Sunday 25 December 2011

December Newsletter and EGM Minutes

Emailed by Sim on the 9th December. Apologies for the delay in posting on the blog.

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Hello all,
A brief update for you as we end an eventful 2011.

Ware Cup 5 mile XC - Saturday 10th December 2:30pm - Loughton
Just a quick reminder that tomorrow is the annual Ware Cup cross country race, held at Loughton.  The club are the current holders of the Ware Cup and with  strong turn out we have a genuine chance of retaining this silverware. Let's not let another club steal it from us! You don't need to register, it's free to run, but we depend on as many members running as possible to have a chance.

The club is pretty easy to get to by road with some parking on site and nearby roads or a walk from Loughton tube station (Central Line is in full operation).  Full details and directions will be posted on the club website noticeboard.

New Board and EGM
Following the EGM held on 1st December, the motion to reduce the board size was not passed.  The new committee members were voted in also.  For full details please see the minutes from the EGM.

Welcome to long time member Dave Robinson as the new club chairman.  Holly Gilbert is now Women's Road & XC Captain and Patricia (Pats) Carden is the club secretary.  Please join me in welcoming these new committee members. Our thanks go out to those members stepping down also for their input during their tenure.

End of year races

Metropolitan League XC Race 3 - Saturday 17th December - Ruislip
Third race of the series of the Metropolitan League.  A bit of a trek to Ruislip woods for this high standard XC race.  Full details can be found on the LCR Met League website

Pre-Christmas Handicap 2.9 mile - Thursday 22nd December - Any takers?
Finish the year in speed and style!  If there is enough interest in a pre-Christmas handicap (as last year) then we can hold a December handicap.  The usual set up will apply, meet at the club house at 7pm for a 7.20pm-ish start.  Post on the club noticeboard if you'd like a race - if we get more than 20, I'll make sure it happens - if you'd like to help out with timekeeping rather than run then that will definitely help.  Either way, there will be a session at the club that night and no doubt the bar will be open afterwards.

Annual Mob Match 2.9 miles - Tuesday January 3rd 2012 7:45pm start
Start the year in speed and style!  This race against local club and great rivals Eton Manor AC has been taking place for many many years and is always a great start to the new year, if occasionally a shock to the system so soon after Christmas.  Just like the monthly handicap it's three laps of Well Street Common, but run as an all-starter race rather than a handicap.  Come along in good time to register,
warm up and get to the start.  

That's it for now, until next year. Have a great Christmas and new year, come back fit and well in the new year, dear members.

Simeon

Men's Road & XC Captain

Saturday 26 November 2011

2012 Events Update

The SEAA Indoor Athletics Championships (closing date 3rd Jan/10th Jan 2012 depending on event), SEAA Southern XC Championships (closing date 16th Dec 2011) and ECCA National XC Championships (closing date 4th Jan 2012) have been added to the calendar.

Go to http://www.vphthac.org.uk/fixtures.html for more information.

Sunday 13 November 2011

Extraordinary General Meeting

Dear Members of VPH & TH AC,
 
Following the club's Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in October two votes were held on a proposed change to a rule regarding the structure of the club's board.  Both votes were hung at 19 for, 19 against.  As a result, and in order to resolve the matter, an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) was proposed along with some remote voting mechanisms to give more members the chance to vote or for those who had already expressed their preference at the AGM the chance to vote without attending the EGM.
 
A full EGM notice with details regarding the proposed change to the rule, agenda, details regarding the change to the board structure voting details and the voting form is available here.  The minutes from the AGM are available here. If you have trouble reading either document or would prefer a hard copy please contact me (write2sim@yahoo.com) and I will make arrangement for you.  Hard copies of the notice will be posted at Mile End track and at the club house.  Copies of the minutes will be made available at the club house.
 
Details:
The EGM will be held on Thursday 1st December, 2011, 8:45PM in the Club house, St Augustine's Hall, Cadogan Terrage, London E9.
 
About voting in the EGM:
  • The vote will be held on the night of the EGM, alternatives to voting in person on the night are detailed below. 
  • If you intend to send a representative to vote on your behalf (a proxy) at the EGM please make sure you comply with the requirements detailed on page one of the EGM notice attachment. 
  • If you wish to email your vote, please send an email detailing your choice to the address created specifically for this purpose vphthac2011@gmail.com stating whether you are FOR or AGAINST the motion. Your vote will be treated in strict confidence. The deadline is Midnight, Tuesday 29th November.
  • If you wish to post your vote please print and complete the voting form and send to the address detailed on the form.  The deadline for receipt is Tuesday 29th November.  Your vote will be treated in strict confidence.
  • The usual voting rules apply, e.g. you must be a registed first claim or associate member, over 18 years of age. Your membership fees for the year must be paid (unless you have an exemption, such as a life member for example).  You can only vote once (if you vote by email or post you can not vote again on the night of the EGM or via a proxy)
  • Please remember, even if you voted at the AGM on this matter you will need to vote once again using one of the above methods to ensure your voice is heard and your vote counts.
 
Remember, if you have concerns or questions you can contact me directly at write2sim@yahoo.com or contact the current board as a whole at vphthac-directors@googlegroups.com.
 
Thank you for taking the time to read this message.  We look forward to your vote in deciding how the club is managed in the future.
 
Simeon (Men's Captain, Road & XC Running)

Victoria Park works update

The latest update on the refurbishment works in Victoria Park are here.

November Newsletter

Dear Members

Some update for November and into the new Olympic year...

Extraordinary General Meeting - Thursday 1st December, 8:45pm
A reminder that an EGM for a vote regarding how the club board is to be structured in the future will be held.  If you are unable to attend, you can send a proxy or vote by post or email.  Contact me for details if you did not receive the notice.   

Club Christmas Party - Saturday 3rd December: 7pm until late
If you go to one Christmas party this year, might as well do it in style and make it this one.  It is always good fun, sometimes a drink or two might be consumed to get in the Christmas spirit.  There will be music, dancing, good food and winter warmth on offer (if we get the gas fire fixed in time!).  Tickets are just £10, which includes your food and a glass of Wulled Mine.   As ever, it's volunteers who bring you these events, so Rob is looking for some contributors to help with the catering.  If anyone is willing to bring a dish of christmas delight then have a chat with him after at the club or email him robpitkethly@yahoo.co.uk.  The costs of ingredients will be reimbursed.


Middlesex Cross Country Race (Wormwood Scrubs park) - Saturday 7th January 2012
Juniors from 11am. Senior Women 8k 1pm, Senior Men 12k 1:45pm    I have received the entry forms for the above.  There are elgibility criteria for Middx races, based upon birth, residence or previous competition.  Most club members are eligible to enter but some who live outside the catchment may not be,  contact me if you are unsure.  If you would like to race in this county-standard race please let me know, preferably via email with your name, DOB and Address.  As usual, the club will pay your entry fees  (£3 per runner)
providing you turn up and your annual subscriptions are paid.     Deadline: 18th December.

National Cross Country Championships - Parliament Hill - Saturday 25th February 2012
Junior race from 11am (3k - 10k), Senior Women (8k) 2:20pm, Senior Men (12k) 3pm.  The 'big one' at Parliament Hll. It will be hilly, it will be muddy and there will be some great competition going on.  Entrants must be first claim members for the club if you wish to enter.  If you'd like to enter, contact me with your name and DOB.  As usual, the club will pay your entry fees (£6 per runner) providing you turn up and you are up to date with your annual subscriptions.  Deadline: 23rd December.

Subscriptions now due
The subscription year runs from November.  If you've not yet paid, please make arrangements to do so. The fees are unchanged yet again for the year 2011-12, full details are on the Join section of the club website.   You don't need to fill out a form if you are already a member.  Bank transfers are preferred - please put your name as a reference, otherwise please hand cheques or cash to me or any of the other directors / coaches at the club.  

Recent Road & XC Race Results:
October handicap results are on the website noticeboard and also available at this link:

North London XC Association race results are available here:

Chingford League
The results are collated and hosted by Bob Jousiffe from Orion Harriers who works very hard to get the results published in good time.  All the details are here: http://www.bob-orion.me.uk/4.html

Wrap up warm and enjoy those Autumn runs, folks.

Simeon
Men's Road & XC Running Captain

Wednesday 19 October 2011

October Newsletter



Hello all, chilly October greetings as the nights draw in and the leaves fall, welcome to the latest newsletter


AGM - This Thursday 20th October, 8:30pm - Club House, Cadogan Terrace
We look forward to welcoming you all at the forthcoming AGM, this Thursday in the Clubhouse, startng at 8:30PM.  The agenda, minutes and accounts are available here and the Directors' annual report is available to read on line. Limited hard copies will be available on the night if need.  Please let me know in advance if you specifically want a hard copy or large print copy and I will make sure one is produced.
October 2.9 mile Monthly Handicap – Thursday October 27th, 2011. 7pm
Next Thursday the monthly handicap will take place as usual.Previous results are available here.
 
Virgin London Marathon 2012 – Club Allocated Places – Ballot Thursday 27th October 2011 8:45pm
Once again the club has been allocated 4 places at next year’s race.  The ballot for the places will be held in the club bar after the handicap on Thursday 27th October (around 8:45pm).  Please let me or any of the other director’s know by Wednesday 26th if you would like to be entered for the ballot.  Remember, you will need to be eligible for entry in to the ballot, check the eligibility criteria here and remember you will need your rejection letter as proof:http://www.vphthac.org.uk/marathon.html

North London Cross Country Associaton, Kingsbury, Saturday 29th October 2011 (2pm, 2:45pm)
The above XC race is taking place please let me kow ASAP if you would like me to enter you for this race.  Send me your name and DOB by email to vphthac-owner@googlegroups.com
Club House Autumn Working Party - Sunday 6th November
It's Autumn, the leaves are falling thick and fast so we are planning a leaf-based working party on the above date.  If you are part of the club and benefit from the use of the club house, the bar, the coaching sessions, the races etc. now is your chance to give a little bit back if you have yet to do so this year.  We may well stuck like a stuck record (remember those?) but the place really does rely on everyone doing a little bit.  If you've not got involved yet this year come along and do your bit, even for a few hours.

That's it for now.  Hope to see some of you at the AGM or the winter races.
Simeon
Men's Road & XC Captain

Sunday 9 October 2011

Notice of Annual General Meeting


Dear Members
This is to invite you all to the club AGM, which will be held immediately after the Thursday night training session on 20 October 8:30 pm in the main hall of the Victoria Park Harriers & Tower Hamlets AC Club House, St Augustine's Hall, Cadogan Terrace, London. E9
Please note only fully paid-up members are entitled to vote at the AGM.
Please find links to:
Nominations are invited for these vacant positions on the Board of Directors: 


1      Chair           
2      Director of Women’s Road and Cross Country     
3      Director of Men’s Track and Field     
4      Director of Facilities
5      Director of Coaching and Officials
If you would like to stand for elections to any of the vacant positions, or nominate someone, or wish to propose a motion at the AGM, please let  the Club Secretary, Brenda Puech, know as soon as possible on bpuech@hotmail.com. If you would like to know more about any of the vacant positions, please have a chat with any one of the existing Directors (who can be conducted at vphthac-directors@googlegroups.com).  All requests will be treated as confidential
The latest date for receipt of motions for the AGM is 14 October 2011
Nominations may also be submitted for the following:
President - This is a ceremonial figurehead position within the club. Peter McHugh was Club President during last year.
Life Member - Quoting our club rule:  "Life membership may be awarded to any member upon completion of 21 years continuous membership, or for outstanding service to the club. An eligible candidate must be recommended by the committee and be approved at an Annual General Meeting by a three-fourth's majority decision of all those present." Peter McHugh was the last elected Life Member..
Vice President - A ceremonial award for outstanding service to the club. Kelvin Richards was elected as Vice President last year.
Life Vice President - This is the highest honour that can be bestowed by any club across the country and is not to be taken lightly. In the 105-years of combined history of VPH and THAC, there have only been 14 Life Vice Presidents. The last member to be so honoured was Terry Adams in 2007.
We look forward to seeing you at the AGM.
Best wishes
Simeon
Men's Captain Road & XC Running

Tuesday 4 October 2011

Quick October Update - Neswletter coming soon

Chingford League Race #1 - Hog Hill Cycle Circuit - Tuesday 4th October 2011
Unfortunately the mini-bus option has fallen through for tomorrow night due to lack of available drivers.  However, the race is still going ahead. For those who've not run it before it is the first 'Cross Country' race of the season and part of the Chingford League, though being on a tarmac cycle circuit it is actually a road race.  The venue and facility is very good, though the course is not illuminated we rely somewhat on the London glow and the moon. It's a good race to start the season, since we are doing it twice.

Please bring your road shoes (NOT your spikes).

Venue: Redbridge Cycling Centre ('Hog Hill'). 
Times: Senior Race 8:05PM, Juniors U15/U17: 7:45PM, Juniors U13: 7:30PM
Travel: Nearest tube stations are Fairlop and Hainult on the Central Line [map]
For the bus, alight at Hainult and take the 247 bus towards Romford and get out at 'Romford Road / Forest Road' outside the centre.

If anyone is travelling by car, please can they post it on the club noticeboard thread in order to share lifts - that will be very much appreciated. I suggest if you are driving, please don't leave the club any later than 7pm to get there in time for the senior race start. http://disc.yourwebapps.com/Indices/180697.html

Reminder: There is no led session at the club house Tuesday night (4th October) in order that as many runners as possible can support the race.
Winter Fixtures:
The fixture list is nearly complete and will be circulated and posted very shortly, in the meanwhile here are a few of the major events coming up to get in your diary early:
Chingford League XC:
Oct 4th - Hog Hill 8pm
Oct 15th - Trent Park 2.30pm
Nov 1st Hog Hill 8pm
Nov 26th Alexandra Palace 2.30pm
Jan 21st Chingford (Orion) 2.30pm
Feb 18th Victoria Park 2.30pm
Mar 17th Relays Highams Park 1pm

Metropolitan League XC:
Oct 8th - Claybury
Nov 12th - Stevenage
Dec 17th - Ruislip
Jan 14th - Trent Park
Feb 11th - Horsenden Hill

A few others:
Oct 29th - Kingsbury - North London XC Champs
Dec 10th - Ware Cup  2.30 Loughton
Jan 28th Southern Championships XC Brighton
Feb 25th National XC Championships Parliament Hill
Mar 24th Orion 15
Mar 28th Physical Shield 8pm

There are also the remainder of the Club Championships race to fit in to the Calendar, including the 3.5mile, 5 mile XC, 10 mile and 20 mile and Mike Penman 10k.

That's it for now,

Here comes the Autumn, believe it or not. 

Cheers, 
Simeon
(VPH & TH AC - Men's Road and XC Captain)

Wednesday 17 August 2011

August 2011 Newsletter


Hello all,

It's going to be a busy few weeks with plenty of races and other things going on, so read on very carefully....
 
Thursday 17th August 7:15pm - Assembly League Race #5 ~3.5 miles - Victoria Park
The fifth race of the series, and our second home race so a good turn out is expected.  We have made up some ground in the assembly league this season - please continue to support by getting there in good time to collect a number and warm up to run, the race should start around 7:15.
 
Women's Middle Distance (800, 1500m, 3000m) - Competition (Saturday 20th August) Coaching (every Saturday)
There is a Women's Track & Field Match on Saturday August 20th 2011 in Eton, and we are looking for senior women to run the middle distances: 800; 1500; 3000.  Transport will be provided.  Contact Robb Birchley robert_birchley@hotmail.com

Robb is also leading some Middle Distance training sessions whichwill normally be at Mile End Stadium at 11am on Saturdays, however, for the next three weeks (whilst the track is being relaid) they will be held at the old cinder track in Vitoria Park (at the same time).  These sessions will be good for distance runners of any discipline/distance though the focus will be specifically on improving at these specifics distances for competition.
 
Saturday 20th August - Day time
The Pride London 10k will take place in the Park starting at 11am.  We usually help out with this race also so if you are at a loose end and fancy getting invovled please see the notice on the noticeboard:
 
Saturday 20th August - Evening - Club barbecue and Chunder Mile
 
The club summer barbecue will take place from 6:30pm - see the club website site for more details: www.vphthac.org.uk
 
As part of the barbecue fun is also theVPH&TH Chunder Mile. Now in it's third year, the will be taking place alongside the Club Barbie.  Venue will be the old cinder track in Victoria Park; start time 7pm.

For those that are unaware, the Chunder Mile involves running a mile and drinking four pints (four half-pints for women) with a high probability of chunder!  You start the race with the consumption of a pint (or half pint) of lager - minimum 4% alcohol - (which will be provided) and proceed to run a lap of the track (400 metres) plus 9 metres.  You then stop and consume another pint (or half pint) and then run another lap of the track.  You are now half way.  Two more drinks; two more laps, and you are finished (in more than one sense).  One may chunder at one's own discretion.

Cost is £5 (to cover the cost of the beer). Interested parties please email Robb onrobert_birchley@ hotmail.com
 
Thursday 25th August 7:15pm - London Business Houses 5M Race Victoria Park
Once a year, in place of the 5 mile handicap we run the event as a straight race with old friends the London Business Houses so expect a slightly larger number of runners than usual.  Usual start time and, of course, the bar will be open afterwards to refresh those aching limbs.
 
Thursday 1st September 7:15pm - Assembly League Race #6 ~3.5 miles - Beckenham
The last race of the season at Beckenham.  We will rely on as many members making an effort to get to this race to complete - every place a VPH&TH runner takes in front of a runner from another club means potentially more points and a better standing in the results.  It's really not as far away as you might think.  More details will be given nearer the time via email and on the club noticeboard.  Remember the club and bar will be closed on Assembly League nights.
 
Sunday 4th September - 10:30am - Victoria Park - Middlesex 10k
A fast, high quality county-level 10k race, facilitated by the club on behalf of Middlesex AC.  More details on the Middlesex AA website at http://middlesexaa.org.uk. As usual there is a chance for members to enter or to take part by assisting on the day.  Please contact me or Major Carr if you can get invovled.  Closing date for entries is 27th August or when entry limits have been reached.
 
Thursday September 22nd - Shortly after 7pm
The annual Club Championships series kicks off with the 1 Mile race in Victoria Park , also known as the Flowers Mile after a former club member.  Run around the classic one mile course adjacent to the clubhouse in Victoria Park.  This fast race is over in a flash but great fun.  Due to low light levels at this time of the year get to the club well before 7pm changed and ready to run as the race will start soon after.  You will also need to register and collect a number to assist with timekeeping.
Sat/Sun 24th/25th September-6 Stage Road Relays - Aldershot
The club is looking to put together teams to participate in this event.  The Women's event (senior and veterans) is on Saturday and the men's the next day.  Robb Birchley is putting together the women's team, but we are looking forsomeone to lead the men's team.  Those who have taken part in the 12 stage will know how much fun it can be - expect similar at the 6 stage only with less hanging around.
 
Saturday 15th October - All day - First Aid Course
There will be a first aid course held at the club on the above date and club members who are interested in attending should get in touch with me, Philippa or Mick Cairns.  It is being run by Triathlon England so the focus will be from a Triathlon-persepctive but the offer in open to all club members. The club would cover the costs of this but in return participants would be expected to support club activities in the future.
 
Thursday 20th October 2011 - VPH & TH AC Club Annual General Meeting - 8:30pm
Advanced noticed for the club AGM which will take place in the Clubhouse (St Augustine's Hall, Cadogan Terrage, London E9).  A detailed agenda will follow nearer the time.  In the meanwhile please bear in mind there will be a number of board positions available due to current Directors stepping down including Women's Road & XC Captain and Chairperson.  The meeting is your chance to hear more about what the club has been up to during the year and to review in more detail the finances of the club.  The annual accounts should be available to view in the near future here: http://www.charity-commission.gov.uk/Showcharity/RegisterOfCharities/CharityWithoutPartB.aspx?RegisteredCharityNumber=1091712&SubsidiaryNumber=0  or email me for a copy.
 
Don't forget Autumn means Cross Country season begins too (and your shoes have only just dried out from last season).  More details and dates to follow :-)
 
:x lovestruckLastly, congratulations to Club Members Susan Leese & David Wilkey who said I DO (run) at Camden Town Hall recently - we wish you both a long and happy marriage together
 
So, lots going on with your club - well you wouldn't want to be stuck indoors would you? 
 
Simeon
Men's Captain - Road & XC Running
 
p.s. TWITTER and BLOG: all this news and more is available at the VPH TH AC blog at:http://vphthac.blogspot.com/ and follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/vphthac.  Thanks to Joe Feltham, Stanley Greenhalgh and others for setting up and managing these.

Sunday 24 July 2011

Victoria Park Project Newsletter - July 2011

You can read the latest Victoria Park Re-development Project Newsletter here. There's lots of information on the works in the park, as well as events and volunteering information.

Saturday 2 July 2011

July Newsletter


Next Club 5 mile Handicap - Thursday 30th June, 7pm
The next 5 mile will be held in the park next Thursday, June 30th.  Be at the clubhouse by 7pm for a 7:15pm start.  Results will be posted on the club noticeboard.

Assembly League Race #4 (approx 5k)- Thursday 7th July, from 7pm
The next race in the series is the week after the handicap, back for the second race near the Dome (The o2 Arena).  We've had a great turn out and on the-day scores at the last two races to make up for the wobbly start at Beckenham.  However, we are still lying in 6th place for both men's teams and 5th & 3rd for the women's teams.  A good show at the next two races will get us higher up the table and in a chance for some prizes.  Get to the Dome by 7 in time to get a number and warm up.  Remember the facilities are limited there.  Note, the August race in Victoria Park is not held until Thursday 18th August.

Orion Harriers - Forest Five Mile Series – July 2nd and August 6th, 10am Start
A reminder there are still two races left in local club Orion Harriers’ annual Forest Five series of races in Epping Forest .  These races are very easy to get to, scenic, well organised, good fun and a great start to your Summer weekends.  A lot of club members have competed in these in recent years.  Details below:

Full details and entry form available from link from Orion website: http://www.orionharriers.org.uk
or direct from here: http://homepage.ntlworld.com/robert.jousiffe/oriongrandprix/2011summerseriesinfo.htm

Women's Southern League: Women needed for Match at on Saturday July 9th
Women are needed to run 800m, 1500m and/or 3000m at the next meeting which is at our home track down at Mile End stadium.  A call out for those who have run for us before or would like to compete for the club for the first time.  Contact Rob Birchley or me via this email address.

Eton Manor - Open 5km Race - Sunday 10th July, 10am
Another reminder about Local rivals Eton Manor's Open 5k race.  The race starts from the Waterworks centre on Lea Bridge Road .  There are prizes fro first three men and women and for the winners in Veterans categories.  A good chance to have a blast on a familiar course, you never know, you could be in with the chance of a prize - entry is just £4 to club members if you sign up in advance..  More details and entry forms at www.eton-manor.com

Club Summer Barbeque - Saturday 20th August, from 6:30pm
A date for your diary is the annual summer party / barbeque. No cost of entry this year, please bring your own food to share and put on the barbeque.  The usual salads/breads/desserts will be provided (or kindly donated!).  The bar will be stocked and remain open until we can drink no more.  More info to follow. (note, this is the same day as the London Pride 10k also being held in the park)

Thank you
Lastly, a big thank you to those who helped out at the Keep Your Eye on The Ball 5k and 10k held in the park earlier in June. This event raises a lot of money in support of men’s cancer charity Everyman.  To all those who came along on the day to help me set up and run the event it is appreciated.  I had the following note from the event organiser:

Hello Simeon
This is just a quick email to say thank you, and the other members of the Harriers Club, for all your help with Everyman's run last Sunday.
We really couldn't make the event the success it is without your help.  We're delighted to be able to offer a donation to the club and I'll start this process when I'm back in the office next week.
Thank you, once again, for your continued support and I'm sure we'll be in contact soon.  Kind regards
 Karen McDonnell
Sports Events Manager
The Institute of Cancer Research & Everyman

Sunday 29 May 2011

PBs coming thick and fast

Congratulations on the latest personal bests:

  • Perri Shakes-Drayton set a new 400m PB at the Rome Diamond League. Result at 19:39 on the BBC news feed.
  • 15 year old Billy Hutton set a new PB of 2.00.6 at the British Milers Club meeting in Eltham.
  • Paul Martelletti won the 3000m race at the Cambridge Harriers Open by over 35 seconds in a new 3 sec PB of 8.30.79, as well as setting a course record at the Myra Garrett 10k in Danson Park a few days before.

Club BBQ

  • Bank Holiday Monday 30th May 2011
  • 14:30 onwards
  • Next to the White Lodge, Victoria Park, London



CALLING ALL CLUB (including new) MEMBERS

COME HAVE FUN IN THE SUN (hopefully sun!).


As long as the weather holds up we'll be meeting for some drinks and games on the side of the park next to the White Lodge, and later in the afternoon we'll fire up the barbie in the club garden.  It's a bring your own type affair, so come armed with your favourite afternoon tipple and no more than a fiver's worth of food which we'll cook up and share around.  Let Rob Pitkethly or Stanley know if you want to come, as they will provide the basics for the barbie and ensure we have a variety of games (of the semi-active, rounders/frisbee variety) to play. If people so desire and have the staying power, the bar will get opened in the evening as well.

PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU ARE COMING. 


See you there :-)

Sunday 22 May 2011

May Newsletter

Hello all, another update on things going on at the club over the next few weeks.

Monthly Club Handicap - Thursday 26th May - Starts 7:15
This should be taking place as usual.  Bear in mind that the ongoing works in the park continue to disrupt the route. We'll do whatever we can to get around that and hold the handicap as usual.  Get to the club in good time for a 7:15pm start.

Bank Holiday Monday 30th May - BUPA London 10,000m followed by Barbeque
If you are not running, come and support your fellow members competing in the BUPA 10,000m race.  Race starts at 11am, more info here.

In the afternoon  there will be a gathering of club members making the most of the last day of the bank holiday weekend by partaking in our second favourite pastime.  As long as the weather holds up we'll be meeting for some drinks and games on the side of the park next to the White Lodge, and later in the afternoon we'll fire up the barbie in the club garden.  If you've got nothing planned then come and join us.  It's a bring your own type affair, so come armed with your favourite afternoon tipple and no more than a fiver's worth of food which we'll cook up and share around.  Let Rob Pitkethly or Stanley know if you want to come, as they will provide the basics for the barbie and ensure we have a variety of games (of the semi-active, rounders/frisbee variety) to play. If people so desire and have the staying power, the bar will get opened in the evening as well.

Assembly League Race - Thursday 2nd June
After the May race at the O2 we have picked up a little in the points stakes but need as many members out to run as possible if we are to have any attempt at repeating last season's successes - the club is hosting this race so no excuse for not turning up!  The race is currently scheduled for this date but bear in mind there could be a last minute change of plans due to the ongoing disruption in the park - I will make sure members know as soon as possible if plans change.

Keep Your Eye on the Ball 5k and 10k - Sunday 5th June - Helpers Needed
The annual Keep Your Eye on The Ball Run in aid of the Institute of Cancer Research. This race has been run in the park the last few years and the club has always been proud to help out with this event and support the charity that organises it, we'll be supporting this charity by hosting the event.

There are two races, a 10k and a 5k and both race will start very close to one another around 10:30am, a change to previous events.

I'll be there for most of the event but if anyone can help around the event, even for just an hour it would be appreciated - hopefully this would fit in with those of you planning a long run on Sunday. We particularly need assistance with setting out the course and start line and also marshalling out on the course. In previous years there have been one or two goodie bags for those who've helped out - can't make any promises but..  Anyone can help, however new a member you may be - please don't leave it to the same people, it will only require a little of your time. As well as being for good causes, these races help us raise the profile of the club.  Let me know if you can support.

Barts & The London 10k - Sunday 26th June - Helpers also needed
Another race we host and also popular with members who compete is the Barts 10k (formerly London Chest Hospital).  The club has over a 20 year history of support and involvement with this race.  Again, we will be hosting this and will need some helpers, as we do above.  Contact Philippa if you can support.

More info here.

That's it for now, enjoy the good weather, keep hydrated, train hard and get involved :-)

Simeon
Men's Road & XC Captain