07-03-10
On 7 March The 2010 Yorkshire Vets AA Grand Prix got off to a fine start in bright sunshine at Meltham. As in previous years the Pudsey Pacers were represented by a huge turnout - some 37 runners; and there were some fine performances. Among these were Karen Pickles 42.54 (1st female), a turbocharged Sharon Hague 48.53 (1st F40) and an excellent performance from Nicola Bradford 51.09. For the men the first Pacer was Darren Burnley (2nd male), with Paul Gaile 40.35 (1st M40), Robert Samuels 41.54, John Marshall 43.10 and Russell Stead 43.45 all achieving top 25 places.

Several Pudsey Pacers travelled over to Cumbria for the very scenic Haweswater Half Marathon, with Dave Burdon running down to the lake and back in 1:47:09 followed by Karen Thrippleton in 1:59:29. Also venturing over the Pennines was Ann Francis who completed the 9 mile and 2250' ascent Half Tour Pendle fell race on 6 March with a time of 1:43:12.

On 28 February James Clark tackled the hilly Huddersfield 10K and finished in 13th place with 39:39, followed by Matt Harrison in 41:41.

28-02-10
The cream of UK athletics clubs came to Roundhay Park on 27 February for the prestigious 2010 National Cross Country Championships. The Pudsey Pacers men’s team excelled achieving 49th postion overall thanks to fine performances from Darren Burnley 47:01, James Clark 49:24, Paul Gaile 49:36, Stuart Walker 49:43, Nigel Armitage 51:13 and Andy Teal 51:34. While the women’s team achieved an excellent 39th place (ahead of all the other Leeds clubs apart from Leeds AC) thanks to sterling efforts from Karen Pickles 32:49, Sharon Hague 37:04, Nicola Bradford 39:34 and Jenny Cooper 42:36.

There were other fine performances at Roundhay from John Marshall, Jim Wheldon, Simon Beverley, Dave Woodhead, Darryl Stead, Nigel Craven and Dave Byrom.

The picturesque village of Pocklington hosted the popular Snake Lane 10 mile race on 28 February. Paul Gaile was first Pacer home with a Personal Best time 60:31, followed by Richard Gibson also with a new Personal Best of 64:37. Other Pacers competing were Andy Hardaker 68:00, Mark Dixson 70:10, Ann Francis 76:19, John Woodhead 82:17, a Personal Best from Karen Thrippleton 86:33, Anne Gowing 87:13, Debra Day 92:33 and Carol Parkinson 94:53.

21/02/10
On 20 February the Yorkshire & Humberside Cross Country Championships were held at Thornes Park, Wakefield. The Pudsey Pacers men achieved a 9th place finish (compared with 21st last year) - completing the 10.4K course were Darren Burnley 38.14, James Clarke 40.18, Paul Gaille 40.21, Stuart Walker 40.30, Nigel Armitage 41.32, Andy Teale 41.32, Simon Beverley 47.41, Nigel Craven 48.52 and Dave Byrom 50.03. The Pudsey Pacers women completing the 5K course were Sharon Hague 26.26 and Jenny Cooper 29.31.

The following day, the 21 February, Pudsey Pacers and several inches of snow descended on Dewsbury Moor for the final fixture of the 2009/10 West Yorkshire Winter League Cross Country. On the day the Pudsey topped the Vet's and Men's categories, while coming 3rd in the Women's category. A number of Pacers received individual prizes in recognition of their contribution during the whole season including Karen Pickles (1st Female), Sharon Hague (1st F40), Paul Gaile (1st M40), Robert Samuels (3rd M45), Nigel Craven (2nd M50) and Jim Wheldon (1st M55). Over all 4 fixtures Pudsey Pacers finished 2nd overall in the league and as runners-up are rewarded with a trip to the National Finals - a massive well done to all concerned!

In terms of results the following are confirmed

Pacers Women  3rd
Pacers Men        2nd
Vets                  1st
Combined          2nd  (Will thus represent the league in the plate race on March 21st)

Indivdual Prizes galore
Paul Gaile          1st M40
Robert Samuels  3rd M45
Jim Wheldon       1st M55
Nigel Craven      2nd M50

Karen Pickles      1st female
Sharon Hague     1st F40

John Pop            Turpin Prize

Several Pacers travelled to Blackpool on the 21 February for the Great North West Half Marathon, with Dave Woodhead home in 1:34:22 and Carol Parkinson in 2:02:38.

14/02/10
On the 14 February a trio of Pudsey Pacers travelled to the hills and bogs of the West Pennines for the Winter Hill Fell Race. After 11 miles and 2750 feet of ascent, Simon Beverley finished in an excellent 2:09:30, followed by Sharon Hague (cruelly ousted on the line by a Kippax runner!) completed in 2:19:30 and Martin Edwards in 2:54:14.

Some Pudsey Pacers stayed closer to home and opted instead for the hills of the Liversedge Half Marathon. James Clark achieved 20th position with 1:24:54, while Dave Woodhead finished in 1:32:12. Other Pacers included Dave Byrom 1:44:07, David Hudson 1:45:08, Steve Ellis 1:54:54, Karen Thrippleton 2:01:42 and Carol Parkinson 2:16:38.

07/02/10
There was a strong Pudsey Pacer's turnout on Saturaday 6 February for the 25 mile Rombalds Winter Challenge that takes in Baildon Moor, Rombalds Moor and Otley Chevin. The thick fog caused numerous competitors to get lost and some ran a longer distance. First Pacer back to Guiseley was Karen Pickles 3.49.38 (who ran up Baildon Moor twice), closely followed by Stuart Walker 3.52, Sean Casey 4.02.06, Ann Francis sees a return to form with 4.20.15, Dave Cooper 5.09.30, Sharon Hague 5.09.30, Jenny Cooper 5.09.54 and David Byrom 5.09.54. Also completing the distance were Arthur Wood, Stacey Kite, Anne Gowing, Graham Brown and Syd & Val Lawton.

Meanwhile, four Pudsey Pacers travelled to Sheffield for the YVAA Cross Country Championships. Completing the 4 x 2.5km course were Nigel Craven 48:18, Steve Pattison 49:22 and John Pop 51:15.

The sights of Batley and a flat there-and-back course attracted a dozen Pudsey Pacers to the Dewsbury 10K on Sunday 7 February. First male Pacer was James Clark in 35:57, followed by John Marshall 38:56, Dave Woodhead 39:44, Andy Hardaker 40:14, Dave Butler 40:55, Morven Wallace 43:10, Paul Ebrey 44:40 and John Woodhead 48:18. For the ladies Catherine O'Leary-Steele impressed with 44:45, followed by Sue Ransome 46:52, Sarah Turner 49:06 (a PB by 1 minute and 10 seconds) and Carol Parkinson 56:04.

Also on Sunday Karen Thrippleton completed the Central Lancashire Half Marathon in 1.58.22.

01/02/10
In muddy cross-country conditions in Black Carr Woods, the 31 January saw Pudsey Pacers play host to the latest fixture in the 2009/10 West Yorkshire Winter League. The Pacers were well-represented and the male team scored the most points on the day and were 1st, while the ladies team were 4th on the day. In the WYWL the Pacers are now 3rd place overall and have everything to play for in the last remaining fixture.

Meanwhile at the Ferriby 10 in East Yorkshire, Karen Thrippleton completed another 10 miles in her quest to run 2010 miles in 2010, with an impressive 87:50.

Several Pudsey Pacers travelled to Haworth on 24 January for the Stanbury Splash Fell Race - with Karen Pickles setting a new V35 course record of 54:45, ably followed by Russell Stead in 57:34, and Neil Reed in 61:38..

25-01-10
With 'the big freeze' now a distant memory some 27 Pudsey Pacers travelled to York for the fast and flat Brass Monkey Half Marathon.

The first Pudsey Pacer home was Paul Gaile with a superb time of 1:18:28 (PB), closely followed by Ryan Turnbull in 1:18:38 (PB). Other Pacers men included John Marshall 1:26:19 (PB), Richard Gibson 1:27:28 (PB), Dave Butler 1:28:56, Dave Woodhead 1:28:59, Andy Hardaker 1:29:11, Tim McCaughy 01:31:44, Alistair Chapman 1:32:39, Nigel Craven 1:33:47, Stephen Pattison 1:37:49 (PB), Dave Byrom 1:38:37 (PB), David Hudson 1:45:53, Don Stead 1:48:24, John Woodhead 1:48:36, Al Nowell 1:48:27 and David Shipley 2:02:01.

The first Pudsey Pacer woman was Nicola Bradford with an impressive 1:38:17 (PB), followed by Sharon Hague 1:40:08, Paula Bray 1:49:06, Sarah Turner 1:53:56 (PB), Karen Thrippleton 1:54:54, Mandy Bannister 1:57:16, Carol Parkinson 2:03:55, Joanna Nicholson 2:04:22, Debbie Day 2:07:26 and Ann Francis 2:07:20.

03-01-10
The Penine 10K was cancelled due to Ice, it will be re-arranged for later in the year.

02-01-10
Nigel Craven travelled to Sheffield for the Open Cross Contry event finishing in 42nd place in 47.36 over 10K.

27-12-09
Karen Thrippleton completed back to back races with 48.53 at the Hot Toddy 5.8 mile event in Todmorden. KT plans to complete 2010 mile in 2010 for Charity, good luck.
 
31-12-09
Four Pacers braved the hills above Howarth in the Auld Lang Syne Fell race over 5.5 miles and 900 foot of ascent. The course was made more difficult by heavy overnight snow on the skyline. First home was Karen Pickles 49.58, Nigel Craven 53.20, Digger 61.21 and Alyson Glover 72.20.
 
26-12-09
There was a great festive turnout of 24 Pacers at the Chevin Chase on Boxing Day. The tough 7+ mile course was made more difficult this year due to snow and ice. The race was won by Triathalon World Champion Alistair Bronwlee being chased all the by a posse of Pacers led by the 'Clown' aka Paul Gaile in 48.10, R.Gibson 49.10, A.Chapman 53.19, G.Carty 53.43, D.Woodhead 53.59, M.Reynard 54.16, M.Dixson 54.41, P.Ebrey 56.25, D.Stead 56.31, S.Pattinson 59.41. 1st Pacers lady N.Bradford 59.43, D.Cooper 1.00.57, S.Ransome 1.02.55, J.Cooper 1.06.00, D.Egan 1.06.41, S.Kite 1.08.57, J.Kite 1.08.58, A.Gowing 1.11.58, K.Thippleton 1.11.58, D.Shipley 1.13.54, A.Glover 1.15.12, the naughty Santa's C.Parkinson & S.Hague 1.19.06 and finally Santa Claus himself aka A.Wood 1.25.05.

23-12-09
Round 2 of the WYWL XC was held in icy conditions at Temple Newsham. Counters on the day for the men were P.Gaile, R.Samuels, S.Walker, J.Prideaux, A.Teal, D.Woodhead and J.Marshall. For the women the counters were K.Pickles (1st Place) L.Hague and D.Wood.
 
In the overall standings Pudsey Pacers lie 3rd in both Male / Female, 1st in the Vets and 3rd in the combined. The next leg is at Stainland on the 10-01-10, runners of all ability are requested to don their Walsh's and get the team back on track vying for the top 2 places.

15-12-09
Richard Gibson and Mark Dixson took part in the inaugural Owston Ferry 5 mile race in North Lincolnshire yesterday, and both came back with pb’s!

In a field of just over 200 Richard was 29th in 31.17 and Mark was 39th in 32.36. Well worth the 110 mile round trip!

14-12-09
The Pudsey Pacers entered two strong teams into the Calderdale Way relay. The Pacers A team of P.Gaille, D.Burnley, R.Turnbull, N.Armitage, R.Stead, A.Teal, K.Pickles, D.Walker, J.Marshall, D.Woodhead, S.Casey & A.Hardaker finished in a respectable 31st place in a combined time of 7.12.40.
The Pacers B team of N.Craven, S.Beverley, D.Burden, D.Butler, A.Chapman, D.Reed, D.Byrom, N.Bradford, S.Turner, J.Cooper, M.Bannister & C.Parkinson came home in 93rd place in 8.56.16.
A fantastic effort by the club.
 
On Thursday the first Football Challenge with local rivals Pudsey & Bramley AC took place at Kirkstall. In a keenly fought contest the Pacers came out the winners 6 - 4. Team Captain Shaun Denham commented 'It was a game of two halves'. Roll on the Rugby challenge.

08-12-09
A quiet weekend on the racing front with only Nigel Craven reporting a result. He completed the Bolton by Bowland Fell race in 61st place for the 8 mile and 800' course.

01-12-09
Nigel ‘mountain goat’ Craven was out in the serious hills completing the grueling Tour of Pendle coming 180th on the 16.8 miles and 4830 feet of ascent with a time of 3:36:53. At the end he likened his legs to a Wetherby Whaler cod, battered!

30 Pacers competed in the popular Abbey Dash 10k, Ryan Turnball lead the men home in 35:56, follow closely by Paul Gaile and James Clark in sub 37 efforts.  The ladies were headed by Catherine O’Leary-Steele in 43:39 with Nicola Bradford and Claire Gratton separated by 30 seconds in 45:19 and 45:49 respectively.  Well done one and all.
 
The Yorkshire Veteran’s Athletic Association Grand Prix 2009 finished with Pudsey taking home the medals again.  The competition for over 35’s saw the men secure 1st in the ‘All to count’, 2nd in the ‘First  four to count’ and 1st in ‘Rest to count’ . The woman did a great job taking 3rd in the ‘All to count’, 2nd in the ‘First  four to count’ and 3rd in ‘Rest to count’ categories.
 
Individual honours were as follows: M35 Richard Gibson 2nd and Dave Cooper 4th; Paul Gaile ran all ten races and came 3rd in M40 with Gary Carty in 6th;  Robert Samuels was 4th in M45, Nigel Craven 6th in M50, Jim Wheldon 2nd M55 and evergreen Don Stead 5th in M70.
 
For the ladies we had four ladies in the F35 category top ten, Nicola Bradford 5th, Carol Parkinson 7th, Karen Pickles 8th (with three races wins!) and Nicola McMillan 10th.  Sarah Turner came 6th in F40 with Debra Day 10th. Mandy Bannister ran all ten races coming 4th in F45.  Susan Ransome and Trish Cutts did well in F50 with a 5th and 11th final standing with Joy Good taking Bronze in the F55 category.  A great haul for the Pacers this year, something we must continue in the WYWL Cross Country.
 
Dave ‘Digger’ Byrom’ finished  as first international runner in the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, a 4 mile event in Santa Barbara, California, USA.  A cracking 76th out of 642 runner in 80 degrees heat in 28.16. Apparently, if you’re interested? he went straight to Rincon Point to go surfing and cool off; yes, thought not!!

 
And finally, the Thirsk 10 mile was held on Sunday 29 November in which 9 Pacers were out in a big race pack.  Leading the Pacers home in just over the hour was Nigel Armitage in 1:00.09 (75th overall) followed by David Woodhead in 1:06:07, Micheal Hern 1:07:39 and Martin Edwards in 1:14:32 .The three ladies running were Sharon Hague in 1:16:48, Karen Thrippleton in 1:34:37 and Carol Parkinson in 1:35:49.

09-11-09
Skipton AC hosted the first of this year’s West Yorkshire Winter League Cross Country races.  The Pudsey Pacers have made a promising start to the seasons events, finishing 2nd overall in the team event.  The National Plate Winners men finished 3rd overall with 1271 points, Paul Gaile lead our pack home finishing 9th and 2nd M40 home.  The ladies secured 4th position with 249 helped by strong finishes from Karen Pickles, Diane Wood and Nicola Bradford in 2nd, 25th and 27th respectively.  On the Vets leaderboard the Pacers are 3rd with 465 points.

02-11-09
This weekend, ‘Hell Up North’ attracted 1,500 clean runners to Delamere Forest on Sunday. The muddy 12 mile + course involved negotiating the numerous natural obstacles in the forest. First to succesfully get through the 'Hills of Hell' and 'Bogs of Doom' was Simon Beverley in 1.45 followed by Dave Butler 1.51, David Byrom 1.58 and Steve Ellis 2.05.

12 Pacers took on the Guy Fawkes 10 mile. First home in a sparkling 7th overall was Darren Burnley in 1:02:47(2nd M40), followed by the rocket Ryan Turnbull in 12th with 1:03:29(5th under 35) and the ever improving Richard Gibson in 47th with a fire-cracking 1:08:52.  Also running and home in this order were John Marshall 1:09:55, Nigel Craven 1:15:00, Mark Dixson 1:16:02, Martin Edwards 1:18:18, Claire Gratton 1:21:02, Sarah Turner 1:30:27, Karen Thrippleton 1:32:42, Debra Day 1:32:42 and Carol Parkinson 1:42:30.

29-10-09 - update
Also running the Dublin Marathon and smashing her PB was Sue Ransome floating round the course effortlessly for a 3.30.03!
 
Shaun Denham ran the Original Mountain Marathon at the weekend. This involved 2 days of bog trotting round the hills and valleys of the Elan Valley in mid wales. 50k and 3000m of ascent over two days. The weather was somewhat improved from last years wash out, with even some sunshine on Sunday!
Shaun finished the two days in 118th out of 300 teams in the B'Class.

25-10-09
Three Pacers travelled to Holmfirth for the 15 mile road race, Nigel Craven was first Pacer home in 1.51, followed by Don Stead 2.06.01 (Ist Male 70) & Karen Thrippleton 2.15.12.
 
The Withens Skyline Fell race was held in atrocious conditions on Sunday at Haworth, the race covers 7 miles and climbs 1,000 feet. First home in was Nigel Armitage in 53.00, Andy Teale 54.31, Karen Pickles 57.26 and David Byrom in 67.31.
 
Ryan Turnbull came home with the silver medal at the Pickering & Moors 10K+ in 38.14, Claire Gratton knocked 2 minutes of last years time on the demanding course finishing in 48.26.
 
26-10-09
A strong Pacers drinking team travelled to Ireland to take on the Dublin Marathon. Sean Casey led the group home in a magnificent 3.14.07, followed by Dave Burden & Andy Hardaker 3.26.55, Morvern Wallace 3.27.09, Sharon Hague 3.43.37, Chris Wilson & Dave Hudson 3.44.39, Jenny Cooper 4.12.23, Carol Parkinson 4.33.17 and David Shipley 4.41.32 and Joanne Nicholson 5.01.37.
Reports of after race mayhem and further PB's on the drinking front will be saved for the forum once the group have cleared customs.

20/10/09
Karen P made it a Hat Trick of Victories with first place at the Bronte Way Fell race at the weekend, home in 61.38 for 8 miles.

At the Bridlington Half Marathon Martin Edwards scored a PB with 1.39.38, Don Stead retained his Male V70 Crown with 1.45.51. Great effort Don. Also running were John Woodhead 1.56.28 and Graham Lee 2.06.24.

19/10/09
The Amsterdam Marathon is one of the fastest courses in Europe, Paul Gaile used this to his advantage and ran an incredible time of 2.53.04 to finish 231 out of 7,000 runners, Mandy Bannister gave able support with a great time of 4.04.36.

The Bradford City 10+ mile Run was held for the first time, a taster for next years full marathon, numerous Pacers turned out for the event. Strong performances were put in on the hilly course. Leading the team home was Darren Burnley 6th 58.43, Ryan Turnbull 1.00.15 & James Clarke 1.02.56. Other times recorded were by Richard Gibson 1.05.56, Michael Hearn 1.07.22, John Marshall 1.07.42. Nigel Craven 1.09.03, Simon Beverley 1.13.15, Steve Boom 1.14.01, Roy Bamforth 1.15.24, David Byrom 1.15.31, Darryl Stead 1.16.28, Pam Goldthorpe 1.17.42, Steve Ellis 1.19.39 and Sarah Turner 1.24.57.

Further afield Alistair Chapman ran a personal best at the Cardiff Half Marathon in 1.30.23.

On the Fells, Jim Wheldon confirmed his status with a final seasons placing of 12th in the National tables.

15/10/09
Karen Pickles continued her recent winning spree with a great victory at the Beefy's Nab fell race in Oxenhope. The race covers 3 miles and has 650' of climbing, Karen managed this in 27.43. No mean feet considering a local farmer had flattened a fell runner at the start and then released his bulls into the fields because the race went across his land!

Jim Wheldon continued his quest for a Top 10 finish in the Vets Fell racing calendar with the classic Langdale Horseshoe Fell race, covering 14 miles of serious terrain and climbing 4,000'. Jim finished in 3.13.38 in 191st place, a fantastic effort. Jim was reported to be grunting to such an extent that he has been invited to the next Wimbledon Championships to give the ladies tips!

14/10/09
Karen Thrippleton travelled to the Stadium Runners Woodland 10K Challenge and came home with prizes. She reports 'A fantastic race and I won a Gamin 50 as a spot prize, goody bag included packets smash, tin beans, custard, rice pudding, pen, packet porridge, cereal bar, carton orange juice, loads of sweets and a long sleeved techncal t shirt, UNBELIEVEBLE, there was a brass band at the start/finish and someone playing an organ halfway round the course in the middle of the woods. Even had chip timing, tea, coffee and a bar!'
Sounds like a club trip for next year and a chance to fill the pantry, and by the way she managed 57.10 for the race.

12/10/09
The Yorkshire Coast beckoned for two Pacers at the Scarborough 10K on Sunday, Ryan Turnbull flew round Marine Drive and finished in 36.21. Claire Gratton was not far behind in 46.43.
Stephen Pattison  produced a top 40 finish at the Bramham Park 10K in 47.15.
Nigel Craven hit the trails of Boroughbridge at the 10 mile race, finishing in 1.13.54.

08/10/09
The 9th YVAA Race of the Season was held on a tough course at Greetland. The Pacers were well represented with 20+ runners on the day. Leading the men home were Darren Burnley, Paul Gaille and Nigel Armitage. The women ran well with Sarah Turner, Mandy Bannister and Trish Cutts being the first three home.
 
With one race to go both Men and Women's teams are in contention for Team prizes in the All to Count, First Four and Rest to Count.
 
On an individual basis, runners in with a shout of a Top 10 finish are:
 
F35 Nicola Bradford 5th, Karen Pickles 6th, Carol Parkinson 8th Nicola McMillan 10th
M35 Dave Cooper 3rd, Richard Gibson 4th, Paul Ebray 9th
F40 Sarah Turner 5th, Debbie Day 7th
M40 Paul Gaille 2nd, Gary Carty 4th, John Marshall 6th, Russell Stead 8th, Digger 9th
F45 Mandy Bannister 4th
M45 Rob Samuels 6th
F50 Sue Ransome 6th
M50 Nigel Craven 5th, Gary Phillips 10th
F55 Joy Good 3rd
M65+ Don Stead 5th
 
All 35+ runners are required for the last race of the season at Spenborough!!!

05/10/09
Dave Butler entered the Puma Coniston Trail 15KM on saturday 3rd october. He reports 'conditions were variable to say the least (strong winds, driving rain then 2 minutes of bright warm sunshine then back to rain/wind). Climbs from zero to 300 metres in under 2 miles (tough).
Anyway finished in 1hr 22 mins  (197th out of 468 other lunatics).
 
A visit to Bonnie Scotland and a potential sighting of Nessie beckoned for Dave Woodhead and Karen Thrippleton. Dave, running back to back marathons, managed 3.27.33 and Karen (having run 1,000 miles + this year) a new PB of 4.22.35. Top efforts by both runners.

The Lefarge Helwith Bridge Duathalon proved a demanding challenge for the three Pacers who attended on Sunday. The race consists of a 4 mile run, 23 mile bike ride then another 4 miles to finish. First Pacer home was Vince Bussingham in 46th place 2.16.56, Gary Philips 90th 2.38.40 and Alyson Glover in 102nd in 2.59.31.
 
Several Pacers attended the Harewood House 10 mile Trail race on the outskirts of Leeds. James Clarke continues his impressive run of form with 22nd place in 64.39, Karen Pickles won the womens race in 66.31 in 32nd place overall. Other finishers for Pudsey included Don Stead 90.17, John Wilson 95.35, Victoria Denton 102.16 and Arthur Wood 107.12.
 
Now on the WAVA ratings will Don increase his lead on James?

02/10/09
Karen Pickles finished 1st lady and 6th overall at the Norland Moor Trail Race on the 27-09-09 in a great time of 43.33.

28/09/09
The Whernside Fell race proved a tough saturday day out for the fell running section of the club. First home was Nigel Craven in 1.56.54, followed closely by Jim Wheldon in 1.58.44.

Martin Edwards has been venturing abroad again this time taking on the likes of Gebrselassie in the Berlin Marathon. They both toiled with the 25 degree heat keeping up a strong pace for the full distance. Like all big race match-ups there is always a winner, and thanks to a final surge for the line Big M shaved a whisker off his PB, home in 3:56:26. For those interested Little G came home in 2:06:08

A storming performance by the mens V35 team at the Yorkshire Vets Road Relay sealed a 4th place finish. The team were led home by Paul Gaille 17.17, Nigel Armitage 17.33 and Jonathan Prideaux 18.16 on the 3 mile course. The V50 team also performed well Jim Wheldon 19.51, Dave Burdon 19.41 and Nigel Craven 20.26.
 
The 25th Horsforth 10K was held in perfect conditions and attracted 25 Pudsey Pacers. First home was James Clarke in 13th place 37.34, first lady was Sarah Turner 52.19. Confirmed PB's on the day were acheived by Mark Curtis 43.58 and Anjuli Parmar 1.00.44. click here to see the full results

21/09/09
Both the Full and Half Yorkshireman marathons were blessed with great running weather and supported by a well stocked team of marshalls; bananas, cake and deep heat to be precise!  First lady home in the half and 16th overall was Karen Pickles in 1:53:23, Jim Wheldon was 3rd in MV55 in 2:06:00, Dave Byrom finished in 2:34:10, Karen Thrippleton  in 2:41:54 and Arthur Wood completed the race in 3:03:57.  Four Pacers attempted the Full with Jaes Clarke squeezing into the top ten with 3:33:39, followed by Simon Beverley on a debut outing at this distance and finished strongly with Shaun Denham jointly timed in 4:17:30 and John Greenwood in 4:33:17.

This weekend the 107 ran the Good Shepherd fell race over 15miles with 2000ft of ascent.  First pacer home was Russell Stead in 2.02.22, followed by Nigel Craven in 2.18.25 securing 3rd in his category and Neil Reed in 2.29.24; overall the team came an impressive 3rd place.

With good support from fellow Pacers along the Kirkstall 7 π miles trail James Clark led the Pacers home in 6th place, followed by Robert Samuels, Jim Wheldon retained his M55 title with John Marshall, Dave Butler, Gary Philips and Don Stead all finishing strongly.  John was doubly pleased after winning his first prize in 10 years of running – 1st M35 even though he’s well into his 40’s!  Leading the ladies home was Paula Bray, with Sarah Turner, Lisa Smedley and Alyson Glover in hot pursuit.

14/09/09
A band of merry Pacer men and women joined the running of the Robin Hood Half and Full marathons in Nottinghamshire.  First outlaw home on the half was Dave Burdon in 1:36:15 followed by Martin Edwards 1:40:11, Paula Bray in 1:50:34, John Woodhead 1:52:14 and Carol Parkinson in 2:00:20.  Two went for the full with Dave Woodhead achieving a great time of 3:23:57 and Chris Stanley followed in 4:09:44.
 
Darren Burnley finished 7th  (2nd MV40) in the Wetherby 10k, the last of the Black Sheep series.  His points confirm 2nd place overall in the 8 race challenge, not baa’d for his first season racing!  Also running were Gary Carty 39:11:52 and Michael Hern 40:55:55.
 
The Yorkshireman results are yet to be posted so watch this space for an update
 
Also out this weekend were Andy Hardaker at the first running of the Wistow 10, home in a cracking 1:05:23.  Sharon Hague at the Fleetwood  Half continuing strongly on the road to full recovery with a time of 1:46:20.  And finally, Nigel Craven came 22nd in the Settle Loop Tough Trail race in 1:11:57.

08/09/09
Pacers continue to shine at the Leeds Country Way ; 36 runners from Pudsey tackled the 6 leg loop of Leeds the A team came 5th, the B team 13th and the C team well placed in the twenties.  Kippax harriers organized a great race and 30 plus teams all enjoyed the grueling cross country; a big thankyou to Dave Burdon for organizing the Pacers.  Check out the forum for individual splits.
 
Two of the most experienced Pacers endured roasting temperatures in the 24th Nike Budapest Half Marathon where 8000 people took to the streets of the Hungarian capital; unfortunately the expected breeze along the "Brown" Danube did not materialize.  Although the 29 degrees was the warmest weather in which Trish Cutts had ever run, it didn't stop her enjoying the race and blazing a trail to category PB of 1:56:10, hot on the heels of John Pop.  John, who injured himself in the Vets race a couple of weeks ago, had little trouble on the day but could only carry himself round to a PW of 1:52:00.  Far from being down about it he warns "Watch out! I can only get better"
 
Two other Pacers were out taking on shorter distances this weekend; Sarah Turner continues to improve finishing in 52:05 at the Lichfield 10k with John assisting on the finish line at his 2nd claim club.  James Clarke bagged another top ten finish at the Sandal Multi Terrain 10k ; a prize winning 5th position in 36:58.
 
5th September  
Jim Wheldon was again in fell mode at the Half Peris Horseshoe in Snowdonia.  It was an epic 8.8 miles with 4500 feet ascent. The good news: he finished in the top 50..........The bad news: that was last! though in mitigation and ever the gentleman, he was helping a novice fell-runner round her first 'A' race.
His navigation skills, such as they are, stood the test as they had one or two hairy moments in the clag at 3000 feet plus.
 
29th August.
Jim Wheldon was back on the fells racing Dentdale Fell Race 2.9 miles, 1385 feet climbing. An AS grade in the 5th round of English Championships Jim finished 96th in35:34.

01-09-09
Pacers out this week were Nigel ‘Fellboy’Craven securing a fine 3rd in his category at the Pendelton Fell Race; he was 34th over the tough 5 mile and 1500 feet of ascent.
 
Tim McCaughey and Sue Thompson were out in Derbyshire at the Chesterfield Spire 10; home in 1:12:51 and 1:29:53 respectively.
 
And Finally, Spofforth 10k finished the bank holiday weekend off with 11 Pacers pounding the trail.  First home was Paul Gaile in a fantastic 11th place in 38 on the dot; next up was Robert Samuels 15th in 38.52; Dave Woodhead 20th 39.29; Gary Carty 43rd 42.53; Gary Phillips 57th 45.46; David Byrom 66th 46.49; John Woodhead 124th 52.16; Mandy Bannister 147th 55.21; Karen Thrippleton 151st 55.51; Carol Parkinson 155th 56.09; and last but not least Arthur Wood in 57 on the nose.  A special mention to our Gary Philips who we wish a quick and speedy recovery following a post race incident.

24-08-09
The Burnsall Feast Sports day was a family day out for the Steads. Leading the way was Don Stead in the 10 mile road race finishing with an excellent 1:26:53 (two days after the Starbeck Vets race!).

The younger Steads took on the classic Burnsall Fell race. Russell Stead came home the victor in a death defying 18:15 followed closely by Darryl Stead 22:27 and Dominic Egan 26:07.

Nigel Craven headed to the Sedbergh Hill race, 14 miles and over 6000 feet [1830 m] of climbing finishing in a respectable 65th place in 3:05:54.


21-08-09
In the 8. Yorkshire Vets Grand Prix race at Starbeck, we had another decent showing of 10 ladies and 25 men. Despite missing our top 3 ladies again, we had enough strength in depth at the sharp end to leapfrog Knavesmire in the 4-to-count category, though in the All-to-count category the ladies are still third. The men made their lead in the All-to-count just about unassailable while consolidating 2nd place in the 4-to-count. Individual prizes went to Nicola Bradford (2nd F35), Nigel Armitage (2nd M35), Dave Woodhead (3rd M35), Darren Burnley (3rd overall and 3rd M40), Jim Wheldon (2nd M55) and Don Stead (2nd M70).

19-08-09
News now in for the Belper 30k thanks to Jenny Cooper who writes...

Sunday meant an early start for a brave bunch of pacers who ventured down to Belper in Derbyshire to take part in the Belper Rugby Rover 30k.

Twelve pacers set off on the tough multi-terrian race which takes in some of the Derwent Valley and covers fields, Roman roads and enchanting woodland. The Pacers did themselves and their club proud with some excellent times. 1st home was James Clark who managed to finish 13th overall in a time of 2.17.53 and no, he didn't get lost this year (no Nick Hart). Next was Russell Stead 15th overall and 4th M40 in 2.20.07. Simon Beverley and Dave Burdon had a tussle for the next slot with Simon being the victor on this occasion in 2.38.09 and Dave 2.39.48 and 6th M50. Next was Sue Ransome putting in another fine performance in a time of 3.01.38 and 1st F50. Paul Gaile crossed the line in 3.12.55 after picking up an injury 6 miles from home. He was closely followed by Jenny Cooper in 3.13.02 who took over 5½ mins off last years time to post a new PB. Next in were 3 pacers arm in arm having run the race together, Sharon Hague, Carol Parkinson and Mandy Bannister all home in 3.41.35. Sadly, the course took down two pacers who didn't finish and who were briefly missing in action - Dave Woodhead and Martin Edwards. Well done everyone.

18-08-09
John Pop was the sole Pudsey Pacer at last Tuesday’s York Millennium Bridge 5k. John was full of praise for the event and happy enough with a finishing time of 22.30 for his first 5k for 4 years.

Over the weekend, Karen Thrippleton was in Wales for the Race the Train 14 mile race. She finished in an excellent 2.25.30 bettering her 2008 time by nearly 4 minutes. If Karen keeps up this level of improvement year on year she will beat the train by her 60th birthday. Good luck!

Roving Pacer John Marshall tackled the Staffordshire Knots 5 miler and managed 32.33 for a 50th place finish.

Still awaiting news from the Belper 30k with reports that Big M is still missing in action.

11-08-09
The Newark Half Marathon proved a real challenge in the hot conditions on Sunday. Two Pacers travelled and came away delighted with their results. Dave Woodhead 1.26.52 and Carol Parkinson 2.07.09.

Meanwhile the YVAA championship Askern 10 mile race was taken on by Karen Pickles 69.52, Martin Edwards 78.21 and Sue Ransome 79.13. Sue ran 7 seconds quicker than at the same event last year!, yet with the fair weather runners out in force this year she was unable to repeat her F50 second place.

Nigel 'Fell Boy' Craven travelled to the Lowther Trail Race and completed the 12.5 mile course in 40th place.

03-08-09
Darryl Stead is officially an Ironman after completing the UK Ironman in a fantastic time of 12 hours 25 minutes. This consisted of a 2.5 mile swim in 1:20, 112 mile bike ride in 6:36 and a full marathon in 4:17. Darryl is now headed for the nearest spa for a much needed recovery.

The Idle Trail race was tackled by 6 Pacers this weekend. Star performers on the day were Nicola Bradford 51:36 1st F35 and Don Stead 54:54 1st M70. Also running well were Gary Carty 41:44, John Marshall 43:23, Tim McCaughey 46:09 and Sarah Turner 55.09.

The first Jane Tomlinson Run-for-all York 10k was held on Sunday. Amongst the 5000+ runners was Darren Burnley managing to squeeze his way to the front and finishing in an impressive 8th place in 36:02. Also running were Willliam Wilson 51:35, Joy Good 55:54, Karen Thrippleton 54:28, Carol Parkinson 56:07 and finally Nigel Barker 1:09:41.

Proof that fell-running is catching on in the club at last - a band of 7 pacers set off to tackle the bogs and fells on the Round Hill Fell race on Sunday morning. Perfect race conditions meant that the views could be truly appreciated, although keeping your eyes on the ground ahead was highly recommended bearing in mind the route had several BOGs to contend with, made worse the previous days rainfall. However, all BOGS considering the Pacers put in a good showing with Nigel Armitage finishing in 10th position over all in 1:02:23 and Karen Pickles was 17th overall and 1st lady in a splendid time of 1:06:53. Next was Nigel Craven adding yet another fell race to his collection in a time of 1:09:09, Gary Phillips 1:12:31 and Jim (my kit is in the wash) Wheldon was 1:13:30. Next home was Dave Cooper making a début on the fells in 1:16:04 - and last but not least and not last overall was Jenny Cooper - crawling home in 1:41:49.

30-07-09
The 7. Yorkshire Vets Grand Prix race of the year at Knavesmire started in the kind of monsoon conditions most runners have never experienced before. The race comprised a flood of 50 runners from the host club Knavesmire (27% of the field), with Pacers supplying 16 men and 13 women, a fair turnout in itself for an evening “away” race. However, we had few individual prizes. Dave Woodhead, Nicola Bradford and Sue Ransome were all third in their respective categories. As for the teams the men remain well on top in the "All to Count" category and 2nd to P&B in the "1st 4 to count" category, while due to the deluge of Knavesmire women it was no surprise that our ladies slipped to 3rd in all categories. Despite that, storming performances came from Nicola and the fast-improving Sarah Turner - Performance Co-ordinator take note!

28-07-09
A small band of Pacers ventured to the hills of Ilkley of Saturday for the first running of the Rombalds Romp. This was advertised as an 8 mile trail race, but the distance was changed first to 9 miles then to 7! The organiser didn't want to lose anybody in the mud on Rombalds so the route was shortened. The weather and mud made it quite a tough little addition to the racing calendar. First home for the Pacers was Nigel Armitage finishing in 19th overall in a time of 53.22, closely followed by Nigel Craven in 53.49. First home for the ladies was Jenny Cooper in 71.18 who was pipped to the post again by Sir Ron Hill MBE - maybe next time. Next home was Karen Thrippleton in 76.12 with Sarah Dutson hot on her heels finishing in 76.28.

The 19th Pudsey 10k Challenge was a great success. Almost 600 runners competed in the day’s three events with 400 runners braving the toughest 'Town' 10k in Yorkshire. The race was won by Steven Neill of Pudsey & Bramley closely followed by Pacers James Kovács 35.52, Darren Burnley 38.17, James Clark 39.02 and Russell Stead 41.01. First lady home for the Pacers was Karen Pickles 42.02 and 1st F40 Diane Wood 51.21.

The Race Director, Dave Butler, thanks all the Pacers who volunteered their time to allow this event to take place again. Local sponsors are also thanked for their generous financial support for Marie Curie Cancer Care. Further information regarding amounts raised will be published shortly

21-07-09
Darren Burnley takes 3rd in the Burton Leonard 10k trail race on Sunday.  It was the 7th race in the Black Sheep Series; his time of 37.29 maintains his silver slot on the leader board with one race to go. The Wetherby 10k on September the 13th. let’s make sure he has a ‘Whaleofa’ race and the chips will be on DB….

Out on a school night was David Woodhead at the Doncaster Town Centre 5k, 50th in 18:29.
 
Whilst at the weekend a handful of Pacers took part in the Yorkshire Wolds Half on Saturday at the Bishop Wilton show.  In time order, Andy Hardaker was firing on all cylinders home first for the Pacers in smashing time of 1:35:29, Gary Phillips was next with 1:41:44, Karen Thrippleton continues her recent run of form with 2:05:56, David Shipley 2:14:21, Arthur Wood in 2:16:07 and Jonathan Kite in 2:16:33
 
Also out on Saturday were our treasurer and his legal aide at the Spectrum Striders Burtonwood 5 mile.  John Marshall was home in 32:22 and Sarah Turner in 41:29; the promise of a hamburger at the end was worth the trek over the border into Cheshire.  A special mention goes to Strider Nabilah Salihi who also runs with us during the week.  I think there is a second claim proposition coming after Nabilah was the 4th lady home in 32:39!


And finally,  Nigel Craven was in mountain goat mode (again!) with an epic 17 miler with 4000 feet of ascent.  He secured 25th out of 85 in the Holme Moss Fell Race hosted by Holmfirth Harriers.  His time of 3:35:18 placed him 3rd in category; another cracking performance.

14-07-09
On Sunday 5th July four Pacers tackled the tough, sorry Eccleshill Tuff 10k. Karen Pickles won the ladies race in 40:08 9th overall. Gary Carty was 22nd (42:55) and Gary Phillips 28th (44:51) with Karen Thrippleton (55:13) placed 66th, the times were a reflection of the challenging course.
 
At the Golden Acre Relay the Pudsey A Team secure 5th with Darren Burnley, Sean Casey and Paul Gaile finishing in a combined time of 49:57, the B and C came 23rd and 31st respectively.
 
Sixteen Pacers ran the Eccup 10 mile with James Clarke coming home first in 19th place in 1:03:04 keeping his regular spot in the top twenty.  Next was David Woodhead 38th in 1:05:05, Michael Hern 98th in 1:12:42 and Simon Beverley 124th in 1:13:54.  
 
And finally, the Pacers continue to gather momentum following the 6th event in the Yorkshire Vets series at Honley. Overall the Ladies lie 2nd with 3870 points and the men lead the ‘All to Count’ with 13503.   Paul Gaile was 9th at the race on Sunday with Russell chasing home in 14th.  In the age categories the Pacers are making more room in the cabinets for silverware with the current standings below:
 
·        Richard Gibson heads the M35;
·        Paul Gaile and John Marsahll have a 1-2 in M40;
·        Nigel Craven is 3 in M50;
·        Jim Wheldon 2nd M55;
·        Sarah Turner 2nd F40;
·        Mandy Bannister 2nd F45; and
·        Joy Good 2nd F55+.

06-07-09
The Pacers continue to shine this summer with Dave Woodhead, Nigel Armitage and Paul Gaile representing the Pacers at the Danefield Relay on Wednesday 1st July and securing a top ten finish in the 3x3.25 mile trail race. Their combined time of 63:46 placed them 9th position out of 43 teams.   

Nigel Craven is consistently improving in his first fell race season; this week tackling the Cragg Vale race on Thursday 2 July and the Comptons Cross, Rawtenstall on Saturday.  Positions were 25th (34:43) at Cragg Vale and 11th in the longer race of 9 miles with 1000 feet of ascent.  The latter race was a compact but strong field of 20 including fell royalty Jeff Norman, the 6 time winner of the 3 peaks fell race.
 
Other Pacers out and about were John Woodhead finishing mid field in the Mansfield Half in 1-56-38 and Carol Parkinson making it family affair running the ‘Race for Life’ in Bolton with Mum.

30-06-09
Seven pacers entered events this week starting with a Wednesday evening meet at the Esholt Bash Trail Race. A small field of 95 runners ran a testing route with a tough ascent to finish; Rob Samuels was 9th overall in 41.31, followed by David Lighten (33rd) in 49.19 and Karen Thrippleton (76th) in 1.00.45.  
 
On Saturday 27 June Gary Phillips and Nigel Craven ran the Eldwick & Gilstead  Gala Fell Race,  a lung splitting, eye bulging dash to the top of Hope Hill in a sweltering 25 degrees.  The cooling dash downwards was followed by an uphell finish to complete the 3 miler; Gary was 39th in 22.57 and Nigel 48th out of 114 in 23.35.  
 
On Sunday 28 June, John Marshall and Sarah Turner ran the Hepworth Dryad, a five mile mixed terrain race offering spot prizes of trees to racers, wood you beleaf it? John did well in the mud considering his road attire, finishing in 36:04 with Sarah Turner finishing strongly in 47:26.  Unfortunately no treeats for the Pacers this time.

14-06-09
The Humber Bridge Half Marathon was the destination for two Pacers aiming for good times. David Hudson managed a new PB in 1.39.17 and David Lighten ran well for 1.55.16.
 
17-06-09
 Dave Woodhead travelled to Doncaster for the Sandall Beat 10K Trail race and was very happy with another Sub 40 race in 39.34.
 
The Wicken Hill Whizz was the latest fell race attempted by Nigel Craven he completed the course in 28.04 for the 3 mile and 1000' of ascent.
 
Three Pudsey Pacers, also known as the three musketeers seemingly represented west yorkshire in the 3 lakes classic which is run in the Rother Valley in Rotherham.
 
Despite being outnumbered by those from South Yorkshire first home was Dave Cooper in a time of 1.58 finishing in 22nd overall, Morvan Wallace having run more than the 15 mile advertised finished in 66th in 2.11 followed by Jenny Cooper in 2.21.  Conditions made the coming tough especially with an 11am kick off.  The tea and cake stall at the end made the journey down the M1 all the more worthwhile!!  

21-06-09
The big event of the weekend was contested around the streets of Leeds City Centre by almost 11,000 runners in the Jane T Run for All.
 
The festival atmosphere was enjoyed by 14 Pacers who returned impressive times. James Clarke 15th! 36.58, Richard Gibson 40.21, Nigel Craven 42.10, Shaun Denham 44.15, Steve Ellis 51.43, Karen Thrippleton 52.33, Carol Parkinson 53.49, Nicola Bradford 49.33, Joy Good 56.40, Jenny Baldwin 57.36, Zoe Tebbott 59.18 Clare Lenton-Cliffe 1.03.39, Chris Lenton-Cliffe 1.07.52. It was also wonderful to see Arthur James back running in 1.16.33.

15-06-09
Pudsey Pacers hosted the Yorkshire Vets Athletics Association 5th race in a rain soaked valley and Black Carr Woods.  Pudsey put a large team out with three in the top ten for the men, Darren Burnley 6th, Rob Samuels 8th and Paul Gaile 10th.  The ladies did equally well with Karen Pickles maintaining her gold standards winning the ladies event and Diane Wood securing 8th.  In the ‘All to count’ the men are 1st and the ladies 3rd after the five races.
 
Also out on Wednesday was Michael Hern at the Otley 10 finishing two and a half minutes quicker than last year in 1:13:47.


Two trail races were run on Sunday 14th, the shortest was the Mizuno Wave Harrier Castle Howard 10k where Darren Burnley finished 4th in 38.04 and Simon Beverley in 52nd with 47:52.  And the longest was the 76km Bradford Millenium Way Relay a 5 leg hilly course on Public Right of Ways.  Considering the sweltering conditions our 3 teams finished well in 9th, 27th and 38th in strong international field of 43 teams.

10-06-09
The Harewood House Chase 10K was held on Sunday 7th June in the grounds of Harewood House. Perfoming well were Gary Carty 17th Male in 39.35, Paula Bray 19th female in 47.39 and Karen Thrippleton 31st female in 52.35.
 
Results are finally available from the recent YVAA event at Walton. First three home for the men were Robert Samuels 33.10, Paul Gaille 34.10 and Richard Gibson 34.45. First three home for the women were Alyson Glover 44.23, Sarah Turner 46.18 and Joy Good 50.40.
 
Pacers in the money positions are as follows Karen Pickles 2nd F35, Sarah Turner 4th F40, Mandy Bannister 3rd F45 and Joy Good 2nd F50. For the men David Cooper 3rd M35, Paul Gaille 1st M40, John Marshall 2nd M40 and Jim Wheldon 2nd M55.
 
The Pacers ladies now lie 3rd in the All to Count and 4th in the First Four to Count, Men lie 3rd in the All to Count and 3rd in the First Four to count.
 
All over 35's are now required to run at the Pudsey Vets race on the 10-06-09.

08-06-09
The midweek Bronte 5 was well attended by the Pacers with Karen Pickles winning the Ladies race in 30.41, Dave Butler brought the men home in 33.50 followed by, Gary Phillips 34.16, Jon Popiolek 38.16, Sue Ransome 39.06, Trish Cutts 43.35 and Joy Good 45.01.
Also taking place midweek was the Chevin Fell race, Graham Tiffany was first Pacer in 22.59 followed by Tasmin Constable 30.49.

Over the weekend a number of events were on offer. The most challenging being the Wharfedale Off Road Half Marathon one of the highlights of the racing year. First home for the Pacers was Sean Casey 1.51.41, Dave Cooper 1.59.43, Darryl Stead 2.07.57 and Jenny Cooper in a tremendous time of 2.21.00. Also completing the Wharfedale Half Marathon was Anna Quinlan in a fine 2.29.34.
 
James Clarke finished 6th in the Goole Riverbank Challenge in 53.21.
 
Nigel Craven continued his fell running exploits with a 51st place finish in the tough Pen-y-Ghent fell race.

The Greggs Childrens Cancer Run was held at Roundhay Park over 5 miles, Darren Burnley won the race in 29.10 no doubt inspired by Jimmy Saville at the race start. Steak & Ale Pies all round Darren.
 
A lone Pacer took to the mountains of western Scotland this weekend attempting their first Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon at Kintail.  Alan Nowell (PP)and running partner Brian Reynolds (not PP) managed 7:24:19 to complete 23km with 1600m of ascent on Saturday and on Sunday, 6:29:08 to complete 18km with 1360m of ascent.  Over the two days they bagged a Munro, Corbett and a few ailments to boot; but good fun all the same.  

31-05-09
On the hottest day of 2009, Sunday 31 May, a small troop of Pacers joined over 16,000 runners at the Albert Bartlett Edinburgh Marathon.  Survivors of the sweltering heat were Michael Hern in a scorching run of 3:31:39, Pamela Goldthorpe in 3:52:39 pipping Sharon Hague who was home in 3:54:01.  Martin Edwards soldiered on after a sun induced wobble at mile 19 finishing in 4:08:46 followed by Carol Parkinson home in 4:14:45 and Karen Thrippleton sporting a shiny new PB of 4:30:38. These results are hot off the press!

23-05-09
A dynamic duo ventured into Dumfries and Galloway to tackle the Kirkcudbright Half Marathon last Saturday. They joined ex-pacer Mick Turner who completed an impromptu trio to run the quiet country lanes of Kirkcudbright. Although it was wet and windy on the undulating course Jim Wheldon finished 34th in 1:27:25, Dominic Egan in 94th 1:43:30 (running for 1st claim club - Otley A.C.) and Mick Turner 122nd in 1:47:52.
 
Also running in threes were Mark & Phillipa Dixson and Dominic’s other half Wendy Burge at the Beeches 11k.  Mark was 6th overall in 47:47 & 2nd MV40 - a big step back on the road to recovery and both Phillipa and Wendy finished joint 61st in 75:10.

24-05-09
Black sheep series continued in Melmerby on Sunday with two Pacers out on the quickest  10k of the set.  Powering down those narrow lanes Darren Burnley was 2nd in 35:01 whilst Richard Gibson was 29th in a strong field finishing in 38:55 continuing his run of  sub 40 10k’s!  
 
To be eligible for a Race Series Medal you must complete 4 of the 6 10k races plus both the 10 mile and 1/2 marathon.  Darren Burnley is 2nd overall after 3 races with a total time of 95.20; keep up the good work Darren.
 
24-05-09
Also running on Sunday were seven merry Pacers joining over 300 fell runners to take part in the 2nd running of the Ilkley Trail Race.  This is a category C fell race, run over 6.9 miles and takes in some fantastic views.  
 
The Pacers were joined by running royalty; Ron Hill MBE, who had decided to check out the younger competition in Yorkshire this weekend.  Our very own king of the hills, Nigel Craven brought the Pacers home maintaining the excellent start to his fell running career by finishing in 52.47, Dave Cooper was next continuing his come back with a fine 55.06.  Nicola Bradford and Paula Bray both put in excellent performances to finish in 61.42 and 63.13 respectively.  Alyson Glover was next home in 65.19, followed by Jenny Cooper 67.28 who made a tentative return to trail running, she was followed by Dave Shipley who was home in 70.44.  The glorious weather and excellent organisation made for a great morning.

21-05-09
The Apperley bridge canter was run last Thursday by seventeen Pacers.  The evening run through mixed terrain saw some good times for the 10k course. First home for us was James Clark in sixth position (37:38) followed by Robert Samuels in 8th and 2nd  M45 to boot (38:57).  Karen Pickles was first lady home in the field and 10th overall in 39:18 maintaining her standing as one of the Yorkshire elite.
 
Great efforts continued from the Pacers with the following members in the order home; Gary Carty (16th 40:51), Dave Butler (29th 43:08), Nigel Craven (39th 43:55), Gary Phillips (41st 44.05), Simon Beverley (45th 44:35), Phil Dutton (46th 44:40), Susan Ransome (51:08), Don Stead (54:03), Karen Thrippleton (55:33)

17-05-09
A quick update from last week’s outing in Driffield. I failed to recognise the hard work put in by our chairwoman Trish, having knocked 1 minute 40 off last year’s time she also secured the LV50 title some 3 and half minutes ahead of her nearest rival. Also missed off the honours was Rob Samuels in 2nd MV45; well done both.
 
20-5-09
The last of the John Carr Series races hosted by St. Bedes was held on Wednesday 20th May.  The three 5K’s are raced in memory of a former member of the club who tragically died aged 30 and are always well attended, 200 plus at each race.  The course is fairly flat and fast running around the Yorkshire Water estate and finishes in the village of Esholt; apparently ideal for a pb!

Solid performances all round from the small Pudsey pack that completed all 3 races, results as follows:
Karen Pickles did 17.56, 17.40 & 17.45 to finish 1st in the F35 age category, 1st women overall and 20th in the overall rankings (wow).
Alyson Glover - 24.01, 23.29 & 23.05 finishing 4th in F40 category - excellent performance over the 3 weeks.
Karen Thrippleton - made a solid showing also in her preparations for Edinburgh Marathon finishing 5th in F40 category in 25.15, 24.31 & 24.30.
Jenny Cooper - was 7th in FOpen category showing a steady recovery from her London exploits in 25.08, 24.25 & 24.56, although she had cold on week 3 but will do anything for a Mars bar!
David Cooper - the sole male representative showing he's on his way back from injury with a steady performance, finishing 9th in M35 category in 20.38, 20.29 & 20.28.

 
Race 1 was also incorporated into the Yorkshire Vets Championship, those not already noted were Jim Wheldon 19.02 3rd in the M55 YVAA and Debbie Day 25.26.

17-05-09
At the Yorkshire 10k at Newby Hall and Gardens Gary Carty managed a superb 8th place amongst the 347 competitors at this popular event.

17-05-09
The Pudsey Pacers were out in force at Driffield’s Mucky Duck, a scenic 8.5 miler with a surprising set of hills to deal with half way round.  Twenty two ran and with a bus load of support the team managed to bring home a cabinet full of trophies including 1st Mens Team (Darren Burnley 2nd 49:53, James Clarke 7th 52:34 and Nigel Armitage 9th 52:54) and 1st Ladies Team (Sharon Hague 68:10, Nicola Bradford 69:53 and Trish Cutts 71:13).

Other Individual awards went to Paul Gaile securing 1st M40 and Sharon Hague taking the F40 trophy.  It was a great day out which continued in the hostelries of York and Pudsey; thanks go to Sean Casey for organizing a quacking day out!

16-05-09
 The last of the Airedale Triple Trail series was down in the Meanwood Valley; having completed the Guiseley Gallop and the Baildon Boundary Way, three pacers were in the top ten so there was a lot riding on the race.  Robert Samuels came home in 19th (securing 4th in the series and 2nd in the M40 category), next was Karen Pickles 23rd and first lady home (Also, winner of F35 title for the series  and 5th overall). Richard Gibson continued his impressive form pipping Jim Wheldon to the line. Richard finished the series in 11th and Jim came 8th overall and 2nd M50.
 
Other Pacers out in the valley were Gary Phillips, Alyson Glover, Karen Thrippleton, Anna Quinlan, Gemma Storr, Simon Johnson, Zoe Tebbut, and the Wood Clan of Arthur, Stacey and Jonathan Kite, all closing the race in 91:27!

14-05-09
The sole Pudsey Pacer registered in the Black Sheep Series is Darren Burnley. The latest race was the Ripon 10 on Sunday. Darren came fourth with a fine 60.19 and now leads both the overall mens table and MV40 group. The next race is the super fast Melmerby 10K on the 24-05-09.

12-05-09
 Two Pacers were out on the Ilkely fells this week running the 5.2 mile, 1150 feet Jack Bloor race, Grahame Tiffany was home first in 58th  (50:08) and Nigel Craven not far behind in 84th (52:02).

10-05-09
The challenging Leeds Half Marathon route attracted 33 runners from the Pudsey Pacers. The headlines must involve Super Vet Don Stead winning the Male 70+ crown in an incredible 1.45.48.
Nearer the front were younger members of the club posting impressive personal bests. First Pacer home was Ryan Turnbull in 1.18.59 followed by James Clarke 1.20.41, Paul Gaille 1.25.06 and Jim Wheldon 1.26.14 (3rd M55)
Other Personal bests recorded on the day were Richard Gibson 1.27.44, Micheal Hern 1.27.57, Alistair Chapman 1.32.32, Simon Beverley 1.37.05, Chris Wilson 1.38.52, David Byrom 1.39.06 and David Hudson 1.41.08.
The ladies were led home by Emily Lawrence in 1.39.44 followed by PB's for Claire Gratton 1.41.26, Catherine O'leary-Steele 1.45.46, Lisa Heath 1.46.53, Nicole Bedford 1.46.39, Paula Bray 1.47.41 and Debbie Day 1.58.49. Special mention should go to Anna Quinlan who completed her first ever Half Marathon in 1.57.41. A great effort after several weeks of Thursday long runs, well done!
 
10-05-09
Nigel Craven opted for the hills around Mytholmroyd for the annual 7 mile fell race with 1350' of ascent, he finished in a creditable 44th place.

06-05-09
Fell novice Nigel Craven continued his introduction to the fells by completing Flower Scar at Todmorden. The 4 mile route with 1400' of ascent was completed in an impressive 40.24 to give him a 51st place finish. Will he now be brave enough to tackle Paddy's Pole or Tigger's Todger both due in May?

03-05-09
Eight Pacers travelled to Halifax to tackle the Bluebell 10 including the infamous trek up Trooper Lane. Karen Pickles continued her winning form to take the ladies crown in 1.16.36. Sean Casey took the honours as first male Pacer home in 1.22.59. Other runners completing this deceptively named race were Gary Phillips 1.26.18, Alyson Glover 1.52.50, Joy Good 2.00.57, Jayne Greenshill and her pacemaker (Kev) 2.03.29 and Zoe Tebbutt 2.11.28. The river crossing at the end was a welcome reward at the end of a tough 10 mile route.

04-05-09
The Rothwell 10K has a reputation as being one of the fastest 10K’s in the country, this was put to the test by a large Pacers contingent in damp conditions on Bank Holiday Monday.
First home in a new PB was Darren Burnley in a scorching 34.02. Numerous Pacers recorded new Personal bests including Ryan Turnbull 35.07, Gary Carty 38.30, Richard Gibson 38.31, Michael Hern 39.21, David Byrom 43.01, David Hudson 43.53, Clare Gratton 44.02, Paula Bray 47.03, Steve Ellis 47.56, Sarah Turner 50.19, Carol Parkinson 50.21, Karen Thrippleton 50.53 and Debbie Day 52.16.
A special mention should go to Alyson Glover and Joy Good who completed the Bluebell and Rothwell double over the weekend.
 
04-05-09
The sole Pacer running at the scenic Kirbymoorside 10K was Stephen Pattison home in a respectable 48.56.

25-04-09
The gruelling Three Peaks Mountain Marathon was held on Saturday for the 55th time. Fell legend Rob Jebb was first back to Horton-in-Ribblesdale followed swiftly by Pacers Jim Wheldon (167) 4.06.58, Nigel Armitage (251) 4.19.28 and Shaun Denham (318) 4.30.18. A great effort from all three runners with numerous competitors being pulled from the race at The Hill Inn after failing to make the cut off time.
 
26-04-09
The magnificent seven travelled to the capital to take on the Flora London Marathon. In hot conditions the first Pacer back to the Palace was Paul Gaille 2.53.15 followed in order by Dave Butler 3.22.13, Sue Ransome with a superb 3.39.54 and new PB, Dave Burden 3.40.28, Jenny Cooper 4.10.57 (PB), Anne Gowing 4.23.26 (PB) and David Shipley 5.05.24. Various Pacers were reported to be later seen wandering round London ’s hostelries with inane grins flashing their medals.
 
26-04-09
A strong contingent of Pacers travelled to the popular Sheffield Half Marathon probably drawn to the setting within the Don Valley Stadium and the grandstand sprint finish. Richard Gibson took all the plaudits with a new PB of 1.28.54 and reportedly took several competitors out on his dash to the line a la Usain Bolt.
Also competing were Nigel Craven 1.30.38, Michael Hearn 1.32.49, Simon Beverley just making the start line after hitting gridlock outside the stadium 1.37.12, Martyn Edwards (PB) 1.39.44, David Byrom 1.41.54, Pam Goldthorpe 1.42.34, Roy Bamforth 1.44.22, Steve Ellis 1.50.00, Paula Bray 1.50.53 (PB), Don Stead 1.54.28, Karen Thrippleton 1.57.37, Carol Parkinson 1.58.12, Catherine Olery-Steele 1.58.27 and Debbie Day 1.59.07.

In the team event Pudsey were 24th with the first four home counting

26-04-09
In the first race of the Black Sheep Series, Darren Burnley headed to Ripon for the Fountains 10K. Confirming his great form at present he won the race by almost 3 minutes in 36.09 and takes a big lead in the race for the Gold medal awarded to the series winner. After suffering third degree burns to his head at the Plate race he clearly didn't want to hang around in the hot conditions.
 
Dave Woodhead ran well at the Bolton 10K home in 26th place in 39.20.

20/04/09
Regional winners and runners up of Winter Cross Country Leagues across the country descended on Stainland, Halifax for the National Cross Country Championship. The race is usually held in the Midlands but had been moved to the North for the day. Winners of the West Yorkshire Winter League league Stainland Lions hosted the event and Pudsey Pacers attended as runners up.
The move to the North had obviously put off numerous teams either due to the challenging 5.5 mile course more akin to a fell race or the distance to travel. However strong teams did attend from Liverpool Running Club, Farnham Athletic, Hutton Darts and Hinckley. Due to the poor attendance one race was held and two trophies awarded to the top teams.

Stainland won the overall race with Ben Mounsey first man home, however Pudsey Pacers ran superbly with a strong team showing to claim the Plate race. Male counters were in order Darren Burnley, James Clarke, Rogan Ashton, Nigel Armitage, Jon Prideaux and Andy Teale. Female counters were Karen Pickles, Dianne Wood and Sharon Hague. Pudsey had a further 29 runners tackling the course.
Stainland should be congratulated for the superb organisation on the day, runners being ferried to the start high in the hills of by minibus and marquees available for baggage and refreshment.
A return to the Midlands is likely to take place next year to boost attendance but all teams and the race referee commented that it had been great event.




After the race the economy of Halifax took an unexpected boost as the team descended on the town centre in the mood to celebrate.
Thoughts now turn to longer distances with many of the team taking on the London Marathon, Sheffield Half Marathon and Three Peaks Race next weekend, hopefully in cooler conditions.

14/04/09
The Pudsey Pacers enjoyed warm sunshine again this weekend at the Guiseley Gallop multi terrain 10K event. Darren Burnley continues his fine form with 1st M40 in 38.05, Karen Pickles was 1st F35 in 40.36. Also running well were Robert Samuels 40.04, Jim Wheldon 42.53, Richard Gibson returning from injury 43.20, Jonh Marshall 43.23, Gary Phillips 45.01, Alison Glover 56.49, Sarah Turner 58.30 and Joy Good 62.28.

Nigel Craven went hunting a PB at the Friskney Half Marathon, he just missed out with 1.31.33 but will be confident of completing his quest at Sheffield in a couple of weeks.

James Clarke ran at the Salford 10k also just missing a PB with 36.48.
Next week the Pacers at competing in the Cross Country Plate Race at Stainland, all members are asked to run and help bring home the silverware.

07/04/09
Karen Pickles was in fact awarded the new course record for the Baildon Boundary Way in 1.28.07 and received £50 for her efforts. The previous record was clearly on a shorter route.
 
At the Wakefield 10K James Clarke continued his run of great form and came home in 18th place in 35.58, supported by Dave Butler in 40.37 just outside the magic 40 minutes.

The 15th running of the challenging Baildon Boundary Way welcomed 20 Pudsey Pacers willing to tackle both the unseasonal heat and the tough inclines of the 13 mile route. Karen Pickles led the way and won the ladies race in 1.28 just missing the course record of 1.27.24 held since 1997 by Carol Greenwood of Bingley Harriers, next year KP!.
Paul Gaille brought the men home in 1.28 for a 19th place finish. Robert Samuels returning from injury had a superb race breaking 90 minutes with 1.29. Jim Wheldon was 2nd M50 with 1.33. Numerous Pacers were running under assumed names so other highlights appear to have been Richard Gibson 1.39, Sean Casey (AKA Mark) 1.41, Darryl Stead 1.49, Gary Phillips (AKA Syd) 1.50, Martin Edwards 1.53 and coming out of hibernation Roy Bamforth 1.55. Digger just slipped under 2 hours in 1.59 and then collapsed, Steve Ellis 2.03 and Arthur Wood 2.24.
Karen was supported by Jenny Cooper 2.10, Carol ?? 2.13 and Karen Thrippleton 2.14.
Bringing up the rear were Jon Pop, Trish Cutts and Ann Francis in a leisurely round thanks to Trish nursing a broken toe - the rumoured stop for tea and cakes at Salts Mill being unconfirmed so far.
All Pacers running welcomed the great support on route at Esholt, Saltaire and Hirst Wood Locks, cheers folks.

30/03/09
The Pacers continue to make headway in the Yorkshire Veterans’ Athletic Association 2009 Grand Prix scoring well at the recent Meltham event on Sunday 22 March.  It was a challenging course that lead to a number of injuries however after two races the Pacers men lie 2nd in the ‘all to count’  with 5827 points and the ladies 3rd with 1245.  Karen Pickles won the ladies race with Mandy Bannister 24th and Sarah Turner 26th.  Individual league tables are shaping up nicely for the Pacers with Karen Pickles leading the F35 category; Sarah Turner, Debra Day and Zoe Tebbutt 6th,7th and 8th in F40, Mandy Bannister 4th for F45 and Joy Good 3rd in F55.  For the men Paul Gaile is 2nd, John Marshall 5th and David Byrom 6th in M40; Jim Wheldon is running strongly sitting 2nd in the M55 category. Look out for more successes at Walton on May 31st.
 
Also on Sunday was a Pacer ladies day out at the East Hull 20 with Sharon Hague coming in first out of the four with a great time of 2.43:20.  Next was Anne Gowing knocking 9 minutes of her PB with 3:04:53, closely followed by Carol Parkinson in 3:09:16 and Karen Thrippleton in 3:15:13 both recording Personal Bests.
 
Last weekend hosted the multi-terrain Arkendale 10k in North Yorkshire in which the Pudsey Pacers latest recruit; Darren Burnley came home with the silver medal, 2nd overall in 36:02.  Dave Cooper continues his recovery from injury logging 46:55 with Jenny Cooper finishing strongly on the arduous course in 54:15.
 
Twelve Pacers ran the Epilepsy Action Bradford 10k; James Clark was first home for Pudsey securing 18th overall in 35:28. Next home was the rising star Ryan Turnbull in 36:04 a great run considering his sparse race history followed by the evergreen Jim Wheldon 4th in the M50 category, John Marshall in 39:42 and Pacer Vince Bussingham running for his first claim Eccleshill finishing in 40:20. Susan Ransome  lead the ladies home and was 2nd F50 with 47:19 and Sarah Turner improved her PB with a run of 51:24.  Also worth noting was Arthur James 2nd place M70.

17/03/09
A late result came from an Ultra-Pacer running last Friday 6 March.  Shaun Denham completed 42 miles, yes that’s forty two miles in Derbyshire’s mountainous terrain for the High Peak Marathon.  He managed this feat by torchlight in an amazing 12 hours; apparently it was fun, though I can think of a few more accurate nouns to describe the experience!

Perfect weather conditions lead to a succession of good performances and PB's for the Pacers at the Spen 20 on Sunday. The guest appearance by local celeb "Nell McAndrew" certainly made the lads’ day although not many were in close proximity as she was 3rd lady home!
 
James Kovacs running under his 1st claim club Salford finished 3rd overall in 1.55.27.  Paul Gaille was 8th in M40 category in 2.11.57 and Dave Butler got a new PB in 2.26.17.  Steve Wood, also running in this 1st claim club colours (Pocklington) was close behind in 2.26.41 (PB).  Dave Woodhead 2.29.50, Mick Hearn 2.37.03 (PB) and John Woodhead 10th in M55 in 3.21.22. (PB)
 
The ladies were thin on the ground but nevertheless determined as was shown by Sue Ransome with an awesome performance to claim 1st F50 in a time of 2.41.19 (PB), 30 minutes in front of the next F50!!. Jenny Cooper ground out a time of 3.10.34 securing  14th in F Open category thanks to her new trainers… or was that trainer Dave?!
 
Over the Border, Matt Harrison and Dave Burdon were pounding out another score on the tarmac at the Trimpell 20 in Lancashire.  I’m sure the River Lune, it’s smooth tracks and relatively traffic free course kept the chaps in a positive spirits as both finished in good times of 02:29:42 and 02:52:26 respectively.  Looks like Dave B is back on the road to recovery for the FLM.
 
And finally, to our roving Pacer sampling the delights of the South West again.  Anne G was seen emerging from the Forest of Dean (half marathon) all hot and sweaty thanks to 13 and-a-bit miles of undulating forestry commission bike tracks.  With a time of 1:58:42 Anne was 826 out of a field of some 1800 runners, though,  you wouldn’t have got me to travel all that way to deal with a number of cycle-paths running around the woods!

09/03/09
It would seem that only two pacers needed to stretch their race legs this weekend.  Jim Wheldon had an outing across the border at the Half Tour of Pendle; the first round of the English Fell Championships a 2250 feet ascent over a challenging 9 mile course. Jim came fifth in the M55 in 01:23:29 however, we need to have words with those P&B lot, they seem to have nobbled the results and claimed him for their own.  I’m sure it’s a typo yet, Jim could have secured a fell-running timeshare a la Beckham?! Look out for the next report for the conclusion of this scandal.
Anne Gowing was representing the Pacers a little further afield in Gloucester on Sunday, finishing the 20 mile race in 3:13:08. The West Country shall be seeing a lot more of Anne over the next few weeks, we hope the regular intake of cider and cheese doesn’t affect her performance in the Forest of Dean Half next week.

02/03/09
Firstly, I would like to make an addendum to last week’s report of the Ilkley Fell Race. We should all be ba’tat in honour of Russell Stead’s courageous efforts last week.  After taking a severe tumble in a crowded pack, he managed to regain his feet and secure a valiant middle order finish albeit a few pints of blood lighter.  The only stitch encountered were those administered at the A&E department after!  I’m sure you will join me in wishing Russell a swift recovery; thanks to Jonathan and Jim for the update on this.  
 
Now on to more recent events; Saturday 28 February saw 250 runners pound the rigorous Noon Stone Fell Course over in Todmorden.  Our representatives were Jim Wheldon taking 2nd place in the M55 class 1:31:39 (87th overall), Nigel Armitage 98th in 1:32:36 and Nigel Craven 134th in 1:37:39.  The course was a tough 9 miles over 2300 feet of climbing, it was bleak on the tops with a Pacer having to bog-snorkel to keep momentum; no improvements to time were noted, however it did do wonders to Nigel C’s complexion!
 
The intrepid Graeme Tiffany was 3rd overall and 1st Vet home in the New Chew fell-running navigation event on the 1st of March. Held in the notoriously boggy and testing Saddleworth Moor / Black Hill area of the Peak District competitors had four and a half hours to visit as many checkpoints as possible; no injuries or facial regimes to report at this event.
 
Also on Sunday, a trio of road runners travelled over to the Penrith for the scenic Haweswater Half Marathon.  Martin Edwards was first home in1:42:32, followed by Chris Stanley in 1:46:12 and Karen Thrippleton in 2:03:17. Well done one and all.

23/02/09
The Pudsey Pacers have been busy over the last two weekends with members dashing around Yorkshire to compete.

On Valentines day the 31st Yorkshire Vets AA XC championship was held in York. The men (35-49) of Pudsey come 6th; thanks to Nigel Armitage, Russell Stead and John Marshall.  In the young at heart category (50-69) Jim Wheldon, Nigel Craven and Gary Phillips secured a respectable 10th place in a strong category.  The ladies who love to run were led by Sharon Hague followed by Alyson Glover, Samantha Raven, Carole Parkinson, Sarah Turner and Debbie Shipley.  The ladies came 9th in the ‘3 to count’ and in the ‘all to count’ claimed 2nd place. 

Thirteen Pacers with a passion for hills took on the Liversedge Half Marathon on Sunday 15th February . James Clark 20th and Paul Gaile 22nd were separated by only 21 seconds around the 1:24 mark and Martin Edwards clocked a PB time of 1:40:12.  Those others battling over the contours and who their cards were from, were in finishing order: Michel Hern, Dave Butler, Martin Edwards, Paul Ebrey, Susan Ransome, David Hudson, Don Stead, Karen Thrippleton, Alyson Glover, Stephen Ellis and Debra Day. click here for some great images courtesy of Andrew Thrippleton.

Sunday 22nd split the Pacers attendance at two races.  At the Huddersfield Road Runners 10K James Clarke was in fine form coming 15th in 38:31 with Karen Pickles closing in rapidly, winning the ladies race in 38:51. Nigel Craven and Alistair Chapman finished 89th and 119th respectively in a 500 strong field.

Over in Pocklington, York, the Snake Lane 10mile course told the whole story of a running club; Richard Gibson (1:06:26), Mark Dixson (1:09:42), Karen Thrippleton (1:26:55) and Debra Day (1:29:26) recorded new PB’s and Anne Gowing was our debut runner home in 1:30 dead.  Mrs Jenny Cooper lead the ladies home with a ‘Season’s Best’ of 1:25:20 and Mr Dave Cooper was looking in good shape on his road to recovery, finishing in 1:13:02.  And finally it is worth noting our Evergreen Don Stead won another title in the M70 category. click here for some great images courtesy of Andrew Thrippleton.

The Ilkley Moor Fell Race is a demanding short category A ranging 5 miles with 1260 feet of climbing. It’s ‘hard and not suitable for beginners’, however Jonathan Webber in the early days of his fell-running career was not left ba’tat on the moor pippin’ the experienced Russell Stead by 17 seconds. They came 208th and 214th  out of a herd of 390.

10/02/09
A crisp Baildon afternoon hosted the final race of the West Yorkshire Winter League Cross Country.  The snow covered moors and frozen fields did not diminish the efforts of the Pudsey Pacers final push for the line; notably Karen Pickles finishing first for the ladies and Jon Prideaux in fourth for the men. 

Following the combined tall, Pudsey successfully held off the challenge of Dewsbury by a close run 11 points and secured 2nd place overall.  The League has secured a coup for the region with the National Finals to be hosted in April at Stainland, the WYWL champions. The Pacers will be filling the Big Yellow Bus again to ensure some silverware is brought home from the Plate Final.

02/02/09
An impressive weekend for Pudsey Pacers at the Dewsbury 10K and Yorskshire Vets Grand Prix Race 1 Horsforth.
 
Leading the way at Dewsbury was James Clarke 35.49, Richard Gibson set a new PB and broke 40 minutes in 39.09, Matt Harrison 39.42. Also seting new PB's were Martn Edwards 43.34 & Sharon Hague 44.50.
 
On a superb new course at Horsforth the Pacers Vets team ran well on the muddy and hilly terain, Karen Pickles 4th, Paul Gaille 5th (2nd V40) Russell Stead 7th, Jim Wheldon (2nd V55). Sam Raven ran strongly to finish 2nd Pacers lady home.

27/01/09
Pudsey hosted the fourth event of the WYWL  X Country on Sunday. Some 42 Pacers turned out at the course in Black Carr Woods which was a complete mud fest. The Pacers men were 2nd on the day. The scorers were James Kovacs, Jonathan Prideaux, James Clarke, Nigel Armitage, Russell Stead, Paul Gaille and Darren Burnley. The women lie 4th with Karen Pickles, Diane Wood and Sharon Haigh first home. Overall going into the final race at Baildon, the Pacers lie 2nd.
 
Karen Pickles is clear in 1st place overall in the womens competition. Joy Good leads the Dowson Trophy by +2 going into the final race. Carbo loading, speed sessions and no alchohol for the next two weeks Joy! In the Turpin Trophy the only Pacer in with a shout is Jonathan Webber who needs to find 7 places. Of course we could resort to nobbling the leader Peter Helliwell from Idle AC!
 
Dewsbury are hot on our heels so all members are encouraged to join the fun bus for the trip to Baildon and help the Pacers into the National XC Champs.
 
Martin Edwards was the sole Pacer at the Meltham 10K in 47.29.
 
Further afield at the Ferriby 10, Karen Thrippleton 89.32 and Sarah Dutson 89.41 represented the club and both ran well managing PB's.

9/01/09
In perfect conditions for the Brass Monkey Half Marathon at the Knavesmire a number of Pacers achieved lifetime bests.
First Pacer home was Paul Gaille in 1.21.30, leading the PB's was Nigel Craven in 1.30 (why does 1.29 sound so much better!) Paul Ebray 1.38 and Al Nowell 1.40. The evergreen Don Stead was in top form, claiming first place in the M70 category. The women were led home by Emily Lawrence & Sharon Hague both in  superb times of 1.39. Other Pacers women performing PB's were Anne Gowling 1.56, Karen Thrippleton 1.56, Debbie Day 1.57, Sue Thompson 1.58 and Joanna Nicholson 2.01.
New recruit Darren Burnley running the distance for the first time clocked 1.17.36, his Pacers registration form is ready for signature.

12/01/09
An intepid team of Pacers ventured to the frozen wastelands of Rotherham to compete in the Yorkshire XC Championships on Saturday. On a frozen 11 k course representatives from 52 clubs across Yorkshire battled it out.
The Pacers finished in a respectable 21st place. Russell Stead led the way with a superb 108th place (41.04), Andy Teale 132 (42.16), Paul Gaille 144 (43.21),
Captain Jim Wheldon 149 (43.35), Nigel Craven 167 (45.56), Paul Ebrey 191 (48.43) and anchoring the team and picked for his blocking ability, Digger in 197 (50.21).
Also running for the first claim clubs were Gary Bailey in 36.52 and Jonathan Prideaux 38.41. The standard of the field meant that Olympian Alistair Brownlee could only finish in 3rd place.

05/01/09
A large contingent of Pacers ran in the 3rd leg of the WYWL event at Stainland on sunday. On a challenging course both men and womens teams ran well to finish 2nd (m) and 5th (f) on the day. Leading the women home and winning the race was Karen Pickles clearly in great form at the moment, other members did well to complete, clearly having enjoyed the festive period! Going into event four the men lie 2nd and the women 4th, overall the club are in 3rd place. The next event is on the 25th Jan in Black Carr Wood, Pudsey and all members are asked to pull on a vest and run.

Sole Pacer at the Penine 10k was also the oldest member, Arthur James home in a respectable 1.14.