Walking Section Report 12th October 2009

Team Victory at the Lee Valley

Ilford AC sent a team to Saturday afternoon's 5 Kilometres road walk at the Lee Valley Stadium in Ponders End.   In pleasant conditions the field set out of an undulating and twisting 1K circuit.   Eventual winner, and course specialist NICK SILVESTER (Aldershot) and STEPHEN CRANE disputed the lead for much of the distance on offer until the Hampshire man pulled ahead over the closing stages to win in 24 minutes and 58 seconds with Crane claiming 2nd place in 25.09.   Just off the pace was a confident PETE RYAN who easily claimed 3rd spot with an excellent walk which saw him timed-in at 25.49.   4th placed STEVE UTTLEY had very much an isolated race in 4th place, which was never in doubt as he clocked 26.56.   Ilford's team were confirmed as victors when STEVE ALLEN pounded over the finishing line to fill 10th position in 28.56, so banishing the experience of a disqualification on his last outing on the same course.

Also walked : 

26th Alan O'Rawe      33.28

In the ladies race recent signing LIZ STOCKER came 7th, clocking 33.25 in a quality line-up, while young HELEN CROFT won the Junior 2K in 16.18.

        Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 5th October 2009

Walking Section Report 29th September 2009

'Ilford walkers appeared in both Birmingham and Darlington last week.
The Civil Service Championships were held in Birmingham's "Tally Ho" park on Wednesday over 10kms in fairly ideal conditions and, after a hard fought battle for second place fought out over 6 laps of a park course in Edgbaston, Steve Uttley managed to edge out John Hall on the finishing line, both recording the same time of 54-17.  Steve has now clocked up over a dozen frame finishes in this Championship without managing a victory.  On this occasion multiple winner Dave Turner of the Post Office was the victor once again.  Ilford's Bob Dobson, a previous winner of this title on a number of occasions, finished 10th on this occasion.  Ilford's Lesley Richardson, making her first walking appearance for some time, finished 9th in the Women's 5km event.

On the following Saturday Ilford was strongly represented on the
Southern team for the Inter-Area track match held at Darlington.
Ilford's Phil Barnard took second place in 50-09 with Steve Uttley 5th
in 55-17, on a warm and sunny afternoon. Sadly Ilford second claim
member Steven Crane was disqualified for a technical infringement with
less than 100m to go, while lying in 3rd place, which cost the South
valuable points and contributed to their narrow loss to the North in the
overall standings.'

Steve Uttley
for Ilford AC Walkling Section

Walking Section Report 21st September 2009

UNIFORM PERFORMANCE

Ilford's STEVE ALLEN retained his title as London Post Office Walking Champion on a hot sweaty Saturday afternoon around 6 twisting circuits of the Clerkenwell streets.  The 6 miles race is open to all current and former Royal Mail employees.  Although no longer a postman Allen still had to don a postman's uniform and cap to fulfil the entry requirements, and this extra burden proved a testing one in such oppressive conditions.  The task was made no easier by long stretches of road works along the course which tested both competitors and race marshals patience to the limit!   Allen was untroubled as he won by a distance, in 55 minutes and 25 seconds, despite carrying an injury which he made light of.   Ilford's MICKY SUTTON came 3rd in 59.20 and most certainly would have fared better had he not suffered illness in mid-race.  He slowed down, sweating profusely as heat took its toll on an athlete who was racing only for the 2nd time since completing the UK 100 Miles Championship in July.    Sutton somehow managed to get this setback out of his system over the closing stages and even finished with a flourish!   Sutton's latest appearance was at "Rankin Live" - an exhibition staged by the society and portrait photographer at Truman Brewery during August.   Sutton was hung on display as a full frontal naked male model!

Ilford's walking captain Dave Sharpe clocked 59.10 as a guest competitor, finishing just ahead of Sutton - but as he'd entered only in guest capacity was not eligible for awards.  Sharpe spoke for all the competitors when he said what a hard afternoon's work it had been just to get around!

The race was held from the giant Mount Pleasant Sorting office, which was closed owing to a strike and pickets manned the gates.  However dispensation had been given to competitors and officials to enter the building for the 48th staging of this long established sporting contest.

Coming-up :

Tuesday : The funeral of Barbara Croft, Michael's mother, is to be held at 12 noon in St.Mary Magdalen Church, Great Burstead (CM11 2TR) and afterwards at the Four Seasons public house in Victoria Road, Laindon (SS15 6AW).

Wednesday : the cheque for £2503, raised in the name of the late Laurence Dordoy, is to be presented to St.Francis Hospice at Havering-Atte-Bower Village (north of Romford) at 12 noon.

Saturday : We wish all success to those Ilford AC members who have been selected to represent the South in the annual Inter-Area meeting at Doncaster.

Sunday : Please don't forget the Ilford 5K run and walk (where you can walk it - and beat many of the runners) in Valentines Park and the Charity walk afterwards.  We have some of our walkers already entered for the walk, so, let's have a few more!   If not entering, helpers are needed.  Run/Walk at 10am and Charity Walk at 11am.  For Charity Walk info please contact Olly Browne on 10702-557109.

           Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

 Walking Section Report 14th September 2009

NOW IS THE HOUR

Ilford AC contested the annual Race Walking Association's Southern Area One Hour Championship at Dartford Track on a hot sunny Saturday afternoon.  The format requires entrants to cover as much distance on the track as they can in 60 minutes.

For STEPHEN CRANE it was a "red letter day" as he recorded 3 personal best performances in one race.   With race leader - South London student ALEX WRIGHT - just too far ahead to be challenged, CRANE was involved in a tight battle with recent Ilford signing PHIL BARNARD.  Barnard got the better of things for much of the race as he powered towards an impressive 11,761 metres to fill 3rd spot.   Crane put in his best work over the closing stages with a fast finish taking custody of 2nd spot after 45 minutes.   His 2nd place come with a personal best 11,880 metres covered - but along the way he'd also clocked pb's at 10,000 metres (50 minutes and 24 seconds) and 7 Miles (57.10).    STEVE UTTLEY came 5th with a faultless display recording 10,646 metres, while Ilford won the team honours for a 5th consecutive year when dependable DAVE SHARPE filled 11th spot with 9,360 metres behind him.  However Ilford were fortunate in that a number of high profile athletes retired during the race including 2 times former winner NICK SILVESTER (Aldershot)and much fancied TREVOR JONES (Hillingdon).  It was Sharpe's return to action having been out with illness since August 1st.  A rewarding afternoon saw Barnard collect his first team medal in Ilford AC's colours.   In 13th place overall and 4th lady to finish was Ilford AC debutante LIZ STOCKER who covered an impressive 8,685 metres.   Race winner Wright clocked 12,106 metres so becoming only the 2nd walker in the race's history to have bettered 12 Kilometres - Ilford's SCOTT DAVIS being the other.   Scott was away on more important business - he was with his coach DAVE KATES tacking the Swiss 50K in Zurich.   Any account of this race will be circulated as soon as received.

We thank injured MICK BARNBROOK, SHARON & BONZO for coming along to Dartford to support our team, and also to ALAN O'RAWE who did great service on a busy water station.

Next Saturday (19th September) STEVE ALLEN will be defending his title as the London 6 Miles-in-Uniform Champion at Mount Pleasant (2pm).   Also in contention will be MICKY SUTTON who intends racing for the 2nd time since becoming a Centurion at Newmarket in July.   And...DAVE SHARPE has entered for the first time since he was a postman in the 70s.  Dave has done well in this race...many decades ago...and is entering under a rule which permits ex-Royal Mail employees to enter providing they can get themselves rigged out in a uniform in which to race.  Good luck to all 3.  Supporters are made welcome (free beer afterwards)

Finally you'll all have had details of Mrs.Barbara Croft's funeral service on Tuesday 22nd September (12 noon) at St.Mary's Church, Great Burstead (and afterwards at the Four Seasons public house in Laindon).

             Issued by llford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Clockwork Precision

Ilford's SCOTT DAVIS tackled the Swiss 50 Kilometres Championship at Zurich on Sunday.   In top class Continental company, the reigning UK 50K Champion held back in the opening stages and then opened up having the distinction of covering each of five 10K sections in a faster time than the previous...a feat rarely seen in such long distance races where fading is commonplace.   Davis came 2nd in 4 hours 20 minutes and 22 seconds which propels him up the UK all-time rankings.   He was only headed by Hungarian International Zoltan Czukor who clocked 4.14.45.

Should any more detailed reports come out of Switzerland, these will be made available.

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 2nd September 2009

Walking Section Report 1st September 2009

Walking Section Report 17th August 2009

FORTUNES DOWN IN THE VALLEY

Ilford sent a strong squad to the Lee Valley Stadium on a deceptively hot Saturday afternoon where the main event was a 20 Kilometres race over a somewhat boring and repetitive 1 kilometre lap up-and-down a service road at through a car park with tight turns to boot!

Ilford needed good performance as they currently trail hosts Enfield & Harringey AC in the Enfield League, which Ilford won in 2008.  But it was not to be as things didn't go the way of leading lights STEVE ALLEN and DAVE KATES, who both fell foul of the judges around the halfway mark.   However 2 other Club members did see the finishing line; and for STEPHEN CRANE it was another personal best performance as he doggedly trailed eventual winner TREVOR JONES (Steyning AC).  Jones broke the tape in 1 hour 47 minutes and 57 seconds to repeat his 20K win over Crane just 2 weeks ago at Basildon, but this time his rival was a lot closer.   Until 3 circuits to go there was nothing to choose between them until Jones's gradual acceleration secured victory.  Crane clocked 1.48.15 for 2nd place.   The pair were well clear of all others.   In 4th place came ever dependable STEVE UTTLEY in 2.01.45.

On the same card, Ilford's MIKE HINTON and ALAN O'RAWE opted to enter to 10 Kilometres time trail where both worked hard in the heat to clock 62.29 and 72.48 respectively.

         Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382

Walking Section Report 15th August 2009

ILFORD GIVE 'EM THE OLD 1-2

Ilford walkers contested the last of this season's 5-race series of evening 5 Miles' Walks around the Queen's Carriageway at Battersea Park on a hot and sticky Tuesday.   On a flat course, but with a deceptive camber, it was leading lady walker SANDRA BROWN (Surrey Walking Club) who set a hot pace over the opening half-mile, before Ilford's STEVE UTTLEY took control and opened up a good 40 yards lead, which he held well into the 2nd lap of the 3 on offer.     Towards the end of lap 2 club colleague STEVE ALLEN,  who had won the previous month's race on the same course, overtook and stode ahead to open a 60 yards advantage.    Throughout the final circuit Uttley dug deep into his reserves and closed the gap to a mere 6 paces before the finishing line was reached by Allen in 44 minutes and 55 seconds with a fast-closing Uttley just 2 seconds in arrears to claim 2nd place.

In 7th place MIKE HINTON clocked 50.07 after working hard to reach fast-starting rival PETER HANNELL (Surrey) who was 6th in 50 minutes' exactlly.    At the Series Presentation, Hinton was rewarded with joint 2nd place overall (shared with Belgrave Harrier PAUL KING)  for consistently scoring high points over all 5 qualifying races.
         Issued by Ilford AC Walkling Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 7th August 2009

TWO IN THE FRAME

Ilford AC had a trio of members contesting Tuesday evening's Open 3,000 metres walking race at Ashtons Track, which was the "curtain raiser" of Woodford Green's graded meeting.   In warm conditions it was a lady walker who showed a clean pair of heels to allcomers; as former International AMY HALES from Chelmsford was never troubled in winning with a time of 15 minutes and 35 seconds as the leading positions became "processional" with STEVE UTTLEY claiming 2nd place in 15.51.   Indeed his time was worthy of praise, as coming straight from work in haste, he changed and then started without warming-up.   Completing the frame was STEVE ALLEN with 16.19 on the stopwatch.   Further down the order MICKY SUTTON made a return to racing for the first time since completing 100 Miles 3 weeks' ago.  Stiffness was still in his body as he grimaced his way around the track to fill 9th spot in 22.45.

         Issued by Ilford AC Walkling Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 3rd August 2009

COUNTY TITLES GAINED

Ilford AC contested the annual Essex County 20 Kilometres Walking Championship on Saturday afternoon, around 11 fairly flat circuits of a near deserted Basildon Industrial Estate.

Pride of place went to ever improving youngster STEPHEN CRANE, who was never troubled on his way to clocking 1 hours 57 minutes and 6 seconds to win the Essex individual title.   Crane's time was his second 20K personal best of the season.    Holding down 2nd spot for most of the afternoon was back-to-form STEVE ALLEN, who by his own admission lost speed over the closing 2 laps owing to a lack of race walking training - Allen having been appearing in running races for most of the summer thus far.   As he began to fade, former event winner STEVE UTTLEY moved up to claim the silver medal 2.03.09 as he finished with a flourish.  Allen was still rewarded with a respectable time as he struck bronze in 2.06.52 so enabling Ilford to also take the team title.    Stalwart BOB DOBSON pounded out 2.14.19 for 9th spot and DAVE SHARPE was 12th in 2.35.32, which was commendable as he was indisposed on the start line with a stomach upset and admitted afterwards that he should not have started at all!   A bonus for all was that the event avoided heavy rain that fell before and after the event - indeed what came, while the walking action was on failed to send nearby cricketers and bowls players running for cover, so the "Iron Men of the Highway" pressed on regardless!

A disappointment was that Ilford's new signing, PHIL BARNARD was forced to scratch owing to injury, in what would have been his Club debut.

      Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 30th July 2009

PARK VICTORY

Ilford's STEVE ALLEN won by a distance in Tuesday evening's Veterans' 5 Miles' walking race around 3 circuits of Battersea's Park's Queen's Carriageway.   From the "off" noted fast starter PETER HANNELL (Surrey Walking Club) dictated matters before becoming the victim of his own fast pace.   Allen overtook and, from then on, saw only the empty road ahead unwinding before him.   On a flat course, but with a deceptive camber, Allen broke the tape in an excellent 45 minutes and 22 seconds being well ahead of 2nd placed CARL LAWTON (Belgrave Harriers) in 47.47.  On the card running and walking races were staged simultaneously - and Allen was so fast at times, he passed runners despite himself being in walking mode.  Also in good form was MIKE HINTON who worked hard to claim 4th spot in a class field, with a sprint finish against former Ilford 2nd Claim member PETER CRANE.   Hinton clocked 49.25 with Crane just a second in arrears.

        Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 27th July 2009

IRYAN'S EXPRESS

After having not entered any track races since 2001, experienced road walker PETER RYAN stepped on to a track for the 2nd time within a fortnight when he contested the London Inter Club Challenge 5,000 metres walking race at Parliament Hill Fields on a baking hot Saturday afternoon.  With an 11.45am start, the 26 strong field were literally performing under the mid-day sun!

From the off Ilford's DAVE SHARPE led them around the first 2 bends and into the back straight before more established early pacemaker ALAN ELLAM (Enfield)took up pace making duties.   He led well into lap 2 of the 12-and-half circuits on offer before PETER RYAN emphatically took control of the race.   So much so that when he sped past the 2,000 metres mark it was in a personal best time of 9 minutes and 57 seconds, and pressed on at pace.    With 2 laps to go 2nd place JOHN HALL (Belgrave Harriers) had abandoned his thought of a victory and had, in his mind, settled for 2nd as his rival was 100 metres ahead.   But then the unthinkable happened and Ryan began to fall slightly off his demanding pace and the wily Hall spotted an opportunity to press the pedal.   Hall clawed back the deficit by finding "something from somewhere" and broke the tape in 25 minutes and 51 seconds, with Ryan claiming 2nd just 13 seconds adrift in 26.04.

In 3rd spot, former event and track winner STEVE UTTLEY walked a sound race, as he overtook others who had wilted in the heat, to complete the frame in 27.16.   It was commendable as Uttley was not feeling 100% and only made a late decision to appear.   Equally commendable was STEVE ALLEN's remarkable 5th spot in 27.42 which he claimed after only grabbing a short nap after working a night shift!

The race for 12 and 13th spots, between Ilford stalwarts DAVE SHARPE and MIKE HINTON ended in confusion.  Both were racing closely when they passed "the bell" - but an official forgot to ring it, so both thought they had 2 circuits ahead of them.   As they came around next time, officials called on them to stop walking as they'd finished racing.  Neither sprinted to the line as both believed that another lap beckoned.    Sharpe was 12th in 30.35 and Hinton 13th in 30.36.

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382

Walking Section Report 14th July 2009

BACK ON TRACK

Ilford's PETER RYAN, a traditional "road walker" who prefers racing on tarmacadam to synthetic tracks, stepped onto one for the first time since 2001 at the delightfully situated Hemel Hempstead stadium on a sunny but surprisingly blowy Monday evening.   Ryan was Ilford's walker in the opening event on Southern Veterans Track & Field League card over the rarely-raced distance of 2,000 metres.    Clear favourite, former Commonwealth Games walker MARK EASTON, shot off into his expected and eventual winning lead...however Easton was only appearing in guest capacity, leaving the true winner's position up for grabs.   After an early stiff challenge from talented lady walker HELEN MIDDLETON (Enfield & Harringey) Ryan was untroubled as he took the honours in 10 minutes and 7 seconds, well ahead of his nearest rival - Barnet's STEVE ALLEN.   Looking strong and confident throughout, he would have ducked under 10 minutes but for a stiff wind along the back straight.    Afterwards the victor stated that he so enjoyed his race that he looked forward to being on track again!

         Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382

Walking Section Report 13th July 2009I

GREAT SCOTT

LFORD AC NATIONAL CHAMPIONS - AGAIN

Ilford's exponents of ultra distance were to the fore at the weekend's National 100 Miles Walking Championships which were held around Newmarket's Rowley Mile racecourse.   The course was an ever-twisting, but flat, 50 circuits with action commencing at 3pm on Saturday afternoon - the starter being former Champion jockey Richard Dunwoody MBE.   The day was overcast but warm with many competitors opting to don singlets. That was to change dramatically into the night as 5 hours of hard rainfall coupled with cold winds decimated the field, leaving only the hardy to press on towards completion of 100 miles.  Those surviving the night were rewarded with a fine Sunday for racing.

Ilford had 3 men on the start line, one being former International KEVIN MARSHALL with experience in many such races and also of longer ones than the distance on offer.   He took it all in his stride and rattled off mile-after-mile, even having a confident look during the heaviest of rain.   But by mid-Sunday morning he began to feel the strain and took a break.   As he sat in his chair beside the course he he gave the impression of one about to call it a day.  But encouragement came from an unlikely source - in Surrey Walking Club's IAN STATTER, who had won the corresponding race in 2000 on the same course.  His motivational words hit home resulting in Marshall rising from his chair and powering on purposefully towards a finish in 22 hours and 38 seconds.   It got him a high 9th position, and in a class field containing several leading Continental walkers.  He was the 3rd UK athlete home - so gaining the National bronze medal.

Next Ilford man to finish was postman MICKY SUTTON who has covered the distance several times in endurance runs, but never as a race walker, this being his 2nd attempt at completing such an event.    Back in 2007 at Battersea Park he had retired at 50 miles - this year he was determined to go the distance and always looked like doing so.   Sutton's problem was deep blisters which slowed down his pace and, with a 24 hours deadline approaching, he had to put pain aside.   Sutton claimed 26th spot in 23.45.18 despite having a hemorrhoids operation only 4 days' beforehand.   Sutton now becomes a member of The Centurions, an exclusive Club open only to those who have completed a 100 Miles walking race in under 24 hours.  Formed in 1911 it still only has 1076 members.

The Ilford team were closed in by another experienced distance man OLLY BROWNE a former Walking Section Captain.   He was racing the distance for a 6th time and he went on to complete this epic distance for his 5th time.   Success was in doubt as Browne suffered a painful ankle injury and swelling as early as mile 10.  But with gritted teeth he soldiered on with determination to finish 28th in 23.49.31.

Ilford won the National Team Championship, being their 2nd such success in 2009 having win the National 20 Kilometres Championship at Shrewsbury in April.  However the day ended in anti-climax as they went home empty-handed for Redcar, last year's winners, had not returned the trophy.  Richard Dunwoody MBE was on hand again...this time to present the awards.

The National 5,000 Metres Track Championship at Birmingham on Sunday, giving details of a commendable win by Ilford protagonist Scott Davis, is covered in a separate Press Report penned by Dave Kates.

       Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 6th July 2009

BACK ON HIS ROUND

Ilford AC's talented runner and race walker returned to the latter code after a long absence since last November, when he lined-up in the National Postmen's 10 kilometres-in-Uniform Walking Championships at a sunny York on Sunday.  Competitors race in Royal Mail uniforms and another oddity is that, by tradition, this event's social function occurs on the eve of the race instead of afterwards!   Allen, who normally beats the hour for this distance, had to settle with 61 minutes and 22 seconds which secured him 4th spot.   The slightly slower time being entirely down to his race walking inactivity.

Next Sunday the action switches to the National 100 Miles at Newmarket's Rowley Mile racecourse, where Ilford have a quartet on the card.  MICKY SUTTON is attempting to complete the distance for the first time, having previously fallen short in 2007 at Battersea Park, while experienced OLLY BROWNE, KEVIN MARSHALL and 2nd claimer ED SHILLABEER will all be confident of further success over this epic distance.   Steve Allen will be among a number of Club members who will be appearing in supporting events over lesser distances.

           Issue By Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 22nd June 2009

Walking Section Report 10th June 2009

PIPPED BY OLD RIVAL

On a cold and uninviting Tuesday evening, Woodford Green with Essex Ladies AC staged the opening card in their long established series of evening Open Graded meetings.   The curtain raiser was the 3,000 metres' walking race, which saw a silence observed before the "off" in respect of Ilford AC member Laurence Dordoy, whose funeral service had been held earlier in the day.

There was a clear favourite - Canvey Islander PHIL BARNARD who stormed around to claim victory in 14 minutes and 11 seconds leaving most attention focused on an enthralling battle to complete the frame positions.   Disputing these places were old rivals JOHN HALL (Belgrave Harriers) and Ilford's STEVE UTTLEY.  There was little to chose between them for only inside the final circuit Hall managed to establish a small lead which was good enough to secure 2nd spot in 15.15, with Uttley claiming 3rd in 15.26.    Captain DAVE SHARPE walked to form filling 6th position in 17.31.

            Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 1st June 2009

                                                            LAURENCE DORDOY RIP

Ilford's Walking Section were in deep sorrow following the death of one of their most active and popular athletes on Saturday morning.
LAURENCE DORDOY's motorbike was in collision with a car on his way home from work at the Britvic Depot in Beckton to his Gidea Park home on Friday, causing serious injuries which resulted in his death on the following day. 

In his two spells with Ilford AC he earned many awards, he showed promise and talent right from his earliest involvement in athletics.   He was a former winner of the coveted English Schools Walking Title.  In later years he raced over a variety of distances, being equally at home over short track sprints and in much longer road walks.  Only 6 weeks before his death he won a gold team medal in the National 20K Kilometers Championship at Shrewsbury.  At the age of 53 the always fit Laurence still gave a wonderful account of himself on race days, often at the expense of competitors half his age!  He was immensely popular at Ilford AC, and in the sport at large, and will be truly missed.

Keeping you all informed : We will let you know when/where the funeral is to be held.    To keep you further informed both DAVE SHARPE and STEVE UTTLEY have announced their intention not to race in Saturday's BMAF Kilometres Championship at Northampton Racecourse.

GEORGE NIBRE
This former Ilford AC race walking international has suffered a heart attack and spent last week in Basildon Hospital before being transferred to Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford for an operation to insert a stent in an artery.   George had been feeling unwell for a few weeks with indigestion prior to this occurrence.   After a week as an inpatient he's now back home and resting.   We all wish genial George well as he recovers from his serious setback


         Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 26th May 2009

                                                                  BANK HOLIDAY BRONZE

Ilford's SCOTT DAVIES represented Essex in the annual Inter Counties' Championship at Bedford Track on Bank Holiday Monday.   In a quality 3,000 metres' field he worked hard to claim the bronze medal in 13 minutes and 21 seconds, beaten to the silver by precocious Surrey junior ALEX WRIGHT who clocked 13.08.

        Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 23rd May 2009

                                                                  ON TRACK FOR SUCCESS

Ilford AC contested the London Inter Club Challenge 3,000 Metres Walking race at the Lee Valley Stadium (Ponders End) on a hot Saturday afternoon.   The star athlete was Ilford's SCOTT DAVIS who started as the track record holder for the distance.   Davis was untroubled as he led from start to finish clocking 13 minutes and 33 seconds, just a tad outside of his record.   It was a good performance considering the lack of serious opposition in his wake, 2nd place being claimed by a comeback making NICK SILVESTER of Aldershot in 14.15.    In 4th spot came STEPHEN CRANE who had a remarkable build-up to the event; for he race walked the 20 Kilometres from his Chadwell Heath home to Ponders End as part of his training routine for upcoming longer distance races.   Despite his pre-race efforts he still clocked a creditable 15.18.   In close order, consistent STEVE UTTLEY claimed 5th position in 15.42.

In 9th spot came DAVE SHARPE in 17 minutes exactly after a good tussle with former European and Commonwealth Games walker AMOS SEDDON of the hosting Enfield Club, who was timed in at 17.13.   Another enjoying a battle with a former great was MIKE HINTON, 14th in 18.34 just 3 seconds behind ex-Welsh International KEN BOBBETT (Hillingdon AC) who came 13th in 18.31.  Not far behind was LAURENCE DORDOY who filled 16th place in 18.48.

         Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 16th May 2009

Venue : Ashtons Track, Woodford Bridge.

1.  Stephen Crane     Ilf   52.10.80
2.  Phil Barnard      CP    52.57.55
3.  John Hall         Ltn   54.23.62
4.  Steve Uttley      Ilf   56.48.10 
5.  Laurence Dordoy   Ilf   61.05.91
6.  Mark Culshaw      Bel   61.41.83
7.  Chris Bent        Pit   62.02.21
8.  Maureen Noel      Bel   64.04.48

8 started and finished.  Conditions sunny but blustery.

Essex County Championship : 1. S.Crane, 2. P.Barnard, 3. S.Uttley.

Defending champion Phil Barnard changed as the marksman was assembled the field then strode into an immediate and impressive lead, despite commencing his efforts with no warm up whatsoever.   He was eventually overtaken by Stephen Crane who clawed back the advantage with determination before powering on to victory.  The Castle Point man was indisposed during the closing stages and even came to a standstill at one point.  But made of sterner stuff, he got going again to claim a silver medal.   Steve Uttley, lapped by Loughton 2nd Claimer John Hall near the end, never really got going but still struck bronze.   LAURENCE DORDOY showed that his injury is behind him as he only just missed out on a 2nd successive sub-60 minutes 10,000 Metres track finishing time.

Essex County's Walking Secretary Ray Pearce sighed that, with only 5 Essex qualified athletes racing, it was the worst supported Essex County AAA 10,000 Metres of all time - even going back to the event's 7 Miles days (when Ray once won it) before metric distances appeared.

A very experienced Judges Panel with IAAF top man PETER MARLOW as Chief.  Among the judges was Peter CASSIDY, RAY PEARCE and PAULINE WILSON.   Half the field ended up on the board, with 3 living dangerously on 2 crosses.   A word for RON WALLWORK who came all the way from Newmarket to act as Judges runner.    Dave AINSWORTH acted as commentator.   TONY PERKINS,BRIAN & PAM FICKEN were on hand to give support and encouragement.   DAVE SHARPE, who rarely misses any Essex League race, had to scratch owing to his wife's illness.  We wish the good lady a swift recovery.

Announcement : Peter Marlow and Ron Wallwork have announced that a 50K Open race is to be held at Newmarket on Saturday July 11th in conjunction with the RWA 100 Miles (as was the case in 2007 in Battersea Park).   Peter explained that with the Bradford 50K folding, there is now only 1 50K walk on in the country, and there needs to be more.  Hence there is to be another one at Newmarket on July 11th.

Next Saturday May 23rd it's the LICC/Enfield League 3,000 Metres Walk at 12noon - Lee Valley Stadium.  Lets go for a full turnout.




Dave Ainsworth
01708-377382

Walking Section Report 11th May 2009

Walking Section Report 5th May 2009

                                                 ILFORD GIVE 'EM THE OLD ONE-TWO

Two of Ilford's leading lights lined up for the well-established and testing Pednor Open 5 Miles, which takes its entrants around a difficult one lap circuit in the Chiltern Hills.   Leader from the "off" was Leicester's MARK WALL, but racing for the 4th time in a busy long weekend, he soon ran out of steam and "hit the wall" early on, so allowing PETER RYAN to head the field - a position that he held to the finishing line which he crossed in 44 minutes and 6 seconds.   STEVE UTTLEY, like Ryan a former event winner, passed the fading Wall and got to within a few paces of Ryan until the latter's emphatic 8 minutes and 18 seconds last mile ensured victory by 60 metres with his Ilford colleague just 25 seconds in arrears.   Ilford have provided a number of past victors at this event, but never before a 1-2.

On Sunday afternoon's Victoria Park Open 5K, LAURENCE DORDOY came 11th in a class field clocking 29 minutes and 28 seconds for 11th spot.   Later down the card, in a Veterans 3K, Dordoy lined up again and was rewarded with 9th position in 17.56.  Club colleague DAVE SHARPE fared slightly better holding down 6th place with 17.04 on the stopwatch.  The 2 Victoria Park races were supporting events on the National Younger Aged Groups bill, which saw Ilford member BOB DOBSON fill the plum appointment as Chief Judge.

             Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 28th April 2009

Walking Section Report 20th April 2009

                                                    BIG WEEKEND FOR THE DISTANCE MEN

On Sunday morning, while the Nation's eyes (and television screens) will be concentrating on the Flora London Marathon (at which Ilford AC will be represented both in the race and at the Canary Wharf Water Station) a longer distance is in prospect at a much harder event in Stockton-on-Tees.

It's the RWA National 50 Kilometres' Championship.  We're not sure how many Ilford members have entered, but all best wishes go to SCOTT DAVIS.  Scott is truly in the "Hall of Fame" at this distance for being our National Champion on 4 successive occasions.   Now he bids for No.5 and we wish him the best.  Also going for a good one will be OLLY BROWNE who is using this race as part of his build-up for the RWA National 100 Miles at Newmarket on July 11th/12th.

Last year the Stockton race saw a rise in entries for the National 50K.  This year's course will be slightly easier, if indeed there is such a thing as an easy 50K!   A hill has been engineered out of the circuit!

+

The day before, ultra-distance International KEVIN MARSHALL is to marry FRANCES at Clare in Suffolk.  We wish the happy couple all success in their future life together.

D.A.
 

Walking Section Report 14th April 2009

Walking Section Report 7th April 2009

                                                                     BACK PAIN MAN RETURNS

Ilford's ultra-distance specialist OLLY BROWNE returned to competitive action on Saturday when contesting the Crawley Track 12 Hours, which started at the unearthly hour of 7am.   Recently a sciatica sufferer, Browne found an ankle injury to be his undoing on this occasion as he covered 49 miles in the allotted time.   The distance of travel reversed after 6 hours and this also saw a reversal of Browne's fortunes as an increasing painful ankle forced him to ease off his pace.
Nevertheless he was pleased to be 2nd walker and is still on track to compete in July's Newmarket 100 Miles.

         Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 6th April 2009

Walking Section Report 4th April 2009

                                                       Quick Change Act - Then Success

Ilford AC walkers contested the Open 3,000 Metres Track Walk at the Lee Valley Stadium on Saturday morning.   In the case of STEVE UTTLEY his very first stride of the day was straight after Mr.Starter fired his gun as he had not one second of warming-up time.    Arriving close to the start time, he then had to line-up and purchase his entry number and, so close to start time was he, that he used a public toilet to change as changing rooms were too far away before dumping his clothes in a groundsman's hut as he raced to the start line.   Teammates pinned his numbers and pins on while the marksman was assembling the starters.  From the "off" Uttley strode to the head of the field with colleague LAURENCE DORDOY for company.  Dordoy was heavily strapped after suffering a hamstring strain and despite having his surname continually mispronounced by the stadium commentator, still kept in the hunt for nearly 2 laps before letting Uttley claim a lead which was to be his until journey's end in 15 minutes and 42 seconds.   After a further circuit Dordoy was joined by former European and Commonwealth Games International CARL LAWTON (Belgrave Harriers) who raced toe-to-toe with the Ilford man for a further 3 laps before using his ultra long stride to forge ahead and place 2nd in 16.16 with Dordoy completing the frame in 16.24.   DAVE SHARPE showed well, despite feeling off-colour to take a high 5th placing in 16.51.

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 31st March 2009

                                                                       RYAN's EXPRESS

Ilford's PETER RYAN showed best among Ilford AC's walking contingent at last "Nicola 5 Miles" along the Esplanade and sea wall at Canvey Island on a perfect Sunday morning.  The event is being wound up after 15 successful years, during which over £50,000 has been raised for charity.  On a one-circuit course Ilford's PETER RYAN, who had last appeared in this race as a road runner, opted for pedestrianism and finished 4th in 43 minutes and 8 seconds having enough in hand over the closing stages to repel a fast-closing and determined STEVE UTTLEY who was forced to settle for 5th spot in 43.24.   With home favourite - Canvey Islander PHIL BARNARD - winning with ease and 2 lady competitors being the next ones home, Ryan found himself in the position of 2nd man and the recipient of a magnificent trophy in recognition.   In 10th position clocking 46.50 came DAVE SHARPE who had won the Walking Section element of this event back in 2005  During the race Sharpe had a keen tussle with former International PETER HODKINSON (Cambridge Harriers) who just got the better of the Ilford man by 18 seconds.   Among the other Ilford finishers was enthusiastic TONY KELLY who made his course debut and was rewarded with 13th place in 50.10.    Racing just off the pace after 3/4trs of a mile, inform LAURENCE DORDOY suffered the searing pain of a pulled hamstring and was forced to retire from the action.

            Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 23rd March 2009

                                                                SECOND TEAM AT BEXLEY

Ilford sent a squad over to contest the final event of the 2008/9 Winter League series of 5 Kilometres' road walks, held over 4 testing circuits of an "around the houses" course at Bexley on a mild Saturday afternoon.

Best to show for the Cricklefields based Club was STEVE UTTLEY, who has recorded many good times on a course that he is clearly very much "at home" on.  It a case of "more of the same" as he filled a high 5th position in good compnay, coming within a few strides of claiming the scalp of Canvey Islander PHIL BARNARD.   Uttley clocked 26 minutes and 54 seconds, just a position and 7 seconds in arrears on his younger rival.

In 7th place LAURENCE DORDOY continued his recent surge of fine form, passing the timekeeper in an excellent 27.55.   Closing home the Ilford AC team in 8th spot was dependable DAVE SHARPE in 28.43, so enabling the team to place 2nd behind Tonbridge AC.

Also walked : 18th Alan O'Rawe      32.37
              19th Tony Kelly       34.04
              22nd Mick Barnbrook   36.06

Next Sunday (29 March) Ilford's walkers will be among the many who will be contesting the popular "Nicola 5 Miles" on Canvey Island seafront (10.15am)...the last time that this race is to be staged.

       Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)
 

Walking Section Report 16th March 2009

                                                            TEAM VICTORY AT PICKETS LOCK

Enfield & Harringey AC staged their annual "Pat Furey Trophies Meeting" at Pickets Lock in ideal conditions on a perfect Saturday afternoon.   The race is personally sponsored by the host Club's former Irish International walker Pat Furey who, 2 decades ago, hung up his racing pumps moved to Lincolnshire.  Once-a-year he returns to Enfield and generously opens his wallet to heavily sponsor the afternoon's racing.

The headline event was a 5 miles' walk held over an "out-and-back" course with nothing more than a gentle rise to show concern about.  A National Squad Coaching weekend took some leading lights away and it was left to stalwart STEVE UTTLEY to show best for the Cricklefields-based contingent as he was always in touch with the frame coming 5th, from a field of 40, in 44 minutes and 13 seconds.   In close order was a rejuvenated LAURENCE DORDOY who surprised his colleagues, rivals and himself with a wonderful performance as he claimed 11th position in 46.02.   He tore into the action from "the off" and kept up a strong pace, only losing a couple of positions in the final stages.  It was remarkable as in his last race he retired with a hamstring injury and in the appearance before that - incidentally also at Pickets Lock - he never started as he was injured during his warm-up and forced to scratch.

Dependable DAVE SHARPE, 13th and 2008 Ilford Walking Clubman-of-the-Year MIKE HINTON, 18th closed home the 4-to-score team clocking 47.03 and 48.34 respectively.  It was a tight finish as Ilford retained the Pat Furey Trophy by a solitary point from Wimbledon-based Belgrave Harriers.  Further down the order, in 28th spot, ALAN O'RAWE gave his usual sound performance to clock 53.07.

Next Saturday Ilford's walkers will be contesting the final "Winter league" race at Bexley over 5 Kilometres (2pm).

        Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 9th March 2009

                                                              BIG TEST FOR GREAT SCOTT

Representing Scotland Ilford's protagonist SCOTT DAVIS lined up for Sunday's GRAN PREMIO CITTA DI LUGANO 20 Kilometres Walk, held over a flat 2K circuit on the scenic banks of Switzerland's Lake Lugano in perfect sunny conditions with no breeze.  

It was a European Athletics Permit Meeting and only open to notables, hence it was a top class International field which faced the starter.   From the "off" Davis maintained a fast, but even, pace hitting halfway in an excellent 47 minutes and 15 seconds before keeping up his relentless progress to finish 21st (from 44) in a time of 94 minutes and 10 seconds during which time he was seen to be stylish, powerful and untroubled.  The time was close to his personal best which had been set some years ago, and got the Ilford athlete closer towards the Commonwealth Games time standard.   It was an important meeting to be seen doing well at, for as well as his Coach - Club Colleague DAVE KATES - he was on show before the UK National Coach ANDI DRAKE and other International Selectors.  The ability to hold a steady fast pace is a tactic that Davis has honed to perfection, as seen by his status as the reigning UK National 50K for the past 4 years when successfully employing such strategies to wear down rivals.

On the undercard there was a Masters 10K held simultaneously with the main event, which saw sprightly Ilford veteran ALAN O'RAWE place 9th, from 11, in 66 minutes and 52 seconds.

Nearer home, at the Lee Valley Stadium, DAVE SHARPE contested the over 55s British Masters 3,000 Metres Championship walk over 15 banked circuits of an indoor track.   Sharpe was undone by a "dark horse" in seldom seen Birchfield Harrier PETER BOSZCO, who only raced 7 times in 2008 but still broke the tape in 16 minutes and 34 seconds with the Ilford man striking silver in 17.10.

Next Week Ilford's Squad return to Pickets Lock en masse for a heavily sponsored Enfield League 5 Miles race on Saturday at 2pm.

         Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 6th March 2009

                                                                    TABLE TOPPER

In the Race Walking Association's statistics for 2008, released this week, congratulations are due to Ilford AC's International distance walker KEVIN MARSHALL, who has topped the 2008 UK walking rankings for the athletes covering most distances in walking races.   He's covered a whopping 932,962 metres in competition during the calendar year.  

Also in the top 20 in terms of distance covered is STEPHEN CRANE, 11th with 406,987 metres under his belt, OLLY BROWNE, 13th with 406,987 metres behind him and Captain DAVE SHARPE 19th 352,659 metres on the record.

In the number of actual appearances Ilford AC have 2 members in the top 20, courtesy of DAVE SHAPE and STEPHEN CRANE who are 8th and 9th respectively finishing 38 and 36 races during the year.

Teamwise Ilford AC are a joint 8th (with Surrey Walking Club) with a combined total of 259 recorded completions from all members.

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)
 

Walking Section Report 23rd February 2009

                                                                ESSEX TITLES RETAINED

Ilford AC walkers lined-up at Picketts Lock on a surprisingly mild Saturday afternoon to contest the National 10 Miles' Road Walking Championship over a dismal "out-and-back course, which included the Essex Championship in conjunction.

Before the "off" 2 key walkers cried off with injury in former Captain DAVE KATES, and STEVE ALLEN who was 50/50 but made a late decision not to start.   One non-starter making an even later decision was stalwart LAURENCE DORDOY who'd been showing good form of late.  He donned his number-and-pins and was well into a pre-race warming-up routine when suffering a hamstring strain, so preventing him from taking his place on the start line.

From the start it was protagonist SCOTT DAVIS who again showed best for the Cricklefields based outfit.   He was always within sight of the van, and in what was a top class field, kept up a good pace throughout to be rewarded with 5th position in 76 minutes and 15 seconds.   In his wake 2nd claim member STEPHEN CRANE, who this year has his sights set on much longer distances, filled 12th spot in 87.13 wiuth ease.    In his wake another former Captain STEVE UTTLEY battled away to secure 18th spot in 92.55.   Current Captain DAVE SHARPE was his usual reliable self as he recorded 98.17 to claim 25th position.   This enabled Ilford to take 4th place in the National Championships, just a few points adrift on Guernsey-based Sarnia Walking Club.   Further down the order recent signing TONY KELLY had a sound debut over the 10 miles distance as he comfortably pounded out 110.38 to take 36th place.   Experienced veteran of many such National events BOB DOBSON's day ended in frustration as he fell foul of the judges late on.

In the Essex Championships, Davis retained his County title and Ilford the team trophy.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 16th February 2009

                                                           A SHARPE COUNTY MEDAL

Ilford's DAVE SHARPE struck silver in the inaugural Essex County AAA Indoor Athletics Championships, held on Sunday at the Lea Valley Stadium.    Racing, in walking terms that is, over the now rarely staged distance of 1 mile, Sharpe walked with confidence to place 2nd in 8 minutes and 50 seconds behind leader - Canvey Islander PHIL BARNARD.    The Championships of Essex and Kent were held jointly and stride-for-stride with Sharpe over the second half of the race was promising Medway junior walker REBECCA COLLINS.  On approaching the finishing line together, Sharpe's experience and Collins's naivety decided 2nd/3rd places.  As fast pounding feet reached the line, the Ilford man "dipped", the Kent lady didn't, so giving the verdict to a more alert Sharpe in!

The previous day at Bexley, Ilford contested a Winter League 5K over 4 circuits of a testing course, winning the team event with the best performance coming from STEVE UTTLEY, a former course and distance winner, who in good class company came 5th in 26 minutes and 30 seconds.   Catching the eye with a strong performance was improving LAURENCE DORDOY who finished 8th in 28.03.   Dordoy is doing extra training in anticipation of a good walk at April's London Marathon.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 9th February 2009

LATE DECISION HAS A SILVER LINING

Ilford's STEVE UTTLEY struggled throughout the arctic spell with a heavy cold and on Sunday morning, upon rising, he sat on the edge of his bed for 5 minutes deliberating about racing at Pickets Lock later that morning.

He then chose to appear in Sunday morning's Southern Counties Indoor 3,000 Metres' Championship Walk, which being in a warm centrally heated building, avoided the dismal weather conditions prevailing outside.

Before the "off" Utley stated that he would not be waging his usual tight battle with old rival JOHN HALL (Belgrave Harriers), and when racing commenced settled into a comfortable gait to easily secure 2nd spot in 15 minutes and 49 seconds.  Not in contention for the lead and well ahead of the 3rd placed walker, Uttley had the luxury of being able to coast around the final couple of circuits.  Completing the frame in 3rd spot was consistent Ilford stalwart DAVE SHARPE in 17.40.   

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)
 

Walking Section Report 2nd February 2009

Title Holders Ilford slumped to 4th place in this year's London Open Walks held in freezing and windy conditions at Victoria Park, East london on Sunday. In spite of some excellent individual performances absences cost Ilford the opportunity to successfully defend the title won last year.  In addition the field was extremely strong with a number of internationals at the front led by the King brothers from Colchester.  Scott Davis made his first appearance of the new year following illness and, although never in touch with the race leaders, performed surprisingly well to finish 7th in a respectable time of 47 minutes 5 seconds, a time that would probably have been 30 seconds faster were it not for the strong winds on much of the course.  New signing Steve Allen (not to be confused with his namesake Steve Allen the taxi driver who was unavailable for this fixture) performed superbly to record a personal best of 54-53 in 14th place which made him Ilford's second scorer, ahead of Steve Uttley 17th in 55-48, who had walked through the field after a slow start to gain several places in the second half of the race.  Dave Sharpe in 22nd (60-31) and Laurence Dordoy 23rd had a battle through most of the race until Laurence tired in the last mile or so, with Bob Dobson also walking in 33rd place. Mention should also be made of 2nd claim member Steve Crane who was an excellent 10th in a time of 52-06, his fastest for several months.

Steve Uttley
07727 187966

Walking Section Report 19th January 2009

RYAN'S EXPRESS

Ilford AC's walking squad welcomed back PETER RYAN on a cold and blowy Saturday afternoon after a spell of injury and unavailability.   And the manner in which he tackled the Enfield League 5 Miles event, held around 5 twisting circuits of a public park in that town, indicated that he was back with all his renown enthusiasm and gusto.  From the "off" Ryan was in full stride and just adrift of the van.   The first 3 drew away and in class company the comeback man secured 4th place from a long way out, crossing the line in an excellent 44 minutes and 54 seconds.

It became an Ilford procession as Enfield League regulars STEVE UTTLEY and DAVE KATES were in form to fill 5th and 6th spots respectively clocking 45.08 and 45.33, so ensuring a comfortable team victory.

Also walked : 15th Dave Sharpe       48.19
              16th Laurence Dordoy   48.35
              18th Mike Hinton       49.31
              22th Tony Kelly        51.25
              28th Alan O'Rawe       54.28

Aside from athletics Ilford AC had unexpected success at the post-race Clubroom presentation as they plundered 1st, 2nd and 4th prizes in the raffle!

        Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 12th January 2009

Reigning national 10km Champions Ilford slumped to a disappointing 5th place in the Southern Area 10kms championships held at Monks Hill near Croydon on Saturday in freezing conditions.  A series of no shows and last minute unavailability left Ilford short of some of their best performers leaving effectively a reserve squad to contest the championship.  In particular reigning national 50km champion Scott Davies was absent owing to illness. 

With other key squad members also absent it was left to Steve Uttley to lead Ilford home in 10th place after a race long battle on the icy surface with long-time Belgrave rival John Hall.  Still a little way short of best form Steve recorded 55 minutes 1 second, an improvement of over 2 minutes on his last performance.  Also improved was Laurence Dordoy in 20th place who recorded 60-36, over 3 minutes and 2 places ahead of  clubmate Dave Sharpe who closed in the Ilford team.  Recent recruit Tony Kelly was a further 2 places back in 24th place.

Steve Uttley
 

 Walking Section Report 29th December 2008

PHEW!

A small but nevertheless enthusiastic band of race walkers assembled at Pickets Lock on Boxing Day morning to contest a 5 Kilometres event staged by Enfield & Harringey AC.    In bright sunshine but in bitingly cold conditions the field tackled an even "once out-and-back" course which went alongside a sewage works,  Thankfully wind was not blowing towards the athletes, who were led by Ilford's STEPHEN CRANE.   Breathing down his neck, as he did at Chigwell Row just 5 days earlier, was former event winner JOHN HALL.   Crane held his slender lead for 4 kilometres whereupon Hall overtook and forced the pace until 50 metres from the tape when the younger Ilford man produced a burst to secure victory by a second.   Indeed Hall was "2nd by a second", as the victor clocked 26 minutes and 3 seconds to Hall's 26.04.

Stalwarts DAVE SHARPE and LAURENCE DORDOY were 5th and 6th respectively recording 28.52 and 28.30.   Ilford won the team race with 3 points to spare over their Enfield hosts.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 22nd December 2008

IN THE VAN AT HOME PROMOTION

Ilford AC staged their long-established Christmas Allcomers' 10 Kilometers Walk on a mild Sunday morning.   Ilford AC President JOHN MACKENZIE acted as Mister Starter and sent the field away on a testing 3 laps circuit.  he had intended to do more than shout "go" as he planned on racing, but having given his all while pounding the sod around Hainault Forest a day before, he wisely elected to watch others racing.

An enthralling encounter unfolded at the head of the field as Ilford's STEPHEN CRANE and wily JOHN HALL of Belgrave Harriers battled for the lead, with neither giving an inch.   Hall, a past course and event winner in his heyday, is known as a handful when it comes to getting the better of - but he had to settle for second best as Crane opened up a small gap on the 2nd circuit.  Try as the the Ilford man could, he couldn't extend his lead into a decisive one and it was still in doubt right to the line, which he crossed 1st in 54 minutes and 36 seconds.   Hall took 2nd place in 54.43.    Another close battle ensued for the honour of completing the frame as another former winner STEVE UTTLEY and former Captain DAVE KATES - both Ilford - raced hard throughout with the issue in doubt until the final strides as they clocked 57.36 and 57.41 to fill 3rd and 4th spots respectively.

With OLLY BROWNE returning after a lay-off to clock 60.06 for 9th position Ilford were comfortable winners of the team award.   A mention for Ilford's LAURENCE DORDOY as he was suffering from the flu which had kept a number of potential competitors away...nevertheless he gave it a go after deciding at the last moment to enter, and struggled to a 66.48 timing which secured him 15th spot.

Also walked : 10th Dave Sharpe    61.19
              11th Mike Hinton    61.23

KEVIN MARSHALL fell foul of the judges but lives to fight another day in his specialist ultra-distance field.

The Ladies race was won by Helen Middleton of Enfield & Harringey AC who clocked 58.28

After the race Ilford's President John Mackenzie presented the prizes, which included Ilford's Walking Section 2008 Awards.

Long Distance Trophy :Olly Browne (for his 4th place in the UK 100 Miles
                                   Championship)
                                                          
Hunwicks Trophy : Mike Hinton (for the Clubman-of-the-Year).

50K trophy : Scott Davis (for the best 50K Walk in 2008)

              Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section

Walking Section Report 15th December 2008

FAIR WEATHER WALKERS

Walking's image of the "Iron Men of the Highway" took a dent on Saturday afternoon at South Croydon where Surrey Walking Club staged their long established and annual Christmas Cup Walk over 5 Kilometres around 4 circuits of an undulating "around the houses" course.

In torrential rain and in biting cold conditions a field of half what was expected turnout out, leaving the organisers none too impressed - especially as many of their own Club's members opted to stay indoors in the warm and dry!

Latecomers caused the field to be held on the start line in adverse conditions for almost 15 minutes before a bedraggled group of athletes finally wiggled into action.   Best to show for Ilford was again the ever-present DAVE SHARPE who always looked comfortable as he made light of the conditions to claim 10th position in 29 minutes and 31 seconds.   Team colleague LAURENCE DORDOY was ahead of Sharpe for the first lap-and-a-quarter before Sharpe powered ahead leaving Dordoy to fill 14th spot in 30.24.   Enthusiastic TONY KELLY came 17th in 31.20 so enabling Ilford to take the 2nd team honours behind their hosts.

In conjunction was a handicap race which saw Kelly's recent fine form rewarded with 2nd handicap prize - his first award in Ilford's colours.   For good measure Sharpe got the 3rd handicap prize, both prizes being book vouchers.

Next Sunday (21 Dec) Ilford AC will be staging their annual and long established Christmas 10 Kilometres Walking race from Chigwell Row Village (10.30am).

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382

Walking Section Report 8th December 2008

WINTER STROLL

Ilford sent a small squad to contest the 2nd in this season's Winter League series of 5 Kilometres races held on a testing "around the houses" course at Bexley.   Raced over 4 laps with a stiff climb on each, it saw DAVE SHARPE and LAURENCE DORDOY walking well to form as each had opportunities to lead home the Ilford scoring trio.  It was Sharpe who forged ahead over the closing stages to claim 8th position in 28 minutes and 39 seconds with Dordoy a place in arrears with 28.54 on the stopwatch.    Recent signing TONY KELLY filled 13th spot with a personal best 31.01 enabling Ilford to take team honours narrowly ahead of Surrey Walking Club.

        Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 1st December 2008

ENOUGH IS A FEAST

For a second successive Saturday Ilford's walkers suffered owing to unavailability but nerveless had enough in hand to clinch the Enfield League title for the first time in 3 years, having narrowly lost out to their hosts - Enfield & Harringey AC in 2006 and 2007.

The final event of a 12-race programme was held over 5 miles around 5 laps of a twisting public park circuit in Enfield on a bitterly cold afternoon.   Much attention was placed on STEVE UTTLEY who was 3rd in the individual table; but his afternoon was thrown out of gear as a  repairer who has promised to have his car ready for 10.30am failed to honour his pledge until 1.30pm, which was far too late for the athlete to toe the start line!    That left him unable to cement his position and he finished the series out of the individual awards in 4th spot.   It left DAVE KATES as Ilford's sole "big hitter" in the leading bunch...and in good class company he filled 5th position in an excellent 45 minutes and 58 seconds, sandwiched between former European Games representative ARTHUR THOMPSON (Enfield) and an Olympian SHAUN LIGHTMAN (Surrey Walking Club).   In 12th spot came stalwart DAVE SHARPE in 48.51, with MIKE HINTON 13th in 49.09.   The latter had raced hard throughout with colleague LAURENCE DORDOY who was 15th in 49.13   with Belgrave Harrier MAUREEN NOEL sandwiching herself in-between.
Recent signing TONY KELLY was in fine form easily claiming his 5-miles-in-an-hour performance badge as he sped over the finishing line in 50.42.

Teamwise Ilford AC came 3rd on-the-day but had enough points in the bag from previous races to win that overall Enfield League title.

In Sunday's appalling conditions STEVE ALLEN tackled the Long Distance Walkers' Association off-road 50K walk around a giant North Downs loop starting and finishing in Edenbridge.   In heavy drizzle throughout and over tough terrain, the hardy walkers also faced mud and frequent hills.   Allen,who also fell over, trudged home in 7 hours and 19 minutes.   He was aiming to emulate his previous sub-7 hours performance on this course, but went astray in the closing stages losing half-an-hour is so doing.   With competitors setting off at intervals he left the event without knowing his final position as some were still competing!

          Issued By Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382

Walking Section Report 24th November 2008

UNAVAILABILITY COSTS ILFORD DEAR

A depleted Ilford AC squad contested the annual long-established Belgrave Harriers Open 7 Miles Walk at Wimbledon on a bitingly cold Saturday afternoon.   The chances of retaining their 2007 team trophy were slim following a series of cry-offs which left a small but nevertheless enthusiastic quartet in contention.

Best of those was STEVE ALLEN who started fast on a tough 6 laps course, which included a stiff climb that many thought would be better ascended on a funicular railway!   That hill took its toll and just after midway Allen was feeling so groggy that he contemplated wheeling off the circuit.   He thought again and decided to press on and, in keeping with his reputation as a fast finisher, somehow produced a stirring final lap during which he overtook 2 opponents.   This proved to be the difference between gaining those 3rd team prizes (Sainsbury's vouchers) or going home empty-handed, as Ilford nicked that spot by just 2 points from Enfield & Harringey AC.  Allen's efforts saw him fill 9th position in 64 minutes and 37 seconds.

Allen was well backed-up by stalwarts DAVE SHARPE and MIKE HINTON who came 16th and 17th in 67.37 and 67.40 respectively.   LAWRENCE DORDOY came 23rd in 69.42.

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 10th November 2008

ILFORD ENJOY A BREAK IN THE WEATHER

Fortune shone on the 72 athletes who assembled for a walking meeting at Pickets Lock in Edmonton on Saturday afternoon.   On route to this event the rain WHICH HAD teemed down abated shortly before the "off"  resuming minutes after the back marker had padded over the finishing line.

The main race on the card was the long established Enfield Open 7 Miles where Ilford's SCOTT DAVIS was bidding for a 4th consecutive victory.  He was always in contention with pre-race favourite DARRYL STONE (Steyning) AC over 5 of the 7 times "out-and-back" course, until the Sussex man opened-up a small lead over the closing stages to secure victory in 51 minutes and 22 seconds with Davis coming 2nd in a personal best time of 51.45, with which he was delighted and offset his disappointment of not tasting victory.   Stone has a curious involvement in athletics for this obviously talented former International was making only his 3rd appearance of 2008 - and it's now November!

Davis was well backed-up by STEVE ALLEN who came 12th in 61.26 after a long battle with Hillingdon's Andy Cox.   Cox was the latest to come off second-best to Allen's trademark final burst, which he's well known for!  Closing the Ilford AC team home, in 2nd place behind favourites Steyning AC, was former Captain DAVE KATES who filled 15th spot in 62.53.    In 17th position came STEVE UTTLEY who clocked 63.21 after starting with no warm-up when arriving just before start time owing to his frustrating public transport journey.

Also walked :  25th Dave Sharpe       67.08
               27th Mike Hinton       67.47
               30th Laurence Dordoy   69.24
               31st Bob Dobson        69.35
               37th Alan O'Rawe       75.42 

In the London Business Houses 7 Miles Championship, which was held in conjunction, Ilford's walkers had a clean sweep of the medals courtesy of Davis (London Underground), Allen (Post Office) and Uttley (Civil Service).

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 3rd November 2008

BEDRAGGLED SECOND

Ilford AC sent a small squad over to South Croydon to contest Saturday afternoon's Addington Vase, held on a testing multi-lap "around the houses" circuit during teeming rain throughout.

Best of the Cricklefields-based contingent was recently elected Captain DAVE SHARPE who came 6th in 68 minutes and 30 seconds.   For the entire journey Sharpe had the host Club's MICHAEL HARRAN (Surrey Walking Club) literally breathing down his neck.   Harren had saved his best effort for a charge along the final downhill stretch, during which the Ilford man held him every step of the way as both flung themselves over the finishing line leaving it to Officials to decide an outcome, which went in Sharpe's favour by the width of a vest!

Expressing contentment with his 10th position was LAURENCE DORDOY in 70.04 while equally happy with his performance was recent signing TONY KELLY from Barking who, making his 7 Miles debut, filled 12th spot in 70.54.   Teamwise Ilford failed to win the Addington Vase, coming 2nd team behind their hosts.

Next Saturday (8 Nov) Ilford will have a full strength side out for the long established Enfield Open 7 Miles, starting at 2pm from the Pickets Lock Sports Centre, where the Club will be defending both individual and team titles.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 20th October 2008

ESSEX LEAGUE TITLE RETAINED

Ilford AC contested the opening fixture of the 4-race Winter League series of 5K events at a hilly Bexley.  Despite being in Kent it was also the final event of the 12-race 2008 Essex League Series.

Over 4 circuits of an "around the houses" course containing a steep climb, DAVE SHARPE led home a small Ilford AC contingent in 29 minutes and 21 seconds to claim 7th spot in a class field containing a number of promising juniors who laid waste to the frame positions.  Of more importance he was the first Essex-vased walker on the result sheet so winning the Essex League race which was held in conjunction.  It was Sharpe's only Essex League top position since making his debut in the competition way back at Southend in 1972.   The points trawled in from his efforts enabled him to take top place in the overall Essex League final table, so retaining the title he had won for the first time in 2007.   In 8th spot was LAURENCE DORDOY who got better as the race progressed and was closing fast on Sharpe as the finish line loomed into view.   Dordoy was rewarded with 8th spot in 29.30.   Ilford's recent signing TONY KELLY race walked for the 4th Saturday in succession and was rewarded with a fine 11th position in 31.05.

Surprisingly the walker who only had to appear and finish to win the 2008 Essex League title - STEPHEN CRANE - opted to race the Birchfield Harriers 20 Kilometres around a 2 kilometres public park circuit in Birmingham.   He was disappointed with his time, finishing 4th in 1 hour 57 minutes and 37 seconds, being denied a frame finish by former UK European UK Games representative ARTHUR JONES (Herts Phoenix) who was 2 minutes ahead.   Despite struggling in the second half, former International BOB DOBSON came 11th in 2.10.48 and was pleased to have finished just 48 seconds adrift of his pre-race target in what was the longest distance race that he had entered in 2008.

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 13th October 2008

SPECTACULAR VICTORY IN A BIG FIELD

Over 50 toed the line for the Enfield League 5 Kilometres Walk on a perfect Saturday afternoon to race around 3 flat but twisting circuits of a large public park in Enfield.

From the "off" pre-race favourite - Ilford's international SCOTT DAVIS - formed part of a 4-strong van who walked in close order until the halfway mark.  But when Davis turned on the tap the other 3 ran out of steam as nobody could match his dramatic increase of pace; as he continued pulling further away from his rivals until breaking the tape in 23 minutes and 9 seconds.   Canvey Islander PHIL BARNARD was 2nd in 23.32.

Consistent performances were put in by the 2 STEVES - UTTLEY and ALLEN who achieved high positions in good company reaching the line in 7th and 8th positions clocking 26.45 and 27.13 respectively.

Also walked : 13th Dave Kates        27.33
              18th Dave Sharpe       29.12
              20th Mike Hinton       29.19
              25th Tony Kelly        31.10

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 6th October 2008

SOUND DEBUT MADE

A small Ilford contingent made an appearance at the Surrey Walking Club Gazette 4 miles at Monks Hill near Croydon, held on a testing 5 lap circuit in chilly conditions.  2nd claim member Stephen Crane was the first man in 3rd place, clocking 33 minutes 35 seconds.  Steve Uttley stayed in fairly close contact for the first couple of laps, but gradually fell behind to finish 5th in 34-48.  Dave Sharpe was 12th in 38-18, with postman Tony Kelly making his debut for Ilford finishing a respectable 21st in 41-59.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (report by Steve Uttley)

Walking Section Report 29th September 2008

WALKERS SWITCH CODES

Two of Ilford AC's walkers switched to running in Sunday's Berlin Marathon, and joined over 30,000 others to race around the German capital.    On Saturday STEVE ALLEN and his father ALEX decided to compete in the "warm-up" 10K, which finished in the famous Stadium that hosted the 1936 Olympic Games, racing together, with the former walking and the latter running.

But the Sunday's main event was on a course which finished at the famous Brandenburg Gate.    It was a truly remarkable performance by MICKY SUTTON, who in only his 2nd race back after being a hospital patient with kidney stones, sped around the course to clock 3 hours 25 minutes and 28 seconds for 5,071th position.   Not too far behind in time, though many positions later, came STEVE ALLEN who filled 5,513rd place in 3.27.25.    Allen stated, " I accept that the starting line area becomes congested at such events, but was surprised to find 3 bottlenecks along the course where runners were forced into a slow jog, so breaking their rhythm".    The Ilford duo booked their accommodation in the former East German side of the city and found they were billeted in an austere former council housing block.  They found time for sightseeing as well as running and thoroughly enjoyed their visit.

Times : We now have the times of Dave Sharpe and Mike Hinton from Sunday;s Valentines Park 5K race : they were 29.20 and 29.42 respectively which is remarkable for (as was reported in yesterday's press handout) both were indisposed.
 

Walking Section Report 22nd September 2008

STAMP OF APPROVAL

Ilford AC sent a trio of walkers to the Annual Postmen's 6 Miles-in-Uniform race, held around 6 circuits of an "around the houses" course in Clerkenwell on a sweltering Saturday afternoon.

This long established event, open to current and former postmen, traditionally attracts a good field from top class race walkers to dare takers and "army style" volunteers.    The participants, who have to Royal Mail uniform, certainly worked up a sweat as guest walker John Constandinou set a fast early pace.   Keeping-up with him was hot favourite DAVE TURNER from Brighouse, who has won every such race for a decade and former winner STEVE ALLEN of Ilford.    The early pace maker dropped back on the 2nd circuit leaving Turner to take his expected place in the van.  Normally the rest just scrap for 2nd spot, but Allen hung on grimly and well into the 3rd lap, giving Turner plenty to think about.   By halfway Allen began to fade as felt uncomfortable when feeling an untimely urge to visit a toilet.   He resisted leaving the race to do so, and  battled on gamely to cement his 2nd spot.  Turner broke the tape in 51 minutes and 15 seconds while Allen claimed 2nd in 52.47.   Such was the standard that 3rd placed and fast closing DENNIS JACKSON from York, who was timed at 53.04 is a former European games walker.

In a fast chasing bunch just off the pace MICKY SUTTON surprised all by producing such form in his first race back after being admitted to hospital to have kidney stones removed.   Prior to the off he talked about taking it easy but soon got back the competitive spirit as he came 9th in 59.39.     MICK SWEENEY who has just returned to athletics after 18 years out of the sport, and who won this race on 5 consecutive occasions during the 80s, thoroughly enjoyed the event and was content to walk soundly to fill a middle order position.

In conjunction with this National event was the London Postmen's race, where ALLEN came 21st and SUTTON 2nd.   A former Ilford member - SIMON MORGAN - who now races for Chelmsford was 3rd in the London stakes.  Prizes were presented by Nicola Scrivings, who Manages London's vast Mount Pleasant Sorting Office.

Note 1 : Lesley Richardson, who won the Ladies title in this event on many occasions, was present and took professional standard photographs.
Note 2 : Ilford AC walkers were also in action at the Essex County AAA 10,000 Metres Walk at Garons Track, Southend-on-Sea.   Steve Uttley is compiling Ilford AC's Press Report for this race.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 15th September 2008

ROUND AND ROUND THEY GO

Ilford AC's walkers contested the Enfield League One Hour race at Pickets Lock track on an unexpectedly hot Saturday afternoon.   The walkers had to walk as far as they could around a track in 60 minutes resulting in many tussles throughout the field.

Best to show for Ilford was STEVE UTTLEY who always looked comfortable as he clinched 6th place with 10,924 metres behind him.   It had been a frustrating week for Steve as , having been in Brussels on Civil Service business, found his Eurostar ticket worthless as the service was suspended.  He only got home after 10 hours traveling via an Amsterdam flight,only just making the start line.  Just behind him was in-form STEVE ALLEN, 7th with 10,749 metres in his wake.     Captain DAVE KATES pounded out a sound 10,344 metres for 9th spot.   DAVE SHARP covered exactly 25 laps of the track for a dead accurate 10,000 metres to the pace, which saw him 11th.

Also walked : 16th Laurence Dordoy    9,517 metres.
              20th Olly Browne        9,351 metres.
              22nd Alan O'Rawe        9,054 metres.

Note : Laurence Dordoys's distance is one of a number which are in dispute, and may be altered upwards after reinspection of the lap scoring charts.   There was a shortage of recorders - Ron Wallwork had planned for the 27 entries.   But another 11 turned-up on the day without entering; and kind Ron wallwork could not send anybody away.  Had he known that 38 would start he would have gone with his original plan of staging 2 separate/graded One Hour races.   Pam Ficken, who is now inured following a nasty fall (you should see her bruising) managed to cope - somehow - with handing out water to 38 entrants more-or-less single-handed.   George Brown is sorely missed, as only 2 judges meant that the "Board System" could not be used.   If you know of any retired walkers who could come back into the sport as officials/helpers, then please tell them that we need them.   Ron did put out an urgent appeal for extra helpers last week.

Next Saturday Ilford's walkers will be in action at 2 venues, as the Essex County AAA 10,000 Metres Championships is to be held at Garons Track in Southend-on-Sea (noon) while STEVE ALLEN and MICKTY SUTTON will be putting their best feet forward in the annual London Postmen's 6 Miles-in-Uniform race at Clerkenwell, with Allen going to the post as defending champion.

Please note that the Essex League 5,000 metres Walk is to be held at Ashtons Track, Woodford Bridge on Tuesday 16th September at 6.20pm.  It's an Essex League race.  Ilford currently head the table in both the team stakes and in the individual category (Scott Davis).

Ex-member LEW MOCKETT, who is soon to be 70 years of age, sends his regards to all.

The new Veterans AC Honorary Walking secretary is Chris Flint.   Only Chris and Cecil Gittings turned-up at the Veterans AC AGM, and Chris felt so embarrassed that no Walking Secretary had been elected in the past 2 years - walkers relying on Officers from other Sections to deal with walking matters - that he allowed his name to go forward if nobody else wanted the job.  He has umpteen jobs already - but he does intend to revamp the evening series of 5 Miles handicap races, and will be seeking your support to boost turnouts.
  
Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 8th September 2008

HISTORY IS MADE

Ilford AC contested the annual National 10 Kilometres Road Walking Championships over 6 twisting circuits at Pickets Lock on a downcast Saturday afternoon, going to post as defending Champions having won this  team title 12 months earlier at Earls Colne in North Essex.

Ilford entered 2 teams in the event and for the first time since National Walking Championships were inaugurated in 1907, the same Club's teams came 1st and 2nd - so emphatically eliminating all opposition!

From the off, star Ilford performer SCOTT DAVIS tucked in within sight of the leading group, sensibly keeping plenty in reserve for the race's second half.   Davis moved up a place when one of the favourites - Colchester Harrier DOMINIC KING was disqualified, but could not make an impact on the race leader - King's twin brother DAN who broke the tape in 43 minutes and 52 seconds.   The next walker to finish, in 2nd place, was Irish guest competitor BRENDON BOYCE in 44.26.   Needless to say he did not qualify for the UK awards, and with Redcar's BEN WEARS and Colchester's LUKE FINCH filling the UK top 3 positions it was Finch that Davis had to attack for the bronze medal.   Davis had a game plan and that was to secure a place medal for all 4 UK 2008 National Road Championships, having won at 20K and 50K and been placed 2nd at 10 Miles.   It was going to plan as Davis stormed around a final lap and bore down on Finch within sight of the finishing line.   Finch was unaware of the fast-closing Davis until a team colleague on the sidelines shouted a warning; so stirring the Colchester Harrier to surge towards the line with his slim 4 seconds advantage.   Finch clocked 46.23 to Davis's 46.27.

Further down the filed STEVE UTTLEY battled on gamely to fill 18th position in 54.41 with STEVE ALLEN, who as always improved as the race wore on, in 19th with 55.38 on the stopwatch.   This enabled Ilford AC to close in as first team.  Of the team's 3 scoring members the latter 2 had been team gold medalists in 2007.

Also on the road were an experienced Ilford AC 'B' team who were led home by Captain DAVE KATES in 24th spot clocking 58.12 with stalwart DAVE SHARPE 25th in 61.06.    In 29th place came former English School Champion walker LAURENCE DORDOY who was still easing his way back to form after injury.  He gritted his teeth to record 63.42.

Ilford's 'A' and 'B' teams had secured the gold and silver team medals with 261 and 225 points respectively with Colchester Harriers coming 3rd with 197 points.    At the presentation the Chairman of the Race Walking Association PETER MARKHAM praised Ilford and stated that the same Club coming 1st and 2nd team had occurred before, though Ilford members did acknowledge that other Clubs disqualifications, retirements and unavailability had all worked in their favour.   But it was truly a cause for celebration for the Cricklefields-based Club.
 

LONG DISTANCE SUCCESS

Also racing over the weekend was ED SHILLABEER who came 3rd in Sunday morning's Guernsey Church-to-Church Classic.   Held over an odd distance of 19.4 miles, the distance being made up as the route passes every church on this popular Channel Island, Shillabeer (a past course and distance winner) had enough strength for an impressive finish which saw him pass local walker Phil Lockwood to secure his frame finish in 3 hours 11 minutes and 27 seconds, just under 3 minutes adrift of 2nd placed local Jason LeNoury.  Shillabeer, by coincidence a Vet by profession,  also was presented with the "Super Vets Trophy".

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 18th August 2008

DOING A TON

Ilford entered a trio of walkers for the British 100 Miles' Walking Championships held on Saturday and Sunday at the Stantonbury Campus track in Milton Keynes.   Illness struck before the off when MICKY SUTTON was admitted to hospital suffering from kidney stones and was forced to scratch from a race in which he had spent much time preparing and training for.   Undaunted, he immediately declared himself a starter for the 2009 Championship on Newmarket Heath!

As the field lined up for the noon start on Saturday in perfect weather it proved to be a frustrating afternoon for International KEVIN MARSHALL as he was an early departure from this race, at 4-and-half hours with around 25 miles on the clock.   Kevin had suffered an upset stomach the day before and pluckily decided to start, despite not being fully content with the prospect at spending the entire race going the same way around a track (this being his track 100 Miles walking debut, with all previous 100 miles miles being completed on road courses).    Kevin admitted afterwards that the Paris-to-Colmar challenge in June, in which he had raced for 350 kilometres, had taken a lot out of him, and from which he had not fully recovered.   It was, as stated, a plucky effort - and he lives to fight another day.

Carrying the Ilford flag right to the finish over a mind-blowing 400 circuits of the track was experienced OLLY BROWNE in his trademark eye-catching Union Jack shorts.    Browne always looked comfortable, even during a torrential downpour which damped the spirits of most between 2am and 4.30am on the Sunday morning, and which knocked out the Stadium's floodlighting leaving the competitors in near total darkness.    Indeed Brown's last 20 miles was his fastest as he pulled something out of the proverbial bag to cover it in 4 hours and 20 minutes overtaking a number of rivals along the way.   In a class field which contained a number of top Continental walkers Browne finished 11th in 22 hours 25 minutes and 21 seconds.   In the home stakes he was placed the 5th British walker.   Not content with his success - his 4th 100 miles finish of which 3 have been on tracks, Browne also vowed to contest the distance in 2009 and go even better!

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 11th August 2008

Success In the Rain

Ilford's walkers contested Saturday afternoon's Enfield League 20 Kilometres around a twisting multi-lap circuit inside a public park.  The opening stages were muggy but conditions worsened as the afternoon wore on, with strong gusts of wind and steady heavy drizzle damping the entrants' spirits.

One man defeating these ever-worsening conditions was PETER RYAN who improved and had the distinction of walking faster during the 2nd half of the race that in his first!   Ryan was Ilford's best finisher filling 4th position in 1 hours 50 minutes and 40 seconds - indeed he finished with a flourish and came within a few strides of nicking a place in the frame as 3rd placed Canvey Islander PHIL BARNARD slowed over the closing stages.   In 6th spot STEVE UTTLEY had the kudos of knocking a massive 12 minutes of his 2008 best time for the distance, as he clocked 1.55.21.   Another with a head of steam approaching the finishing line was Captain DAVE KATES who was 7th in 1.55.21 and coped well with the dismal surroundings after just returning from the much hotter European Masters meeting at Ljubljana in Slovenia.    Back in 17th position MICK BARNBROOK was disappointed with his showing, clocking 2.24.44, but vowed to improve next time out!    Ilford easily won the team event.

2nd Claim performance : Stephen Crane 9th in 2.0415.   Stephen had a great race till the three-quarters point (15K in 85 minutes) after which his pace slowed, probably due to missing the odd training session since the arrival of his first-born. 

On the same card was a 10 Kilometres time trial which saw MIKE HINTON, LAURENCE DORDOY and BILL SUTHERLAND pleased to record 60 minutes and 24 seconds, 67.20 and 77.09 respectively.

On the Sunday at charmingly named King's Meadow Track in Norbiton DAVE SHARPE - who had been timekeeper at the Enfield meeting - donned his shorts and an Essex vest in order to represent the County in the Southern Inter-Counties Meeting.   He acquitted himself well clocking 17.31.53 to place 10th in a class field.

Next Saturday Ilford AC will be parading a team in the National 100 Miles Walking Championship at the Stantonbury Campus Track in Milton Keynes.  Going to post are ultra-distance international KEVIN PERRY whose stated aim is complete this distance sub-20 hours one day, OLLY BROWNE who is a regular at the distance and postman MICKY SUTTON who'll be hoping for a first-class performance to walk 100 Miles for the first time.   Browne and Sutton have both had injury setbacks this season and will take late fitness tests, though both are optimistic about facing the starter.

Honour For Past President.   Former Ilford AC President BILL SUTHERLAND has been elected to Life Membership of the Metropolitan Police Athletic Association (MPAA).   Representing his native Scotland, Sutherland was  bronze medalist in the 1970 Commonwealth Games 20 Miles' Walk and has given meritorious service to sport in Police circles and wider!   SUTHERLAND is one of 2 race walkers to be so honoured, the other being former Olympic 50K walker PAUL BLAGG.

Other results : LICC 3,000 Metres Walk at Parliament Hill Fields Track on Saturday 9th August : 1st Dave Ainsworth 20.58.28 (Only 1 competitor started and finished).   Inter County 3,000 Metres at King's Meadow Track : 12th Dave Ainsworth (Essex) 22.09.82.

We wish Peter Ryan a most enjoyable trip to the Olympic Games (he travels on Tuesday) and will no doubt meet up with Bob Dobson who is already in Beijing.

Finally : Please note that the last of this season's 5 Miles Road Walks in the Vets AC Series is to be staged on Tuesday 12th August at 7pm at Battersea Park (enter on the day).  Hopefully we can see a few Ilford vests going around for the "final curtain" of the 2008 Series.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 30th July 2008

A WALK IN THE PARK

Ilford AC sent a trio of athletes to contest Tuesday evening's 5 Miles Veterans Walking race around 3 circuits of the Queen's carriageway on a sunny and warm Battersea Park.

Ilford's best performer was STEVE UTTLEY who was rewarded with a frame finish among good class company as he pounded out 44 minutes and 32 seconds for 3rd spot.   Keeping him from 2nd was former Olympic Games walker IAN RICHARDS (Steyning AC), while breathing down his neck was former World 100 Miles Road record holder RICHARD BROWN (Surrey Walking Club) who is used to longer distances and couldn't match the Ilford man's speed over those closing stages when it mattered most.

In 8th position MIKE HINTON continued his wonderfully consistent sequence of fine displays clocking 47.59.   The Club welcomed back LAURENCE DORDOY after both injury and holiday commitments, and he signed back in with 51.56 on the stopwatch to secure 12th spot.

          Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)
 

Walking Section Report 21st July 2008

Ilford fly the flag in Wales!

Welsh Masters 3,000 Metres' Championship - Newport Stadium - 20 July

1.  Mark Williams    Tamworth AC     13.10.7      M40 Gold

2.  Phil Williams    Enfield & H     14.42.0      M45 Gold
3.  John Collins     Swansea H       20.41.8      M70 Gold
4.  Colin Bradley    Liswerry AC     21.06.5      M50 Gold
5.  Dave Ainsworth   Ilford          21.15.8      M55 Gold

Booked in, warmed-up, but did not start : Alan Mann (Les Croupiers AC).
Also entered but did not start : Ann Wheeler (Nuneaton Harriers) and Cath McGrath (West Chehire AC). 

On a sunny but breezy afternoon Mark Williams had an untroubled race for the tape, which he broke in just over 13 seconds - a time which he has been consistently beating.  Despite carrying a slight injury from the Leamington 20K the victor would certainly have broken the 13 minutes barrier had he been pushed.   Former Athletics Association of Wales (AAW) President John Collins had the race of his life to finish 3rd.    Colin Bradley, also carrying an injury, raced earlier in the 5,000 metres run, clocking 24.11 - his fastest for 5 years.   Alan Mann also raced the 5,000 metres and decided, after that event not to consider giving the walking race a go.  With 5 competitors from 5 different age groups, it was a case of Gold all round!

Bob Dobson gave the Chief Judges speech, with Olive and AAW Walking Secretary John Thomas also officiating.

Please note that on Tuesday 22nd July Ian Hollingsworth - Chief Sports Feature Writer of the Daily Telegraph - is attending the WTW 3,000 Metres' Walk at Ashtons Track (6.30pm start).   We're hoping for a good turnout to impress him - so if you can make it, please do.

Saturday 26th July : Please don't forget that the Battersea Park 5 Miles Walking race will be shown on BBC1 Breakfast Time Television.   It'll be on 4 times : immediately after the 6.35, 7.35, 8.35 and 9.35am sports bulletins and will be presented by Mike Bushell.   Get up and tune-in!   You might see yourselves in it.

In the afternoon on Saturday there's a 3,000 Metres' Walk in the LICC Series at Copthall Stadium commencing at 1pm for a nominal £1.

D.A.

Walking Section Report 15th July 2008

Walking Section Report 14th July 2008

RIB TICKLER
Ilford's OLLY BROWNE raced in Saturday's Blackpool 50 Kilometres, a multi-lap event around the around the seaside town's Stanley Park.   He was well placed, being just adrift of the leading group, when he felt a searing rib pain a mile short of the 50 Kilometres timing point.   Browne gritted his teeth and endured some hardship to make the timing point whereupon he retired, clocking 5 hours and 40 minutes.   Speaking the day afterwards, and still in pain, the Ilford athlete will have a fitness test before embarking on further ultra-distance events, but was nevertheless hopeful of so doing!

       Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

N.B. The main race of the weekend was the British Masters 10K Championship at Enfield, which is being written up by Steve Uttley.

Walking Section Report 7th July 2008

IN UNIFORM

Ilford's STEVE ALLEN and MICKY SUTTON, who both excel when appearing in running and walking races opted for pedestrianism on Sunday in the delightful City of York where they lined-up for the annual Postmen's 10 Kilometres-in-Uniform event.     With clear favourite DAVE TURNER from Brighouse, who wins this event year-after-year, on the start line the battle was on for the frame positions.    Turner duly notched up his umpteenth win with ease, clocking 54 minutes and 27 seconds, but in his wake a battle royal ensued between Allen and Edinburgh's COLIN SCOTT which was decided by the Ilford man's extra bit of pace over the closing stages when he worked himself in to a 4 seconds advantage to claim 2nd spot.   Allen clocked 56.12 with Scott just behind in 56.16.

MICKY SUTTON walked a sound race to place 11th in 63.36.

TONY KELLY, who resides in Barking and who has asked for an Ilford AC application form, came 14th in 64.41.    Tony has been doing some races as unattached, and raced well in the recent TV event at Battersea Park

We've received notice from Veterans AC that their Track & Field Championships - scheduled for Battersea Park Track on Sunday 24th August are now to be staged at King's Meadow Track, Norbiton on the same day.    One for your dairies.

                               Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)

Walking Section Report 23rd June 2008

WALKING SECTION REPORT

The 2nd of this season's London Inter Club Challenge athletics meetings took place at Ashtons Track, Woodford Bridge on a warm Saturday afternoon, with the 3,000 metes walking race being the curtain raiser.

Southend-on-Sea AC's CHRIS CATTANO led from start to finish, living up to his billing as the pre-race favourite on a track where he has never been beaten.   He broke the tape in 15 minutes and 20 seconds.

In his wake a tight battle ensued for the frame positions between Ilford's OLLY BROWNE and former European Games competitor CARL LAWTON of Belgrave Harriers.  Neither was prepared to yield a stride until within 200 metres of the finishing line when Browne raised his game to open up a small but decisive lead to come 2nd in 16.36 with Lawton 3rd in 16.41.

Also walked : 4th Dave Sharpe     17.36
              6th Alan O'Rawe     18.53
             11th Bill Sutherland 22.20

Olly wore his eye-catching Union Jack shorts and after completing his endeavours found himself surrounded by a group of young American ladies who were part of a visiting team.   They made it clear that they wanted his shorts -and fearing that he might be debagged on the spot, he promised them - and handed them over after he'd changed.   In return they presented him with their Club's T-Shirt and a commemorative mug in exchange.

Shorts were the undoing of Bill Sutherland's challenge.   Former Ilford AC President Bill has had many good days during his time in the sport, notably earning a Commonwealth Games bronze medal at Edinburgh in 1970.   As his good days go...this was not one of them!   His shorts elastic failed inside half-a-lap, causing him to use one hand to hitch them up, around 4 or 5 times each circuit, in order to preserve decency - so somewhat retarding his progress!

KEVIN MARSHALL's brave attempt to become the 3rd British man to complete the World's longest walking race - the 540 Kilometres Paris-to-Colmar, ended when he was "timed-out" after 350 Kilometres.   Kevin was physically and mentally exhausted after having given it his all, and he was truly proud of his great achievement.  In true Ilford AC fashion, shortly after leaving the race, he was seen sitting by the roadside with a beer in hand!

Tuesday : There's a 5 MIles Veterans' race at Battersea Park (7pm).  All are welcome for a race which the BBC are filming.

Wednesday : There's a 5,000 Metres track Walk at Picketts Lock (6/45pm).  All are welcome for what is a new venture.

Folks : The new cycle track at the junction of Romford Road and Forest Road in Hainault has opened (this replaces the now-demolished Eastway Cycle Circuit, which often saw running and walking races held on it's undulating surface.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)
 

Walking Section Report 16th June 2008