18th August) and Robert Minton the Cheshire Half Marathon (1st September) finishing in 01:38:15 and 01:41:43 respectively.

Biddulph club members before the Congleton Half

Congleton Half Marathon took place on 6th October. Several Biddulph members ran the race with more turning up (or running to Congleton) to support the team. The race followed the usual route with the "Sting in the Tail" coming just before the final run in to the finish. Undaunted – the Club runners took it all in their stride with several gaining personal best times. Their finish times were: Darren Mottram 01:33:17 (PB), Martin Gibson 01:33:51 (PB), Peter Sherratt 01:37:51, Robert Minton 01:40:52, Laura Venables 01:43:41, Rowena Jukes 01:46:33 (PB), Helen Booth 01:52:07, Rebecca Stringer 01:52:07, Katie Brookes 01:58:52 (PB), Stephanie Ward 01:59:32 (PB), Graham Fisher 02:03:20, Elizabeth Sherratt 02:13:07 (PB) and Ian Fothergill 02:21:07.

Peter Sherratt and Matthew Baddeley before the Gritstone Grind 35 mile hilly off-road race

Peter Sherratt once again took on the Gritstone Grind (8th September) – 35 miles of off-road running from Kidsgrove to Disley with over 6000ft of tricky ascent and descent! A fabulous run under hot sunny conditions saw Sherratt cross the line in 08:17:19 – still with a smile on his face!

BRC members display their finishers medals after the Sandbach 10k

The Sandbach 10k road race was also on the 8th September and six Biddulph runners turned out for this. They had good runs and finished in the following times: Simon Hodgkiss 40:42, David Bailey 45:50, Emma King 54:00, Stephanie Ward 56:04, Joanne Bailey 57:59 and Karen Wynn 01:07:31.

Jon Horne high in the hills above Keswick during the 15k lakeland trails challenge

The same weekend (7th September) three members Jon Horne, Graham Fisher and Gill Horne travelled to the Lakes for the Keswick Trail races. Again the warm conditions made the ascents quite difficult but the views from the top over Derwentwater made it all worthwhile. Jon Horne finished in 01:34:53 (15k) and Graham Fisher in 01:43:54 (15k) Gill Horne finished the 10k in 01:11:54.

Some of the club at the Great North Run

The Great North Run - the largest half marathon in the world taking place between Newcastle upon Tyne and South Shields - was (also) on September 8th. Darren Mottram, Katie Trace, Andrew Eptlett, James Trace and Ian Fothergill all travelled up to the North East to take part in this very special event. They rose to the challenge (soaking up the incredible atmosphere this race always engenders) and finished in good times; Mottram 01:34:51, Katie Trace 01:43:58, Eptlett 01:56:35, James Trace 02:43:12 and Fothergill 02:49:19.

Gill Horne enjoying some of the sights - including many bands and some random goats - at the Reigate Half Marathon

Gill Horne made a return to her home town of Reigate in Surrey to take on the Reigate Half Marathon (15th September) as a sightseeing tour/run around her old stamping ground. After posing with every musical band along the way, with every meaningful landmark (and with some random goats being walked along the lane on leads) she finally finished in 02:30:18!

Jeremy Brookes grappling with the pack 1 mile into the Macclesfield Half

The following week (22nd September) Jeremy Brookes ran a good race at the Macclesfield Half Marathon. This challenging sharply undulating route starts and finishes at Macclesfiled Leisure Centre and takes in Prestbury Village and the leafy lanes surrounding the area. Brookes achieved 02:05:13.

Now that summer is over and the dark nights are drawing in the club training runs on Tuesday and Thursday evenings (6.30pm for 6.45pm start) have reverted back to the winter routes - road only. Of course extra runs are often planned at other times and days and at weekends and these may be on or off road. New members are always welcome - see the club website for contact details or just turn up on a club night and speak to any club member.

GLH


Conti Thunder Run 2019

Biddulph Running Club at Thunder Run

The Conti Thunder Run is a 24 hour off-road relay race around a 10km trail lap. It takes place in Catton Park near Walton on Trent (Derbyshire). The course is officially undulating over mixed terrain and this includes fields, woodland trails and stony tracks. The idea is for each team to complete as many laps as they can (or want) in the 24 hour time allocation.

Biddulph Running club entered two teams. There was a team of eight and a team of five, plus one individual who opted for the single lap 10k race which preceded the main event.

The weekend provided mixed weather with a damp start on the Friday as the camp site was being set up.

No kidding - we're talking serious rain!

The race itself began in almost perfect conditions, however this quickly deteriorated and after the first two or three hours torrential rain deluged the entire course. It didn't take long for the race circuit to turn into a slippery mud bath! This unfortunately slowed everybody down but certainly didn't dampen the spirits of the Biddulph line-up. As the 24 hours wore on into the night the course transformed from running water, through sludge and into heavy clods of mud but it had dried back out to a clean, dry, fast surface again by dawn!

The team of eight included Rebecca Stringer, Peter Sherratt, Helen Jones, Jon Horne, Karen Murphy, James Trace, Gill Horne and Kevin Shufflebottom. The team of five included Katie Trace, Penny Graham, Robert Minton, Kate Heathcock and Graham Fisher. Elizabeth Sherratt ran the 10k race.

The team of eight ran 22 laps and the team of five ran 23 laps between them.

All of the Biddulph runners were extremely grateful to their support crew, some of whom stayed up all night with them to ensure they got onto the start line at the correct time for the handover. They were Tracy Shufflebottom, Trish Taylor and Helen Booth. Thanks all!

Biddulph Running Club thoroughly enjoyed the Thunder Run weekend from beginning to end and will no doubt be putting in an appearance there again in 2020.

GLH


July 2019

The racing season continues and the familiar Black and Gold Biddulph club vests have been seen at a variety of venues over the last few weeks!

It must have been a hot day at the Alderley Edge bypass 10k

Ten Running Club members ran the Alderley Edge 10k on Sunday 7th July. This annual race involves running the full length of the Alderley Edge bypass in both directions while closed to all traffic. The smooth tarmac surface and the very gentle undulation ensures fast times for all participants and the Biddulph team crossed the line with the following results: Darren Mottram 39:49, Katie Trace 45:01, Rowena Jukes 47:25, Helen England 49:54, Jamie Adams 52:16, Rachel Platt 58:19, Jeff Roberts 1:02:02, Ian Fothergill 1:04:56, Karen Wynn 1:05:02 and Joanne Plant 1:07:35.

Biddulph Runners at the final few SMAC summer series runs

The SMAC Summer Series of runs continued throughout the rest of June and into July and there were Biddulph "regulars" turning out for every one of these beautifully scenic and relatively local trail/fell runs. The remaining runs included Ilam on the 20th June ( Katie Trace 48:17, Jon Horne 49:59, Penny Graham 50:14, Jeremy Brookes 52:40 and James Trace 1:00:29), Shuttlingsloe on the 27th June (Katie Trace 36:57, Jon Horne 38:07 and Jeremy Brookes 39:35), Oakamoor on the 5th July (Penny Graham 41:25, Katie Trace 41:26, Jon Horne 41:27, Jeremy Brookes 42:08, and Katie Brookes 44:40), Biddulph Grange on the 11th July (Kevin Shufflebottom 35:37, Jon Horne 36:08, Helen Burndred 37:29, Jeremy Brookes 37:42, Helen England 37:55, Graham Fisher 39:04, Karen Mackintosh 42:02, Tracy Shufflebottom 42:08, Claire Shufflebotham 42:45 and Elizabeth Sherratt 46:22) and the final event Rudyard on the 18th July (Simon Hodgkiss 32:18, Helen Burndred 37:37, Jeremy Brookes 39:15 and Karen Murphy 42:49).

Jeremy Brookes also ran Macclesfield Harriers Langley Fete Fell Run (2.8 miles) on Sunday 7th July finishing in 35:38.

The Stone St Michael's 10k Road Race is a two lap flat course which takes runners through the market town of Stone, Staffordshire. This year on 16th June four Biddulph runners took part and all came back with fast times (with Martin Gibson achieving a personal best). The results were as follows; Martin Gibson 43:10, Peter Sherratt 43:41, Jamie Adams 49:44 and Ian Fothergill 59.28.

Peter Sherratt and Ian Fothergill could also be seen the following week (22nd June) at the Meerbrook 15k; a challenging road race with scenic views over the Cheshire Plain and beyond. Beginning at Meerbrook Village Hall in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands the race takes in two climbs of Gunn Hill and more! Peter finished in 1:16:28 and Ian in 1:51:46.

More ice cream at the Northwich 10k, same day as the Alderley Edge bypass

Northwich Festival of Running is always a great family day out with races to suit every level of runner (10k, 5k and a 2k fun run). The races are all based in and around Marbury Country Park on undulating but easily negotiable parkland trails and pathways. This year the event took place on 7th July and three Biddulph trail runners took part in the 10k section achieving the following times: Jon Horne 50:49, Graham Fisher 54:26 and Karen Mackintosh 57.31.

A good turnout from Biddulph at the Cheadle 4

Biddulph fielded another good turnout at the Cheadle 4 road race on 14th July. The course included a long steep climb after the first mile but had a nice downhill stretch from mile 3 and into the finish. The team did the club proud and finished in the following times; Simon Hodgkiss 26:39, Martin Gibson 26:47, Peter Sherratt 28:19, Rowena Jukes 30:20, Jamie Adams 31:39, Katie Brookes 33:52, Laurence Edwards 34:01, Sandra Edwards 34:57, Elizabeth Sherratt 38:43, Ian Fothergill 39:15 and Catherine Worth 44:41.

Biddulph Running Club meets on a Tuesday and Thursday evening at Biddulph Leisure Centre for training runs, new members are always welcome.

Potential new members may find all the information they need on the clubs homepage

GLH


May and June 2019

Biddulph Runners at the Potters Arf

Biddulph Running Club was certainly out in force on the weekend of 9th June at one of the most popular races in the club's calendar - the Potters 'Arf - sponsored by The Hanley Building Society.

The race followed the usual route starting and finishing outside the Potteries Shopping Centre. It took in 13.1 miles of roads surrounding the local area including Shelton, Longton, Bentilee and Abbey Hulton with the challenging climb up Milton's "Heartbreak Hill" coming just a couple of miles before the end.

As usual there was a fantastic atmosphere surrounding the whole race with locals lining the streets and offering their support to every runner as they came past.

Twenty Biddulph runners, some fairly new to the club and running their first race in their club gold and black vests, completed this near-iconic half marathon with many more members stationing themselves at various points along the course to cheer them on their way.

The Biddulph team had a successful morning and the results were as follows; Simon Hodgkiss 01:34:38, Darren Mottram 01:43:02, Peter Sherratt 01:43:39, Robert Minton 01:46:00, Helen Booth 01:53:54, Rebecca Stringer 01:53:54, Helen Burndred 01:57:04, Andrew Hollies 01:57:41, Helen England 01:57:47, Ruth Murphy 02:11:20, Karen Murphy 02:11:20, Claire Shufflebotham 02:11:21, Joanne Bailey 02:11:23, Jon Horne 02:11:24, Stephanie Ward 02:13:31, Rachel Platt 02:14:51, Alison Husbands 02:15:18, Emma Dale 02:15:50, Elizabeth Sherratt 02:19:54 and Jeff Roberts 02:29:06.

Going back to May the club had quite a few more successes.

Biddulph Runners at the Transylvania 100

A team of three Biddulph Ultra-runners made their way to Dracula's Castle in the village of Bran, Transylvania - to the start of the Transylvania 100 races. From here they traversed the mountainous area following rocky alpine trails, forest pathways and mountain plateaus, ascending and descending thousands of meters before finally wending their way back towards Draculas home. Peter Sherratt and Robert Minton got back together from the 30k race in a very respectable 07:39:38 and Paul Cornwell finished the 50k race in an amazing 11:14:05 (No wooden stakes required on this occasion!).

Biddulph Runners at Market Drayton

The Market Drayton 10k, another club favourite, took place on May 12th and six members turned out for this one. The route was the same as in previous years - mainly flat but undulating in places with a short steep hill towards the end. The team did the club proud and finished in the following times; Peter Sherratt 44:27, Rebecca Stringer 48:41 (PB), Elizabeth Sherratt 59:25, Ian Fothergill 01:00:15, Catherine Worth 01:10:49 and Luisa Telford 01:18:01.

Katie Trace in the Coniston Marathon

Some of the club's trail running enthusiasts attended a rather damp Lakeland Trails Marathon weekend at Coniston on June 2nd. Fortunately the Lakes look stunning whatever the weather and the group enjoyed their running despite the clouds and rain. Katie Trace ran a good race finishing the very hilly marathon in 04:43:02. Penny Graham, Jon Horne and Gill Horne ran the half marathon and crossed the line in 02:06:46, 02:15:31 and 02:45:49 respectively. James Trace took on the 10k race and finished in 01:32:30.

There have been several races recently at which just one or two club individuals have attended. These include the Rainow 5 (5 mile) Fell Race on May 1st (Katie Trace 46:08, Jeremy Brookes 52:00), the Uttoxeter Half Marathon on 5th May (Ian Fothergill 02:20:37, Jamie Adams 02:20:42), he Keswick Mountain Festival 25k on 19th May (Simon Hodgkiss 02:46:08), the Great Manchester Run Half Marathon on 19th May (Joanne Plant in her very first half marathon 02:24:59) and the Liverpool Rock 'n' Roll Marathon on 26th May (Simon Hodgkiss 03:43:14).

A few club members have been participating in Staffs Moorlands AC Summer Series - a series of around 10 off-road races that take place on Thursday evenings during May and into August. Biddulph members have so far achieved the following times; Tittesworth; Jeremy Brookes 41:10, Katie Brookes 41:51, Buxton; Jeremy Brookes 45:24, Roaches; Penny Graham 53:10, Katie Trace 53:11 and Jon Horne 53:12. The next race will be held at Ilam.

The club continues to meet on a Tuesday and Thursday evening at Biddulph Leisure Centre for training runs. These tend to be multi-terrain whenever possible over the summer months. Away runs (usually with a sandwich and chip tea afterwards) are planned from time to time over the summer and the first of these will be held at Tittesworth reservoir on the evening of June 25th.

Potential new members may find all the information they need on the clubs homepage

GLH


Biddulph Runners at London Marathon

Biddulph club members with their London Marathon medals

Biddulph Running Club members Andrew Eptlett, Katie Brookes and Rowena Jukes ran the Virgin Money London Marathon last weekend (Sunday April 28th). Second claim members Kate Heathcock (of Mow Cop Runners) and Carol Bird (of Congleton Harriers) also took part.

The trio were helped along the 26 plus miles by thousands of supporters who lined the entire route and this included a group of Biddulph club members situated at the 25 mile mark waiting to cheer them on towards the finish line. The weather was kind to the runners this time - being pleasantly cool and dry on the day - quite a contrast to last year's unbearably high temperatures.

Andrew Eptlett ran for Biddulph Running Club having gained the club place through the club ballot. Katie Brookes and Rowena Bridges had secured charity places. Katie ran for The Children's Society and Rowena ran for Cardiac Risk in the Young (in memory of a close relative). They have both put a lot of effort into their fund-raising and have already raised over £8000 between them. Donations may still be made via their JustGiving pages.

All Biddulph runners agreed it had been the experience of a lifetime. Katie said she was "truly flabbergasted" and had been "blown away by words of support and encouragement" with Rowena saying she wished she could "bottle the feeling" she had going over the finish line. Andy said it was a "bucket list experience" and that "the finish was spine tingling and will never be forgotten".

They all had good runs and finished in the following times Bridges 03:53:18 (first marathon), Eptlett 04:15:24 (PB) and Brookes 04:27:29 (first marathon). Second claim members Carol Bird and Kate Heathcock finished in 03:21:15 and 04:06:57 respectively.

The photograph shows the Biddulph runners safely back home complete with medals and tee-shirts. Next year's London Marathon will be on Sunday 26th April 2020 and ballot entries have opened and closed already. Fingers crossed for any Biddulph hopefuls!!


April 2019

April saw some spectacular achievements by Biddulph runners gained over a range of distances.

Manchester to Liverpool Ultra Marathon

Two hardy souls (Peter Sherratt and Simon Hodgkiss) took on the Manchester to Liverpool Ultra Marathon on April 19th. The race started beside Old Trafford - the home of Manchester United Football Club - and followed a 50 mile route along the Trans-Pennine Trail, the Manchester Ship Canal and the River Mersey, finishing in Liverpool several hours later! The duo were well supported by Liz Sherratt and Fiona Hodgkiss along the way and both runners finished in very good times; Hodgkiss 9:57:35 (receiving a gold medal for finishing within the top 100 participants) and Sherratt 10:25:32 (Silver). Both were back out running a few days later and Simon Hodgkiss is already looking for his next Ultra challenge!

Manchester Marathon

The Manchester Marathon took place on April 8th and four Biddulph members took part in this event. The fast flat 26.1 miles followed the usual route starting in Old Trafford then taking in the streets of Sale, Altrincham, Ashton upon Mersey, Urmston and Stretford before returning to Old Trafford for the finish. The race was well supported along the entire route and several club members turned out to cheer the Biddulph team on. The team achieved the following times; Robert Minton 03:31:13, Peter Sherratt 03:37:46 (PB), Rebecca Stringer 04:07:42 (PB) and Ian Fothergill 05:47:36.

Newcastle 10k

Six club members ran the Newcastle 10k race - a fairly local event starting outside the college in Newcastle-under Lyme. The route climbed a tough three miles up Black Bank hill then down into Silverdale and back along the old railway lines into the finish. Biddulph's results were as follows; Stephanie Ward 54:31, Ruth Murphy 54:33, Emma Dale 56:25, Rachel Platt 56:25, Ian Fothergill 1:00:5 and Karen Wynn 1:01:49.

Air Products 10k

Ian Fothergill was the only Biddulph taker for the Air Products 10k this time. This fast flat 10k race takes place in Crewe and consists of two laps around the roads near to the MMU campus. Ian finished the race in 1:01:44.

Biddulph Running Club meets at Biddulph Leisure Centre every Tuesday and Thursday evening for training runs. Longer runs often arranged at weekends.

Potential new members may find all the information they need on the clubs homepage

GLH


Feb/Mar 2019

The last few weeks have been very busy for Biddulph Running Club. With the spring season well and truly here now, many members have already been out and about competing in the first group of 2019 races.

Knypersley Pool Multi-terrain 5 mile race

The club hosted its own annual race on February 24th - the Knype 5 Charity event. Most members either helped or marshalled for this with a few brave souls opting to take on the challenging multi-terrain 5 mile race themselves. The morning of the race was cold but pleasantly sunny and this helped engender an air of cheerful optimism for the 200 plus competitors who lined up for the start of the race. The route took participants around the reservoir, up through the woods, back down the fields then returning back to the finish for soup, coffee and cakes. The Biddulph runners finished in the following times; Paul Cornwell 39:39, Calum Kidd 40:56, Chris Lane 41:23, Laurence Edwards 42:30, Sandra Edwards 46:36, Gary McQueen 47:38, Jamie Adams 48:07, Kevin Stone 1:00:31, John Lovatt 1:00:36 and Catherine Worth 1:01:31.

Northumberland Coastal Trail

The previous day (February 23rd) a small group of club members travelled up to Bamburgh Castle for Endurancelife's Northumberland Coastal Trail races. Katie Trace and Penny Graham ran the full marathon option with Jon Horne, Karen Murphy, Kate Heathcock, Karen Mackintosh and Gill Horne taking on the half marathon distance. Arriving at the start the team fully expected that the Northumberland coast in February would be harsh with freezing wind and rainy conditions. However they were pleasantly surprised to find warm sunny weather waiting for them along with a gentle breeze that coaxed them northwards along the beach towards the finish line! All had a pleasant run and the following times were achieved: Marathon: Penny Graham 4:31:55 and Katie Trace 4:41:34, Half Marathon: Jon Horne 2:09:30, Kate Heathcock 2:09:31, Karen Murphy 2:14:21, Karen Macintosh 2:16:36, James Trace 2:25:41 and Gill Horne 2:33:49

Congleton Harriers Cloud 9 race

The week after Knype 5, on Sunday 3rd of March, was Congleton Harriers first race of 2019 - the Cloud 9. This is another beautifully scenic route that takes runners along the Biddulph Valley Way, across farmland to Timbersbrook, up and down the Cloud (with its stunning 360 degree panoramic views) then back downhill to Congleton - 9 very hilly miles in total! Four Biddulph runners (Joanne Bailey, Peter Sherratt, Mark Baron and David Bailey) turned out on the day with more club members running up to the Cloud from Biddulph to cheer them on. The Biddulph runners finished in the following times; Peter Sherratt 1:15:43, Mark Baron 1:17:41, David Bailey 1:25:08 and Joanne Bailey 1:41:46

Stafford Half Marathon tempted six Biddulph members to join the 4500 runners taking part. The route started in the Town Centre then headed off into Stafford's surrounding countryside. After two steady climbs it returned via Victoria Park to the finish line in the Market Square. The Biddulph runners had an enjoyable morning and finished in; Martin Gibson 1:41:07, Katie Trace 1:44:42, Rebecca Stringer 1:52:49, Jamie Adams 1:55:43, Ian Fothergill 2:16:12 and James Trace 2:28:31.

Biddulph runners could also be seen at the Cheadle Spring 5 on 3rd March (Emma King 41:33, Sandra Edwards 41:36 and Ian Fothergill 48:35), the New Balance Knighton 20 on 10th March (Robert Minton 2:34:39, Peter Sherratt 2:41:56, Rowena Jukes 2:57:29, Katie Brookes 3:26:17, Ian Fothergill 3:58:03) and the Cheshire 10k on 23rd March (Elizabeth Sherratt 58:48).

Wilmslow Half Marathon

Last weekend (March 24th) was Wilmslow Half Marathon with three Biddulph Club members turning out for this. Last year after being cancelled due to the mini Beast from the East the race had to be rescheduled to July when the intense muggy heat caused problems for some runners. This time though Wilmslow Half runners were blessed with cool but sunny conditions (perfect for running) and the Biddulph members all had good runs. The race followed the usual fast flat route through the winding country lanes to Mobberley and back and the Team secured the following finish times; Robert Minton 1:31:48, Peter Sherratt 1:33:33, Graham Fisher 1:52:22.

The club meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening at Biddulph Valley Leisure Centre for training runs and at various other times and places to suit individual training needs. Now that the clocks have gone forward the club will be changing over to its summer programme of runs (daylight permitting) and will include more off-road routes across the fields and footpaths in the local area.

Potential new members will find all the information they may require on the club's homepage

GLH.


Biddulph Running Club Knype 5 Charity Race

Photos courtesy of Brian Dale

And they're off - for the 2019 Knype Pool 5 mile charity race

Biddulph Running Club staged its annual race event last Sunday (24th February) - the Knype Pool 5 Charity Race and 1 mile fun run. The beautiful sunny weather attracted nearly 200 competitors to negotiate the challenging five mile multi-terrain route which takes in the tracks, fields and woods around the popular local venue - Knypersley Reservoir. This year the conditions underfoot were near-perfect and some fast times were achieved.

The main race, which was chip timed by Andrew Vickerman Timing was won by Simon Bailey of Mercia Fell Runners in a time of 28:15. Second was Jason Burgess (Buxton and District AC) and third was Ben Light (Buxton and District AC). The first lady through the finish was Leah Whiston of Newcastle (Staffs) AC in a time of 33:11. Second was Amy Clark (Buxton and District AC) and third was Natalie Duncombe (Knutsford Tri Club).

Cash prizes were awarded to first, second and third male and female finishers and for veteran category male and female winners. All finishers were given a Biddulph Running Club neck buff.

Biddulph town Mayor and race coordinator Dawn Addison-Moss walk competitors to the fun run start

 

The fun run (a one mile lap of the main reservoir) was undertaken by 43 runners and the winner was Oliver Bailey of Mercia Fell Runners in a time of 6:38. All fun runners received a medal on completion.

The sweeper encourages a tail runner - and marshals return after their tour of duty

 

Race director Graham Fisher thanked all of the marshals and helpers and gave a special mention to the race sponsors who will have made a great difference to the final amount raised for the mayor's charities. The sponsors this year were Biddulph Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic, Parker Software, Storm Roofing, Hollinsheads Coaches, Sainsburys, Running Bear, Roy Beech, Bryan Dale Photography, Staffordshire County Council and Biddulph Town Council.

The proceeds from the race will go to the Biddulph Mayor's chosen charities which (this year) are Myeloma UK, Salvation Army Hostel (Stoke), Sanctus and Staffordshire Emergency Services Humanitarian Aid Association (SESHAA). A cheque will be presented to the town mayor at a later date.

Excellent feedback from participants and their supporters has been received and the race will be going ahead again in 2020.

GLH


Four Villages Half Marathon - 20th January 2019

Having got the Christmas festivities out of the way some club runners got down to the real business - racing. The first event in Biddulph's calendar was the Four Villages Half Marathon which was hosted by Helsby Running Club on Sunday 20th January. The hilly course which takes runners through the villages of Helsby, Manley, Mouldsworth and Dunham on the Hill was undertaken by 6 club members. They finished in the following times; Carol Bird 1:32:44, Peter Sherratt 1:34:04 (PB), Robert Minton 1:34:27, Rachel Hollins 1:37:48, Rebecca Stringer 1:50:51 and Graham Fisher 1:54:34.

The club is very proud of Carol Bird's result at the Four Villages Half Marathon as this has put her at the top of the RunBritain national rankings for her age group for half marathons which is an amazing achievement. Well done Carol!

The next big event on Biddulph Running Club's calendar is the club's own Knype 5 Charity race - a five mile multi-terrain race and one mile fun run (entries on the day for the fun run) in aid of the Biddulph Mayors charities. The race takes place on Sunday 24th February at 11am (fun run at 10.15am). Further details can be found on the club's homepage

GLH


Biddulph Running Club Awards Evening - 5th January 2019

This annual event, held at Knypersley Cricket Club, always combines the club's Christmas/New Year party with a celebration of members' efforts and successes from the previous year.

In his speech this year Chairman (Kevin Shufflebottom) highlighted some of the club's greatest achievements from 2018. These included club members' participation in the London Marathon, the Long Island Half Marathon (USA), The Gritstone Grind, Thunder Run (team event) plus many more. He thanked the committee for their continued hard work and voiced his hopes and anticipation for the club's continued good performance in the year ahead. He then awarded the Chairman's and Championship trophies.

This year the Chairman's special award was shared between Rebecca Stringer and Peter Sherratt. Both had taken part in countless half marathons (plus other distances including an Ultra) over the year. These were set in a variety of locations and they found themselves battling difficult weather conditions at times and often faced some highly challenging terrain, but Rebecca and Peter maintained consistently high standards of running throughout the year (and always looked happy as they crossed the line at the finish!).

The Club Championship awards which reflect age graded achievements at selected races throughout the year were presented to the following; Men - 1st Simon Hodgkiss, 2nd David Bailey, and 3rd Darren Mottram and Ladies - 1st Carol Bird, 2nd Gill Horne and 3rd Joanne Bailey.

After a pie and pea supper and raffle, members and guests played games, partied and danced the night away.

GLH


Biddulph Running Club Awards Evening - January 2018

Biddulph Running Club held its annual Awards evening last Saturday (6th January) at Knypersley Sports and Social Club. The event was well attended and members welcomed the opportunity to ditch their running gear in favour of party clothes and to let their hair down for the evening!

After a pie and pea supper Chairman Kevin Shufflebottom gave a speech in which he summed up the club's successes in 2017. He not only included achievements in marathons, half marathons and other distances but he also reminded the audience of some members participation in even more gruelling races such as the 12 hour Lightening Run, the 24 hour Thunder Run and the hilly 35 mile Gritstone Grind among others. He praised the graduates of the 2017 "New to Running" course and thanked the committee for their support over the past year.

The prize winners (club members who had collected the highest number of points from the club championship races over the year) were: Men; 1st David Maydew, 2nd Jonathan Horne and 3rd Graham Fisher and Ladies; 1st Carol Bird, 2nd Rachel Hollins and 3rd Karen Macintosh. Two members received the Chairman's award and these were Ian Fothergill and Gill Horne.

The evening's entertainment continued up until midnight with party games and a disco.

The next event on Biddulph's calendar is the club's own race; the Knype Pool Charity race and Fun Run. This exciting 5 mile multi-terrain race and 1 mile fun run, which is in aid of the Biddulph Mayors charities, will be held at Knypersley Pool on 25th February 2018. Places are selling out fast so enter now at the clubs web page (www.biddulphrunningclub.co.uk) to avoid disappointment! GLH


Biddulph Running Club goes Christmas Crackers - December 17

More than twenty members of Biddulph Running Club endured freezing temperatures last Sunday (17th) to run the Christmas Cracker race which is hosted every year by Staffordshire Moorlands AC. Starting from the Visitor Centre at Tittesworth Reservoir, the 8 mile run usually takes runners up and across the Roaches. Due to the dangerous conditions this year however the route was changed and the race took place over 5 miles of tracks around Tittesworth Lake itself.

Most of the runners entered into the joyful spirit of Christmas and had turned up for the race in Christmas fancy dress. Biddulph put on a colourful display choosing the Nativity as their theme. There were shepherds, sheep, a king, and some angels and half way around the course Biddulph's Mary and Joseph (Karen Murphy and Kevin Shufflebottom) were blessed with a child which thankfully turned out to be a boy!

Needless to say the Biddulph group won the team fancy dress trophy for 2017 having had an amusing and enjoyable run.

Biddulph Running Club meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening at Biddulph Leisure Centre. New members are always welcome so why not make a New Year's resolution to join us in 2018.


All About November... - November 17

Conwy half marathon (19th Nov) has always been a favourite race for many Biddulph Running Club members. The gruelling climb up the Great Orme is considered to be well worth the effort in return for the stunning sea views that can be enjoyed from the highest point. This year was no exception and nine valiant souls braved the chilly November weather to run the now familiar 13 mile route which took them from the Quayside in front of historic Conwy Castle, through Llandudno, up and around the Orme then back to the finish line. The Biddulph runners were well supported by friends, family and other club members. These included some past members of the club; Alan Roberts (retired club chairman), Helen Roberts (retired club secretary) and Lynda Moss (retired club treasurer). They displayed a "Run Biddulph Run" banner (pictured) and gave the team a huge and much appreciated cheer as they ran past.

The club runners had an enjoyable race and achieved some excellent times; David Maydew (1:31:03), Rachel Hollins (1:37:50), Kevin Shufflebottom (1:42:58), Graham Fisher (1:55:03), Heidi Stanway (1:55:49) Robert Minton (1:55:49), Tracy Shufflebottom (2:11:29), Alison Husbands (2:16:40), Ian Fothergill (2:23:27).

Earlier in the month (4th November) two club members took on the Cheshire 10k at Arley Hall. The race, which attracted well over 1000 runners, was run around the (muddy) traffic-free rural lanes of the Arley Hall Estate. The course, which is fairly flat, is deemed to be one of the fastest road races in the UK. Rachel Hollins and Gill Horne had a good race (with Horne managing to gain a personal best) and both were very pleased with their results. Their times were; Hollins (43:54) and Horne (54:28).

The Cheddleton 10k Christmas Pudding race and the Wilmslow Festive 10k took place last weekend (25th and 26th November). Karen Macintosh, Graham Fisher and Karen Murphy turned out for the first of these on a freezing cold, snowy, wintery afternoon. Cheddleton's 10k race involved three very hilly laps of the village with runners being entertained half way up the steepest hill by a cheerful performance of bagpipe music. All participants received a delicious Christmas pudding as their prize on finishing. The trio completed their 10k in the following times; Macintosh (57:39), Murphy (55:05), Fisher (57:29).

Not content with one race in a weekend Karen Murphy went on to run the Wilmslow 10k on the Sunday. This was a fast, flat, point to point route which took place in and around the centre of Wilmslow. This time she was joined by club members Nicola Hughes, Helen Quinn, Patricia Bolton, and Kevin Stone. Nicola Hughes is one of the Biddulph's new runners who only started running this September having taken part in the club's "New to Running" course. This was Nicola's first 10k race, so very special to her, and the club is really very proud of her outstanding achievement. The Biddulph team finished in the following times Murphy (54:12), Hughes (1:23:33), Quinn (1:23:40), Bolton (1:20:26), Stone (50:29).

Biddulph Running Club continues to meet every Tuesday and Thursday evening (6.30pm) at Biddulph Leisure Centre. New members are always welcome. See the club website for further details www.biddulphrunningclub.co.uk or simply come along on any club night.

Looking ahead to next year - Biddulph Running Club is pleased to announce it will again be hosting its annual event - the Knype Pool Charity race and Fun Run. This exciting 5 mile multi-terrain race and 1 mile fun run, which is in aid of the Biddulph Mayor's charities, will be held at Knypersley Pool on 25th February 2018. Enter now to avoid disappointment! GLH


Letter from a N2R runner...

"Six weeks ago I could not and had not run more than 100 yards in my adult life (I am 61 years).

My daughter had joined Biddulph Running Club about a year ago and enjoyed the benefits. She was keen to share these benefits with friends and family and signed me up for 'new to running'. Six weeks on I have just run a 5k in 40 mins.

However there is much more to just running when you join Biddulph Running Club. I've found I'm running with a very sociable group of individuals. The established members are really very supportive to new novice runners. The encouragement is amazing. The benefits to one's health are outstanding. I've just lost an inch from my waist. I feel fitter. After a good run I feel 'all is well with the world' so a real stress buster. I'd like to say a big thank you to Biddulph Running Club, the individuals who have suggested and encouraged me, Kevin, Jon, Simon and Karen also that daughter of mine - thank you.

I'd encourage anyone and everyone to join a running club. If you live in or around Biddulph and you really want to feel better in yourself, give the six weeks new to running a try and I bet you find a whole new meaning to exercise."


And that was October ... - October 17

Ten graduates of Biddulph Running Club's 2017 New to Running course assembled at Knypersley Pool last Sunday to complete their 5k celebration challenge. The run marked the end of six weeks of training which took participants from zero up to 5k while they followed a carefully structured training plan with the help of the club's qualified run leaders.

The run was started and timed by Running Group Leader Dawn Addison Moss and Club Chairman Kevin Shufflebottom and the route took the runners all the way round the reservoir in a figure of eight. Plenty of club members turned up on the morning to run with the group and to support them along the route. The new runners did themselves proud. All had a really great run. They completed the challenge with no problems and all finished with smiles on their faces. The celebrations continued with a drink and the presentation of certificates and run times.

The times were Stephen Tunstall 32:39, Bev Hamilton 35:32, Kim Carter 35:24, Emma Reay 43:08, Nicola Hughes 37:46, Nicola Walton 37:19, Vanessa Harvey 35:33, Beverley Holding 40:28, Laura Clowes 37:20.

All of the new runners were very happy with what they had achieved and the following comments were just a few of many received as feedback from the course; "All abilities will conquer this course, it's not about speed it's about reaching your personal goal", "The benefits to one's health are outstanding", "I feel fitter" and (running is a) "real stress buster", "I'd encourage anyone and everyone to join a running club". "I didn't actually think I would ever be able to run 5k!! So pleased I kept coming to the end" (of the course).

The club is delighted with the new runners' success and the course is set to run again in 2018.

Over the next few weeks the group will gradually integrate into the usual club training runs which are Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6.45 from Biddulph Leisure Centre.

Earlier in October (8th) Andy Eptlett represented Biddulph at the Bournemouth marathon. This race has been billed as "running as it should be" with "beautiful coastal views" and it didn't disappoint. Andy finished this race in 4:54:50. Another club member, Calum Kidd, completed his first ever marathon last weekend (29th) in Dublin and managed a very creditable time of 03:55:08.

A couple of local races attracted a few more Biddulph runners to don the team colours last month. Peter Sherratt achieved a personal best at Werrington 10k on October 15th (in spite of it being an undulating course) with a time of 47:21. Stephanie Butler and Sarah Cartwright competed in the Manchester half marathon on October 15th where they both did extremely well and had an enjoyable run. Butler (running her first half marathon) finished in an amazingly fast time of 01:49:35 and Cartwright achieved 02:05:00.

The Lakeland Trails series attracted three more club runners to head northwards once again (14-15th October). Rachel Hollins, Jon Horne and Gill Horne braved the inclement weather and tough terrain of the Lake District to run the Helvellyn Trail races on the Saturday. Rachel had put in for the "dirty double" that weekend so this also included the Ullswater Trail race (another gruelling 15K amid spectacular scenery) on the Sunday as well. The team achieved the following times. Helvellyn; Hollins (15k race) 01:22:41, J. Horne (15k challenge) 1:23:58, G.Horne (10k run) 01:03:15. Ullswater; Hollins (15k race) 01:15:22.

Biddulph Running Club meets every Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6.45pm and at other times and places by arrangement. The winter programme has now started and this involves mainly road routes (of around 10k) but also includes some off road trail runs by torchlight and some track speed-work training sessions at Northwood Stadium. All details may be found on the club's homepage at www.biddulphrunningclub.co.uk. GLH.


Club Championships 2015

The club have had a successful Club Championship campaign with the below picking up awards on the evening:

Men's Results

1st - David Maydew - 2nd - Steve Jones - 3rd - Sean Greeves

Women's Results

1st - Laura Venables = 2nd - Karen Mackintosh - 3rd - Karen Murphy

Joint Chairman's Award

Rachel Hollins & Shaun Giltrap


AGM - January 2015

This year's AGM carried far more importance to the running club than those of the last few years : After 7 years in the post John Lovatt stepped down from the role of club chairman and, with the same length of service, Christine Andrew stepped down from her role as club secretary. As everyone is aware, without named members in these roles the club is not recognised by England Athletics or indeed other running clubs. BRC would like to thank both John and Christine for all their work during the past seven years - effectively saving the club from folding when it found itself in a similar position in 2008. Stepping up to the task at the AGM were two volunteers ......

Kevin Shufflebottom was elected the new chairman and Rachel Hollins was elected club secretary. BRC would like to thank both of these members for keeping the club a viable entity. Best wishes to you both in your new roles. A full listing of the 2015 committee will be posted shortly on the contact_us page.

Here are a couple of pics from the AGM.

John hands over to Kev Shuff : photo TS, Jan 2015

Christine and John looked pleased with their farewell gifts: Photo TS, Jan 2015


London Marathon 2015 - club place draw: 30 October, Roaring Meg, Biddulph

The club has been given 3 places for next year's London Marathon. Priority is given to those who applied for a standard ballot place but were unlucky on that draw. Five names went into the proverbial hat :

The first 3 names drawn were:

Niamh R

Christine A

Sean G.

Good Running Everyone - hope it all goes well! Look forward to hearing of your experience.

Former and Current BRC Chairmen. 10 London Marathons Between them. Photo :TS, at the Roaring Meg.


Knype Pool 5m Charity Race & 1m FUN Run

Many thanks to everyone who competed and helped out.

FULL 2014 RESULTS (finalized)

Total Funds Raised

£1383.50!

50/50 Split between the two Mayor's Charities.

Knype Pool Race committee members hand over cheque for £1383.50 to Mayor Linda Deaville for donation to Donna Louise Trust and Staffs Moorlands Cancer Care (Biddulph Branch). March 2014.


New to Running - graduation 5k run, March 2014

Well done to all our new runners who attended the latest daytime New2Running. Here are the 7 who completed their 5k celebration run around Knypersley Pool on Saturday 1st March 2014. They worked hard and went from 0 to 5km in 7 weeks.

Running Leader Julie Harris (centre) with Kev ( King of Pacing) Shuff far left.

5k times as follows...

Andrea Bailey 32.58

Sharon Taylor 33.15

Patricia Gibson 35.57

Lisa Lomas 39.57

Nicola Oliver 40.21 (take off 1 minute for slight detour!)

Ellen McMillan 40.21 ("""")

Kerry Williamson 46.57


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