(TLDR. The Headlines: On Tuesday, we have our second pub run, this time from the Bay Horse in Kirk Deighton. There won’t be an organised club run on Tuesday from the Hockey Club. On Thursday, we have a club run to Harlow Carr through Valley Gardens, finishing with a farewell get together for Ewa Scott back at the club. Read on for other info on up and coming events, parkrun takeovers, and Sylvia’s August Relays. We finish by considering the ethics of repeating wise words from the potentially concussed…)
I’ve got to dash out, so let’s not muck about and let’s instead dive straight into the results from the past week. There’s been a lot going on, so I can only hope that you are sitting comfortably. Let’s go.
Results from the Week That Was…
We start this week with the results from the Juniors, who took part in the Golden Acre Park Relays while we were all up enjoying Cath and Andy’s run in Nidderdale. In the junior run, the mixed team (Jessica, Edward and Owen have chosen not to give me their surnames) finished in a brilliant 30.36, while the girls team (Freya Dart, Chloe Beaumont and Ava Anwyl) completed the course in an incredible 32.06. In the senior run, Imogen Constable, Jess Beaumont and Eleanor Easton brought home the athletic bacon in 1:07.06. Very well done to you all!
On Thursday, the curtain came down on the Evening League season with the handicap race at Ripon. The results will seem a bit skew-whiff, as they are in the order that people crossed the line rather than their actual finish times. Kev Nicholas (34.58) was the first to finish, while Sarah Bracher (51.44) was the first qualifying runner to finish the course and so won the Norman Smith Handicap Trophy! Brilliant effort, Sarah! #winnerwinnerchickendinner. Nick Smith (43.42) took third place overall and so got himself another trophy, and we were also able to celebrate great results from Steve Newton (42.33), Brian Hainsworth (33.53), Katie Coppack (43.42), Jose Jimenez (41.16) and Luke Scorer (31.29). Paul Manning (42.03) had his work cut out to keep Christine Holleran (40.40) at bay, whereas Steve Newbould (31.25) cut through the crowds for a cracking sprint finish. Steve was soon joined by Alister King (39.26), Rachael Prince (44.57), Andrew Iddon (34.57), Jeremy Scott (40.00), Richard Evans (37.33) and Mike Deacon (42.08). Laura Francis finished in 35.42, Ian Wighton in 41.42, Sam Fugill in 37.58, and Chandra Shekar in 38.59. Michael Shaw (44.52) was running brilliantly, as were the ever-wonderful Alex Crowton (34.08), Dave Seaman (47.40), Fiona Deacon (38.12), Sarah Staiano (39.17), Ian Hesford (32.55), Sam Heathcote (35.27), Karen Mills (42.30), Craig Mills (29.43) and Graham Hyde (53.45). It was as lovely as you’d expect to see Andrew Gilbertson (37.21) out, especially in the company of JonEaston (36.55), Andy Todd (32.29), Guy Parker (47.31), Jonathan Kay (44.00), Jenny Manning (45.05) and Ian Doughty (36.36).
Theresa Oldroyd (36.38) not only got a cracking time, but won the FV50 trophy for the league too, and it’s always nice to have a bit more bling in the trophy cabinet here at Nidd Valley House. Jemma Escreeet (47.38) found herself chased to the line by Moira McTague (47.38), Martin Lofthouse (34.12), Sylvia Morten (57.58), Kirsty Walter (38.35), John Mallet (40.26), whereas I’m sure that Fell Running Phil (45.41) enjoyed the off-road muddy course. Susy Rhodes (53.45), Philly Thompson (43.16) didn’t have to wait long until they were joined by Kev Clark (33.48), while our trio finishers were none other than Rogers Duckworth (46.55), Sarah Gore (54.21) and Emily Wighton (51.04). Well done to all finishers.
You’ll have noticed that Sue Ball didn’t make it to the finish line in quite the style she might have hoped for, having taken a tumble in the valley. Thanks to Rob Northfield who waited with her while the first aid got to her, and also walked with her back to the finish, and to all the Nidds who showed her an abundance of care and concern. It’s at times like this – rather than the final results table – that show what kind of club Nidd Valley really is. Nidd Valley is indeed a mighty club, and Nidders are mighty people. Other than some steristrips and a dent to her pride, Sue was otherwise unharmed, and able to deliver a cracking word to the wise. You can read all about it below.
It seems like the Hampsthwaite Feast 5k was a bit of a Nidd fest yesterday, with 27 of the 57 finishers donning the black and gold colours. Josh Bryer (20.03) was first home for the team in his first run as a senior, denying Fingers Harris (20.06) the top spot in a nail biting finish. Martin Lofthouse finished in 20.51, and was soon joined by Nick Andralojc (22.30), while Laura Francis (22.46) was the first senior lady to finish. Now here’s a thing. We haven’t seen Simon Cocker for what seems like ages, and then he comes out and gives us a time as impressive as 22.54. Jeremy Scott (24.09), an injured Captain Dazzler (24.12), Chris Morris (24.17), Nigel Scaife (24.56) and Phil Carman (25.01) were the next to finish, soon joined by Guy Parker (25.20), Ian Wighton (25.23), Emma Kicks (27.02), and Nick Smith (27.19). Dianne Winnard finished in 27.51, Moira McTague in 29.03 and Dave Seaman in 29.15. Rachel Capstick (31.07) was hunting Marcos Montana (30.53) at every turn, while Jillie Townend (31.31) marked her return to the Nidd Valley fold with an incredible time. Still jubilant from her success on Thursday night, Sarah Bracher (31.44) ran a brilliant race as she led Jill Hornsby (32.09), Graham Hyde (32.39) and Chris Rogers (37.01) to the line. With son Ted, Bec Carman (52.36) concluded proceedings for the squad, so a very well done to you all.
Yesterday, Connor Featherstone was down in Henley on Thames to take part in the Ultra X Goes Loopy run. Basically, like Endure24, this is the chance to run round in circles and see how far you can get within 12 hours. Connor completed 13 laps, clocking up 37 miles, although would like you to know that he is broken and can’t possibly run any more. Sounds like he had a lovely time.
I can see that Theresa Oldroyd joined Nick Andralojc to take part in the Chapelfell Top Fell Race this afternoon in Durham. Results aren’t out yet and, this being fell running, it’s unlikely we’ll see them any time soon. Facebook tells me that Nick had a cracking run though, as did Theresa who, despite a fall, still managed to clinch the third FV50 prize. Well done to you both!
This is turning into a weekly slot is this, but Brian Hainsworth was back in the Lake District again. This weekend it was the turn of the Old Crown Fell Race. Taking in 12 Lakeland peaks, including some big hitters like Skiddaw and Blencathra, this 24 mile fell race over 7,000ft of climb is a real challenge for even seasoned fell runners. Still, our Bri rose admirably to the challenge, finishing in a remarkable 5:35.54. A great achievement, Brian, well done.
We had 25 Nidds at Harrogate parkrun, and managed to field six at Fountains and three at Conyngham Hall. John and Susie Mallett were in Wetherby, Karen Mills and Steve Newbould were in Saltaire’s Roberts Park, Jim and Sarah Cook joined Phil and Rebecca Ventress in Alnwick, while Sarah Gore joined Adam Kirk and Lisa Gibson in Keswick (I mean, I say that, I don’t think she’d gone away with them for the weekend in some athletic ménage à trois, but rather that they just happened to meet on the start line). You can have a look at the full results here: https://tinyurl.com/47nsmxd6.
Now the angel’s got a fiddle / The devil’s got a harp / Every soul is like a minnow / Every mind is like a shark: chair@niddvalleyroadrunners.co.uk.
The Fixtures for the Week Ahead
On Tuesday, we’ve got the second of our away-from-club-run. This one is hosted by yours truly, but don’t let that put you off. It doesn’t do to dwell on the negatives. This week, we are having an off-road run from Kirk Deighton, setting off from outside the Bay Horse Pub (LS22 4DZ) at 7pm. The route is 10k long, although there is a 5k option if you want something easier. The route is pretty flat and you’ll be fine in road shoes. I’ll have maps with me on the night, but you can have a look here if you want a preview: https://tinyurl.com/mumh5k7t. We’ll be having a drink in the pub afterwards, if you’d like to join us.
There will not be an organised run from the Hockey Club on Tuesday.
It feels like we’ve not been at the club house for ages, so it’ll be nice to be back on Thursday for our club run, which this week takes in the delights of Valley Gardens. Meet at the Hockey Club and be good to bounce for 7pm. Run out over the Stray by Christchurch and down into town. From there, feed your way up through the Valley Gardens to Harlow Moor Road. You can turn left from there and head back to the club along Otley Road if you want a shorter option, or you can push on through the Pine Woods to Harlow Carr. From Harlow Carr, you can return via a right turn, Birk Crag and Ripon Road, or you can turn left and return via Otley Road and York Place. The choice – as it is always is – is firmly your own. Feel free to amend and tweek as you please, and please don’t leave anyone behind.
It’s going to be emotional on Thursday (you know, #totesemosh) as we say goodbye to Ewa Scott as she prepares for a new and exciting life in Singapore. I mean, she’s going there willingly and isn’t being extradited or anything like that. Anyway, after the club run, we’ll be meeting in the Hockey Club bar for a couple of pints and Ewa has very kindly arranged for a takeaway pizza delivery, so if you’d like to come and bid a fond farewell with a mouth full of pepperoni, then she’d very much like to see you there. There is a Facebook event for those that are down with the kids and that kind of thing, should you wish to register your interest that way: https://tinyurl.com/4j4dcm87.
On Saturday, there will be all the usual parkrun options for those who like their Saturday morning runs to be 5k, friendly and free, although I would like to give a plug for the 5k Your Way initiative. In Harrogate, this is spearheaded by our very own Rebecca Ventress, who invites anyone suffering from, recovering from, or otherwise affected by, cancer to come to Harrogate parkrun on the last Saturday of the month. All are welcome to run, jog, walk or otherwise take part in whatever way they feel able to do so. You can read up beforehand (https://tinyurl.com/3cujrvpz) or turn up at parkrun as usual and look for the people in the blue tee-shirts.
There aren’t any races in the championships or anything in the club calendar this weekend, but feel free to organise your run out. Put a shout on via social media or the club email, and you’re sure to find someone to join you.
Apropos nothing, on Sunday there is the James Herriot 14k up at Castle Bolton. This race has been in the club championships on and off for several years now, and has always been popular with Nidders. Entry is only £13.50 and proceeds go to the Wensleydale Rotary Club. If you want to get involved, then this is the place to be: https://tinyurl.com/226f9t6t.
Further Ahead & Booking Now Open
On Sunday 6th August 2023, we’ve got the Round Hill Fell Race (https://tinyurl.com/4j4nxxt5) and the Kings Challenge Fell Race (https://tinyurl.com/y6ct6ymu) follows shortly after on Thursday 10th August 2023, both of which are in the fell championships. These will be entries on the day, so nothing is required of you other than to make a note in your diary and make sure you’ve got your fell shoes from the back of the cupboard.
On 3rd September 2023, we have the Tholthorpe 10k in our road championships. Affiliated runners (that’s you) can get a place for the bargain price of £16.50. They’re not approaching sell-out yet, but it’d be a real boost to them as a club if you could get your entry in now. Entries here: https://tinyurl.com/sy9ze67u.
I’ve had an email from the Race Director of the Sutton 10k asking if I would give a plug for this race, which is being held on 24th September 2023. It’s not in our championships, but if you fancy a sharp and fast 10k (good PB hunting opportunities), then this might be worth a second look: https://tinyurl.com/5n7w8z6u.
Parkrun Takeover: 05 Aug 2023
Thanks to all who have volunteered to support us with our Parkrun takeover in August. We now have a full rota, which you can see here: https://tinyurl.com/yc4mtc4m.
I’ve put a shout out for those of you who are volunteering to send me your barcodes, as this makes it so much easier to update the rota on the parkrun web portal. If I don’t have your mobile number or if we’re not connected on Facebook, then you won’t have heard from me. If you can, please send me your barcode: chair@niddvalleyroadrunners.co.uk.
If you aren’t volunteering, but are still free, then please come along and join in the fun. Get your club colours on, come for a run, and let’s paint the Stray black and gold.
Sylvia’s Relays: 22 Aug 2023
Following on from the eccentric successes of FRP’s Birthday Relays last year, Sylvia has kindly organised another social relay event for the club.
This year, the course will be a 1.5 mile loop on flat(ish) country lanes near Weeton, starting and finishing at St Barnabas’ Church, and we’ll need you to get into teams of four.
Each team will need to get a wooden spoon, which they are to use as their baton.
We’ll be awarding prizes, as follows: fastest female team, fastest male team, fastest mixed team, funniest team name, the team that is closest to their predicted overall finish time, the most consistent team time (ie. the team with the shortest gap between their fastest and slowest leg), and the team with the most amusingly dressed/decorated baton (keep it clean!).
There’ll be soft drinks and cakes in the church hall afterwards.
Please register your team via this link: https://tinyurl.com/uw6bwhr6.
If you can’t pull a team together but would like to run, please let Sylvia know (sylviamorten1@gmail.com) and she’ll make some connections and coordinate some teams if needed.
Thanks to Sylvia for a great idea. It’s going to be a great – if not utterly daft – night.
Word to the Wise
The dose of weekly wisdom comes from Sue Ball, who was reflecting on her fall at the Ripon Handicap Race.
“I did it deliberately, really. It was the only way to stop Rob from overtaking me…!” – Sue Ball, with a humour so dry that she couldn’t be anything but a Nidder.
And so from Sue, from me, and everyone else at Nidd Valley House, have a tremendous week. See you soon.
Chairman Sam x