Practice runs for Stafford Half

The road to the cricket club is underwater (the car park and the club are still dry).

We will meet at Rowley Park Stadium (car entrance is off West Way)

 

This year we are setting up two training runs ahead of Stafford Half Marathon!

Open to all club senior members, even if you aren’t running the Half.

As with all our training runs mustering is compulsory so your run distance will be greater than listed above.

 

The next run will be Sunday 25th February 9:00 am

  • It will start at the cricket club – meet at 8:50 for a 9am start .
  • Club photo — open to all members even if you aren’t running
  • It will start at the cricket club and be 13.1 miles (more with musters)
  • There will be three water stations location tbc

 

Slight change from previous years – due to flooding on the Isabel Trail — Don’t join at Izaak Walton Street — see map below

 

 

The first practice half  – 8 Miler

Sunday 11th February 2024

The first training run for Stafford Half. This year we have two distances to allow people to build up for a PB! This one was the first 6 miles of the route, but with starting and finishing from the Cricket Club an 8-mile run.

35 members took part.

For those who missed out on the fun, the full distance run is on 25th Feb — booking is now open.

 

 

 

AWARD NOMINATIONS and VOTING 2023

Our Awards night will be held on 23rd February at the Rugby Club — tickets are still available.

 

The committee has nominated the following people for the awards, but it is your vote that counts. So please take your time to go through the list.

 

Voting is now open to members (2023) over 18 years old and will close at midnight on Friday, 26th January 2024

How do I vote ?

You vote by using a personal link in an email that has been sent. Don’t worry the system can only identify whether you have or haven’t voted (your selection is private and can’t be seen even by the system admin).

Once you go past the terms and conditions screen, you have started your vote, please don’t stop until you have answered all five questions.

All the emails have now been sent if you haven’t had an email please contact me.

Nominations for Marshal/Supporter 2023

Mark Bentley
Always makes himself available to assist with supporting at races including the handicaps & relays. He also always takes on the car park duty at the Stafford Common cross-country year after year!

Leon Stringer
Always offering help to set up and shut down races and a friendly face along the course at marshal points. Happy to cover as the leader on Thursday Road Runs.

Colin Mitchell
Always sacrifices his runs to help others, plus always on hand to help set up during the day and evening of our races, cross country plus results guru for Bare wrist.

 

Sally Haycock
Helped day & night at both club races, plus bare wrist, cross country, and several handicaps – a great voice for supporting.

Antonio Treglia
Present at most SH events to marshal, support, or be active in the event. Always waits at the finish line to cheer the team over the finish line.

Nominations for Veteran Male 2023

John Finney
NSRRA Winner and multiple age awards

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
John Finney
41:22 02/18
45:07 12/06
01:27:20 2/17
01:40:27 9/07
02:38:35 3/07
03:56:34 9/08

Graham Williams
Graham is not only still participating in many races but he is also very supportive to younger members of the club and assists with guiding them through their training.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Graham Williams
31:16 2/95
38:48 5/94
64:15 6/91
01:27:47 3/97
02:21:17 3/94
03:23:57 10/93

Pete Chell
The most improved runner last year and has continued to perform at the same high level this year – lots of challenge races and first marathon.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Pete Chell
32:27 02/23
41:27 09/22
01:12:29 02/23
01:36:00 03/22
02:52:49 03/23
03:37:15 04/23

John Scott
maintains strong performances throughout all races. Finished second in his Challenge group and ran many races throughout the year, including the Yorkshire Marathon (achieving an excellent time and a PB). Has helped out at many of the Harrier events. Another fine year to back up last season’s – consistently high-placed finisher and a true Harrier.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
John Scott
31:45 06/22
39:07 09/22
01:06:50 11/22
01:26:29 03/22
03:17:10 10/23

Paul Bentham
He ran many races this year, finishing second in his Challenge Group, and was an active participant at many of the Harrier social events. Has helped out at many of the Harrier events.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Paul Bentham
40:19 03/23
47:09 10/23
01:50:41 03/23

Ian Hodkinson
An example to follow for members. His dedication and commitment to running is incredible. 3rd place in his NSSRA group and challenge group plus his work for the club as race director (and more).

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Ian Hodkinson
33:36 2/15
39:07 5/13
69:50 11/13
01:28:51 3/13
02:25:53 3/13
03:16:05 4/15

Mark White
Always covers for Simon and is supportive but doesn’t get the recognition he deserves. Great person to run and have a chat with – about anything!

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Mark White
37:49 07/18
42:10 6/13
76:22 10/12
01:32:50 3/14
02:15:59 3/14
03:32:48 4/14

 

Nominations for Veteran Female 2023

Julie Pattyson
A fantastic first full year with the club, regular attendance at sessions, leading some chase runs. An impressive collection of age group prizes in many races plus overall female prizes. Is super quick, supportive, and represents the club in lots of races.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Julie Pattyson
44:41 08/23
01:41:26 10/23

Ruth Edwards
Is always attending club runs weekly as well as entering races including all of the XC’s. She also takes part in park runs regularly. Another member to chat with (about anything) to help forget you are running or your troubles!

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Ruth Edwards
43:15 06/17
54:08 09/17
01:37:10 02/18
01:57:47 04/18
03:17:20 03/23
04:30:02 04/23

Chris Skellern
An all-rounder despite facing some personal challenges has participated in many different races, including the North Staffs League and NSCCL events. Has supported the Harrier events and plays a huge part with the junior section.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Chris Skellern
31:46 12/00
40:09 6/13
69:03 8/99
01:29:09 5/00

Jo Oliver
A constant in cross country, an ever-present supporter (and active runner) at events.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Jo Oliver
43:36 02/20
51:41 5/13
01:29:42 2/17
01:54:29 3/15
03:19:38 03/19
04:30:13 04/17

Sarah Gray
Has run a lot this year and improved her running times.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Sarah Gray
52:35 2/15
66:34 5/14
02:03:17 02/19
02:35:36 3/17

 

Nominations for Male Runner of the Year 2023

 

Ashley Jones
1st Harrier in spring treble took part in ultra with a very good time, ever-present at club runs, Challenger Champion, won the Cannock Chase Parkrun in December, very often the first Harrier back in the races, has run some of the NSCCL races and has helped out at many Harrier events. Also competed in the Chester Marathon and came 3rd in the Big Bear Cannock 50k Chase run.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Ashley Jones
30:21 06/22
38:17 05/23
01:06:50 02/23
01:28:22 03/22
03:15:33 10/23

Josh Dunning
Puts so much effort into his running, supports others, and has improved massively. Great to see him slowly beginning to participate in races too!

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Joshua Dunning
43:12 09/23

John Scott
Many good runs and Marathon PB!

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
John Scott
31:45 06/22
39:07 09/22
01:06:50 11/22
01:26:29 03/22
03:17:10 10/23

Jake Oliver
Jake has thrived following promotion to the challenge premier group & despite still being at Uni in Notts, has shown real determination to compete.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Jake Oliver
32:58 02/20
41:09 09/19
01:17:07 11/22
01:38:51 09/23
Ian Hodkinson
An example to follow for members. His dedication and commitment to running is incredible. 3rd place in his NSSRA group and challenge group plus his work for the club as race director (and more).
NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Ian Hodkinson
33:36 2/15
39:07 5/13
69:50 11/13
01:28:51 3/13
02:25:53 3/13
03:16:05 4/15

Tom Davall
Year of PBs did the London Marathon, lost his mojo then came back greatly improved and smashed every parkrun, 10K since!!

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Tom Davall
40:35 06/22
42:31 12/23
01:44:49 11/21
01:45:23 10/23
03:28:54 03/23
04:39:49 10/22

Robert Mitchell
He finished top in his Challenge Group, helped at the Harrier events, and ran many races this year, including half marathons and 10K’s.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Robert Mitchell
38:35 07/23
44:41 12/23
01:12:29 02/23
01:40:22 09/23

Nominations for Female Runner of the Year 2023

Julie Pattyson

A fantastic first full year with the club, regular attendance at sessions, leading some chase runs. An impressive collection of age group prizes in many races plus overall female prizes

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Julie Pattyson
44:41 08/23
01:41:26 10/23

Sarah Aitkenhead
Constantly improved through the year, took part in all the cross country races, and NSRRA races, gained PBs along the way, team player.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Sarah Aitkenhead
57:58 07/23
01:03:04 12/23
02:25:33 10/23

Abi Wells-Day
Debut season with the Harriers. Consistently first female at cross country.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Abigail Wells-Day
35:58 12/23
44:53 12/23

Saffron Latham
After doubting herself for a long time started taking part in many races and Parkruns (often getting 1st female) and PBs!

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Saffron Latham
44:41 07/17
42:11 12/23
01:11:31 11/23

Sally Haycock
Helped day & night at both club races, plus bare wrist, cross country, and several handicaps – a great voice for supporting.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Sally Haycock
41:45 02/20
50:50 05/22
01:28:35 10/23
01:58:14 03/22
03:25:57 03/20
04:47:58 10/22

Charlotte Mitchell
Had a good year with multiple PBs, and great performances and stepped it up from last year

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Charlotte Mitchell
38:41 02/23
44:05 12/23
01:37:35 11/23

Vanessa Parsonage
Had a good year with multiple PBs, and great performances and stepped it up from last year

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Vanessa Parsonage
36:20 02/23
43:23 10/23
01:20:05 02/23
01:38:16 10/23
02:49:33 09/22
03:45:23 10/22

Jo Jo Espley
Has put great effort in this year by taking part in lots of races/park runs and also improving her times. She also took on some of the XCs.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Jo Espley
48:42 03/23
01:02:23 04/23
01:48:24 02/23
02:27:02 03/23

Kerri Delaney
Stepped up to being Vice Chair on the Committee, finished top in her Challenge Group, ran many races during 2023, and has helped out a lot at the Harrier events.

NAME
5 Mile
10K
10 Mile
Half
20 Mile
Marathon
Kerri Delaney
43:59 02/23
53:52 05/23
02:03:59 03/20
04:46:03 10/21

ENGLISH NATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

DATE 24 FEB
WESTON PARK TELFORD

 

National Postponed
We very much regret to announce that despite every effort being made, we are unable to hold the National Championships at Weston Park on Saturday.
Thursday saw torrential rain for many hours, and much of the Park, including parking areas are underwater. Falling on already saturated ground, this made conditions impossible for parking.
We have spent the last 24 hours exploring every possible alternative, but we have not been able to solve the parking issues.
We will now explore all possible options, to hold our Championships at a suitable future date.
We sincerely apologise for all the logistical and financial problems that this will cause both clubs and individuals.
Further announcements will be made as soon as we can do so with any certainty.

 

People who have already signed up

Justin Green
 Michael Dobson
 Jake Oliver
 Finley and Sheryl Hayes
 

Weather watch

As we are all aware we have had alot of rain over a short time.

The car park at the cricket club is currently under water. (Thursday 4th Jan)

We will continue to monitor the situation, some short notice session moves may be needed. Please keep an eye on the web site and I will do my best to keep you updated.

This week we are using the Hough Retail Park (this has B&Q on it) we meet outside the old Argos.

 

Harriers Challenge 2024 – Races and Groups Set

If you want to take part in 2024.

We will automatically add your name if you took part in 2023 and ran one or more races.

If you didn’t take part this year but want to join the game in 2024 email me info@staffordharriers.co.uk

Races for 2024

The list of races has been confirmed. See the web page for details

Groups and participants

Have now been set. We can make mistakes so the groups aren’t confirmed until race2.

If you seriously think you are in the wrong group then email us.

Runners Wanted!!! Join the NSRRA!!

NSRRA Results for 2023

Here are the results of the NSRRA for 2023. I know a lot of you have already entered for this year, but there is still time as the first race does not start until February – Alsager 5 miler. Please follow the link to enter – North Staffordshire Road Runners Association (nsrra.org.uk) or to find out what Chris Skellern our ambassador for the NSRRA has to say about the click here – Runners Wanted!!! Join the NSRRA!! – STAFFORD HARRIERS

Results in Groups –
Group E 3RD Ian Hodkinson
Group X 1ST Sally Haycock

Results in Age Groups –
Male 75 – 79 2ND John Finney
Male 75 – 79 3RD Graham Williams
Female 45 – 49 2ND Sally Haycock

There were several Harriers that just finished out of the frame because they didn’t manage to run enough races, with a couple more races they could have been placed! A big well done to you too!
Looking forward to seeing lots of yellow and black next year!

Hello fellow runners! Calling all those who fancy a new challenge for next year! Chris Skellern has been asked by the lovely Ken Rushton to be an NSRRA (North Staffs Road Running Association) ambassador. So, here is a bit about it!

The NSRRA has been going since 1974 and Chris has been a member for over 25 years and joined not long after she joined the Stafford Harriers! The NSRRA is a local league that is aimed at promoting road running locally and chooses races organised mainly by running clubs. In a saturated world of races, it is great to support local running clubs, who have been providing great, competitive races for lots of years! Being an NSRRA member costs only £10 for the year and on providing the organiser with 3 recent timed race results, you will be placed in a division appropriate to your ability. There are 20 races throughout the year and the best 12 count, very similar to our Harriers Challenge. There is also a separate category for age group, so there are 2 chances of winning! They also do a Team Competition so we would like lots of Stafford Harriers to join!

Chris says that she loves meeting like-minded running folk and loves competing against runners of similar ability, it brings her competitive side out! She also loves the fact that you get ‘3 races in one’. So you have the actual race itself, your division in the NSRRA and your Age Group in the NSRRA! Three chances are better than one!

Chris says her favourite race of the NSRRA series is the Uttoxeter Half (you know that nice flat race!!! NOT!!) she does prefer these middle-distance 10 mile – Half marathon races. There are races for all though, with short races like the Dave Clarke 5 and the Alsager 5 (flat as a pancake) and then through to 10k’s, 10 milers, Half marathons, and even some 20 milers like South Cheshire 20. Some are flat, some are lumpy but there are races for everyone!

Chris encourages all abilities to join and guarantees everyone will be welcomed, you will meet lots of new people and it will help improve your running and keep you focused throughout the year! If you are interested, please click on the link below.

North Staffordshire Road Runners Association (nsrra.org.uk)

Let’s see if we can get lots of yellow and black pounding those streets next year, and make our club proud!!

Harrier events over Christmas

 

Events will be published on our calendar for bookings.

 

 

 

 

 

Date
Day
Event
02/01/24
Tuesday
Speed – Ed
03/01/24
Wednesday
Improvers – Colin Middle Group – Tom Improver Speed – Saffron
04/01/24
Thursday
Road Run – Ian
05/01/24
Friday
Improvers (Combined) – Colin
06/01/24
Saturday
07/01/24
Sunday
Trig Race
08/01/24
Monday
All sessions are back to normal

 

 

Volunteers for Bare Wrist Race – New Years Day

 

 

As normal we can’t hold these events without the help of Harriers members (and their families).

Dates and Times

Date
Time
New Years Day
9:00 am
HQ opens
New Years Day
9:30 am
Bib collection and on-the-day entry (cash only)
New Years Day
11 am
HQ closes
New Years Day
11:15 am
Race start
New Years Day
1 pm
Prize Presentation

 

 

If you can give us some time on New Years Day please put your name down below:-

 

This form is now closed for submissions.

 

A List of people helping so far

colin mitchell
 Val Stuart
 Sarah Aitkenhead
 Sarah Gray
 Paul Bentham
 Joan Finney
 Graham Williams
 Eddie Smith
 John Scott
 Sally Haycock
 Pam Thakrar
 Sue Williams
 Wayne Gallagher
 Chris Skellern
 Mark Oliver
 Charl Mitchell
 Charlotte Ward
 Tom Davall
 Robert Mitchell
 Amy Oliver
 

 

 

 

London Marathon 2024 Ballot Draw Result

We got confirmation that we have 1 London Marathon place available as a club and so arranged a ballot. This took place on Sunday 10th of December.

1. Vanessa Parsonage
2. Kerri Delaney
3. Sue Jones
4. Antonio treglia
5. Nitesh Thakrar
6. Charlotte Mitchell

 

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