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Weekly Waffle – 16th December 2018

A week on from our wonderful Christmas knees up we’re back to what binds us… running!

Weather again is our nemesis.  Numbers heading out of the door to training improve slightly but the darker, colder nights still keep some indoors. 

Christmas is coming.

Responsibilities shift.
Families are so important at this time of year and demands at home keep some from training.  We know you’re there in spirit but some things are more important and quite rightly so.  We’ll all still be here when demands change again.

The weekend arrived and the weather worsened.  Cold.  Wet.  Windy.  Undeterred, The Phoenix still had to meet their constitutional requirements and parkruns abound.  Home and away.  Battling the elements was the order of the day but despite that for the very first time in our history we saw a first, second and third Ogmore Phoenix placing at a home event.  A unique and impressive outcome that is worthy of celebration.  Although parkrun, fundamental to it’s ethos, is not about winning or losing, an opportunity to register a significant placing is one that most of us would covet.  We are proud of this achievement at the same time as celebrating all those who stood on the start line at 9am on Saturday.  No matter how long it takes we salute all our runners for just stepping out of the door in their trainers.

Some went the extra mile on Saturday and donned Santa outfits to brave the extreme elements hitting the coast to the west.  With smiles aplenty mother natures worst didn’t deter maximum effort from those who took on the challenge.

Overnight it calmed.

Brighter skies.  

Elevated temperatures.  

OK, it’s worth saying it’s not tropical but a few degrees make a lot of difference at this time of year.  

Numbers travelled east down the A48.  Not to play golf but to run where the sport is played.  Significant numbers dressed in festive attire headed off road to circumnavigate the greens in this Cracker that proves to be increasingly popular year on year.

Others found a route which is familiar as one of our home parkruns for a fun run dressed in festive gear and enjoyed it immensely.

While all of this goes on our volunteers continue to support our recently graduated heroes continuing their running journey.

All the while collections take place within our midst to provide much needed supplies for those within our community who found themselves without shelter during the festive season.  Providing things for those who haven’t from those of us who have.

Another weekend draws to a close and despite the demands of family and home-life most still manage to fit their runs in.  For those who can’t we reach out and remind them that we know that life demands a great deal and often takes them away from the sport that we love.  It should go without saying that when the demands of life outside club ease we are always here and will welcome all back with welcome arms when time allows.

We enter the final week in the build up to the big day. 

The man in red with the white beard prepares for his annual journey.

No matter what you wished for we hope that all enjoy a happy build up to the big day.

The Phoenix continues to spread its wings and spread joy wherever it flies.

Fly high my friends.

#lovethisclub

#loveourclub

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Weekly Waffle – 9th December 2018

Whenever I think I’ve summed up the best weekend another one comes along to challenge it for the top spot.  This weekend was amongst those!

High winds and on, off torrential rain didn’t dampen the parkrun spirit and the Phoenix were out in force yet again to get their 5k in at 9am.  On the sea front we were belted with the wind on the way out, and while helped by it on the way back we were also soaked!

Our other home was also well attended with some impressive performances.  The usual tourists also found new haunts to visit.  An unusual little route for three members with a unique spiral in and out part way round the looped course. 

It’s weekends like this, when the parkrun weather fairy fails to protect us from mothers natures worst, that we particularly pay tribute to those of our number who give up their time voluntarily to make sure these events take place.  Standing out in the cold wind and rain to make sure we get to experience our constitutional despite the conditions.  We thank you.  We salute you.

One headed up to mid Wales to represent the region in a cross country event which delivered copious quantities of mud in testing conditions.

Saturday night arrives.  A moment we’ve waited for for a long time.

The Ogmore Phoenix Christmas Party brought our family together for Christmas dinner.  

With surprises, prizes, fun and food we met in front of the Christmas tree bedecked with unique handmade Phoenix baubles.  One for everyone to take home.  Our family members who opened their envelopes to see a golden hue from their ticket enjoyed being treated as VIP’s for the night.  A plethora of prizes were won.  Milestone t-shirts were awarded.  Good food was consumed before we danced and sang the night away together.  It’s true that we run and that’s what brought us together but it’s something stronger that binds us and Saturday night we proved that.

Family Phoenix.  

Family Christmas.

Sunday was always going to be hard for those who partied the night away…

Some stayed very local.  Thankfully a slight improvement in the weather meant only wet conditions underfoot greeted those who ran for a pudding on mud, grass, tarmac, sand and water.  Lots of water.  But the sun even made an appearance as we crossed the beach! 

Puddings were won by all but notably a 2nd place was picked up by one of our regular speedies.

The capital drew others to a race wearing festive outfits with all enjoying immensely.

Another one draws to a close.

It’s been a good ‘un.

A damn good ‘un.

Phoenix bind together.

Stronger.

Closer.

Don’t change.

Keep doing what you’re doing.

Oh, and one more thing…

Merry Christmas.

#lovethisclub

#loveourclub

Disclaimer: This post was brought to you by a chairman very proud of everyone who volunteers their time to help make weekends like this happen as well as every single runner that heads out of the door to further their running and pursue their dreams!  Keep dreaming.  

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Weekly Waffle – 2nd December 2018

“Say hello, wave goodbye”

It came.  It went.

It’s 2018 and week 48 is over.

The weather changes constantly as the end of year draws near…  

Will it be fine?  Will it be windy? Will it be cold?

More chance of predicting the lottery than predicting what Mother Nature will throw at us?

Should we care? 

No!

Skin is waterproof and we have more than enough layers to put on to keep the elements from affecting us.  

As the storms struck we still made training and the recent restructuring saw numbers remain high throughout!

Saturday arrives and the 9am ritual begins…

But where I ask you?

Everywhere is the reply!!

With more events on the calendar than usual we show our love for travelling afar. 

Scandinavia, Australia, England and Wales.  

Wherever we laid our hat, that’s our parkrun home!

Good times from all – whether that’s in terms of performance or in terms of enjoyment!!

Never forget our ethos – run to enjoy the experience as much as the outcome!

A new day dawns with our heroes continuing their path to super stardom…

Our trail lovers tackled our toughest local route in less than perfect conditions but as is the won’t of those who covet the trails they all braved the experience with valour!  We all loves a hill or two!

As we see the inevitable worsening of conditions, to even take a step out of the door in running gear is admirable and so to see consistent training levels in spite of this is heart warming.  You’re a hardy bunch alright!

We bond.  

We bind together.  

We share experiences and when the going gets tough we lean on each other.  

Our bond is stronger than just the running.

I’ve said it before…

Friends.

Running Friends.

A mutual love for something that has touched us all.  

Whether in competition with others, competition with ourselves or not in competition at all, we all respect that we are fortunate to continue our running journeys.  As melodramatic as it may sound, please spare of thought for those of our number who are currently struggling.  Injury dogs many runners during their “career” and when it prevents them from enjoying the same experiences we are it can have a serious impact on their well being.  We extend love to those within our community in such a position.  It will come back.  You will recover.  When you do it will be stronger and fitter.  We look forward to welcoming you back when you are ready.

So as we enter a new month we look forward to the festive season…

A week from club celebrations we are getting excited to enjoying the party together… en masse!

In the meantime keep heading out of the door and keeping those legs ticking over!

Run.  

Enjoy. 

Fly Phoenix.  Fly.

As always, it goes without saying…

#lovethisclub

#loveourclub

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November review

parkruns

This month saw 201 parkrun finishes by our runners across 33 parkrun events. In month our members ran parkruns in a record 6 different countries. As expected, most were around Wales with a few just across the border in England. Further afield, the Sheards ran Loch Leven parkrun in Scotland, I ran Krakow parkrun in Poland, Dai James ran Clermont Waterfront in the US and Tim Rees ran at Toolern Creek in Australia.

There were 3 inaugurals attended in November with Karl running at the newest Welsh parkrun at Aberbeeg, Aled running Somerdale Pavilion, and David Kembery running Parc (prison) parkrun which is only open to prisoners and staff. I should point out he is one of the latter. At the time of writing, David still holds the course record with a 22:15 clocking.

Jo and I ran Ludlow parkrun which ranks 10th out of 571 for toughest UK parkruns according to this website https://the5krunner.com/2017/11/04/parkrun-difficulty-ratings-adjusted-course-times/ – a few of our members have run the toughest one listed, Lanhydrock, including Chris Pratt, Chris Stanlake, the Littlewoods, plus Shawn and Julie.

The final Saturday of the month saw another Phoenix takeover at Maesteg with our members filling most of the volunteer roles as well as 15 running.

Some standout performances in month include Tim Rees getting a parkrun PB in Australia, Claire Taylor notching up another PB at Maesteg, Alexis Barrett getting so close to sub 30 at Grangemoor and Chris Roberts beating his PB which had stood for more than 2 years. Dawn Hopkins celebrated her 50th parkrun with a huge PB at Swansea and Emma Loyns joined just 7 other current female members in running a sub 24 parkrun.

Our new influx of Zero to Hero graduates seem to have caught the parkrun bug with several notching up their 2nd, 3rd and 4th parkruns already and many of those improving times week on week.

10K races

We had a record 43 runners at the Richard Burton 10K despite it being just a week after many had completed Snowdonia Marathon. Niki Puleio added another sub 40 finish whilst new member Adrian Pearce missed out by just 13 seconds. Amy Roberts was our first female across the line in 47:29. Tammie Baker continued her amazing form this year with a PB making it several PB’s for the year across 5K, 10K and Half Marathon distances. The PB’s continued with Vickie Cameron-Davies, Claire Taylor, Nicola Allen and Maria George.

The Lovelucks were in action and picking up more age category prizes at the Oxwich Bay 10K. It almost goes without saying that the course was multi terrain and hilly.

We had 12 runners at the Mo Run 10K where Claire Dunbar-Bowen finished 7th female overall and 1st in her age category. There was also a PB for Leanne Parsons at the event.

A 10K with a difference to end the month with the Narberth Night Nobbler. Dan Clark and Brett Bonnell took on the event that starts in the dark on a hilly, multi terrain course.

Half Marathons

Only one Half Marathon in month with the inaugural Vale Half Marathon. The event takes in some of the Vale Ultra / 18 mile course along the Wales Coastal Path before looping back round to the start/finish in Llantwit Major. The event is a bit different to most as they set runners off every few minutes presumably to avoid congestion on the narrow paths around the course. On a tough course in wet conditions, Wayne Hayhurst led our runners back in 2:02 ahead of Nick Harris, Saul Harris, Sarah Littlewood and Darija Keenor.

Marathons

Just one marathon this month as well with Martin Beard running the historic Athens Marathons in 4:54.

Other races

A rare 10 mile race with the Sospan Multi Terrain 10 miler in Pembrey saw 9 members in attendance. Despite throwing in a couple of hills, sand dunes and a beach section, the course does allow for quick times and so it proved with Wayne Hayhurst, Simon Williams, Ashely Howells and Chris Stanlake all picking up 10 mile PB’s.

At the same venue a week earlier, Chris Pratt and Kris Denholm finished less than a minute apart in the second fixture of the Gwent League. A day later saw the second West Glamorgan XC league fixture where Adrian Pearce led the club home on the familiar sandy course at Kenfig. Claire Dunbar-Bowen was our first female as the women’s teams maintained their 6th place in Division 2. The mens team also occupy 6th spot in Division 2.

The penultimate fixture included in this years Trail Championship saw 6 members take on the Sodbury Slog. Search out the photos if you haven’t seen them already as you’ll see our runners wading through waist high muddy water which is one of the features of the event.

The final event to note was the Caer-hilly Trail Challenge. With around 1000 feet of elevation in less than 6 miles it was a tough one. A great event with a very reasonable entry fee that included a medal for all finishers and goody bag including stuff you actually want like crisps and a banana. The event also saw what must be the closest finish between our entrants in the clubs history. I led the way with 200 meters or so to go before Chris Pratt went flying past, I picked up the pace finishing within arms reach and not realising that Dan Clark was also hunting me down. The manually timed results had us all finishing within 9 seconds of each other but I think in reality it was more like 2-4 seconds at most. All good fun and all three of us said we’d probably go back for another attempt next year with added knowledge of what was to come.

Chairman’s Runners of the Month

November was a relatively quiet month after the furore of Cardiff Half with it’s huge attendance and then the trip to Snowdonia with runners and supporters out in force.

It’s notoriously a wet month and although the excitement of Christmas is just on the horizon it’s a time when many start to lose their mojo on the darker, colder evenings.  

Spring marathons mean one thing.  Winter training.  One of the things about marathon training is the length of time and number of miles it involves.  16 week programmes are common and so for the spring, they start now!  So.  On top of the darker, colder evenings you have to start building the strength and fitness to carry you through 26.2 miles.  Many are doing that now and one of our stand out runners is starting that journey again.  In amongst the beginning of the process she’s also notching up some quite impressive results.  Reading above it won’t have escaped your intention that we had a 7th place female finish, 1st in age category.  Not to be sniffed at!  Then, representing the club at a league fixture came in as first female to give our ladies a fighting chance in their division.  Holding just about every club record in her category she always impresses us with her running while still wanting to run with others during her training, enjoying the social aspect of the club too.  Worth saying also that the London Marathon place that she is training for was obtained by running a good for age time previously this year!!  I have no hesitation in awarding my Chairman’s female runner of the month to Claire Dunbar Bowen.  Well done Claire and good luck with the training.

To see a happy, smiling face is a huge lift.  We don’t smile enough.  It costs nothing and it’s amazing how it can warm someones heart if you just approach them with a smile.  I’ve bumped into my first choice for runner of the month at various events and at training lately.  He’s been through some tough periods where his health was worrying him and breathing was holding back his running.  With a real passion for running and always with a smile I had noticed during this time that his smile wasn’t quite as warm as usual.  Something clearly troubling him.  Recently I’ve seen it return.  Following a great run at Snowdonia Marathon Eryri (one that really gave him a big boost) I’ve seen him at parkruns with the same smile I knew so well.  Coupled with it was a renewed vigour.  The breathing was getting easier and with the passion had returned.  Cycling to and from training sessions, increasing the miles, putting in the the effort and seeing the rewards through enjoyment of something which has become a huge part of his life.  Love it.  I am absolutely delighted to award my Chairman’s male runner of the month to Mark Worrall.

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Weekly waffle – 25 November 2018

And the sun sets on another week…
The weekend started with a takeover. We have two favoured home locations to parkrun. (How long will it be before that word is committed to the english dictionary? I digress) If some are not by the seaside then it’s likely they’ve headed up the Llynfi Valley to complete their weekly 5k ritual. This week the Phoenix assumed the roles necessary to run the event allowing those who regularly give up their time to make sure the magic happens could themselves enjoy the event from the other side by running it. A great time was had by all even if they weren’t running.  
Those who headed to the seafront took advantage of the still and mild conditions to run well and swell the numbers in attendance.  
There’s always some who find themselves in foreign climes and end up notching up another one on their total elsewhere. This week was no exception. Some visiting old friends and one on the other side of the world avoiding snakes – not a problem we see often at home!
A few headed west to familiar territory for a night race. 10k. In the woods. In the dark. The Nobbler strikes again and was enjoyed by those who dared to face it in these conditions!!  
Sunday arrives and…. no races?  
What?
Did I hear you correctly?
NO RACES!!
Oh well, we still got out there and did our runs. With impressive numbers in Pandy and some heading down to sample what the Pudding Run will be putting us through in a couple of weeks, with a sunny beach section may I add, we managed to still get some miles in!!
A selfish addition to this weeks waffle I’ll add some personal notes.
As is the way with a busy lifestyle, training sessions have been elusive of late. Two days this week presented themselves as opportunities. The valley sessions are still highly attractive and a Thursday will always have a special appeal and this week was no exception with conversation flowing all the way round the challenging valley loop.  
Sunday trail this week ended up on the beach. Emerging from the dunes onto the beach with the sun breaking through the clouds was breathtaking. Peaceful. Running sometimes takes us to places we rarely go. When the conditions are just right these moments are cause for taking a moment. Taking it all in and realising exactly how luck we are. Lucky to be fit and healthy enough to enjoy this wonderful pass-time and lucky enough to share this with wonderful friends.  
We love our races but we also love training. Especially training together!
Keep up the good work guys!
#lovethisclub
#loveourclub

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Weekly Waffle – 18th November 2018

It’s Sunday and that time once again…

As we move further into the cold season we see a very pleasing increase in training numbers.  As new methods are tried to meet the needs of our ever growing membership, amazing feedback suggests it’s been a success!  Continuously striving to be better!  

What is really pleasing is that our heroes continue their journeys and consistency in numbers shows they have resilience to the falling temperatures too!!

Pleasant weather attracted many down to parkrun…

Home, the usual high numbers.  Away, many continue their quest to increase the number of locations and we all celebrate them as we see the pictures sent back – attracting us there in future weeks to follow in their wake.

Saturday also saw an opportunity to tell our club story and share the passion of the Phoenix with other clubs around Wales. 

Sunday.  Always a race day somewhere.  Cold.  Sunny.  Unique conditions for the time of year.  We’ll take that!  

It’s common to see events to the east and the west.  Today was no exception.  

Pembrey.  Just a week on from a previous visit for a league appearance, a crowd headed west again to tackle 10 miles of mixed terrain.  With a section on the beach with the sun beating down, air temperature cool, it makes a run become something rather special.  Some push themselves to the limit and race to win.  Some just run to enjoy the experience.  How can you not when this set of circumstances are presented to you!

Others headed east to tackle a hilly route organised by a local club.  With 1,000ft of climbing it wasn’t an easy 10k but all finished virtually together having enjoyed the whole experience.  One to be repeated.  

Meeting up with friends from other clubs is always a pleasure and races regularly present these opportunities.  Being a member of the running community brings with it a wide circle of friends with a shared passion and we don’t all run for the same clubs.  Always nice to catch up and pass the time of day!

It’s always the case that events decrease in number as we approach the end of the year but the passion doesn’t wane.  Keep getting out there and getting some miles in and, most importantly, meeting up with friends to run.  We love to run, but it’s always better with a few friends.

Keep up the good work lads and lasses!

It wouldn’t be me if I didn’t add (without tears, but an immense sense of pride Daniel Clark)

#lovethisclub

#loveourclub

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Weekly waffle – 11th November 2018

Well, well, well…

And I thought it would be difficult to get close to the epic Snowdonia Weekend, but we had a good try!!

Saturdays are usually all about the 5k!  You know the one… that free thing that always starts at 9am.  I’m sure you’ve heard about it…  

Well, indeed, there were a few of them enjoyed by many.

The usual big attendance on the seafront.  We were lulled into a false sense of security by the weather fairy!  Cold, tick.  Windy, tick.  Raining?  No!!  Winner…  However, setting off from the house the sky threatened and, right on cue, at 9am, it started.  Drizzle turned to rain turned to hail.  Temperatures dropped and we all got cold and soaked to the skin while being stung by the hailstones.  Sure enough as the last runners finished it stopped.  The clouds parted and the sun shone down.  Thanks parkrun weather fairy.  We love you, honest!  Despite the conditions, all completed their runs with some more of our amazing new starters graduating in style to hero status!  Character building start!

With our other local venue attracting several to Welfare Park we also saw a number of tourists getting their fix at various locations not only around the UK but also further afield combining a stag do in Poland with a bit of running!  That never hurts – we’ll combine anything with a bit of running!

A gang headed to another seafront location for a special 50 celebration resulting in a fantastic new personal best!  Always good to mark a milestone in style!

But Saturday wasn’t all about parkrun…

Some headed West to fly the Phoenix Flag on a Cross Country course around a Country Park.  Young and old (and I say that in the nicest sense – partly because I’m one of them) proudly sporting their colours in a strong running field!

Some headed further West and once again picked up prizes for fantastic running on a tough coastal course.  Making the Phoenix proud once again!

A good number travelled a few miles east for an event created to mark the centenary of the armistice that signified the end of the “war to end all wars”.  An interesting staggered start saw admirable performances all round.  Accidents happen.  One on his quest to complete a challenge came tumbling to the ground with a fear this would see it come to an abrupt end.  Members have rallied support in true Phoenix style!!

As if that wasn’t enough – a bunch travelled to the capital, adorned with fake moustaches and fancy dress to run in events organised to raise awareness of mens health issues.  A good cause, a great race, decent medal and that “oh so cool” coveted headband!! 

What a Saturday!!  More than most weekends in one day!

Time ticked by.  

Sunday arrived.

There are an ever increasing number of running events on the calendar.  

It is inevitable some would clash with significant events. 

The second fixture of another cross country league drew several of the Phoenix to a local nature reserve to run on sand, grass and a little bit of tarmac to stake their claim for points.  

But, despite the event, as the clock reached 11am runners were called to silence on the start line on armistice day.

A minutes silence that was observed by all with impeccable respect.

A haunting silence that invited all to remember those lost to war.  Those who never returned.

With those thoughts in minds and hearts runners gave their all with pride.  

Even a late downpour didn’t dampen spirits.

An intrepid group slogged their way through mud and waist high water in pursuit of a new medal and rather smart t-shirt! Despite some tumbles they all ended up victorious!

While those at home did the Phoenix proud, a lone ranger headed to the country where the marathon gained its name and, despite shoes falling apart, romped home in an admirable time!!

Happy to report our intrepid challenger from Saturdays race is sensing an improvement after his fall and the challenge could well still be on – our Phoenix are made of solid stuff!!

AND – despite all these races our new heroes still continued their journeys!!

WOW!!
What a weekend!!

You couldn’t be more proud after antics like these!!

Continue to do what you’re doing guys and gals!

Let’s continue to show the world what it means to fly like a Phoenix!

It goes without saying…

#lovethisclub

#loveourclub

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Weekly Waffle – 4th November 2018

Weekends come, weekends go…

Saturday this week saw a large attendance at parkruns dotted all over the country.  Local venues  hosted a large club contingent for two significant club milestones…  Torn, members headed to the sea while others headed up the Llynfi Valley.  The former a 250 celebration.  The latter a 100 celebration with halloween themed attire on the menu.  Both were attended and celebrated in style.

Sunday brought about a local memorial event which always attracts our members in great number and today was no exception.  Our “hills are friends” mantra is one which gets replayed many times during this event – although the last 3k, all downhill, is always a great end to a race!

A week on from almost a fifth of our membership heading north for a tough marathon we saw a significant racing presence once again.  And, once again, we are proud.

That pride swells as we see another increase in the attendance of our heroes on their running journeys, still committed to turning up every week to improve on last weeks endeavours.

An impressive set of weekend running achievements!

May I take this opportunity to remind all that the club is entirely run by volunteers.  Wonderful people who give up their time week in, week out to ensure things run as smoothly as possible.  For their time and commitment we are eternally grateful.  We also understand that sometimes life situations change and the levels of commitment they can provide change accordingly.  

As the club grows and develops we always welcome members offering their time, however much that may be, to help make things run smoothly.  However small the contribution it is very much appreciated by all who benefit from it.

As the evenings get darker and the temperatures drop the Phoenix remains resilient.  

Running, supporting, training and volunteering!

Let’s see what next week brings!

#lovethisclub

#loveourclub

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October 2018 review

parkruns

This month saw 172 parkrun finishes between our members at 19 different parkrun venues. As we as covering many of the South Wales parkruns, we had tourists at Swindon, Durham, Longrun Meadow, Bushy, Reading, Stonehouse, Barking, Bakewell and Wythenshawe parkruns.

Of note in month was David Kembery running the inaugural Parc (prison) parkrun and setting a course record of 22:15 which still stands at the time of writing. Karl Johnson ran at his 50th different parkrun venue for his ‘Half-Cowell’ status joining less than 3000 parkrunners worldwide to achieved that milestone.

Karl also ran his 100th parkrun with Grangemoor eventually being the venue after storms meant that Pontypridd (1st choice) and Maesteg (2nd choice) had were cancelled that morning following several other South Wales parkruns that had already cancelled the day before. Richard Lowcock James became the 3rd member of the club to run his 250th parkrun at the start of the month, with Alun Wylde celebrating his 50th parkrun on the same day.

The Lovelucks ran their first ever parkruns and tore up the record books with Anneliese clocking a new female club record of 20:41 whilst Steve’s time of 19:28 earned him another club age category record. We had 52 runners at Porthcawl on 20/10/18 for the latest Zero to Hero graduation and despite a huge proporation of our runners being in Snowdon the week after, we still had 36 runners at Porthcawl with many of the previous weeks first timers returning and improving on their debut times.

Half Marathons

We had an incredible 91 members finish this years Cardiff Half Marathon. Neil Jones led the way with a new club record of 1:18:33 with Ryan Evans getting a PB of 1:24:11 as our next finisher and Niki couldn’t quite improve on his PB just a few seconds behind. Dai James smashed his PB and came agonisingly close to making it 4 of our runners under 1:30 with a 1:30:09.

The PB list is incredible so here goes – well done to Simon Williams, Anotonio Antoniazzi, Steven James, Chris Roberts, Kevin James, Nigel Hitchings, Dawn Hopkins, Alun Wylde, Sam Miller, David McCann, Wayne Randall, Jo Gamba, Ashley Howells, Sarah Littlewood, Sara Bayliss, Nige Rees, Adam Rowe, Brett Bonell, Louise Foster, Emma Winch, Ian Lewis, Beverley Sheard, Gary Loo, Emma Marshall, Sally Littlehales, Deb Griffin, Stephanie Dyke, Fran Collins, Rosaleen Lian, Shawn James, Debbie Bennion, Deborah Edwards, Hannah Knight, Sharon Pritchard, Tammie Baker, Alexis Barrett, Siobhan James, Shelley Evans, Jamie Puddy, Siân Bright, Siân Jenkins, Cath Griffiths, Leah Morgan and Nicola Allen. Martin Beard and Natalie Esp ran the Royal Parks Half Marathon where Natalie beat her previous years time by an incredible 36 minutes showing her remarkable improvement over the past 12 months. Karl ran the Stroud Half Marathon in just over 2 hours to tick another event off in his mission to run 18 halves or longer in 2018.

Marathons

Before we get onto Snowdon, Niki Puleio ran the Bilboa Marathon in 3:16:41 and Chris Pratt returned to the Keilder Marathon managed a sub 4 hour clocking.

At Snowdonia Marathon the club had a record 43 finishers which incredibly is more than we’ve had running parkrun in some weeks earlier on in the year. Freezing temperatures at the start and a strong headwind for much of the second half of the race gave the already testing course an extra bite. Neil Jones lead the way but conditions meant that his quest to go sub 3 at Snowdon fell just short with a 3:02:06. Neil Price was up next with Gareth Richards and Aled Hughes all getting in well under the 4 hour mark. Wayne Hayhurst set himself a new marathon PB as did Dan Clark. Denise Bradley ran 4:34:00 PB and was our first female finisher. She later received a Welsh Championship Medal for finishing in the top 3 in her age category.

The PB’s continued with Dai McCann, Mike Brian, Nige Rees (who ran quicker at Snowdon than he did at London?!), Peter Walsh, Shaun Evans, Ashley Howells, Hannah Bartle, Rhiannon Buckley, Leigh Francis, Wayne Randall, Alexis Barrett, Dawn Hopkins and Shelley Evans. Many of those completing their first ever marathons.

Other Races

The only 5 miler of the month saw Shawn and Julie ran the Ghost Run in Cardiff whilst the only 10K of the month saw Shawn Cullen and Jayne Powney run the Swansea Epic 10K. At the 11 mile Ponty Plod race the Lovelucks were adding more prizes to their collection with Anneliese finishing first lady whilst Steve picked up another great age category placing. We had 15 runners in total at the event with many using it as a final long run before Snowdon a week later.

This year the club has officially entered the Gwent Cross Country League. The first fixture was at Llandaff fields where Niki, Chris Pratt and Simon Williams ran whilst Juliet Amner ran in the womens race. The fixture also doubled up as a fixture in the British Cross Country series meaning several Elite runners were on show.

Last but certainly not least, 5 runners took on one of the toughest races in the South Wales race calendar – the Gower 50 miler. Gareth Richards was our first member across the line with Kris Denholm next up. Both knocked over an hour off their previous Gower 50 attempts. Nick Harris was next up with Simon Harrison and Liz Sim running the course together finishing in just over 14 gruelling hours.

What a month – from Zero to Hero’s running their first 5K to 50 mile Ultra-runners and everything in between!

Chairman’s Runners of the Month

October was a great month for running… As Autumn well and truly sets in event frequency peaks before the inevitable downturn into Winter as the nights draw in.   My word of the month is “epic” – one which gets trawled out every year as my favourite marathon concludes the month on the roads around Snowdonia.  A great race and wonderful atmosphere within the club as we always take many up there.  Epic can also be used to describe the enormous turnout at Cardiff Half this year.  Wonderful running from lots and lots of Phoenix!

My first selection is from that crazy bunch who headed up north.  Someone whose running is always inspirational.  One of the first people I met in the club back in 2014.  Not unlike many of us there have been periods of injury which have prevented good progress for her but when the going was good, it was good!  With a unique level of determination she faces down races in a way that teaches us all valuable lessons.  Totally committed to her training but also more than willing to help and guide others through theirs.  I’m sure many will join me in saying she has been an inspiration to them throughout both their training and their racing.  In October she was first lady finisher in Snowdonia in a very impressive time of 4:34 – a marathon PB (how crazy is that on that course?) – coming down the finishing straight very strong holding a photo of her parents aloft as she crossed the line to honour their memory.  Impressive in it’s own right, but it also warranted a Welsh Athletics Masters Gold Medal for being first in her age category!  I am absolutely thrilled to award my Chairman’s female runner of the month for October to Denise Bradley.  Well done Denise and thank you for all the inspiration and encouragement you give to our running community.

With so many picking up Personal Bests this month it was so difficult to choose based on performance.  The beauty of this award, though, is that I have free rein on reasons for awarding.  For some, their running is out shadowed by other commitments they have within the club.  Giving their time to make sure other peoples running journeys are on the right track.  None more so than a coach.  Training sessions with club involve giving your own time and often not being credited with your own achievements.  This affects your ability to get your own training done for your own events.  I’ve already given the game away, I’m sure…  A unique opportunity presented itself this month.  A new parkrun initiative to introduce events into prisons came to Wales for the first time during October.  Working at the prison provided a totally unique opportunity to get involved in the inaugural running with a course record being set.  He doesn’t like to talk about it though!  He went on to tackle the Snowdonia Marathon at the end of the month and I had the great pleasure of sharing much of the distance with him, on and off, as we played cat and mouse.  We mutually supported each other through the last few miles finishing with tales to tell of a tough day, physically and emotionally.  I saw this guy dig very, very deep to fight off the demons at the end of the race!!  I have no hesitation awarding my Chairman’s male runner of the month to David Kembery.  Well done Dai!

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Weekly Waffle – 29th October 2018

Well.  What can I say?

Bursting with pride this weekend!

Holding the position of Chair comes with it many responsibilities.  It’s stressful at times.  It’s consuming in many regards.  But one thing this responsibility earns is the honour of being proud of everyone’s achievements. 

This weekend has shown off some brave performances on a course that tests people to their extreme.  But always remember that we don’t measure people by how hard the course is or how far the distance is.  Just lacing up your trainers and heading out of the door is equally worthy of our praise.  Never forget this.

During the week two had made the journey to the capital to navigate a 5 mile route in the dark with others dressed in appropriate attire for the season in an unusual midweek event at this time of year.

As the weekend arrived, despite the biggest club road trip of the year taking place on Saturday, numbers at parkrun were unaffected.  Large numbers still made their way to local venues swelling numbers at one to record levels with a plethora of best times noted.  Training sessions are working!

More tourism notched up for a few.  New milestones being reached. 

The constitutional 5k on a Saturday morning continues to woo many of our midst to a start line at 9am and they all continue to do the club proud.

It was impossible not to notice that the north drew many away from their regular Saturday morning activities.  

A long Friday drive for all, at different times of the day, brought everyone to the vicinity of the mountain steeped in myth and legend.  

A peak that commands respect from all those who come near.

The area, Eryri.  Snowdonia.

Beautiful, majestic, formidable.  

Demanding, unforgiving, unpredictable.

At its centre, Yr Wyddfa, casting a shadow over all that happens within it’s gaze.

Nervous newcomers to marathon running joined seasoned runners for the 26.2 mile challenging route around the base of the highest peak in Wales.

43 members in total tackling the full marathon distance – the highest membership participation at such a long distance to date.  And a tough one at that.

The journey north lashed those involved with rain, hail and high winds.  Many worried at what the mountain would command the following day!  The North Walian weather gods were kind and after depositing snow on the peak the clouds thinned to allow the suns energy to penetrate.  The wind continued to blow and took its toll in the latter stages of the race.

Many race outcomes were experienced but all battled with the challenges that the tough course threw at them admirably.  Did I say tough course?  I meant really tough course!!  Don’t respect it and it will teach you a lesson!!  26.2 miles of running is tough enough but add hills, long ones, in places where they just suck all your energy away and it quickly becomes a real battle!  

As important as those who tested their legs were those who waited for the runners to finish.  Some made their way around the course to offer cheer for runners when the journey was tough.  Some remained relatively static setting up and guarding what is quickly being established as Phoenix Corner to guide runners round the final bend to the finish line. 

A celebration of tough running where record numbers completed the full marathon distance at a single event with huge support crew in tow.  A weekend away where the social aspect of running was as important as the running itself.

The Phoenix was tested this weekend.  

We showed resolve.

We showed determination.

We showed strength.

We were victorious.

We will return to run again.

What’s next?  

After a weekend like that does it matter?  

Bring it on!

#lovethisclub

#loveourclub