|
DECEMBER 2007 |
|
30th December |
? |
|
23rd
December |
? |
|
18th
December |
Due to the
post-run meeting in 'The Buff' for a
drink, London Marathon draw and charity
raffle, this evening's run was shorter
than usual. However, we managed six plus
miles, and viewed some notable Christmas
lights in Farnborough and Crofton. We
also fitted in a few sprints including a
final dash to the old lamp post. This
run could be described as 'festive and
frantic' but also as 'relaxing and
enjoyable'. CW |
|
11th
December |
? |
|
4th
December |
We had
eighteen of us in the long group this
mild,dry evening. Having set off
rapidly, we eased the pace through
Orpington High Street and continued to
Poverest lights , then up to Petts Wood.
Soon, we passed through the Coppice
Estate, over the fields and out onto
Bromley Common.
From here to Locks Bottom we 'ran at our
own pace'; from there to Tubbenden Lane
we ran 'back to front'. After a slow
section to recover we sprinted for the
finish....... then came the sting in the
tail, in the form of a trot around the
block followed by another sprint to the
finish. What enjoyment we had in
covering these 9.25 miles !
Human nature note: considerate
motorists were on the roads again this
evening. |
|
NOVEMBER
2007 |
|
27th
November |
Tonight
was a pleasant contrast to last week's
weather, back to T-shirts and shorts.
The destination was Sidcup lights
(traffic lights), and they did not
disappoint. Our route wound through
Crofton, Poverest and Bull Lane,
Chislehurst to the centre of Sidcup
where we watched the lights change.
Our return took us down to Foots Cray
and up the Cray Valley as far as The
'Buff', which we reached with our final
flourish. We 'clocked-in' at 'The Buff'
before 9.45pm having covered 11.45
miles. Many thanks to Mark T. and Annie
McD. for alerting us to the presence of
a blue plaque, on a house in Bull Lane,
commemorating Lord Ted Willis,
playwright and author, who lived there
for many years until his death in 1992.
CW |
|
20th
November |
It was a
cold, wet, November evening, but our
spirits were up as we headed for the
hills.
The long group spent an hour and a half
running up and down various hills on the
western side of Orpington High Street.
Some hills were steep and some were not
so steep, but longer.
Some we ran up once, some we ran up six
times. All were fun and at the end we
had enough energy for a sprint finish.
We had completed just over eight miles.
CW |
|
13th
November |
Eighteen
of us on this 'fresh', dry evening set
out on the 'long run'. For a warm-up we
ran to Hewitts roundabout where we split
into two groups. One group took the high
road and the other the low road to
Polhill roundabout. This was not
intended as a race, but, hearteningly,
it was treated as such and we all
arrived suitably breathless.
Gently we returned to Pratts Bottom then
ran 'back to front' sprints to Green St
Green. More exhaustion. To wind down we
went up to Farnborough and down the hill
again to finish with another sprint to
the lamp post. This was an energetic
run which covered nearly 9.5 miles.
CW |
|
6th
November |
? |
|
OCTOBER
2007 |
|
30th
October |
A cool and
dry evening saw a good number turn out
for the 'long group'. We had a very
straightforward and surprisingly
enjoyable run --- 5.5 miles out, and 5.5
miles back on exactly the same route.
Some returned earlier than others and
ten of us completed the total distance.
Our furthermost point was 'The Beech
Tree' pub in the north of Bromley, so we
ran up and down the A21. An
energetically respectable pace was
maintained throughout. CW |
|
23rd
October |
A clear
sky and a bright, not yet full, moon
were very tempting, so off set the long
group to Pratts Bottom and up Hookwood
Lane to the top of Rushmore Hill. From
here Mark took some of us on a shorter
route to Budgins Hill and Fairtrough,
returning to the main road down
Charmwood Lane.
The rest of us continued up Blueberry
Lane to Knockholt Church and Brasted
Lane before turning down to the 'Tally
Ho'. Our route home was via Letts Green,
Washneys and Fairtrough.
Total distance covered was eleven miles,
including a net climb of 550 feet to the
top of the North Downs. This was a
fairly quick, very enjoyable, rural run
which was 'made' by 'the light of the
silvery moon'. CW |
|
16th
October |
The
forecast rain held off for this
evening's run. It was a short affair,
due to yours truly's post-run birthday
drink. Nevertheless, we enjoyed a seven
mile route through Petts Wood and
Bromley Common. It was a big turn-out
too -- some twenty-five of us. CW |
|
9th October |
This
evening's 'long' run can be described in
one word - short and sharp. In an ideal
running temperature and with no rain
after a wet day, we tackled St. Mary
Cray, Poverest, Petts Wood, Crofton and
Farnborough. The group was well-matched,
and kept up a good pace throughout the
8.5 miles, which culminated in a quick
sprint. CW |
|
2nd October |
Thanks very much to Richard Smith
for taking last week's run to Polhill. Nine
and a half miles were covered and interspersed
with our favourite winter activity-- 'leap-frogging'
( also known as 'running back to front').
Thanks again.
A mild early October evening saw eighteen
of us take off in the 'long run'. We stayed
close to 'The Buff', our furthest point
being the top of the hill ( which we ran
up five times ) on the Beechwood Estate.
Other areas visited were Glentrammon and
Vine Road, all with repeated hills and circuits
to keep us busy.
Total distance covered, unknown;
total running time, 1hr 25min;
total energy expended, plenty;
total conversation between bursts of speed,
plenty;
total conversation during bursts of speed,
nil.
CW |
|
SEPTEMBER
2007 |
|
25th
September |
Chas
Waterman was away, so we just have to twiddle
our thumbs. Oops!
 |
18th
September
Autumnal |
First of all, many thanks to Mark Tennant
for leading last week's run. Everyone enjoyed
his route over ten railway bridges between
Orpington and Bickley which amounted to
eleven miles.
This week we also covered eleven miles,
along Bromley Common and up to Widmore Road
and Blackbrook Lane. We returned via Southborough
and Crofton, all at a 'brisk' pace. Nature
note: two badgers were within a few feet
of us, on the railway embankment near Orpington
Station. |
11th
September
Mild |
As well as the usual faces, the beginners
group had two new faces and a handful of
potential members coming back to give us
a second chance!!! We set off on the
handicap route backwards - no we weren't
running backwards, just following the route
in reverse - although we did cut off one
or two corners. All in all we covered
about 4 miles and were first group back
to The Buff.
We then had a chat about our running ambitions
and it looks like our target is to train
for a marathon in Bordeaux that has wine
stops instead of water stops. With
that in mind looks like next week's route
should be planned as a pub crawl rather
than a run! (P.F.) |
4th
September
A little Chili
|
 As
far as Tuesday evenings are concerned, Autumn
has arrived and we have to confine ourselves
to road running with street lighting. As
far as the weather is concerned, it is still
Summer. On this pleasant evening we
took what has become the traditional 'first
dark run' and went to Chislehurst Common
via Poverest and back through Southborough
and Petts Wood. This is a nine mile run
and a good pace was maintained.
The evening was tinged with sadness because
this was the last regular run (leading his
own group on the 'churches' run) of our
Treasured Treasurer and Webmaster, Peter
Clinch.
The 'long group' joins with all ORRs in
wishing Peter and Helen every happiness
in their new life on the 'Sunny South Coast'. |
|
AUGUST
2007 |
28th August
|
Tonight's 'long group' made a hasty start
along Ted Shemilt's bridleway and up to
Bogey Lane where, within the space of a
few seconds, we spotted one suspicious character,
one pipistrelle bat and one roe deer. What
excitement. We continued to the Wilberforce
Oak, Keston Village and Hayes. We ventured,
in the gloom, across country, past farm
workers using car lights to search for their
bales! On arrival in Oakley Road we paused
outside the former home of a well-known
writer -- well done Annie, who correctly
identified it as that of Richmal Crompton
( author of the 'William' books). Back on
the roads now, we were at 'The Buff' in
no time.
This route, nine-and-a-half miles, covered
no fewer than five Commons :- Keston, West
Wickham, Hayes, Bromley, and Farnborough.
Sadly this was probably the last country
run for this summer, the light has gone.
However, we can look forward to the winter
road runs with the longer distances and
faster pace. |
21st August
Damp & overcast
|
After another wet and grey 'summer' day
there were plenty of ORR's gathered ready
for a run through the dripping countryside.
Secretary Amos made a few announcements
including a verbal wrap on the knuckles
for those who still hadn't paid their subscriptions
for 2007!
Then we split into the usual five groups
and set-off in various directions.
Chris Marshall's
long group responded to a request from one
of its members to re-visit a dene
hole on the High Elms Estate, which they
we duly did, followed by a circuitous run
over Farnborough Fields to 'make the most
of the light'. Their evening finished with
a run along Tubbenden Lane to the War Memorial
and back to 'The Buff'. This elite group
covered eight and a half miles, which included
much discussion on, and peering into, 'the
hole'. |
14th August
Wet & windy |
This week saw the first of what we hope
will become a regular series.
We were challenged
by Petts Wood Runners to a Mob Match
over a 3 mile course around Petts Wood.
Nearly 60 ORR members turned up on a wet
and gloomy evening at the Memorial Hall.
The race took us along Southborough Lane,
Blackbrook Lane, Thorney Wood and Jubilee
Park, before crossing the railway bridge
to Great Thrift and a finish in Willett
Rec. We significantly out gunned Petts Wood
in terms of numbers even if they did manage
to get the first runner and first lady home.
As a result ORR won
the match and the Laces Trophy that
Petts Wood presented. Despite the weather,
it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening rounded
off with a chance to socialise with our
near neighbours in the Daylight Inn.
At the same time about 20 runners gathered
at The Buff for a very wet tour of High
Elms led by Peter Clinch. |
7th August
Overcast but dry |
Peter Amos explained
about next week's mob match against Petts
Wood Runners, where about forty of our members
will gather in the Memorial Gardens
rather than The Buff. However there
will be some runners gathering at the usual
place next Tuesday.
About 70 runners split into five groups
and set off under very threatening skies
fearing that they were all about to get
soaked. Jan Lenton's
'medium group' enjoyed what little sun there
was peering between the clouds as
they scampered over the peaks and troughs
of High Elms.
Nick Moran's 'long group' of seventeen runners
enjoyed the very pleasant temperature in
which to run this evening. They headed off
towards to Chelsfield golf course, then
onto the Rock and Fountain pub (now closed),
Well Hill and the footpath bridge which
crosses the M25 spur. Continuing via Badgers
Mount and Halstead to Pratts Bottom, on
the way enjoying paths and tracks in the
darkening woods. Nick's elites' run culminated
in the usual exhausting sprint to the finishing
line, having run 10.5 tantalising miles,
many of which were new to Tuesday evenings.
Many thanks for a great run to Nick (The
Shadow) Moran! |
|
JULY
2007 |
31st July
Warm, clear & dry |
Well it would appear that summer has arrived
at last! For the
second week running we have had a glorious
evening in which to run. Peter A.
was still in Cornwall so John Mackay brought
us to order and announced the forthcoming
'mob match' with Petts Wood Runners on August
14th.
We then split into about five groups and
set off for various sunlit pastures.
Chris Marshall's
'long group' took advantage of the
glorious weather and set off climbing steadily
to Chelsfield and then followed the famous
circular route named after that village.
It took them to Well Hill and the edge of
Crockenhill, through the fertile market
gardening fields which are typical of the
area, before turning sharp left towards
St Mary Cray. They then increased the pace
through Goddington Park and down Charterhouse
Road; arriving at 'The Buff' at
speed, and on warming down we found that
we they had covered 9.25 agreeable miles.
Jan Lenton's popular 'medium' group spent
the evening criss-crossing the High Elms
Country Park while Michael Bennett's
group were trying out the Petts Wood route
of the 'mob match' in two weeks time.
|
24th July
Sunny & dry
|
What a beautiful
evening for running as about eighty 'yellow
shirts' gathered for a variety of
runs in the countryside. John Mackay announced
the five groups of varying pace and distance.
Nigel Webb's medium-long
group enjoyed a scenic, hilly 6.6 mile run
taking in Norsted Manor, Pratts Bottom and
the Chelsfield Lakes golf course. There
were a few 'category 4' climbs which kept
everyone, apart from Tonia, Christine and
Betty, from talking.
The long group, led by Chris Marshall, spent
the evening in High Elms. They ran
a one mile circuit six times: once to familiarise,
three times in one direction at an increasing
pace, and twice in the opposite direction
at a comfortable and energetic speed. As
they were then all suitably exhausted they
ran gently to Farnborough Village and prepared
themselves for the final sprint to 'The
Buff'. Total distance covered - a congenial
nine and a half miles. |
17th July
Windy & bright
|
A splendid turnout of about ninety runners
on this very pleasant evening. Peter Amos
& John Mackay were back this week, enabling
them to organise the five or so groups.
Jan Lenton's 'medium' group replicated the
route of a recent local Club's 10k route
taking in Keston Ponds and High Elms.
Chris Marshall's 'long' group ventured on
to new territory for a Tuesday evening,
taking a direct route to Mace Farm and New
Barn Lane, carrying on across fields to
Gray's Farm. From here they joined the 'North
Downs Way' which provided excellent views
over Westerham and beyond the 'Ragstone
Ridge'.
They encountered a couple of herds of cattle,
one of which included calves and a large
red bull (yes, they were on a public footpath).
Fortunately they passed through without
incident. The return run was also fairly
direct, via Letts Green, Washneys and Charmwood
Lane. The spritely group arrived at 'The
Buff' just before 10pm having covered almost
12.5 miles. |
10th July
Sunny, dry & mild
|
A beautiful summer's
evening saw about ninety runners gathered
in the paddock just opposite The Buff.
Peter Amos had a few notices and welcomed
a couple of new members then we split into
our groups, eager to get going on this great
night for running. Nigel led one of the
groups of about twenty on a run heading
for Crockenhill.
This extended 'Chelsfield Circular' has
quite a history as it has long been
considered as the fourth of the clubs summer
classic runs. Once you get past Chelsfield
you scamper across one field after another
and the scenery and horizons just get better
and better. The high plains to the east
of Orpington town centre give you some splendid
views, including a spectacular vista of
the key London landmarks on the horizon,
spectacularly lit on this Tuesday evening
by a beautiful sunset. |
3rd July
Thunder, lightning & rain |
Just as we were gathering just before
eight o'clock,
the heavens opened
and our runners quickly sought shelter
under the new enormous umbrella
The Buff had provided for
its newly expelled smokers. Both John
Mac and Peter Amos were absent tonight
so Peter Clinch announced the four groups,
who all decided to set off together
to scamper up to High Elms. The idea
was that once in the country park there
would be some shelter from the torrential
downpour under the archway of the trees
. Actually by the time we approached
the country park the rain had eased
somewhat and
we saw the most magnificent rainbow
which seemed to end on Nigel's House.
The woodland route smelt so sweet after
the rain but it was certainly a little
muddy underfoot. The weather had obviously
deterred a few members from turning
out tonight, but those that did enjoyed
a refreshing run and the sight of a
spectacularly vivid completed rainbow
arc. |
|
JUNE
2007 |
26th June
Sunny, dry & cool |
Tonight saw the third
of the Club's summer's classic runs - Lullingstone.
At least that was the target, but
as the whole club gathering of about 70
runners headed for the country park, there
were obviously several groups who had more
modest objectives.
John Mackay took
his group on a scenic circular route via
Chelsfield which, at times, resembled
an assault course. Once electric fences
had been scaled his faithful followers had
to fight their way through undergrowth and
across dung heaps. Quite an initiation ceremony
for new members Cindy and Amanda - we hope
they will return next week!
Meanwhile Jan Lenton's group ventured a
little further but it was only Chris Marshall
and Peter Amos's groups who actually made
it to the Lullingstone Country Park and
golf course. Nick Kasper's small band of
runners managed to get itself lost. Having
dropped off the end of the lead groups it
went in a rather confused loop running through
thigh-high corn fields, before
stopping to admire
the sunlit horizon, upon which you
could just about make out the 'Gherkin Building',
Canary Wharf, the London Eye and the new
Wembley Arch. |
19th June
Overcast then showery |
One of the Tuesday evening highlights of
the Club's year the
classic Chevening mid-summer run.
Those hardy souls who wanted to run the
full distance of over 12 miles left Homebase
at 7:30 - while the rest met as usual at
The Buff at 8 o'clock, then drove
up to the Three Horseshoes at Knockholt.
It was impressive to see about 60 yellow
shirts gathered outside this nice country
pub ready for the main push to Chevening.
Chris Marshall set off first with his elite
group on this most scenic of runs. Peter
Amos & John Mackay then lead off the more
modestly paced groups.
After scampering
around the Pilgrim's Way footpath
we then descended into the hamlet of Chevening
just as the church bells were pealing. We
took a refreshing drink of water at the
church tap and then made our way back home
using a slightly different route.
Chevening House is
used by the Foreign Secretary for selective
meetings and conferences. We couldn't
get close enough to see if the present incumbent,
Margaret Beckett was there, nor could we
see where she had parked her caravan.
|
12th June
Cool, clear & bright |
We're getting near
to the longest day so we have to make the
most use of the daylight. Tonight
saw the first of the club's famous trilogy
of summer country runs the
' Nash Circular' named after the
tiny hamlet situated on the high plain just
south west of Keston. Two groups led by
Chris Marshall and Peter Clinch set off
on this scenic run with its hills, long
footpaths and tranquil farmlands. The run
takes in the familiar new Shire Lane path,
Wilberforce Oak and Keston Ponds before
heading for Keston Village then turning
left down a narrow path which leads to Green
Road. Then you climb up to Nash with its
horse riding school and on to one of the
longest and challenging footpaths in the
area. Seems to go on forever, but eventually
you re-join civilisation and then you are
faced with the very steep climb back up
to join Westerham Road. Back through Keston
Ponds to join the bridal path bordering
Keston Park and then drifting down through
Farnborough Village to the Buff to complete
the 9.7 mile run.
If you think that was a challenge...
it's Chevening next week!
|
5th June
Sunny & mild |
A beautiful evening
saw about five different groups heading
for the High Elms Area. How thrilling it
is to be running in your own group and then
see in the distance, another ORR group with
their vivid yellow shirts, filing through
the trees and high crops of the Farnborough
and Shire Lane area.
Jan Lenton's medium group climbed up to
Downe and ran through the Christmas
Farm animal paddocks.
Chris Marshall's
long group went to Knockholt again
this week - but by a different route this
time. In the same hilly and remote country
they ran other paths and lanes to Fairtrough,
Washneys and Knockholt Church then to Horns
Green and New Barn Lane to Berry's Green.
A level run then took them to Luxted, Downe
Court and Downe village, whence it was all
downhill alongside High Elms Road and very
soon reaching The Buff, covering
11.2 miles in total . There was only a vestige
of daylight when the long group returned;
a time that is better described by the group's
Devonian runner, Tim, as 'proper dimpsey'.
|
|
MAY
2007 |
29th May
Dry, bright & cool |
Just over 60 runners
gathered around the 'new' lamppost behind
the hedge on this lovely evening.
After several announcements about the busy
racing calendar at this time of the year,
we split into our groups. Tonight's leaders
included Peter Amos, Jan Lenton, Brian Mead,
Graham Johnson and Chris Marshall.
The long/elite group of about a dozen runners
(numbers a little down this week
due to'half-term'), was headed by Chris
Marshall and enjoyed the ideal temperature
for running and set
off for a twisty and hilly tour of the quiet
countryside between Halstead and Cudham.
The route took them eventually onto the
Cudham Lane footpath at dusk and they just
made it up Old Hill before dark. Their total
mileage tonight was a fun and testing 10.1
miles.
Jan Lenton's medium group sped up towards
Farnborough village then through Farnborough
Fields, across Shire lane then on
towards the Wilberforce Oak. It was a good
night to be wearing tracksuit bottoms as
some of the paths were overgrown with stinging
nettles. |
22nd May
Glorious summer evening
|
A very colourful turnout on this lovely
evening; close to seventy runners. Plenty
of announcements from Secretary Amos
and then we had an award ceremony held
over from last Friday's annual dinner.
Chris Marshall
was inducted into the ORR Fellowship
for his considerable contribution
to the growth and development of the
Club over the last twenty two years.
We then split into running groups, most
of which were off for a familiarisation
run around the Orpington 10k course
in preparation for marshalling
the event on Sunday 24th June. What
a glorious evening it was to enjoy this
challenging 'off road' course that twists
and turns around Farnborough Fields
and the High Elms Country Park. |
15th May
Bright, dry & cool
|
Last call for Friday's
night annual ORR bash from Peter Amos
before we split into about five groups for
tonight's runs. The famous 'medium' group
led by PA - notorious for its lack of re-grouping,
resulted in a couple of breakaway groups
as they encountered the labyrinth of the
Cudham side of the High Elms Country Park.
Chris Marshall's 'long' group of about twenty
runners enjoyed another pleasantly
hilly cross-country run. They took the bridleway
to Downe then continued along footpaths
to Single Street and Berry's Green and the
woodland path into Cudham Valley. The steep
climb up the other side brought them onto
Cudham Lane and they then went straight
over to Cacket's and Lett's Green. Light
was now fading quickly so staying on the
roads to Washneys, Fairtrough and Charmwood
they then re-joined the A21. Increasing
the pace to Bristol St Motors, then relaxing
slightly before the final sprint to
'The Buff'. Total distance covered
- 10.1 miles. |
8th May
Chilly, windy & dry
|
This time of the year there are lots of
events for ORR's to compete in, so club
secretary Peter Amos gave a quick update
of who had run where.
Then we set off in
our groups, mostly heading for High Elms
to see the last of the bluebells.
The country park seems a little hillier
than last year!
The long group, led by Chris Marshall
enjoyed plenty of the local countryside.
They climbed steadily up Snag Lane and continued
via Mace Farm to Cudham Lane and Down House.
From there they made directly, over the
fields, for Farnborough Village, thence
on to the roads for the last two or three
miles which took them to Lovibonds Avenue
and the Tubbenden lane area. Despite having
about 18 in the group they maintained a
good pace throughout and the final sprint
brought the total distance up to 9.75 miles. |
1st May
Bright & warm |
A gathering of about 70 runners listened
to the Club notices from Peter Amos then
split into five groups.
Peter and Allan led
the medium group on a brisk and challenging
run taking in High Elms and the long
path alongside Cudham Road. When they returned
Peter advised that the group had covered
6.9 miles.
Chris Marshall's led the 'long group' of
about sixteen runners. Making the
most of the daylight they went to High Elms,
Cudham Lane, Washneys and Fairtrough. It
then began to get dark but they still managed
the footpath by 'Cooling's' and on to Stonehouse
Lane. Thence to the A21 and across the golf
course behind Knockholt Station and up to
the Orpington-by-pass before finishing down
Warren Road to The Buff. Yet again
the 'long group' had a cheering run with
a good pace and no re-grouping, and a total
distance covered of 9.75 miles. |
|
APRIL
2007 |
24th April
Breezy and warm
|
After a very pleasant sunny day there were
plenty of runners
gathered outside The Buff discussing
last Sunday's London Marathon. Well
done to all our 39 finishers. Eventually when the gossip
died down the groups were announced and
the main destination was High Elms to run
through the last of the bluebells.
On this warm, post-marathon Tuesday evening
some twenty-four
runners joined Chris Marshall's 'long group'.
Fairly gently paced at first they made for
Shire Lane then along Bogey Lane to The
Wilberforce Oak and onto Keston Common.
By now it was nearly dark and they kept
to lighted roads to Locks Bottom, Crofton
and the Tubbenden Lane area. The sprint
finish was left only to those who felt able!
Total miles covered by the long group -
about 8.3. As is traditional with the Club
there was a post marathon de-briefing and
dehydration session in The Buff
afterwards. |
17th April
Cool and dry
|
This was the first time this year that
the daylight allowed us to enjoy some time
in the countryside, as opposed to the roads
and footpaths. Peter
Amos led us all up to to High Elms Country
Park and then he picked up his pen........
As we crossed Old Hill and entered
High Elms in the fading light of dusk I
looked back at the magnificent sight of
a fluorescent file of fifty plus Orpington
Road Runners surging along the track. We
pushed along through the magnificent splendour
of trees, young and old, wondering what
stories they might tell from days of old
when Lord Lubbock of Avebury had his house
in these magnificent surroundings.
Glancing down the aisle of Beechy Walk our
destination was not the ORR bench this time
but the carpet of bluebells and wood anemones
near the HEROS car park. The blue haze was
barely discernible in the gathering gloom
but the heady aroma was smelt by many who
vowed to return to capture its beauty in
an early morning light.
The green carpet of the golf course guided
us back to Farnborough where the pack divided
to take various length routes back to The
Buff.
At the same time
Chris Marshall led his elite group
on their last pre-London Marathon Tuesday
run which could have been a quiet affair,
but turned into a sprightly outing with
the pace being dictated by the marathoners.
A small amount of daylight allowed us to
venture into High Elms before returning
to the streets of Farnborough, from where
we continued to Bromley Common and Petts
Wood. The long footpath by the railway took
us back to Orpington, thence to 'The Buff'.
To guard against last minute injuries the
run culminated in a gentle group finish.
The distance covered was just over nine
miles.
|
10th April
Mild & still
|
Tonight saw the delayed
March Handicap with the added novelty
of a start still, just about, in daylight.
Conditions were about as good as we have
seen for a handicap, mild and still, but
numbers were down with people away after
Easter.
51 people finished and Peter Hunt
pulled up with an injury.
Some good times were achieved especially
by Garry and Dave who took full advantage
of the handicappers handicap to start the
5 mile route off their 10k time! Ian Hailes
was the fastest time of the night at 37.01
for the 10k. Many thanks to Sheila Sherman
who stepped in to help record which allowed
Peter Clinch to have a run for the first
time in a couple of years. Thank you for
the £19 collected tonight as 'entry fees'
which will go to the Club's 2007 designated
charity -
Kent Association for the Blind.
(J.Mc)
|
3rd April
Clear & dry |
This evening Chris
Marshall's 'long group' had a quiet run,
which took them to Hewitt's roundabout,
Knockholt Station then along a couple of
lanes behind Pratts Bottom, back up the
A21 to Tubbenden Lane, through to Southfleet
Road and Sevenoaks Road and the final sprint
to the 'Buff'. They covered a distance
of about eight and a half miles, with no
re-grouping.
Graham and Helen led Jono's Joggers,
Jan Lenton took another group around the
handicap circuit to familiarise some new
members before next week's final event.
Brian Mead led a 'medium' group - Allan
and Peter A. led a small group via the Knoll
to Petts Wood along the dark footpath to
Hastings Road and back, that measured just
short of 8 miles and finally Michael Bennett
took the marathoners on a longer route. |
|
MARCH
2007 |
27th March
Milder, dry & clear |
With the clocks having
gone forward at the weekend we had
the last remnants of daylight as we gathered
at 8 o'clock. It won't be too long before
we have the long evenings and can once again
scamper up to High Elms to enjoy our nearby
countryside. Anyway that's for the future;
tonight saw a large gathering outside
The Buff with one or two new faces
who were trying ORR for the first time -
welcome to our Club.
John Mackay is still recovering from his
broken arm so Peter A. outlined the groups
available for this evening's runs.
There were four runs
on offer ranging from Johno's joggers to
Chris Marshall's elite gazelles.
With the London Marathon looming Michael
B. took some of the ORR squad on a 9-10
miler to enable them to boost their weekly
mileage. Peter A's medium group of about
25 runners took a 5-6 mile tour of local
side roads, footpaths and cul-de-sacs!
As it was the last Tuesday in the month
there was the traditional gathering in
The Buff afterwards for some re-hydration.
It was great to see John Mackay at the bar
with the aforementioned arm, cradled in
a sling and clearly on the mend. |
20th March
Very cold once again |
It was very cold and felt all the colder
after the warm spell that had us all lulled
into thinking Spring had arrived. Michael
Bennett was not well and had sent his apologies
for not being available to lead a medium
group as has done over recent weeks. However
Jim Peters stepped
forward and took a group to Badgers Mount.
Chris again took the long group on a 10ish
mile run while Betty
and Linda led different 6 milers
and Peter A. and Allan took John's usual
group for a foray of the alleyways of the
Knoll and Petts Wood areas covering 51/2
miles. Johno's Joggers
welcomed a new face to their group
and we hope you enjoyed your run.
We all wish John Mackay a speedy recovery
after his accident. There was support for
a replacement handicap night on the 2nd
Tuesday of April (10th) and Sheila Sherman
has volunteered to organise, with the rest
of John's team. This will be confirmed nearer
the time. |
13th March
Clear & mild |
The last of this
winter's 5 & 10k handicap races did not
take place this evening due to the
non- availability of race organiser John
Mackay. Unfortunately John was involved
in a road accident on his way home from
work resulting in him breaking his arm.
We all send our best wishes to John for
a speedy recovery.
Some groups had to be hastily arranged for
the evening. The
long group took in some of Orpington's local
footpaths and roads that they usually
by-pass. It turned into an enjoyable 9 mile,
slightly circuitous, route with some faster
sections towards the end. |
6th March
Cool & dry |
A good sized crowd of runners gathered in
time for reminders about the 'Club Do' on
18 May and the announcement of the various
groups. As usual there was plenty on offer
with Chris Marshall
taking a fast 12 miler out to Elmstead
Woods and Chislehurst.
Mike Bennett's marathon
hopefuls were last seen heading down
Court Road on their steady 10 mile route.
Peter Amos set out
on a 9 mile run taking in St Pauls
Wood Hill. This all looked a bit top heavy
so Chris Thompson
stepped in to lead a 7 miler out
to Knockholt Station for the rest of the
medium pace group. By way of a change John's
group had a new leader in
Amanda Weeks who
had a 5-6 mile route well planned
taking in Hillview , Perry Hall and back
via Court Road and Goddington Lane.
The Johnson's, Chris
to the fore and Graham as backstop,
took a slower group in a similar direction.
If anyone has a favourite route that they
would like to share then the usual leaders
are always happy to step aside or lend support.
Just have a word with Peter A. or John before
the announcement. (J.Mc)
|
|
FEBRUARY
2007 |
27th Feb
Dry & cool after earlier rain |
A good crowd assembled
by 8 o'clock but with some notable
absentees; the various bugs doing the rounds
are taking their toll. Notices reminded
people about the Club's 'Annual Do' on Friday
18 May at the Crofton Halls and the need
to let Linda Kemp have names and deposits
as soon as possible. There was a reminder
about the last Tuesday opportunity to meet
others in the Buff following the run.
That said, the various groups were announced.
Chris(s) Marshall
& Thompson took two levels of Fartlek session
heading off in different directions to avoid
confusion. Mike Bennett again lead a long
marathon preparation run of 10 miles.
Mindful of the need to conserve energy ahead
of Sunday's Barcelona Marathon, Betty Chan
took a more relaxed 4-5 miler which, according
to reports, turned out to be a bit nippier
than expected, so close to a full marathon.
Graham combined with Linda's group
as she was suffering blisters from Sunday's
Tunbridge Wells Half. John took a scenic
tour of Keston & Farnborough Park on a 6
mile round trip. (J.Mc) |
20th Feb
Chilly & dry |
On this busy night
down by 'The Buff' there were about seven
groups setting out in all directions.
John Mackay took a group on a gentle six
mile run which took in All Saints churchyard,
Carlton Parade, Poverest & Petts Wood. Linda
surprised everyone with a 7 mile run out
to Knockholt Station and back via Repton.
The long group led by Chris Marshall started
off towards Keston and then went briskly
on towards Petts Wood without any re-grouping
(the only group that is able to do this!)
and completed their 9.2 mile route with
their traditional sprint finish. If you
are reading this and are contemplating joining
ORR, don't be intimidated by this elite
set, as there are plenty of other less challenging
running groups to join on a Tuesday evening.
|
13th Feb
Torrential rain |
Sixty brave finishers
battled round on one of the wettest handicap
nights anyone can remember and that
is saying something! Once again we had some
new faces trying it out for the first time
- believe me it does get better than this
if you stick with ORR.
Paul King and Graham Maynard were
notable debutants with very impressive
times, Graham actually claiming fastest
10k runner on the night by 1 second from
Simon Collins on adjusted times. It will
be interesting to see how those two go
head to head, hopefully in better
conditions. Commiserations to Eric who
pulled up having twisted his other
ankle, a bit of a drastic way to hide
from the rain. Nick Moran was so keen to
finish that he failed to collect a
number, so he has not been included in
the results.
Thank you for the £18 'entry fees' we collected
in the running shoe for the Club's designated
charity fund.
Many thanks to the usual helpers, Graham,
Linda, Peter and to Elaine and Derek who
chose a really good night to come along.
(J.Mc) |
6th Feb
Crisp, still & starlit |
A very cold evening
didn't deter about eighty runners gathering
outside The Buff ready to take part
in the variety of runs available this Tuesday
evening. Peter Amos explained the distances
and pace selection on offer. Chris Marshall
'long' group were offering a 'non stop'
run to Chislehurst High Street; Michael
Bennett offered a brisk 12 miler, taking
in both Bickley and the Crays; Brian Mead
back from his safari, was leading his familiar
Farnborough/Keston/Petts Wood Scamper.
For something a little
different Tonia was going to lead a hill
climbing set which should keep the
runners warm on this 'vapour' breath evening.
Chairman Mackay offered his usual 'steady
5' and Johno's joggers and Linda's lappers
were also on offer! So hopefully Claire
and the other new runners found a suitable
group this evening and we welcome them all
to Orpington Road Runners. |
|
JANUARY
2007 |
30th Jan
Dry, cool and still |
The last night in
the month saw a good size crowd gather
dangerously on the corner, reluctant as
ever to encroach onto the grass in the "club
room". There were again one or two new faces
and Paula was doing steady business sorting
out memberships and renewals. Six groups
were announced with
Chris Marshall taking
the long group for 12 miles in the
Sidcup direction - much to the relief of
Brian Coates who had run to the Club from
there in the hope that Chris would not change
his mind and head off in the opposite direction.
Mike and Tim took
the "building up for the Marathon" group
off for about 10 miles in a similar
direction but at a rather more sensible
pace. Chris Thompson
volunteered to take the middle group
out to Badgers Mount with a break away up
Wheatsheaf Hill for those not wanting to
do the full distance.
Linda took a group for 5 miles at
about 10 min mile pace and
Graham lead "Jono's
Joggers", the new name for this regular
band they came up with on the hoof.
John offered a 5
mile run that turned out to be nearer
6 at a steady 9 min pace round Green Street
Green to Farnborough Village, where Betty
peeled off those wanting a shorter, quicker
run, before heading through Crofton to the
Station area. A few back alley's and side
turnings kept everyone on their toes and
the group reasonably together.
At the end of the session, various groups
of runners appeared from all directions
before heading for the end of month gathering
in The Buff. (J.Mc) |
23rd Jan
Clear, still and very cold |
This was really the
first 'bobble hats and gloves' evening of
this winter season. About 80 runners
were gathered outside The Buff
on this crisp and clear night; being mindful
of the temperature Secretary Amos kept the
announcements to a minimum and we quickly
split into groups and set of in various
directions. The main
theme of the evening was 'fartlek' which
is Swedish for speed play and is a series
of sets of hard running with frequent breaks
for jogging and recovery. Peter A.
led us on the Club's familiar 'fartlek'
circuit up the hill to Chelsfield then back
down to Green St. Green then the 'lamppost
sprints' up Farnborough Hill followed by
the famous 'ladder run' on the long approach
to Farnborough Village. The last major part
of the session is the recommended three
laps of the 'Ruskin triangle' with its very
sharp incline with spectacular views over
downtown Orpington!
Chris Marshall, John Mackay & Linda Kemp
also provided other pace and distances in
their groups, but tonight's 'warm running'
theme was maintained as they also concentrated
on hills and pace to try and keep the cold
at bay. Welcome to Sam who joined us for
the first time tonight. |
16th Jan
Mild and damp |
After a very wet day the rain mercifully
stopped just in time for about eighty runners
to gather in our new paddock, opposite
The Buff. Secretary Amos couldn't
be with us this week as he was celebrating
his son's 16th birthday in a restaurant
in Orpington, half expecting a group of
yellow shirted runners to appear at the
window!
John Mackay announced the groups tonight
which were led by Chris Marshall, Tim Gould,
Brian Mead, John Mackay and Linda Kemp.
So plenty of distances and pace to choose
from. We welcomed at least two new members
tonight and we tried to make sure they were
in the right group for their maiden run
with Orpington Road Runners!
Chris Marshall's 'top of the range' 12 mile
run run tonight, was his famous David Bowie
heritage run in which a dozen or
so made their way to Bromley Common, Bickley,
Plaistow and Sundridge Park where they paid
homage to 'David', who recently celebrated
his 60th birthday and whose childhood home
is in Plaistow Grove. Having recovered from
that excitement they continued to their
'Surprise Bonus Destination'.
A few roads away they stopped outside a
house with a blue plaque. It is in commemoration
of Prince Peter Kropotkin,
the exiled Russian anarchist who
made his home in Bromley for a number of
years. Their return to 'The Buff'
took them down Bromley High Street and along
the A21, varing the pace all the way back,
including some sprints, arriving at 9.50
having covered 12.2 miles. |
9th Jan
Windy & mild |
Tonight saw the third
of this winter's 10k and 5 mile handicap
series organised by John Mackay:
Another big turnout with
96 recorded finishers
and a couple who slipped away without leaving
names with Linda. It was nice to see lots
of new faces with 14 people who have not
suffered the delights of the Handicap before.
For those totally new to ORR, it is not
always like that, do try on a "normal" night.
Some good performances again especially
from the reticent newer runners who are
clearly better than they let on.
Mark Russell did well in the 10k as did
Francis "Hondaman" McPeake and newer faces
Deniz Mehmed and Sharon McGuinness who are
both guests from other Clubs. A number of
the 5 mile high flyers are clearly ready
to consider stepping up to the full distance
next time.
For some others, Christmas has obviously
been enjoyed too well as times were down
even for the damp and blowy conditions.
Still it sets a benchmark for the next few
months. Thanks once again to the team of
helpers without whom it would all descend
into even more chaos.
Tonight we started
collecting for our Club's designated charity
with a voluntary £1, 10k entry fee contribution.
We haven't yet decided which charity we
will donate to in 2007 - Eric is researching
this for us. On this Tuesday we collected
a magnificent £31
- thank you all very much. |
2nd Jan
Cold & breezy |
A good turnout for
the first Tuesday of 2007 and as
John Mackay observed this was probably due
to New Year Resolutions kicking in! Chris
Marshall led a group around the 9.5 mile
St. Pauls Wood Hill circuit. Alan and Peter
A. led a 7 miler up Court Road to Hewitts
via Spur Road and back down the A21, whilst
John took a large group on a shorter version
via Warren Road which Peter's group caught
up at Church Road.
Betty Chan led a
group around the Handicap 5 mile route
and Graham Johnson looked after his group
that included some new faces. Helen Amos
had offered to lead a slower group on the
5 mile circuit with Betty but in the confusion
got left behind with a group of ladies who
decided Helen looked 'too fast' and went
with Graham leaving Helen trying in vain
to catch up with Betty's group! Let's hope
there's as good a turn out for next week's
handicap!
(Peter A.)
|
