Ilford AC Walking Section – Press Report 07/01/2013  

Feb 212013
 

Ilford AC’s walkers didn’t have to wait long into 2013 for an important race as a mild Saturday afternoon saw the Southern Area 10 Kilometres Championship staged over 7 undulating circuits of an “around-the-houses” course in South Croydon. The day didn’t start well as 2012 Champion FRANCISCO REIS withdrew on account of illness. With some members unavailable it provided opportunities for others to make team scoring positions. Much praise was heaped on Captain STEVE UTTLEY for his excellent 4th place in 53 minutes and 42 seconds, which was all the more commendable as 2 of those 3 competitors ahead of him were Olympians! Next Ilford man home was former Scottish International STUART BENNETT in 10th position closing 59.44, who by helping Ilford AC into 2nd team position, earned his first award since returning to race walking after a spell working in the Middle East. Bennett was particularly prominent in the earlier stages as he maintained rapid pace in good company. Closing home Ilford’s team was STEVE ALLEN, 12th in 61.34. Allen spent 2012 concentrating on ultra-distances and is now settling back well into shorter events. Teamwise, Ilford were just prevented from retaining their team title by only 2 points from Sussex-based Steyning AC. The pick of Ilford’s other entrants was ED SHILLABEER who belied his veteran status by filling 18th spot in a lively 64.59.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section

  Neringa Article  

Feb 212013
 

Here’s an article about Ilford’s latest Olympian, penned by Interviewer and former Ilford AC walker Len Ruddock.

  Ilford AC Walking Section – Press Release 12/11/2012  

Feb 212013
 

WHIFF OF SUCCESS

Ilford AC sent a strong squad to Lee Valley on a mild Saturday afternoon where they contested the 86th Annual Enfield Open 7 Miles Walk, along an “out-and-back” course beside a canal, which was completed 3 times. The course took its 63 participants alongside a large large Sewage Works Works, and what little breeze there was unfortunately blew in the walkers’ direction! With 3 noted International, led by London Olympian Dominic King (Colchester Harriers) easily filling the frame, a serious race was on for 4th spot – which was claimed by FRANCISCO REIS, a former winner of this long established race, in 57 minutes and 46 seconds. He was well backed up by Captain STEVE UTTLEY who because of injury only decided to appear at the proverbial eleventh hour. He took it slightly easier and his fitness held up as he finished 7th in 59.39. Ilford’s team were closed in by another former event winner, PETE RYAN, who clocked 62.31 for 11th spot. This enabled the Cricklefields-based Club to retain their team trophy. Among Ilford’s 10 strong representation praise is due to STEVE ALLEN, who returned to domestic athletics after his recent 100 Miles success and super-fit veteran ALAN O’RAWE, who were 21st and 31st clocking 67.57 and 71.02 respectively.

Issued by Ilford AC Walking Section (01708-377382)