News

The clocks changing means we can start to move our runs (the beginning at least) out a bit more rural, so this week we have a choice of runs, around 5k, 10k or 8 miles - heading out around the Heath Rd area but starting off on the canal - routes on the calendar.

We’ll ask people to get into pace groups for the runs

The clocks changing means we can start to move our runs (the beginning at least) out a bit more rural, so this week we have a choice of runs, around 5k, 10k or 8 miles - heading out around the Heath Rd area but starting off on the canal - routes on the calendar.

We’ll ask people to get into pace groups for the runs

It's "out and back" week so we'll all run the same route for 25 minutes then return - the faster you go, the further you run. Also, for a longer distance, there's an optional 2 mile loop out to Brooklands when you've get back. Both routes on the calendar.

Sunshine and warm temperatures greeted the 200 athletes who took part in the 2012 edition of the Leighton Buzzard 10KM organised by the Leighton Fun Runners.

Young and old took park in the event, as well as a Dragon (running for charity) and competitors from as far afield as Scotland which goes to show the popularity of the event which is still in its infancy.

None of the runners were deterred by the challenging course with its fearsome ascent of Shenley Hill during the latter stages of the race.

Michael Aldridge (Rugby and Northampton AC) sealed the victory in a time of 33mins 13secs, with the leading lady Emma Curtis-Smith (Bearbrook Joggers) completing the course in 40mins 51secs securing 21st place overall.

Colin Aitken was the top finisher for the host club running the course in a time of 41mins 32secs, closely followed by Neil Warby (43mins 54secs) and Verity Allsopp (46mins 03secs). The trio’s compatriot’s times were as follows; Brian Joy (49mins 02secs), Phil Harpin (54mins), Katy Miller (55mins 38secs), Paul Thomas (56mins 04secs), Anna Mead (1hr 01min 18secs), Maggie Woolhead (1hr 01min 46secs), Lesley Muggeridge (1hr 02mins 54secs), Stacey Odwell (1hr 08mins 29secs) and Jo Pamlon (1hr 11mins 07secs).

Refreshments were on hand to aid the runners with their recovery as well as post race massage and support from the town’s local shop “Buzzard Sports”. One of the country’s top triathletes, Mark Kleanthous was also at the event to promote his newly published book on triathlon training. Mark also ran the 10km and finished in a respectable 20th place.

A big thank you to everyone who took part and to the support team involved for making it another successful LFR event!

The photograph for this race report was provided by Claire Amos.

Routes on the calendar - a choice of 3.5, 5.5 or 8m routes heading out to Stanbridge Rd, Billington Park, South St and Hockliffe Rd. Back via Plantation Rd for the long 'un. We'll split into pace groups.

Berkhampstead Half Marathon 2012

Photographs from the 2012 edition of the Berkhampstead Half Marathon, taken by Claire Amos, have now been uploaded to the gallery section. A race report will follow shortly...

To all Leighton Fun Runners, 

We have recently had a meeting and I would like to update you all on one or two things. Firstly as you may already know the AGM is not too far away. This year we have arranged to hold it at The Hunt Hotel on Friday 4th May 2012. Once all the formal stuff is done there will be a buffet and hopefully we can all enjoy a jolly up! A little nearer the time we will need to know how many people will attend to make sure there will be enough food provided. 

There is also our annual opportunity for people to join the club committee. We meet monthly on a Weds evening to manage the club and plan out the activities we do.

The committee really benefits from having new people on board – no experience necessary! 

All roles are re-elected each year - some of you may be aware that Brian Snowdon has decided to step down as Chairman along with Donna Savic, Karen Kirwan and Karrie Archer. 

A couple of runners have expressed an interest in joining so please let us know if you would like to take part and put something back into the club. Have a chat with any of the committee if you would like to find out more. 

Even if you don't wish to join the committee there are lots of events where extra help is needed and would always appreciate an extra pair of hands, so again let us know if you would like to be more involved. We are trying to have more social events and would welcome new ideas. 

There will be a new award this year which all club members are able to vote. It is called the "runners runner" award, and there will be a 1st, 2nd and 3rd trophy. 

Details on how the voting will work is to be confirmed. This award will replace the female/male runner of the year. 

I think that's all for now and will let you know more details as soon as I can on how the voting will be done for the new award. 

Max Marshall

Club Secretary