Race reports
Race reports
Striders shine in the sun at Sutton
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances in the Sutton 10 kilometre road race on Sunday, which was the first event in this year’s Surrey Road League. Their men’s team were eighth, while their women placed ninth.
Striders were led home by Damian Macenhill, who placed 40th in 38 minutes 50 seconds. He was closely followed by Ian Campbell, who finished 42nd (38.58). Club secretary Chris Morton was 54th (40.14), while Alistair Price completed the scoring team, placing 61st in a personal best 41.04, just one place and two seconds ahead of club colleague Mick Turner. Simon Ambrosi was 71st (41.40) with Dave Batten 73rd (41.43) and Steve Massey 84th (42.55).
Striders’ women were led home by Josephine Thompson who placed 29th in the women’s race (45.25). Susannah Oliver was 61st (51.37) and completing the scoring team was Sarah Hansbury in 72nd (53.14). Also finishing were Kim Ford 89th (57.02) and Pat Edwards 92nd (57.13).
Bob power walks to a new club record for Striders
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances in their first Southern Veterans league match of the season, at Kingsmeadow Stadium. Despite a lack of numbers, they finished a close fourth of the six clubs in the match, only six points behind third-placed Kingston.
Justin Macenhill ran well to win the over-35 1500 metres by more than six seconds (4.27.1), having earlier placed second in the 400 metres (58.0). Also in the 1500 metres, Colin Cotton placed second in the over-60 race (5.44.5) while Alan Dolton was second in the over-50 race (5.30.4) and Mick Turner was second in the over-35 B race (5.31.7).
Striders also gained good points in the 2000 metre walk, where Bob Ewen placed second in a new club record of 11.54.8. Mick Turner won the B race (12.11.3), while Dave Hoben was third in the over-50 race (13.04.9).
Dave Batten ran well to win the over-50 400 metres, setting a club over-55 record of 67.6 seconds. He was also fourth in the over-50 100 metres (15.3) and long jump (2.74). Kevin Burnett, the oldest member of the team, was fourth in both the over-50 shot (5.96) and the hammer (12.97). Dave Lovell was fourth in the over-35 long jump (3.55) and fifth in the 100 metres (14.4), while Justin Macenhill was fourth in the shot putt (6.62).
Striders’ 4 x 100 metre relay team of Macenhill, Batten, Turner and Burnett finished the evening by taking third place (62.5).
Striders produce star performances at London Marathon
Striders of Croydon had 17 finishers in the London Marathon on Sunday. Their first man home was also their youngest finisher, Iain Harrison, who ran 3 hours 01 minute 36 seconds, moving him into 19th place in Striders’ all-time club rankings. Damian Macenhill was next for Striders in 3.08.08, and was followed by Ian Campbell (3.08.58), Simon Ambrosi (3.28.13), Robert Clancy (3.43.48) and Phil Mazur (3.51.41). Striders’ first woman home was Stephanie Gilmour who ran well to finish in 3 hours 53 minutes 19 seconds.
However probably Striders’ best performance of the day came from club treasurer Robin Jamieson, who set a new club over-60 record of 3 hours 53 minutes 56 seconds, breaking the previous club record by more than ten minutes.
Striders’ other finishers were: Alan Purchase 3.58.16; Susan Haynes 4.43.28; Isabelle Kita 4.46.38; Julie Shew 4.47.59; Liz Orange 4.57.54; Anne Eldridge 5.11.32; Steve Tyler 5.11.37; Andy Thatcher 5.44.21; Jacqui Mazur 5.48.34.
Striders also had two finishers in the Under-17 mini-marathon. Nicholas Batten covered the three-mile course in an encouraging 17 minutes 48 seconds, while club colleague Sophie Shaw ran 22 minutes 57.
Suzy strides up all-time rankings in Kent race
The Macenhill brothers again led the way for Striders of Croydon at the Paddock Wood Half-Marathon last week. Justin Macenhill was first home for the club, running well to place 27th of the 1630 finishers in 1 hour 18 minutes 59 seconds. His elder brother Damian was less than two minutes behind, finishing 41st (1.20.37). Mick Turner again ran well with 1.29.16, while club secretary Chris Morton ran 1.29.43. Ian Yates recorded 1.33.50 while his wife Suzy had an excellent run to lead Striders’ women home with a personal best 1.35.50, lifting her to ninth place on the club’s all-time rankings. She was followed home by Kerry Backshell (1.37.02).
Striders’ other finishers were: Steve Massey 1.40.47; Brian Hicken 1.40.47; John Humphries 1.43.20; Paul Weir 1.48.07; Anne Eldridge 2.22.01
Colin's class proves age is no barrier in 10 mile record
Striders of Croydon’s veteran distance runner, Colin Cotton, produced a good performance in the Maidenhead 10 mile road race. He set a new club over-60 record of 71 minutes 16 seconds, and was the third over-60 finisher in a strong field which incorporated the Berkshire Championships.
Striders’ first man home was Justin Macenhill who placed 38th in 60 minutes 3 seconds, His elder brother Damian was not far behind, placing 45th in a personal best 60 minutes 36. Simon Ambrosi was 86th (63.50) with Mick Turner 163rd (68.05), Chris Morton 165th (68.27) and Neil Furze 211th (70.17).
Matt stars twice on busy Saturday
Striders of Croydon produced a good team performance to place fourth in the East Surrey League’s annual road relay, held at Box Hill on Saturday afternoon. They had made a cautious start with team manager Chris Morton covering the first of the 2.1 mile legs in 13 minutes 32 seconds. However Justin Macenhill moved rapidly through the field on the second leg, running 11 minutes 15, and his brother Damian continued the team’s improvement with 11 minutes 49 on the third leg. On the final leg Matt Morgan ran 11 minutes 37 to overtake local rivals Croydon Harriers. This was a particularly good run by Matt, as in the morning he had placed second in the Banstead Woods 5 kilometre time trial, recording a personal best of 17 minutes 45 seconds. Striders’ fastest woman at Box Hill was Josephine Thompson who helped the B team to ninth place.
The Macenhill brothers showed good powers of recovery to be Striders’ first two finishers at the Hastings Half-Marathon on Sunday. Damian gained a rare victory over his younger brother, recording 1 hour 22 minutes to finish in 57th place, half a minute ahead of Justin. Mick Turner, who had run for the club’s B team at Box Hill on the previous day, also ran well to record 1 hour 31 minutes 38 seconds. Striders’ other finishers were: Alan Purchase 1:37:23; Robin Jamieson 1:47:10; Tina Macenhill 1:49:27; Paul Weir 1:53:06 ; Stephanie Noyce 1:54:44; Amalia Da Silva 2:03:06; Isabella Kita 2:08:51; Mark Armstrong 2:10:28; Rebecca Da Silva 2:10:28; Tom Stevens 2:11:22; Steve Tyler 2:17:05; Andy Thatcher 2:17:30; Jacqui Mazur 2:28:32; Angela Taylor 2:35:36
James wins again, this time on home soil
Striders of Croydon’s leading distance runner, James Buchanan, gained his second successive victory in the Croydon Harriers Inter-Club match at Lloyd Park last Saturday. He covered the undulating 10 kilometre course in 37 minutes 48 seconds, more than a minute ahead of the runner-up, Vic Maughn of Herne Hill.
Striders placed second in the team event, which was won by Veterans AC. Striders’ second man home was John Foster who ran well to place seventh (43.53), with team manager Chris Morton not far behind in ninth (44.26). Kerry Backshell was the first woman to finish and placed 13th overall in 48.35. She was closely followed by Alan Dolton (14th, 48.47); Mick Turner (15th, 48.52) and Josephine Thompson (16th, 49.22). Tom Littlewood finished 21st (54.09).
In the separate women-only 5 kilometre race, Striders’ Natalie Osher placed fourth. The race was won by Jane Searle of Croydon Harriers.
First win for Striders' James Buchanan in speedy 10K
Striders of Croydon’s leading distance runner, James Buchanan, gained his first win for the club when he placed first of about 750 competitors in the Hotelympia 10K in Canning Town on Sunday. His time of 33 minutes 44 seconds saw him finish well clear of his nearest rival and placed him fifth on the club’s all-time rankings.
Earlier, James had produced Striders’ fastest time of the day in the East Surrey League’s annual cross-country relay at Wimbledon Common. He placed second on the first leg, covering the two-mile course in 10 minutes 14 seconds, which was the sixth fastest time of the day. Unfortunately, Striders were without their other leading runners and the remainder of their team consisted entirely of veterans. Team manger Chris Morton ran 12 minutes 02 while Mick Turner ran 12.18 and Alan Dolton ran 12.36. The team finished seventh.
Striders had 24 finishers in the Sussex Beacon Half-Marathon at Brighton on Sunday. Their first man home was Damian Macenhill who placed 46th in 1 hour 22 minutes 18 seconds. Ian Harrison placed 92nd (1.25.20) while Simon Ambrosi was 107th (1.26.02) and Chris Morton 164th (1.27.55). Striders’ first woman to finish was Kerry Backshell who placed 431st overall in 1 hour 35 minutes 35 seconds. The club’s other finishers were: Alan Purchase 1.36.15; Ian Yates 1.37.32; Suzy Yates 1.38.54; Matt O’Hare 1.39.56; Tom Littlewood 1.41.36; Phil Mazur 1.46.39; Tina Macenhill 1.55.34; Karen Peake 1.56.35; Emily Campbell 1.56.48; Michelle Meech 2.05.59; Isabelle Kita 2.06.02; Susan Haynes 2.07.42; Julie Shew 2.09.03; Steve Tyler 2.19.14; JP Lamarque 2.22.52; Andy Thatcher 2.25.54; Jacqui Mazur 2.29.49; Karen Connor 2.32.17; Angela Taylor 2.34.57.
Striders show strength in depth and gain promotion at Richmond Park
Striders of Croydon’s women produced an excellent performance in the final Surrey Women's Cross-Country League match of the season, at Richmond Park on Saturday. They finished third of the 35 teams, to clinch third place in the overall table and gain promotion back to Division One.
Striders were again led by Serena Stracey, who had an excellent run to place ninth of the 137 finishers, covering the undulating 5800 metre course in 24 minutes 01 seconds. Faye Stammers was next home for Striders in 21st, just ahead of club colleague Suzy Yates, with both runners recording 25 minutes 19. Kerry Backshell also ran well for 30th (25.57), and new member Josephine Thompson made an excellent debut to place 35th (26.14).
Striders showed their strength in depth by having the first B and C teams to finish. The B team was led by Steph Upton who was 38th (26.43), closely followed by Andrea Jefferies in 40th (26.52). Susannah Oliver was 66th (29.03) with Linda Daniel 73rd (29.52) and Amalia Da Silva Lima 75th (30.01). Striders’ C team comprised: 79 Louise Gough (30.12); 96 Karen Macenhill (31.25); 101 Karen Peake (31.44); 111 Pat Edwards (32.56); 124 Susan Haynes (34.36).
Meanwhile Striders’ men were competing in their Division Two match in Lloyd Park. 16-year-old Nicholas Batten ran well to gain his second successive victory in the under-17 race, covering the muddy two and a half mile course in 17 minutes 25 seconds. This led Striders to their best-ever position of second place in the final Division Two table. Epsom won with 248.5 points, but Striders’ total of 312 saw them finish ahead of Dorking (335), Kingston (335) and Dulwich (354.5).
Striders’ senior men also did well to finish fourth of the nine competing clubs. They were again led by James Buchanan who continued his improvement to place sixth of the 151 finishers, recording 30 minutes 47 seconds for the five-mile course. Justin Macenhill continued his return to form by placing eighth (31.21), closely followed by Duncan Lancashire in ninth (31.27). Matt Morgan was 36th (33.55) with Simon Ambrosi 57th (35.31) and Darren Piper 59th (35.35). Striders’ next four runners were all veterans. John Foster ran well for 62nd (35.56) with Gerry Crispie 67th (36.13) and Chris Morton 68th (36.17). Ian Campbell, returning to club colours after a long absence through injury, completed the scoring team in 83rd (36.59).
James in top hundred for south of England trial
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the Southern Cross-Country Championships at Parliament Hill Fields on Saturday. Their best performance came from James Buchanan who ran very well to place 89th of the 832 finishers, covering the muddy eight and a half mile course in 54 minutes 18 seconds. Duncan Lancashire also ran well for 203rd (58.07) with Darren Piper 396th (64.03) and Simon Ambrosi 422nd (64.43). Team manager Chris Morton was 437th (65.04) with Neil Furze 606th (70.07) and Paul Weir 807th (85.09). Striders placed 41st out of the 86 complete teams.
Striders’ only competitor in the women’s race was Suzy Yates who placed
195th of the 326 finishers, covering
the five-mile course in 45 minutes 05 seconds.
Simon Ambrosi's report from Parliament Hill
On Saturday I took part in the South of England cross country Championships in Parliament Hill. The weather was much nicer than it had been for the London Championships last month, with clear blue skies and a reasonable temperature for this time of year. I bumped into my Striders team mates hanging around in the underground looking shifty so didn't have to worry about getting lost on the walk to the race. It's great to see the professionalism of our team as James (our speedy runner for the day) was bouncing around like a schoolboy when he saw 'Rocket Ronnie' warming up in the park.
We changed in the Lido so as not to intimidate too many of the other runners in the 'elite' changing rooms and got to the course just in time to see the senior ladies finish. It's really difficult to describe how Pippa looked as she came over to wish us luck for the men's race, let's just say the head to toe mud covering isn't one of her best outfits (but who cares when you come 65th out of 326 of the best women in the South of England!!) I didn't see Viv or Su but I'd love to hear how they 'enjoyed' the course. Suzy Yates wasn't going to be beaten by her cold and put in a great performance to come 195th for Striders and was obviously loving every minute of it as she was able to speak as she started her second lap, something along the lines of 'this is the worst race ever!'
Ok, now for the men's race!! Race strategy, start at the back and then you can't get overtaken by anyone. I didn't realise how many people were actually taking part (832 finished) but the start line seemed to be about a mile long. It started uphill through mud, along a flat bit of mud and then downhill through some more mud. There must have been lorries driving through the night from Croydon to Parliament Hill as they managed to get the same 'wrong type of mud' that we had for the Surreys. By the end of the first lap of 3 my calves were burning and I had mud splattered on my face. The quality of runners was amazing but we still had great performances from Phil and Nick doing their bit for L&G (and their clubs). James was happy cos he managed to overtake 'the rocket' who is actually a very good (and hairy) runner, coming 189th for some Essex club. I managed 422nd which I was pleased with and was nicely nestled between Darren and Chris from Striders with Duncan a bit further ahead and Neil and Paul not too far behind, making Striders 41st team out of 86 in the whole of the South of England!!
After the race we retired to the pub, after me and Darren froze our feet off buying commemorative hoodies, where it all just went down hill. I left the pub at 7 to go and meet someone so was a bit surprised to be at the bar buying another round at 10 past 7. Paul repeated this trick a while later after leaving to go home to the missus! At 9:26 Chris declared he was drunk and began operation 'steal the men's team trophy from the table the other side of the pub'. Not complete success but he did manage to get a photo of him with the cup!! So all in all a successful day!! Full results below.
http://mcs.open.ac.uk/mkac/08seaaxcall.htm
Skippy
Striders women maintain promotion push
Striders of Croydon’s women produced another good team performance in the third Surrey Women's Cross-Country League Division Two match of the season, at Reigate on Saturday. They finished third of the 33 teams and, with just one match remaining, have an excellent chance of promotion back to Division One.
Striders’ women were led home by Serena Stracey, making a welcome return after injury. She placed 13th of the 130 finishers, covering the undulating four-mile course in 27 minutes 27 seconds. Faye Stammers also ran well for 21st (28.29), with the improving Suzy Yates just behind in 22nd (28.37). Kerry Backshell was 34th (29.25) and Steph Upton completed the scoring team in 42nd (30.16).
Striders also had the second B team to finish. Andrea Jefferies made an excellent debut to place 50th (31.01). Susannah Oliver was 62nd (32.32) with Linda Daniel 79th (34.11), Amalia Da Silva Lima 89th (35.13) and Louise Gough 96th (35.49).
Meanwhile Striders’ men were competing in their Division Two match at Richmond Park, and finished fifth of the nine competing clubs. They were again led home by James Buchanan, who ran very well to place eighth of the 150 finishers, covering the five-mile course in 28 minutes 40 seconds. Justin Macenhill continued his return to form by placing 16th (29.40) with Duncan Lancashire 27th (30.24) and Damian Macenhill 42nd (31.45). Iain Harrison made a welcome return after a long absence through injury and ran well for 53rd (32.13) with Darren Piper 56th (32.28), Matt Morgan 63rd (32.55) and Simon Ambrosi 65th (33.01). Team manager Chris Morton was 82nd (34.06) with Neil Furze completing the scoring team in 88th (34.22)
Striders also had five non-scorers: 94 John Foster 34.41; 99 Mick Turner 34.54; 115 Steve Smith 36.17; 122 Alan Dolton 36.45; 145 Paul Weir 42.10.
Simon Ambrosi's report from Richmond Park :
Yes, we're already 3 quarters of the way through the Surrey League for this season and I'm already feeling worn out!
The 3rd race was held on Saturday in Reigate (for Div 1 & 2 ladies and Div 1 men) and Richmond Park (Div 2 men). Luckily I was at Richmond Park as it sounds like this was the drier, less muddy and generally nicer course. I got the train to Barnes which is about a mile away so not bad for a jog warm up to the start and discovered this is where The Priory is (unfortunately no vacancies at the moment so may have to wait a bit before checking myself in for my running addiction - addiction, I've not got an addiction!).
There was a good turn out for Striders, most of the team turning out about 5 minutes before the start, that's the professionalism we like to see, but it's all about how you run the race that's important. Fortunately the pre race preparation didn't seem to affect us with lots of good performances. James is just a bit too quick and finished around 8th place with Justin (fully recovered?) 2nd for Striders not too far behind. Next positions were something like, Duncan, Damian, Ian, Darren (still putting his number on as the rest of us were jogging to the start), Matt, Me (making the mistake of giving words of encouragement to Matt when I caught up with him, causing him to speed off like a startled rabbit), Chris and Neil (I don't start too quickly) Furze making up the first team. Not too far behind were Mick, John, Steve, Alan and Paul. Batten Jnr did his bit in the juniors race but don't know how he got on as the end clashed with our start, hopefully he's just getting quicker all the time.
I know Nick Hodges was running but didn't see him and guess he was close to the front if not winning the whole race. There was another familiar Dorking runner, this one taking part in the Surrey League for the first time, who resembled Rob Gill in every way apart from the fact I was only 1 minute 20 secs away from him over the 5 mile course. I have to mention this as it's the closest I'm gonna get, especially as it looks like Dorking will be getting promoted to Div 1 at the end of the season.
Can't find any mens Div 2 results but here are the ladies, with Striders in a comfortable 3rd place overall in Div 2. Good to see Serena is racing again and let's hope no new injuries.
Next cross country for me is the Southerns in Parliament Hill, 15K of 6 inch mud, mud, glorious mud!
James shows his class at Lloyd Park
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the annual Surrey Cross-Country Championships, held at Lloyd Park on Saturday. Their women’s team finished seventh, while their men’s team were tenth.
Striders’ women were led by Faye Stammers who placed 47th, covering the undulating five-mile course in 42 minutes 07. She was closely followed by Suzy Yates who placed 49th (42.30). Susannah Oliver was 57th (45.18) with Emily Campbell 64th (46.55), Natalie Osher 72nd (51.25) and Isabelle Kita 73rd (53.01).
Striders’ men were led by James Buchanan who had an outstanding run to place 24th of the 151 finishers, covering the seven and a half mile course in exactly 48 minutes. Striders’ next man home was Darren Piper who placed 75th (55.16), closely followed by veteran John Foster who was 77th (55.34). Damian Macenhill was 80th (55.54) with Abdul Abdi 84th (56.26) and Simon Ambrosi completing the scoring team in 92nd (57.16). Team manager Chris Morton was 94th (57.19) with Neil Furze 96th (57.55).
Striders’ Nicholas Batten placed 29th in the under-17 race, covering the four-mile course in 30 minutes 32 seconds.
Simon Ambrosi's report from Lloyd Park
Saturday was the Surrey Cross Country Championships in Lloyd Park and was a tough race to start 2008. Lloyd Park is notoriously muddy at the best of times and the mud seemed to be of the extra sticky variety, well that's my excuse anyway.
As I walked to the start I saw the senior women on their second lap and did think Viv was looking a bit slow going up a hill but when I got to the same spot in my race I felt a bit guilty about it as the long grass wasn't helping me find any grip and with a lot of spectators shouting (mainly about my hat) it was a tricky part of the course. While we're on the subject of my hat I'd like to point out that I wasn't wearing my usual racing woolly hat due to an accident before the race and with the added weight and upsetting of my whole balance probably added a few minutes to my time.
Back to the women's race, I didn't see too many people I recognised but was pleased to see Faye doing well for striders with Superstar Suzy Yates hot on her heels. Susannah and Emily also ran well to make up the rest of the team. Pippa finished an impressive 8th overall with Viv in 30th. I'm told Anne was running under her pseudonym Caroline Court and came home in 27th, looks like the marathon training's started, well done Lynda in 61st, a few more races and you'll be battling with the rest of them.
The men's race was 3 x 2.5 mile laps of the course (women's was only 2) and I learnt something very useful in this race, don't start next to Nick Hodges!! I was neck and neck with him all the way until the race started and then felt like I was running backwards. I didn't see Phil at all but heard he was speeding away from the field the whole way to finish 2 and a half minutes in front of 2nd place (but didn't lap me - woo hoo!) The support was great, should be some good photos somewhere! There was the usual battle between Striders with James finishing best for us in 24th. The real battle saw Darren beating the rest of us with an in form John Foster right behind him then a series of Striders, Damian, Abdul (very well run and strong on the last lap), me (lap times were 18, 19, 20 so glad it ended when it did), Chris (speeding up throughout the race), Neil (scarily quick), Mick (back after injury), Steve, Gavin, Tom, Paul W, Brian, Dave D. (All times in the link attached) We came 10th overall and beat Croydon harriers so that's the main thing!
Also impressive for L&G was Andy McDonald (fresh from baby stuff) in 60th, Ken in 113th and John Allen in 148th (I think that was a fair bit quicker than last year).
http://www.belgraveharriers.com/2008/SyXC20080105.xls
Striders women fourth at Nork Park
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the South of Thames Cross-Country Association’s annual championship, held at Nork Park in Banstead on Saturday. Their women’s team did well to place fourth, while their men placed tenth.
Striders’ women were led home by Kerry Backshell who ran well to finish 20th, covering the seven-mile course in 50 minutes 55 seconds. She was closely followed by Suzy Yates who finished 22nd (51.15). Emily Campbell was 35th (55.27) and Kim Ford was 41st (61.46).
Striders’ men were led home by Darren Piper, who placed 72nd of the 135 finishers, recording 42 minutes 42 seconds. Simon Ambrosi was 82nd (43.38) with team manager Chris Morton 84th (43.57). Abdul Rashid Abdi made a promising debut in 86th (44.22) while Neil Furze was 91st (45.20). Steve Massey was 105th (46.52) with Gavin Price 106th (46.54), Richard Edwards 110th (47.59) and Paul Weir 128th (53.49).
Simon Ambrosi's report from Nork Park :
Robin smashes Striders Vets record at windy Epsom
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the South of Thames Cross-Country Association’s annual inter-club cross-country race, held in Richmond Park. Striders’ best placing came from the improving Suzy Yates, who placed 23rd in the women’s race, covering the 5.65 mile course in 43 minutes 39. Club colleague Emily Campbell made her cross-country debut and placed 41st in 48.44. Striders’ men were led by veteran Dave Batten who placed 75th in 35 minutes 49. Team manager Chris Morton placed 89th (37.09) while Gavin Price made his cross-country debut, placing 108th (39.39).
On the following day, Striders’ club treasurer Robin Jamieson set a Striders’ over-60 record of 80 minutes 15 seconds in the Epsom 10-mile road race, finishing 120th of the 229 finishers. Chris Morton, running his second race of the weekend, placed 34th (68.31). Stephanie Upton was 114th (79.11), one place ahead of club colleague Ian Yates (79.20). Suzy Yates also ran her second race of the weekend and placed 124th (80.38).
Serena's welcome return leads Striders to fourth place
Striders of Croydon’s women produced a good team performance in the second Surrey Women's Cross-Country League match of the season, at Cranford on Saturday. They finished fourth of the 21 clubs in the match, lifting them to third in the overall league table.
Striders were led home by Serena Stracey, who is rapidly returning to form after a long absence through injury and ran very well to place 15th of the 119 finishers, covering the six-kilometre course in 23 minutes 39 seconds. Faye Stammers also ran well for 28th (25.22) with Stephanie Upton 33rd (26.06) and Kerry Backshell 38th (26.39). Suzy Yates completed the scoring team in 41st (26.44).
Striders also had the second B
team to finish. They were led home by Sarah Milne who placed 43rd (26.54). She
was closely followed by Suzie Halsall (49th, 27.16) and Susannah Oliver (52nd,
27.26). Amalia Da Silva Lima was 62nd (28.23) with Pat Edwards 98th (31.37),
Louise Mayne 99th (31.45) and Susan Haynes 113th (34.02).
Meanwhile Striders of Croydon’s men’s team faced
strong opposition in their Surrey Cross-Country League Division Two match at
Epsom Downs on Saturday. They had to settle for seventh place from the nine
competing clubs.
Their leading runner was again Duncan Lancashire who ran well to place tenth of the 149 finishers. New recruit James Buchanan made an excellent debut for the club, holding on well to place 13th after an ambitiously fast start. Justin Macenhill, still recovering from a long absence after surgery, also ran well to place 34th, while his brother Damian was 47th. Darren Piper was 61st and veteran Dave Batten again ran well for 63rd. Alex Aronberg was 67th with Chris Morton 73rd, Mick Turner 79th and Neil Furze completing the scoring team in 80th.
Veteran Bob leads sizeable Striders squad
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the East Surrey League’s annual cross-country race, held at Lloyd Park last Saturday. They were led home by veteran Bob Ewen, who ran well to place 23rd of the 100 finishers (and fourth in the over-50 category), covering the five-mile course in 34 minutes 1 second. Next home for Striders was Simon Ambrosi who placed 25th (34.19), closely followed by Dave Batten (26th, 34.21) and Nigel Davidson (28th, 34.36). This placed Striders sixth of the 22 teams.
Striders showed their strength in depth by having the first B team to finish. This team comprised John Foster (35th, 35.37), Chris Morton (37th, 35.44), Damian Macenhill (38th, 36.11) and Mick Turner (42nd, 36.59).
Striders’ first woman to finish was Serena Stracey who had an excellent run to finish 55th overall (and fourth woman) in 38 minutes 11. Suzy Yates made her debut at cross-country and did well to finish 78th (41.45). She was closely followed by Sarah Milne (80th, 42.02) and Kerry Backshell (81st, 42.03).
Newcomers Susie, Gill and Simon help Striders cross country success
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances in the first Surrey Women’s Cross-Country League Division 2 race of the season, held over an undulating seven-kilometre course at Esher on Saturday. Striders placed fifth of the 21 clubs in the division, while they showed their strength in depth by having the second B team. Striders were led by Faye Stammers who ran well to place 25th (33.43), just one place and eight seconds ahead of club colleague Kerry Backshell. They were closely followed by new member Susie Halsall who made an excellent debut to place 28th (33.54). Stephanie Upton was 37th (34.46) and another newcomer, Gill Hardy, completed the A team in 51st place (36.03). Striders’ B team were led home by Amalia Da Silva Lima who placed 75th in 39.03. Their other runners were: 85 Linda Daniel 40.02; 98 Louise Gough 41.32; 101 Pat Edwards 41.49; 106 Louise Mayne 43.07. There were 121 finishers.
Meanwhile, Striders’ men were competing in their Division Two match at Richmond Park. Their under-17s placed fourth of the nine clubs in the division, while their senior men placed sixth. Striders’ under-17s were led by Nicholas Batten, who ran very well to place fourth, covering the undulating four-kilometre course in 17 minutes 7 seconds. Striders’ seniors were led by Duncan Lancashire who placed 12th, covering the five-mile course in 29 minutes 50. Striders’ next finisher was Justin Macenhill, who was making a welcome return to racing after a long absence through injury, and placed 31st (31.29). Veteran Bob Ewen ran well to place 43rd (32.30), while Simon Ambrosi showed good improvement with 50th (33.09). Dave Batten placed 56th (33.30), two places and nine seconds ahead of Darren Piper. Team manager Chris Morton was 60th (33.50) with Matt Morgan 63rd (33.58) and Alex Aronberg 69th (34.15). Club stalwart Nigel Davidson completed the scoring team in 75th (34.50). Striders also had six non-scorers: 79 John Foster 35.04; 82 Mick Turner 35.18; 85 Steve Massey 35.35; 106 Neil Furze 37.31; 116 Brian Hicken 39.00; and 123 Paul Weir 39.49. There were 141 finishers.
Striders also had fifteen finishers in the Cabbage Patch ten-mile road race at Twickenham on Sunday. Their leading finisher was Damian Macenhill who placed 67th in 62 minutes exactly, while their first woman was Serena Stracey who placed 653rd in 80 minutes 51 seconds, one second ahead of club colleague Tina Macenhill.
Exciting finishes in Switchback 5
Christopher Gray just edged out Oxted’s Matthew Readwin to win Striders of Croydon’s annual Switchback 5 race last weekend. In sunny but blustery conditions Christopher completed the 5 mile hilly course in 30 minutes and 53 seconds – just 10 seconds ahead of a strong run from veteran Matthew. In third place in 31.26 was Striders’ vet Bob Ewen who lead the home club’s men’s team to first place. Their other scorers were Mick Turner who finished tenth in 33.37 and Steve Massey who was 13th in 34.25.
The women’s race was equally competitive, with the first three finishers separated by just 10 seconds. Striders own Helen Furze proved the strongest with a superb performance to be first woman home – and 7th overall in the race – in a time of 33.03. Just behind were two young Herne Hill Harriers’ ladies : Helena Laczke in 33.09 and Fiona Love in 33.13. And it was Herne Hill who landed the women’s team prize – their third finisher being Sarah Allen in 39.34.
Their were 45 finishers for this friendly local race that takes place in Lloyd Park and Addington Hills.
Vets50 team lead Striders
relay challenge
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the Surrey Road Relay Championships, held on an undulating three-mile course at Wimbledon on Saturday. Striders’ most successful team was their over-50s, who showed the benefits of regular track sessions by placing fifth of the 11 teams in this category. Bob Ewen ran well to record 17.40 on the first leg, and handed over to Dave Batten who produced an excellent run of 17.13, which was Striders’ fastest time of the day. The team was completed by Alan Dolton (19.57) and Colin Cotton (20.11).
Striders’ senior women also did well to place seventh out of 14 teams. The team comprised Kerry Backshell (20.05), Suzie Yates (21.51), Steph Upton (21.12) and Faye Stammers (20.35). Striders also fielded a B team, who placed 13th. This team comprised Michelle Meech (25.01), Amalia da Silva Lima (23.33), Kerry Backshell (20.33) and Suzie Yates (23.11). Both Kerry and Suzie showed good team spirit by running their second legs of the afternoon to ensure that Striders could finish two teams.
Striders’ over-40 men placed seventh out of eight teams. The team comprised John Foster (18.32), Steve Smith (19.53), Chris Morton (18.36) and Dave Denton (22.01).
Striders’ senior men were without several of their first-choice runners, and had to settle for 17th place of the 18 teams in this category. The team comprised Darren Piper (17.23), Neil Furze (20.10), Mick George (21.06), Nicholas Batten (19.19), Alex Aronberg (17.43) and John Foster (18.43).
Duncan and Dave lead strong Striders at Belgrave 5K
Striders of Croydon produced some very good performances in the Belgrave 5 kilometre road race on Sunday, which incorporated the Surrey Championships and was the final event in this year’s Surrey Road League.
Striders’ first man home was Duncan Lancashire, who continued his comeback from injury with a very good run to place 14th of the 213 finishers, covering the undulating course in 16 minutes 34 seconds. Veteran Dave Batten had an excellent run to win the over-50 category, placing 51st overall in 18 minutes 28 seconds. Tony Sheppard made an encouraging comeback after a long absence through injury, placing 48th (18.21) while Darren Piper was close behind in 52nd (18.29). Club secretary Chris Morton was 61st (19.15) with Alex Aronberg 63rd (19.19) and Mick Turner 71st (19.37).
Striders’ women were led home by the improving Sarah Milne who placed 37th in the women’s race in 23 minutes 36 seconds. Karen Macenhill ran steadily for 51st (25.03), while veteran Pat Edwards completed the scoring team in 65th (27.38). She also placed third in the over-55 category.
In the Surrey Championships team event, Striders’ men placed seventh of the 15 competing clubs, while their women placed ninth.
Duncan makes welcome return to Striders
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances against strong opposition in their final Rosenheim League match of the season, at Tooting on Wednesday. Their man of the match was Duncan Lancashire, who made an excellent return to the team after a long absence with a knee injury. He showed his versatility by taking third place in both the 400 metres (59.2) and 3000 metres (9.34.0).
Matt O’Hare placed third in the javelin (29.42) and fourth in the shot (7.95), both these marks being new club over-35 records. Fourth places also went to Dave Lovell in the 100 metres (13.8) and Darren Piper in the 1500 metres (4.51.7). Striders placed fifth of the six competing clubs, and finished the season in fifth place in the overall league table. Their women held on to fourth place despite forfeiting the final match.
Veteran Dave leads Striders at Elmbridge
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition at Sunday’s Elmbridge 10 kilometre road race, which was the fourth race in this season’s Surrey Road League. Striders’ first man home was veteran Dave Batten, who placed 56th of the 525 finishers, and fourth in the over-50 category, recording 38 minutes 52 seconds. Bob Ewen also ran well for 78th (39.44), with Damian Macenhill close behind in 81st (39.58). Club secretary Chris Morton was 114th (41.17).
Striders’ first woman home was Karen Macenhill who ran 51 minutes 44, placing 330th overall. Her sister-in-law Tina Macenhill ran 55.01 for 381st, while Susan Haynes completed the team, running 59.46 for 441st.
Other Striders to finish were: 168 Barry Finch 43.50; 192 Simon Ambrosi 44.55; 195 Steve Smith 45.10; 233 Mick George 47.08; 301 Paul Weir 50.32; 312 Tom Littlewood 51.02; 339 Martin Gourlay 52.26; 346 Matt Anderson 52.51
Striders busy on track and field
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances against strong opposition in their Rosenheim League match at Tooting on Wednesday. Samantha White made an excellent debut, placing third in the women’s shot with a club record of 6.96 metres. She also placed third in the discus (17.31). With a depleted team, Striders’ women had to settle for fifth place in the match, but remain fourth in the overall table.
Striders’ men also placed fifth of the six competing clubs. Matt O’Hare took third place in the discus with a club record 21.05 metres, and also placed fourth in the shot (7.27). Matt Morgan ran well for third in the 1500 metres (4.24.7), while Nicholas Batten was fourth in the 800 metres in a club under-17 record of 2.19.9. Veteran Bob Ewen was fourth in the 3000 metres (10.52.7). Darren Piper set a club over-35 record in the 200 metres (26.9), finishing sixth against younger opponents.
Striders also produced some good performances in their final Southern Veterans League match of the season, at Croydon Arena on Monday. Their best event was the 2000 metre walk, where Dave Hoben placed second in the over-50 race while Mick Turner was third in the over-35 race. Bob Ewen ran well for third in the over-50 800 metres (2.29.1), while Dave Batten placed third in the over-50 triple jump (7.29) and fourth in the 200 metres (28.9). For the over-35s, Steve Smith was fourth in the steeplechase (14.08.4) while Dave Lovell was fourth in the 200 metres (28.5). Striders’ men placed fourth of the seven competing clubs, and also finished fourth in the final league table. Striders’ women finished sixth. Karen Macenhill, better known as a road runner, gained valuable points by making her debut in the discus
.
Dave Batten shows his all-round credentials for Striders
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances in their Rosenheim League match at Tooting on Wednesday. Darren Piper was third in the 400 metres in a club over-35 record of 58.7, while Matt Morgan also ran well to place third in both the 400 metre hurdles (76.2) and the 1500 metres (4.28.9). Nicholas Batten was fourth in the 800 metres (2.21.6) and Bob Ewen was fourth in the 3000 metres (10.35.6). Dave Batten set a club over-50 record of 13.9 for the 100 metres. Striders’ men placed fifth in the match, while their women placed equal third, thanks to Yasmin Ramsay who had another hectic evening with third places in the 200 metres, long jump and javelin.
A week earlier, Striders had an exciting finish to their Southern Veterans League match at Ewell. With only the relay remaining, they were in fifth place, just one point behind Dorking. Striders’ quartet of Dave Lovell, Dave Batten, Steve Smith and Chris Morton responded by finishing one place ahead of Dorking in the relay to place equal fourth in the match. This keeps Striders in fourth place in the overall league table with one match remaining.
Striders’ best event was the 5000m where Bob Ewen, competing against younger opponents, ran 18 minutes 17.7 to place third in the over-35 A race. Chris Morton was third in the B race (20.25.5), while Alan Dolton was second in the over-50 race (20.11.3). Dave Batten ran well to place third in the over-50 400 metres (63.6).
Striders had 25 finishers in the ‘Dysart Dash’ 10 kilometre race on Sunday, which was the third race in this year’s Surrey Road League (although it included a stretch of muddy towpath). Striders’ first man home was Justin Macenhill who placed 14th of the 400 finishers in 35 minutes 29 seconds. Striders’ next two runners were both veterans, with Dave Batten placing 62nd (39.04) and Bob Ewen 76th (39.40). Club secretary Chris Morton was 92nd (40.25) and Simon Ambrosi ran a personal best 40.39 for 98th.
Striders’ first woman was Kerry Backshell who placed 34th in the women’s race in 45 minutes 10. She was followed by Karen Macenhill (72nd, 50.48), Yasmin Ramsay (87th, 52.57), Kim Ford (91st, 54.43), Pat Edwards (101st, 55.42) and Jacqui Mazur (126th, 64.24).
In the team event, Striders’ men placed eighth of the 22 clubs competing, while their women were tenth.
Yasmin takes Striders to third place at Tooting
A very good all-round performance by multi-eventer Yasmin Ramsay took Striders of Croydon’s women to third place in the third Rosenheim League match of the season, held on Wednesday at Tooting Bec. In her first 400 metre race, Yasmin was unfortunate to be drawn in lane eight, but ran well to finish a close second, leading for most of the way before being overtaken by Serpentine’s Jennifer Bradley in the last few metres. Yasmin also showed her versatility and team spirit by taking third place in the discus and fourth in the high jump.
Striders’ men faced strong opposition and had to settle for sixth place in their match. Their leading scorer was veteran Dave Lovell who competed in five events. He placed fifth in the 100 metres, 200 metres, high jump and triple jump, and also ran in the 4 x 200 metre relay team. Matt Morgan placed fourth in the 3000 metres (9.42.1) and fifth in the 800 metres (2.15.2), while Matt O’Hare was fourth in the discus (20.01) and fifth in the hammer (18.75), Veterans Dave Batten and Bob Ewen both had to compete against much younger opponents, and placed sixth in the 400 metres and 1500 metres respectively.
At the halfway stage of the season, Striders’ women are fourth in the league table, while their men are fifth of the six clubs in the division.
Striders Vets survive the heat at Dorking
Striders of Croydon faced hot conditions and strong opposition in the Dorking 10-mile road race on Sunday, which incorporated the Surrey Championships. Their men’s team finished 14th, while their women were 16th.
Striders were again led home by Justin Macenhill, who placed 27th of the 600 finishers, recording 62 minutes 48 seconds. This showed excellent powers of recovery as only a week earlier he had run a personal best of 2 hours 48 minutes 53 seconds in the Edinburgh Marathon, lifting him to sixth place in Striders’ all-time rankings.
Striders’ second runner at Dorking was veteran Dave Batten who placed 84th (69.06). Darren Piper was 128th (72.38) while veteran Barry Finch completed the scoring team in 155th (75.08).
Striders’ women were led home by Kerry Backshell who was 33rd in the women’s race (78.25). Sarah Milne was 99th (88.54) while Karen Macenhill was 119th (93.58) and Yasmin Ramsay completed the scoring team in 135th (97.39).
Striders had an impressive total of 20 finishers. Their other runners were: Steve Smith 75.13; Simon Ambrosi 78.46; Bas Sharif 81.08; Phil Mazur 81.30; Tom Littlewood 83.28; Greg Evans 87.27; Paul Weir 88.54; Robin Jamieson 88.54; Martin Gourlay 96.55; Matt Anderson 97.48; Susan Haynes 1.41.41; Jacqui Mazur 1.56.32.
Kevin claims medal haul in busy track & field week for Striders
Four of the oldest members of Striders of Croydon gained medals at the Surrey Veterans Championships at Kingsmeadow on Saturday. Pride of place went to Kevin Burnett who won the over-65 200 metres (37.1) and placed second in the 100 metres (17.5), 400 metres (91.7), shot (6.46), discus (20.86), hammer (18.56) and javelin (18.00).
For the over-50s, Dave Hoben won gold in the 2000 metre walk (20.01.7). Dave Batten gained silver in the 400 metres (64.5) and bronze in the 800 metres (2.21.2), while Alan Dolton took bronze in the 1500 metres (5.15.7).
Striders also produced some good performances in the Rosenheim League on Wednesday evening at Croydon Arena, with two individual wins. Justin Macenhill produced another excellent run to win the 3000 metres in a new club record of 9 minutes 28.7 seconds, outsprinting Surrey veterans’ champion Vic Maughn of Herne Hill. Striders’ other win came from Paul Finch in the high jump (1 metre 45). Matt O’Hare took second in the hammer (19.45) and third in the javelin (27.46). Striders’ men placed fourth of the six competing clubs, just one point behind local rivals Croydon Harriers.
Striders’ women went one better by placing third in their match. Their leading scorer was Yasmin Ramsay who placed second in the 100 metres and third in the javelin. Jo Clarke made an impressive debut for the club, placing third in the 3000 metres (12.43.3).
Two days earlier Striders had done well to place third of seven clubs in a Southern Veterans League match at Croydon Arena. Dave Batten won the over-50 800 metres (2.28.6) and placed second in the 200 metres (28.9). Bob Ewen placed second in the over-50 3000 meters (10.58.4).
For Striders’ women, Kerry Backshell had an excellent run to place a close second in the over-35 3000 metres (12.36.3), only two seconds behind Surrey champion Louise Ioanescu of Dorking. Earlier Kerry had placed fourth on her debut at 800 metres (3.02.6).
For the over-35 men, Dave Lovell was third in the 800 metres (2.32.0) while Steve Smith was fourth in the 200 metres (30.7) and Chris Morton was fourth in the 3000 metres (11.56.1).
Justin places 8th in county half marathon
Striders of Croydon’s leading distance runner, Justin Macenhill, had an excellent run to place eighth in the Ranelagh Half-Marathon last Sunday, which incorporated the Surrey Championships. His time of 75 minutes 42 seconds was less than half a minute outside his personal best. Damian Macenhill placed 67th in 1 hour 25 minutes 08, while Bas Sharif was 256th (1.39.13), Patrick Kilgarriff 432nd (1.49.39) and Steve Tyler 728th (2.12.27). There were 781 finishers.
First win for Striders at Beckenham road relay
Striders of Croydon did very well to finish first of 29 teams in the annual Beckenham Road Relay last Wednesday. Justin Macenhill gave them an excellent start, winning the first leg and covering the 2.6 mile course in 13 minutes 34 seconds. Scott Antony extended the lead by running 14 minutes 05, and club secretary Chris Morton held on to first spot with 16 minutes 16.
Striders also had the second mixed team to finish. Steph Gilmour ran 18.50 on the first leg and Kerry Backshell ran 17.30 on the second leg. Justin Macenhill then ran his second leg of the day with a time of 14 minutes 04.
On the same day, Striders competed in the Rosenheim League at Battersea Park. Their team was weakened by the clash with the Beckenham Relay, but they managed to finish fifth of the six competing clubs. 15-year-old Nicholas Batten ran a personal best 2.24 for fourth in the men’s 800 metres.
On Sunday, Striders competed in the Sutton 10 kilometre road race, which was the first event in this year’s Surrey Road League. Their men placed sixth in the team event while their women placed eleventh. Striders were again led home by Justin Macenhill who ran well to place seventh (34.29). Veteran Dave Batten placed 62nd (39.23) while Darren Piper was 75th (40.24) and Simon Ambrosi was 100th (42.03). Striders’ first woman home was Karen Macenhill who placed 42nd in the women’s race (49.47). Veteran Pat Edwards was 75th (55.23), and Sarah Hansbury completed the scoring team in 93rd (60.42).
Bob wins vets 1500m for Striders
Striders of Croydon began their track season by placing fifth of the seven competing clubs in Monday’s Southern Veterans League match at Kingsmeadow. Striders’ only victory came from Bob Ewen in the over-50 1500 metres (5.15.6). Geoff Pennells placed fourth in the over-35 A race (5.12.3) with Alan Dolton third in the B race (5.16.9).
Dave Batten ran well to place second in the over-50 400 metres (65.7) and third in the over-50 100 metres (14.3). Dave Lovell was fifth in the over-35 100 metres (14.0) and 400 metres A race (66.9). Geoff Pennells, in his first race over 400 metres, ran well for second in the B race (64.9).
Dave Hoben was second in the over-50 2000 metre walk (13.28.9). Mick Turner placed fourth in the over-35 A race (13.01.9) with Alan Dolton third in the B race (14.36.3). Striders suffered from a shortage of competitors in the field events, but team manager Kevin Burnett placed fifth in the over-50 hammer (15.45).
Scott blazes to new Striders marathon record
Striders of Croydon did very well to have 33 finishers in Sunday’s 27th London Marathon. Their best performance came from Scott Antony. Already the holder of several of the club’s track records, he set a new club marathon record of 2 hours 41 minutes 17 seconds, finishing 149th in the race. This was more than three minutes faster than Striders’ previous record, set seven years ago by Gerry Crispie.
Andy Allison also had an excellent run to finish in the top 1000, placing 992nd in 3 hours 3 minutes 16. Damian Macenhill was not far behind (3.04.52), while Paul Finch ran 3.19.03 and veteran Dave Shaw ran 3.24.07.
Striders’ first woman finisher was Kerry Backshell, who placed 368th in the women’s race (3.27.24). Club colleague Stephanie Noyce was 586th (3.36.40).
Striders’ other finishers were: Richard Edwards 3.48.30; Kate Custis 3.48.38; Chris Morton 3.49.12; Tim Bett 3.49.13; Phil Richards 3.52.53; Phil Mazur 4.05.46; John Humphries 4.08.36; Simon Reay-Jones 4.09.26; Patsy Wong 4.13.39; Adam Staniforth 4.15.26; David Gunaratnam 4.17.41; Karen Macenhill 4.26.21; Mick George 4.29.06; Tina Macenhill 4.30.35; Theo Eastham 4.44.40; Sarah Milne 4.46.59; Louise Gough 4.51.16; Yasmin Ramsay 4.51.24; Tom Stevens 5.02.38; Claire Farrugia 5.03.02; Nick Kyritsis 5.04.49; Mark Armstrong 5.05.08; Cara Kayum 5.26.10; Steve Tyler 5.28.33; Jacqui Mazur 5.39.06; Brian Day 6.05.47.
Striders also had two competitors in the Mini-Marathon, held over the last 2.65 miles of the marathon course. Nicholas Batten was 203rd in the Under-17 boys’ race (16.24), while Sophie Shaw was 156th in the Under-17 girls’ race (21.21).
Scott leads Striders to 4th place at Ewell
Striders of Croydon’s leading track runner, Scott Antony, produced an excellent run in the East Surrey League’s annual road race at Ewell last week. He finished fourth of the 100 finishers, covering the 4.2 mile course in 23 minutes 28 seconds.
Striders’ next man home was Matt Morgan who placed 18th (25.04). Paul Finch was 28th (26.30) and Chris Morton completed the scoring team in 31st (26.52). Striders finished fourth in the team event and finished the season by placing fifth in the overall league table.
Striders also had five non-scorers. Simon Ambrosi was 42nd (27.46) with veteran Colin Cotton close behind in 46th (27.57). Neil Furze was 67th (31.04) with Dave Denton 82nd (33.23) and Stephanie Gilmour 84th (33.36).
More than 100 runners lined up in Lambrok Road to compete in the Trowbridge 10K, hosted by Trowbridge Lions and supported by Avon Valley Runners. Duncan Lancashire, formerly of Trowbridge and now running for Croydon Striders, and James Denne, of Honiton Running Club, broke away from the field at an early stage to finish first and second in 36:11 and 36:26 respectively. Trying to close down the gap was Avon Valley's Alistair Bartlett, who had a good run to finish third in 37:41 with former winner Michael Bryant, of AVR, back in sixth place. Bristol and West international runner Amy Chalk, from Calne, won the ladies' race in 38:11 from Joanna King of London Heathside in 38:54.
Young Striders qualify for
mini-marathon
Two of the youngest members of Striders of Croydon did well to qualify for the Croydon Borough team for the London Mini-Marathon, to be held on Sunday 22 April. The trials were held on an undulating and very muddy course in Lloyd Park last Saturday. Striders’ Nicholas Batten ran well to place fourth in the under-17 men’s race, covering the 3300 metre course in 15 minutes 1 second. Club colleague Sophie Shaw won the under-17 women’s race in 18 minutes 49 seconds, finishing 17 seconds clear of her nearest rival.
Striders had 12 competitors in the annual Croydon Harriers inter-club race, held over a ten-kilometre course at the same venue. However, they were without their leading runners and with none of their team finishing in the first ten, they had to settle for third place in the six-to-score team competition. Probably their best performance came from Kerry Backshell who was the first woman to finish, recording a time of 51 minutes 28 seconds and finishing ahead of six of Striders’ men. Striders’ first man home was veteran Nigel Davidson who placed 11th (47.12). Another veteran, Dave Batten, placed 13th (47.50). New member Graham Foster made an encouraging debut with 15th place (49.04). Striders’ next two runners were both veterans, with Geoff Pennells 18th and Alan Dolton 19th.
Striders continue fine form to place third in 20-miler
Striders of Croydon did very well to place third in the team event in the annual Reading Roadrunners 20-mile road race at Bramley in Hampshire last Sunday. Their leading runners were Scott Antony and Justin Macenhill who finished just one second apart, with Scott placing 19th (2.02.27) and Justin 20th (2.02.28). Damian Macenhill completed the scoring trio in 59th place (2.11.10). Andy Allison was 133rd (2.19.21) with Chris Morton 152nd (2.20.47) and Paul Finch 170th (2.23.37). Striders’ leading woman was Karen McDermott who placed 170th in the women’s race (3.08.32). Club colleague Yasmin Ramsay was 192nd (3.17.42).
Other Striders to complete the course were Phil Mazur (478th, 2.51.26), Simon Reay-Jones (575th, 3.00.19) and Steve Tyler (702nd, 3.36.26). There were 726 finishers.
Justin & Scott set Sussex Beacon half marathon alight
Striders of Croydon’s leading distance runner, Justin Macenhill, produced an excellent performance in the Sussex Beacon Half-Marathon at Brighton on Sunday. He finished ninth in a field of more than 3000 runners, recording a new personal best of 1 hour 15 minutes 13 seconds, lifting him to second place in the club’s all-time rankings. Club colleague Scott Antony also ran well to finish 11th (1.16.01), while Ian Campbell ran a personal best 1.20.48 to place 33rd and fifth in the over-40 category. Damian Macenhill placed 50th (1.22.13), with Paul Finch 103rd (1.25.16) and club secretary Chris Morton 185th (1.28.43). Striders’ fastest woman was Natasha Ling who placed 786th overall (1.40.20)
Striders showed their strength in depth with a total of 29 finishers. Their other runners were Steve Smith 1.34.03; Martin Parham 1.34.37; Tom Littlewood 1.37.11; John Humphries 1.37.14; Theo Eastham 1.40.16; Richard Edwards 1.41.59; Phil Mazur 1.44.01; Matt O’Hare 1.44.07; Tina Macenhill 1.48.18; James Mason 1.49.43; Karen Peake 1.51.30; Mick George 1.54.14; Louise Gouch 1.54.44; Karen McDermott 1.55.08; Mark Armstrong 1.55.29; Sarah Milne 1.58.04; Carol Hollingworth 2.05.54; Steve Tyler 2.19.12; Jacqui Mazur 2.21.05; Julie Shew 2.24.43; Karen Connor 2.33.46; Susan Haynes 2.33.46.
Striders finish short of promotion
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the final Surrey Cross-Country League Division Two matches of the season on Saturday. Both their men’s and women’s teams finished fifth in their match and fourth in the overall league table.
Striders’ men were competing at Epsom Downs. They were led home by Justin Macenhill, who had an excellent run to place fifth, his best placing in this division. He covered the undulating five-mile course in 29 minutes 28 seconds. Duncan Lancashire also ran well for 10th (30.33) with Matt Morgan 24th (31.25), Damian Macenhill 44th (32.59), and Andy Allison 45th (33.02). Nigel Davidson was Striders’ first veteran in 55th (33.37), with Bob Ewen 62nd (34.01) and Dave Batten 69th (34.25). Darren Piper was 70th (34.27) and Paul Finch completed the scoring team in 74th (34.37).
Hercules-Wimbledon won the Division Two title with 1478 points, ahead of Wimbledon Windmilers (1530), Dorking (1531), Striders (1727), Epsom (1768), Kingston (1806), Sutton (1946), Walton (2171) and Croydon Harriers (2423).
Striders’ women were competing at Richmond Park. They were led home by Kerry Backshell, who ran very well to place 12th, covering the 5800 metre course in 25 minutes 9 seconds. Faye Stammers was next home in 20th (25.34), with Stephanie Gilmour 31st (27.37) and Amalia Da Silva Lima 50th (29.49). Unfortunately the team were unable to field a fifth runner.
Striders’ men managed a much better turnout with eleven non-scorers: 90 Chris Morton 35.40; 91 Simon Ambrosi 35.44; 110 Colin Cotton 37.57; 114 Barry Finch 38.26; 124 Simon Reay-Jones 40.25; 127 Tom Littlewood 41.26; 129 Peter Shew 41.41; 132 Paul Weir 43.02; 137 Dave Denton 44.53; 139 Matt Anderson 45.44; 142 Dave Hoben 47.38.
Faye and Justin lead Striders in promotion push
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances in their Surrey Cross-Country League Division Two matches on Saturday.
Striders’ women placed third of 17 clubs in their match at Wimbledon Common, and have climbed to joint-third place in the table with one match remaining. Runnymede are leading the division with 239 points, ahead of Kingston (304), Striders (450) and Elmbridge (450), and Epsom Allsorts (553).
Striders’ women were led home by Faye Stammers who returned to form with an excellent run to place 13th of the 94 finishers, covering the four-mile course in 28 minutes 23 seconds. Kerry Backshell also ran well for 21st (29.14) with Stephanie Upton 24th (29.41) and Stephanie Gilmour 38th (31.45). Amalia De Silva Lima completed the scoring team in 49th (32.58), with Linda Daniel 50th (33.03) and Sarah Milne 63rd (34.15).
Striders’ men placed third of nine clubs in their match at West End Common, Esher. Dorking won the match with 314 points, with Wimbledon Windmilers second (379). However Striders’ total of 432 points saw them finish ahead of Epsom (439), Sutton (449), Walton (491), Hercules-Wimbledon (507), Kingston (509) and Croydon Harriers (575). In the overall table Striders are now fourth with one match remaining.
Striders did very well to place four runners in the first 16 of the 146 finishers. Justin Macenhill led them home in sixth place, covering the undulating five-mile course in 28 minutes 19 seconds. Scott Antony was eighth (28.50) with Duncan Lancashire 10th (29.15) and Matt Morgan 16th (30.09). Striders’ next two runners were both veterans, with Ian Campbell 51st (32.22) and club stalwart Nigel Davidson 59th (32.54). Darren Piper was 68th (33.31) with Damian Macenhill 73rd (34.01) and Dave Batten 85th (34.34). Team manager Chris Morton completed the scoring team in 93rd (35.10).
Striders also had six non-scorers: 104 Matt Birchley 36.25; 108 Richard Edwards 36.47; 119 Barry Finch 38.15; 124 Matt O’Hare 39.15; 130 Phil Mazur 40.46; 131 Paul Weir 41.20.
Justin ploughs through the mud for Striders
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the Surrey Cross-Country Championships, held at Lloyd Park on Saturday. Their men’s team did very well to place sixth of the 18 clubs who fielded complete teams, while their women’s team placed eighth.
Striders’ best performance came from Justin Macenhill, who placed 22nd of the 186 finishers, covering the muddy twelve-kilometre course in 47 minutes 57 seconds. Scott Antony also ran well for 31st place (49.57), while Matt Morgan was 52nd (52.45) and Damien Macenhill 58th (53.08). Duncan Lancashire placed 62nd (53.43) and Andy Allison completed the scoring team in 80th (55.14). Striders’ leading veteran was Bob Ewen, who started cautiously but moved steadily through the field to place 96th (57.11).
Striders’ leading woman was Kerry Backshell, who placed 40th of the 98 finishers, covering the eight kilometres in 41 minutes 03 seconds. Faye Stammers placed 53rd (42.19) with Steph Gilmour 76th (45.50) and Amalia Da Silva Lima 94th (53.25).
Striders’ other finishers in the men’s race were: 106 Nigel Davidson 58.25; 116 Chris Morton 59.21; 118 Simon Ambrosi 59.22; 131 Dave Batten 60.49; 145 Matt Birchley 63.10; 157 Richard Edwards 64.55; 165 Simon Reay-Jones 66.38; 171 Matt O’Hare 68.47; 173 Tom Littlewood 70.43; 174 Phil Mazur 71.17; 179 Paul Weir 73.34.
Scott, Duncan and Kerry lead Striders at windy Epsom Downs
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition in the South of Thames Cross-Country Association annual inter-club race, held on Saturday on an undulating course at Epsom Downs which was somewhat longer than the advertised distance of five miles. In the eight-to-score competition for the Brent Shield, Striders did well to place fifth. Striders’ women also placed fifth in their event, despite fielding a relatively inexperienced team.
Striders’ first man home was Scott Antony who ran well to place 29th in 32.48. Duncan Lancashire was close behind in 32nd (33.11), while Darren Piper was 56th (35.06). Veteran Dave Batten had an excellent run to place 77th (36.58). Team manager Chris Morton was 91st (37.55), with Simon Ambrosi 111th (39.32), Steve Smith 118th (40.58) and Alan Dolton 119th (41.01).
Striders’ first woman home was Kerry Backshell who ran well to place 17th of the 40 finishers (41.07). Amalia de Silva Lima was 35th (48.39) with Sarah Milne 37th (52.24), Claire Farrugia 38th (52.58) and Yasmin Ramsay 39th (54.56).
Other Striders in the men’s race were: 125 Richard Edwards 41.50; 131 Simon Reay-Jones 42.35; 132 Matt O’Hare 42.41; 135 Tom Littlewood 43.49; 137 John Gannon 44.20; 142 Paul Weir 45.09; 148 Patrick Chung 47.56. There were 153 finishers.
Steph leads Striders to third place at Lightwater
Striders of Croydon’s women’s team did very well to place third out of 18 clubs in their Surrey Cross-Country League Division Two match at Lightwater on Saturday. Runnymede won the match with 86 points, ahead of Elmbridge (161), Striders (165) and Kingston (167). In the overall table Striders are fourth, just behind Kingston and Elmbridge.
Striders were led home by Stephanie Upton, who placed 15th of the 97 finishers,
covering the four-mile course in 28 minutes 37 seconds. She was closely followed
by Faye Stammers who placed 18th (28.45). Kerry Backshell was 28th (29.25) with
Amalia Da Silva Lima 49th (32.42) and veteran Linda Daniel completing the team
in 55th (33.03). The race was won by Redhill’s highly talented 15-year-old
Sophie Cowper, who ran 25
minutes 31.
Striders of Croydon's men's team did well to finish third of the nine competing clubs in their Surrey Cross-Country League Division Two match at Wimbledon Common on Saturday. Home club Hercules-Wimbledon gained a clear win with 228 points, followed by Wimbledon Windmilers (413), Striders (424), Epsom (432), Dorking (447), Sutton (462), Kingston (492), Croydon Harriers (588) and Walton (609).
Striders were again led home by Justin Macenhill, who ran well to finish ninth. Matt Morgan had his best race for the club and finished 22nd, while new member Dave Archer had an excellent run to place 26th. Duncan Lancashire made a welcome return after a long absence through injury and placed 30th. Scott Antony was 35th with Damian Macenhill 56th and Paul Finch 62nd. Striders’ next two runners were both veterans, with Nigel Davidson 63rd and Bob Ewen 68th. Darren Piper completed the scoring team in 69th place, while Striders showed their strength in depth with eight non-scorers.
Justin breaks more records while Ian capitalises in Amsterdam
Striders of Croydon did well to take third place in the East Surrey League’s annual cross-country race at Lloyd Park last Saturday. Hercules-Wimbledon won the match with 45 points, ahead of Epsom (48) and Striders (55). Striders were again led home by Justin Macenhill, who produced another good run to place sixth, covering the undulating five-mile course in 30 minutes 39 seconds. The next Strider was Matt Morgan was in 14th place (32.53) with Damian Macenhill 15th (33.10) and Paul Finch 20th (33.40). Veteran Bob Ewen was third in the over-50 category (33.48), while club stalwart Nigel Davidson was not far behind (33.58). Barry Finch placed second in the over-55 category (38.38) with Colin Cotton returning after injury to place third (38.58).
Striders’ women were led home by Kerry Backshell, who placed 67th (40.08) and was fourth woman to finish. Yasmin Ramsay was 95th (51.21) and Sarah Milne 96th (51.54).
Striders have also produced some good performances in recent road races. Ian Campbell ran a personal best 2 hours 51 minutes 46 seconds in the Amsterdam Marathon, lifting him to sixth place in the club’s all-time rankings. On the same day Justin Macenhill ran a personal best of 56 minutes 18 seconds in the Cabbage Patch 10 mile road race, placing 19th in a field of more than 1000.
Faye and Steph lead Striders women to good start at Epsom
To those of you who did not
make the event…..it was a run around the Epson race course in excellent running
weather. That is, no mud (Karen !!!), lots if ladies (ooops!) and sunny with a
breeze. The course was a two lap of ‘rolling hill’, totalling 5.5k The ladies
know what I mean by that. A lot of effort put into the event which has paid off
as shown by the results. It was great to see their happy, smiling faces at the
end of the race. I thought that they were happy to see me again but no they
were just happy to have completed. All the team were home in 26 minutes!!!!
The team of six did extremely well to get us off to a great start for the
season. We, that is those who took part on Saturday, are going to get the Ladies
team back into division one at the first attempt this season, so we could do
with some additional runners. We need a minimum of 5 in the team to count but
every additional runner displaces another scoring runner, so come on ladies lets
show Surrey what Striders of Croydon can do.
Team finished in a very respectable fifth place with Faye who set the Strider
pace in 88th with a time on 23:44, Stephanie Upton who made great
strides on Faye in the closing stages to finish in 89th in 23:50.
Kerry kept the pace on the other runners by pushing for the 110th
position in 24:21. Then it was Stephanie Gilmour giving her ‘all’ by arriving in
157th position in the tightest section of the field in 26:02. Linda
Daniel was only a few second behind Stephanie 26:24 and successfully keeping
other runners away from the crucial lower positions by arriving at position
166. Then Amalia do the dirty work of closing the team off by displacing the
remaining runners from other clubs by striding out at the final quarter of a
lap…running like a gazelle to sprint to the finish in a time of 26:54 and 182nd
position.
Well done to Steph Upton, Stephanie Gilmour, Amalia Da Silva Lima, Linda Daniel,
Kerry Backshell and Faye Stammers. (John Ralf)
Solid start for Striders men at Richmond Park
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances to place fourth of nine clubs at the opening Surrey Cross-Country League Division Two match of the season, at Richmond Park on Saturday. Wimbledon Windmilers won the match with 360 points, ahead of Hercules-Wimbledon (399), Epsom (411), Striders (419), Kingston (443), Dorking (481), Sutton (501), Walton (512) and Croydon Harriers (569).
Striders were led home by Justin Macenhill, who ran well to place eighth of the 129 finishers, covering the five-mile course in 29 minutes 30 seconds. Scott Antony also ran well for 23rd (31.04) with Damian Macenhill 30th (31.56). Veteran Bob Ewen had an excellent run to place 42nd overall and second in the over-50 category (32.36). Darren Piper was close behind in 43rd (32.40) with Tony Sheppard 47th (32.52) and Matt Morgan 49th (33.05). John Foster placed 53rd (33.20) with Nigel Davidson 61st (33.35) and Chris Morton 76th (34.37).
Darren leads winning Striders team
Striders of Croydon produced an excellent performance to win the team event at Hercules-Wimbledon’s annual ten-mile road race, held on Sunday on a rain-soaked and hilly course. Striders’ total of 53 points placed them ahead of Serpentine (60) and Hercules-Wimbledon (63), while Striders’ B team did well to take fourth place. Striders were led home by Darren Piper who ran strongly to place 18th in 65 minutes 14 seconds. Striders’ next three runners were all veterans. Club secretary Chris Morton was close behind in 20th (65.27), while Dave Batten also ran well for 26th (67.57) with Alan Dolton 38th (73.31). Paul Weir was 53rd (77.22) and was followed by John Humphries (55th, 77.45); Peter Shew (56th, 78.05); Tom Littlewood (66th, 80.45); James Mason (71st, 81.38); Dave Denton (89th, 87.22) and Patrick Chung (97th, 89.40). There were 123 finishers.
Mike Cummings wins Switchback 5
Striders of Croydon organised their annual ‘Switchback’ five-mile race over an undulating course in Lloyd Park and Addington Hills on Sunday. In unusually hot conditions, the winner was Mike Cummings of Herne Hill. His time of 28.18 placed him exactly a minute clear of second-placed Barry Korro. The first veteran was Graham Hansen (30.32), still running well twenty years after he won the first Croydon 10K. The first woman finisher was Viv Mitchell of South London Harriers (35.01), with Yvonne Hill of Ranelagh second (36.55).
Striders won the team event. They were led home by Bob Ewen, who was the first over-50 runner to finish, placing seventh overall (31.44). Club secretary Chris Morton was 11th (33.34) with Dominic Hawkins close behind in 13th (33.46). Other Striders to finish were: 33 Peter Shew (38.21); 34 Alan Dolton (38.32); 36 John Humphries (38.41); 42 Phil Mazur (39.57); 51 Tom Littlewood (41.25); 54 Dave Denton (42.13); 67 Louise Gough (46.47). There were 80 finishers.
Battens help out in Striders' relays
Striders of Croydon faced strong opposition at the annual Surrey Road Relays, held at Wimbledon Park on Saturday. They had to settle for 13th place out of the 18 competing teams.
Matt Morgan gave Striders a good start, covering the hilly three-mile course in 16 minutes 39 seconds. Justin Macenhill ran the second leg and recorded Striders’ fastest time of the day with 15 minutes 32 seconds. He was followed by John Foster (17 minutes 21), Darren Piper (17 minutes 27) and Dominic Hawkins (18 minutes 24). On the final leg Scott Antony made a welcome return to Striders’ team, running 16 minutes 47 seconds.
Striders’ veterans placed 10th out of 12 teams in the over-40 race. Their best performance came from Dave Batten, the oldest member of the team, who ran the final leg in 17 minutes 18 seconds. The team’s other runners were Chris Morton (18.12), Alan Dolton (19.29) and Dave Denton (22.19).
On the following day Striders competed in the six-stage River Relay over a 31-mile point-to-point course from Virginia Water to Petersham. Striders did well to place 10th of the 40 competing teams. Their team comprised Nicholas Batten, Dave Batten, Matt Morgan, Karen Peake, John Foster and Chris Morton.
Dave Batten keeps up
top Vets form at Wimbledon
Striders of Croydon produced some good performances at the Surrey 5 kilometre
road running championships, held at Wimbledon on Sunday. Their first finisher
was Pawel Bal, who placed 28th in 17 minutes 11 seconds. Damian Macenhill was
60th (18.21), while veteran Dave Batten had an excellent run to place second in
the over-50 category and 63rd overall (18.26). John Foster was 71st (18.46),
Darren Piper 86th (19.22), Chris Morton 87th (19.24) and Nigel Finch 99th
(19.55). Barry Finch was sixth in the over-50 category and 118th overall
(20.17).
Striders’ leading woman was the improving Karen Peake, who placed 34th in the women’s race and 191st overall (24.29).
Veteran Dave
finishes 4th in age group at Elmbridge
Striders were well represented in the Elmbridge 10 kilometre road race on Sunday, which was part of the Surrey Road League. Striders’ men finished ninth, while their women placed 14th. Striders were led home by Pawel Bal who placed 22nd in 35 minutes 52. Veteran Dave Batten again ran well for 56th (38.50) while Dominic Hawkins was 77th (39.52). Barry Finch was 137th (42.44), with Steve Smith close behind in 142nd (42.53) and club chairman John Gannon 157th (43.38).
Striders’ first woman finisher was Kerry Backshell, who placed 34th in the women’s race, recording 44 minutes 18. Karen P