Ashford Striders

Ashford Parkrun celebrated its 10th birthday on Saturday and Striders galore were there to mark the occasion. Jack Farrant was our first runner over the line, finishing in 22:16 and bagging a new PB. Well done Jack! Dan Green was next in 22:39 followed by Justin Burden with 23:17. Jamie Penfold got close to his PB with 23:24 and Cherith Wright kicked off a brilliant weekend for her by taking the First Lady Strider place with 24:16. Daniel Shwartz went round in 26:39 with Claire Green close behind in 27:03. Scott Hawkins achieved a 27:48 finish and Graham Troman 28:12. Mandy Cooper and Darren Laker were pretty close with 28:38 and 28:45 respectively whilst Don Dewar and Vicky Stevenson battled it out behind them with Don just nicking it with 29:33 to Vicky’s 29:35. Jason Sanders and Chris Wicks completed the sub 30s with respective times of 29:51 and 29:56.
Amanda James showed she was finding her pre-holiday form again. She just missed the sub 30 goal with 30:01 (and she promised me she didn’t walk!). Nic Crawley continued her comeback after injury with a 30:48 finish and David Gadsby got round in 31:07. Jo Mason and Justine Wearn were also pretty close. They were probably chatting about the previous weeks Beachy Head exploits and finished with respective times of 31:32 and 31:38. Sharni Copham completed in 33:11 ahead of Rachel Tomsett in 33:43. Lisa Fulcher, Sara Dewar and Michelle Brice were the next Strider trio through the funnel with times of 33:53, 34:18 and 35:12 followed by Dee Millen and Jennifer Watts in 35:24 and 35:25. Siobhan Hagan came through in 35:46 followed by Martin Whittingham in 35:50 and Michelle Bryant in 36:03. Rachel Oliver noted up 37:00 exactly with Julie Foster following in 38:03. Laura Clark completed in 38:33 and Tailwalker Dani Moss rounded the Ashford results up with 58:40.
Volunteers, to whom we are eternally grateful, were Peter Broom, Jason Caldwell, Dermot Carr, Nic Crawley, Don Dewar, Sharon Gardner, Lisa Gribbin, Siobhan Hagan, Simon Jackson, Dani Moss, Richard Randle, Terry Sellen, Kevan Strand and Justine Wearn. A big thanks to you all!
Striders on tour this weekend included Lee Standen who was at Pymmes and completed that in 33:56. Sally Davidson-Daniel completed Tonbridge in 31:05 and Dartford was the choice for Mark Niles and he finished in 22:26.
Sundays main event was obviously the A&D 10 & 5 mile races but we did have a couple of strays. Lorna Cheshire took on the SVN Werewolf Ultra Marathon and completed that in 6:21:27 to earn herself a PB. Well done Lorna! Dave Helme chose to do the Bedgebury Half Marathon and completed in 2:27:28.
Onto the Ashford action and once again Striders were well represented with some choosing to really get into the Halloween spirit with some brilliant costumes being worn by our runners. The course was also flooded in places which only adds creditability to the outstanding performances from you all.
Halloween 10 Mile The notable individual performances were headed by an incredible run by Cherith Wright who achieved a PB of 1:20:14 and a podium place as third lady. Congratulations Cherith. Everyone is extremely proud of you! Three more of our runners also achieved a ten mile PB in the form of Jamie Penfold (1:25:40), Jason Kennedy (1:26:30) and Dermot Carr (1:28:38). Congratulations to you all. Also competing in the ten miler and all putting in great performances were Kate Stroud (1:32:37), Richard Randle (1:34:37), Hazel Winchester (1:35:20) and Dave Winchester (1:35:21).
The Halloween 5 mile also turned up some great Strider results. Notably were Keith Haynes (33:09) who won his age group category. Nigel Hills (40:19) a PB and also first place in his age category and Shiny 5 mile PBs for Justin Burden (39:12), Julie Foster (1:04:06), Pauline Tallett (49:08)and Dee Millen (59:55). Great running all of you and those PBs are well deserved.
The remaining Strider contingent in the 5 mile event finished as follows: Simon Pharoah (42:37), Dan Schwartz (44:32), Sonette Schwartz (52:40), Siobhan Hagan (52:42), Josh Stephens (53:34), Michelle Brice (54:44), Michelle Bryant (55:33), Sharon Gardner (1:00:07), Adam Thomas (1:00:08), Vicky Shrubsole (1:00:09), Jack Farrant (1:00:09) and Sharni Copham (1:00:10).
Once again, well done everyone on a remarkable weekend for our club!
Report by Andy Found.

I hope that you’ve all had a great week, and made the most of today’s sunshine after what can only be described as a bit of a wet one for much of this week! As usual, this weekend has been jam-packed with runners running and walkers walking, at official races, at various Parkruns, and also, just for ‘fun’.

We’ll start, as ever, with Ashford’s results. The weather was wet, but not freezing, and there was a bit of a headwind in places so well done to all who braved Victoria Park to clock up another Parkrun. Keith Haynes was first Strider in, with a Sub 20 time of 19:36, next in and with a lovely PB was Adrian Green at 20:21, Jamie Penfold came in next at 23:42, Terry Sellen at 23:54, Jack Farrant dragged himself round the course in 24:02, Simon Pharoah, 25:48; Daniel Schwartz, 25:49, Jamie Bartlett, 26:04; Jason Kennedy, 26:12; Andy Found, 26:48; Frank Remigio, 27:04; Dave Helme, 27:41. First Lady Strider through was Elle Weekes in 28:09; Jason Sanders was next in 28:48; Kevin York, 29:05; Nicola Crawley, 29:23; Vicky Stevenson, 29:37; David Gadsby, 30:03; Amanda James, 30:46; Lee Standen, 31:33; Hazel Turner, 31:34; Justine Wearn, 32:38; Michelle Brice, 33:35; Sally Davidson-Daniel, 33:51; Jennifer Watts, 35:09; Hazel Forrester, 35:10; Laura Clark, 37:44 and then Rachel Tomsett rounded off the Strider’s massive, coming in with a time of 40:57!
Volunteers this week included Jason Caldwell, Nic Crawley, Don Dewar, Sara Dewar, Julie Foster, Simon Jackson, Richard Randle, Terry Sellen and Justine Wearn, heartfelt thanks to all who volunteer, meaning that Parkrun can go ahead! If you can volunteer, it’s a great thing to do. You also have more chance of getting on Santa’s good list, so, you know, definitely worthwhile!
Parkrun Tourism
Brighton and Hove – Justin Burden completed this course in 22:48
Eastbourne – We had 3 Striders representing the club in Eastbourne; Dermot Carr came in at 25:36 followed by Lynette Whittingham at 50:55 and Martin Whittingham at 52:35.
Margate – Mark Niles completed this coastal Parkrun in 22:15.
Foots Cray – Lisa Fulcher attended this 5k and came in at 36:50, also earning herself a 2nd female in age group and 33rd position overall!
Dover Waterfront – Tamsin Ritchie ventured to Dover, completed the run in 27:30 and then went home to a lovely stew!
Beachy Head Ultra Marathon
Saturday saw some of our hardcore members brave the weather, the mud and the hills over 50km, all for a tiny little medal! (Spoiler, it was HUGE!)
Mandy Cooper crossed the line first in 8:32:58. Siobhan Hagan, Lisa Gribbin and Rachel Misson all came over the finish line together in 8:36:58. Amazing work, well done!
Beachy Head Half Marathon
Sunday and still in Beachy Head, beautiful sunshine had chased away the rain but it wasn’t enough to dry up the mud bath. Jayne Hatton, still trying to cling on to wearing shorts, had to resort to Capris (and long sleeves) as there was a distinct Autumnal chill in the air! According to my sources, we had nine Striders completing the Half Marathon with first to cross the line Jason Kennedy, in 2:11:48. Next in and chuffed with his course PB was Ian Watson at 2:33:16. This next lot all came through the finish together so there are seconds between them, neck and neck were Andy Found and Dermot Carr 2:56:34, Jayne Hatton, still buzzing from her Bruges PB last week, was next with 2:56:36, Justine Wearn was a second later with 2:56:37, then Jo Mason with 2:56:38. Jason Wearn finished with a twirl flourish in 2:57:12 and then Rachel Tomsett came over the finish in 3:05:19! Well done to all! Beachy Head 10K One Strider completed this race, Pauline Tallet, who came in on 1:07:27, well done Pauline!

Maidstone Half Marathon
To round off this weekend’s races, we finish in Maidstone for the half Marathon where we saw five of our members take part, 3 of whom earned themselves shiny new PB’s! Graham Troman finished this race first, completing it, with a PB, in 2:00:36, Daniel Schwartz was next with a finish time of 2:03:42 and another PB. Chloe Darling, also earning a PB, came in at 2:25:32, Scott Hawkins finished in at 2:27:41 and then, last but by no means least was the lovely Sonette Schwatrz, completing the race in 2:28:03
That’s all from me for now, just a quick reminder, the clocks go back next week so we’ll get an extra hour before the Halloween 5 and 10 milers on Sunday, don’t forget or you’ll be hanging around Towers school for an extra hour. Have a great week everyone and may see you at various club events during the week!
Report by Sharon Gardner.

Ashford parkrun
The temperature dropped but the sun was shining which made for perfect running conditions in Ashford. Special mention to Siobhan Hagan who was celebrating her 100th parkrun and Keith Haynes, Simon Pharoah, Graham Troman, Jenny Watts and Lynnette Whittingham who all gained new PBs.
Keith Haynes was the first Strider to finish coming through in under 20 minutes in 19.21. Keith was followed by Adam Booth 19.48, Jack Farrant in 23.21, Terry Sellen in 24.08 and Simon Pharoah in 24.12. The first Strider lady to finish was Claire Green in 24.43 followed by Daniel Schwartz 24.44, Graham Troman 24.45, Dermot Carr 26.12 and David Helme 26.41. Tamsin Ritchie, Aimee Donoghue and Jo Mason were next through in 26.53, 27.34 and 27.53 respectively. Armed with celebratory 100 parkrun cakes, Siobhan Hagan finished in 29.41, followed by Kevin York 29.56, Catherine Wall in 30.59 and Rita Cooke in 31.22. Jenny Watts, Rachel Oliver and Dave Warner were next through in 32.19, 32.47 and 32.49 respectively. Rachel and Brian Forrester were next to finish in 33.24 and 33.46, followed by Michelle Bryant 34.11, Hazel Forrester 34.58, Rachel Tomsett 35.39 and Pauline Tallett in 37.29. Kirsty Theobald was the next Strider through in 38.11, followed by Heather Fraser 38.18, Adrian Green 39.06, Jason Sanders 39.40 and Danielle Moss 41.47. Don and Sara Dewar both finished in 45.18, followed by Lynette and Martin Whittingham in 56.39 and 56.40 respectively with Lisa Gribbin completing the Strider line up in 56.41.
Thank you to all the volunteers who make parkrun happen with Strider representation this week from Jason Caldwell, Siobhan Hagan, Scott Hawkins, Peter Heckel, Kevan Strand, Graham Troman, Justine Wearn, Lynette Whittingham and Martin Whittingham.
Parkrun Tourism
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Mike Niles was the sole Strider in Tunbridge Wells completing in 23.12.
Queen Elizabeth parkrun
Completing Q in the parkrun alphabet Jamie Penfold finished the Queen Elizabeth parkrun in 26.42
Great Lines Parkrun
Travelling to Medway, George Cromwell, Sharon Gardner, Vicky Shrubsole and Lucie Shrubsole completed the Great Lines parkrun in 26.46, 30.59, 33.16 and 33.16 respectively.
Folkestone parkrun
Justin Burden was the first Strider to complete the Folkestone parkrun in 22.16, followed by Chris Sardo in 23.06, Amanda Cooper in 27.58 and Laura Clark in 38.39.
Downsview parkrun
Karen Griffiths completed the Downsview parkrun in 32.09
Run to the Sea Bournemouth
Three brave Striders travelled to the south coast on Saturday to take part in the Run to the Sea ultramarathon 50k. Advertised as a flat beautifully scenic course, Kay Hunt completed the course in 6.12.17 with Adam Thomas just one second behind. Putting to bed unfinished business from 2020, Lisa Fulcher completed in 8.38.53.
Great South Run
The biggest 10-mile race took place in Southsea on Sunday with four striders taking part. Tammy Brooks and Chloe Darling finishing side by side in 1.35.14 which was a personal best for Tammy. Also, both finishing fantastically together was Justine Wearn and Emma Matthews in 1.59.48 which was also a huge personal best for Emma.
Bruges Half Marathon
Four Striders travelled further afield this weekend to take on the Bruges half marathon in Belgium. Club Chairman Andy Found smashed his PB with a time of 1.58.33 followed by Gayle Bailey in 2.05.18, Vicky Stevenson in 2.08.19 and Jayne Hatton who also got her half marathon personal best with 2.16.38.
Huge well done to everyone this week.
Report by Danielle Moss

Apparently it’s autumn, but you wouldn’t think it on this very warm weekend! Lots of Striders were racing this weekend, who were probably hoping for cooler weather when they signed up.
As ever, the weekend started with Saturday morning parkruns. Ashford parkrun saw the usual good turnout with a fair few running who were also racing on Sunday. Finishers were: Andrew Maund 22:16, Justin Burden 22:28, Dan Green 22:35, Terry Sellen 24:15, Ian McCutcheon 25:00, Daniel Schwartz 25:07, Richard Randle 25:39, Cherith Wright 27:24, Scott Hawkins 27:49, Simon Pharoah 29:19, Rachel Tomsett 30:31, David Gadsby 30:39, Jason Brice 31:24, Leigh Freeman 32:58, John Latter 33:31, Delia Millen 33:43, Siobhan Hagan 34:25, Lee Standen 34:33, Justine Wearn 35:30, Laura Clark 39:16, Julie Foster 41:03, Lynnette Whittingham who continues to improve with a new PB of 57:57, Martin Whittingham 57:59 and Graham Troman 57:59.
Striders volunteering at Ashford were: Darren Laker, Dermot Carr, Jason Caldwell, Jennifer Watts, Katie Exon, Lynnette Whittingham, Peter Broom, Peter Heckel, Rachel Oliver, Simon Jackson, Siobhan Hagan and Terry Sellen.
Five Striders visited a variety of parkruns in Kent: Pegwell Bay – Jamie Penfold 23:12, Folkestone – Kate Stroud 26:46, Sittingbourne – Lisa Fulcher 36:21 and Dover Waterfront – George Cromwell 26:34 and Nicola Crawley 27:36, who both scored new course PBs.
Further afield, Don Dewar was visiting Newcastle Under Lyme and ran The Wammy parkrun in 29:37. Norfolk was the destination for Mark Nikes who finished the woodland run at Sandringham parkrun in 22:22. Lydia Huntley ran Oxford’s University Parks parkrun in 25:03 and Stephen Cleaver was in Buxton and finished the Pavilion Gardens parkrun in 25:37. Across the pond, Lisa Gribbin was warming up for her marathon by completing the Chicago 5k in 29:22.
Also racing on Saturday was Jason Kennedy he was in East Sussex completing an exhausting Spartan Ultra, which consisted of a 50km run with 60 demanding obstacles to overcome on the way. His finishing time was 10:12:50, a massive well done Jason!
On Sunday the popular local race, the Givaudan Ashford 10k always sees a great turnout from the club – running, volunteering and supporting all around the town centre road race.
The finishers in red were: Keith Haynes 0:39:31, Steve Greatorex 0:46:20, Simon Pharoah 0:46:53, Nigel Hills 0:47:05, Justin Burden 0:47:45, Jack Farrant 0:48:52, Jamie Penfold 0:49:18, Brian Marsh 0:49:35, Graham Troman 0:49:42, Terry Sellen 0:49:52, Paul Dunning 0:50:13, Cherith Wright 0:50:40, Dermot Carr 0:51:32, Dave Winchester 0:52:04, Andy Found 0:52:07, Chris Wicks 0:52:47, Jen Davis 0:53:09, Jamie Bartlett 0:53:35, Rachel Phillips 0:54:37, Phil Lowe 0:55:31, Matt Elvy 0:56:03, Darren Laker 0:56:04, Josh Stephens 0:56:19, Dave Helme 0:56:37, Karen Lavender 0:56:52, Scott Hawkins 0:57:02, Siobhan Hagan 0:58:00, Rita Cooke 1:01:41, Michelle Bryant 1:02:18, David Gadsby 1:03:40, Michelle Brice 1:05:46, Jenny Watts 1:05:57, Martin Whittingham 1:10:07, Angie Craffey 1:10:19, Rachel Oliver 1:10:45, Julie Nicholson 1:17:15, Nicola Gwatkin 1:17:16, Julie Foster 1:22:04, and Sharon Meadows 1:23:45.
Despite the course not being as flat as the race organisers described the following all earned themselves new PBs: Keith, Steve, Brian, Graham, Cherith, Dermot, Andy, Phil, Matt, Rita, Michelle Brice, Jenny, Nicola and Sharon. Well done everyone, especially those getting a new personal best!
Many thanks also to everyone volunteering and supporting, there were lots of great photos on the Facebook group. Those that I know volunteered were: Lynette Whittingham, Sharon Gardner, Don Dewar and Sara Dewar.
Royal Parks Half
In the capital, several club members took on this popular and scenic half marathon around the parks of central London. Eleanor Weekes was first Strider with a PB of 2:16:31 then Nadine Golding 2:22:41, Jason Sanders 2:27:42 and Peter Broom 2:37:11
Last race of the day was the Chicago Marathon, the cooler temperatures in the Windy City were much more favourable for a race than conditions at home. Two Strider were racing this one and they both earned themselves shiny new personal bests! Aimee Donohue finished in a great time of 4:43:39 and close on her heels was Lisa Gribbin with 4:44:59, very well done ladies!
That brings to a close another awesome weekend of running, I hope you all are enjoying a well earned rest now!
Report by Lisa Fulcher.

Ashford parkrun
As always let’s start at our home turf where we had wonderful representation. Keith Haynes lead the pack for Striders and achieved a fantastic PB in a time of 19.27 you are literally flying. Adam Booth was next to cross the line in 19.40, followed by Dan Green in 22.18 and Justin Burden in 22.36. Terry Sellen ran through the final tunnel in 24.10, Daniel Schwartz got a time of 24.30, Josh Stephens got our 2nd PB of the morning in a fab time of 26.54. Well done! The next bunch of Striders finishing were Christopher Wicks (27.02), David Helme (27.14), Scott Hawkins (27.31), our first lady home Tasmin Ritchie (27.36), Amanda James (29.46) and rounding up our sub 30s for the morning was Simon Pharoah (29.53). Rita Cooke, Mike Mason, Rachel Oliver and Dave Warner achieved finish times of 30.39, 32.37, 32.42 and 32.59 respectively. A flurry of Striders came next and must of dominated that finish tunnel, Jason Brice achieved 33.10, Chris Kelly 33.20, Jennifer Watts 33.24, Michelle Brice 33.29 and Peter Broom 33.33. Husband and Wife duo Brian and Hazel Forrester finished next with Brian just pipping Hazel (35.12) to the post with a time of 34.32. Lisa Fulcher achieved a time of 35.21, the 3rd PB of the day was achieved by Laura Clark (37.43) well done Laura, Siobhan Hagan (running with her daughter) finished the 5k route in 39.54 with Dermot Carr being their running cheerleader and finished in 40.16. Rounding up Team Striders at Victoria Park was Danielle Moss finishing in 43.30. Fantastic running everyone.
A big thank you to this weeks volunteers Michelle Bryant, Jason Caldwell, Sharni Copham, Julie Foster, Sharon Gardener, Simon Jackson, Tasmin Ritchie and special recognition goes to Lee Standon who reached his 100th parkrun volunteer credit. Without the hi-vis hero’s there will be no parkrun so huge appreciation to everyone who gives up their time on a Saturday morning to allow everyone to run.
parkrun Tourism
Striders were definitely out and about with lots tying in a parkrun before Sunday race day.
Local county parkruns were finished by George Cromwell at Walmer and Deal in 26.16 & at Dover Waterfront were Mark Niles who completed the route in 22.03 and Mandy Cooper who finished in 27.23. Amazing running by all.
University Parks was completed by Lydia Huntley in 24.47, Brandon Country Park by Claire Green in 39.51. Teignmouth Promenade was finished by Richard Randle (27.25) and Dee Millen (33.16). Fantastic times everyone and impressive tourism.
On to the guys who didn’t think their booked races on Sunday were enough so decided to visit parkruns on the way to or local to their races, dedication there guys. Lisa Gribbin and Rachel Misson stopped off at Ifield Mill Pond on the way to the Loch Ness Marathon where their Strider tops were recognised and club praised following last weeks Ashford takeover. Lisa finished in 31.18 and Rachel completed the 5k in 31.37. Rachel Tomsett and Angela Craffey were both taking a trip to Wales for the Cardiff half marathon. Angela finished the Penallta parkrun in the Welsh valleys in 33.31. Pontypridd was run by Rachel Tomsett in 36.54. Finally Nicola Crawley and Justine Wearn won the award for farthest afield parkrun this week, they were in the Netherlands for Singeloop Breda 10k so partook in Waterakkers parkrun both achieving top 10 finishes in 28.44 (Nicola) and 29.46 (Justine). Hugely impressive by all!
Rhino Run 5k
There’s not often a race briefing has to include be aware of escaped animals but when it involves running around Port Lympne Wildlife park then better to be safe. Four Striders took part in the very hilly 5k but the views, animals and medal all made up for the 2nd half’s continuous hill. Dave Winchester was the 1st Strider to finish in 27.57, George Cromwell was next across the line in 30.42, Kevin Miller achieved a chip time of 33.55 and Kirsty Theobald got a finish time of 43.11. Well done all.
Tonbridge 5k, 10k, Half
A group of Striders travelled over to Tonbridge with no one picking the 5k option but we had representatives in both the 10k and half distances.
Martin Whittingham chose 10k, finishing the distance in 1hr 20.02. Completing the half during the beautiful sunny Sunday and achieving sub 2hrs PB in 1hr 58.32 was Dermott Carr. Amazing! Siobhan Hagan got a time of 2hr 13.23, David Helme finished in 2hr 17.37, Michelle Bryant knocked minutes of her half time and obtained a PB of 2hr 30.14 and lastly but no means least Sally Davidson-Daniel completed the route in 2hrs 39.50. Just fantastic!
A big high five to Lynette Whittingham for volunteering at Tonbridge, each and every runner appreciates the support.
Singellhopp Breda
Over the waters in The Netherlands – Nicola Crawley & Justine Wearn completed their strong ‘rennen’ for the weekend finishing the popular 10k in 1hr 06.26 and 1hr 07.50 respectively. Not sure the after run snacks were too popular with the ladies though.
Maverick Terrex Series
Completing Goodwood on 2 legs rather than 4 was Jason Kennedy who ran the trail distance of 15k at the Maverick Terrex series. Jason crossed the finish line on the Goodwood course in a time of 1hr 26.59. Well done.
Cardiff Half Marathon
Cardiff half marathon was celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. Flying the flag for Ashford Striders were Rachel Tomsett and Angie Craffey who decided to tackle the hilly course and achieved times of 2hr 29.03 and 2hrs 49.18 respectively. Great running ladies.
Loch Ness Marathon
Not sure if Nessie was spotted or not but Lisa Gribbin and Rachel Misson were completing the Loch Ness Marathon. Both crossed the line together in an exact same time of 5hrs 16.56. The marathon girls continue to smash it.
That completes the weekend’s line up. I hope everyone has had a fab weekend and all are proud of their achievements whether it was at parkrun, races or runs of their own accord. The sun will continue to have his hat on in the coming week so remember to keep up the hydration and enjoy.
Report by Kirsty Theobald.

Saturday saw the third Strider Park Run Takeover of the year and this one was just as spectacular as the previous two as the Red Army converged on Victoria Park in Ashford armed with flags, cameras, lots of cakes and most importantly, Pacers, Marshals, Supporters and Runners. 250 people turned up in total and 43 of them achieved a PB and I’d like to think that our pacers played a huge part in helping them achieve them.
Onto the run itself then and Adam Booth and Keith Haynes (pacer)were first through the funnel in 19:49, outstanding pacing Keith! Adrian Green was doing his first ever Park run and paced at 22 mins. Anyone following him would have been well happy (or dead) as he crossed the line in 20:26. Jack Farrant paced at 24 mins and finished in 23:47 (Follow me for more tips on pacing Jack) and Terry Sellen finished in 24:45. Daniel Schwartz got 24:57 with Adam Thomas close behind in 25:12. Dan Green pacing at 26 finished in 25:49 and Stephen Cleaver achieved 26:07. Claire Green paced for 27 and got her followers through on 26:41 closely followed by Chloe Darling on 26:48. The 28 minute pacer was Darren Laker and he got round in 28:12. Mark Niles and Andy Found (29 pacer) got round in 28:52 (Better pacing than Jack Farrant!) with Sonette Shwartz and Mandy Cooper (30 Pacer) making up the sub 30s with 29:39 and 29:53 respectively.
Leigh Freeman recorded 30:34 and Jayne Hatton 31:11 and they were followed by the ever improving Michelle Brice who notched up yet another PB with 31:55…great effort Michelle! Jason Brice pacing at 32 minutes got round in 31:58 and I think he was the King pacer of the day just two seconds off his target time! Another PB was achieved by Melissa Dawkins with 33:02, Well done Melissa! And she was followed in by Chris Kelly (34 pacer) in 34:56. Kevin York got a time of 36:03 and Sharni Copham, celebrating her 100th Park Run, came through in 36:10. Vicky Shrubsole (36 pacer) and Heather Fraser were the next two Striders with respective times of 36:32 and 39:11. Rachel Oliver, pacing for 40 mins, got round in 39:15 and Tail-walkers Joanna Whitehead and Dani Moss completed in 59:39.
Of course a huge thanks to the other Strider Volunteers who helped make the day such a huge success. I’ve already mentioned the pacers so others were Tammy Brooks, Jason Caldwell, Rita Cooke, Sara Dewar, Paul Dunning, Holly Forrest, Brian Forrester, Hazel Forrester, Julie Foster, Lisa Fulcher, Sharon Gardner, Peter Heckel, David Helme, Katie Exon, Amanda James, Rebecca James, Nadine Golding, Sarah Martins, Andrew Maund, Clare Maxlow, Simon Pharoah, Rachel Phillips, Tamsin Ritchie, Ashley Robinson, Chris Sardo, Lucie Shrubsole, Kevin Strand, Kirsty Theobold, Rachel Tomsett, Graham Troman, Dave Warner, Ian Watson, Jennifer Watts, Paul Baker and Dave Winchester.
Despite the huge Strider numbers at Ashford we still had representation elsewhere and most of them were at Woolwich for the Thames Path event. Dermot Carr completed that in 24:56 followed by Peter Broom (30:44), Martin Whittingham (32:38), Siobhan Hagan (40:40), Lisa Gribbin (40:19), Lee Standen (40:20) and Michelle Bryant (40:21).
Paul Baker was at Canterbury and completed in 29:22 whilst Catherine Wall was at Dunfermline and managed 30:54. Lydia Huntley completed University Parks in 25:40 and Justin Burden, Nicola Crawley and Sally Davidson-Daniel were all at Dover and recorded respective times of 22:13, 28:52 and 32:09. Laura Clark also ran at Dover and achieved a PB of 39:12.

Sunday saw a huge number of Striders racing at various locations. Jason Kennedy completed the 20 mile Nuclear Race Oblivion Max in 7:05:41 and Simon Richter achieved 48:00 at the Dartford Bridge 10K.
At the tough, windy Four Castles Half Marathon Jamie Bartlett finished in 2:10:43, Kate Stroud 2:18:26 and Sharni Copham 2:52:02
And finally we had the Vitality 10000 (10K) in London and Jack Farrant led the way there with a PB run of 47:28 and he was followed in by Josh Stephens with another PB run of 55:32. Kay Hunt and Adam Thomas came in neck and neck with 57:02 followed by Siobhan Hagan with 57:27. Lucie Shrubsole was another to achieve a PB with 1:00:12 and yet another PB went to George Cromwell with 1:00:19. Michelle Bryant recorded a 1:02:35 finish with Lisa Fulcher not far behind in 1:04:17. Sharon Gardner completed in 1:05:51 and Vicky Shrubsole in 1:06:45. Michelle Brice finished in 1:07:18 and Julie Foster completed the Strider Lineup in London with a time of 1:25:06. Last but not least Dermot Carr and Angie Craffey both completed the Virtual Vitality 10000 with times of 1:06:04 and 1:20:00
Well done everyone on an excellent weekend of running, Marshalling and supporting. I hope you all have a great week.
Report by Andy Found.

Ashford Parkrun this week was an A&D takeover week, and I am reliably informed that the cakes were as amazing as the participant turnout! 282 Runners, Joggers and Walkers took part this week, 39 of whom were representing Ashford Striders. Justin Burden was first through the funnel in 22:16, with Andrew Maund hot on his heels at 22:29. Continuing his impressive form with another PB was Dermot Carr coming in at 24:09. Terry Sellen was next through in 24:18, followed by Dan Green in 24:45. This was Dan’s 250th Parkrun which in itself is monumental but Dan was also at the first Ashford Parkrun! Congratulations Dan! Graham Troman was next, earning himself a PB with 24:54. First lady Strider through was Claire Green who sailed through in 25:12! Andy Found was next in; 25:41, Stephen Cleaver; 25:46, Darren Laker; 26:19, Jo Mason finished in a lovely and neat 28 minutes exactly! Kevin York was just behind at 28:13 and then with another PB was Katie Fox with 28:25. Dave Helme came in at 28:47, followed by Amanda Cooper; 29:54. Catherine Wall came through at 30:23, Jayne Hatton; 31:04, Lisa Fulcher; 31:21, Rita Cooke; 31:27, Jason Brice; 31.34, Siobhan Hagan; 31:40, Michelle Bryant; 32:07, Leigh Freeman; 32:09, and then Nadine Lidbury, completing her 10th parkrun in 32:22 (She was supported by Stanley, who got a PB, but not an official one because he didn’t have his Doggy-parkrun-barcode!). We look forward to celebrating Ned’s 25th in about 10 years’ time! Sharni Copham, was next and came in at 32:38. Michelle Brice finished another strong week of running and crossed the line in 32:48. Dee Millen came in at 33:16, Sally Davidson-Daniel; 33:58, Peter Broom; 34:28, Chris Kelly; 35:42, Dave Warner came in at 35:44, Jennifer Watts; 35:54, and then Sharon Meadows finished in 36:38 and earned a lovely PB in the process! Hazel Forrester crossed the line in 37:53, Julie Foster; 40:01, Kevan Strand 42:03 and finally was Mark Niles who rounded up the Strider’s contingent and finished in 48:12!
All volunteers this week were provided by A&D – thank you to all who volunteer and please do look at the upcoming schedules to see if you can help one week. (Next week is Striders takeover!)
Parkrun Tourism
Dover Waterfront Parkrun proved popular for our members this week with seven Striders visiting. Jamie Penfold was first to the funnel in 22:40, George Cromwell was next in, and with a PB, at 27:07, Justine Wearn finished in 30:44, Martin Whittingham; 31:56, Vicky and Lucie Shrubsole came in together at 32:04 and then Nicola Crawley (Tailwalker!) finished in 52:38.
Lydia Huntley took part in the University Parks Parkrun completing the 5k in 26:56.
Daniel and Sonette Shwartz were in Oxford and completed the Parkrun there in 27:06 and 29:54 respectively.
Aimee Donohue completed the Kingston Parkrun and finished in 31:42.
Lee Standen was in Southampton and did their parkrun, completing in a time of 32:17!
Well done to all Parkrunners!

Of the official races this weekend, both the Larkfield 10k and the Faversham 10k saw a Striders representation.
Justin Burden and Jenny Watts went to Faversham to complete the 10k. Justin finished in 48:33 and Jenny finished in 1:11:08.
Larkfield, I hear was lovely, with comments circulating about how enjoyable the run was! First to finish the Larkfield 10k was Keith Haynes who finished in 40:51, then Claire Green with 53:16. Andy Found was just behind with 55:54; Amanda James came in at 1:01:53, Vicky Stevenson was next with 1:02:21. Sara Dewar completed her run in 1:10:24 and then Kirsty Theobald finished in 1:21:14
Last but not least, yesterday saw the Maverick Adidas Terrex Race. This is a selection of trail races all over the country and varying distances. Yesterday, Josh Stephen took part in the 23km version in Kent and completed in a very respectable time of 3:21:40.
Well done to all racers and runners this week – smashed it!
Well I’m afraid that brings this week’s report, and my waffle, to a close! I hope you all have a fantastic week and if you do need a bit more waffle, I’ll see you at club!
Report by Sharon Gardner.

A huge well done to all those that ran and raced this weekend whilst in the middle of a September heatwave. This week saw some great races and lots of parkrun tourism.
We start this week on Friday evening as we did last week.
Great North 5K
Simon Pharoah took part in a warmup to the Great North run in the Great North 5K which he completed in 23.20.
Parkrun
Ashford parkrun
Starting at home, 257 people ran, jogged or walked the 430th Ashford parkrun in the sunshine. Keith Haynes was the first Strider to finish in a time of 20.07, Graham Troman was next through achieving a PB of 25.07, Terry Sellen was close behind in 25.21. Lydia Huntley was the first Strider lady to finish in 25.44, followed by Claire Green in 26.59, David Helme in 29.58, Amanda James in 30.18 and Andy Found in 30.18. Amanda Cooper was just one second behind Andy in 30.19 followed by Vicky Stevensen in 31.01, Catherine Wall in 31.37, Jason Brice in 32.33, Leigh Freeman in 32.34. Celebrating her 25th parkrun Michell Brice completed the course in 32.59, followed by Sara Dewar in 34.05, Jennifer Watts in 35.02, Dave Warner in 39.03, Sharon Meadows in 40.21, Rachel Theobald in 43.44 and Kevin York in 43.45.
Huge thank you to the volunteers, who without, parkrun cannot take place. Jason Caldwell, Dan Green, Simon Jackson, Darren Laker, Jo Mason, Andrew Maund, Terry Sellen and Kevan Strand.
Zuiderpark parkrun
Travelling 258 miles to Holland, Martin and Lynette Whittingham got their Z for the parkrun alphabet at the Zuiderpark parkrun finishing in 35.39 and 1.05.24 respectively.
Edinburgh parkrun
Lisa Gribbin made the journey up to Scotland before her Great North Run adventure and completed the Edinburgh parkrun with a brand new shiny PB of 28.01.
Moors Valley parkrun
Richard Randle and Dee Millen travelled to Dorset on their way to the New Forest half marathon and completed the Moors Valley parkrun in 34.52 and 34.51 respectively.
Lymington Woodside parkrun
Also on their way to the New Forest Jason Wearn and Chris Sardo completed the Lymington Woodside parkrun in 24.10 and 24.37 with Nadine Golding, Justine Wearn and Nicki Crawley finishing in 50.23, 50.25 and 50.29.
Gateshead parkrun
Another Strider in the northeast for the Great North Run was Simon Pharoah who as well as running on Friday also took part in the Gateshead parkrun finishing in 26.12
Folkestone parkrun
Staying closer to home was Hazel Turner and Tamsin Ritchie who completed Folkestone in 26.06 and 28.59.
Bedgebury Pinetum
Rachel Tomsett travelled to Bedgebury and completed the 5K in 32.53
Millfield parkrun
Also heading north was Daniel Schwartz who was in North Yorkshire taking part in the Millfield parkrun completing in 29.49
Irchester parkrun
Yet another Strider heading north up the motorway for the Great North Run, Dermot Carr stopped off at Irchester parkrun finishing in 27.25
Mote Park parkrun
Justin Burden headed towards Maidstone and completed the Mote Park parkrun in 24.21
Thornham Walks parkrun
Scott Hawkins travelled East to Suffolk taking part in the Thornham Walks parkrun finishing in 29.29
Dover Waterfront parkrun
Taking part in the inaugural Dover Waterfront parkrun was Lorna Cheshire, Siobhan Hagan, Rachel Misson and Michelle Bryant completing the course in 27.51, 31.24, 32.04 and 32.40 respectively.
The Great North Run
Sharing the same course as Sir Mo Farah’s last competitive race, 13 Striders made the long journey North for the Great North Run 2023. Michael Davies was the first Strider to complete the half marathon in 1.36.33, followed by Simon Richter in 1.57.27. Next to finish was Simon Pharoah in 2.01.06 closely followed by Dermot Carr who celebrated a personal best in 2.04.21.Daniel Schwartz was next in 2.17.45 with Lisa Gribbin close behind in 2.21.25. Sally Davidson-Daniel finished in 2.27.17 a personal best for her with Jayne Hatton completing in 2.28.55 followed by Ian Watson in 2.31, Sonette Schwartz and Sharon Gardner in 2.36.06 and 2.36.32. Taking part in her first half marathon, Julie Nicholson completed in 3.24.32.
New Forest Marathon/Half/10K
Further south and faced with rain 12 Striders headed to the picturesque New Forest taking part in the half marathon and 10k events.
Nikki Crawley completed the 10K in 1.17.27. Chris Sardo was the first Strider to finish the half in 1.49.45 followed by Jason Caldwell and Richard Randle in 1.51.09 and 1.59.55 respectively. Vicky Stevenson was next to finish in 2.13.02 closely followed by Amanda Cooper in 2.19.57. Andy Found was next through in 2.26.17 followed closely by Nadine Golding (2.26.25) Justine Wearn (2.26.29), Rita Cooke (2.26.29) and Jason Wearn (2.26.30). Dee Millen, taking part in her first half marathon crossed the line in 2.47.31.
Rye Ancient Trails 30k & 15k
Even closer to home but faced with the heat and hills in Rye, 11 Striders took part in the Rye Ancient Trails which was either a distance of 30k or 15k.
Taking part in the 30K was Jason Kennedy completing the distance in 3.29.47. Siobhan Hagan, Rachel Misson and Becky Somerford all came through the finish line after 30K in 5.48.37, 5.48.43 and 5.48.43. In the 15k distance Tamsin Ritchie was first to finish in 2.04.35 followed by Kay Hunt and Adam Thomas in 2.10.02 and 2.10.03, they were closely followed by Darren Laker in 2.11.51 and Josh Stephens in 2.15.51. Vicky Shrubsole and Sharni Copham completed the race in 2.41.49 and 2.42.35.
Report by Danielle Moss.

Rye Summer Series

This week we start with the final race in the Rye Summer Series, this time the distance was 5k. Finishing this Friday evening race were Justin Burden, who was first Strider with a time of 22:33, next was Josh Stephens scoring a personal best time of 26:31. Dermot Carr finished in 26:46 then Dee Millen 32:47 and Danielle Moss 39:34. Great racing everyone!

Ashford parkrun.
The weather turned warmer and more humid on Saturday but despite that there was a good attendance and several personal bests at Ashford parkrun.
Keith Haynes headed the Strider field with 20:05, followed by Andrew Maund with a time of 21:16. Justin Burden raced the previous evening but still managed a parkrun PB of 22:02. Jamie Penfold and Simon Pharoah both got personal bests with times of 23:06 and 25:02 respectively. Hazel Turner was first Strider lady with 25:37, followed by Aimee Donohue 26:53, Jason Kennedy 27:04, David Gadsby 27:43, Darren Laker 27:48, Don Dewar 27:58, Jason Brice 28:39, Jo Mason 28:41 and David Helme 29:27. Katie Fox ran her first ever parkrun in 29:29, Rita Cooke achieved her aim of a sub-30 finish with a PB of 29:46. Dermot Carr finished his 25th parkrun in 29:46, next was Martin Whittingham 31:53, Michelle Brice 32:58, Sharni Copham 33:25, Brian Forrester 33:40, Rachel Theobald 34:07, Kevin York 34:07, Delia Millen 35:29, Nadine Golding 36:51, Sharon Meadows 37:50, Siobhan Hagan 38:22, Lisa Gribbin 38:22, Julie Foster 41:27, Danielle Moss 42:10 and Hazel Forrester 42:11.
Club members volunteering at Ashford this week were: Peter Broom, Michelle Bryant, Jason Caldwell, Peter Heckel, Terry Sellen and Kevan Strand. Thanks all of you for your efforts this week!

parkrun tourism
Several Striders were on tour this week. Staying in Kent was Mark Niles completing the run around the lake at Tonbridge in a time of 21:38. In West London, Justine Wearn and Nicola Crawley finished Northala Fields parkrun in 30:43 and 30:46 respectively.
Further afield, Daniel and Sonette Schwartz were at Sizewell on the Suffolk coast, finishing in 26:18 and 30:47 respectively. It was their second time at this parkrun and Daniel achieved a PB for that event. Furthest travelled was Richard Randall, who was up north for his triathlon so he attended Clumber Park parkrun in Nottinghamshire and finished in 26:49
Also on Saturday was the Folkestone Downs Challenge in aid of Pilgrims Hospice. This is a hilly trail event that starts with a climb of around 160m up from Folkestone Harbour but finishes more gently with a flat section alongside the canal and seafront. This is an untimed event and the Striders completing the challenge were Tamsin Ritchie, Rachel Tomsett, Rachel Misson, Claire Green and Lisa Fulcher. Well done ladies!
Sunday was very warm and sticky, providing tough conditions for the large number of Striders racing that day. A new race this year was the Dover Seafront 10k. The event had timing issues and the results could be subject to correction! Jamie Penfold did really well considering the weather, achieving a 10k personal best of 49:35. Hazel Turner was next Strider with 54:02, Kay Hunt finished in 1:00:08 and Michelle Brice 1:06:20. Well done all of you!

London Big Half
A large group of Striders travelled to the capital for the Big Half, a well supported race taking in sights such as Tower Bridge and the Cutty Sark. Racing were Adam Thomas, who was first Strider home in 1:53:59, Siobhan Hagan 2:15:25, Lisa Gribbin 2:15:41, Scott Hawkins 2:31:21, Michelle Bryant, 2:38:16, Dave Helme 2:23:47, Jack Farrant 2:08:09, Josh Stephens 2:32:15, Simon Pharoah 2:01:56, Leanne Howard 2:50:04, Angie Craffey 2:57:31 and Sarah George 3:01:01. Well done to all of you racing in the heat but particularly Jack, Josh, Michelle and Leanne for running new personal best times!
Thanks go to Martin and Lynnette Whittingham, and Dermot Carr (once again in his Squid hat) for volunteering at the Big Half and encouraging all the runners on.

Triathlon
Last, but definitely not least, were our triathletes taking part in the Outlaw X half-distance event. This is a gruelling challenge of a 1.2 mile swim, a 56 mile cycle, followed by a 13.1 mile run. Richard Randle completed the course in 6:51:35 and Lorna Dewell finished in 7.00.45. Sarah Martins also competed, but narrowly missed the cut-off to start the run section, but completing the swim and bike sections was still an amazing achievement! Well done all of you awesome triathletes!
Report by Lisa Fulcher.

The final summer Bank Holiday brought us some sunny weather and an extra day which meant a fab weekend for running.
Ashford parkrun
Ashford parkrun saw a great flurry of red with a brilliant Strider turn out. First home for the club was Adam Booth with an impressive sub 20 5k and time of 19.54. Dan Green come across the line next with a time of 22.53, Justin Burden reached the finishers tunnel in 23.13, Terry Sellen achieved a time of 24.44 and achieving a PB of 25.17 was our very own chairman Andy Found. Our first female Strider finishing in 26.08 was Claire Green with Hazel Turner close behind in a time of 26.20. All achieving a sub 30 on the sunny Saturday morning were Jamie Bartlett (26.24), Jason Brice (26.46), Josh Stephens (also achieving a brilliant PB time of 27.48), Mandy Cooper (28.38), Tasmin Ritchie (28.39) and Don Dewer (29.19). Fantastic running everyone.
Rachel Phillips, Rita Cooke, Amanda James and Catherine Wall got to the finish line within seconds of each other running in times of 30.09, 30.12, 30.14 and 30.16 respectively. Well done ladies! Sally Davidson-Daniel finished the 5k course in 32.27 with Rachel Theobald then pipping Kevin York to the post running home in a time of 32.47 with Kevin crossing the line just 1 second later. Rachel Oliver finished in 33.19 and Peter Broom and Rachel Somerford got through the finishers tunnel at exactly the same time of 33.27. Brilliant stuff all! Finishing the Strider line up round Victoria Park were Michelle Brice (35.20), Clare Maxlow (35.28), Jennifer Watts (36.49) and Hazel Forrester (36.51).
parkrun Tourism
We had Strider representation across a range of parkruns over the country this weekend (some probably coinciding with their bank holiday travels – impressive and dedicated guys).
Staying in Kent were a group running Walmer and Deal – Dermott Carr was the first to finish in 23.51, Siobhan Hagan achieved 28.40, Rachel Misson got a time of 29.28, Michelle Bryant finished in 33.01, Martin Whittingham ran in 35.37 and Lynnette Whittingham rounded up the pack in 1hr 04.14. Andrew Maund visited Maidstone parkrun and finished the 5k course in 21.39. George Cromwell travelled to Sittingbourne and ran in 28.02.
Volunteering as high vis heroes and even enjoying some bubbles at the end where Justine Wearn and Nicola Crawley who visited Foots Cray parkrun and finished in 56.14 and 56.16 respectively. Keeping with the London theme was Sonette Schwartz who travelled to Hackney Marshes and achieved a time of 30.04.
Enjoying some beach air was Rachel Tomsett who finished Seaford Beach’s course in 42.05 and Jamie Penfold who completed Worthing parkrun in 22.12. Travelling bit further up north and completing Birmingham’s Cannon Hill parkrun was Neil Wood who got a time of 23.53 but the gold star for farthest afield parkrun for this week’s tourism was Lisa Gribbon who completed the undulating course in Ganavan Sands, Scotland in an impressive sub 30 time of 29.17.
Amazing tourism all and huge well done each and every one of you.
Canterbury Half Marathon – Mon 28th.
It’s not often we have a race on a Monday morning – but today found 3 striders completing the Canterbury Half Marathon.
Doing it for the girls were – Hazel Turner who finished the half in a fab 2hrs 05.18, Aimee Donohue achieved a brilliant time of 2hrs 41.25 and Lisa Fulcher was not far behind gaining her well earned medal at the end in 2hrs 41.32. Great running girls.
Some different achievements of the weekend and all deserve special mentions in this week’s reports were the ladies who competed in Friday’s Softball competition – a brilliant night was had by all, bubbles enjoyed and laughs galore.
Karen Edwards went to the Capital and took on a walking challenge with the 25k Summer Walk – well done Karen.
Finally we had Jason Kennedy who decided to set himself a goal of running 4 miles every 4 hours over 48 hours. Gruelling but what an achievement.
Congratulations to everyone for their achievements this weekend, and we hope you all enjoyed the long weekend.
Report by Kirsty Theobald.