2009 - 2010 XC Season
2010 HOME COUNTRIES INTERNATIONAL - BERRY HILL MANSFIELD – 27 MAR10
By Wg Cdr Dave Cole
The Combined Services team ventured to Berry Hill Mansfield for the Home Countries International for the first time in a number of years. The previous occasion in which the Combined Services competed in this match was 14 years ago, when RAF Halton hosted the match , and it was competed over the Inter-Services course. There had been a heavy rainfall around the country leading up to the race, but the course was firm underfoot with very little mud. The temperature was moderately warm with a wind gusting in the exposed areas of the course. The race was run over the traditional National XC relay course which is undulating but fast, using multiple laps for each race. The Combined Services were represented by Junior Men who ran 8km, Snr Ladies who ran 7km and Snr Men over 10km.
Two RN athletes who finished in the top four in the Inter-Services, were unable to compete due to out of area commitment, and as a result the Junior team fielded only 3 athletes. It was therefore imperative that they not only perform well but also to ensure they completed the course to ensure a scoring team. The race started with the National Teams making the break. Chris Searle from the Army tucked into a group of runners for the first lap but the pace was so great that he tailed off and finished 28th out 31. Ashley Siddall (Army) and SAC Steve McLachan (RAF) had a head to head battle for ¾ of the race when Ashley managed to break away. They finished 30 and 31st respectively. Although the team did not place highly in the race, they gained valuable experience in competing in an International XC Match, and which they can now build upon as they move up to the Senior age category.
The following race, the Ladies, covering a distance of 7 km was exciting. Sophie Morris (Army) got off to a very quick start. Sophie has previously represented England; she was rubbing shoulders with Tara Krzywicki, who has represented Great Britain over the Road and XC, as well as other athletes such as Hatti Dean and Hannah Whitmore, to mention a few. Sophie ran a solid race and settled down alongside Tara. It was enthralling to see Sophie pull away in the latter part of the race to finish 6th. Danielle Hodgkinson our next runner, from the Army finished 21st , and put in a solid performance from start to finish. Jodie Digby (RAF) our 3rd runner who admitted to being a little apprehensive at the start, but nevertheless admitted to enjoying the whole experience, and ran alongside Shaun Morgan (Army). Unfortunately for the team score, Shaun dropped out with a lap to go, so it was vital that Jodie finished; she did in 25th position. Of further mention is Marilyn Kitching, representing Wales, and finished a creditable 15th. Marilyn was formerly an RAF and Combined Services runner.
The Senior Men’s race was tough. From the start the pace was phenomenal and moving up in a class of competition the Combined Services Team felt the pace. However, Rob Bugden (RAF), who has run for England this season and emphatically won the Inter-Services, managed to mix it with the top boys for the first half of the race. He dropped off the pace to finish 8th and a minute behind the eventual winner, Bruce Raeside (Scotland), who had an exciting sprint finish with James Walsh from England. Rob was disappointed with his run, since he had previously beaten the winner this season. Ben Livsey (RAF) our next runner in 10th place, who coincidentally was also representing Scotland, had an excellent run, finishing the season on top form and only 14 seconds behind Rob. Mark Greenwood (Army) had a steady start and worked his way through the field to finish 15th. The remainder of the combined services runners was lead by stalwart Dave Cole (RAF), and old enough to be the Dad of probably all the runners, finished 20th followed by Gareth Watkins 21st (Army), Kieran White 22nd (RAF), Matt Blunden 23rd (RAF). Matt was drafted into the team on the day before the race and showed tremendous loyalty in running given his recent return from injury and is now starting to return to form and finally Craig Williams 24th (Army) who did not run to his full potential due to exercises.
Overall, the team thoroughly enjoyed the experience and finished in a credible 4th place. They now look forward to next year’s race which will held in Northern Ireland.
2010 INTER-SERVICES CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS REPORT
WG CDR DAVE COLE REPORTING
Introduction
In a break in tradition the RAF hosted the 2010 Inter-Services Cross Country Championships at RAF High Wycombe on Fri 26 Feb after many decades of having run the event at RAF Halton. The Course, which follows National Trust land around the back of the Headquarters and Officers’ Mess is very technical and difficult. With many severe descents and ascents the course poses significant challenges for athletes and the recent rain only added to their woes making the course very difficult under foot. The Clerk of the Course Sgt Richie Parkins and the RAF Halton Home for Sport Team had done a fantastic job of organising the event in very difficult surroundings. Thankfully on the day the weather was dry and although windy the course was very well protected. A considerable number of spectators turned up to watch the races, including many Friends of the Association and Jane Akazi from Serco, our sponsor.
Junior men - 3K
Sgt Al Turnbull (RAF Brampton/Wyton/Henlow) the Junior Team Manager and SAC Nic Gaulder (RAF Brampton/Wyton/Henlow) Team Assistant had assembled a good squad of junior RAF runners. Encouragingly the numbers of junior men's Cross Country runners have increased this year, however an outright Inter Services win was thwarted by only by 6 points to the Army with the Navy taking individual Gold who failed to finish with a complete team. The course was reduced to 3km from the advertised 5km due to an unidentified marshal giving erroneous directions, throwing athlete’s race plans into disarray, however all athletes completed the same course.
RAF Championships winner Haydon Carter (Halton), competing in his first Inter Services, lead out the field and was very competitive only missing gold by a small margin; vowing to improve once he had completed his training phase of his career. Inter services regular, Steve McLachan (Coningsby) proved his place by finishing 7th, supported by David Grindrod (St,Athan), Jake Mitchell (Kirton in Lindsey), Tom LeBreton (Leeming) and Eddie French (St,Athan) with reserve runner Joe Turner (Coningsby). A solid performance by a very motivated squad showed that the hunger for victory was foremost in the athlete’s minds and traditional service rivalries continue to run deep. RAF Championships silver medallist, Tom Haywood (St,Athan), was missing due to injury and a promising new comer, Chris Cartwright (Cosford), could not afford to miss an important phase of his course. Both were disappointed in missing this year’s competition and were possible individual medallists.
Key to the ongoing success of the Junior Men's team is the time and effort placed in mentoring the young athletes with an eye on transition to the senior team. Former RAF service men, Mr John Gordon (St,Athan) and Mr John O'Rourke (Cosford) show great dedication in coaching the pooled trainees with the selfless devotion to others. Flt Lt Ben Trapnall has already made contact with the athletes, with some already donning the RAF vest on the Indoor circuit, keeping the vain of talent throughout the year. I encourage all OICs to be mindful of the new generation in promoting our sport especially those who fulfil the criteria for junior men for next years Inter Services Cross Country.
Individuals
1st Mne Redmile RN 12:32
2nd AC Carter RAF 12:39
3rd L/Bdr Minett-Searle Army 12:55
Team
Army 22
RAF 28
RN – only 2 counters
Veterans – 10K
The veteran’s race comprises teams of 6 runners representing each of the services. Although only the first 4 runners from each team contribute directly to the score, the efforts of the 5th and 6th scorers are no less important as they can still affect the individual positions of scoring runners from opposing teams. The RN has been the dominant force in veteran running over recent seasons and they set-off determined to again retain their title. Inside the first 2 miles 3 of the RN runners, headed by eventual winner Cpl Mark Croasdale, had broken away from the field and it looked ominous that they would be untouchable. A chasing pack containing an Army runner and the RAF’s Sgt Ronnie McWilliam (RAF Waddington) and Sgt Al Turnbull (RAF Brampton/Wyton) looked no less determined as they ploughed on tenaciously across the unrelenting course. A little further back Sgt Mark Prestwood and Sqn Ldr Chris Reeson (both RAF Brize Norton) tracked their nearest rivals.
It was always anticipated that such a difficult course could throw-up surprises. And so it was the case when Cpl Gerrard (RN) retired injured from his 3rd place before the start of the second lap. Unbeknown to the RAF athletes this mishap threw the race wide open. As the spectators watched the runners pass with a quarter of the race remaining it was clear that the final result would be very tight indeed. 1st and 2nd places were obviously going to be held by the RN. The next group also remained unchanged from the first lap, although Sgt Al Turnbull was starting to find it difficult to keep with the pace. It was hard to see where the RAF could gain the precious places that they would need for victory, and it was equally difficult to get information to the runners that may have spurred them on.
In the final stages Sgt Ronnie McWilliam was unable to close a very slight advantage that SSgt Bell (Army) had gained on him and narrowly missed the 3rd place that his efforts deserved. Sgt Al Turnbull followed closely behind with a solid 5th place. Sgt Mark Prestwood and Sqn Ldr Chris Reeson managed to hold their positions but even their continued efforts were unable to close-down the 3rd RN scorer who finished in 7th place. Although Flt Lt Carl Thompson (RAF Brize Norton) and Sqn Ldr Simon Bell (RAF Henlow) held off the RN’s 4th scorer his 15th place was sufficient to take the victory away from the RAF by a single point.
The result of the race sparked a wave of speculation as runners looked at themselves to see if they could have done anything to have found just one more place in their performance. In the final analysis it was clear that all of the team had given their all and should do nothing other than take away great pride from what was probably the most demanding course that has ever been used for the Inter-Services Championships. ………
Individuals
1st Cpl Croasdale RN
2nd Lt Cdr Dunn RN
3rd SSgt Bell Army
Team
RN 25
RAF 26
Army 30
Ladies - 5K
The ladies always face a monumental challenge in this event since the strength and depth of the Army ladies team is massive, however, as in previous seasons team spirit and optimism was high. Disappointingly for the team, Team Captain and stalwart runner, FS Tara Park (JSSU Digby) was forced to pull out with injury, but the team maintained focus and direction. Furthermore, an additional sadness was being felt by Sqn Ldr Pam Wheeler (RAF Halton), the ladies Team Manager as this was her last event after many years in charge of the team. Always enthusiastic, incredibly loyal, Pam was extremely buoyed by the ladies recent form and felt that maybe this year they might just clinch it from the Army. This determined and loyal approach typified Pam’s tenure as Team Manager where she has always got the best of of her team and generated within in them a strong bond and loyalty to RAF Athletics. From the gun Cpl Jodie Digby (RAF Halton) mixed with the red army vests and was closely followed by Fg Off Helen Taylor (RAF Henlow). The demands of the course suited the team, most of whom compete in longer races and this basis provided great strength. Flt Lt Jo Johnson (RAF Halton) and Flt Lt Becky Griffith (Swanick Mil) both produced amazing races, well supported by Sqn Ldr Jo Roe (JSCS Shrivenham) and Flt Lt Christine Murray (HQ Air Command). If team spirit, determination and effort counted towards the winning of the Inter Services trophy then the RAF Ladies would have won hands down!
As the race progressed, Cpl Digby maintained her position at the front of the field to secure a highly commendable 4th place in 23.34. 5th – 7th places were secured by Fg Off Taylor in 23.52, Flt Lt Johnson in 24.27 and in a neck-breaking finish on the line Flt Lt Griffith in 24.34 to overcome the 4th Army runner by 1 sec. Sqn Ldr Roe achieved 11th place in 25.23 and the gold medal for the 1st veteran in the race whilst Flt Lt Murray completed the team line up in 16th place in 26.26.
This result was the best for the team for 12 years which bodes extremely well for the ladies team for next season, although it is widely acknowledged that it will take a lot to match the strength of the Army ladies. Despite, losing to the Army Pam never let up on her Team Manager’s responsibilities and could be seen praising the efforts of individuals and reminding them of their brilliant team performance. She then set about encouraging her team to support the remaining races, before sadly at around 1.30pm walking off the course for the last time as Team Manager.
Individuals
1st SSgt Morris 21:39 Army
2nd Cpl Hodgkinson 23:05 Army
3rd Sgt Morgan 23:09 Army
1st Lady Veteran Sqn Ldr Jo Roe 25:22 RAF
Team
Army 14
RAF 22
RN 51
Senior Men - 10k
The athletes were all laughing at the fact that they had a false start in a 10k cross country race! The signal had not been heard by all the runners and so it was far to staggered as start and disrupted to be fair. 2nd time around and the Senior Men were off. As expected Flt Lt Ben Livesey (RAF Kinloss and Scotland) (2009 Inter-Services Champion) and Cpl Rob Bugden (RAF Cosford and England) (2010 RAF Champion) took off at an incredible pace considering the challenges that lay ahead. The rest of RAF Team cognisant of their form elected for a slower pace, however, although the course in total is extremely challenging the first 5 mins are slightly down hill over hard tracks, so the pace was relentless. Following Livesey and Bugden was LCpl Williams (Army), who had recently won their Championship. The race had therefore split very early with the first 3 out of sight and the remainder within sight of each other in a large group. A mishap saw Livesey lose a shoe early and stopping to replace it lost him considerable ground to Bugden who went on to finish 1st and be crowned the 2010 Inter-services Men’s Champion. The 2009 Inter-Services Champion, Livesey, recovered very well to comfortably finish 2nd well ahead of Williams from the Army.
Former Junior, SAC Sam Mitchell (RAF Cosford) was meanwhile steadily moving through the field. A training partner of Bugden, the rewards of which were clearly showing. Mitchell eventually finished 5th overall, a superb performance in his first Seniors Inter Services. The future bodes very well for the RAF and Mitchell, where he is sure to be a regular feature within the Team. Talking of regulars, Wg Cdr Dave Cole (RAF High Wycombe) was running strongly with Cpl Kieran White (RAF Benson) and SAC Oz Ellis (RAF Benson). White and Ellis have this season lifted their performances considerably and this boded very well for the team as with Cole the 3 of them were packing very well. Eventually, they crossed the line 8th, 9th and 11th respectively and completed the 6 counters for the team
The 2008 Inter-services Champion Cpl Matt Blunden (RAF Waddington) although only just recovering from knee injury had been loyal and brave enough to declare himself fit to run for the team following the short notice drop-out of 2 top RAF athletes. Matt’s performance although off his usual standards typified the ethos of RAF Athletics and he battled on to finish 20th and claim another Gold Team Medal. Like Matt, Cpl Lee Athersmith (RAF Cottesmore) had been suffering with a back injury and despite struggling to run down hill, without considerable pain decided to run. Lee proved also to be an exemplar of RAF Athletics and battled through pain, risking further injury, to finish 15th and claimed his first Inter-Services Gold Team Medal. Both these individuals’ commitment and courage helped the Senior Men secure the title; they uncomplainingly accepted the challenges of the course and the risk that they were placing themselves at as they put RAF Service first ahead of their personal needs. Making his debut and also coming into the Team at short notice to make-up for one of the drop-outs was Cpl Graham Hunt (RAF Leeming). Hunt has for a number of years travelled as a reserve and finally he achieved his ambition to run in the Senior Men’s Team. Undeterred he ran very well to finish 16th.
Very quickly it became apparent that the Senior Men had regained the Team prize, with 35 points, ahead of the Army with 43 and the RN with 120.
Individuals
1st Cpl Bugden RAF
2nd Flt Lt Livesey RAF
3rd Cpl Williams Army
Team
RAF 35
Army 43
RN 120
Conclusion
At the presentation Air Cdre Gammage thanked all those who had contributed to the organisation and running of the event, but made special mention of the contribution of Sgt Riche Parkins. 2011 will see the RN hosting the Championships.
On Fri evening many of the Teams and Friends of the Association went to the Red Lion Wendover for the traditional dinner. Flt Lt Ben Livesey was awarded the Team Manager’s Trophy for his outstanding all round contribution to RAF Cross Country. It was also an opportunity to thank Sqn Ldr Pam Wheeler, retiring Ladies Team Manager and WO Phil Kafel, retiring Veteran’s Team Manager. Both were seen off in good style by the Association and their sadness at having to retire from the Association on leaving the RAF was obvious. We will miss them greatly, but in moving on the Association was delighted that Sqn Ldr Jo Roe and WO Clive Wintrip assumed their positions as the respective Team Managers.
RAF CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS – 3 FEB 2010 – WG CDR DAVE COLE REPORTING
RAF High Wycombe hosted for the first time the RAF Cross Country Championships over a 5k course, with the men completing 2 laps and the juniors and ladies one. The Stn Cdr Gp Capt Tony Radcliffe started the race and approximately 100 men and women set off over the National Trust land that HQ Air Command backs on to. The course follows a series of tracks with some very technical assents and descents and areas of mud. It is a traditional cross country course and far removed from the trend to run across open parks and sports pitches. There is no doubt that the technical aspects of the course and the conditions caused anyone running it difficulties and it is not easy. Anyone who completed the course should therefore be justifiably proud of their achievement.
In the men’s race Cpl Rob Bugden (RAF Cosford) was making his first appearance at the RAF Championships and after his recent runner-up spot in the Midlands Championships and with the absence of the 2009 Champion Flt Lt Ben Livesey, his victory before the race had even started was almost assured. From the gun Bugden moved away with an assured confidence of an athlete in considerable form and quickly made his intentions clear. Also in great form Cpl Steve Robinson (Cottesmore) was not deterred by Bugden’s start and used him as a target to drag him clearly away in to the 2nd spot. SAC Lee Athersmith (a regular fell runner) would normally have revelled in the High Wycombe course, but Athersmith simply used one lap of the course to familiarise himself with it for the Inter-Services race and then stopped due to a recent back injury and the need to ensure fitness for the Inter Services. This left the vastly improved, this season, Cpl Kieran White (RAF Benson) to move in to 3rd. The Championship was won by Bugden easily, Robinson 2nd and White 3rd. Wg Cdr Dave Cole (RAF High Wycombe) secured the veterans and Sqn Ldr Mark Pattinson (RAF Brampton/Wyton/Henlow) the Veteran 50. In the team event 1st RAF Lyneham, 2nd RAF Benson and 3rd RAF High Wycombe.
In the ladies race the imperious Cpl Jodies Digby (RAF Halton) simply powered away from the competition and continued her outstanding form easily taking the Ladies Championships title. In 2nd place FS Tara Park (Digby) and now also a veteran proved that she is still capable of putting in a superb performance and she comfortably secured 2nd place and 1st veteran. In 3rd place was Flt Lt Jo Johnson (RAF Halton), who along with Digby and Sgt Mandy Meecham secured the ladies team prize for RAF Halton. RAF High Wycombe was 2nd and RAF Northolt 3rd. The ladies Veteran 50 was won by Sqn Ldr Pam Wheeler (RAF Halton), her 1st Championship Gold and ironically her last race at the Championships!
In the Junior Men’s race AC Carter (RAF Halton) finished 1st, AC Haywood (RAF St Athan) 2nd and SAC Mitchell (RAF Scampton) 3rd.
All eyes now turn to the Inter Services Championships. The Juniors, Ladies and Veterans face a difficult challenge against the Army. However, the Senior Men’s team is the strongest for many years and all top 3 individual places and the team prize are looking strong probabilities.
At the Championships presentation, special mention was made of the outstanding contribution made by the retiring Ladies Team Manager Sqn Ldr Pam Wheeler (RAF Halton and the Veteran Men’s Team Manager WO Phil Kafel. After decades of tireless support to the Association as athletes and management the Deputy Chairman of RAF Athletics Association presented them both with a life time achievement award.
RAF v Fire Service v Police - 20th Jan 2010
WG CDR COLE REPORTING
RAF Halton hosted the annual RAF v Police v Fire v Civil Service v Oxford University v USAF v Clubs various on 20 Jan 10. Despite, the snow and even rain on the day, the vast majority of the course remained good going, meaning that the pace of the race was fast. Through the woods was a little tricky, but still plenty of purchase was possible.
The Cross Country Secretary, Sqn Ldr Simon Bell (RAF High Wycombe) had done very well to encourage more associations and clubs to take part. This year, 102 men and 34 ladies raced.
In the men’s race over 10.6 k expectations were high for Cpl Rob Bugden (RAF Cosford), who was making his debut for the RAF over cross country. Rob led from the start and engaged in a lengthy battle with the Fire Services Tom Ford. The pair of them took it turns to lead and to his credit, Rob showed tremendous tenacity to pull though and win the race by 10 secs from Tom. 3rd place went to Pete Tucker from the Police and in another great performance on the day, Cpl Steve Robinson (RAF Cottesmore) finished 4th. The next RAF runner home was Cpl Kieran White (RAF Benson) who finished 5th. Both Kieran and Steve have really lifted their games this season and both these performances augur very well for the Inter Services, where they both will feature. Next home for the RAF was veteran and RAF Cross Country Team Manager Wg Cdr Dave Cole (RAF High Wycombe) who came home 9th. Completing the 6 counters were SAC Oz Ellis (RAF Benson) 14th and taking a break from RAF Mountain Biking (Cpl Dan Lewis) 16th.
In the team race the RAF Men came 1st with 44, Police 2nd with 63, Fire 3rd with 67 and the Civil Service 4th with 126.
In the ladies race Cpl Jodie Digby (RAF Halton) enjoyed running on home turf and mixed with the leading group from the gun. Clearly demonstrating her superb form in the month before the Inter Service Championships, she maintained her position with the leading pack to achieve an excellent 4th place overall. Also displaying good form, Flt Lt Jo Johnson (RAF Halton) also took advantage of racing on her training ground and strormed round to achieve an outstanding 7th place. Closely followed by in-form Flt Lt Becky Griffith (Swanick Mil) who finished just 7 sec adrift in 8th place. Completing the team scoring was Sqn Ldr Jo Roe (RAF Wittering) who ran extremely well and finished in 27.22 to achieve 9th place. The race was extremely well supported by RAF Ladies as the event was opened to athletes in the Lincs Service League and the Southern Services League which made for an excellent turnout of 32 runners.
In the team race the Police came 1st and the RAF Ladies 2nd narrowly missing out by a couple of points.
RAF AIR COMMAND CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009 – 16 DEC 09
WG CDR DAVE COLE REPORTING
RAF High Wycombe again hosted the 2009 Air Command Cross Country Championships on 16 Dec 09 around the woods to the rear of the HQ. The course which follows tracks and paths is particularly demanding and the heavy rain and snow made the course all the more treacherous. One lap of the course is approximately 3.25 miles, with the ladies completing one and the men 2.
Both races started at the same time and following the hard track for half a mile the race then turns off into the woods to begin the arduous and tricky tracks. The rain had made most of the going extremely difficult with many inches of mud, coupled to the many ups and downs of the course it certainly proved to be a tough event.
The ladies race saw 9 taking part and Flt Lt Jo Johnson (RAF Halton) took the individual title in 25:54. The men’s race saw 49 take part and SAC Oz Ellis (RAF Benson) continued his excellent form and won the race in 44:03. In the Ladies Team event, Halton were 1st, Benson 2nd and Brize Norton 3rd. The Men’s Team event was won by Lyneham, High Wycombe 2nd and Brize Norton 3rd.
WO Phil Kafel and Sgt Richie Parkins laid out the course and made sure that all the arrangements on the day ran smoothly, Roger Doust and the RAF Officials undertook the timekeeping and Sgt Craig Metcalf completed all the results. Without these personnel the race would just not take place and all the athletes are most grateful for their efforts.
Sir Sefton Branker cross Country Trophy Match - 09
Combined Service X-Country Match Liverpool - 09
The spell of good weather on the 28th November made conditions at Liverpool ideal for Cross Country running after the down pours of previous days. The course was soft under foot and not the quagmire that the athletes had to contend with in previous years. Making his debut for the RAF, Cpl Rob Bugden (Cosford) finished 40th, who is starting to show his prior form when he finished 16th in the World Student games XC Champs in 2008. Rob’s training partner Sam Mitchell, also Cosford, had a solid performance finishing 78th. Both runners are currently being coached by former RAF athlete John O’Rourke.
Cpl Steve Robinson (Cottesmore) shone through with a superb performance placing him 84th, this is mainly due to his consistent training and coaching from Paul Larkins, former GB International. Kieran White (Benson) is continuing to show his steady progress by finishing 106th, this is off the back of a successful track season. The Royal Navy had gained the next two places in the Combined Services team: Mark Croasdale (Vet) and Brian Cole finishing 125th and 129th respectively. Sgt Al Turnbull (Vet) made steady progress thorough the field finishing 137th, Al has recently returned from a stint in the Falkland Islands. Steve Frear (Benson) had a disappointing run after a strong start to the season his 138th position is not a true reflection of his form. SAC Graham Hunt (Leeming) gained valuable experience at running at this level finishing in a credible 146th position.
All the ladies had solid performances; the Army being the prominent force in the Combined Services team, which also included 1 lady from the Royal Navy.
The next race major RAF races are:
RAF Representative Match –RAF Halton 20th Jan 2010
RAF Championships – RAF High Wycombe 4th Feb 2010
Inter Service Championships – RAF High Wycombe 27th Feb 2010
Results:-
Ladies
51 Amanda Jones 30:38
67 Kelly Haniver 31:55
71 Sophie Townsend 32:20
90 Lanne Jones 34:11
97 Julia Bloomer 35:23
Men
40 Rob Bugden 30:15
78 Sam Mitchell 31:24
84 Steve Robinson 31:29
106 Kieren White 32:17
125 Mark Croasdale 32:55
129 Brian Cole 33:04
137 Alan Turnbull 33:25
138 Steven Frear 33:27
146 Graham Hunt 33:46
RAFAA V Oxford Uni V Various Clubs - 09
By Wg Cdr Dave Cole
The second fixture of the season took place at Shotover Country Park, hosted by the students of Oxford University. In bleak wet and windy weather conditions The RAF Team visited Shotover Park for this annual event against the university. Heavy rain the previous days and also on the day made the course a little slippy, but not as bad as you would think given the heavy rain. However, the biggest challenge is often finding the course as many RAF personnel have found to their cost over the years. However, this year, despite a few late arrivals, the RAF had solid men's and ladies teams. RAF officials again provide support and also supporting the teams was Air Cdre (Ret’d) John De`ath.
The Dark Blues had entered a considerable number of runners in each event and first up in the ladies race there was the usual charge at the start as youthful exuberance gets the better of them. The mood was lifted by the RAF W team being able to field a competitive team. Making their debut for the team were Fg Off Hannah Pike (Cosford) and SAC Naomi Hadley (Benson) who both raced extremely well in the difficult wet and windy conditions. The demands of the course, not helped by the poor marking and frequent wrong turns by the leading runners of the University team, placed Team Captain FS Tara Park (Digby) and Flt Lt Becky Griffith (Swanick Mil) in a commanding lead with just about a mile of the race remaining, but the strength of the dark blue vests of Oxford came through at the end. Completing the team line up were Sqn Ldr Jo Roe (Wittering) and Sgt Mandy Meechan (Halton). The Team prize went to Cambridge with 11 points and the RAF 43 points.
In the Men's race the university was well represented and straight from the start a number the Dark Blue runners moved to the front. Cpl Steve Frear (RAF Benson) moved position himself up the front and not far behind SAC Sam Mitchell (RAF Cosford) was running well. Further down the field was Wg Cdr Dave Cole (RAF High Wycombe). Steve battled hard but after 2 laps he finished a creditable 5th, Sam 9th and Dave 14th. Sgt Al Turnbull (RAF Brampton) continued his return to running after injury with a solid run in 21st. In the team race Oxford easily took the team prize with points and the RAF points
Results:
|
Team:
Oxford University: 11
RAFW: 43
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Team:
Oxford University: 23
RAF: 122
RAFAA V Cambridge Uni V Eastern Counties - 09
By Wg Cdr Dave Cole
On the 7 Nov 09 at RAF Halton, the RAF hosted the Eastern Counties and Cambridge University in this annual cross country race. The event is hosted by each team and this year it was our turn to host the event at RAF Halton. Due to a fireworks display on the lower fields, the traditional course was not used. Instead, the course began on the other side of the camp, near the Burnet gymnasium and was a hybrid of the Halton Hills course, but avoiding the big hills! The ladies would complete one 2.5 mile lap and the men two 2.5 mile laps.
This weather on the day was glorious sunshine and although there had been heavy rain the previous day the area had drained very well by the time of the start of the races. This meant that by and large the going was good with only patches of leaves providing any problems with footing.
The ladies race attracted a fairly large field, with both Cambridge University and Eastern Counties bringing a number of runners, some with very good pedigrees. From the start the Cambridge and Eastern runners placed themselves well, but in particular, Naomi Taschimowitz from Cambridge, appeared to be in imperious form. Followed by 2 Eastern runners, the first 3 places appeared tied up very early in the race. For the RAF Fg Off Helen Taylor (RAF Henlow) was again showing that she is returning to very good form. Helen performed very well in this very competitive field and eventually finished 7th the remainder of the RAF Ladies Team was made up of Sqn Ldr Jo Roe (RAF Wittering) and Sgt Mandy Meechan (RAF Halton). Both battled extremely well and Jo finished 15th and Mandy 18th Jo’s performance secured her 1st Veteran.
The commanding team presence of the Cambridge University Ladies Team secured them 1st place with 10 points, Eastern Counties were 2nd with 15 points and the RAF Ladies 3rd, with 40 points.
In the Men’s race both the University and Eastern Teams provided a considerable number of athletes. An old friend of the RAF’s appeared in the Eastern Team; former Oxford University student Ian Kimpton presented himself in Eastern Colours. The presence of Ian and a number of other Eastern runners indicated that this year they were determined to put on a good show. Cambridge was also well represented and a large number of young students toed the line. The RAF presented a Team that contained many veteran runners. However, we were still hopeful that Cpl Steve Frear (RAF Benson) might be able to position himself well within the field. Within half a mile of the start Ian Kimpton made his intentions clear and took on the lead. However, Steve and a number of Cambridge and Eastern runners kept close order. Further down the field, feeling his age, Wg Cdr Dave Cole (RAF High Wycombe) was trying to be inspired by running with athletes at least half his age! Keeping close order on Dave was SAC Oz Ellis (RAF Benson), whose recent form has been great to see, with him elevating his standing within the RAF Team considerably. As side Oz will shortly compete in the Cyprus Challenge and given his recent performances is likely to be very well placed in the event. Further down the field, Sqn Ldr Simon Bell (RAF High Wycombe), Flt Lt Carl Thompson (RAF Brize Norton), Sqn Ldr Chris Reeson (RAF Brize Norton), Cpl Dan Parry (RAF High Wycombe), Sgt Richie Parkins (RAF High Wycombe), WO Steve Langley (RAF Honington), Gp Capt John Lawlor (RAFC Cranwell) and special appearance Chairman of RAFAA Air Cdre Richard Gammage (RAF High Wycombe) made up the rest of the RAF Team.
As the race progressed it became clear that the Eastern Team were in a commanding position and Ian took 1st place easily and Matt Grant of Cambridge 2nd. However, in a brilliant battle Steve Frear secured 3rd place. Having to rely on too many veterans the RAF Team could only finish in 3rd place. Dave Cole’s efforts also paid off with him taking 1st Veteran – perhaps not too difficult given the age of the Cambridge Runners! Final team points were Eastern Counties 35, Cambridge University 61 and the RAF 108.
Despite the weak team performances the 3rd place of Steve Frear and Jo Roe and Dave Cole securing the Veterans prizes was some consolation.
At the presentation Air Cdre Richard Gammage congratulated all the competitors and also made special mention to the Home for Sport staff at RAF Halton, Match Officials and to Sqn Ldr Simon Bell for all his arrangements in making the event a success. Both Cambridge University and Eastern Counties made special mention of the warm welcome, high standard of organisation and the fact that they looked forward to returning in the future.
The Allied Component Command Headquarters Ramstein Cross Country Championships - 18 Oct 09
RAF LADIES STRIKE GOLD
On Weds 28 October at RAF Halton, the Mens and Ladies Cross Country Teams competed in the annual CC Air Ramstein Cross Country Race. In unseasonable warm and dry conditions the ladies competed over 3.5 miles and the men 6.5. The course proved to be exceptionally fast due to the firm going. In a field of 31 ladies expectations for RAF Team were high and straight from the start the RAF ladies were very well placed at the front. As expected both Cpl Jodie Digby (Halton) and Fg Off Helen Taylor (Henlow) were well placed for medal positions. In close pursuit was FS Tara Park (Digby) utilising all of her experience in a measured pace which allowed her to close in and use her strength to help lead the rest of the RAF Ladies home. Cpl Tamsym Rutter, Flt Lt Jo Johnson and SAC Helena Smith closed out the ladies team, all very well placed to ensure a team victory. In a testing race Jodie and Helen battled valiantly, but in the final mile the Polish ladies moved in to the top 3 positions with Jodie eventually finishing in a very creditable 4th. Despite claiming the first 3 places, the Polish Team did not pack as well as the RAF and the ladies secured the Team prize and for the 4th consecutive year.
In a field of 43 Men the Polish Team were fielding their usual semi-professional athletes. However, despite the loss of 2 top RAF athletes to illness and commitments, the RAF Team remained very strong. From the gun Flt Lt Ben Livesey (Kinloss) took on the Poles and to his credit held the lead for a considerable part of the race. In a very close race 2 of the Poles eventually moved ahead of Ben, but in a stunning performance Ben held on to finish 3rd. Given the status and standard of the Polish runners, Ben's performance was outstanding. As Nimrod aircrew his ability to mix that of an operational member of aircrew and that of top athlete is truly outstanding and marks him out as one of the RAFs top sportsmen. Meanwhile the rest of the RAF Team was battling well, lead by Cpl Matt Blunden, SAC Lee Athersmith and Cpl Steve Frear. The RAF Team Manager and senior RAF Veteran Wg Cdr Dave Cole was also working hard for team points along with SAC Oz Ellis, Cpl Graham Hunt and SAC Nick Gaulder. Their battling performance ensured that the RAF easily secured the runners up slot, but the Polish Team secured 1st place.
Air Cdre Richard Gammage Chairman of RAF Athletics commented that not only was it outstanding sporting success for the RAF, the event also highlighted the superb support that RAF Halton, RAF Uxbridge and the RAF Sports Board applied to the event. Although the RAF Ladies Team and Flt Lt Ben Livsey's performance were the highlight of the day, a special mention must be made of Sqn Ldr Al Pearson (RAFC Cranwell), who as Project Officer very successfully organised the event.
Halton Hills - 09
By Wg Cdr Cole
The 30th consecutive Halton Cross-Country Race will took place on Wednesday 19 August. The event this year was run in high temperatures and was nearly postponed as the temperature hovered too high. However, a good sized field started and to avoid an area within the hills, due to Forestry Commission constraints, was longer than normal at approximately 8 miles. The ground all over the course was dry, but the hills remained the same and presented even the strongest runners with considerable challenges.
From the Burnett Gym through the Wendover Woods the runners made their way. In the men's race Wg Cdr Dave Cole (RAF High Wycombe) continued his fine form in this event and broke away from SAC Oz Ellis (RAF Benson) on the first of the 7 hills, the Snake, and went on to win in 49 mins. Oz following a great track and road season proved that he has advanced considerably as an athlete this year and finished 2nd. 3rd place in the men's race was Cpl Dan Parry (RAF High Wycombe). RAF High Wycombe wrapped up the men's team prize and Dave Cole also took the veterans title.
In the ladies race Cpl Jodie Digby (RAF Halton) won the ladies race and Flt Lt Jo Johnston (RAF Halton) took 2nd place. The ladies team prize was won by RAF Halton.
Although a race, anyone who completed the course was a winner, this is a very tough event, compounded this year by the extra distance and heat.
Many thanks to the RAF Halton personnel for organising this event. A donation from the entry fees was made to the RAF Benevolent Fund.