Chair Update

The race season has officially started with a bang!!!

The Mickleover Running Club massive descended on the Derby 10k in force with at least 29 completing the race, with only Derwent Runners fielding more runners. This is something that Mickleover Running Club continues to excel in, enjoying the local races en-mass and supporting each other to the very end. Especially if that support consists of sitting with a cup of tea and a Jammy Dodger, other jam and cream filled biscuits are available, and hitting refresh on your laptop to see if another intrepid Mickleover Runner has crossed the Manchester Marathon finish line.

A huge well done to those who crossed the finishing line of the Manchester Marathon. Finishing a Marathon is a very big deal with only 1% of the world’s population having ever completed one. So you are able to rightly say that you are in the world’s top 1%.

Many of those who ran in Manchester would have never considered running a Marathon until they joined Mickleover Running Club where there is always somebody talking about Marathon Training and before you know it you want to do one too. So if you have been inspired to take the plunge please do come and speak to myself, or any of the run leaders and we’ll gladly you point you in the right direction to you taking on and completing this awesome challenge.

This week was the first week where we got back into the rolling hills of Derbyshire after our winter tour of Mickleover and surrounding housing estates. Being able to get out and away from the busy roads of Mickleover allows our summer schedule offers a far more diverse set of runs in a far safer environment. Over the coming months we will be offering a number of different runs such as structured runs to really get your legs going, away days to exotic locations such as Markeaton, Etwall and Lees and we will also be hosting a number of sessions lead by England Athletics. Keep an eye out on the run schedule on the Mickleover Running Club website for the latest updates.

Currently the away days are schedule as follows:

• April 30th – Seven Wells, Etwall
• May 20th – Markeaton Park
• July 2nd – The Cow, Lees

Six Star Marathon finish
the long road to get it

To complete the Abbots World Marathon Majors you need 3 things:

• Money, To fly to USA three times, Far East once and Europe twice doesn’t come cheap + hotels, new running shoes and must have marathon jacket, tee shirts and latest bling
• Time, 6 x 16 week training plans and 4-5 weeks away for the marathons
• Understanding partner/family/company. With the above 2 points and most of your company holidays taken up with the marathons trips ,you really do need support from those closest to you!

Happily/fortunately I was/am ok on all 3 points

London April 2014
// finish Time 3hrs 29m

I entered this marathon via charity NSPCC it cost £1,500 in a ‘donation.’ The start at Greenwich was easy to get to and only 2hrs before the race.

The weather was perfect about 15oC at the start I was in Pen 3 and could see the start and it took about 5 mins to get over the line. The 1st 6 miles were slightly downhill and I remember thinking I am going too fast but I was excited so carried on.

At 6 miles 2 roads meet like a giant snake in the distance and all runners meet up from the 2 different start points. When you get to Cutty Sark the noise so loud, then over Tower bridge which was amazing the spectators were 10 deep.

Then you run around the banking district Canary wharf, which was a bit lonely re crowds , then at about 30K you hit the long Embankment road towards home, I spotted Sheena & Grace in the crowed dived over for a hug and off I went, you can see Big ben and the London Eye in the distance, crowds immense and by now my fast start was catching up with me but I soldiered on and at Big Ben there is only a mile to go, past the houses pf parliament turned up bird cage road past Buck palace waved at the queen and there was the finish line a great finish point.

New York Nov 2014
// finish Time 3hrs 34m

I qualified for this marathon based on my RAK half time of 1hr 28m against aged 50+ this was actually my 2nd NY marathon, having ran in the cancelled (Storm Sandy) in 2012 around Central Park.

The weather was awful for this marathon, it was cold, very, very windy as we lined up 4hrs before the start (6am) in the dark along the Verrazano Narrows bridge.

The start gun went off and to the tune of Sinatra singing New York, New York we moved forward, it took me about 10 mins to cross the line, running over the bridge (I was top deck) was fantastic I loved it, seeing thousands of heads bobbing over the 2km bridge.

The race itself takes you through the 5 boroughs of New York, Brooklyn & Queens I don’t remember that much and then just after the half way when you run over another bridge to Manhattan you hit 2nd avenue, the noise was tremendous from the crowds, it spurred you on for the 2nd half of the race, running all the way up 2nd avenue, into the Bronx then onto Central park, which is very undulating then you turn and see the finish line, the crowds are fantastic for a stunning finish.

Boston April 2015
// finish Time 3hrs 29m

I qualified for this marathon with my Dubai time of 3hrs 21m. The grandad of all marathons, the whole of Boston really does welcome you unlike NY or London which are used to hosting major sporting occasions.

But like NY you are bussed 4 hrs before the start gun, to the start area. It was raining, not too cold but raining. You are placed in pens of 2,000 other runners of similar time finish and walked from pen to pen till 20 mins after the gun started we got to our start.

Like London the 1st 10K is down hill but I controlled myself not to go too fast, lots of areas you run through are in country lanes so no crowds but you do get to sing at every mile marker Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline (the Boston Red Sox anthem of choice). At Wellesley College (20k in) you meet a wall of screaming college girls who give our kisses to all runners, then you get the famous heartbreak hill at 20 miles/32K a series of 4 hills that sap your legs, plus the rain came down very heavy at this point, and after the hills you ran through water, I was getting very cold at this point, but as I was running, a guy called out the Mirdif Milers, it was a runner I knew from Comrades called slow duck (he is a member of the 100 marathon club so not slow at all) we pushed each other along but both of us were cold wet and couldn’t wait to get home to a warm shower, we push to get sub 3:30 which we just did. I stayed in the shower/bath for an hour I have never been so cold after a race.

Tokyo February 2016
// finish Time 3hrs 22m

I entered this race via UK sports tours international as the lottery sold out in a day. Our hotel was 5 mins from the start and the organisation at the start was typically Japanese very efficient.

I could see the start line clearly in front and it only took 2 mins to cross the line when the huge fan fare of ticker tape and balloons went off with the gun.

The streets were wide as we all snaked down into the Imperial palace and high end shopping areas, the route took us in a figure 8 so you were constantly seeing other runners on both sides of the streets, the crowds were huge all ringing cattle bells? And singing, drinks stops were an art form giving out drinks in military style and no discarded cups or gels anywhere, you threw them in the bin.

At 30k you went around a sharp turn and headed the 12K back home, at this point I was on for a PB, and maintained the pace until about 4k to go them you ran over a series of bridges over canals and rivers the last being at 41K !! the crowds were sparse at this point as you finished in a bus car park next to an exhibition hall. The last 4k slowed me down with the bridges and I finished in my 2nd fastest marathon 1 min 30 seconds short of my PB.

I don’t actually remember that much about the route or the sites as I was too focused on getting a PB. When I went to collect my drop bag, about 100 or so volunteers in a large hall all started clapping me (and other finishers) which was very emotional.

Chicago Oct 2016
// Finished in 4hrs:02m

I entered this marathon through the web site lottery and go in. 14 hr flight and 10 hrs time difference (to Dubai) really does mess with you doing USA marathons.

This marathon was the simplest and easiest to get to the starting line up compared to NY & Boston, left my hotel at 6am got to the pen at 6 30 could easily see the start line and gun off at 7:30am.

it took me 2 mins to get over the starting line. you then head straight into a tunnel for a couple of Km that really messes up with your Garman sat nav your Av pace is all over the place.

Then you run through some very expensive parts of town by the marina, over the river lots of times winding in and out of the city, the crowds were really big and excited (Chicago Cubs could win the championship the same night at rounder’s for the 1st time in years) then at 19k my hamstring went tight, I tried to slow down but it got worse, so I jogged back, walking and jogging I was not going to give up, I tried to push, but felt awful.

Cheesed off and got home just after 4hrs, I had not even bother to look at the time, maybe if I did I would have pushed for sub 4hrs, but I wasn’t bothered at all. I remember China town that’s about it in the 2nd 21k

Berlin September 2017
//Finished in 3hr 27m

I entered this race again through UK sports tours .The last of the 6, training went very well I stuck to the plan. Getting to the start was easy, a 20 min walk from my Tiergarten hotel then in the pens with 1 hr to wait.

A guy next to me seeing my club vest said, are you Malcolm from the Mirdif Milers (My shirt did have Malcolm and Mirdif Milers on it, so you don’t have to be Sherlock to work that out) Turns out he was from Al Ain, and has ran the Donut 10 before and that’s where he had seen me doing the comparing bit, small world only 47,000 in the start and he was next to me.

It was drizzling at the start and it took me 6 mins to get over the line, you ran along a very wide duel carriage way and after 1 k you split either left or right around the Victory Column then meet up again the other side. For 2 more Km its fine lots of space then you all turn right and stop… it was so packed that for the next 5k I was weaving in and out of runners until about 8k when I got a free path in front of me. The water stops were treacherous plastic cups and water everywhere and runners darting across the road in front of you to get water.

The crowds were good, but although its only 2 weeks ago, I don’t remember much of the views for the 1st 30k or so, then as we headed into town I spotted the tourist sites. I had hoped for a fast time, maybe even a PB but my Garmin was bleeping a km mark well before the actual KM mark on the road, I had lost a lot of time during those 3-8k weaving in and out.

At 35K I knew I wouldn’t get a fast time, so I took in all the sites and relaxed chatted to other runners (I had a special sticker on the back of my shirt saying last of the six majors) so lots of runners were cheering me on, at 40K I am looking for the Brandenburg Gate, but still couldn’t see it, then at 41k around a corner it was there. We all made a last push as we went through only to realise its another 400m to the finish.

Finally I has completed the world 6 majors. My watch showed 43.5K so I must have ran in/out of runners for a km more between 3-8k. They gave me my Berlin medal, then another 50m after the finish I saw the Abbots Marathon Flags. This year they give out the 6 star finishers medals at the end of every major (previously they posted them).

There were 40 runners in Berlin that could get a six star, and became number 2,122 in the world to complete all 6. Lots of photos with the race director of Boston and other runners, who on the way to the station all congratulated me.

IN REVIEW

As with all my marathons I do an after marathon in the bars. In the USA for all 3 races I got the most free beers for being British and flying from Dubai, the Americans love that effort & commitment.

Berlin the best beers, London Free beer if you have your medal (in selective pubs only) Tokyo most expensive Kilkenny in an Irish pub

SO THE BEST Bits of the 6

Best start: New York Running over Verrazano Narrows bridge is amazing, Tokyo was also very good

Loudest crowd: London by Cutty Sark and NY 2nd avenue

Biggest crowd throughout: London/New York

Best after party New York, after the marathon shower & changed, I was out until 3am so 23hrs up that day as I was up at 4am to get to the start.

Best medal: Boston (and the six star)

Best marathon Jacket: White Tokyo

Best Expo: London or New York

My favourite: no one particular race, sure Tokyo was my fastest, NY was an amazing 24hrs. Its bits of all 6 are my favourites. Start NY 5K harbour area of Chicago 10k Cutty Sark, 21K Tokyo (Imperial Palace) 35k Embankment London, 35K Central park. Finish London, New York & Berlin

Worst Bits of the 6

Time difference of 10hrs in the USA marathons and getting up 6hrs before a race

Longest time hanging around before the start: New York 4hrs & Boston 4hrs

Suggestions if you wish to do the 6

Be prepared to pay charity (London) or sports tours Berlin /Tokyo. Use your Half marathon age time to qualify for NY (its easier) if you’re not fast do speed work each week or wait till your old to qualify for Boston.

Don’t book a bag drop in USA you walk miles to get your bag back and que, get the free poncho in most races and NY is a great one

PB in a Major? All 6 races are very busy at the start with 3 races over 45,000 plus you don’t get to see the sights chat to other runners if you are glued to your watch all the time, I tried in London, Tokyo and Berlin for a PB. London went off too fast, Tokyo the last 4k with bridges killed me and Berlin too crowded from 3-8k. If you are going to aim for a PB I suggest Tokyo as this has the widest roads and less bottlenecks

Always wear your medal at night after the race you get free beer

VLM // RASING MONEY FOR lynch Syndrome UK Cancer Charity

I am running the London Marathon in April of this year with 2 goals in mind - (1) to finish the race and (2) to raise awareness and money on behalf of the Lynch Syndrome UK Charity.

In 2015 I was diagnosed with bowel cancer in my early 40s and was unaware of a family history on my father's side.

In 2016 I was diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome which resulted in further operations in 2017. As a result of my condition, I now have to have life long screening to monitor this genetic condition.

The Lynch Syndrome UK Charity has been a pillar of support over the last few years providing advice, research and when needed a much needed shoulder to cry on.

Further information on the charity can be found at lynch-syndrome-uk.org

Shelly's Just Giving Page

Photo of the fortnight

James S keeping cosy in Skys blanket prior the Derby 10k.

To be avaiable in club colours soon...

HAIRY HELMET // Date for the diary - 19th June.

Date for the diary - 19th June. This is a great social event and it would be great so see club members there to cheer on the teams. There's a fun run at 6pm for all the family (bookings still being taken online) and then the relay starts at 19.15pm.

Confirmed teams are:
Emma, Lucinda, Dan & Ewan
Raj, Lucy, Andy F, Wilf
Jacqui, John, Kellie, Aaron
Shelly, Al W, Tracey, Paul W
Katie, Chloe, Tom, Paul D

Membership renew 2019/20

Members

Membership Renewals

Membership Renewal

Thank you for your support and being a member of the club! We hope you've enjoyed it and maybe we will see you again some day!!

Club Kit (Blue/Orange kit) Update

The order deadline has now passed and the bulk order has been placed.

There are a few items in stock so you will need to speak very nicely to James to see what he's got available if you didn't place an order.

What is Easter?, “It's when you crack open a chocolate Easter egg, that smiles emerge.”
Anthony T Hincks, author

Race Results and Events Update

Manchester Marathon

Matt Buller ran exceptionally well in a cracking 3.06, but a special mention to Brad & Dan Foley and Paul Dolman – who finished their first marathon. Well done to all in the Manc Marathon Gang 😊.

Derby 10k

As one of the largest of the local events some 4000+ runners met on Pride Park and at 9am the gun/hooter sounded and the masses charged off around the roads of Pride Park and the City Centre.

We had 30+ members taking part in this event with many running exceptionally well. I suspect some have ran new pbs as the cool spring weather offered near ideally conditions.

So, again, many congrats to all who ran – and be pleased with your effort 😊. First male finisher was Aaron, with Ross 2nd and Lee Swales (a new member to the club) was our 3rd finisher. For the Ladies, Emma was first home, with Rowan and Raj making up the top 3.

If you did run a pb, please do pass on your time to Emma who can update our records and webpage: results@mickleoverrunningclub.bo.uk

Massive congrats to those mentioned, but also to all the members who ran in the 5 races over the winter period. They are hard work, but they also offer a great sense of achievement and a chance to represent the club first and foremost.

Ok, they may no be on everyone’s ideal marathon prep, but they do offer something different to ones normal running and training. So, for the winter 2019/20 – please think abut giving these ago and please remember you are representing the club at these races.

MRC Club records

Emma has been working hard collecting lots of results, if you havent let please do so following the info. below...

If you have any amendments to the records please email the club using the email address results@mickleoverrunningclub.co.uk stating the following information.

• Your full Name
• Name of event
• Distance (must be one of: 10k, 10 mile, Half Marathon, Marathon)
• The date of the event (since Sept 2016 only)
• The chip time
• The age category at the time of running

click here to view tables

Club Championships:

However, I am aware that the Derby 10k does present a few issues, due to the nature of the beast and the timing of the event. Thus, is you fall into one of the following:

• 1. If you entered the Derby 10k and only recently joined MRC.
• 2. If you entered the Derby 10k as a ‘social’ member but have not upgraded to Full Affiliation.
• 3. If you entered the Derby 10k whilst a member of another club, but have not put in a transfer request to be MRC 1st Claim.
• 4. If you entered the derby 10k as part of the Business Challenge.

Could you please email me: clubcaptain.mrc@gmail.com so I can update the records from the Derby 10k results and I can work out the scores. This may also apply to for members who have entered the Sinfin Classic so if you can give me the heads up on that it will be appreciated. I will finalise the results next weekend (20-21 April).

Derby Run Series

Future Events

28th April

5th May

12th May

19th May

Away from racing, there are other events planned for the club and the members:
23rd April, we have managed to secure the services of Chris Hollinshead, a fully Qualified EA Coach to lead a session for members. This is open to all members to take part and a chance to have a go at something a little different. This is the first in 3 sessions that will be led by Chris over the coming months and presents an ideal opportunity to see and experience different training ideas/methods. On this evening, the only other session will be an easy 4mile run, led by Beckie – for those running VLM at the weekend.

20 runners secrets

Here are 20 secrets that you might learn after you’ve been running for a while:

1. Your feet will look like crap. Blisters, black toenails, calluses. If you get pedicures, just apologize when you go in the salon.

2. When people (non-runner types) learn that you are a runner, they often like to tell you how much they hate running or that running will ruin your knees.

3. You don’t have to look like a runner to be a runner.

4. If you only run and don’t do anything else (cross-train, strength train), you will probably get injured.

5. Most people, especially non-runners, really don’t care that much about your running.

6. You will run a race, and in the middle of it, you will tell yourself that you will never do this again. But 30 minutes after you finish, you will surf the Internet for your next race. Running is kind of like childbirth in that way.

7. You will go through phases where you feel totally inadequate as a runner.

8. You will go through phases where you feel totally like a rock star as a runner.

9. You might gain weight instead of losing it while training for a marathon.

10. Having a spare pair of shorts in your car is important. Soiling of all kinds can happen. Eww!

11. You will be pissed if someone refers to you as a “jogger” instead of a “runner.”

12. Sometimes, other runners won’t say “hi” to you when you run by them.

13. You might pee yourself while you run, or worse.

14. Running is expensive. It’s not just about a pair of shoes and shorts and a top. There are race entries, massages, watches, sports bras, cute running skirts, gels, blocks and recovery stuff.

15. You will get addicted. Yes, there are worse things than running to obsess over (like meth and prostitutes), but you might be surprised by how hooked you get into the whole running thing once you start.

16. >After a while, you cannot get the stench out of your running clothes.

17. >You will never be the fastest runner you know. You will never be the slowest runner you know.

18. Farts happen. A lot.

19. Running performance is as much – if not more – about mental strength as physical strength.

20. You will never forget crossing the finish line of your first marathon or half marathon. That moment in time will come to mean a lot to you. Your feet might not even touch the ground.

Beckie & Nic rasing money for Sense

We are running the London Marathon fundraising for Sense, a charity that believes that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential.

Their experts offer personalised support through their centres, holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes.

They are here for everyone who needs them, for as long as they need them – providing early intervention for children, helping young people access education, and supporting the transition into adulthood and beyond.

This is a huge challenge, and Nic’s FIRST MARATHON!!!!!!