Leighton Buzzard Athletic Club

Every year, Gade Valley Harriers from hemel Mempstead put on three training runs in the lead up to the London marathon, of 12, 17 and 20 miles. The idea is that you get to run in a decent group with lots of people, aiming for the same target. They are not races as there is no number, timing or results, but you do get tea and cake for your £5!

Of the seven people who went along this weekend for the 17 miles, only Pete, Fred and Amy are building up to a Spring marathon but it was ideal to get out and about with company. The route is generally rural after the first 3 miles along the canal towpath and involves a few nasty hills that really make you work hard, but as far as a training run goes it is ideal. If anyone is considering a marathon next spring then these runs are certainly worth considering and very well organised despite the deliberate informality. read more

Last Wednesday saw the remarkable running of the fifth Stag Trophy race of the season as ten out of the nineteen club members who ran set new personal best times.

On the night it was Jordan Clay, fresh from his run at the Nationals at Alton Towers, who smashed his previous best by over forty seconds to come home first. The 25 points gained put him up to fourth place in the standings and he now has a good chance of a podium finish. Behind Jordan was Amy Inchley with another big PB. She is now regretting not doing any races early in the year as her two performances in February have yielded 49 points! read more

This cross-country race is so named because of the thigh deep streams that Bearbrook Joggers make you run through on your way around the course. Technically there were four club members who particpated in the event but they come from some very different perspectives.

Some of the more long standing members may know Mick Kelly, who dusted off his club vest to come home 29^th out of over 300 people in the race which is approximately 6 miles. These days Mick looks out for off-road races around the country and goes off with his friend and fellow LBAC member, Dave Marham to compete around the country. On this occasion Dave was 51^st in 45:44. read more