19th May 2009

Account of Bracknell Half Marathon by Jon Young

After enjoying the Milton Keynes half, I decided to find another half in another town noted for its scenery. Sunday saw me lining up at 9.00 in Bracknell for the 25th running of this popular race. The HQ is at an arts centre on the outskirts, with a good wide start on both lanes of the road on one side and the finish in front of the terrace cafe on the other. With the temperature set to rise I was glad of the early and prompt start. The route is similar to Milton Keynes - plenty of pavements, cycle paths and underpasses, the latter giving very welcome shade. With 5 water stations and plenty of local support there was no excuse not to keep going, other than a killer hill at 8 - 9 miles which sucked the energy from my legs and left me distinctly tired for the 10th mile. With a few miles to go and the continued support of the marshals and locals I managed to recover some momentum and finish in a good time. Not a pb, but my highest ever placing. Definitely one to return to - the organisation is professional and there was said to be one volunteer for every five runners which is quite an achievement.

18th May 2009

Chris Illman finished a solid 4th at the Oxford Town and Gown 10k, his first race since the London Marathon. His finishing time of 33.44 reflected tired legs and the far from ideal cold and wet conditions. Liza Darroch was another of Cirencester AC's London finishers back in action, completing her third marathon of the year around the shores of lake Windermere. Getting the verdict in a photo finish with Rupert Chesmore, her time of 4.39.02 secured victory in the FV60 category. For a full report click here

12th May 2009

It was a busy week for Cirencester AC with members competing in a number of different events. The stand out performance came from Ian Pople at the Tewkesbury Half Marathon, setting an impressive new club V55 record of 1.31.44. Matt Shannon was first club member home in 17th. Alice and Barbara Thomas ran the associated 5 mile race, recording times of 36.57 and 44.57 respectively. David Wright opted for the Richmond Half Marathon, finishing a fine 11th overall and first V50. Martin Croucher ran a solid 39 minute 10k around the Silverstone Grand Prix circuit whilst Dick Waldron finished second V60 at the Stroud Beer race. Jane Thomas was in action at the Gloucestershire Track and Field Championships, finishing first junior lady in both the 1500m and 3000m. The triathlon season began in earnest with the Cotswold Super Sprint held at Keynes Country Park. Making the most of fine racing conditions, John Evans, Bob Ferris, Martin Pitts and Diane Moore all returned victorious in their respective age categories