Wednesday 30 November 2011

ITS A MARATHON EFFORT

After a brief period of easy running ,the staff in the York store are back on the marathon horse again. Staff member Andy is starting to look ahead to Brighton marathon in April. This will be Andy's second marathon and 2nd time at Brighton marathon. After a very successful run last year in very warm conditions he is looking to improve in 2012. Other staff members Darren and myself (Richard) , not wanting to change a habit of a life time will be back at Virgin London marathon in 2012. Darren will be looking to clinch first in his age category yet again. After a return to form earlier in year at London marathon and an even better run at Chester marathon (placing a very pleasing 6th) I am looking to improve on both and break below that elusive 2.40.
As it is abit early in the day to start intensive training we will all be ticking over with some relatively quality milage throughtout December and the start of the new year. After that....well that's when the really hard work begins. Will keep you posted on our progress.
Race update from one other store.....

Race / running info updates on the chaps from Up and Running Nottingham

Rob: On Sunday 6th November, I took part in the Dovedale Dash - a fell race of 4.75 miles. Its a regular race for me and the family. A capacity of 1500 for this race, costing only a fiver on the day. The terrain is totally off-road, taking in some paths, but pretty much is off the beaten track with muddy bogs, rocky banks, and a cold river crossing to contend with. Weather this year was pretty mild compared to years gone past.

The highlight of the race has to be the start - 1500 people tearing down a steep hill towards a ravine whereby you reach the river crossing. Link of Garmin activity here: http://connect.garmin.com/player/126972463

A cracking race, hard, but always fun for everyone involved. I finished 415th out of 1700 (oversubscribed this year) with a time of 41:04. Looking forwards to next years already

Kev: to follow [I know Kev is running at the mo)

Joe: I raced last weekend in the Leeds Abbey Dash, a 10k Road Race through the streets of Leeds city centre. Three guys broke away fairly early on, followed by two African runners who faded badly and got caught in the latter stages. Although I didn't quite have the pace to go with the leading trio, I found myself pushing the pace of the chasing pack for the majority of the race, especially in the fourth and fifth miles. Perhaps I payed for this slightly in the final kilometre as I was passed by one guy who had slightly more left in the tank; I ended up finishing a second behind in a new personal best of 29.55, fifth place overall. Next one in a few weeks!

Tuesday 29 November 2011

Liverpool social run Nov 2011

Despite the blustery conditions we had 24 runners including Matt, Alex and myself. It turned out nice in the end and we had lots of positive comments afterwards. It's encouraging to see regulars coming time after time as well as new faces. Lots of non-club runners came along and various local clubs were represented, including Mossley Hill AC, Running Bugs Liverpool, Liverpool Running Club and Liverpool Harriers. Many were asking about a December run, so though we didn't have one planned I think we are going to go ahead and do one now. Future runs are possibly going to include a Joints & Points-led warm up and/or cool down if we can get them down. See below a team photo.  

Milton Keynes Social Run Nov 2011

"A colder start with a bit of cloud cover, so for some , it was hats and gloves to start but our happy band of runners met at the store to register and gained free entry into our monthly draw for £100.00 worth of Sub4 clothing. It was good to see some new faces and after a quick warm-up we set off on our newly marked 10K course which takes in two parts of the 2012 Milton Keynes Marathon course - Grand Union Canal and Linford Wood. The gradual incline at the start made for a good cardio work-out and then it was all down hill to the canal. After that the terrain was fairly level. The wood proved eventful as I seemed came across a kamikaze squirrel who was not intending to move out of the way for anyone but my quick reactions saved a visit to the vet for the squirrel! The ground based markers worked much better than the race tape and the front runners made it back to the start in under 51 minutes (no, they didn't get the bus). The different pace groups meant that everyone finished within 90 minutes. After a short debrief most took advantage of 10% off at Costa and it was decided to change the date of the next social run as it would fall on Christmas Day!! So our next run will be on Sunday 1st January with registration from 11:15am (to allow for the night before) and start at 11:30am. We will then revert to the last Sunday of the month, so we will have 2 runs in January. Well done and a big thank you to all who took part in our run".





Saturday 26 November 2011

Race/ training update from U&R

Up and Running may sell running kit, but we also have a fantastic team who together run and race most weekends (not all at the same time). Below is a quick round up of what's going on. So if you want a chat about running and racing in your local area then have a look at the list of U&R shops and get your self down. We're more than happy to talk.
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Peter and Jon ran the Runway 10k sponsored by Up and Running Cheltenham last weekend. Times achieved Pete Hooper 43.25 PB, Jon Bird 40.40.
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[Ed - at the time of writing this] Up and Running Darlington was waiting to hear how their Andrew Wiles has got on at the European X-C champs / selection in Liverpool, he had been injured for two weeks so isnt on top form but were guessing a top 30 finish is on the cards.

Mic is looking to take part in the 2nd Darlington Duathlon event on Sunday 11th Dec and Pam isn't currently looking at any events until next year.
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No one in Up and Running Harrogate is really racing at the moment. However James is doing about 15mile weeks and complimenting this with crossfit about 4 times a week. James is looking to compete at crossfit, while being 'egged' on by the Crossfit coaches, but he doesn't feel confident enough on some of the movements. [Ed - we know he can do it!!]. Harry in Harrogate is turbo training 5mins with no resistance at the mo as he is coming back from knee surgery.
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Martin from Up and Running Manchester completed leg It Round Lathkil a couple of weeks ago, No PB but was pleased with his performance considering having a slight cold. He is now focusing on adding an extra 10 Miles a week to his Marathon training schedule up to xmas & New year ready for Barcelona 10k on New years Eve.

Graham- after a serious bout of Tosillitis (hospitalised) is back into some half decent runs in prep for Whythenshaw park league Cross Country next Saturday 3rd December. Then Armagh 5k in Feb 2012 looking for a PB.

Neil - Raced last week and had good result but now focusing on Wilmslow Half marathon 2012 again looking for a PB.
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Andrew from Up and Running Aylesbury Last Sunday ran the Herbert's Hole Challenge at Chesham, Bucks. It was a challenging multi-terrain course of approximately 10k through picturesque Chiltern countryside. He finished 5th overall out of 311 finishers and picked up a great £25.00 as first V40 as the 2x V40s ahead of me in 2nd and 3rd took the overall position prizes. All of this despite his calf seizing up with 3k to go. He's been limping this week since!
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Here is a couple of races that are from start of month from Up and Running Keswick.

Andrew from the store competed in the Wrekin Wrecker in Shropshire to gain qualification for the Borrowdale Fell Race next year.

Paul Wathan ran in the Amsterdam marathon and posted the 10th quickest time in the UK under23 this year. This helped him manage a qualifying time for London Marathon 2012.
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Sarah from Up and Running Cambridge ran Dingle Half with Matty from Up and Running Liverpool back in Sept.
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Tina from Up and Running Milton Keynes is in the early stages of her marathon training for the 1st Milton Keynes marathon. As she's been off this week we are expecting big mileage from her!!!!
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Paul from Up and Running Birmingham is doing Lichfield half in May. He is doing it in army boots whilst carrying a 35lb backpack!! Crazy !!
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So as you can see there is some real training going on, and some real dedication to running.  So next time you are near a store come on in.  The welcome will be warm, the atmosphere friendly and we'll help you achieve your goals as well.  

Friday 25 November 2011

Marablog #1

Marablog #1

Ok here's a brief update on how things are going on my training plans for Edinburgh Marathon.

There not!!

I had a very clear idea that there would be a couple of areas that would cause me problems.

Firstly my body, particularly my back would have to hold up to the intense pressure of mile upon mile of training. It has always been a weakness of mine and one that from time to time causes me to stop training properly. Secondly is my mind! It likes to talk me out of things and the inner conflict is often greater than the physical weakness that can be strengthened. So far I think that I haven't got my mind round the fact that I have paid good money towards something 6 months away and that if I don't start now then I will only find it all the harder 3,4,5 months down the line. So my first challenge is to get a routine, make plans and stick to them. A laid out path will help me get my head straight, and then the next thing is to work on my back. MUST do stretches and stop being lazy!!

So there you go, two runs down, a heck of a lot more to go and a goal that will give me a 'badge of honour' to be proud of. I admire anyone who does this marathon malarkey but more so because they can tame their inner voice.

Thursday 24 November 2011

Athletics Weekly award - Darran Bilton

Up and Running York's very own Darran Bilton was honoured in Athletic's Weekly this month.  He came 15th out of  the 'Top 100 Servents to their Club' award.  This was awarded for his committed support and years of service to his running club.

Congratulations Darran, for the award, and we truly hope that you have many more PB's and honours to come [Ed - we're sure you will].

Well done from ALL at Up and Running

Monday 21 November 2011

Heroes Dash Through Dalby!

This year's Remembrance Sunday was marked for the second year by a trail race through Dalby Forest (Dalby Dash), attracting record numbers to this new event that is becoming a Yorkshire phenomenon. The race was organised by International marathon runner Darran Bilton, based at Up & Running York and supported by local Rotarians, runners and the Forestry Commission. It was held to raise money for both Help for Heroes and also Pickering Rotarians, who help charitable causes both locally and abroad.

This years event attracted 384 finishers including RAF Sergeant Jason Shutt, who accepted a cheque for £1000, though organisers are confident that the amount will raise substantially once the proceeds are calculated. Bilton, who also acted as race director, read a specially penned poem to our service men and women before respecting a two minute silence which preceded a mad dash of the enthusiastic runners into the forest along well marked trails.

First to finish was Scarborough's James Kraft, who amazingly equally the course record of 33 minutes 39 seconds, followed by Marko Guero of Keithly and Andy Normaldale of York Acorn. The ladies race was a tussle to the line with York Acorn's Heather Tuffs finishing in 39 minutes 36 seconds, just 15 seconds ahead of Emma Barclay of Ilkley and Sue Haslam of Scarborough in third. Prizes included a meal at York restaurant Mumbai Lounge awarded to the first locals home, who this year were Dave Smith of Esk Valley and Kim England of Pickering. Full results can be seen on the race website 'dalbydash.com.'

Bilton commented that "although there is a challenging hill at the start, the happy atmosphere and amazing scenery more than make up for it. Whilst the speedy decent down Heck Dale made for a lightening-fast finish! The race is an amazing success due to local support from great friends, family and local business. That's why it will continue and grow... next year will include a junior race, too." Next year's Dalby Dash will be held a 11 o'clock on the 11th of the 11th month. No excuses for forgetting that date - entry forms out soon!!!

 


Tuesday 8 November 2011

Liverpool Marathon by Sarah Castro

Liverpool Marathon,

From the moment I signed up for this event, I couldn’t wait for October to arrive. In the eight months of training I learned so much about my body, my priorities and most importantly my strength of mind. Each season and distance posed complications, challanges and bizarre solutions that as a short distance runner I’d never anticipated.

Anybody from Merseyside will tell you that it’s not just water that separates Liverpool and Wirral.There’s a definite divide and a stark shift in atmosphere from the moment you reach the other side. Never had it ever been so palpable than the day I ran the Liverpool Marathon.

It was a sunny, clear start which was a relief. We were hemmed into the starting pens nervous and fidgety for 50 mins after the official start time. During this delay I gave my shiny new gadget a final test...disaster! It froze and worse still all its alarms and beeps all went off at once! Everybody around me turned around and laughed. Several of my neighbours gave it a poke and a prod but to no avail. Eventually, I conceded technological defeat and buried the watch in my emergency top. Gadget lesson #1 make sure you have a few outings with your new toy before you take it on the most important race of your life! It was almost worth it for the ice-breaker though.

After a cool reception due to the hanging around at the start, crowd support really warmed up at mile 6, New Brighton. 1 gel, 2 water bottles and a zero tab later, my marathon partner and I were ready to part ways. It was at this point my mind could wander freely, and go steady. Secretly relieved, I plodded on deciding how to entertain myself and take my mind off mile counting.

Looking around at the smatterings of blue, yellow, purple and pink charity singlets bobbing up and down around the grey mass of independents and club runners and occasional fancy dress characters, I’d not really considered how much this Marathon would mean to those running for causes. It wasn’t until a young woman in pink war-paint running for Cancer Research overtook at Birkenhead Ferry Terminal. The back of her shirt read, “For Mum and Dad xxxxxxx” The thought of losing both parents at such a young age stirred my emotions and I found myself truly rooting for her and all the charity runners with the stories that came along with them.

The Tunnel was longer than everybody anticipated. The faster runners took off and the slower runners lagged behind, leaving a sparse group of us in-betweeners spread out in the drafty dampness - very surreal.

Nothing prepared me for the ripping welcome as I reached the light at the other side! The samba band kicked out an infectious beat at the opening lifting my spirits and my pace. As I turned the corner for the riverfront exit, the Liverbirds came into full view framed by happy faces and clapping hands filling every possible edge of the tunnel exit. The support was overwhelming, making the business district a joy to run through. Crowds 5, 6 heads deep lined the streets and I couldn’t help but smile back. It was a comfort to know however grizzly the next 10 miles would be, there’d be an electrifying crowd to come back to!

The dreaded hill on Upper Parliament Street turned out to be a breeze, especially with the brass-band playing the Rocky theme at the road-side. At the top, the heavens opened and wouldn’t stop throughout the duration of the parks; the toughest part of the race. It was in this wet, leafy labyrinth I was expecting to encounter “The Wall” At mile 19, fed up with gels and ready for natural goodness, I scoffed my battered emergency banana in the hope of beating the wall. It worked!

The home stretch was amazing and I couldn’t quite believe I’d made it so far without stopping. The finish line was never visible until the last minute at which point I finished with a glorious sprint finish. 5.07:41, twenty minutes faster than my target – possibly due to my fantastic marathon partner who got me off to a speedy start! My watch never did stop bleeping, infact as I hobbled down to the kitchen for a midnight drink, it was still bleeping. The next day I vowed never to do a marathon again and signed up for the Great Northern Swim to give my arms a good thrashing for a change. I’m sure I’ll do another marathon one day though, just not any time soon!

By Sarah Castro (Cambridge U&R)

Tuesday 1 November 2011

West yorkshire cross country

We had two U&R staff racing at the 2nd west Yorkshire cross country league this weekend at Knavesmire racecourse. First in action was Laura kirk (headingley & Skyrac AC) continuing her come back from injury in fine style by winning the senior ladies race. Laura used her track speed on the flat course to close down two of the leading girls who over the first half of the race made laura's workload look cutout, but laura paced her race well and won by 27 seconds in the end improving on her 4th place from last time. In the senior men's race Richard smith (hudds & Holmfirth Harriers) finished 10th after a hard fought race he fell off the back of top pack and lost his 9th place on the last lap but a big improvement on last time and a lot of confidence gained the race was won by Simon deakin (leeds ac) great effort by both athletes well done!!!

McCain Yorkshire Coast 10K Road Race

Sunday Morning dawned bright and breezy for the McCain Yorkshire Coast 10k held on the sea front at Scarbrough.

This is becoming a very popular race, with 1200 athletes taking part this year, due in large part to the super fast course and also the excellant organisation and changing facilitys hosted by the Scarborough Athletics Club.

New Marske Harriers and Darlington Up&Running's very own Andrew Wiles made the journey across with his family and club mates early on Sunday morning.

Setting off with a strong field around him Andrew clocked the first mile at 4:38, and found two other runners with him, a club team mate mark Shaw, and local club athlete Daniel Agustus, with 3 other New Marske Harriers in close contention, easing into his running and sharing the lead with Mark Shaw the two New Marske Harriers worked hard to the turn-around point at 5K in a excellant 14:58 , making the potential to break 30mins for the first time a real possibility.

Putting in surges at 6 and 7k the pair broke free of the rest of the pack, with Mark making it a real race, battling into a strong headwind the pair found that the chance for sub-30 was slipping out of reach.

Reaching 8K Andrew put a sustained effort in and was rewarded with the sound of Marks feet falling away, with no potential challanger from the 3rd and 4th placed athletes Andrew poured on the pressure eventually opening a 25 second lead over Mark and 62 second lead over Daniel, to finish in a super 30mins and 57 secs - with 4 New Maske Harriers in the top 7 it was a perfect outing for the New Maske Harriers and their family/friends.

Well done Andrew and the team, we wish you a injury free winter!
Mic Doughty
Manager
Darlington, Up&Running
31st Oct 2011