Junior Awards Night

“On Wednesday, 20^th December the Harriers staged the Junior Christmas Party at Flipout in Stone which saw them enjoy an hour on the trampolines followed by food and presentations. 28 Juniors attended the event, many who had represented the Club at various races and Cross Country events during the course of the year, and all appeared to have a great time. Seven awards were given out at the end of party, as follows:-

Award	Name
Junior Girl Newcomer of the Year 2017	Saffron Latham
Junior Boy Newcomer of the Year 2017	Ben Green
Junior Girl Most Improved Runner of the Year 2017	Caitlin Saunders
Junior Boy Most Improved Runner of the Year 2017	Matthew Hilsdon
Junior Girl Runner of the Year 2017	Saffron Latham
Junior Boy Runner of the Year 2017	Ben Cook
Recognition of Merit, Commitment & Achievement during 2017	Harry Beckett

The Junior Coaches would like to thank everyone for their hard work and commitment during 2017, and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Chris S, Ian, Graham, Chris E & Mark”

Junior Section Report for December 2017

Sunday, 3^rd December

Apedale Dash, Apedale Community Country Park, Chesterton

Ben Deakin was the only Junior to have run in this race along with his Mum, finishing in 74^th position and with a time of 49:46. There were 242 finishers. Well done Ben!

Nottingham Christmas 5K, National Watersports Centre

Jake Oliver ran this race as did his Nan, whilst his Mum ran the half marathon, which took place on the same course, and finishing in 19^th place, achieving a PB time of 21:24. There were 200 finishers. Well done Jake!

Sunday, 11^th December

92^nd Pete Hodgett’s Memorial Handicap Race

There were three Juniors who ran in this festive Handicap race, George Hodkinson, Matthew Hilsdon and Jack Heath. George finished in third place and received a prize. A big well done to all three that ran, putting in some excellent times.

Saturday, 16^th December

4^th North Staffs Cross Country Race, Stoke

This was supposed to have been the final North Staffs Cross Country race of the year but was cancelled due to freezing rain causing dangerous car parking conditions. The cumulative results over the previous three races were therefore used to decide team finishing positions, with our Juniors gaining recognition as follows.

Under 13 Boys – 10^th place

Under 17 Men – 4^th place

Well done to all those who ran in these three events during the autumn, and thanks to Chris Skellern and Ian Hodkinson for their continued support, and to Karen Hilsdon and Sarah Gray for their help with the token collection.

Wednesday, 27^th December

Wheaton Aston 10K

Ben Deakin ran in this post-Christmas event, finishing in 77^th place and 2^nd in his age category, in a time of 45:06. There were 481 finishers. A big well done to Ben!

Wednesday, 20^th December

A presentation was given at the Annual Junior Christmas Party, held at Flip Out, Stone, to recognise seven Juniors, voted for by the Coaches, who had consistently ran well during the year, as follows:-

Name	Award
Caitlin Saunders	Most Improved Junior Girl
Matthew Hilsdon	Most Improved Junior Boy
Saffron Latham	Newcomer Junior Girl
Ben Green	Newcomer Junior Boy
Saffron Latham	Runner of the Year Junior Girl
Ben Cook	Runner of the Year Junior Boy

A new additional award was given out this year, which went to Harry Beckett, for Recognition of Merit, Commitment & Achievement during 2017.

A massive Well Done to all of the above Juniors. Hopefully these awards will inspire some of the other Juniors during 2018 to do their best and perform well.

Finally, the Junior Coaches would like to thank all of the Juniors for their great efforts, hard work and achievements during 2017, and wish them all the very best for 2018. Thank you as well to all of the adults who have helped out with and supported the Juniors throughout the year, it is very much appreciated.

Junior Section Report for November 2017

Saturday, 4^th November

National Cross Country Relay Championships, Mansfield

We had a total of 12 Juniors running in this event, which saw some very high calibre runners from around the country and provided a great learning experience:-

Under 13 Boys

Name	Leg	Time
Matthew Hilsdon	1	8:54
Ben Green	2	10:31
Harry Beckett	3	10:38

Overall finishing position: 97^th out of 97 teams, total time: 30:04

Under 15 Boys

Name	Leg	Time
Ben Cook	1	7:34
Jake Oliver	2	8:46
Robert Gray	3	9:20

Overall finishing position: 104^th out of 106 teams, total time: 25:40

Under 17 Men

Name	Leg	Time
Matt Bonney	1	10:16
Robbie Gorman	2	10:53
Kian Arnott	3	11:46

Overall finishing position: 58^th out of 64 teams, total time: 32:57

Under 17 Women

Name	Leg	Time
Taygen Pike	1	13:05
Chloe Burrows	2	13:48
Saffron Latham	3	12:53

Overall finishing position: 64^th out of 64 teams, total time: 39:47

A massive well done to all those who ran in this event, achieving some very commendable times.

A big thanks to Chris Skellern and Ian Hodkinson for organising the teams, their continued support and encouragement.

Saturday, 18^th November

3^rd North Staffs Cross Country Race, Stafford Common

22 Juniors turned out to represent their club, running on local soil

Under 11 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Matthew Black	18	6:33
William Gray	28	6:59
Jack Moran	31	7:00

Overall finishing position: 7^th, 77 points

Under 13 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Matthew Hilsdon	29	11:48
Jack Heath	43	12:29
Sebastian Conaghan	45	12:33
Ben Green	54	13:40
Harry Beckett	55	13:41

Overall finishing position: 10^th, 117 points

Under 15 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Ben Cook	14	14:26
Jake Oliver	34	16:34
Robert Gray	40	18:43

Overall finishing position: 6^th, 88 points

Under 17 Men

Name	Position	Time
George Hodkinson	9	17:50
Matt Bonney	10	17:54
Robbie Gorman	17	19:05
Ben Deakin	28	21:12

Overall finishing position: 2^nd, 36 points

Under 11 Girls

Name	Position	Time
Isla Fraser	27	7:05
Caitin Saunders	39	7:35
Edie White	52	8:15

Overall finishing position: 10^th, 118 points

Under 13 Girls

Name	Position	Time
Rose White	34	7:36

Under 17 Women

Name	Position	Time
Saffron Latham	15	20:17
Chloe Burrows	16	20:41
Taygen Pike	DNF

A massive well done to all those who ran in this event, achieving some very commendable times.

A big thanks to Chris Skellern and Ian Hodkinson for their continued support and encouragement, and to Karen Hilsdon and Sarah Gray for collecting the tokens.

Sunday, 19^th November

Cannock Rotary 10K, Cannock Chase

Saffron Latham ran in this race, the course of which was all on tarmac, finishing in 98^th place, in a time of 59:58. There were 133 finishers. Well done Saffron on achieving a great time!

Saturday, 25^th November

The Chasewater Christmas Pudding Dash 5k and 10K

We had just two Juniors running in these races. Ben Green ran in the 5K race, finishing in 19^th position, out of 194 runners, in a time of 25:11, whilst in the 10K race Ben Deakin ran, finishing in 28^th position, out of 316 runners, in a time of 45:43 and was second in his age category.

Well done both Bens!

New Wednesday Night Fast Road Runs

November has seen a new small group starting, with Phil Hilsdon leading some of the older, faster Juniors covering a distance of between 5.5 and 6.5 miles, capable of running at least 7.30min/miles. The session is intended to focus on progressing the juniors looking to move in to 10K road races next year. The initial feedback has been very positive from all that have ran in this group. Thanks to Phil for his time, encouragement and commitment with this.

Park Runs

November saw the first anniversary of the Cannock Chase Park Run, and over the last 12 months it has been really pleasing to see so many of the Juniors turn out early on a Saturday morning, keen to improve on their times, and of course beat their parents. Well done guys, keep up the great work!

Junior Section Report for October 2017

Sunday, 8^th October

Katherine House, Shugborough

We had 10 Juniors competing in the two events as follows:-

5k Fun Run

Name	Position	Time
Murphy Hamilton	8	17:54 – erroneous
Jack Heath	33	27:03
Senan Bryne	48	28:55
Max Croston	49	28:58
Harley Farrant	53	29:05
Jenny Farrant	55	29:13
Freya Haycock-Hall	70	30:41
Ellie Withington	91	32:15
Keeley Hamilton	116	34:21

Total number of finishers: 209

n the 10K race, Saffron Latham ran, finishing in 183^rd place, out of 397, and in a time of 59:08.

A big well done to all those who ran in these races.

Wednesday, 18^th October

Stafford Grammar School, District Cross Country Championships

We had a number of Juniors taking part in this event in which they ran representing their schools, rather than the Harriers, with several qualifying to the next round, which will take place during January of next year. Once again, it was really good to see the Juniors cheering on their fellow Harrier friends, as well as the other members of their school teams, which demonstrates the Harrier comradeship and team spirit. A big well done to all those who took part in this event.

Saturday, 28^th October

2^nd North Staffs Cross Country Race, Park Hall

We had 14 Juniors running in this event, as follows:-

Under 11 Girls

Name	Position	Time
Caitlin Saunders	43	10:41

Total number of finishers: 51

Under 17 Girls

Name	Position	Time
Saffron Latham	17	14:12
Taygen Pike	18	14:50
Chloe Burrows	19	14:55

Total number of finishers: 19

Under 11 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Will Gray	37	10:50

Total number of finishers: 59

Under 13 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Matthew Hilsdon	47	11:23
Ben Green	57	12:41
Jack Heath	58	12:45

Total number of finishers: 60

Under 15 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Ben Cook	14	10:09
Jake Oliver	32	12:04
Robert Grey	36	13:09

Total number of finishers: 36

Under 17 Boys

Name	Position	Time
George Hodkinson	11	21:13
Robbie Gorman	15	21:57
Ben Deakin	25	25:02

Total number of finishers: 26

This was yet another good turnout by the Juniors, achieving some very commendable times and positions. A big well done to all those who took part in this event, and a special thanks to Chris Skellern and Ian Hodkinson for their continued encouragement and support, and to Karen Hilsdon and Sarah Gray for helping with the token collection.

Sunday, 29^th October

Coven Canter10K

Ben Deakin was the only Junior to run in this event, finishing in 46^th place, in a time of 47:35. There were 101 finishers. Well done Ben!

Junior Section Report for September 2017

Tuesday, 3^rd September

The Cosford Spitfire 10K, RAF Cosford

Ben Deakin ran this race with his Mum, finishing in 39th place, in a time of 46:16. There were 756 finishers. Well done Ben!

Thursday, 7^th September

Harriers Handicap, Brocton

Four Juniors competed in this event with Jack Heath winning the race for a second time. A massive well done to Jack!

Name	Position	Net Time
Jack Heath	1	29:37
Matthew Hilsdon	8	32:12
Ben Green	10	33:36
Saffron Latham	21	34:59

Worthy of note is that this is the third consecutive Handicap race that has been won by a Junior! Well done and keep up the great work!

Sunday, 10^th September

Lichfield 10K Race and 2K Fun Run

We had 2 Juniors running in these events, as follows:-

In the 10K, Ben Deakin finished in 99th place, out of 1023 finishers, in a time of 44:01. No formal results were recorded for the Fun Run but Ben is believed to have ran well finishing in the top 15. Well done to both Bens!

Sunday, 17^th September

St Thomas Fun Run

Matthew Hilsdon ran in this race, whilst his Dad ran in the 7 miler. No official times have been published, however Matthew said he had a good run, finishing in the top ten runners. Well done Matthew!

Wednesday, 20^th September

Castlefields 5K Time Trials

This was the fourth and last of the planned time trial events for the Juniors this summer, in which we had 14 running, along with the adult improvers group. As in previous time trials, they are intended to monitor the Junior’s progress, and chart how they do, over time, and offer support and coaching accordingly. These events place the Juniors in a good, strong position to start the cross country season, so well done to all that took part!

First Name	Surname	20-Apr-16	08-Jun-16	14-Sep-16	12-Apr-17	31-May-17	09-Aug-17	20-Sep-17
Harry	Beckett	29:41	32:09	–	27:54	28:25	29:55	30:37
Chloe	Burrows	25:12	26:59	19:24	–	–	29:34	27:31
Ben	Cook	21:10	21:35	15:50	20:20	–	–	18:46
Robbie	Gorman	19:19	20:03	14:14	18:37	–	–	19:48
Ben	Green	–	–	–	–	27:09	26:55	26:20
Jack	Heath	–	23:52	16:20	23:55	–	–	21:45
Matthew	Hilsdon	–	–	17:03	21:31	21:58	22:20	22:02
Saffron	Latham	–	–	–	–	–	–	26:51
Jake	Oliver	22:29	22:46	19:20	21:29	22:29	–	27:23
Amber	Page	–	–	19:20	–	–	–	29:02
Taygen	Pike	22:45	24:33	18:35	–	–	26:34	27:18
Jakob	Reece	–	–	–	–	–	–	25:37
Caitlin	Saunders				26:01	24:48	27:03	26:58
Nick	Walklett	–	–	15:22	–	–	–	22:31

Thanks to all that helped with this event.

Saturday, 23^rd September

Midland Counties Road Relays, Sutton Park

We had 6 juniors running in this event who found themselves amongst some high calibre athletes.

Under 13 Boys

Name	Leg	Position	Time
Jack Heath	A	31	16:34
Ben Green	B	35	19:39
Matthew Hilsdon	C	26	17:21

Total time 53:34, finishing position 25 out of 28.

Under 15 Boys

Name	Leg	Position	Time
Ben Deakin	A	36	15:19
Jake Oliver	B	35	15:42
Ben Cook	C	28	15:26

Total time 46:27, finishing position 28 out of 39.

Well done to all, in particular the Under 15 Boys for finishing in front of Cannock and Stafford!

Sunday, 24^th September

Stafford 10K Run

We had nine juniors running in this local race around Stafford as follows:-

Name	Position	Time
Matt Bonney	95	41:43
Robbie Gorman	100	41:54
Kian Arnott	190	44:23
Ben Deakin	202	45:24
Lizzie Jasper	641	52:51
Saffron Latham	881	56:06
Taygen Pike	973	57:25
Evie Whyte	1309	61:37
Chloe Burrows	1566	65:27

There were 2268 finishers.

For Robbie, Kian, Saffron and Taygen, this was their first 10K road race, so well done to them and to all that ran.

Saturday, 30^th September

1^st North Staffs Cross Country League – Winsford

Sixteen Juniors ran on a very muddy and damp course, as follows:-

Under 11 Girls

Name	Position	Time
Caitlin Saunders	33	8:18

Total number of finishers: 48

Under 11 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Will Gray	33	9:38
Ned Holland	48	10:55

Total number of finishers: 56

Under 13 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Matthew Hilsdon	37	15:55
Jack Heath	45	16:16
Ben Green	61	18:55

Total number of finishers: 61 U13 Boys Team finished in 10^th place.

Under 15 Girls

Name	Position	Time
Amber Page	DNF

Total number of finishers:

Under 15 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Jake Oliver	27	17:01
Robert Gray	36	19:56

Total number of finishers:

Under 17 Girls

Name	Position	Time
Taygen Pike	18	22:08
Saffron Latham	19	22:52
Chloe Burrows	20	23:58

Total number of finishers: 20 U17 Girls Team finished in 5^th place.

Under 17 Boys

Name	Position	Time
Matt Bonney	13	20:22
George Hodkinson	16	20:52
Robbie Gorman	26	22:38
Ben Deakin	28	23:29

Total number of finishers: 28 U17 Boys Team finished in 5^th place.

This was a slightly lower turnout by the Juniors than last year, however they still achieved some commendable times and positions. A big well done to all those who took part in this event, and a special thanks to Chris Skellern and Ian Hodkinson for their continued encouragement and support, and to Karen Hilsdon and Sarah Gray for helping with the token collection.

September 5K time Trial

20th Sept 2017

Continuing on from August’s Time Trial, this was the fourth and last of several planned time trial events for the Juniors over the summer months, in which we had 14 run on this occasion, and who also ran with the adult improvers group along the disused railway track. The event is intended to monitor the Junior’s progress, and chart how they do, over time, and offer support and coaching accordingly. Thank you to all that helped with this event.

First Name	Surname	J/S	12-Apr-17	31-May-17	09-Aug-17	20-Sep-17
Harry	Beckett	J	27:54	28:25	29:55	30:37
Isabelle	Beckett	J	27:16	28:56	30:44
Matthew	Black	J	–	–	26:01	–
Olivia	Black	J	–	–	29:27	–
Matt	Bonney	J	18:39	–	–	–
Chloe	Burrows	J	–	–	29:34	27:31
Ben	Cook	J	20:20	–	–	18:46
Ben	Deakin	J	20:46	21:41	21:05
Robbie	Gorman	J	18:37	–	–	19:48
Ben	Green	J	–	27:09	26:55	26:20
Jack	Heath	J	23:55	–	–	21:45
Matthew	Hilsdon	J	21:31	21:58	22:20	22:02
Ben	Jones	J	24:45	–	–	–
Saffron	Latham	J	–	–	–	26:51
Jake	Oliver	J	21:29	22:29	–	27:23
Amber	Page	J	–	–	–	29:02
Taygen	Pike	J	–	–	26:34	27:18
Jakob	Reece	J	–	–	–	25:37
Will	Sammons	J	19:47	–	20:24	–
Caitlin	Saunders	J	26:01	24:48	27:03	26:58
Nick	Walklett	J	–	–	–	22:31
Rose	White	J	26:46	–	–	–
Lucas	Wilson	J	–	21:46	–

Autumn Handicap

7th Sept 2017

The winners were:-

1 Jack Heath

2 Ian Heath

3 Beth Darke

Junior Section Report for August 2017

August is traditionally a quiet time for races, due to people’s holiday commitments, however we are aware of one race to report on.

9^th August 2017

Castlefields 5k Time Trials

Continuing on from May’s Time Trial, this was the third of several planned time trial events for the Juniors over the summer months, in which we had 11 run on this occasion, and who also ran with the adult improvers group along the disused railway track. The event is intended to monitor the Junior’s progress, and chart how they do, over time, and offer support and coaching accordingly.

First Name	Surname	20-Apr-16	08-Jun-16	14-Sep-16	12-Apr-17	31-May-17	09-Aug-17
Isabelle	Beckett	31:04	31:25	–	27:16	28:56	30:44
Harry	Beckett	29:41	32:09	–	27:54	28:25	29:55
Matthew	Black	23:39	23:20	16:18	–	–	26:01
Olivia	Black	27:40	28:54	20:48	–	–	29:27
Chloe	Burrows	25:12	26:59	19:24	–	–	29:34
Ben	Deakin	21:25	21:50	15:21	20:46	21:41	21:05
Ben	Green	–	–	–	–	27:09	26:55
Matthew	Hilsdon	–	–	17:03	21:31	21:58	22:20
Taygen	Pike	22:45	24:33	18:35	–	–	26:34
Will	Salmons	19:06	19:57	–	19:47	–	20:24
Caitlin	Saunders				26:01	24:48	27:03

Junior Attendance during Summer Holidays

Also worthy of note, is that during the six weeks school holiday, we have had on average 35 Juniors attend the Monday night session and between 10 and 15 on a Wednesday, which I believe shows their commitment and dedication, despite other distractions during the busy holiday period.

Castlefields 5K Time Trials

9th August 2017

Thank you to all that helped with this event.

First Name	Surname	J/S	20-Apr-16	08-Jun-16	14-Sep-16	12-Apr-17	31-May-17	09-Aug-17
Kian	Arnott	J	–	22:05	–	–	–	–
Harry	Beckett	J	29:41	32:09	–	27:54	28:25	29:55
Isabelle	Beckett	J	31:04	31:25	–	27:16	28:56	30:44
Matthew	Black	J	23:39	23:20	16:18	–	–	26:01
Olivia	Black	J	27:40	28:54	20:48	–	–	29:27
Matt	Bonney	J	19:48	20:09	–	18:39	–	–
Katie	Burrows	J	34:26	–	–	–	–	–
Chloe	Burrows	J	25:12	26:59	19:24	–	–	29:34
Ben	Cook	J	21:10	21:35	15:50	20:20	–	–
Ben	Deakin	J	21:25	21:50	15:21	20:46	21:41	21:05
Robbie	Gorman	J	19:19	20:03	14:14	18:37	–	–
Robert	Gray	J	–	23:34	–	–	–	–
Will	Gray	J	–	25:32	–	–	–	–
Ben	Green	J	–	–	–	–	27:09	26:55
Jack	Heath	J	–	23:52	16:20	23:55	–	–
Matthew	Hilsdon	J	–	–	17:03	21:31	21:58	22:20
Ben	Jones	J	22:11	22:04	16:10	24:45	–	–
Gabby	Lufton	J	–	–	–	–	–	–
Kieron	Mogey	J	24:17	24:25	16:16	–	–	–
Jake	Oliver	J	22:29	22:46	19:20	21:29	22:29	–
Amber	Page	J	–	–	19:20	–	–	–
Taygen	Pike	J	22:45	24:33	18:35	–	–	26:34
Will	Sammons	J	19:06	19:57	–	19:47	–	20:24
Caitlin	Saunders	J	–	–	–	26:01	24:48	27:03
Danny	Stevens	J	–	28:10	–	–	–	–
Nick	Walklett	J	–	–	15:22	–	–	–
Rose	White	J	–	–	–	26:46	–	–
Lucas	Wilson	J	–	–	–	–	21:46	–
Ellie	Withington	J	–	28:55	19:35	–	–	–

Junior Section Report for July 2017

Sunday, 2^nd July

Newmarket, Marcus Gynn

Following on from last year, Ben Deakin and his mum made the return trip to run in this race, as well as to see family, Ben coming in 52^nd place out of 244 runners, and in a time of 45:53. Great running Ben!

Thursday, 6^th July

Brocton, The Chase, Harriers Handicap race

We had three Juniors competing in this event, Matthew Hilsdon, Matt Bonney and Ben Cook, with Matthew winning the race, so a big well done to him! Worthy of note is that this is the second consecutive Handicap race where a Junior has won!!

Sunday, 9^th July

Cheadle, Cheadle 4

Ben Deakin ran in this race, finishing in 77^th place out of 236 runners, and in a time of 29:04. Well done to Ben!

Thursday, 13^th July

Rocester, JCB 2.3 mile Fun Run and 5 mile Lakeside Race

Seven Junior Harriers turned out to compete in the Fun Run, which like last year was in reverse direction, at the JCB World Headquarters in Rocester, on what was yet another pleasant summer’s evening. There were 59 Fun Runners in total.

Name	Position	Time
George Hodkinson	1	11:32
Jake Oliver	4	12:40
Matthew Hilsdon	5	13:09
Jack Heath	7	13:43
Murphy Hamilton	13	15:00
Will Gray	18	16:20
Keeley Hamilton	52	22:47

A massive well done to George Hodkinson for once again finishing in first place, and received a prize for his efforts.

In the 5 mile race, which like the Fun Run, was in reverse, with a lap around the lake, we had Evie Whyte and Ben Deakin running, this being Evie’s début JCB 5 mile race, and coming in 208^th place, in a time of 48:56, and Ben 38^th finishing in a time of 34:40. There were a total of 263 runners. Well done to all for competing in these events, which was once again, a magnificent display from all of the Junior Harriers.

Saturday, 15^th July

Rowley Park, Harriers Games

We had 39 Juniors (shown in red) competing against just 14 adults in these games, split in to eight groups, as follows.

2017	1 mile	PO	100M	PO	800 m	PO	200m	PO	400m	PO	3000M	PO	TOTAL	MEDAL
GROUP A
George Hodkinson					2.21	1	26.76	2			10:50	1	4	G
Jason Littlewood					2.25	2	26.25	1	61.00	1			4	S
Phil Hilsdon	5.18	1							62.00	2	11:01	2	5	B
Adam Lightfoot			13.58	1	2.38	4			68.00	4			9
Ben Deakin	5.46	4			2.33	3			67.00	3			10
Robert Motram Jones	5.40	2							70.00	6	11:26	3	11
Ian Hodkinson	5.41	3							69.00	5	13:39	4	12
Liam Duggen	5.57	6	14.26	2					68.00	4			12
Jim Smith					2.43	6	31.57	3	71.00	7			16
Ian Heath	5.51	5			2.39	5			75.00	8			18

GROUP B
Ben Cook	5.49	1			2.35	1			65.00	1			3	G
Jake Oliver	5.59	2			2.37	2	30.72	1					5	S
Robert Gray	6.25	3			2.50	3			75.00	3			9	B
Jakob Reece	6.26	4			2.58	4			77.00	4			12
Ollie Patrick	6.40	6			3.26	6			73.00	2			14
Anthony Nicholls	6.33	5			2.59	5			79.00	5			15

GROUP C
Lucas Willson	6.10	1					31.70	2	76.00	2			5	G
Ben Bromley			14.64	2	3.03	3	31.32	1					6	B
Matthew Hilsdon	6.13	2			2.53	1	34.64	3					6	S
Jack Heath	6.15	3			2.55	2			82.00	4			9
James Black			14.00	1	3.21	5	36.19	4					10
Matthew Black	6.36	5	15.02	3					81.00	3			11
Mark Oliver	6.46	6			3.21	5			73.00	1			12
Alfie Darby	6.33	4			3.14	4			89.00	5			13

GROUP D

Jack Moran	6.54	1	16.35	2			35.57	1					4	G
Dylan Shrehorn	7.11	2	15.70	1					89.00	1			4	S
Harley Farrant	7.50	4			3.20	1	40.46	2					7	B
Ben Green	7.23	3	17.66	3	4.35	4							10
Evan Saddler			19.02	4	3.37	2	44.56	4					10
Steve Farrant	8.05	5			3.43	3	44.26	3					11


GROUP E
Chloe Burrows			14.60	1	3.17	3	33.44	2					6	G
Nia Nokes			15.91	5	3.01	2					13:29	1	8	S
Lisa Fraser	6.46	1	17.07	6					80.00	1			8	B
Amber Paqe			14.85	2	4.03	5	32.08	1					8
Lizzie Jasper			15.66	4	2.54	1	38.08	4					9
Olivia Black			15.32	3	3.25	4	34.33	3					10
Mel Deakin								50	96.00	2	14:19	2	54

GROUP F
Reuben Willson			16.75	2	3.04	2	36.59	1					5	G
Caitlin Saunders	7.06	2			3.11	3			84.00	1			6	S
Rose White					2.58	1	39.95	2	97.00	3			6	S
Isla Fraser	6.59	1	16.89	3					86.00	3			7
Katie Burrows			16.64	1	4.44	5	43.96	4					10
Chloe Heathcote	7.20	3			3.30	4	43.01	3					10

GROUP G
Charlie Darby			18.69	2	3.40	1	42.25	1					4	S
Victoria Shrehorn	8.18	2	17.38	1					98.00	1			4	G
Harrison Darby	8.05	1			3.57	6			107.00	2			9	B
Jenny Farrant	8.28	3			3.46	4	46.97	2					9
Jess Neaves			19.95	4	3.41	2	48.56	3					9
Jessica Farrant	8.47	4			3.44	3	50.77	5					12
Willow Heath			19.65	3	3.56	5	50.31	4					12


GROUP H
Summer Saddler			20.28	1	3.55	1	44.93	2					4	G
Angelica Mchugh			21.32	2	4.44	2	53.19	3					7	S
Tallulah Mchugh							43.51	1	125.00	1		50	52	B

As expected, the Juniors monopolised the medal allocation so a massive well done to them and of course, all those who took part in the Games. All thoroughly enjoyed themselves, especially those who managed to beat the adults, and the after games party back at the Cricket Club! Thanks to all who organised and were involved with this event.

Saturday/Sunday, 22/23 July

Catton Park, Conti Thunder Run

Chloe Burrows ran in place of her mum in an early leg during this 24 hour endurance event, which later proved to be a very wet and muddy technical course, due to the relentless rainfall. This was a big step for Chloe running against some elite athletes and on a challenging course, but she managed to complete her lap with a smile on her face. Well done Chloe!

Tuesday, 25^th July

Queen’s Park, Crewe, South Cheshire 5K Series

Ben Deakin ran in this race, finishing in a time of 20:49 and in 49^th place, out of 161 runners. This was quite an improvement from last year when he finished in a time of 22:38. He also won the spot prize of an embroidered South Cheshire Harriers towel. Congratulations Ben!

Wednesday, 26^th July

Marquis Drive, Cannock Chase, Staffordshire Knot 2 mile Fun Run and 5 mile Race

We had 24 enthusiastic Juniors running in the Fun Run. George Hodkinson comfortably won the race, with Ben Cook being the next Junior Harrier to finish in 2^nd place. Similar to last year out of the first ten finishers, six were Junior Harriers, which is an excellent result.

This is likely to be George’s last Fun Run given he will be turning 15 soon, and it was great to see him putting in a fantastic performance. Well done George!

Name	Position	Time
George Hodkinson	1	11:07
Ben Cook	2	12:08
Jack Heath	5	13:19
Ben Bromley	6	14:00
Matthew Hilsdon	8	14:12
Murphy Hamilton	9	14:13
Jakob Reece	14	14:42
Robert Gray	15	14:51
William Gray	16	14:53
Alfie Darby	19	15:37
Caitlin Saunders	21	16:00
Rose White	23	16:14
Harry Beckett	25	16:26
Harley Farrant	30	17:05
Iasabelle Beckett	31	17:17
Charlie Darby	38	18:00
Jenny Farrant	43	18:35
Edie White	44	18:38
Harrison Darby	48	19:36
Jessica Farrant	49	20:02
Keeley Hamilton	62	21:44
Katie Burrows	63	23:30
Angelica McHugh	72	25:37
Tallullah McHugh	76	29:01

There were 82 finishers.

In the 5 mile race, which took on a brand new course this year, we had three Juniors running, Matt Bonney, Ben Deakin and Saffron Lathan as follows.

Name	Position	Time
Matt Bonney	31	32:53
Ben Deakin	60	34:49
Saffron Lathan	236	44:41

Allowing for the new course, both Matt’s and Ben’s times still show significant improvement over last year’s race, so well done to both!

There were 352 finishers in total. A massive well done to all those who took part in the two races.

Junior Section Report for June 2017

Friday, 10^th June

Neon Night Fun Run, Stafford Common

Sophia and Reece Bridgwood ran in this night time event with their mum, Nicola. Well done all.

Wednesday, 14^th June

Showground 2 Mile Relays

We had nine teams running in this event which was held at a brand new venue, organised by the Harriers. Once again this was a fantastic turn out for the Juniors who produced some very good times, and of course, enjoyed competing against and beating many of the seniors.

Harriers Fast & Furious (Matt Bonney, George Hodkinson, Kian Arnott & Ben Deakin) came sixth, which was a great effort, and the Harriers Awesome Foursome came in 8^th place (Sam Holland, Ben Cook, Jake Oliver & Ewan Wade), both teams in the Boys Team 64 years age group.

In addition to these 36 runners, we also had some additional Juniors running as part of family teams; Olivia, James & Matthew Black, Harley and Jenny Farrant, Isabelle and Harry Beckett & Ellie Withington.

As always, it was a magnificent display from all of the Junior Harriers, who appeared to thoroughly enjoy themselves. Well done to everyone who took part.

Wednesday & Friday 21/23 June

Inter-school Relays, Rowley Park & Keele

We are aware of a small number of Juniors who competed in some track events representing their schools. Some even attended the Harriers Advanced Junior session afterwards on the Wednesday! Well done all.

Sunday, 25^th June

Stone St Michael’s Junior Relays

We had 25 Juniors running as five teams in this local event, the teams comprised of five people, each running a distance of 2K alongside those athletes running in the main 10k race, which was a two lap course, and as always, the Juniors provided some very competitive performances. This year it was good to see other local Junior teams competing alongside the Harriers. Team 1 were the first to finish, in a time of 38:25 Well done all! The five teams were:-

Team 1:- (38:25)

Name	Leg
Jake Oliver	1
George Hodkinson	2
Ben Jones	3
Ben Cook	4
James Black	5

Finishing Position: 1^st

Team 2:- (50:32)

Name	Leg
Mia Davies-Fuller	1
Rose White	2
Chloe Burrows	3
Emila Holland	4
Olivia Black	5

Finishing Position: 4^th

Team 3:- (57:09)

Name	Leg
Jack Moran	1
George Holland	2
Victoria Shrehorn	3
Edie White	4
Harrison Darby	5

Finishing Position: 9^th

Team 4:- (44:36)

Name	Leg
Matthew Black	1
Murphy Hamilton	2
Alfie Darby	3
Jack Heath	4
Matthew Hilsdon	5

Finishing Position: 2^th

Team 5:- (55:02)

Name	Leg
Dillon Shrehorn	1
Keeley Hamilton	2
Charlie Darby	3
Ned Holland	4
Willow Heath	5

Finishing Position: 8^th

The other local school teams that took part were:-

School	Posn
Walton	3^rd
Seabridge (N/C)	5^th
Walton	6^th
St Michaels	7^th

Congratulations to all those who ran in this event, for putting in a fantastic effort and achieving some great results! The Junior Coaches would like to thank all of the adults who helped out with the organisation and transport of the Juniors to their various Changeover points.

In the main 10K event Ben Deakin ran, finishing in 156^th place, in a time of 46:15. There were 523 finishers. Well done Ben!

Penkridge 2 Mile Fun Run

Also on the same day there were two Juniors running in this event, as follows;-

Name	Position	Time
Isabelle Beckett	98	21:51
Harry Beckett	108	22:14

There were 647 finishers in this race. Well done Isabelle and Harry!

Junior Section Report for May 2017

Sunday, 7^th May

Market Drayton 1.3 mile Fun Run

Prior to the 10K road race, we had just one Junior Harrier running in the Fun Run, as follows.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Aged 11 – 12, 1.3 miles
Will Gray	Not known	None published

In the 10K road race, of which there were 2187 that finished, we had three Juniors running, Taygen Pike, Chloe Burrows and Ben Deakin and was Taygen’s first 10k road race. Times as follows:-

Name	Position	Time
Category	Aged 15+ 10K Road Race
Ben Deakin	222	45:05
Taygen Pike	1059	57:19
Chloe Burrows	1444	1:02:58

Well done to Ben, Taygen and Chloe.

Sunday, 21^st May

2Fast2 Flat 10K

Ben Deakin was the only Junior to compete in this race, finishing in a time of 48:05 and 23^rd position. There were 76 finishers. Very well done Ben!

Wednesday, 24^th May

Schools Athletics Championships, Rowley Park

We had eight Juniors representing their schools in a variety of events from 100m up to 1500m, and included George Hodkinson, Robbie Gorman, Kian Arnott, Jake Oliver, Jacob Callaghan, Taygen Pike, Chloe Burrows and Ben Deakin. Well done to all that competed in these events.

Wednesday, 31^st May

Castlefields Carpark, 5k Time Trials

This was the second time trial this season, intended to track and monitor the Junior’s performance over a fixed distance. We had eight running this time, as follows.

First Name	Surname	09-Sep-15	20-Apr-16	08-Jun-16	14-Sep-16	12-Apr-17	31-May-17
Ben	Deakin	24.10	21:25	21:50	15:21	20:46	21:41
Lucas	Wilson	–	–	–	–	–	21:46
Matthew	Hilsdon	–	–	–	17:03	21:31	21:58
Jake	Oliver	23.45	22:29	22:46	19:20	21:29	22:29
Caitlin	Saunders	–	–	–	–	26:01	24:48
Ben	Green	–	–	–	–	–	27:09
Harry	Beckett	–	29:41	32:09	–	27:54	28:25
Isabelle	Beckett	–	31:04	31:25	–	27:16	28:56

Well done to all those who ran in this event.

Castlefields 5K Time Trial

31 May 2017

Continuing on from April’s Time Trial, this was the second of several planned time trial events for the Juniors over the summer months, in which we had 8 run on this occasion, and who also ran with the adult improvers group along the disused railway track. The event is intended to monitor the Junior’s progress, and chart how they do, over time, and offer support and coaching accordingly. Thank you to all that helped with this event

First Name	Surname	20-Apr-16	08-Jun-16	14-Sep-16	12-Apr-17	31-May-17
Will	Salmons	19:06	19:57	–	19:47	–
Robbie	Gorman	19:19	20:03	14:14	18:37	–
Matt	Bonney	19:48	20:09	–	18:39	–
Ben	Cook	21:10	21:35	15:50	20:20	–
Ben	Deakin	21:25	21:50	15:21	20:46	21:41
Ben	Jones	22:11	22:04	16:10	24:45	–
Kian	Arnott	–	22:05	–	–	–
Jake	Oliver	22:29	22:46	19:20	21:29	22:29
Matthew	Black	23:39	23:20	16:18	–	–
Robert	Gray	–	23:34	–	–	–
Jack	Heath	–	23:52	16:20	23:55	–
Kieron	Mogey	24:17	24:25	16:16	–	–
Taygen	Pike	22:45	24:33	18:35	–	–
Will	Gray	–	25:32	–	–	–
Chloe	Burrows	25:12	26:59	19:24	–	–
Danny	Stevens	–	28:10	–	–	–
Olivia	Black	27:40	28:54	20:48	–	–
Ellie	Withington	–	28:55	19:35	–	–
Isabelle	Beckett	31:04	31:25	–	27:16	28:56
Harry	Beckett	29:41	32:09	–	27:54	28:25
Amber	Page	–	–	19:20	–	–
Katie	Burrows	34:26	–	–	–	–
Nick	Walklett	–	–	15:22	–	–
Matthew	Hilsdon	–	–	17:03	21:31	21:58
Caitlin	Saunders				26:01	24:48
Rose	White				26:46	–
Lucas	Wilson	–	–	–	–	21:46
Ben	Green	–	–	–	–	27:09

Stafford Harriers Junior “Race Calendar 2017”

This is to remind you of some local races coming this year that we would encourage you all to take part in & have a go!!! Put your training into practice and see how good you really are “OR” how much more work you need to put in to get to the front. At the end of the day we all train for something!

LATEST NEWS !!!!

5k Time Trial, “Wednesday 31st May” @ Castlefields Car Park

The next 5k time trial has been set for Wednesday31st May. Meet is 6pm @ Castlefields car park, for 6.15pm start. This is open to Wednesday night Juniors & Adults who run a 5k time trial along the disused railway. Each time you run your performance will be logged and then we can chart each individual’s progress. Juniors (& coaches) will then be able see their development as a result of their hard training. If you’re not a Wednesday night Junior but want to have a go – please check with your coaches first! Don’t forget your safety pins!

** SPECIAL NOTE **

New “Showground Relays”, 14^th June (4 x 2miles)

All JUNIORS wanting to run must notify Chris ASAP if you want to be in a team & by no later than Weds 31^st May together with Payment of £5 each. All Junior teams will be decided between the coaches. Please note – each team member must be able to run 2 miles, if unsure please discuss with the coaches if you want to run.

FORTHCOMING RACES (for entry details of any races please go to www.staffordharriers.org/race-calendar-2017)

31st May – Weds 5K Time Trial, Meet @6pm for 6.15pm start @Castlefields car park

14^th June – Showground Relays, Meet @6.30pm for 7.30pm start @ Staffs County Showground

17^th June – Ironkids @Shugborough, Junior fun runs, various age groups, apply online

25^th June – Stone St.Michaels Relays (10k in teams of 5, approx. 2k each)

Please let us know if you wish to help defend our title !!

6^th July – Harriers Handicap, (approx. 4m off road) @Chase Vista car park

13^th July – JCB5 & 2m Fun Run, 7pm @ JCB Rocester, Online entry

15^th July – Harriers Annual Games Saturday afternoon family fun 2pm @ Rowley Park Track, followed by awards & buffet @Riverway Cricket Club from 6pm

26^th July – Staffs Knot 5 miler plus Fun run (2mile,ish) @ Marquis Drive, Cannock Chase visitor centre, hosted by Stafford Harriers (see website for online entry)

PARK RUN;

Don’t forget – The Chase 5k Park Run takes place every Saturday 9pm @Marquis Drive

This is a great element to add to your weekly training and helps to measure your improvement.

Junior Section Report for April 2017

Sunday, 2^nd April

Lilleshall 10K

We had only Ben Deakin running in this event, who completed the race in a time of 48:42 finishing in 55^th position. There were 284 finishers. Well done Ben!

Thursday, 6^th April

Harriers Handicap

Three Juniors ran in this race, Jack Heath, Ben Cook and Matthew Hilsdon, with Jack actually winning the race coming first, and Matthew third place. A massive well done to Jack and Matthew and great to see two Juniors finishing in the top three places!

Sunday, 9^th April

Newcastle 10K

Ben Deakin was once again the only Junior running in this event, which was on a fine and sunny morning. Ben completed the race in a commendable time of 46:47 and finishing in 107^th position. There were 451 finishers. Well done Ben!

Wednesday, 12^th April

Castlefields Carpark, 5k Time Trials

Continuing on from previous years, this was the first of several planned time trial events for the Juniors over the summer months, in which we had 13 run on this occasion, and who also ran with the adult improvers group along the disused railway track. The event is intended to monitor the Junior’s progress, and chart how they do, over time, and offer support and coaching accordingly.

First Name	Surname	Time
Will	Salmons	19:47
Robbie	Gorman	18:37
Matt	Bonney	18:39
Ben	Cook	20:20
Ben	Deakin	20:46
Ben	Jones	24:45
Jake	Oliver	21:29
Jack	Heath	23:55
Isabelle	Beckett	27:16
Harry	Beckett	27:54
Matthew	Hilsdon	21:31
Caitlin	Saunders	26:01
Rose	White	26:46

It is worth mentioning that seven of the Juniors who had run the course last year, achieved PB’s this time, which clearly demonstrates an improvement in their performance. Well done to all who ran!

Sunday, 16^th April

Chasewater Easter Egg 5K/10K

There were five Juniors running in these events, as follows:-

5K Race

Name	Position	Time
Matt Bonney	2	18:44
Harry Beckett	29	27:20
Isabelle Beckett	34	27:41
Ben Green	41	28:10

10K Race

Name	Position	Time
Evie Whyte	186	58:55

A big well done to all that ran in these events.

Sunday, 30^th April

Uttoxeter Festival of Running

2K Fun Run

Name	Position	Time
Murphy Hamilton	9	8:59
Ben Green	20	9:51
Harley Farrant	28	10:58
Jessica Farrant	33	11:23
Jenny Farrant	37	11:43
Keeley Hamilton	46	13:00

Murphy came first in his age category and was awarded a trophy, so a big well done to him and to all those who ran in this event. There were 81 finishers.

Park Runs

As in previous months a good number of Juniors have been competing in the Cannock Chase Park run each Saturday morning, so well done all, and keep up the great work!

Harriers 5K Time Trial

12th April 17

Well done to all that ran in the Castlefields 5K Time Trials, held on Wednesday evening, and thanks to all who helped out. The next one will be in June and then September, so you can track your time over the three to see how you are doing.

NB 14/09/16 course was 3.64K due to railway track being closed

First Name	Surname	20-Apr-16	08-Jun-16	14-Sep-16	12-Apr-17
Will	Salmons	19:06	19:57	–	19:47
Robbie	Gorman	19:19	20:03	14:14	18:37
Matt	Bonney	19:48	20:09	–	18:39
Ben	Cook	21:10	21:35	15:50	20:20
Ben	Deakin	21:25	21:50	15:21	20:46
Ben	Jones	22:11	22:04	16:10	24:45
Kian	Arnott	–	22:05	–	–
Jake	Oliver	22:29	22:46	19:20	21:29
Matthew	Black	23:39	23:20	16:18	–
Robert	Gray	–	23:34	–	–
Jack	Heath	–	23:52	16:20	23:55
Kieron	Mogey	24:17	24:25	16:16	–
Taygen	Pike	22:45	24:33	18:35	–
Will	Gray	–	25:32	–	–
Chloe	Burrows	25:12	26:59	19:24	–
Danny	Stevens	–	28:10	–	–
Olivia	Black	27:40	28:54	20:48	–
Ellie	Withington	–	28:55	19:35	–
Isabelle	Beckett	31:04	31:25	–	27:16
Harry	Beckett	29:41	32:09	–	27:54
Amber	Page	–	–	19:20	–
Katie	Burrows	34:26	–	–	–
Nick	Walklett	–	–	15:22	–
Matthew	Hilsdon	–	–	17:03	21:31
Caitlin	Saunders				26:01
Rose	White				26:46

Spring Handicap

6th April 2017

Great weather — cool and fine, under foot dry and dry !.

Full results will be on the race report page. But the winners were:-

1st Jack Heath
2nd Ryan Nikes
3rd Matthew Hilsdon

Junior Section Report for March 2017

Fradley 10K

Sunday, 12^th March

We had three Junior Harriers compete in this race, Lizzie Jasper, Evie Whyte and Ben Deakin but unfortunately Evie had to pull out of the race due to injury.

Name	Position	Time
Ben Deakin	143	45:31
Lizzie Jasper	243	49:46

There were 882 finishers. A big well done to all!

Stafford Half Marathon Fun Run

Sunday, 19^th March

We had a number of juniors running on home soil, soaking up the race atmosphere, including Matthew Hilsdon, Will & Robert Gray, Alfie, Charlie and Harrison Darby, Willow & Jack Heath, Rose& Edie White, Ben Green and Eliana Hall. Apologies if I have missed anyone out. All that took part had a thoroughly good time, each receiving a medal at the end. Robert came in third place. Well done to all that ran in this event.

Staffordshire Athletics Network 4 x 1 mile Relays, Rowley Park

Saturday, 25^th March

We had 43 Juniors running in this event, on what was a lovely sunny spring day, with some great effort put in and which turned out to be enjoyable for all those who took part on their home ground. A very big well done to all who ran at this event, and thanks to the coaches and parents that supported, and to the Staffordshire Athletics Network for organising it.

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 11 Boys	3rd Placed Team
Jack Heath	1	7:05
Matthew Black	2	7:46
Ben Bromley	3	8:05
Lucas Willson	4	7:25

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 11 Boys
Jakob Reece	1	7:22
Reuban Willson	2	8:20
Will Gray	3	7:55
Harry Beckett	4	7:59

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 11 Boys
Murphy Hamilton	1	7:33
Ben Green	2	8:37
Seb Fraser	3	9:49
Evan Sadler	4	9:34

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 11 Boys
Ned Holland	1	9:44
Charlie Darby	2	9:57
Oliver McIntyre	3	9:19
Harrison Darby	4	10:20

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 11 Girls
May Davies-Fuller	1	8:12
Isla Fraser	2	8:02
Caitlin Saunders	3	8:08
Rose White	4	8:39

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 11 Girls
Isabelle Beckett	1	8:28
Willow Heath	2	9:13
Ruby Smith	3	8:51
Edie White	4	10:04

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 11 Mixed
Amber Willis	1	11:08
Harley Farrant	2	8:34
Jessica Farrant	3	9:22
Jenny Farrant	4	10:20

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 15 Mixed
Ben Cook	1	6:14
Emilia Holland	2	8:51
Ben Jones	3	6:46
Taygen Pike	4	7:43

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 13 Boys
Alfie Darby	1	7:17
James Black	2	8:45
Matthew Hilsdon	3	7:21
Robert Gray	4	7:07

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 17 Girls	2nd Placed Team
Chloe Burrows	1	8:25
Ellie Withington	2	8:55
Olivia Black	3	8:31
Lizzie Jasper	4	7:44

Name	Leg	Time
Category	Under 17 Boys	2nd Placed Team
Matt Bonney	1	6:01
George Hodkinson	2	5:54
Robbie Gorman	3	6:13
Matt Bonney	4	6:36

A big well done to the Under 17 Boys and Girls for coming second place in their age group, and to the Under 11 Boys for coming third place. All were presented with certificates.

Primary Schools District Cross Country Championships

We’ve had a few Juniors representing their various schools, at the Stone and Stafford Schools Partnership Cross Country events (4 races held at Birches Valley, Marquis Drive, Shugborough and Stone Common). Of those we know about were Rose White, Caitlin Saunders, Isla Fraser, Jack Heath, Matthew Black, Ethan Eisenhaun, Isabelle and Harry Beckett.

Park Runs

As always the Cannock Chase Park Run has been proving popular this month with the Juniors, some achieving PB’s – well done to all!

Staffordshire Athletics Network ‘Junior 4×1 mile Relays’

Saturday 25^th March 2017

No results yet but some photos.

The National Cross Country Championships at Wollaton Park Nottingham

25th February 2017

Report by Ben Deakin

I was looking forward to going to this event – it was the Nationals! I went to the Nationals last year at Donnington and that was good but really hilly so I was expecting a difficult course again this year.

As we got there we saw a big hill and I thought oh no, we may have to run up it! We got off the bus, we walked into the park and there was a sea of club tents everywhere. Our coaches sorted out our numbers and we got ready. I didn’t have much time to get nervous or think too much because my age group was one of the first to go. I heard some people talking about running through a river but I wasn’t sure what it was going to be like and wondered if they were exaggerating.

At the start we were in pens and before we knew it we had the three minute warning, then we moved onto the line, then the starting gun went off. I was with three other boys from my club as we made up a team, but as soon as we started running I lost sight of them as there were so many other people running. We ran up a hill to start, which was wasn’t too difficult, then downhill then a flat section. It wasn’t that muddy and I thought this isn’t going to be too hard. And then, all of a sudden, as we went around a corner I saw a dip which was very muddy and wet. It wasn’t really a river, more like running through a ford but my feet and legs were covered in mud and got wet. Later in the course there was another hill that was steep but short, and also another bit which was very boggy! Soon after that I could see the final straight to the finish. It had been a hard run but I was glad I did it. All four of my team got around so we got a team result.

The good thing about being one of the first to go is after I could relax and enjoy watching everyone else. The bad thing for some of my team mates was they forgot to bring any spare socks so had wet feet for the rest of the day. Overall I had a really good day, I was really pleased with how I had run, and had a good day out with Stafford Harriers.

Junior Report for February 2017

Sunday, 12^th February

Walton Wobble 10K, Walton, Stafford

Matt Bonney was the only Junior to run in this inaugural race, finishing in an excellent time of 42:53, coming in a very commendable 16^th place, and first in his age category. Well done Matt!

Saturday, 25^th February

English National Cross Country Championships, Wollaton Park, Nottingham

We had seven Juniors running in this prestigious event, who were competing against some of the top young athletes in the country. The course which was quite hilly and muddy in places, was set in the grounds of Wollaton Park, with the hall standing proud in the background.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 13 Boys – 458 finishers
Robert Grey	443	17:29
Matthew Hilsdon	444	17:29

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 15 Boys – 379 finishers
Robbie Gorman	224	17:32
Ben Cook	328	19:06
Ben Deakin	345	19:29
Kian Arnott	352	19:48

The Under 15 Boys team finished in 36^th place – well done!

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 15 Girls – 426 finishers
Taygen Pike	418	24:45

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 17 Men – 300 finishers
Matt Bonney	250	25:31

All of the Juniors did really well, having learnt a lot from the experience, and most importantly, they enjoyed the event. A very big well done to all those who ran in this event.

Park Runs

As per the norm we’ve had a number of Juniors taking part in these events at various locations during the month – keep up the good work!

Junior Section Report for January 2017

Sunday, 1^st January

Vernon’s New Year’s Day Bare Wrist 5 miler

We had four juniors turn out to run in rather wet and cold conditions, along the disused railway track (which is now wider and offers an improved surface for running), on New Year’s Day, all of which put in a great performance.

Name	Position	Pre Time	Act Time	Diff
Category	N/A
Chloe Burrows	39	46:00	47:06	01:06
Jake Oliver	47	38:52	37:36	-01:16
Matt Bonney	62	37:30	35:22	-02:08
Ben Deakin	71	37:01	39:49	02:48

Well done all!

Saturday, 7^th January

Staffordshire County Cross Country Championships, Aldersley Stadium, Wolverhampton

Ten juniors turned out to participate against some quite stiff competition.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 13 Boys
Robert Grey	30	13:09

There were 33 runners in total.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 15 Girls
Lizzie Jasper	24	19:41
Taygen Pike	25	20:14
Evie Whyte	26	21:53

There were 26 runners in total, team finishing in 4^th place.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 15 Boys
Ben Deakin	22	16:27
Jake Oliver	23	16:35
Ben Jones	24	16:36
Ben Cook	25	16:43

There were 26 runners in total, team finishing in 4^th place.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 17 Women
Chloe Burrows	23	34:11

There were 23 runners in total.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 17 Men
Matt Bonney	14	23:02

There were 18 runners in total.

Sunday, 22^nd January

Open to the Elements 5K, Gnosall

Ben Deakin finished in 6^th place in this inaugural race, in a time of 22:17, beating both his Mum and Dad – well done Ben!

Saturday, 28^th January

Midlands Counties Cross Country Championships, Prestwold Hall, Loughborough

We had nine juniors running in this event, the course of which was laid out in the beautiful parkland area, passing the imposing old hall. Everyone seemed to enjoy the experience, and ran very well in their races, in what was a very challenging field of some of the Midland’s best athletes.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 13 Boys, 3k
Robert Grey	81	15:55

There were 91 finishers in total.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 15 Girls, 4k
Taygen Pike	91	20:19

There were 96 finishers in total.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 15 Boys, 4k
George Hodkinson	35	14:36
Robbie Gorman	69	15:46
Kian Arnott	81	16:38
Ben Deakin	82	16:41
Jake Oliver	85	17:12
Ben Cook	86	17:18

There were 89 finishers in total.

Name	Position	Time
Category	Under 17 Boys, 6k
Matt Bonney	59	22:54

There were 65 finishers in total.

A massive well done to all who took part in this event.

Park Runs

As per previous months, a number of Juniors have been participating in these events, which are a great way over time, to help improve people’s performance over the same distance, on a weekly basis. Keep up the good work!