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The Dash
May 2015
Editorial
Wow, its May! How the Sam Hill did that happen?? Last month there was a whole host of stuff going
on the pick of which was probably London. Massive congrats to all who took part. I’m sure that if you
were at home that, like me, you were scanning the masses for Dashers vests. I actually saw one this
year – Janine striding out!
The AGM took place and Chris has covered the events in his new Chairman’s chat as well as sending
the minutes of the meeting in his last act as Secretary. It would be remiss of me not to give my
heartfelt thanks to Stubbsy for his tenure in the hot seat. And it certainly was hot at times...
The recent earthquake in Nepal has been a major talking point in our household and both Cath and I
felt moved to do something to raise funds for aid charities. Cath has posted on Facebook about her
walk which will probably have been and gone by the time you read this. I am trying to organise a
relay run of the height of Everest. I will get a grown up to post details of this on FB once I have
worked out all the fiendish logistics. Please keep an eye out and do your bit.
You will have noticed that it’s a nice thick Dash this month (unless you are reading online of course)
so many thanks to all contributors. Joanne’s account of London at the sharp end is, as usual, very
entertaining. Karen has written a lovely piece on Girl Power and Barry Ross has turned his poetic
skills to Brit pop. All will be revealed within...
In closing can I say Well Done to recent Dasher Keiran McCann on his selection for the Marines and
thanks very much to the Dashers committee for the kind gift of a box of beer at the AGM!
Until next month
Ariba, ariba!
Mr Sparkle
Cover pic: Dashers go Doggetting. Raring to go at the start of the Geoff Doggett
Memorial 5k by Helen Jones.
Chairman’s Chat 1
As the new Chairman I thought that I would continue in the time honoured tradition to say a few words each
month in the Dash, if only to see if anyone has noticed that it’s not Jonathan anymore. I am really grateful to
everyone who voted me in as Chairman (the cheques are in the post) and feel very privileged to be associated
with such a vibrant and enthusiastic bunch of people. If I do the job half as good as Jonathan has done in the
last four years I will be over the moon. He has continued to lead the way and maintain stability through some
very difficult times and been such an inspiration to many. What’s even better is that he is remaining on the
committee in my old post of secretary, so a win-win result all around. Cheers for that Jonathan.
Each month I will say a few words to keep members abreast of what’s going on and who has been active in the
running and social world for the month.
Firstly though can I give a warm welcome to Alison Abbott, our new Ladies Captain.
For those who don’t know, Alison has and is heavily involved with the Wednesday night beginners group and
continues to offer support and encouragement to those groups and any new members who need a bit of a
helping hand. She is a regular face at parkruns and can often be seen drumming up the troops in ebony and
gold on many a 10k.
Now some of you may or may not be aware that Debbie Biscuit and I are going to attempt to run the Red Rose
rd
th
100 in a couple of weeks, 23 – 25 May to be precise,
and are raising money for East Lanc’s Hospice in the process. So don’t be shy you can either put cash into the
Hospice bucket that we have on club nights, sponsor us, or donate on Just Giving under Debbie Bevitt. If we
th
are successful we intend to celebrate on Saturday 13 June by doing the ‘Magnificent Seven’. We will be
starting at the Swan Hotel, Bolton Road and swiftly moving on after a pint elsewhere. Feel free to join us as
‘the more the merrier’ as they say. We will finish off in town lapping up the sounds of a local band to keep up
the party atmosphere.
Now not every Dasher wants to enter races, some are happy doing parkruns or just running out on training
nights. Well that doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on club activities. Dashers host local races around the
moors and are always on the lookout for people to Marshal at these exciting events. Basically you stand on the
course at specific spots and ensure that the runners all go in the right direction. You can do this in couples if
you prefer and have a chat with any spectators around. When finished you can head back to race start and
have a social drink whilst prizegiving takes place. If your interested then why not volunteer on any of two local
races:
th
Aggies Staircase 18 June see George Thompson
nd
th
Tockholes Fell Race 2 July (Marshals route recce on 4 June) see me or Nigel Barnes.
th
Finally, what a weekend of running that was on 25/26 April. Dashers on the Highland Fling, Fellsman, 3 Peaks,
London Marathon, Blackpool half Marathon and 10k, Bolton 10K and parkruns to boot. Congratulations to you
all.
Chris Cash
O Captain! My Captain!
FELL RUN CHAMPIONSHIP NEWS The seventh race of the
2015 Fell Race championship takes place on Tuesday evening
nd
2 June starting at 19:15 and is Paddy’s Pole at Bowland.
The exact venue is Fell Foot, Nr Chipping and if you put PR3
2NZ into your sat nav it will take you there. Its difficulty
category is AS. The distance is 6Km with 336 metres of climb.
You must enter the race on the day at a cost of £5 and there
is no pre-entry facility. There is a race limit on the day of 120
so get there early to be sure of not missing out. Teams are
also allowed so with the numbers of Ebony and Gold turning
up these days at races, we should be in with a shout of a
good position. After the race there will be food and
th
presentation at the Sun Inn, Chipping. The next race is just eight days later on Wednesday 10 June starting at
19:15 and is Holcombe 2 Towers. The exact venue is the Hare and Hounds about 3 miles from Bury and if you
put BL0 9SA into your sat nav it will take you there. Its difficulty category is AS. There is no pre entry so its entry
on the day at a cost of £5. The distance is 6.5 Km with 400 metres of climb. There is no mention of a race limit.
After the first six races the tables are currently led by Stuart Smith (Mens), and Rebecca Simms.
ROAD CHAMPIONSHIP NEWS – The ninth Road
Championship race of the season is the Blacksticks Blue
10K on Sunday 10th May starting at 10:00. The race
starts and finishes at Whitechapel Village Hall and if you
put PR3 2EP into your sat nav it will take you there.
There are toilets available at the start. The entry fee is
£10. The 62-Club will be taking a group around the
course in 60 minutes for those who are wanting to beat
the hour.
The tenth Road Championship race of the season is the
Crazy Cow 10k on Sunday 31st May starting at 10:15am.
The race starts at Vernon Carus Cricket & Sports Club
Factory Lane, Penwortham, Preston (PR1 9SN). Toilets
and showers available at this one and again the entrance
fee is £10. The 62-Club will be taking a group around the
course in 59 minutes for those who are confident of
beating the hour and want to push on a bit. There is
going to be a massive ebony and gold turn out for this
one but there is a limit of 500 and on 5th May, 400 places
+ had already gone.
After the first eight races the tables are led by Brian
Morris and Karen Atherton.
In the first six races of the Road Championship we have
had 148 Dashers racing in the ebony and gold which is
an average of almost 25 per race.
The AGM is over for another year and thank you for voting for me again. This will be my third full
year as Men’s Captain and I’m enjoying it more than ever. My wife is being very understanding
about losing every Saturday afternoon while I pour over the Fell, Road, and parkrun results to create
the Shakastats which are shown monthly in The Dash, and on the Facebook page. I like to tell her
every time I discover a new one, and I can generally tell when I am getting on her nerves, usually
when something comes flying at my head. And I have a new partner this year. Since I have had this
post I have been nursed by Carly Edwards who was already Ladies Captain when I joined the
committee, and now that she has stood down I can embarrass her by saying that she has been a
fabulous ambassador in the role. We gelled together from the very start and bounced ideas off each
other whenever one of us came up with what we thought was a piece of genius. Usually the other
would be the Voice of Reason while we allowed the idea to evolve. The biggest compliment I can pay
her is the number of her ideas which are still being staged by the club, and most of the events she
started still carry her name; i.e. Carly’s Timed Runs.
But as our ideas once evolved together, it is time for Carly’s involvement with the Dashers to evolve
in a different direction, which leaves the position of Ladies Captain vacant, and I was delighted on
the night of the AGM that Alison Abbott raised her hand to signify that she was willing to stand for
the post. Alison is relatively new to the Dashers compared with some of the dinosaurs like myself,
but like all the newbies (we still think of them like that when in fact they have been around for many
years now) she has brought a new vitality and enthusiasm to the club, like arguably has never
previously been seen. I have been a member of the Darwen Dashers since 1989 and I’ve seen the
best of times, and the worst of times, but 27 short months ago when I joined the committee, there
were concerns that nobody was turning up on a Tuesday and Thursday night to run with the
Dashers. Just think about that for a moment. I don’t mean that a committee member wasn’t present
– I mean NO ONE. Compare that now with the numbers where up to fifty are often present, and
where sometimes four different groups cater for the variety of demands from the members. It’s no
secret that I was hardly ever seen on a Tuesday or Thursday evening at the club because like most of
the other, I was happy to train alone and race in the ebony and gold, believing that that was an
admirable contribution. But now I hate missing the evening training runs, especially in the summer,
and love leading a group of my own. But when I can’t, there is no shortage of Dashers who will step
in and suggest a route, and take the lead. And some of the newer members who are regularly
winning prizes at races, can be found at the back of the groups, encouraging and advising.
Alison and I have a history of co-operation within the club and I am certain that this relationship we
have built will now evolve into a solid partnership which will see the club going from strength to
strength. So expect to see more initiatives during this coming year, with outings, pacings, varieties in
training nights and of course, more ebony and gold tides at local races in the area.
RECENT RACE RESULTS (not championships and not on the Facebook page):
21/03/15, Coniston 14 mile road race.
Winner 1:20:34.
Martin Oldfield 1:30:42. 10th in M40+, 51st overall,.
Louise Oldfield 2:26:57. 76th FV40+. 967th overall.
1119 competitors
Lancaster 3 Bridges 10k - 12th April 2015
1st – Winner 33:38
30th - 1st female - 41:16
79th - Calvin Ferguson - 45:36
282 Overall
Wardle Skyline fell race - 11th April 2015
1st – Winner 48:10
3rd - 1st Vet - 50:18
25th - 1st female - 54:23
79th - Jamie Dowdall - 59:24
91st - Calvin Ferguson - 1:01:33
186 overall
Valiants Half Marathon - 19th April 2015
1st – Winner 1:12:57
4th - 1st Vet - 1:21:37
8th - Brian Morris - 1:23:05
9th - Martin Oldfield - 1:24:07
36th - Calvin Ferguson - 1:38:20
110 runners Overall
29/03/15, Buttermere 10 mile trail race.
Winner 1:07:48
Martin Oldfield 10th overall, 1:15:15, 3rd V40+
Louise Oldfield 170th overall, 2:09:24
191 ran
MAUREEN ROBERTS TROPHY Top 30 places (Updated 5/5/15)
The Maureen Roberts trophy will be awarded to the Darwen Dasher who completes the most competitive
st
th
races between December 1 2014 and November 30 2015. In order for the race to count it must be published
in The Dash so if you take part in an event, make sure you send the details to the editor of The Dash. (You will
see similar examples above.) Please note that parkruns, relay races and cross country events do not count, but
Road, Trail, Ultra and Fell events do, regardless of whether they are part of our championships or not.
NAME
Calvin Fergusson
Brian Morris
# of Races
22
15
Last Race
Cake Race
Cake Race
Simon Taylor
Jim Taylor
Martin Oldfield
David Barnes
Anna Capstick
Carly Edwards
Tina Kuczer
Dave Shorrock
Don Clarkson
Karen Atherton
Louise Oldfield
Alison Abbott
Barry Shackleton
Rebecca Simms
Stuart Smith
James McGarry
Carol Butterworth
Dave Rushton
Paul Brindle
Helen Jones
Leanne Postlethwaite
Cath Fox
Lee Shorrock
Steve Whitehead
Joanne Nelson
Russ Corsini
Chris Cash
Jonathan Stubbs
12
11
8
8
8
8
8
8
7
7
7
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
Cake Race
Bolton 10k
Cake Race
Trimpell 20
Caldervale 10
London Marathon
Bolton 10k
Caldervale 10
Bolton 10k
Bolton 10k
Buttermere 10 Mile Trail
Bolton 10k
Bolton 10k
London Marathon
Cake Race
Blackpool Half Marathon
London Marathon
Cake Race
Cake Race
Accrington 10k
Caldervale 10
Liver Hill
Liver Hill
Bolton 10k
Cake Race
London Marathon
Fellsman
Cake Race
Races added since last month – Lancaster 3 Bridges 10k, Wardle Skyline fell race, Valiants Half Marathon,
Coniston 14, Buttermere 10 Mile Trail, Caldervale 10, London Marathon, Fellsman, 3 Peaks, Highland Fling,
Wray Scarecrow, Blackpool 10k, Lytham 10k, Arant Fell Race, Blackpool Half Marathon, Bolton 10k, Cake Race
Sec’s talk
I’ve started my tenure as secretary by having a look through
the membership records that Chris has looked after for so
long. – Many thanks!
Who are we?
At the time of writing we have 136 members. This includes first & second claims, family members
and juniors but excludes honorary members.
The gender split surprised me, particularly knowing how many racy ladies we have and how many of
them can be found slumped in the pub after most club nights.
Male
Female
Age profile by gender. This makes a bit more sense as we can see the gender split of those most
likely to race.
30
25
20
Female
15
Male
10
5
0
under 18 18 - 29
30 - 39
40 - 49
50 - 59
60 +
Subscriptions
By now you should have received your membership renewal letter. This year we are encouraging
you all to pay by bank transfer but can you please please
please put your name as reference
so Rebecca knows who the payment is for. Obviously we still take cash or cheques as in previous
years.
Jonathan
PARKRUN REPORT FOR APRIL 2015
Week one 4/4/15: On Easter
weekend and on the morning of
the Pendle Fell Race, we had 19
Dashers running at 7 different
events.
James France ran a Personal
Best at Bolton by taking 10
seconds from the time he set 2
weeks ago. It was the first time
at any parkrun he has run under
20 minutes (19:59). He moves
up 24 places on the all time
fastest 500 chart to #265.
Stuart Ryder ran his sixth
event of the season and qualifies
for the championship. Steve
Whitehead was a First Timer
anywhere in his first ever parkrun and is the 117 th Dasher to run at Bolton. Jeremy Turner ran a Personal Best
time at Bolton taking 32 seconds from his time of 2 weeks ago. Holly Turner ran her 6th event of the season
and qualifies for the championship. [Holly and her dad Jeremy both have 26:57 as their Personal Best time – the
chase is on.] Brian Tull ran his 15th parkrun of the season and his average grading for the championship is
above 60%. Catherine Ferro ran a Personal Best at Bolton removing 4:13 from the time she set 2 weeks ago.
Vikki Livsey ran a Personal Best at Bolton removing 37 seconds from the time she set 2 weeks ago. It was the
first time ever she has run under 30 minutes. This was her 10 th parkrun, of which 8 have been at Bolton. Angela
Margerison was a First Timer at Weymouth and becomes the 97 th Darwen Dasher to take part at a parkrun this
season. She is the first Dasher ever to run at Weymouth. Chris Worsley ran a Years Best at Burnley by taking
16 seconds from his time of 5 weeks ago. It was his first time over 40% grading for 27 weeks. Michelle
Connolly was a First Timer at Edinburgh and ran her second fastest time ever at a parkrun. Allison Pickup was
a First Timer at Edinburgh and ran her second fastest time ever at a parkrun. Barry Shackleton ran a Personal
Best time at Newby Bridge taking 9 seconds from the time he set 12 weeks ago. It was his first time over 60%
grading on the course. Brian Morris was a First Timer at Preston and ran the fastest time of the day (19:56) and
registered the highest grading (75.17%). He is the 323 rd fastest runner ever to appear at Preston. Calvin
Ferguson was also a First Timer at Preston.
Bolton parkrun had more than 300 runners for the 6th time. Cuerden Valley parkrun have a new female
course record of 18:42. The winner took 51 seconds from the time set by Joanne Nelson 26 weeks ago. Joanne
still has her category record and she is one of only two ladies ever to run under 20 minutes on the course.
Edinburgh parkrun had the highest attendance of the day with 579 runners. They have had more than 13,000
different runners at their event where Michelle Connolly was #13,053. They have had more than 87,000
finishers where Allison Pickup was # 87,104. Newby Bridge parkrun have had more than 3,000 finishers
where Barry Shackleton was #3,075. Preston parkrun set a new attendance record of 335. They have had over
3,000 different runners where Calvin Ferguson was #2,963. Sewerby parkrun set a new attendance record of
192. Weymouth parkrun set a new attendance record of 277. They have had more than 10,000 finishers of
which Angela Margerison was #10,045.
The total number of parkruns which have been completed by Darwen Dashers running today was 702.
Week two 11/4/15: There were
14 Dashers running at 5
different parkruns. Dave
Rushton kept up his incredible
record of consistency by
running 21:42 at Bolton which
means his last six runs have
been between 21:40 and 21:52,
a spread of just 12 seconds.
Stuart Ryder ran a Personal
Best at Bolton by taking 3
seconds from his time of 13
weeks ago. His grading of
60.09% was his first time ever
th
over 60%. Linda Clarkson finished in 57 place at Bolton which was her highest finish
position for 81 weeks. She was 4th lady to finish. Janet Greenalgh was a First Time ever
parkrunner and becomes the 99th Dasher this season to take part in a parkrun. Brian Tull ran
a Years Best time by taking 5 seconds from his time of 8 weeks ago. It was his highest
grading for 38 weeks. Jo Maxwell was a First Time ever parkrunner and is the 119th Dasher
to run a parkrun at Bolton. George Thompson was a First Timer at Keswick. This was his
16th different parkrun and was also his 70th, of which 30 have been at Bolton and 19 at
Preston. Brian Morris ran a Personal Best at Preston by taking 1 second from the time he
posted last week. He moves up three places on the fastest ever 500 table to #323. His grading
of 75.23% was the highest on the day. This was his 6th run of the season and he qualifies for
the championship. Barry Ross was a First Timer at Preston and becomes the 57th Dasher to
run there. He is the 486th fastest runner on the course. This was his 6th run of the season and
he qualifies for the championship. Calvin Ferguson ran a Personal Best at Preston taking 31
seconds from his time of last week. This was his 10th parkrun of which 4 have been at Bolton.
Jonny Bromilow was a First Timer at Tilgate and is the first Dasher ever to run there. He
finished in 19:21 which was the fastest time of the day and makes him the 159th fastest ever
runner at the event. Karen Atherton and Barry Shackleton were First Timers at Warrington
parkrun and are the first Dashers ever to run there. This was their 26th different parkrun, more
than any other Dasher.
Keswick parkrun have had more than 2,000 different runners at their event of which George
Thompson was the 2,081st. Preston parkrun have had more than 5,000 Personal Bests at
their event of which Brian Morris was #5,024. Tilgate parkrun have had more than 5,000
different runners at their event of which Jonny was #4,973.
The total number of parkruns which have been completed by Darwen Dashers running today
was 716.
Week three 18/4/15:
On the weekend of
the Manchester
Marathon we had 21
Dashers running at
4 different events.
Gareth Taylor ran
a Personal Best at
Preston taking 2
seconds from the
time he set 4 weeks
ago. He finished in
10th place which is
his joint highest
finish position. His time of 19:57 moves him up 8 places on the Fastest 500 list to #328. Barry Ross
finished in 25th place at Preston, his highest ever position. Lee Smalley was a First Timer at Preston
and ran his fastest parkrun anywhere. Amy Freeman was 3rd lady at Preston in her first parkrun for
97 weeks. She ran a Personal Best, taking 1:45 from the time she set in May 2013. She was the 100th
Dasher to run a parkrun this year. Janet Greenhalgh was a First Timer at Preston. Michelle
Connolly ran a Personal Best at Preston taking 29 seconds from her time set 26 weeks ago. Alison
Abbott ran a Personal Best at Preston taking 6:24 from her time set 26 weeks ago. Joel Freeman ran
a Personal Best taking 57 seconds from the time set 70 weeks ago. Andrea Hopwood was a First
Timer at Preston where she ran under 30 minutes for the First Time at any parkrun. She is the 250th
Darwen Dasher to finish a parkrun at Preston. Seth Greenhalgh ran his first ever parkrun and
becomes the 63rd different Darwen Dasher to run at Preston. Andy Smith ran at Bolton in his first
parkrun for 83 weeks. This was his 8th event and on all eight occasions he has finished in the top 10,
including today (8th). He is the only Darwen Dasher to win outright at Bolton, and the only Dasher to
run under 18 minutes (17:38 at Bolton in March 2012). He has never taken longer than 20 minutes in
eight outings and is still the 39th fastest ever runner at Bolton. Stuart Ryder ran a Personal Best at
Bolton taking 32 seconds from the time he set last week. George Thompson equalled his best time
this year from four weeks ago when he ran 25:40. Brian Tull ran a Years Best time at Bolton taking
13 seconds from the time he set last week. Joanne Nelson ran a Personal Best at Burnley by taking 20
seconds from her time of 16 weeks ago. She finished as first lady with the fastest time and highest
grading by a Dasher on the day. Her time of 18:51 moves her up 35 places on the fastest 500 to #137
and she becomes the second fastest lady ever on the course. She is one of only 9 ladies ever to run
under 20 minutes. This was her 6th event of the season and she qualifies for the championship. Linda
Clarkson ran a Personal Best time at Burnley taking 1:32 from the time she set three weeks ago. Her grading of
70.64% was her first time ever grading over 70% at any parkrun. This was her 10 th parkrun, of which 8 have
been at Bolton. Holly Turner was a First Timer at Cuerden Valley. Jeremy Turner was a First Timer at
Cuerden Valley. Barry Shackleton ran his 10th Cuerden Valley parkrun.
Preston parkrun have had over 3,500 different runners appear at their event and Lee Smalley was #3,539.
Burnley parkrun had 275 runners at their event which was just 2 short of their attendance record. Cuerden
Valley parkrun had 182 runners which was just 6 short of their attendance record.
The total number of parkruns which have been completed by Darwen Dashers running today was 630.
Week four 25/4/15On the
weekend of the London
Marathon, the Bolton 10k, the
Blackpool half marathon and
numerous other road, fell and
ultra races, we had 28 Dashers
running at 5 different events, the
largest turn out from the ebony
and gold this month and the
biggest since 21st March. Andy
McAllister ran his First Ever
parkrun at Preston and made an
impressive debut registering
71.87% grading. Dave Shorrock ran his first parkrun at Preston for over 9 months and ran his fastest parkrun
time anywhere for over 7 months. Janet Greenhalgh was a First Timer at Edinburgh and ran her fastest ever
parkrun. Brian Morris ran a Personal Best at Bolton taking 33 seconds from the time he set 34 weeks ago. His
time of 19:43 puts him in the sub-20 club for the first time and it was his first time over 75% grading. This was
his 10th Bolton parkrun and he moves up 98 places on the fastest ever 500 chart to #219. Sean Procter ran a
Years Best at Bolton taking 26 seconds from his time of 3 weeks ago. His grading of 67.12% is his highest ever.
Dave Rushton ran a Years Best time at Bolton taking 9 seconds from the time he set 10 weeks ago. It was his
highest grading for 19 weeks and this was his 40th parkrun, all of which have been at Bolton. Calvin Ferguson
ran a Personal Best at Bolton taking 1:35 from the time he set 12 weeks ago. Stuart Ryder ran a Personal Best
at Bolton taking 3 seconds from the time he set last week. He is the 900 th Dasher to finish a parkrun at
Leverhulme Park. Linda Clarkson finished in 57th place at Bolton which is her highest finish position for 83
weeks. This was her 6th run of the championship and she qualifies for the championship. Catherine Ferro ran a
Personal Best at Bolton taking 1 second from the time she set 3 weeks ago. Jo Maxwell ran a Personal Best at
Bolton taking 1:02 from the time she set 2 weeks ago. It was her first time grading over 50%. Barry Shackleton
completed his 200th parkrun of which 74 have been at Bolton, 30 at Hull, 26 at Preston, 26 at Burnley, and he
has attended 26 different events. Andrea Hopwood ran a Personal Best at Bolton taking 1:37 from the time she
set 7 weeks ago. Alison Abbott ran a Personal Best at Bolton taking 31 seconds from the time she set 56 weeks
ago. It was her 2nd time over 50% grading. Don Clarkson ran his 10th parkrun on the Bolton course. Emmie
Brindle was a First Time ever parkrunner at Bolton. She is the 4,697th different runner and the 120th Darwen
Dasher to take part at Leverhulme Park. She is the 105th Dasher to run a parkrun this year. Jane Allen ran a
Personal Best at Bolton taking 46 seconds from the time she set 6 weeks ago. Viki Walsh was a First Timer at
Burnley and ran under 30 minutes for the first time at any parkrun. Norman Walsh was a First Timer at
Burnley and ran his fastest time ever at any parkrun. He is the 40 th Dasher to appear at Towneley Park. Chris
Worsely ran his 6th race of the season at Burnley and qualifies for the championship. Holly Turner was a First
Timer at Durham and ran her second fastest parkrun time ever. Jeremy Turner was a First Timer at Durham
and ran his second fastest parkrun time ever. Elaine Turner ran her first parkrun for six weeks following injury
and returned at Durham by running her fastest parkrun time ever of 31:13.
Preston parkrun have had over 22,000 finishers at their event of which Andy McCallister was 22,042.
Ormskirk parkrun set a new attendance record of 157 which is increased by 5. Bolton parkrun have
registered more than 7,500 Personal Bests at their event of which Calvin Ferguson was #7,501. Burnley
parkrun have had more than 22,000 finishers at Towneley Park of which Viki Walsh was #22,132. Durham
parkrun have had more than 40,000 finishers at their event of which Jeremy Turner was #39,989.
The total number of parkruns which have been completed by Darwen Dashers running today was 799. The
record is 1,031 which was set on the 21st March.
Here are the facts and figures for April 2015, the fifth month of the championship:
Venue
Date
Dashers
Time
Grading
PB ever
YB 2015
# Run
Preston
4/4/15
Brian Morris
19:56
75.17%
First
Timer
12
Bolton
James France
19:59
64.55%
19:59PB
19:59
9
Bolton
Sean Proctor
21:04
65.74%
20:30
21:04
6
Preston
Calvin Ferguson
22:06
58.37%
First
Timer
9
Bolton
Stuart Ryder
23:11
59.74%
23:06
23:06
6
Bolton
Cath Fox
23:45
69.75%
22:20
23:33
84
Bolton
Steve Whitehead
24:23
59.06%
First
Timer
1
Newby Br
Barry Shackleton
26:14
60.10%
26:14PB
26:14
197
Bolton
Jeremy Turner
26:57
54.73%
26:57PB
26:57
3
Bolton
Holly Turner
27:47
65.21%
26:57
26:57
6
Edinburgh
Michelle Connolly
28:52
51.96%
First
Timer
16
Edinburgh
Allison Pickup
29:01
53.82%
First
Timer
9
Bolton
Brian Tull
29:02
60.05%
24:06
28:40
145
Bolton
Catherine Ferro
29:24
53.51%
29:24PB
29:24
2
Bolton
Vikki Livsey
29:39
54.08%
29:39PB
29:39
10
Newby Br
Karen Atherton
31:21
55.56%
27:10
27:17
145
Burnley
Chris Worsley
34:23
40.28%
32:13
34:23YB
21
Weymouth
Angela Margerison
35:40
43.13%
First
Timer
3
Sewerby
Paul Brain
38:17
36.18%
37:45
38:17
18
Jonny Bromilow
19:21
69.51%
First
Timer
17
Preston
Brian Morris
19:55
75.23%
19:55PB
19:55
13
Preston
Barry Ross
20:41
66.48%
First
Timer
7
Preston
Calvin Ferguson
21:35
59.77%
21:35PB
21:35
10
Bolton
Dave Rushton
21:42
67.43%
20:56
21:40
39
Bolton
Stuart Ryder
23:03
60.09%
23:03PB
23:03
7
Tilgate
11/4/15
Bolton
Linda Clarkson
23:58
67.59%
22:43
23:52
9
Keswick
George Thompson
25:57
64.61%
First
Timer
70
Warringtn
Karen Atherton
25:59
67.03%
First
Timer
146
Warringtn
Barry Shackleton
26:02
60.56%
First
Timer
198
Bolton
Janet Greenalgh
28:30
53.68%
First
Timer
1
Bolton
Brian Tull
28:35
60.99%
24:06
28:35YB
146
Bolton
Jo Maxwell
30:38
48.80%
First
Timer
1
Bolton
Linda Coffey
31:38
62.89%
28:48
29:44
52
Joanne Nelson
18:51
82.85%
18:51PB
18:51
29
Preston
Gareth Taylor
19:57
64.66%
19:57PB
19:57
22
Bolton
Andy Smith
19:58
72.12%
17:38
19:58
8
Preston
Barry Ross
20:47
66.16%
20:41
20:41
8
Preston
Lee Smalley
21:22
60.69%
First
Timer
3
Preston
Amy Freeman
21:45
68.05%
21:45
21:45
15
Bolton
Stuart Ryder
22:31
61.51%
22:31PB
22:31
8
Burnley
Linda Clarkson
22:56
70.64%
22:56PB
22:56
10
Bolton
George Thompson
25:40
65.32%
22:29
25:40YB
71
Preston
Janet Greenhalgh
27:27
55.74%
First
Timer
2
Preston
Michelle Connolly
28:16
53.07%
28:16PB
28:16
17
Preston
Alison Abbot
28:16
55.66%
28:16PB
28:16
15
Preston
Brian Morris
28:18
52.94%
19:55
19:55
14
Bolton
Brian Tull
28:22
61.46%
24:06
28:22
147
Preston
Joel Freeman
28:30
45.79%
28:30PB
28:30
3
Cuerden
Holly Turner
29:04
62.33%
First
Timer
7
Cuerden
Jeremy Turner
29:10
50.57%
First
Timer
4
Cuerden
Karen Atherton
29:12
59.65%
27:07
29:09
147
Cuerden
Barry Shackleton
29:12
54:00%
23:01
28:32
199
Preston
Andrea Hopwood
29:21
50.43%
First
Timer
3
Preston
Seth Greenhalgh
36:52
46.16%
First
Timer
1
Burnley
18/4/15
Bolton
25/3/15
Brian Morris
19:43
75.99%
19:43PB
19:43
15
Bolton
Sean Procter
20:38
67.12%
20:30
20:38YB
7
Bolton
Dave Rushton
21:31
68.01%
20:56
21:31YB
40
Bolton
Calvin Ferguson
22:00
58.64%
22:00PB
22:00
11
Bolton
Stuart Ryder
22:28
61.65%
22:28PB
22:28
9
Preston
Andy McAllister
22:31
71.87%
First
Timer
1
Bolton
Linda Clarkson
24:13
66.90%
22:43
23:52
11
Preston
Dave Shorrock
25.27
65.88%
24:42
25:27
32
Edinburgh
Janet Greenhalgh
25:43
59.49%
First
Timer
3
Durham
Holly Turner
27:02
67.02%
First
Timer
8
Durham
Jeremy Turner
27:02
54.56%
First
Timer
5
Bolton
Catherine Ferro
29:23
53.55%
29:23PB
29:23
3
Burnley
Viki Walsh
29:32
50.96%
First
Timer
5
Bolton
Jo Maxwell
29:36
50.51%
29:36PB
29:36
2
Bolton
Brian Tull
29:47
58.53%
24:06
28:22
148
Bolton
Barry Shackleton
29:47
52.94%
20:52
27:09
200
Burnley
Norman Walsh
30:14
53.97%
First
Timer
5
Bolton
Andrea Hopwood
30:32
48.47%
30:32PB
30:32
4
Bolton
Alison Abbott
30:32
51.53%
30:32PB
30:32
16
Durham
Elaine Turner
31:13
50.88%
First
Timer
6
Bolton
Don Clarkson
32:50
47.61%
32:24
32:24
16
Bolton
Linda Coffey
32:53
59.86%
28:48
29:44
53
Bolton
Karen Atherton
33:00
52.78%
24:15
25:58
148
Bolton
Emmie Brindle
33:29
46.94%
First
Timer
1
Bolton
Paul Brindle
33:35
41.59%
18:33
19:05
17
Bolton
Jane Allen
34:10
45.71%
34:10
34:10
3
Burnley
Chris Worsley
34:38
53.97%
32:13
34:23
22
Bolton
Amy Hasler
38:39
38.29%
38:19
38:19
8
PARKRUN CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS 2015 Top 30 Places (Updated 27/4/15)
Pos
Name
Grade
Best
PB’s
YB’s
2015
2015
2015
1st Timers
2015
# of runs
(Q = >6)
1
Joanne Nelson
75.22%
83.66%
1
0
2
Q
2
Brian Morris
73.60%
75.99%
2
1
2
Q
3
Cath Fox
73.57%
75.89%
2
0
2
Q
4
Jonny Bromilow
69.44%
71.16%
4
0
5
Q
5
George Thompson
67.94%
69.53%
0
2
0
Q
6
Dave Rushton
67.59%
68.27%
0
2
0
Q
7
Linda Clarkson
67.39%
70.64%
1
1
1
Q
8
Karen Atherton
67.36%
68.21%
0
5
1
Q
9
Holly Turner
65.47%
67.22%
2
0
1
Q
10
Linda Coffey
64.72%
66.35%
0
3
0
Q
11
Dave Shorrock
64.19%
65.88%
0
2
0
Q
12
Barry Ross
63.56%
66.48%
2
0
2
Q
13
Gareth Taylor
62.74%
64.66%
3
1
0
Q
14
Barry Shackleton
62.66%
63.72%
2
3
1
Q
15
Brian Tull
60.67%
61.46%
0
5
0
Q
16
Stuart Ryder
60.46%
61.65%
3
0
1
Q
17
Nerina Gill
59.36%
63.96%
0
2
0
Q
18
Calvin Ferguson
57.16%
59.77%
5
0
4
Q
19
Debbie Bevitt
55.97%
60.27%
2
0
1
Q
20
Chris Cash
53.57%
56.31%
1
0
5
Q
21
Don Clarkson
48.64%
50.87%
2
1
1
Q
22
Chris Worsley
38.68%
40.28%
0
1
1
Q
23
Paul Brain
36.84%
38.28%
0
1
3
Q
24
Sue Taylor
65.87%
69.68%
0
1
2
5
25
Leanne Postlethwaite
57.92%
64.89%
2
0
1
5
26
Jeremy Turner
52.60%
54.73%
1
0
3
5
27
Norman Walsh
51.41%
53.97%
2
0
3
5
28
Michelle Connolly
50.20%
53.07%
1
1
1
5
29
Elaine Turner
49.87%
50.88%
3
0
2
5
30
Alison Abbott
45.97%
55.66%
2
0
1
5
Parkrun (to the tune of Blur’s Parklife) By Barry Ross
Barry Shackleton is the leader for the habitual Dasher of what is known as
(parkrun)
And morning blues can be avoided if you run the course route through what is known as
(parkrun)
Jonny runs Preston’s three loops he gets inspired by the Bazza’s Angels
They love a bit of him (parkrun)
Who’s that gut lord marching good to see you at a parkrun mate getting more exercise
All the people
So many people (681858 runners)
They all go barcode in hand
Barcode in hand for their parkrun
Know what I mean?
I get up when I want except on Saturdays when I jump up excitedly to complete another
(parkrun)
I put my shorts on, have a cup of tea and I think about leaving the house
(parkrun)
I run at Bolton I sometimes run at Preston too it gives me a sense of enormous well being
(parkrun)
And then I’m happy for the rest of the day safe in the knowledge there will soon be; Shakastats,
results and plaudits on Facebook
(parkrun)
All the people
So many people (6827303 runs)
And they all go barcode in hand
Barcode in hand for their parkrun
Parkrun (parkrun)
Parkrun (parkrun)
It’s got everything to do with your eyeballs out negative splits you know
And it’s all about you runners who go round and round and round
(parkrun)
All the people
So many people (141 different Dashers)
And they all go barcode in hand
Barcode in hand for their parkrun
All the people
So many people (1666 total runs by Dashers)
And they all go barcode in hand
Barcode in hand for their parkrun
Diary of a Wimpy Runner!
11th April should have been the Calderdale 37 but unfortunately I bottled it on the day. We
got there too early and whilst I was sat there looking at all these elite ultra runners with all
their fancy kit I just had “doubting Thomas” in my head saying “what am I doing here” we set
off on the race but at the top of the first climb I quit. Once your head has gone its gone. …
So we headed back to Lancashire and recced Whalley to Barley.
During the week we did another section from Barley to Bolton by Bowland. I haven’t had any
other events which I have taken part in but Chris did the Fellsman the weekend that saw so
many dashers doing so many events from parkruns to the Marathon. I went to the first
checkpoint to cheer him on and Neil and Alex too, the weather was awful and I was only
stood there never mind trying to run it.
The route of the 100 takes in some beautiful places and we are so lucky to have this on our
doorstep, we met a couple on one of the sections who were from Wiltshire and they had
travelled up to cover some of the route and they were amazed at the stunning views.
Bank holiday weekend we covered Dunsop Bridge to Hurst Green, then Hurst Green to
Hoghton. Just after Ribchester we got ourselves a bit lost but re traced our steps and found
the correct path. The next day was the Geoff Doggett 5K which felt strange to be running as
a race as all these long distances have been at a lot slower pace.
Saturday 9th May Rebecca joined us for the final recce from Hoghton to Rvington, and she
has now decided that she is going to do the 100 with us, she was undecided as she was
marathon training for the past few months.
Today Chris and I did the Blacksticks 10K and that is the last event we will do now prior to
the 100. I am putting together the checkpoint information and estimated time and if any of
you lovely dashers would like to turn up at random village halls on route to cheer us on you
will be most appreciated.
I can’t say that I am looking forward to it as I really don’t know how I am going to get on, but I
am determined to finish and I am just going to go checkpoint to checkpoint. Barry
Shackleton has very kindly agreed to keep a facebook update of how we are getting on, as
we are going to text him when we reach each checkpoint.
Can I thank everyone for their interest and support during the last 5 months and if you would
like to support our charity “East Lancs. Hospice” I have a justgiving page.
I sure I will have plenty to write about next month …..
Debbie ‘2 pints’ Biscuit
The London marathon, 2015.
This year was a very special event at the London marathon, as it was the 30 th
anniversary of the race and the key theme was “togetherness and support” to reflect
the two winners of the very first event; who ran in together, in joint first place. The
event had also been given much hype as Paula Radcliffe, still the world champion
record holder, would be running her last London marathon. She was to start on the
championship start, the start where I run from. I wasn’t holding out much hope of
seeing her!!!! Maybe her back.
I had a feeling this year was going to be something very special. Carol was running
her debut at London, and I know she’s worked extremely hard in her training. Des
had planned to run the Three Peaks (on the Saturday) with Paul and then travel
down after the race to support Carol in the marathon. However, he very kindly
decided to withdraw from the Three Peaks and travel with Carol on the Saturday
instead. Neil wasn’t planning on running the Three Peaks (no surprise there) but was
coming to support Carly; also travelling down on the Saturday. Gareth Taylor had a
whole army of supporters, with his mum, dad and girlfriend all on-board, and
Rebecca Simms had Barry supporting her en-route, no doubt with some home baked
cake!!!
Janine and I travelled down very early on the Saturday morning. So early that we
arrived at London Euston for 9.00 am. This year we decided to travel light! So light
that we wore our trackies to travel down in, and basically had our Dasher’s vests in
our rucksacks, a toothbrush and a pair of flip flops! Once you’ve run a marathon
you’ll value the importance of flip flops. Our train was leaving at 3.40 the afternoon of
the race, and we wanted to ensure that once we finished the race we could go
straight to the train station and catch our train.
Once at London we caught the DLR to the Excel centre to pick up our numbers. I
stood in the line for the lower numbers, the Championship start, and Janine went to
collect her number. At my line I was approached by a woman who, apparently, was
completing a doctorate at Manchester University. She asked me what my expected
time was. I replied I hoped to complete in 3 hours 10. She explained that she was
completing a dissertation on whether being an elite / fast runner was genetic, and
she was approaching people on my start. She then asked me what my fastest time
was. I replied “3 hours 13”. She then said “Oh, I’m after sub 3 hours 10, maybe next
year!” Janine had returned from collecting her number…..and after hearing the
woman’s comment replied, in a very supportive, good friend kind of way) “Cheeky
bi***”… (afterall, as previously mentioned, the theme of the marathon was all about
support and friendship) We had to laugh; I was fast but just not fast enough!!!!
After leaving the excel centre we then went to our hotel and watched the interview
with Paula Radcliffe. I’m sure I heard her mention how excited she was to be running
on the Championship start with Joanne Nelson! But Janine claimed I was a bit
delirious and hearing things.
It was sunny in the afternoon, so we caught the underground and went to St James’
park. Here we bumped into Gary and Sue Taylor (Gareth’s mum and dad) and we
had a chat about how exciting it was. Gary was reminiscing about his previous runs
at London and that he was looking forward to watching and supporting, rather than
running.
Janine and I sat in the sun shine / wind, watching the barriers being put up along
birdcage walk (the run in to the finish) and we were getting quietly excited. We sat
people watching. I sent this picture to Paul…. I was thinking of a new haircut, but he
was clearly thinking other things!!! MEN!
We then went for our tea and had an early night, eating chocolate and drinking
water!!!! It’s all rock n roll, you see!
Up early in the morning for breakfast, and then to meet Carol and Carly to get to the
start. Neil had got out of bed to see us off. At this stage nerves were rather high.
I was at the blue start with Carly, Janine and Carol were at the green “good for age”
start. The weather wasn’t the best, it was raining and rather windy. This wasn’t
helped by the text I received from Paul, who had decided to run Bolton 10K.
Apparently it was lovely and warm up north!
Anyway, Carly and I said our good byes and I went to my start. I ran around the
warm up track and saw Autumn Howard (Trawden). I knew she had secured a
championship start as she qualified with a sub 90 mins half marathon time at the
speedy Lancaster half marathon (pay attention people, that’s maybe one to consider
if you want to get into London on the Championship start and you are not sure you
can achieve it from running a fast marathon) Anyway, we chatted and she told me
her fella had come to support her and had actually reserved a spot on the spectator
stands on the run into the finish. I could see how happy and excited she was about
that, and how it would motivate her through the hard times, knowing that she had
someone there at the finish. I have run London marathon maybe 8 times now, and I
didn’t even know there was a stand there!!!! Mind you, no-one has ever come to
watch me; although my my mum is threatening to in 2016!
I have to say I was a little confused about the time I thought I was going to get. The
Manchester marathon had really put a spanner in the works, and had me thinking
what I was capable of. So after many discussions / debates with Paul as to what I
could do…I decided, on the day, that I would just set off faster than my normal pace,
but NOT go with the sub 3 hour pacers. I could always speed up (ish) later, if I
needed to. I was also safe in the knowledge that Paul was 100s of miles away, and
so couldn’t say anything, but also he was running the 10k and then going to work, so
he would only catch an hour of my race. Ha! Sorted. By the time I saw him to chat
again he might have forgot about my splits!!!
Throughout the race I felt really good. There really was an emphasis on support and
helping each other out this year. Guys who I didn’t know shared water bottles with
me, as I did with them. There was less fighting to get to water stations, and being
frustrated if you didn’t get there. Don’t get me wrong, it was still very busy, and there
were times when I missed the stations because I simply couldn’t get there due to the
mass of people. But generally there was this feeling of support.
I got to 9 miles and heard my name being shouted. It was Gary Taylor. I looked him
straight in the eye and gave him a wave. As I ran over Tower Bridge and made my
way to half way, I could see I was catching the 3 hour pacers…. I heard my name… I
think… and I thought it might be Des, but I was in the zone and had an important
decision to make. Should I catch the 3 hour pacer, or leave it a bit? If I caught him I
would need to overtake, as I cannot run with all those people running in a big group.
I decided to overtake. It had never been my plan to run sub 3 hours… but I was
feeling good (at that moment)
I overtook and dug in for the remainder of the race. At around 19 miles I heard my
name being called again… it was Gary, again!! I waved (ish) … but this time I was
feeling it a little.
Then 19th mile was my fastest mile, and although I was tiring I knew that if I kept
running sub 6.50 minute miles that I would be able to get a sub 3 hour marathon
time. That is all I thought about. The more miles under 6.50 now, the more likely you
are to get sub 3 hours.
At mile 23 my old boss, Russ caught me, he gave me a massive whack on the back
and shouted “alright?”… I cannot really say what I replied, but I wasn’t. We ran the
last 3 miles in together. He was aiming for a sub 3 hour marathon. We ran in
together, over the finish line, and he gave me such a huge hug, just as well, as my
legs were shaking and I was absolutely battered.
A few minutes later Russ Corsini ran over the line. Apparently I had overtaken him at
23 miles….ran right past him. I didn’t see him!!
Jubilation was quickly followed by a panic attack when I was separated from my
friends to collect my bag and I realised I was on my own. Sheer exhaustion and
cramp set in; breathing was so much easier when I was running!!!
I sat on the floor, changed into my minimalistic wardrobe of…. My tracksuit and
flipflops and waited for my friends to come in.
Janine and Carol came over the line pretty much together and I spotted them straight
away. I was glad I was there to see Carol finish her first London marathon. She ran a
fantastic race. I was also pleased I was there to support Janine who ran
tremendously after hardly any training and suffering from an injury for most of the
time she was supposed to be getting the long runs in.
However, no hanging around…. Janine and I had a train to catch. So it was a mad
rush to Euston to the train station. We did get there on time! And we sat for a good 2
hours, scoffing crisps and eating the goodies from out kit bags.
As we sat on the train, Janine and I concluded that we hoped the woman from
Manchester Uni, completing her dissertation was gutted….and she really should
have asked for my number!!!!!!
In short…….
Many thanks to those who have completed training runs with me, keeping me
company.
And to those who tracked me throughout the race, and got super excited as my
estimated time to the finish when down!!
Thanks to those who cried and felt proud of me!
Thanks to the speedy one who publically displayed my time on fb!!!
Thanks to those who messaged me with congratulatory texts.
And thanks to the all-knowing Linda Clarkson whose marathon knowledge, advice
and no nonsense down to earth guidance worked a treat.
Joanne Nelson
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of Darwen Dashers Running Club on Thursday 30th April at
the Fernhurst Hotel, Ewood.
Jonathan opened the meeting at 20.35 & thanked everyone for their attendance.
Present
Jonathan Stubbs, Chris Cash, Rebecca Simms, Barry Shackleton, Brian Tull,
Des & Carol Reilly, Joanne Nelson, Paul Brindle, Russ Corsini,
Linda Clarkson, James & Kym McGarry-Stanley, Brian Morris,
Sarah Louise Quinn, Debbie Bevitt, Jim Taylor, Barry Clark,
Gary Taylor, Karen Shackleton, Simon & Cath Fox,
Chris Gosling, Debbie Robinson, Vikki Livsey, Alex Buckland,
Barry Ross, Elaine Turner, Jonny Bromilow, Lee Shorrock,
Don Clarkson, Tina Kuczer, Alison Abbott.
Apologies received
George Thompson, Gareth Taylor, Carly Edwards, Mark Walsh.
Approval of AGM 2014 Minutes
Agreed as a true record.
Captains’ Report
Barry Shackleton explained that he was speaking on behalf of himself & Carly Edwards, women’s
captain. The most noticeable aspect of the club was the enthusiasm within the club shown by many
over the last 12 months. Barry highlighted James McGarry who posted on FB on the Saturday that he
would be going out for a run if anyone wished to join him at 8.30am the following day. 12 people of
mixed abilities turned up & joined him, which is an absolutely fantastic response.
The club is now very inclusive with different groups out running every club night when there can be
over 50 people in attendance at the Sunnyhurst. Thanks to people like Don Clarkson, Michelle
Connolly & Alison Pickup who along with many others regularly take out groups. Races too are well
attended, last weekend having Dashers in races from Edinburgh to London in a variety of races from
10k to marathons & more. May well this enthusiasm continue.
Treasurer’s Report
Rebecca Simms explained that as part of the clubs constitution the finances are required to be
audited and that George Thomson had completed this prior to the AGM. A summary sheet showing
income and expenditure was made available on the night.
Finances had increased over last year from £2,158 to £2,968 due largely to the increase in
membership, income from the races we hold (£1,521) and the sale of merchandise . We still have
£275 in hand to provide subsidised membership to new members who have progressed through the
beginners group. We have continued to support our chosen charities & have made contributions to
Cardiac in the Young (CRY) (£621), Bolton Mountain Rescue (£294) & East Lancs Hospice (£142).
Secretary’s Report
Chris Cash reported that 33 members had left/not renewed membership during the year. However
new members joining the club stood at 71, an increase of 38 members.
Total membership registered with England Athletics is 135 + 10 honorary members.
The Wednesday Night Beginners Group continues to go from strength to strength with over 30
attending last night. This group graduates by running Bolton Parkrun on Saturday 30th May and I
would ask Dashers to support this by their attendance at this.
London Marathon Club Places- members had to be aware that club places for the London Marathon
was limited, last year we had 3 but this can never be guaranteed. To enter members have to
completed 4 Dashers championship races before the ballot takes place and provide their rejection
slips which are received during October. Joanne Nelson made the suggestion that the draw should
be made as soon after as opposed to waiting for the Xmas party. This was supported by the
members. The draw is to take place on a club night the first week in November.
England Athletics Affiliation- the club membership has doubled from £50 to £100 and each members
from £10 to £12. It was suggested that these increases be absorbed with the exception of family
member membership (which only covers EA membership) be raised to £12 to absorb the increase.
This again was supported by the members.
Clothing- a healthy variety of merchandise has been offered in the last year from running vests to
mugs and hoodies by a small number of Dashers, with demand often outweighing supply at times. A
big thank you goes to Neil Duerden who has provided many of the designs free of charge.
Chairman’s Report
Jonathan gave a month by month resume of events that have occurred over the last year ranging
from Dashers races, treasure hunts, train trips, births, engagements and marriages. In recognition of
the hard work & dedication shown by members he presented the following with small tokens of
appreciation:
For editing The Dash, Simon Fox.
For Beginners Group Run Leaders, Vikki Livsey, Alex Buckland, Alison Abbott, James France, James
McGarry-Stanley, Chris Cash.
Jonathan explained that following interest expressed at last years AGM he was pursuing the
possibility of the Dashers hosting a road race of 10 to 13.1 mls distance starting at either DACA or
Blacksnape playing fields.
Jonathan thanked all members for their support over the last 4 years as chairman and confirmed his
decision to step down from his chairmanship role. It is also Carly Edwards decision to step down
from that of Ladies Captain. Jonathan thanked Carly for her hard work over the last two years.
Election of Committee Members
Chairman: Chris Cash, proposed by Jim Taylor, seconded by Russ Corsini.
Ladies Captain: Alison Abbott, proposed by James McGarry-Stanley, seconded by Chris Gosling.
Mens Captain continues with Barry Shackleton.
President continues with Brian Tull.
Treasurer continues with Rebecca Simms.
Secretary: Jonathan Stubbs, proposed by Sarah Louise Quinn, seconded by Kym McGarry-Stanley.
Open Forum
Jim Taylor informed the meeting that at the forthcoming Geoff Doggett Trail Race Andy O’Sullivan s
to present a cheque to our chosen charity.
James McGarry-Stanley thanked the committee for advertising routes & groupings on club nights on
F/B each week.
The meeting closed at 21.15pm
Ladies’ road championship
135
140
Anna Capstick
Alison Abbott
765
655
115
95
125
120
95
120
105
Leanne Postlethwaite
Catherine Fox
575
570
135
140
145
140
150
145
Tina Kuczer
Linda Coffey
Joanne Nelson
Debbie Robinson
Janet Greenhalgh
Helen Jones
Amy Hasler
Sarah Quinn
Nerina Gill
Fiona Salt
Alice Capstick
Hannah Caulfield
Catherine Ferro
Louise Oldfield
Michelle Connolly
Sue Eastham
Vickie Pilkington
Jo Maxwell
Kathryn Bamber
Kymberlee McGarry
Carol Butterworth
Carly Edwards
Sue Taylor
Carmel Ellicot
525
465
450
435
405
335
330
325
290
285
265
265
265
260
250
240
220
210
200
155
150
145
125
105
100
Jennifer Fielding
Andrea Skelton
90
80
90
120
130
150
110
100
115
150
105
130
75
75
105
110
85
80
110
140
150
125
105
135
130
145
90
100
150
95
135
65
70
110
115
120
125
140
105
140
90
130
85
110
130
120
135
145
135
140
135
115
125
125
100
85
80
150
145
150
120
Bolton10K
Roddlesworth
145
Caldervale10m
Lostock 6
130
Accrington10K
Winter Warmer
840
Wilmslow Half
Garstang10k
TOTAL
Karen Shackleton
115
95
110
115
75
150
145
125
105
80
Men’s road championship
Roddlesworth
150
140
145
140
150
145
145
140
Calvin Ferguson
Jim Taylor
715
615
115
110
75
130
110
115
100
120
100
125
105
Stephen Whitehead
Russ Corsini
590
555
95
125
120
145
110
Barry Shackleton
Barry Ross
David Ian Shorrock
Jonny Bromilow
Don Clarkson
David Rushton
Calum Rigby
Brian Tull
James McGarry-S’
Lee Shorrock
Paul Brindle
Martin Oldfield
Lee Smalley
Gareth Taylor
515
490
455
445
435
380
335
325
310
300
300
285
270
255
120
95
95
120
105
Dave Ponton
Chris Worsley
Derek Reilley
Mick Leigh
Dale Dacre
Jonathan Stubbs
Paul Taylor
Daniel Haworth
David Barnes
Gary Taylor
225
180
150
145
140
135
130
130
130
125
125
David Robinson
Chris Gosling
Paul Brain
Paul Astin
120
100
90
80
150
65
90
125
95
70
105
105
100
90
85
125
120
135
95
130
110
110
135
130
145
90
125
80
105
115
100
130
90
115
115
150
145
Bolton10K
Lostock 6
135
130
145
150
Caldervale10m
Winter Warmer
140
135
110
150
90
Accrington10K
Garstang10k
865
830
105
Wilmslow Half
TOTAL
Brian Morris
Simon Taylor
150
140
135
135
115
140
100
85
95
150
145
140
135
130
130
130
125
120
100
90
80
Fell championship
135
100
90
85
100
90
85
Rebecca Simms
Jacqueline Shaw
Carly Edwards
Cath Fox
Joanne Nelson
Amy Freeman
Karen Atherton
Vikki Livsey
Debbie Bevitt
Nerina Gill
Tina Kuczer
Helen Jones
295
285
150
150
150
145
140
140
135
135
130
125
150
140
125
120
Cake Race
Bleasdale Circle
140
135
125
115
110
Pendle
Ashurst Beacon
665
550
515
470
460
450
440
410
335
285
225
200
150
135
130
130
130
125
120
120
Liver Hil
TOTAL
Stuart Smith
Simon Taylor
Jonathan Stubbs
Calvin Ferguson
George Thompson
Paul Brindle
Brian Shaw
Brian Morris
David Shorrock
Martin Oldfield
Jim Taylor
Chris Cash
Mark Walsh
David Robinson
Neil Tattersall
Jamie Dowdall
David Rushton
Lee Shorrock
David Ponton
Dave Rushton
James McGarryStanley
Barry Shackleton
Don Clarkson
140
145
115
130
125
110
120
150
135
140
125
120
110
150
115
145
115
145
130
105
145
150
145
135
140
115
110
95
105
150
135
130
130
130
125
120
120
150
145
145
150
140
150
150
145
140
140
135
135
130
125
Fell championship races
Mearley
Clough
AS
12/5/15
Worston.
Paddy's Pole
AS
2/6/15
Chipping
Holcombe 2
AS
10/6/15
Bury
Bull Hill
BS
9/7/15
Hawkshaw
Kentmere
AM
19/7/15
Lake District
Turnslack
BM
25/7/15
Summit
Whittle Pike
AS
5/8/15
Waterfoot
Pilgrims Cross
BM
12/8/15
Helmshore
Pendle
Memorial
Withins
Skyline
AS
Sep
Clitheroe
BM
11/10/15
Haworth
Tour of
Pendle
AL
14/11/15
Barley
Towers
Horseshoe
A = steep, very little tarmac
S = less than 10km
Aggies Staircase
Tockholes Evening
David Staff Memorial
Windswept Bronte country. Bits of Pennine Way,
narrow tracks and boggy moorland. Free Curly Wurly
for each finisher.
It’s a monster and not one for the ill prepared! A great
way of finishing off the championship.
B = not as steep
M = from 10 to 20 km
Dashers races in 2015



Superb short race. One steep ascent – just image you
are climbing the stairs, but don’t look up! The descent
is not quite as steep, but shoes with some grip will be
an advantage. Free pasta supper.
Great running along the tops between a tough climb
and descent of Parlick. Free cheese and onion pie.
Climb up to Peel Tower then up again to the peak
beyond it. Drop down, then back up to the tower
again before storming down to the finish.
Proper fell race with some running on pathless
moorland. Some tough climbs and steep descents.
Challenging race around this beautiful horseshoe.
Steady climb up, some challenging rocky sections,
superb grassy descents and a tricky stream bed just
when your legs are tired. Just like all Lakeland races,
navigation is a challenge when the cloud base is low.
Bit of everything in this one. Easy tracks, rough
moorland, bogs, stream crossings and peat hags.
Tougher than it looks!
Cakes in the church hall are good. To avoid
disappointment, ask them to put your favourite under
the counter before the race.
Mostly on narrow tracks, but there is some open
moorland that can be a bit wet underfoot. What else
would you be doing on a Wednesday evening?
Narrow start so make sure you don’t get held up /
trampled on. Soon opens out on to good moorland
tracks. Expect to see a few sprint finishes on the
tarmac road to the finish line.
New race. I don’t know anything about it.
18/6/15
2/7/15
29/11/15
L = over 20km
Fell race preview - Mearly Clough. 5.6km / 380m climb
Tue 12th May 2015 at 19:15
Venue: Calf's Head, Worston, nr Clitheroe.
Race starts directly outside the Calf’s Head with around ¼ mile of road. Try to not get carried away
through the fields – the long grass is hard work and you’ll need to pick your feet up. Go through a
farm yard and on to a track through a small woodland. The route starts to climb a little as you follow
a stream. Once through the fell gate, the race really starts. There’s no avoiding it, this is steep. It’s
like climbing a very long ladder, so slow down and try to keep a steady pace. Once at the top, give a
cheery wave to the marshals at the checkpoint then start to run along Pendle’s skyline on quite good
tracks. Take the time to look down to your right to see the race leaders below. The descent is steep,
mainly grassy with some hidden rocks. You will do well here if you are in shoes with some grip rather
than road shoes. At the bottom of the descent re-join the original track and give it all you’ve got
back to the finish in the final field and in to the pub for the free pasta supper!
What’s it like for a first fell race? Ask Louise Oldfield as she did it last year.
Click map for better image
Jonathan
Fell race preview – Paddy’s Pole 6km / 336m climb
Tue 2nd Jun 2015 at 19:15
Venue: Fell Foot, nr Chipping, Lancs, PR3 2NZ.
After brutal climb up Parlick from the start line the route levels off a bit as you rise gently to the high
point of Fair Snape Fell. Quick circuit around the checkpoint marshals then, more or less, back the
way you came. Descending Parlick with tired legs is tiring so expect to be rubbing your thighs at work
on Wednesday morning! Pie is on offer at Chipping village hall, a short drive away.
Click map for better image
Jonathan
Fell race preview – Holcolme Two Towers. 6.5km / 400m climb
Wed 10th Jun 2015 at 19:15
Venue: Hare & Hounds, BL0 9SA, on A676, 3m NNW of Bury.
Not done this race for quite a few years. It was one of my first and I think I was last. I remember
jogging down to the finish with two mountain rescue chaps carrying an empty stretcher….yes, they
made all the predictable jokes.
The route goes up to the tower, but it’s not too steep. Once there, the route flattens off before
going up to the following peak. It is all a blur to me after that, but I assume the route does come
back to where it started!
There is actually only one tower, but you pass it twice.
Jonathan
18,700 km from Coed Y Brenin
I watched the Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather boxing match live a couple of Sundays ago.
The richest ever boxing event in history. And it’s got to be the record for a sports person to earn in
one event. I’m not actually sure how Mayweather got – between US$100 mil or US$180 mil. Seems
rather careless that he didn’t know. I’d be quite keen to know if someone was adding or subtracting
a million off my pay.
Some interesting facts about the fight that you may not have known:
Mayweather had several different mouth guards made. One was clear with gold leaf inlaid in it.
Another had a $100 bill. Diamond dust in another.
Pacquiao was paid $2.5 mil for the sponsorship on his shorts.
There were traffic jams of private jets trying to get in and out of Las Vegas.
A fact that anyone that watched it will now know – Mayweather is actually a rather boring fighter.
And he’s mates with Justin Bieber!?!?!
Which makes me wonder how he has become so popular.
Boxing has a rich history of really talented who haven’t made it - really skilled boxers that haven’t
had much success because they’ve been so boring in defeating their opponents.
That’s because supporters of boxing often slam boxers that don’t bring enough blood out. Especially
in America. So if you’re good you’ve still got to take some risks and get hit enough to make it
exciting. Or just never stop hitting your opponent (a la Tyson). Either way to be big in the States
someone has to get hit lots when you fight.
Mayweather has a real talent for not getting hit at all. And often not hitting his opponents that much
either. So how is he making it so big in the US of A?
Who are all these people that paid so many hundreds of million to watch him not get hit and not hit
someone back (much)?
Opponents of boxing slam it for been so violent and encouraging “blood lust” in our fellow humans.
So maybe they all lined up to get tickets to encourage a less violent sort of fighter.
Could it have been that “Pacman” was the big draw? I’d agree except Mayweather gets paid
ridiculous amounts for all his fights. And a lot more than Pacquiao in each of them so that disproves
that theory.
Mayweather also gets criticized for been rather obnoxious. Actually supersized obnoxious.
So how does someone that, while skilled, isn’t that entertaining in their chosen pursuit, and is
actually rather easy to dislike, make so much money?
I guess it has to be that everyone pays to see him lose.
Which is rather interesting in itself. People will pay a lot of money to see someone they like win. But
they’ll pay even more to see someone they don’t like lose.
I could add something about the English Rugby team here.
But I won’t for fear of angering the sponsors…
Kia ora!
Danny
[email protected]
It’s good to talk about girls running
Shakastats reliably inform me that statistically more men run than girls........
However in recent Dashers championship road races the number of females finishing races has
exceeded males........ At our club, the number of members has risen dramatically, particularly in
those of the fairer sex. Yes, girls, sisters are doing it for themselves! (more of that later). The
contribution of the 10-week beginners course cannot be underestimated in this. The joy of those
who never thought they could run around the block, never mind complete 5k, 10k or further, is
tangible. I think the beginners course is particularly attractive to women who are less inclined than
men to have the confidence to start running alone. The support, advice and encouragement are
valued by all who come through the group but particularly the girls.
I’m all for a bit of girl power. I don’t want to sound like a raging feminist, and burning my bra would
hardly keep a Hobbit warm, but girls are great. When my daughters were little we were an all female
household for a long time and whilst I didn’t want my girls to grow up to be man haters I equally
didn’t want them to think they had to rely on a man to be happy or complete. We had a couple of
commonly used sayings in our house; ‘who needs a man!’ reserved for when things went right
(usually when we successfully completed what was generally assumed to be a ‘blue’ task) and
‘there’s never a man about when you want one’ for those times when our blue job attempts
weren’t quite so successful. Like the time when I was trying to screw an outdoor lighting fitting back
to the wall from where it had become dislodged. Not only did all the other women on the street
hate me for putting them in the position of feeling that they should have a go at jobs which they
themselves normally reserve for men, but I was almost singularly responsible for bringing the early
demise of a friends husband who was working at a house across the road. He assumed that I was
struggling and strode across the road in a very manly ‘I’ll show her how it’s done’ manner. He took
the drilling machine off me and shook his head as he climbed up the ladder. I reassured him that I
definitely had turned the electric off when.....no need to go into the detail but he didn’t need his hair
perming for a while and he has never offered to help me with anything since. Anyway, a man who
has his hair permed probably deserves an electric shock every now and again, but possibly not the
near death experience that I induced that day.Perhaps those commonly used sayings weren’t very
fair on men but my main message to my girls was go on, have a go, don’t be afraid to try.
We may be very busy as women, juggling work with caring for our families and keeping all the plates
spinning at home. However, to do all that we have to be extremely organised and we become very
creative when trying to slip in a sneaky run. Who cares if you haven’t Hoovered? Just go for a run.
It’s ok, you know you want to and you’ll feel better afterwards, in fact positively virtuous and serene,
and therefore be much more able to fulfil all your responsibilities if you’ve done something for
yourself. A run and a soak in the bath are
far more likely to achieve that goal than
any amount of household chores.
Cath Fox ?????Karen Shackleton?????
and ............. Joanne Nelson
And all Dashettes and Angels
and motivation....... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtUWs6muGzg
Happy running ladies - Karen Shackleton
Founded 1990
Club committee
Chairman
Jonathan Stubbs
15 Chapels, Darwen, BB3 0EE
07747 398 384
[email protected]
07881 017 426
[email protected]
Ladies’ Captain
Carly Edwards
Men’s Captain
Barry Shackleton
[email protected]
President
Brian Tull
[email protected]
Secretary
Chris Cash
Treasurer
Rebecca Simms
01254 692 677
[email protected]
When / where to meet us
Tuesday
The Sunnyhurst, Tockholes Rd, Darwen, BB3 1JX. 19:00
All welcome
Wednesday
Darwen Leisure Centre, 18:30
Beginners
Thursday
The Sunnyhurst, Tockholes Rd, Darwen, BB3 1JX. 19:00
All welcome
If you have not run with us before, please get in touch before you come so we can arrange for
somebody to meet you.
www.dashers.org.uk
@darwendashers
“Darwen Dashers Running Club”
Any articles for the Dash to Simon Fox, Editor, [email protected], 01254 707 216, by the 10th
of the month.